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WO2024194791A1 - Evaporation tray for condensation water - Google Patents

Evaporation tray for condensation water Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2024194791A1
WO2024194791A1 PCT/IB2024/052630 IB2024052630W WO2024194791A1 WO 2024194791 A1 WO2024194791 A1 WO 2024194791A1 IB 2024052630 W IB2024052630 W IB 2024052630W WO 2024194791 A1 WO2024194791 A1 WO 2024194791A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
ptc
ptc cartridge
tray
cartridge
electric power
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2024/052630
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Mauro BERIOLI
Gianluca CESTARO
Antonio DE MOLINER
Federico ZOPPAS
Original Assignee
I.R.C.A. S.P.A. Industria Resistenze Corazzate E Affini
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by I.R.C.A. S.P.A. Industria Resistenze Corazzate E Affini filed Critical I.R.C.A. S.P.A. Industria Resistenze Corazzate E Affini
Publication of WO2024194791A1 publication Critical patent/WO2024194791A1/en

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D21/00—Defrosting; Preventing frosting; Removing condensed or defrost water
    • F25D21/14—Collecting or removing condensed and defrost water; Drip trays
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D2321/00—Details or arrangements for defrosting; Preventing frosting; Removing condensed or defrost water, not provided for in other groups of this subclass
    • F25D2321/14—Collecting condense or defrost water; Removing condense or defrost water
    • F25D2321/141—Removal by evaporation
    • F25D2321/1413—Removal by evaporation using heat from electric elements or using an electric field for enhancing removal

Definitions

  • the present invention relates in particular to an evaporation tray provided with an electric heater adapted to evaporate the condensation water produced, for example, in refrigerators, and to a method for controlling the operation of the evaporation tray.
  • condensation water is produced, which is usually collected in a container, such as a tray, which allows the water collected to evaporate and avoids the need to provide a connection to an external drainage system. It is also useful to speed up the evaporation, in particular when the refrigeration system is large in size and the amount of condensation produced is remarkable.
  • an electric heating resistor is provided, which is immersed in water and, by heating it, accelerates the evaporation thereof.
  • systems are provided for interrupting the electric current supplying the heating resistor which operate by means of a float. The use of a float creates reliability issues since it may become blocked due to the presence of scale or due to other reasons and no longer respond accurately.
  • the need is thus felt to overcome the disadvantages of known evaporation trays.
  • the need is felt for an evaporation tray for condensation water which works more reliably and can be manufactured at low cost.
  • an evaporation tray for condensation water in particular for refrigerators, according to claim 1 , comprising an electric heater arranged inside the tray, so that it can be wetted by the water contained in the tray, and adapted to generate heat when it is electrically powered, so as to heat the water contained in the tray, in particular to evaporate it; a PTC cartridge adapted to be electrically powered, arranged inside the tray so as to be wetted by the water contained in the tray, adapted to operate as a sensor for the presence of water in the tray; an electronic control unit connected to the electric heater and to the cartridge, configured to control, in particular to allow or prevent, the electric power supply of the electric heater; wherein the electric heater and the PTC cartridge are distinct from each other; wherein the electric heater extends lower than the PTC cartridge.
  • the electric heater can efficiently heat water, because it is arranged in the tray so that it can be wetted by water.
  • the electric heater it is possible to avoid the dry functioning of the electric heater, i.e. , it is possible to prevent the electric heater from heating up when it is not wetted by water, in particular, when it is not at least partially immersed in water.
  • the electric heater extends lower than the PTC cartridge, whereby the electric heater and the PTC cartridge are arranged so that when the tray receives water, in particular condensation water, the water level in the tray reaches the electric heater first and subsequently the PTC cartridge; i.e., the electric heater and the PTC cartridge are arranged so that when the tray receives condensation water, the electric heater gets wetted first and then, in particular only then, the PTC cartridge also gets wetted.
  • the distance, in particular the minimum distance, between the electric heater and the bottom of the tray is smaller than the distance, in particular than the minimum distance, between the PTC cartridge and the bottom of the tray.
  • the invention also relates to a refrigerator according to claim 13.
  • the invention also relates to a method, according to claim 14, for controlling the operation of an evaporation tray wherein if the electronic control unit detects that the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge is above a predetermined electric power threshold value or if the electronic control unit detects that the electric current with which the PTC cartridge is powered is above a predetermined electric current threshold value or if the electronic control unit detects that the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge is below a predetermined resistance threshold value, the electronic control unit allows the electric power supply of the electric heater; and if the electronic control unit detects that the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge is below the predetermined electric power threshold value or if the electronic control unit detects that the electric current with which the PTC cartridge is powered is below the predetermined electric current threshold value or if the electronic control unit detects that the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge is above the predetermined resistance threshold value, the electronic control unit prevents the electric power supply of the electric heater.
  • the PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) effect of the PTC cartridge is exploited to use the PTC cartridge as a sensor for the presence of water in the tray. If the PTC cartridge is wetted by water in the tray, the electric heater is activated (i.e. , it is electrically powered) to heat the water in the tray; if the PTC cartridge is not wetted by water in the tray, the electric heater is deactivated (i.e., it is not electrically powered).
  • Figure 1 diagrammatically shows a tray according to the invention, in a first operating condition
  • Figure 2 diagrammatically shows the tray in Figure 1 , in a second operating condition
  • Figure 3 shows an example of a component of a tray according to the invention
  • Figure 4 shows the component in Figure 3 with a part diagrammatically shown in section
  • Figure 5 diagrammatically shows a variant of a component of a tray according to the invention.
