FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
[0001] The present invention relates to a multifunctional refrigeration system. More
particularly, the present invention relates to a refrigeration system with a novel zone to perform
at least one of thawing, pasteurization and like processes.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
[0002] Spoilage of food is a common phenomenon under hot and humid conditions, more
particularly in summers. The present day refrigeration system may include two zones i.e. a
refrigerator zone and a freezer zone. The refrigerator zone may be utilized for the storage of
different solid/liquid food items like milk, juice, fruits, vegetables etc. in order to avoid the
spoilage. In present refrigeration systems to avoid milk from spoilage, the milk needs to be
cooled after boiling and then it may be subjected to the refrigeration system for storage. Now,
every time the user want to drink milk he may have to repeat the process of heating and cooling
several times which leads to the spoilage, bacterial contamination and wastage of energy in
various forms like heat and electricity due to repeated heating.
[0003] The freezer zone of the refrigeration system specifically may be used for the
preparation of ice and other similar functions. The freezer zone may further be utilized for the
deep freezing of the food materials. Deep freezing is a process where a food item may be
freezed under ice cold conditions in order to prevent it from damage for longer duration. The
frozen food material may have to go through a process of thawing in order to be utilized for
consumption. Thawing may be change of state of food from a frozen solid to a liquid by gradual
warming. Thawing frozen food correctly is very important for keeping food safe to eat.
Thawing done under atmospheric conditions may have several disadvantages such as long time,
there exist a possibility of microbial growth and considerably the taste of the food may change.
In order to perform thawing thus one may need a special apparatus like a microwave etc. The
current refrigeration systems do not have provision to perform functions like pasteurization and
thawing and like.
[0004] Thus, there exist a need for an improved refrigerator system that may include
zones other than freezer and refrigeration. Further, the need exist for a refrigerator system that
may be equipped with functionalities such as pasteurization, thawing, preservation of baby food
all within one apparatus.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
[0005] In an aspect, the present invention relates to, a multifunctional refrigerator system
including a refrigeration zone, a freezer zone and a combi zone. The combi zone includes a
plurality of compartments comprising a first compartment and a second compartment. The first
compartment may be configured to perform either one of pasteurization or heating of milk. The
second compartment may be configured to perform either one of thawing and sterilization.
[0006] In another aspect, the first compartment, may include a heating source and a
cooling source.
[0007] In still another aspect, the second compartment, may include a heating source and
a cooling source.
[0008] In yet another aspect, the heating source of, may include one of infra-red or
microwave emitter.
[0009] In still another aspect, the heating source , may include one of infra-red emitter,
microwave emitter and condenser tubes.
[0010] In yet another aspect, the cooling source, may be provided with an opening
wherein, the opening may be an opening of a duct. The duct may further be configured to carry
cold air from the freezer zone to the first compartment and the second compartment.
[0011] In still another aspect, the opening, may be controlled via a damper mechanism.
The damper mechanism may be configured to control flow of cold air.
[0012] In yet another aspect, the freezer zone, may include a fan to direct the flow of air
into the duct.
[0013] In still another aspect, the first compartment, may include a UV source. The UV
source may pasteurize the food item kept inside the first compartment.
[0014] In yet another aspect, the second compartment, may include a UV source. The
UV source of the second compartment may assist in sterilization of food item kept inside.
[0015] In still another aspect, the first compartment and the second compartment, may
have separate user interface.
[0016] In yet another aspect, the user interface of first compartment , may allow a user to
select from pasteurization and heating of milk.
[0017] In still another aspect, the user interface of second compartment, may allow the
user to select from sterilization and thawing.
[0018] In yet another aspect, the user interface of either compartments, may allow the
user to select temperature or time profile.
[0019] In still another aspect, the user interface of either compartments, may allow the
user to select customized temperature or time profile for selected food.
[0020] In yet another aspect, the user interface of either compartments, may allow the
user to select UV source for pasteurization and sterilization of food item kept inside the
respective compartments.
[0021] In still another aspect, the first compartment and the second compartment, may
operate simultaneously.
[0022] In yet another aspect, the combi zone, may be placed between the refrigerator
zone and the freezer zone.
