Abstract: A refrigerator for storing products includes a sensor container configured to position at least one temperature sensor within a refrigerated interior in a cabinet of the refrigerator. The sensor container includes a main body portion enclosing a hollow interior space configured to receive a ballast liquid, and a plurality of dry wells which each extend generally horizontally between a closed end within the hollow interior space and an open end. The temperature sensors positioned in the dry wells are surrounded by ballast liquid but are not in direct contact with refrigerated air within the cabinet or the ballast liquid. The temperature measurements therefore approximate the thermal response of products (such as blood) stored in the cabinet without necessitating submersible sensors or a risk of liquid leaks. The temperature measurements may be sent to elements such as a chart recorder, and a display and alarm device associated with the refrigerator.

Abstract: A refrigerator for storing products includes a sensor container configured to position at least one temperature sensor within a refrigerated interior in a cabinet of the refrigerator. The sensor container includes a main body portion enclosing a hollow interior space configured to receive a ballast liquid, and a plurality of dry wells which each extend generally horizontally between a closed end within the hollow interior space and an open end. The temperature sensors positioned in the dry wells are surrounded by ballast liquid but are not in direct contact with refrigerated air within the cabinet or the ballast liquid. The temperature measurements therefore approximate the thermal response of products (such as blood) stored in the cabinet without necessitating submersible sensors or a risk of liquid leaks. The temperature measurements may be sent to elements such as a chart recorder, and a display and alarm device associated with the refrigerator.

Abstract: A high performance refrigerator or freezer includes a cabinet with a refrigerated interior, a first evaporator cover separating a first evaporator compartment within the cabinet from the refrigerated interior, and a refrigeration fluid circuit having a first evaporator located within the first evaporator compartment, a second evaporator, and a three-way valve enabling selective communication of refrigerant to one or both of the evaporators. The second evaporator includes an air diffuser that receives chilled air from the first evaporator compartment and delivers the chilled air into the refrigerated interior. During normal operation, the three-way valve only directs refrigerant into the first evaporator such that the first evaporator cools the cabinet and the chilled air from the first evaporator passively defrosts the second evaporator by sublimation.