  • evaporation tray 1 for condensation water according to the invention is described.
  • the evaporation tray 1 is particularly, but not exclusively, adapted to be used in a refrigerator.
  • the evaporation tray 1 for condensed water 4, in particular for a refrigerator comprises an electric heater 3 arranged inside the tray 1 , so that it can be wetted by the water contained in the tray 1 , and adapted to generate heat when it is electrically powered, so as to heat the water 4 contained in the tray 1 , in particular to evaporate it; a PTC cartridge 2 adapted to be electrically powered, arranged inside the tray 1 so as to be wetted or touched by the water contained in the tray 1 , in particular, adapted to operate as a sensor for the presence of water in the tray 1 ; an electronic control unit 5 connected to the electric heater 3 and to the cartridge 2, configured to control, in particular to allow or prevent, the electric power supply of the electric heater 3; wherein the electric heater 3 and the PTC cartridge 2 are distinct from each other; wherein the electric heater 3 extends lower than (in particular, towards the bottom 12 of the tray 1 ) the PTC cartridge 2.
  • At least one part of the electric heater 3 is lower than the PTC cartridge 2; in particular, said at least one part comprises or is the heating part or portion 31 of the electric heater 3.
  • the electronic control unit 5 can be configured so as not to allow (i.e. , prevent) the electric power supply of the electric heater 3 when the water level is below the PTC cartridge 2 (i.e., when the PTC cartridge is not wetted by water), whereby, in this condition, the electric heater 3 does not provide heat.
  • the electric heater 3 and the PTC cartridge 2 are arranged so that when, in use, the tray 1 receives condensation water, the level of the condensation water in the tray 1 reaches the electric heater 3 first and then the PTC cartridge 2.
  • the electric heater 3 and the PTC cartridge 2 are arranged so that when, in use, the tray receives water, the electric heater gets wetted first and then, in particular only then, the PTC cartridge also gets wetted.
  • PTC cartridge 2 means, in particular, a PTC-effect cartridge.
  • PTC is the acronym for Positive Temperature Coefficient.
  • the resistance of the PTC cartridge 2 increases when the temperature increases, in particular the temperature thereof.
  • the PTC effect allows discriminating whether the PTC cartridge 2 is wetted by the water in the tray 1 or it is not wetted by water.
  • the PTC cartridge 2 is not wetted by the water in the tray 1 , in other words, the PTC cartridge 2 is substantially immersed only in air, as it occurs when the water level in the tray 1 is below the PTC cartridge 2.
  • the tray 1 does not require, and in particular it is not provided with a float or the like for controlling the electric power supply of the electric heater.
  • the PTC cartridge 2 because of the PTC effect, is configured so that, when it is immersed in water, it absorbs a greater electric power, preferably at least 5 times greater, for example from 5 to 10 times greater, and absorbs a greater electric current, preferably at least 5 times greater, for example from 5 to 10 times greater, and has a lower electrical resistance, preferably at least 5 times lower, for example from 5 to 10 times lower, than the electric power and the electric current it absorbs, and than the electrical resistance it has when substantially immersed only in air, respectively.
  • the PTC cartridge 2 can be configured to absorb a power equal to or approximately equal to 4 W, when it is substantially immersed only in air; and/or the PTC cartridge 2 can be configured to absorb an electric power equal to or approximately equal to 20 W, when it is wetted by the water 4 in the tray 1 .
  • the PTC cartridge 2 is adapted to generate heat when it is electrically powered, in particular very little heat. In particular, the PTC cartridge 2 heats up less, in particular much less, than the electric heater 3.
  • the PTC cartridge 2 and the electric heater 3 are, in particular, components which are distinct from each other, in particular distinct and separate, in particular different from each other.
  • the electric heater 3 is dedicated to heating the water 4 in the tray 1
  • the PTC cartridge 2 is adapted to be used as a water presence sensor.
  • the PTC cartridge 2 contains one or more resistors 8 or PTC-effect resistors therein, preferably PTC pads 8.
  • the PTC cartridge 2 comprises one or more metal bodies 9, for example made of aluminum, adapted to conduct current to said one or more PTC-effect heating resistors 8.
  • a non-limiting example of a PTC cartridge 2 provided with PTC pads 8 is shown in greater detail in Figures 3 and 4.
  • the current is transmitted to the PTC pads 8 by means of two bodies 9, for example two aluminum profiles 9, preferably having a semicircular cross-section.
  • Other forms of cartridge equivalent to this one disclosed are possible without departing from the scope of the invention.
  • the use of PTC pads is preferred for the advantages thereof, it does not exclude other types and forms of PTC-effect cartridges.
  • a feature of PTC cartridges 2, in particular of PTC-effect resistors or pads 8, is in particular that of increasing the resistance coefficient as the temperature of the PTC resistor 8 itself increases.
  • the PTC cartridge 2 is preferably fixed vertically to a wall of the tray 1 , for example by means of a locking ring 10.
  • the PTC cartridge 2 preferably has a substantially cylindrical shape.
  • the electronic control unit 5 is in particular configured to control, in particular to allow or prevent, the electric power supply of the electric heater 3 as a function of a predetermined liquid level L (in the tray 1 ).
  • Said predetermined liquid level L is substantially defined by the PTC cartridge 2, in particular by the position of the end 21 of the PTC cartridge 2 proximal to the bottom 12 of the tray 1 .