[0023] In still another aspect, the combi zone, may be placed over the freezer zone,
wherein the freezer zone may be placed above the refrigerator zone.
[0024] In yet another aspect, the combi zone , may be placed below the refrigerator
zone, wherein the refrigerator zone may be placed below the freezer zone.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:
[0025] The features of the present invention are set forth with particularity in the
appended claims. The invention itself, together with further features and attended advantages,
will become apparent from consideration of the following detailed description, taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments of the present
invention are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanied
drawings wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:
[0026] Fig. 1 is a front view of a refrigeration system, according to various embodiments.
[0027] Fig. 2a, 2b & 2c represent the perspective view of a refrigeration system ,
according to various embodiments.
[0028] Fig. 3a is the perspective view of the refrigeration system, with combi-zone in an
opened position, according to various embodiments.
[0029] Fig. 3b is the detailed perspective view of the combi-zone of the refrigeration
system, in opened position, according to various embodiments.
[0030] Fig 3c illustrates the cross-sectional view of combi-zone showing damper
mechanism for the either compartment, according to various embodiments.
[0031] Fig. 4 is the cross-sectional view of the first compartment of the combi-zone,
according to various embodiments.
[0032] Fig. 5 is the cross-sectional view of the second compartment of the combi-zone,
according to various embodiments.
[0033] Fig 6A represents the front view of the refrigeration system, according to various
embodiments.
[0034] Fig. 6B represents the front view of a freezer zone, according to various
embodiments.
[0035] Fig 7A- 7C represents the cross-sectional view of the freezer compartment along
with refrigeration system, according to various embodiments.
DETAIED DESCRIPTION:
[0036] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms,
specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be
described in detail below. It should be understood, however that it is not intended to limit the
invention to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is to cover all
modifications, equivalents, and alternative falling within the spirit and the scope of the invention
as defined by the appended claims.
[0037] Before describing in detail embodiments it may be observed that the novelty and
inventive step that are in accordance with the present invention reside in the construction of the
structure of combi-zone in a refrigeration system accordingly, the drawings are showing only
those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present
invention so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of
ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.
[0038] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are
intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a setup, device that comprises a list of
components does not include only those components but may include other components not
expressly listed or inherent to such setup or device. In other words, one or more elements in a
system or apparatus proceeded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude
the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.
[0039] Fig 1 shows a front view of a refrigeration system 100. As shown in fig 1 the
refrigeration system 100 may include a freezer zone 102, a refrigerator zone 104 and a combi
zone 106. With reference to fig 1 the refrigeration system 100 may be configured to have a
length “L”, wherein the length, L of the refrigeration system 100 may be variable. The
refrigeration system 100 may be configured to have the freezer zone 102 as the top compartment.
The freezer zone 102 of the refrigeration system 100 comprises an access door 124. The access
door 124 of the freezer zone 102 may be mounted with a user interface 108, wherein the user
interface 108 assists a user for selecting and setting one of the time, temperature and other like
profile for the freezer zone 102 from outside. Further the door 124 of the freezer zone 102 may
include a handle 110 in order to provide easy grip for opening.
[0040] Placed below the freezer zone 102 is combi-zone 106. The combi-zone 106
comprises a plurality of compartments, wherein the plurality of compartments may include a
first compartment 112 and a second compartment 114. The first compartment 112 includes a
door 126 mounted with a user interface 116 and a handle 120 for the user. The first
compartment 112 may be configured to perform either one of pasteurization and heating of milk.
Specifically, the user may select one of the tasks from pasteurization and heating of milk with
the help of the user interface 116. Pasteurization may be defined as the process of heating
food, which is usually liquid to a specific temperature for a predetermined length of time and
then immediately cooling it.
[0041] Adjoining, to the first compartment 112 lies the second compartment 114 of the
combi -zone 106. The second compartment 114 may be configured to have a separate door 128
other than the door 126. The door 128 of the second compartment 114 comprises a surface
mounted user interface 118 and a handle 122 for the user. The second compartment 114 may be
configured to perform either one of thawing and sterilization. Specifically, to perform the above
task user may have to select one of the tasks among thawing and sterilization via the user
interface 118. Thawing may be defined as the process of losing stiffness, numbness, or
impermeability by gradual warming. Wherein, sterilization may be process, physical or
chemical, that destroys or eliminates all micro-organisms and bacterial spores.
