REFRIGERATOR APPLIANCE HAVING A PLURALITY OF EVAPORATORS FOR COOLING SEPARATE CHAMBERS

Abstract

A refrigerator appliance, as provided herein, may include a cabinet defining a fresh food (FF) chamber and a freezer (Fz) chamber, a liner, and a sealed system. The liner may define an icebox (IB) compartment. The sealed system may include a compressor, a condenser, a multi-path valve, a first expansion device, a second expansion device, a FF evaporator, an IB evaporator, and a Fz evaporator. The multi-path valve may be downstream from the condenser to selectively direct refrigerant between a fluid-parallel first restrictor path and second restrictor path. The first expansion device may be mounted in fluid communication along the first restrictor path. The second expansion device may be mounted in fluid communication along the second restrictor path. The FF evaporator may be downstream from the first restrictor path. The IB evaporator may be downstream from the FF evaporator. The Fz evaporator may be downstream from the IB evaporator.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present subject matter relates generally to refrigerator appliances, and more particularly to cooling systems for refrigerator appliances having multiple evaporators for cooling separate chambers.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Certain appliances, such as refrigerator appliances, generally include an icemaker. In order to produce ice, liquid water is directed to the icemaker and frozen. After being frozen, ice may be stored within a storage bin within the appliance. In order to ensure ice is formed or remains in a frozen state, the icemaker and bin may be mounted within a chilled portion of the appliance. For instance, some conventional appliances provide an icemaker and storage bin within a freezer chamber or compartment. Other conventional appliances provide the icemaker and storage bin within a separate icebox compartment (e.g., within a door of the appliance). In order to maintain efficient operation, these conventional appliances generally provide an air circulation system to continuously circulate air within the icebox compartment with air within the freezer chamber.

Certain drawbacks exist with these conventional appliances. For instance, conventional appliances rely on the same evaporator to cool the freezer and the icebox compartment. However, under certain conditions it is possible that the cooling demands of the freezer chamber will differ from the icebox compartment. Additionally or alternatively, because the evaporator has to cool both the freezer chamber and the icebox compartment, the evaporator must generally be larger than would otherwise be necessary (e.g., if the evaporator only had to cool the freezer chamber). In turn, this requires sacrificing certain size and shape options for the freezer chamber in order to accommodate the evaporator.

Although certain existing systems have multiple separate evaporators, such as one evaporator to cool the freezer chamber and another evaporator to cool the fresh compartment, the evaporator for the freezer chamber is typically the only evaporator that is sufficient to cool an icebox compartment. Moreover, in some conventional refrigerator appliances, an icebox is disposed inside (or in the vicinity of fresh food compartment) and requires relatively long and complex ductwork from a freezer compartment to supply cold air.

As a result, it would be useful to have a refrigerator appliance addressing one or more of the above identified issues. For instance, it would be advantageous to provide a refrigerator appliance capable of adequately cooling a separate icebox compartment without relying on the same evaporator that cools a freezer chamber.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

In one exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a refrigerator appliance is provided. The refrigerator appliance may include a cabinet defining a fresh food (FF) chamber and a freezer (Fz) chamber, a liner, and a sealed system. The liner may be attached to the cabinet. The liner may define an icebox (IB) compartment. The sealed system may be mounted to the cabinet to selectively cool the FF chamber, the Fz chamber, and the IB compartment. The sealed system may include a compressor, a condenser, a multi-path valve, a first expansion device, a second expansion device, a FF evaporator, an IB evaporator, and a Fz evaporator. The condenser may be downstream from the compressor to receive refrigerant therefrom. The multi-path valve may be downstream from the condenser to selectively direct refrigerant between a fluid-parallel first restrictor path and second restrictor path. The first expansion device may be mounted in fluid communication along the first restrictor path. The second expansion device may be mounted in fluid communication along the second restrictor path. The FF evaporator may be downstream from the first restrictor path. The IB evaporator may be downstream from the FF evaporator. The Fz evaporator may be downstream from the IB evaporator and the second restrictor path.

In another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a refrigerator appliance is provided. The refrigerator appliance may include a cabinet defining a fresh food (FF) chamber and a freezer (Fz) chamber, a liner, and a sealed system. The liner may be attached to the cabinet. The liner may define an icebox (IB) compartment. The sealed system may be mounted to the cabinet to selectively cool the FF chamber, the Fz chamber, and the IB compartment. The sealed system may include a compressor, a condenser, a multi-path valve, a first expansion device, a second expansion device, a FF evaporator, an IB evaporator, and a Fz evaporator. The condenser may be downstream from the compressor to receive refrigerant therefrom. The multi-path valve may be downstream from the condenser to selectively direct refrigerant between a fluid-parallel first restrictor path and second restrictor path. The first expansion device may be mounted in fluid communication along the first restrictor path. The second expansion device may be mounted in fluid communication along the second restrictor path. The FF evaporator may be downstream from the first restrictor path. The IB evaporator may be downstream from the FF evaporator and the second restrictor path. The Fz evaporator may be downstream from the IB evaporator.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.

FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a refrigerator appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 provides a perspective view of the exemplary refrigerator appliance shown in FIG. 1, wherein a refrigerator door is in an open position.

FIG. 3 provides a schematic view of various components of the exemplary refrigerator appliance shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 provides a schematic plan view of a refrigerator appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 provides a schematic view of a sealed cooling system of a refrigerator appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 provides a schematic view of a sealed cooling system of a refrigerator appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 provides a schematic view of a sealed cooling system of a refrigerator appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 provides a schematic view of a sealed cooling system of a refrigerator appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

As used herein, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). The terms “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The terms “upstream” and “downstream” refer to the relative flow direction with respect to fluid flow (e.g., airflow or refrigerant flow) in a fluid pathway. For example, “upstream” refers to the flow direction from which the fluid flows, and “downstream” refers to the flow direction to which the fluid flows.

Turning now to the figures, FIG. 1 provide perspective views of a refrigerator appliance (e.g., refrigerator appliance 100) according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Generally, refrigerator appliance 100 includes a cabinet or housing 120 that extends between a top portion 101 and a bottom portion 102 along a vertical direction V. Generally, refrigerator appliance 100 defines multiple chilled chambers, such as for the receipt of food items for storage. For instance, one or more internal liners 112 are attached (e.g., fixedly attached) within housing 120 to define one or more discrete chilled chambers. In some embodiments, a liner 112 defines fresh food chamber 122 positioned at or adjacent top portion 101 of housing 120, while a liner 112 (e.g., separate or continuous with liner 112) defines a freezer chamber 124 arranged at or adjacent bottom portion 102 of housing 120. As such, refrigerator appliance 100 is generally referred to as a bottom mount refrigerator.

Refrigerator doors 128 are rotatably hinged to an edge of housing 120 for selectively accessing fresh food chamber 122. In addition, a freezer door 130 is arranged below refrigerator doors 128 for selectively accessing freezer chamber 124. Freezer door 130 is coupled to a freezer drawer (not shown) slidably mounted within freezer chamber 124. Refrigerator doors 128 and freezer door 130 are shown in a closed configuration in FIG. 1.

In some embodiments, various storage components are mounted within fresh food chamber 122 to facilitate storage of food items therein, as will be understood art. In particular, the storage components include storage bins 182, drawers 184, and shelves 186 that are mounted within fresh food chamber 122. Storage bins 182, drawers 184, and shelves 186 are configured for receipt of food items (e.g., beverages or solid food items) and may assist with organizing such food items. As an example, drawers 184 can receive fresh food items (e.g., vegetables, fruits, or cheeses) and increase the useful life of such fresh food items.

In some embodiments, refrigerator appliance 100 also includes a dispensing assembly 140 for dispensing liquid water or ice. Dispensing assembly 140 includes a dispenser 142, for example, positioned on or mounted to an exterior portion of refrigerator appliance 100 (e.g., on one of doors 128). Dispenser 142 includes a discharging outlet 144 for accessing ice and liquid water. An actuating mechanism 146, shown as a paddle, is mounted below discharging outlet 144 for operating dispenser 142. In alternative exemplary embodiments, any suitable actuating mechanism may be used to operate dispenser 142. For example, dispenser 142 can include a sensor (such as an ultrasonic sensor) or a button rather than the paddle. A user interface panel 148 is provided for controlling the mode of operation. For example, user interface panel 148 includes a plurality of user inputs (not labeled), such as a water dispensing button and an ice-dispensing button, for selecting a desired mode of operation such as crushed or non-crushed ice.

Discharging outlet 144 and actuating mechanism 146 are an external part of dispenser 142 and are mounted in a dispenser recess 150. Dispenser recess 150 is positioned at a predetermined elevation convenient for a user to access ice or water and enabling the user to access ice without the need to bend-over and without the need to open doors 128. In the exemplary embodiment, dispenser recess 150 is positioned at a level that approximates the chest level of a user.

In exemplary embodiments, a secondary liner 114 is attached to cabinet 120 (e.g., by being mounted or fixed to door 128) and defines another chamber (e.g., icebox compartment 162) for the receipt or storage of one or more chilled items. For instance, in some embodiments, at least one door 128 includes secondary liner 114 positioned thereon. In turn, icebox compartment 162 may be defined within one of doors 128. In some such embodiments, icebox compartment 162 extends into fresh food chamber 122 when refrigerator door 128 is in the closed position. Although an icebox compartment 162 is shown, additional or alterative embodiments may include a sub-compartment defined at another portion of refrigerator appliance 100 (e.g., at or within fresh food chamber 122).