  • Figure 1 shows an operating condition in which the water 4 in the tray 1 wets part of the PTC cartridge 2.
  • Figure 2 shows an operating condition in which the water level in the tray 1 is below the PTC cartridge 2, and therefore the PTC cartridge 2 is not wetted by water in the tray, i.e., it is substantially immersed only in air.
  • the electronic control unit 5 is configured to allow or prevent (or, in other words, to activate or deactivate) the electric power supply of the electric heater 3 as a function of the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 or of the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered or of the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2.
  • the electronic control unit 5 can be configured to allow or prevent (or, in other words, to activate or deactivate) the electric power supply of the electric heater 3 as a function of one or more of: the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2, the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered or the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2.
  • the electronic control unit 5 is configured to allow the electric power supply of the electric heater 3 if the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 is above a predetermined electric power threshold value or if the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered is above a predetermined electric current threshold value or if the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2 is below a predetermined resistance value; and the electronic control unit 5 is configured to prevent the electric power supply of the electric heater 3 if the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 is below the predetermined electric power threshold value or if the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered is below the predetermined electric current threshold value or if the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2 is above the predetermined resistance threshold value.
  • the electronic control unit 5 preferably comprises a switch 51.
  • the switch 51 is preferably an electromechanical switch, for example a relay.
  • the electronic control unit 5 is in particular configured to measure the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered and/or the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 and/or the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2.
  • the electronic control unit 5 can be in particular configured to carry out said measurement continuously or at predetermined time intervals, preferably continuously.
  • the evaporation tray 1 in particular comprises an electric current meter (not shown) adapted to measure the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered; and/or an electric power meter (not shown) adapted to measure the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2; and/or an electrical resistance meter (not shown) adapted to measure the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2.
  • the electronic control unit 5 can advantageously be configured to detect if the PTC cartridge 2 is wetted by the water 4 in the tray 1 and if the water level 4 in the tray 1 is below the PTC cartridge 2 (or, in other words, if the PTC cartridge 2 is substantially immersed only in air), as a function of the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 or the electric power supply current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered or the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2.
  • the electric heater 3 is activated (i.e. , it is electrically powered) to heat the water in the tray 1 ; if the PTC cartridge 2 is not wetted by water in the tray 1 , the electric heater 3 is deactivated (i.e., it is not electrically powered). In particular, if the PTC cartridge 2 is not wetted by water, the electric heater 3 can be deactivated or kept deactivated.
  • the evaporation tray 1 in particular the electronic control unit 5, can be configured, for example, to electrically power the PTC cartridge 2 continuously or at predetermined time intervals, in particular to detect if the PTC cartridge 2 is wetted by the water.
  • the electric heater 3 is arranged inside the tray 1 so that it can be wetted by the water contained in the tray 1 , in particular to evaporate it.
  • the electric heater 3 can be wetted by the water to be heated, there is an excellent heat exchange with the water to be heated, whereby the heating is particularly efficient.
  • the distance d3, in particular the minimum distance, between the electric heater 3 (in particular, between the heating part 31 of the electric heater 3) and the bottom 12 of the tray 1 is smaller with respect to the distance d2, in particular the minimum distance, between the PTC cartridge 2 and the bottom 12 of the tray 1.
  • the electric heater 3 is prevented from dry functioning. In fact, as already mentioned, when the water level is below the PTC cartridge 2, the electric heater 3 is not electrically powered, thereby, in this condition, the electric heater 3 does not provide heat.
  • the electric heater 3 is particularly adapted to generate heat by means of the Joule effect.
  • the electric heater 3 does not have a PTC effect, i.e., the electric heater 3 has a substantially constant resistance as the temperature varies, i.e., it has a resistance substantially independent of the temperature.
  • An electric heater 3 of this type allows to deliver more heat with respect to a PTC heater and is also more economical.
  • the electric heater 3 is, for example, a sheathed resistor, in particular provided with an outer metal armor, for example made of steel.
  • the PTC cartridge 2 is enclosed in a thermally insulating structure or shield 6 or thermally insulating element.
  • the thermally insulating structure 6 can be a pipe made of a low conductivity material, e.g., stainless steel, or a cover consisting of a sheath of glass wool or ceramic wool or another thermally insulating material.
  • the thermally insulating structure 6, when provided, allows in any case the water in the tray 1 to wet the PTC cartridge 2.
  • the structure 6 is provided with a plurality of holes or openings, for example pores.
  • the holes can be made in the metal pipe or, in the case of an insulation of the glass wool or ceramic wool type, or of a similar insulating material, it is the porous structure of the material itself which ensures that the water can in any case wet the outer surface of the PTC cartridge 2.
  • the optional use of the thermally insulating structure 6, advantageously, allows increasing the difference between the electric power absorbed (and power supply current and resistance of the PTC cartridge 2) when the PTC cartridge 2 is at least partially wetted by the water in the tray 1 , and when the PTC cartridge 2 is not wetted by water.
  • the Inventors have found that a PTC cartridge 2 provided with the thermally insulating structure 6 is also more efficient, in particular it can consume less energy when the PTC cartridge 2 is electrically powered and is not wetted by water.
  • this advantage is given, in particular, by the combination of the PTC effect and the thermally insulating structure 6.
  • the absorbed power difference between a state in which the PTC cartridge 2 is wetted by water and a state in which it is not wetted by water is increased, and this therefore allows for a better detection of the presence of water in the tray 1 .