[0042] Having separate doors i.e., the door 126 of the first compartment 112 and the door
128 of the second compartment 114 may allow the user to operate first compartment 112 and the
second compartment 114 simultaneously. This simultaneous working of either compartments
may performed via the help of their individual user interfaces. In an embodiment, the user
interface 116 of the first compartment 112 and the user interface 118 of the second compartment
114 may be configured to allow the user to select a temperature or a time profile. In another
embodiment, the user interface 116 of the first compartment 112 and the user interface 118 of the
second compartment 114 may be configured to allow the user to select a customized temperature
or the time profile. With reference to the fig 1, the refrigeration system 100 may include the
refrigerator zone 104. The refrigerator zone 104 may include door 130, wherein the door 130
may include a handle 132. The refrigerator zone 104 may be placed below the combi-zone 106.
In an example, the refrigerator zone 104 may be placed at the bottom position of the refrigeration
system 100 The refrigerator zone 104 may be utilized for storage of different food items.
[0043] Fig 2a – Fig 2c represent the perspective view of the refrigeration system 200.
With reference to fig 2a – 2c the refrigeration system 200 may be configured to have a breadth
“B”. The length L and the breadth B of the refrigeration system 200 may define the capacity of
the refrigeration system 200. In an example, the capacity of the refrigeration system 200 may be
in liters. Specifically in an embodiment, the capacity of the refrigeration system 200 may be
variable. As shown in fig 2a the refrigeration system 200 may include a freezer zone 202, a
combi zone 204 and a refrigerator zone 206. The refrigeration system 200 may be configured to
place the combi zone 204 below the freezer zone 202 but above the refrigerator zone 206.
[0044] Further, as shown in fig. 2b the placement of the compartments of the
refrigeration system 200 may be varied in comparison to fig 2a. In an embodiment, as shown in
fig 2b the combi zone 204 may be placed above the freezer zone 202, wherein the refrigerator
zone 206 may be placed below the freezer zone 202. Further in another embodiment, as shown
in fig 2c the combi-zone 204 may be placed below the refrigerator zone 206, wherein the freezer
zone 202 may be placed over the refrigerator zone 206. The change is position of the combi
zone 204 with respect to the other compartments do not affect the working of the either
compartments of the refrigeration system 200.
[0045] Fig 3a represents the refrigeration system 300 showing the combi-zone 106 of the
refrigeration system 300 in an open position. As represented in the Fig 3a the combi-zone 106
may be configured to include a plurality of compartments. Specifically in an example, the
plurality of compartment may include the first compartment 112 with the door 126 and the
second compartment 114 with the door 128. The door 126 of the first compartment 112 may be
configured with a surface mounted user interface 116. The door 126 of the first compartment
112 may be configured to open in one of downwards, upwards, sideways and like directions.
Specifically in an example, the door 126 of the first compartment 112 may be configured to open
in downward position for optimal space utilization. The first compartment 112 of the combizone
106 may be utilized for one of pasteurization and heating of milk. Specifically, the first
compartment 112 of the combi-zone 106 may be configured to perform one of pasteurization and
heating of milk at single point of time.
[0046] As disclosed in fig. 3a, adjoining to first compartment 112, the second
compartment 114 of the refrigeration system 300 may be configured to have the separate surface
mounted user interface 118 over the surface of the door 128 of the second compartment 114.
The door 128 of the second compartment 114 may be designed to open in one of downwards,
upwards, sideways and like directions. Specifically in an example, the door 128 of the second
compartment 114 may be configured to open in downward position for optimal space utilization.
The second compartment 114 of the refrigeration system 300 may be utilized for one of thawing
and sterilization of the food. Specifically, the second compartment 114 may be configured to
perform one of thawing and sterilization of food at a single point of time.
[0047] With reference to fig. 3a the refrigeration system 300, the first compartment 112
and the second compartment 114 of the combi-zone 106 may be configured to be identical in
shape and size. To separate first compartment 112 from the second compartment 114 an
insulated wall 302 be used. The insulated wall 302 may be planted in between the first
compartment 112 and the second compartment 114. In an example, the insulated wall 302 may
be composed of PU foam. The insulated wall 302 may thus allow first compartment 112 and the
second compartment 114 to work independent of each other. In an example, the insulated wall
302 may allow first compartment 112 and the second compartment 114 to work simultaneously.