In some such embodiments, an icemaker or ice making assembly 160 and an ice storage bin 164 are positioned or disposed within icebox compartment 162. For instance, ice making assembly 160 may be positioned, at least in part, above ice storage bin 164. During use, ice is supplied to dispenser recess 150 (FIG. 1) from the ice making assembly 160 or ice storage bin 164 in icebox compartment 162 on a back side of refrigerator door 128.

In optional embodiments, an access door 166 is hinged to refrigerator door 128. Access door 166 may permit selective access to icebox compartment 162. Any manner of suitable latch 168 is configured with icebox compartment 162 to maintain access door 166 in a closed position. As an example, latch 168 may be actuated by a user in order to open access door 166 for providing access into icebox compartment 162. Access door 166 can also assist with insulating icebox compartment 162 (e.g., by thermally isolating or insulating icebox compartment 162 from fresh food chamber 122).

In additional or alternative embodiments, liquid water generated during melting of ice cubes in ice storage bin 164, is directed out of ice storage bin 164. For example, turning back to FIG. 1, liquid water from melted ice cubes is directed to an evaporation pan 172. Evaporation pan 172 is positioned within a mechanical compartment 170 defined by housing 120 (e.g., at bottom portion 102 of housing 120). A condenser 174 of the sealed system can be positioned above (e.g., directly above) and adjacent to evaporation pan 172. Heat from condenser 174 can assist with evaporation of liquid water in evaporation pan 172. An evaporation fan 176 configured for cooling condenser 174 can also direct a flow air across or into evaporation pan 172. Thus, evaporation fan 176 can be positioned above and adjacent evaporation pan 172. Evaporation pan 172 is sized and shaped for facilitating evaporation of liquid water therein. For example, evaporation pan 172 may be open topped and extend across about a width or a depth of housing 120.

In some embodiments, chilled air from a sealed system 200 (FIG. 3) of refrigerator appliance 100 may be directed into components within icebox compartment 162 (e.g., ice making assembly 160 or storage bin 164 assembly). For instance, icebox compartment 162 may receive cooling air from a chilled air supply duct 165 and a chilled air return duct 167 disposed on a side portion of cabinet 120 of refrigerator appliance 100, as will be further described below. In this manner, the supply duct 165 and return duct 167 may recirculate chilled air from a suitable sealed cooling system 200 through icebox compartment 162. One or more air handlers or fans 194 (FIG. 4), such as a fan or blower, may be provided to motivate and recirculate air. As an example, at least one air handler 194 can direct chilled air from an evaporator 178 (e.g., that is mounted within an evaporator chamber 220 adjacent to or within fresh food chamber 122) of a sealed system 200 through a duct to icebox compartment 162.

FIG. 3 provides a schematic view of certain components of refrigerator appliance 100. As may be seen in FIG. 3, refrigerator appliance 100 generally includes a sealed cooling system 200 for executing a vapor compression cycle for cooling air within refrigerator appliance 100 (e.g., within fresh food chamber 122, freezer chamber 124, and icebox compartment 162). Sealed cooling system 200 includes a compressor 180, a condenser 174, one or more expansion devices 181, and one or more evaporators 178 connected in fluid series and charged with a refrigerant. As is understood, sealed cooling system 200 may include further additional components (e.g., at least one additional evaporator, compressor 180, expansion device, or condenser 174).

Within sealed cooling system 200, gaseous refrigerant flows into compressor 180, which operates to increase the pressure of the refrigerant. This compression of the refrigerant raises its temperature, which is lowered by passing the gaseous refrigerant through condenser 174. Within condenser 174, heat exchange with ambient air takes place so as to cool the refrigerant and cause the refrigerant to condense to a liquid state.

The expansion devices 181 (e.g., a valve, capillary tube, or other restriction device) receive liquid refrigerant from condenser 174. From expansion device 181, the liquid refrigerant enters one or more of the evaporators 178. Upon exiting an expansion device 181 and entering an evaporator 178, the liquid refrigerant drops in pressure and vaporizes. Due to the pressure drop and phase change of the refrigerant, an evaporator 178 is cool relative to the chambers (e.g., fresh food chamber 122, freezer chamber 124, or icebox compartment 162) of refrigerator appliance 100. As such, cooled air is produced and refrigerates the chambers of refrigerator appliance 100. Thus, each evaporator 178 is a heat exchanger which transfers heat from air passing over or across the evaporator 178 to refrigerant flowing through the evaporator 178.