  • the invention also relates to a refrigerator provided with an evaporation tray 1 .
  • the invention also relates to a method for controlling the operation of an evaporation tray 1 ; wherein if the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 is above a predetermined electric power threshold value or if the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered is above a predetermined electric current threshold value or if the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2 is below a predetermined resistance threshold value, the electronic control unit 5 allows the electric power supply of the electric heater 3; and if the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 is below the predetermined electric power threshold value or if the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered is below the predetermined electric current threshold value or if the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2 is above the predetermined resistance threshold value, the electronic control unit 5 prevents the electric power supply of the electric heater 3.
  • the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 is above said predetermined electric power threshold value or the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered is above said predetermined electric current threshold value or the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2 is below the predetermined resistance threshold value; and/or when the PTC cartridge 2 is substantially immersed only in air, the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 is below said predetermined electric power threshold value or the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered is below said predetermined electric current threshold value or the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2 is above the predetermined resistance threshold value.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Control Of Resistance Heating (AREA)

Abstract

An evaporation tray (1) for condensation water (4), in particular for a refrigerator,comprisingan electric heater (3) arranged inside the tray (1), so that it can be wetted by the water contained in the tray (1), and adapted to generate heat when it is electricallypowered, so as to heat the water (4) contained in the tray (1), in particular toevaporate it;a PTC cartridge (2) adapted to be electrically powered, arranged inside the tray(1) so as to be wetted by the water contained in the tray (1), adapted to operate as a sensor for the presence of water in the tray (1);an electronic control unit (5) connected to the electric heater (3) and to thecartridge (2), configured to control, in particular to allow or prevent, the electricpower supply of the electric heater (3);wherein the electric heater (3) extends lower than the PTC cartridge (2).

Description

EVAPORATION TRAY FOR CONDENSATION WATER
Field of the invention
The present invention relates in particular to an evaporation tray provided with an electric heater adapted to evaporate the condensation water produced, for example, in refrigerators, and to a method for controlling the operation of the evaporation tray. Background art
In refrigeration systems, during operation, condensation water is produced, which is usually collected in a container, such as a tray, which allows the water collected to evaporate and avoids the need to provide a connection to an external drainage system. It is also useful to speed up the evaporation, in particular when the refrigeration system is large in size and the amount of condensation produced is remarkable. For this purpose, an electric heating resistor is provided, which is immersed in water and, by heating it, accelerates the evaporation thereof. In evaporation trays of the known type, systems are provided for interrupting the electric current supplying the heating resistor which operate by means of a float. The use of a float creates reliability issues since it may become blocked due to the presence of scale or due to other reasons and no longer respond accurately.
The need is thus felt to overcome the disadvantages of known evaporation trays. In particular, the need is felt for an evaporation tray for condensation water which works more reliably and can be manufactured at low cost.
Summary of the invention
It is an object of the present invention to provide an evaporation tray for condensation water which is more reliable as compared to the prior art.
In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide an evaporation tray for condensation water which does not include a float or the like for activating and deactivating the heater which heats the condensation water in the tray to evaporate it.
It is a particular object of the present invention to provide an evaporation tray for condensation water which is reliable and can be manufactured at low cost.
It is a particular object of the present invention to create an evaporation tray for condensation water which allows an efficient heating of the water and which offers the possibility of preventing the heater from dry functioning.
The present invention achieves at least one of such objects, and other objects which will become apparent in the light of the present description, by means of an evaporation tray for condensation water, in particular for refrigerators, according to claim 1 , comprising an electric heater arranged inside the tray, so that it can be wetted by the water contained in the tray, and adapted to generate heat when it is electrically powered, so as to heat the water contained in the tray, in particular to evaporate it; a PTC cartridge adapted to be electrically powered, arranged inside the tray so as to be wetted by the water contained in the tray, adapted to operate as a sensor for the presence of water in the tray; an electronic control unit connected to the electric heater and to the cartridge, configured to control, in particular to allow or prevent, the electric power supply of the electric heater; wherein the electric heater and the PTC cartridge are distinct from each other; wherein the electric heater extends lower than the PTC cartridge.
Advantageously, the electric heater can efficiently heat water, because it is arranged in the tray so that it can be wetted by water.
Advantageously, it is possible to avoid the dry functioning of the electric heater, i.e. , it is possible to prevent the electric heater from heating up when it is not wetted by water, in particular, when it is not at least partially immersed in water.
Advantageously, the electric heater extends lower than the PTC cartridge, whereby the electric heater and the PTC cartridge are arranged so that when the tray receives water, in particular condensation water, the water level in the tray reaches the electric heater first and subsequently the PTC cartridge; i.e., the electric heater and the PTC cartridge are arranged so that when the tray receives condensation water, the electric heater gets wetted first and then, in particular only then, the PTC cartridge also gets wetted.
In particular, the distance, in particular the minimum distance, between the electric heater and the bottom of the tray is smaller than the distance, in particular than the minimum distance, between the PTC cartridge and the bottom of the tray.