[0048] To make the first compartment 112 and second compartment 114 operate
simultaneously the user may use the individual user interface. In an example, the user interface
116 of the first compartment 112 and the user interface 118 of the second compartment 114 may
allow user to select task simultaneously for the first compartment 112 and the second
compartment 114 of the combi-zone 106 respectively. Specifically in an example, the user
interface 116 of the first compartment 112 and the user interface 118 of the second compartment
114 may allow user to select one of time, temperature and like profiles separately for the first
compartment 112 and the second compartment 114 of the combi-zone 106.
[0049] As shown in fig. 3b the combi-zone 106 comprises of an inner wall 304 and an
outer wall 306, wherein the walls may be composed of high impact polystyrene (HIPS)
surrounded by foam. The inner wall 304 and the outer wall 306 may include a space 318 in
between. The space 318 may be filled with an insulated material, wherein the insulated material
may acts as an insulator between different zones. In an example, the space 318 may be filled
using polyurethane (PU) foam. The insulating material of space 318 may be configured to keep
combi-zone 106 insulated from freezer zone 102 and refrigerator zone 104. Further, the inner
wall 304 is configured to attach the insulated wall 302 to it, wherein the insulated wall 302 may
further separate first compartment 112 from the second compartment 114. The separation of the
two compartments of the combi-zone 106 may help the user to operate the first compartment 112
and the second compartment 114 simultaneously.
[0050] In order to fulfill the cooling needs the combi-zone 106 may need to have a
cooling source. To facilitate combi-zone 106 with cooling needs, the top surface of the outer wall
306 of the combi-zone 106 may be configured to include a plurality of opening. The plurality of
opening may include a first opening 308 and a second opening 310. The first opening 308 may
be configured to allow the passage of the cold air from the freezer zone 102 (not shown in the
figure) to the first compartment 112, wherein the second opening 310 may be configured to
allow the passage of cold air from the freezer zone 102 (not shown in figure) to the second
compartment 114. The first opening 308 and the second opening 310 may be controlled via a
damper mechanism, wherein the damper mechanism being configured to control flow of cool air.
[0051] Fig 3c illustrates the damper mechanism for the either of the compartment of the
combi-zone 106. The damper mechanism may include a motor 312, a sliding damper 314 and a
combination of rack and pinion 316 to control the movement of the sliding damper 314. The
flow of cold air inside the first compartment 112 and the second compartment 114 may be
controlled via the temperature sensors (not shown) installed within. In an embodiment, the
sensors (not shown) may be thermocouple mounted on the floor and sides of the combi-zone
106. The sensors may be configured to controls the motor 312, wherein the motor 312 may be
responsible for the open and close state of the first opening 308 and second opening 310. The
motor 312 may be attached to the sliding damper 314 via the rack and pinion 316 mechanism. In
an embodiment, to control the flow of cold air in either of the compartments, the sensor may be
configured to sense the temperature and activate the motor 312. The motor 312 further is
configured to move the sliding damper 314 with the help of rack and pinion mechanism 316.
Specifically in an embodiment, the motor 312 may be activated via the temperature sensor (not
shown) based on the temperature inside the compartments. Further, the motor 312 may be
configured to move the rack and pinion 316, it in either direction. This to and fro movement of
the rack and pinion 316 is responsible to control the movement of the sliding damper 314, to
open and close the first opening 308 and the second opening 310 of the combi-zone 106.
[0052] Fig. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of first compartment 400, wherein the first
compartment 400 may include a heating source and a cooling source. With reference to fig. 4
the first compartment 400 may include a door 406 with a surface mounted user interface 408, a
handle 410, an opening 412 for entry of cold air in the first compartment 400 and a plurality of
heating source. The plurality of heating source may include at least one of an infrared rays
emitter 402, a microwave emitter 404 To perform uniform heating the infrared rays emitter 402
and the microwave emitter 404 may be mounted on the top surface of the first compartment 400.