As will be further described below, refrigerator appliance 100 also includes one or more fans or air handlers 194 (e.g., a first fan 194A, a second fan 194B, and a third fan 194C—FIG. 4). Generally, first fan 194A is operable to urge a flow of chilled air from a first evaporator (e.g., FF evaporator 178A—FIG. 4) to the fresh food chamber 122. Second fan 194B is operable to urge another flow of chilled air from a second evaporator (e.g., IB evaporator 178B—FIG. 4) to the icebox compartment 162. Third fan 194C is operable to urge yet another flow of chilled air from a third evaporator (e.g., Fz evaporator 178C—FIG. 4) to the freezer chamber 124. The air handlers 194 can be any suitable device for moving air. For example, air handlers 194 can each be an axial fan or a centrifugal fan.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1 through 3, operation of the refrigerator appliance 100 can be regulated by a controller 190 that is operatively coupled to user interface panel 148 or various other components, as will be described below. User interface panel 148 provides selections for user manipulation of the operation of refrigerator appliance 100 such as, for example, selections between whole or crushed ice, chilled water, or other various options. In response to user manipulation of user interface panel 148 or one or more sensor signals, controller 190 may operate various components of the refrigerator appliance 100. Controller 190 may include a memory and one or more microprocessors, CPUs or the like, such as general or special purpose microprocessors operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with operation of refrigerator appliance 100. The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor. Alternatively, controller 190 may be constructed without using a microprocessor (e.g., using a combination of discrete analog or digital logic circuitry; such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software.

Controller 190 may be positioned in a variety of locations throughout refrigerator appliance 100. In the illustrated embodiment, controller 190 is located within the user interface panel 148. In other embodiments, the controller 190 may be positioned at any suitable location within refrigerator appliance 100, such as for example within a fresh food chamber, a freezer door, etc. Input/output (“I/O”) signals may be routed between controller 190 and various operational components of refrigerator appliance 100. For example, user interface panel 148 may be in operable communication (e.g., electrical communication or wireless communication) with controller 190 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses.

As illustrated, controller 190 may be in communication with the various components of dispensing assembly 140 and may control operation of the various components. For example, the various valves, switches, etc. may be actuatable based on commands from the controller 190. As discussed, interface panel 148 may additionally be in communication with the controller 190. Thus, the various operations may occur based on user input or automatically through controller 190 instruction.

In optional embodiments, controller 190 is further operatively coupled with one or more temperature sensors 192. Temperature sensors 192 can be any suitable device for measuring the temperature of an atmosphere or ambient air within refrigerator appliance 100 (e.g., within icebox compartment 162, freezer chamber 124, fresh food chamber 122, etc.). For example, a temperature sensor 192 may include a thermistor or a thermocouple (e.g., mounted within icebox compartment 162, freezer chamber 124, fresh food chamber 122, etc.). Controller 190 can receive a signal, such as a voltage or a current, from a temperature sensor 192 that corresponds to the temperature of the air within a corresponding chamber. In such a manner, the temperature of one or more chilled chambers can be monitored or recorded with controller 190. Optionally, one or more of the air handlers 194 may be activated based a received temperature signal (e.g., indicating temperature within a corresponding temperature has reached or exceeded a set chamber temperature).

Turning now to FIGS. 4 through 8, various views are provided illustrating exemplary embodiments of a sealed system 200 for refrigerator appliance 100. In certain embodiments, sealed system 200 includes multiple evaporators, such as a fresh food (FF) evaporator 178A, an icebox (IB) evaporator 178B, or a freezer (Fz) evaporator 178C. Advantageously, the embodiments of the present disclosure may sufficiently cool each portion (e.g., icebox compartment 162, freezer chamber 124, or fresh food chamber 122) of refrigerator appliance 100, without requiring the Fz evaporator 178C to cool multiple chambers or compartments. Additionally or alternatively, the embodiments of the present disclosure may advantageously permit greater control and efficiency for the various portions (e.g., icebox compartment 162, freezer chamber 124, or fresh food chamber 122) of refrigerator appliance 100 than would otherwise be possible with existing configurations. Further additionally or alternatively, the embodiments of the present disclosure may advantageously facilitate shorter cooling ducts, minimize volume usage, and reduce insulation requirements.