The invention also relates to a refrigerator according to claim 13. The invention also relates to a method, according to claim 14, for controlling the operation of an evaporation tray wherein if the electronic control unit detects that the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge is above a predetermined electric power threshold value or if the electronic control unit detects that the electric current with which the PTC cartridge is powered is above a predetermined electric current threshold value or if the electronic control unit detects that the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge is below a predetermined resistance threshold value, the electronic control unit allows the electric power supply of the electric heater; and if the electronic control unit detects that the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge is below the predetermined electric power threshold value or if the electronic control unit detects that the electric current with which the PTC cartridge is powered is below the predetermined electric current threshold value or if the electronic control unit detects that the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge is above the predetermined resistance threshold value, the electronic control unit prevents the electric power supply of the electric heater.
Advantageously, according to the invention, the PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) effect of the PTC cartridge is exploited to use the PTC cartridge as a sensor for the presence of water in the tray. If the PTC cartridge is wetted by water in the tray, the electric heater is activated (i.e. , it is electrically powered) to heat the water in the tray; if the PTC cartridge is not wetted by water in the tray, the electric heater is deactivated (i.e., it is not electrically powered).
Further features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent in light of the detailed description of exemplary, but non-exclusive embodiments thereof.
The dependent claims describe particular embodiments of the invention.
Brief description of the drawings
The description of the invention refers to the accompanying drawings, which are provided by way of non-limiting examples, in which:
Figure 1 diagrammatically shows a tray according to the invention, in a first operating condition;
Figure 2 diagrammatically shows the tray in Figure 1 , in a second operating condition; Figure 3 shows an example of a component of a tray according to the invention;
Figure 4 shows the component in Figure 3 with a part diagrammatically shown in section;
Figure 5 diagrammatically shows a variant of a component of a tray according to the invention.
The same elements or functionally equivalent elements have the same reference numerals.
Description of exemplary embodiments of the invention
With reference to the Figures, exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of an evaporation tray 1 for condensation water according to the invention are described. The evaporation tray 1 is particularly, but not exclusively, adapted to be used in a refrigerator.
In all embodiments, the evaporation tray 1 for condensed water 4, in particular for a refrigerator, comprises an electric heater 3 arranged inside the tray 1 , so that it can be wetted by the water contained in the tray 1 , and adapted to generate heat when it is electrically powered, so as to heat the water 4 contained in the tray 1 , in particular to evaporate it; a PTC cartridge 2 adapted to be electrically powered, arranged inside the tray 1 so as to be wetted or touched by the water contained in the tray 1 , in particular, adapted to operate as a sensor for the presence of water in the tray 1 ; an electronic control unit 5 connected to the electric heater 3 and to the cartridge 2, configured to control, in particular to allow or prevent, the electric power supply of the electric heater 3; wherein the electric heater 3 and the PTC cartridge 2 are distinct from each other; wherein the electric heater 3 extends lower than (in particular, towards the bottom 12 of the tray 1 ) the PTC cartridge 2.
In particular, in all embodiments, at least one part of the electric heater 3 is lower than the PTC cartridge 2; in particular, said at least one part comprises or is the heating part or portion 31 of the electric heater 3.
Advantageously, this prevents the electric heater 3 from dry functioning. In fact, the electronic control unit 5 can be configured so as not to allow (i.e. , prevent) the electric power supply of the electric heater 3 when the water level is below the PTC cartridge 2 (i.e., when the PTC cartridge is not wetted by water), whereby, in this condition, the electric heater 3 does not provide heat.
Advantageously, the electric heater 3 and the PTC cartridge 2 are arranged so that when, in use, the tray 1 receives condensation water, the level of the condensation water in the tray 1 reaches the electric heater 3 first and then the PTC cartridge 2.
In other words, the electric heater 3 and the PTC cartridge 2 are arranged so that when, in use, the tray receives water, the electric heater gets wetted first and then, in particular only then, the PTC cartridge also gets wetted. PTC cartridge 2 means, in particular, a PTC-effect cartridge. As it is known to those skilled in the art, “PTC” is the acronym for Positive Temperature Coefficient.
In particular, the resistance of the PTC cartridge 2 increases when the temperature increases, in particular the temperature thereof.
The PTC effect allows discriminating whether the PTC cartridge 2 is wetted by the water in the tray 1 or it is not wetted by water. When the PTC cartridge 2 is not wetted by the water in the tray 1 , in other words, the PTC cartridge 2 is substantially immersed only in air, as it occurs when the water level in the tray 1 is below the PTC cartridge 2.
In fact, by using a PTC cartridge 2, there is a substantial difference in resistance as well as in power supply current, and therefore in absorbed power, between a state in which the PTC cartridge 2 is (at least in part) touched or wetted by the water in the tray 1 and a state in which the PTC cartridge 2 is dry, i.e., it is not touched nor wetted by the water in the tray 1 . In other words, by using a PTC cartridge 2, there is a substantial difference in resistance, as well as in electric power supply, and therefore in electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 between a state in which the PTC cartridge 2 is not immersed in the water in the tray and a state in which the cartridge is immersed (even only partially) in the water in the tray 1 . Therefore, resistance or electric current or absorbed power values can be indicative of the presence of liquid in the tray, detected in particular by means of the PTC cartridge 2. Advantageously, by exploiting the PTC cartridge 2 as a water presence sensor, the tray 1 does not require, and in particular it is not provided with a float or the like for controlling the electric power supply of the electric heater.
In particular, the PTC cartridge 2, because of the PTC effect, is configured so that, when it is immersed in water, it absorbs a greater electric power, preferably at least 5 times greater, for example from 5 to 10 times greater, and absorbs a greater electric current, preferably at least 5 times greater, for example from 5 to 10 times greater, and has a lower electrical resistance, preferably at least 5 times lower, for example from 5 to 10 times lower, than the electric power and the electric current it absorbs, and than the electrical resistance it has when substantially immersed only in air, respectively.