The first compartment 400 may further include an ultra violet rays emitter 414 for sterilization.
The first compartment 400 may include infrared rays emitter 402, and the microwave emitter 404
to perform one of pasteurization and heating of milk, wherein the ultra violet rays emitter 414
may be configured to perform sterlization.
[0053] In an embodiment, the infra-red rays emitter 402, may be composed of a quartz
tube filled with halogen gas. Further, the infra-red emitter 402 may include a tungsten thread for
generating near-infra-red rays for a range of wavelength 2,500 nm to 750 nm. In another
embodiment, the microwave emitter 404 may include a magnetron for heating. The microwave
emitter 404 may be configured to produce wavelengths ranging from 1mm to 30 cm. Under low
temperature and longtime pasteurization method the either of the infra-red rays from infra-red
rays emitter 402 and microwaves from microwave emitter 404 may be configured heat the milk
for a temperature ranging from 58 to 68 degree Celsius for time duration of 30 minutes.
Specifically, the milk under low temperature and longtime pasteurization may be heated to 63
degree Celsius for 30 minutes. .
[0054] Firstly to perform pasteurization of milk in the first compartment 400. The milk
in a pot may be kept in the first compartment 400 for pasteurization and door 406 is closed. The
user may than select one of pasteurization and heating of milk via the user interface 408.
Specifically, the user may select the option of pasteurization via the user interface 408 to perform
pasteurization. Selecting pasteurization via the user interface 408 may activate infra-red rays
emitter 402 inside the first compartment 400. In an example, selecting pasteurization via user
interface 408 may activate infra-red rays emitter 402. The infra-red rays emitter 402 may start
heating the milk to a specific temperature in given span of time. In an embodiment, the user
interface 408 of the first compartment 400 may allow a user to select at least one of temperature
or time profile to heat the milk. The heating of milk may be sensed by the sensors (not shown)
placed in the first compartment 400. The sensors may be configured to sense the temperature of
the milk to selected value. In an example, the heating temperature may be the temperature
selected by the user via the user interface 408. Once, the milk is heated for one of the selected
temperature or time the sensors (not shown) may be configured to activate the motor 312. The
motor 312 may thus allow the sliding damper 314 to slide open the first opening 412, wherein
the movement of the sliding damper 314 and the motor 312 may be connected via the rack and
pinion 316 mechanism.
[0055] As the first opening 312 gets opened cold air from freezer compartment 102 may
enter the first compartment 400. The cold air from the freezer compartment 102 fills the first
compartment 400. The entry of continuous cold air from the first opening 412 may allow the
milk to cool to the required temperature in given span of time. In an embodiment, the cold air
ranging from -8 to -18 degree Celsius may be allowed to enter the first compartment 400 via the
first opening 412. The amount of cooling required in the first compartment 400 may be
controlled by the sensors (not shown). Specifically, the cold air from the freezer compartment
102 may allow the milk to cool down to a temperature ranging from 0-4 degree celsius. In an
embodiment, the sensors and the user interface 408 may be interconnected, wherein the user
interface 408 may be configured with at least one of predetermined temperature and time profile
for the pasteurization of milk. In another example, the microwave emitter 404 may be
configured as a heating source. In case the microwave emitter 404 is used for pasteurization the
other heating source i.e. infrared rays emitter 402 may configured to be in an inactive state.
[0056] Further, in another embodiment, the ultraviolet rays emitter 414 may be
configured inside the first compartment 400 to perform pasteurization. The ultraviolet rays
emitter 414 may use an ultra violet light of range 242 nm to 252 nm for pasteurization.
Specifically in an embodiment, the ultraviolet rays emitter 414 may produce ultraviolet light of
248 nm. In order to generate light of the particular wavelength the ultra violet rays emitter 414
may utilize a pulsed excimer laser to produce ultraviolet light of 248 nm, wherein the Ultra violet
rays of 248 nm are competent enough to kill microorganisms present in the milk. In order to
perform pasteurization using the ultraviolet rays emitter 414, the cooling source may not be
required.