As shown, especially in FIG. 4, the evaporators 178A, 178B,178C may be mounted at or within different portions of cabinet. In some embodiments, FF evaporator 178A is mounted at or within the fresh food chamber 122, while the Fz evaporator 178C is mounted at or within the freezer chamber 124. In additional or alternative embodiments, IB evaporator 178B is spaced apart from the freezer chamber 124 and Fz evaporator 178C. For instance, IB evaporator 178B may be mounted at or within fresh food chamber 122. In certain embodiments, FF evaporator 178A and IB evaporator 178B are mounted within a partially-enclosed sub-chamber 202 defined on or within fresh food chamber 122. As one example, FF evaporator 178A and IB evaporator 178B may be directly joined together as a set of adjacent coils within sub-chamber 202. As an alternative example, FF evaporator 178A and IB evaporator 178B are physically separated (e.g., spaced apart from each other) while being fluidly connected by a single intermediate conduit within sub-chamber 202.

Continuing with FIG. 4, one or more fans or air handlers are mounted at or within refrigerator appliance 100. As an example, a first fan 194A may be mounted at or within fresh food chamber 122 (e.g., adjacent to the FF evaporator 178A or within sub-chamber 202). When assembled, the first fan 194A may be directed at the FF evaporator 178A to motivate an airflow (e.g., first airflow) across the FF evaporator 178A to the fresh food chamber 122. As an additional or alternative example, a second fan 194B may be mounted at or within fresh food chamber 122 (e.g., adjacent to the IB evaporator 178B or within sub-chamber 202). When assembled, the second fan 194B may be directed at the IB evaporator 178B to motivate a second airflow across the IB evaporator 178B to the icebox compartment 162 (e.g., via supply duct 165). As another additional or alternative example, a third fan 194C may be mounted at or within freezer chamber 124 (e.g., adjacent to the Fz evaporator 178C). When assembled, the third fan 194C may be directed at the Fz evaporator 178C to motivate an airflow (e.g., third airflow) across the Fz evaporator 178C to the freezer chamber 124.

In optional embodiments, each of the fans 194A, 194B, 194C is independently operable and, thus, may be activated to motivate a discrete airflow independent of whether another fan 194A or 194B or 194C is operating. For instance, the fans 194A, 194B, 194C may be separately activated according to the cooling demands of their respective corresponding chambers 122, 162, 124. In additional or alternative embodiments, operation of the fans 194A, 194B, 194C may be sequenced (e.g., such that no fan 194A or 194B or 194C operates simultaneously with one or more of the other fans 194A or 194B or 194C).

Turning generally to FIGS. 5 through 8, sealed system 200 includes a compressor 180 and condenser 174, as described above. Downstream from condenser 174 (e.g., upstream from one or more evaporators 178A, 178B,178C), sealed system 200 may include at least two discrete refrigerant paths 212, 214. Specifically, a fluid-parallel first restrictor path 212 and second restrictor path 214 are defined. In other words, a first restrictor path 212 and a second restrictor path 214 are defined within a fluid circuit such that fluid within one restrictor path does not flow downstream to the other restrictor path (and vice versa). Nonetheless, as a sealed circuit, fluid from both restrictor paths 212, 214 may eventually pass through a separate region or path of the sealed system 200. Upstream from the restrictor paths 212, 214 and downstream from the condenser 174 (i.e., in fluid communication between the paths 212, 214 and the condenser 174), a multi-path valve 210 is provided to selectively direct refrigerant between the restrictor paths 212, 214 (e.g., selectively or alternately to the first restrictor path 212 or the second restrictor path 214). Thus, in one arrangement (e.g., determined by a selection at controller 190—FIG. 3), multi-path valve 210 directs refrigerant to the first restrictor path 212, while in another arrangement (e.g., also determined by a selection at controller 190), multi-path valve 210 direct refrigerant to the second restrictor path 214).

Along each restrictor path (e.g., 212, 214), a separate expansion device (e.g., 181A, 181B) is provided. For instance, a first expansion device 181A may be mounted in fluid communication along the first restrictor path 212. Thus, refrigerant flowing through first restrictor path 212 is forced through the first expansion device 181A. A second expansion device 181B may be mounted in fluid communication along the second restrictor path 214. Thus, refrigerant flowing through the second restrictor path 214 is forced through the second expansion device 181B.

Generally, the second expansion device 181B is more restrictive than the first expansion device 181A. For instance, as noted above, an expansion device (e.g., one or both of first and second expansion devices 181A,181B) may include or be provided as a capillary tube. In certain embodiments, the first expansion device 181A is a first capillary tube and the second expansion device 181B is a second capillary tube. As is understood, each of the capillary tubes may define a restriction size (i.e., inner diameter and capillary length) controlling or determining the flow of refrigerant through the corresponding capillary tube. A smaller inner diameter or longer capillary length of a capillary tube results in a smaller restriction size and larger pressure drop of refrigerant through the capillary tube. In some embodiments, the restriction size of the second capillary tube is smaller than the restriction size of the first capillary tube. Thus, the second capillary tube may be more restrictive than the first capillary tube. Moreover, the pressure drop of refrigerant supplied from the second capillary tube may be greater than the pressure drop of refrigerant supply from the first capillary tube.