For example, the PTC cartridge 2 can be configured to absorb a power equal to or approximately equal to 4 W, when it is substantially immersed only in air; and/or the PTC cartridge 2 can be configured to absorb an electric power equal to or approximately equal to 20 W, when it is wetted by the water 4 in the tray 1 .
The PTC cartridge 2 is adapted to generate heat when it is electrically powered, in particular very little heat. In particular, the PTC cartridge 2 heats up less, in particular much less, than the electric heater 3.
In all embodiments, the PTC cartridge 2 and the electric heater 3 are, in particular, components which are distinct from each other, in particular distinct and separate, in particular different from each other. In particular, the electric heater 3 is dedicated to heating the water 4 in the tray 1 , and the PTC cartridge 2 is adapted to be used as a water presence sensor.
Exclusively by way of example and not by way of limitation, with particular reference to Figures 3 and 4, the PTC cartridge 2 contains one or more resistors 8 or PTC-effect resistors therein, preferably PTC pads 8.
Preferably, the PTC cartridge 2 comprises one or more metal bodies 9, for example made of aluminum, adapted to conduct current to said one or more PTC-effect heating resistors 8.
A non-limiting example of a PTC cartridge 2 provided with PTC pads 8 is shown in greater detail in Figures 3 and 4. In particular, the current is transmitted to the PTC pads 8 by means of two bodies 9, for example two aluminum profiles 9, preferably having a semicircular cross-section. Other forms of cartridge equivalent to this one disclosed are possible without departing from the scope of the invention. Although the use of PTC pads is preferred for the advantages thereof, it does not exclude other types and forms of PTC-effect cartridges.
A feature of PTC cartridges 2, in particular of PTC-effect resistors or pads 8, is in particular that of increasing the resistance coefficient as the temperature of the PTC resistor 8 itself increases.
The PTC cartridge 2 is preferably fixed vertically to a wall of the tray 1 , for example by means of a locking ring 10.
The PTC cartridge 2 preferably has a substantially cylindrical shape. The cartridge
2 is preferably provided with a junction which is threaded at the base.
The electronic control unit 5 is in particular configured to control, in particular to allow or prevent, the electric power supply of the electric heater 3 as a function of a predetermined liquid level L (in the tray 1 ). Said predetermined liquid level L is substantially defined by the PTC cartridge 2, in particular by the position of the end 21 of the PTC cartridge 2 proximal to the bottom 12 of the tray 1 . When the water level 4 in the tray 1 is above the level L (Figure 1 ), the electric heater 3 is activated, i.e., it is electrically powered, producing heat for the evaporation of the water 4; and when the water level 4 in the tray 1 is below the level L (Figure 2), the electric heater
3 is deactivated, i.e., it is not electrically powered, whereby it does not generate heat.
Figure 1 shows an operating condition in which the water 4 in the tray 1 wets part of the PTC cartridge 2.
Figure 2 shows an operating condition in which the water level in the tray 1 is below the PTC cartridge 2, and therefore the PTC cartridge 2 is not wetted by water in the tray, i.e., it is substantially immersed only in air.
In particular, the electronic control unit 5 is configured to allow or prevent (or, in other words, to activate or deactivate) the electric power supply of the electric heater 3 as a function of the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 or of the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered or of the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2. The electronic control unit 5 can be configured to allow or prevent (or, in other words, to activate or deactivate) the electric power supply of the electric heater 3 as a function of one or more of: the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2, the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered or the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2.
More in particular, the electronic control unit 5 is configured to allow the electric power supply of the electric heater 3 if the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 is above a predetermined electric power threshold value or if the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered is above a predetermined electric current threshold value or if the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2 is below a predetermined resistance value; and the electronic control unit 5 is configured to prevent the electric power supply of the electric heater 3 if the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 is below the predetermined electric power threshold value or if the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered is below the predetermined electric current threshold value or if the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2 is above the predetermined resistance threshold value.
In order to control, in particular to allow or prevent, the electric power supply of the electric heater 3, the electronic control unit 5 preferably comprises a switch 51. The switch 51 is preferably an electromechanical switch, for example a relay.
The electronic control unit 5 is in particular configured to measure the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered and/or the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 and/or the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2. The electronic control unit 5 can be in particular configured to carry out said measurement continuously or at predetermined time intervals, preferably continuously.
The evaporation tray 1 in particular comprises an electric current meter (not shown) adapted to measure the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered; and/or an electric power meter (not shown) adapted to measure the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2; and/or an electrical resistance meter (not shown) adapted to measure the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2. In particular, by virtue of the PTC effect of the PTC cartridge 2, the electronic control unit 5 can advantageously be configured to detect if the PTC cartridge 2 is wetted by the water 4 in the tray 1 and if the water level 4 in the tray 1 is below the PTC cartridge 2 (or, in other words, if the PTC cartridge 2 is substantially immersed only in air), as a function of the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 or the electric power supply current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered or the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2.
In particular, if the PTC cartridge 2 is wetted by water 4 in the tray 1 , the electric heater 3 is activated (i.e. , it is electrically powered) to heat the water in the tray 1 ; if the PTC cartridge 2 is not wetted by water in the tray 1 , the electric heater 3 is deactivated (i.e., it is not electrically powered). In particular, if the PTC cartridge 2 is not wetted by water, the electric heater 3 can be deactivated or kept deactivated.
