Control system and related methods for refrigeration and freezer units
US6354093B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 6, 2001 |
| Grant date | Mar 12, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 6, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF25D2700/12
- WIPO fieldOther consumer goods
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A cooling system and related method of defrosting a refrigeration unit or a freezer unit involves the steps of (a) monitoring a compressor running time, (b) monitoring an evaporator coil temperature, (c) monitoring a first time period since a last cooled compartment door open alarm of the unit, (d) monitoring a second time period since a last defrost operation, (e) monitoring a third time period during which the cooled compartment door is closed, and (f) controlling initiation of a defrost operation as a function of the monitored compressor running time, the monitored evaporator coil temperature, the monitored first time period, the monitored second time period, and the monitored third time period. Various sets of conditions may be established for triggering initiation of the defrost operation. The system may also detect refrigerant leaks and a clogged condenser as a function of compressor running time and compressor discharge line temperature.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.