Turning especially to FIG. 5, in some embodiments, the FF evaporator 178A is positioned along the sealed system 200 downstream from the first restrictor path 212. Refrigerant from the first expansion device 181A may thus be directed to and through FF evaporator 178A. As shown, the IB evaporator 178B is downstream from the FF evaporator 178A as well as the first restrictor path 212, which may supply refrigerant to the IB evaporator 178B through the FF evaporator 178A. The Fz evaporator 178C is downstream from the IB evaporator 178B. Refrigerant from the FF evaporator 178A may thus flow through the IB evaporator 178B before flowing to the Fz evaporator 178C.

Along with being downstream from the first restrictor path 212, the IB evaporator 178B may be downstream from the second restrictor path 214. In the embodiments of FIG. 5, a connection point 224 of the second restrictor path 214 to the IB evaporator 178B is provided upstream from the IB evaporator 178B and downstream from the FF evaporator 178A. Refrigerant through the second restrictor path 214 may thus bypass the FF evaporator 178A and flow from the condenser 174, through the second expansion device 181B, and directly to the IB evaporator 178B. Moreover, refrigerant from the second restrictor path 214 may flow through the IB evaporator 178B before flowing to the Fz evaporator 178C.

The multi-path valve 210 may be provided as a three-way valve configured to selectively and alternatively direct refrigerant to one of the restrictor paths 212, 214. Depending on the cooling needs (e.g., within chambers 122, 124, 162—FIG. 4), multi-path valve 210 may be actuated to direct refrigerant from the condenser 174 and through either the first restrictor path 212 or the second restrictor path 214. Moreover, one or more of the fans 194A, 194B, 194C may be activated or operated to motivate an airflow across a corresponding evaporator 178A or 178B or 178C.

Turning especially to FIG. 6, in exemplary embodiments, the FF evaporator 178A is positioned along the sealed system 200 downstream from the first restrictor path 212. Refrigerant from the first expansion device 181A may thus be directed to and through FF evaporator 178A. As shown, the IB evaporator 178B is downstream from the FF evaporator 178A as well as the first restrictor path 212, which may supply refrigerant to the IB evaporator 178B through the FF evaporator 178A. The Fz evaporator 178C is downstream from the IB evaporator 178B. Refrigerant from the FF evaporator 178A may thus flow through the IB evaporator 178B before flowing to the Fz evaporator 178C.

Along with being downstream from the first restrictor path 212, the FF evaporator 178A may be downstream from the second restrictor path 214. In the embodiments of FIG. 6, a connection point 225 of the second restrictor path 214 to the FF evaporator 178A is provided upstream from the FF evaporator 178A. Refrigerant through the second restrictor path 214 may thus flow from the condenser 174, through the second expansion device 181B, and directly to the FF evaporator 178A. From the FF evaporator 178A, refrigerant may flow through the IB evaporator 178B before flowing to the Fz evaporator 178C.

The multi-path valve 210 may be provided as a three-way valve configured to selectively and alternatively direct refrigerant to one of the restrictor paths 212, 214. Depending on the cooling needs (e.g., within chambers 122, 124, 162 FIG. 4), multi-path valve 210 may be actuated to direct refrigerant from the condenser 174 and through either the first restrictor path 212 or second restrictor path 214. Moreover, one or more of the fans 194A, 194B, 194C may be activated or operated to motivate an airflow across a corresponding evaporator 178A or 178B or 178C.

Turning especially to FIG. 7, in certain embodiments, the FF evaporator 178A is positioned along the sealed system 200 downstream from the first restrictor path 212. Refrigerant from the first expansion device 181A may thus be directed to and through FF evaporator 178A. As shown, the IB evaporator 178B is downstream from the FF evaporator 178A as well as the first restrictor path 212, which may supply refrigerant to the IB evaporator 178B through the FF evaporator 178A. The Fz evaporator 178C is downstream from the IB evaporator 178B. Refrigerant from the FF evaporator 178A may thus flow through the IB evaporator 178B before flowing to the Fz evaporator 178C.

Along with being downstream from the first restrictor path 212, the IB evaporator 178B may be downstream from the second restrictor path 214. In the embodiments of FIG. 7, a connection point 224 of the second restrictor path 214 to the IB evaporator 178B is provided upstream from the IB evaporator 178B and downstream from the FF evaporator 178A. Refrigerant through the second restrictor path 214 may thus bypass the FF evaporator 178A and flow from the condenser 174, through the second expansion device 181B, and directly to the IB evaporator 178B. Moreover, refrigerant from the second restrictor path 214 may flow through the IB evaporator 178B before flowing to the Fz evaporator 178C.