The evaporation tray 1 , in particular the electronic control unit 5, can be configured, for example, to electrically power the PTC cartridge 2 continuously or at predetermined time intervals, in particular to detect if the PTC cartridge 2 is wetted by the water.
As mentioned above, the electric heater 3 is arranged inside the tray 1 so that it can be wetted by the water contained in the tray 1 , in particular to evaporate it. Advantageously, since the electric heater 3 can be wetted by the water to be heated, there is an excellent heat exchange with the water to be heated, whereby the heating is particularly efficient.
Preferably, the distance d3, in particular the minimum distance, between the electric heater 3 (in particular, between the heating part 31 of the electric heater 3) and the bottom 12 of the tray 1 is smaller with respect to the distance d2, in particular the minimum distance, between the PTC cartridge 2 and the bottom 12 of the tray 1. Advantageously, as explained above, the electric heater 3 is prevented from dry functioning. In fact, as already mentioned, when the water level is below the PTC cartridge 2, the electric heater 3 is not electrically powered, thereby, in this condition, the electric heater 3 does not provide heat.
The electric heater 3 is particularly adapted to generate heat by means of the Joule effect. In particular, preferably, in all embodiments, the electric heater 3 does not have a PTC effect, i.e., the electric heater 3 has a substantially constant resistance as the temperature varies, i.e., it has a resistance substantially independent of the temperature.
An electric heater 3 of this type allows to deliver more heat with respect to a PTC heater and is also more economical.
The electric heater 3 is, for example, a sheathed resistor, in particular provided with an outer metal armor, for example made of steel.
With reference to Figure 5, optionally, the PTC cartridge 2 is enclosed in a thermally insulating structure or shield 6 or thermally insulating element. For example, the thermally insulating structure 6 can be a pipe made of a low conductivity material, e.g., stainless steel, or a cover consisting of a sheath of glass wool or ceramic wool or another thermally insulating material.
The thermally insulating structure 6, when provided, allows in any case the water in the tray 1 to wet the PTC cartridge 2. In particular, the structure 6 is provided with a plurality of holes or openings, for example pores. For example, the holes can be made in the metal pipe or, in the case of an insulation of the glass wool or ceramic wool type, or of a similar insulating material, it is the porous structure of the material itself which ensures that the water can in any case wet the outer surface of the PTC cartridge 2.
The optional use of the thermally insulating structure 6, advantageously, allows increasing the difference between the electric power absorbed (and power supply current and resistance of the PTC cartridge 2) when the PTC cartridge 2 is at least partially wetted by the water in the tray 1 , and when the PTC cartridge 2 is not wetted by water. The Inventors have found that a PTC cartridge 2 provided with the thermally insulating structure 6 is also more efficient, in particular it can consume less energy when the PTC cartridge 2 is electrically powered and is not wetted by water. The Inventors have found that this advantage is given, in particular, by the combination of the PTC effect and the thermally insulating structure 6. Furthermore, advantageously, in this manner, the absorbed power difference between a state in which the PTC cartridge 2 is wetted by water and a state in which it is not wetted by water is increased, and this therefore allows for a better detection of the presence of water in the tray 1 .
The invention also relates to a refrigerator provided with an evaporation tray 1 .
The invention also relates to a method for controlling the operation of an evaporation tray 1 ; wherein if the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 is above a predetermined electric power threshold value or if the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered is above a predetermined electric current threshold value or if the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2 is below a predetermined resistance threshold value, the electronic control unit 5 allows the electric power supply of the electric heater 3; and if the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 is below the predetermined electric power threshold value or if the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered is below the predetermined electric current threshold value or if the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2 is above the predetermined resistance threshold value, the electronic control unit 5 prevents the electric power supply of the electric heater 3.
In particular, when the PTC cartridge 2 is wetted by the water 4 in the tray 1 , the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 is above said predetermined electric power threshold value or the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered is above said predetermined electric current threshold value or the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2 is below the predetermined resistance threshold value; and/or when the PTC cartridge 2 is substantially immersed only in air, the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge 2 is below said predetermined electric power threshold value or the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electric current with which the PTC cartridge 2 is powered is below said predetermined electric current threshold value or the electronic control unit 5 detects that the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge 2 is above the predetermined resistance threshold value.

Claims

1. An evaporation tray (1 ) for condensation water (4), in particular for a refrigerator, comprising an electric heater (3) arranged inside the tray (1 ), so that it can be wetted by the water contained in the tray (1 ), and adapted to generate heat when it is electrically powered, so that it can heat the water (4) contained in the tray (1 ), in particular to evaporate it; a PTC cartridge (2) adapted to be electrically powered, arranged inside the tray
(1 ) so that it can be wetted by the water contained in the tray (1 ), adapted to operate as a sensor for the presence of water in the tray (1 ); an electronic control unit (5) connected to the electric heater (3) and to the PTC cartridge (2), configured to control, in particular to allow or prevent, the electric power supply of the electric heater (3); wherein the electric heater (3) and the PTC cartridge (2) are distinct from each other; wherein the electric heater (3) extends lower than the PTC cartridge (2).
2. An evaporation tray (1 ) according to claim 1 , wherein the electronic control unit (5) is configured to allow or prevent the electric power supply of the electric heater (3) as a function of the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge (2) or of the electric current with which the PTC cartridge (2) is powered or as a function of the resistance of the PTC cartridge (2).
