Air circulation and filtration system for a refrigerator

US6918259B2 · kind B2 · utility

Inventors

• Troy M. Anderson · Marion, US
• Gregory Scott Carr · Louisville, US
• James H. Jenkins, Jr. · South Amana, US
• Mark W. Mooberry · Des Moines, US
• Todd E. Pritts · Cedar Rapids, US
• Todd J. Tunzi · Three Rivers, US
• Dennis E. Winders · Cedar Rapids, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jul 31, 2003
• Grant date: Jul 19, 2005
• Expiry date: Jul 31, 2023

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F25D2700/14
• WIPO field: Other consumer goods
• WIPO sector: Other fields

Abstract

A refrigerator includes a fresh food stirring fan assembly arranged within a fresh food compartment. The stirring fan assembly functions to recirculate air in order to minimize temperature stratification in the fresh food compartment. The stirring fan assembly preferably incorporates a filter to remove airborne debris and absorb odors. In accordance with one preferred embodiment of the invention, the fresh food stirring fan is operated whenever a damper controlling an inlet flow of cooling air to the fresh food compartment is in a closed position.