As shown in FIG. 7, optional embodiments further include a third restrictor path 216 that is parallel (i.e., in fluid-parallel) to both the first and second restrictor paths 212, 214 (e.g., downstream from the multi-path valve 210). A third expansion device 181C may be mounted in fluid communication along the third restrictor path 216. Thus, refrigerant flowing through the third restrictor path 216 is forced through the third expansion device 181C. Optionally, the third expansion device 181C is more restrictive than the first and second expansion devices 181A,181B. For instance, the third expansion device 181C may be a third capillary tube having a restriction size that is smaller than the restriction size of the first capillary tube or the second capillary tube.

Along with being downstream from the second restrictor path 214, the Fz evaporator 178C may be downstream from the third restrictor path 216. In the exemplary embodiments of FIG. 7, a connection point 226 of the third restrictor path 216 to the Fz evaporator 178C is provided upstream from the Fz evaporator 178C and downstream from the IB evaporator 178B. Refrigerant through the third restrictor path 216 may thus bypass the IB evaporator 178B (and FF evaporator 178A) and flow from the condenser 174, through the third expansion device 181C, and directly to the Fz evaporator 178C.

The multi-path valve 210 may be provided as a four-way valve configured to selectively and alternatively direct refrigerant to one of the restrictor paths 212, 214, 216. Depending on the cooling needs (e.g., within chambers 122, 162, 124—FIG. 4), multi-path valve 210 may be actuated to direct refrigerant from the condenser 174 and through either the first restrictor path 212, second restrictor path 214, or third restrictor path 216. Moreover, one or more of the fans 194A, 194B, 194C may be activated or operated to motivate an airflow across a corresponding evaporator 178A or 178B or 178C.

Turning especially to FIG. 8, in some embodiments, the FF evaporator 178A is positioned along the sealed system 200 downstream from the first restrictor path 212. Refrigerant from the first expansion device 181A may thus be directed to and through FF evaporator 178A. As shown, the IB evaporator 178B is downstream from the FF evaporator 178A as well as the first restrictor path 212, which may supply refrigerant to the IB evaporator 178B through the FF evaporator 178A. The Fz evaporator 178C is downstream from the IB evaporator 178B. Refrigerant from the FF evaporator 178A may thus flow through the IB evaporator 178B before flowing to the Fz evaporator 178C.

Along with being downstream from the first restrictor path 212, the FF evaporator 178A may be downstream from the second restrictor path 214. In the embodiments of FIG. 8, a connection point 225 of the second restrictor path 214 to the FF evaporator 178A is provided upstream from the FF evaporator 178A. Refrigerant through the second restrictor path 214 may thus flow from the condenser 174, through the second expansion device 181B, and directly to the FF evaporator 178A. From the FF evaporator 178A, refrigerant may flow through the IB evaporator 178B before flowing to the Fz evaporator 178C.

As shown in FIG. 8, optional embodiments further include a third restrictor path 216 that is parallel (i.e., in fluid-parallel) to both the first and second restrictor paths 212, 214 (e.g., downstream from the multi-path valve 210). A third expansion device 181C may be mounted in fluid communication along the third restrictor path 216. Thus, refrigerant flowing through the third restrictor path 216 is forced through the third expansion device 181C. Optionally, the third expansion device 181C is more restrictive than the first and second expansion devices 181A,181B. For instance, the third expansion device 181C may be a third capillary tube having a restriction size that is smaller than the restriction size of the first capillary tube or the second capillary tube.

Along with being downstream from the second restrictor path 214, the Fz evaporator 178C may be downstream from the third restrictor path 216. In the exemplary embodiments of FIG. 8, a connection point 226 of the third restrictor path 216 to the Fz evaporator 178C is provided upstream from the Fz evaporator 178C and downstream from the IB evaporator 178B. Refrigerant through the third restrictor path 216 may thus bypass the IB evaporator 178B (and FF evaporator 178A) and flow from the condenser 174, through the third expansion device 181C, and directly to the Fz evaporator 178C.

The multi-path valve 210 may be provided as a four-way valve configured to selectively and alternatively direct refrigerant to one of the restrictor paths 212, 214, 216. Depending on the cooling needs (e.g., within chambers 122, 124, 162 FIG. 4), multi-path valve 210 may be actuated to direct refrigerant from the condenser 174 and through either the first restrictor path 212, second restrictor path 214, or third restrictor path 216. Moreover, one or more of the fans 194A, 194B, 194C may be activated or operated to motivate an airflow across a corresponding evaporator 178A or 178B or 178C.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Claims

1. A refrigerator appliance comprising:

a cabinet defining a fresh food (FF) chamber and a freezer (Fz) chamber;

a liner attached to the cabinet, the liner defining an icebox (IB) compartment; and

a sealed system mounted to the cabinet to selectively cool the FF chamber, the Fz chamber, and the IB compartment, the sealed system comprising a compressor, a condenser downstream from the compressor to receive refrigerant therefrom, a multi-path valve downstream from the condenser to selectively direct refrigerant between a fluid-parallel first restrictor path and second restrictor path, a first expansion device mounted in fluid communication along the first restrictor path, a second expansion device mounted in fluid communication along the second restrictor path, a FF evaporator downstream from the first restrictor path, an IB evaporator downstream from the FF evaporator, and a Fz evaporator downstream from the IB evaporator and the second restrictor path.