3. An evaporation tray (1 ) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the electronic control unit (5) is configured to allow the electric power supply of the electric heater (3) if the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge (2) is above a predetermined electric power threshold value or if the electric current with which the PTC cartridge
(2) is powered is above a predetermined electric current threshold value or if the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge (2) is below a predetermined resistance threshold value.
4. An evaporation tray (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic control unit (5) is configured to prevent the electric power supply of the electric heater (3) if the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge (2) is below the predetermined electric power threshold value or if the electric current with which the PTC cartridge (2) is powered is below the predetermined electric current threshold value or if the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge (2) is above the predetermined resistance threshold value.
5. An evaporation tray (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an electric current meter adapted to measure the electric current with which the PTC cartridge (2) is powered or an electric power meter adapted to measure the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge (2) or an electrical resistance meter adapted to measure the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge (2).
6. An evaporation tray (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic control unit (5) is configured to detect if the PTC cartridge (2) is wetted by the water (4) in the tray (1 ) and if the level of water (4) in the tray (1 ) is below the PTC cartridge (2), as a function of the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge (2) or of the electric power supply current with which the PTC cartridge (2) is powered or of the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge (2).
7. An evaporation tray (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, configured to electrically power the PTC cartridge (2) continuously or at predetermined time intervals.
8. An evaporation tray (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic control unit (5) is configured to measure the electric current with which the PTC cartridge (2) is powered or the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge (2) or the resistance of the PTC cartridge (2); in particular, continuously or at predetermined time intervals.
9. An evaporation tray (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the PTC cartridge (2) is configured to have, when wetted by water, in particular immersed in water, a lower electrical resistance than the electrical resistance it has when it is substantially immersed only in air; in particular, wherein the PTC cartridge (2) is configured to absorb higher electric power and higher electric current than the electric power and the electric current it absorbs when it is substantially immersed only in air, respectively.
10. An evaporation tray (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric heater (3) has a resistance substantially independent from the temperature.
11. An evaporation tray (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distance, in particular the minimum distance, between the electric heater (3) and the bottom (12) of the tray (1 ) is smaller than the distance, in particular the minimum distance, between the PTC cartridge (2) and the bottom (12) of the tray (1 ).
12. An evaporation tray (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the PTC cartridge (2) is enclosed in a thermally insulating structure (6) provided with a plurality of openings, in particular adapted to allow the passage of water; preferably wherein said thermally insulating structure (6) is a stainless-steel tube, or a glass wool coating or a ceramic wool coating.
13. A refrigerator provided with an evaporation tray (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims.
14. A method for controlling the operation of an evaporation tray (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 12; wherein if the electronic control unit (5) detects that the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge (2) is above a predetermined electric power threshold value or if the electronic control unit (5) detects that the electric current with which the PTC cartridge (2) is powered is above a predetermined electric current threshold value or if the electronic control unit (5) detects that the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge (2) is below a predetermined resistance threshold value, it allows the electric power supply of the electric heater (3); and if the electronic control unit (5) detects that the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge (2) is below the predetermined electric power threshold value or if the electronic control unit (5) detects that the electric current with which the PTC cartridge (2) is powered is below the predetermined electric current threshold value or if the electronic control unit (5) detects that the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge (2) is above the predetermined resistance threshold value, it prevents the electric power supply of the electric heater (3).
15. A method according to claim 14, wherein when the PTC cartridge (2) is wetted by the water (4) in the tray (1 ), the electronic control unit (5) detects that the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge (2) is above said predetermined electric power threshold value or the electronic control unit (5) detects that the electric current with which the PTC cartridge (2) is powered is above said predetermined electric current threshold value or the electronic control unit (5) detects that the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge (2) is below the predetermined resistance threshold value; and/or when the PTC cartridge (2) is substantially immersed only in air, the electronic control unit (5) detects that the electric power absorbed by the PTC cartridge (2) is below said predetermined electric power threshold value or the electronic control unit (5) detects that the electric current with which the PTC cartridge (2) is powered is below said predetermined electric current threshold value or the electronic control unit (5) detects that the electrical resistance of the PTC cartridge (2) is above the predetermined resistance threshold value.
PCT/IB2024/052630 2023-03-22 2024-03-19 Evaporation tray for condensation water WO2024194791A1 (en)

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IT202300005385 2023-03-22

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Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5323620A (en) * 1992-01-23 1994-06-28 Imi Air Conditioning Limited Air conditioners
DE102011075002A1 (en) * 2011-04-29 2012-10-31 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Monitoring method for monitoring filling level in evaporation container of refrigerator, particularly domestic refrigerating appliance, involves placing heating element with temperature-dependant resistance value under evaporation container
IT201700027219A1 (en) * 2017-03-14 2018-09-14 Esseci Srl PTC ACTIVATION AND RESISTANCE DEVICE

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5323620A (en) * 1992-01-23 1994-06-28 Imi Air Conditioning Limited Air conditioners
DE102011075002A1 (en) * 2011-04-29 2012-10-31 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Monitoring method for monitoring filling level in evaporation container of refrigerator, particularly domestic refrigerating appliance, involves placing heating element with temperature-dependant resistance value under evaporation container
IT201700027219A1 (en) * 2017-03-14 2018-09-14 Esseci Srl PTC ACTIVATION AND RESISTANCE DEVICE

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