2. The refrigerator appliance of claim 1, wherein the first expansion device is a first capillary tube defining a restriction size to control refrigerant flow therethrough, and wherein the second expansion device is a second capillary tube defining a restriction size smaller than the restriction size of the first capillary tube.

3. The refrigerator appliance of claim 1, wherein the IB evaporator is downstream from the second restrictor path at a connection point downstream from the FF evaporator.

4. The refrigerator appliance of claim 1, wherein the FF evaporator is downstream from the second restrictor path.

5. The refrigerator appliance of claim 1, further comprising a third expansion device along a third restrictor path in fluid-parallel to the first and second restrictor paths.

6. The refrigerator appliance of claim 5, wherein the Fz evaporator is downstream from the third restrictor path at a connection point downstream from the IB evaporator.

7. The refrigerator appliance of claim 5, wherein the FF evaporator is downstream from the second restrictor path.

8. The refrigerator appliance of claim 5, wherein the IB evaporator is downstream from the second restrictor path at a connection point downstream from the FF evaporator.

9. The refrigerator appliance of claim 1, further comprising:

a first fan directed at the FF evaporator to motivate a first airflow across the FF evaporator to the FF chamber; and

a second fan directed at the IB evaporator to motivate a second airflow across the IB evaporator to the IB compartment.

10. The refrigerator appliance of claim 9, further comprising:

a third fan directed at the Fz evaporator to motivate a third airflow across the Fz evaporator to the Fz chamber.

11. A refrigerator appliance comprising:

a cabinet defining a fresh food (FF) chamber and a freezer (Fz) chamber;

a liner attached to the cabinet, the liner defining an icebox (IB) compartment; and

a sealed system mounted to the cabinet to selectively cool the FF chamber, the Fz chamber, and the IB compartment, the sealed system comprising a compressor, a condenser downstream from the compressor to receive refrigerant therefrom, a multi-path valve downstream from the condenser to selectively direct refrigerant between a fluid-parallel first restrictor path and second restrictor path, a first expansion device mounted in fluid communication along the first restrictor path, a second expansion device mounted in fluid communication along the second restrictor path, an IB evaporator downstream from the first restrictor path and the second restrictor path, and a Fz evaporator downstream from the IB evaporator.

12. The refrigerator appliance of claim 11, wherein the first expansion device is a first capillary tube defining a restriction size to control refrigerant flow therethrough, and wherein the second expansion device is a second capillary tube defining a restriction size smaller than the restriction size of the first capillary tube.

13. The refrigerator appliance of claim 11, wherein the sealed system further comprises a FF evaporator downstream from the first restrictor path, wherein the IB evaporator is downstream from the second restrictor path at a connection point downstream from the FF evaporator.

14. The refrigerator appliance of claim 11, wherein the sealed system further comprises a FF evaporator downstream from the first restrictor path and the second restrictor path.

15. The refrigerator appliance of claim 11, further comprising a third expansion device along a third restrictor path in fluid-parallel to the first and second restrictor paths.

16. The refrigerator appliance of claim 15, wherein the Fz evaporator is downstream from the third restrictor path at a connection point downstream from the IB evaporator.

17. The refrigerator appliance of claim 15, wherein the sealed system further comprises a FF evaporator downstream from the first restrictor path and the second restrictor path.

18. The refrigerator appliance of claim 15, wherein the sealed system further comprises a FF evaporator downstream from the first restrictor path, and wherein the IB evaporator is downstream from the second restrictor path at a connection point downstream from the FF evaporator.

19. The refrigerator appliance of claim 18, wherein the sealed system further comprises a FF evaporator downstream from the first restrictor path, and wherein the refrigerator appliance further comprises:

a first fan directed at the FF evaporator to motivate a first airflow across the FF evaporator to the FF chamber; and

a second fan directed at the IB evaporator to motivate a second airflow across the IB evaporator to the IB compartment.

20. The refrigerator appliance of claim 19, further comprising:

a third fan directed at the Fz evaporator to motivate a third airflow across the Fz evaporator to the Fz chamber.