[0057] Secondly, the first compartment 400 may further be configured to perform heating
of milk. In order to perform heating of milk, the user may have to select heating via the user
interface 408. Selecting heating via the user interface 408 may activate one of infrared rays
emitter 402, and the microwave emitter 404. In an embodiment, the infrared rays emitter 402
may be configured heat the milk. In case, the infrared rays emitter 402 gets activated the,
microwave emitter 404 and the ultraviolet rays emitter 414 may be configured to be inactive.
[0058] Selecting heating option via the user interface 408 may allow the user to enter the
temperature for which heating may be required. The user interface 408 may be configured to
allow the user to select temperature ranging from 25 degree celsius to 50 degree celsius for
heating of milk.
[0059] Once, the required temperature for heating is entered via user interface 408, one
of the the infrared rays emitter 402, and the microwave emitter 404 may start heating the milk.
In an example, the ultraviolet rays emitter 414 may remain inactive during heating process. In an
another example, the infrared rays emitter 402 and the microwave emitter 404 may be configured
to perform heating. Further, heating of the milk may be confirmed via the sensors (not shown)
placed inside the first compartment 400. The sensor (not shown) may sense the temperature of
the milk once it reaches to the selected point. In an example, the sensor and the user interface
408 may be interconnected. Further, the opening 412 of the first compartment 400 may be
configured to remain closed during the heating of milk. As the opening 412 of the first
compartment 400 may be configured to remain closed during heating of milk, no cold air may be
entered into the first compartment 400 and heating of the milk may be achieved in desired time.
[0060] Fig. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of second compartment 500, wherein the
second compartment 500 may include a heating source and a cooling source. The second
compartment 500 may include a door 506 with a surface mounted user interface 508, a handle
510, an opening 512 for entry of cold air in the second compartment 500. The second
compartment may include a plurality of heating source. The plurality of heating source may
include at least one of a microwave emitter 502, and a condenser tube 514. To cause uniform
heating in the second compartment 500, one of the microwave emitter 502 and the condenser
tube 514 may be mounted on the top surface of the second compartment 500. Wherein, the
second compartment 500 may include microwave emitter 502, ultraviolet ray’s emitter 504 and
the condenser tube 514 to perform one of thawing and sterilization.
[0061] In an example, the second compartment 500 may be configured to perform one of
thawing and sterilization at a time. The second compartment 500 may be configured to perform
thawing, wherein thawing may be performed via one of microwave rays emitter 502 and the
condenser tube 514. Thawing may be a process of losing stiffness, numbness, or impermeability
of particularly a food by gradual warming. To perform thawing via the microwave rays emitter
502 the frozen food may be kept inside the second compartment 500. The user interface 508 of
the second compartment 500 may be configured to allow user to select one of thawing and
sterilization. Specifically, the user may select thawing option via the user interface 508 to
perform thawing, Selecting the option of thawing may allow the user to select a temperature.
The user interface 508 of the second compartment may be configured to allow the user to select a
temperature from a range of 5-35 degree celsius. Once the user enters the temperature, the
microwave rays emitter 502 gets activated. In an embodiment, the ultraviolet rays emitter 504
may remain inactivated during the process of thawing.
[0062] The microwave rays emitter 502 may start emitting the microwaves rays so as to
attain the desired temperature required for thawing. Thawing may be a process where
temperature must be raised gradually. Further to ensure the gradual change of temperature the
opening 512 may be kept open. The opening 512 of the second compartment 500 may allow the
cold air from the freezer zone 102 to enter the second compartment 500. In an embodiment, to
achieve the selected temperature inside the second compartment 500, the cold air from opening
512 and microwave rays via microwave rays emitter 502 operate simultaneously over the food.
Further, a plurality of sensor (not shown) may be installed inside the second compartment 500.
The sensor (not shown) may be configured to sense the temperature inside the second chamber
500. Once the temperature of the second compartment 500 reaches the desired, the sensor (not
shown) may be configured to activate the motor 312. The motor 312 may than allow the sliding
damper 314 to close the opening 512, to stop the flow of cold air inside the second compartment
500. Once the flow of cold air is stopped, the microwave emitter may get closed after the user
interface 508 indicates completion of thawing. In an embodiment, the user may require to thaw
food at 0 degree to 35 degree Celsius. To perform thawing, user may select the microwave rays
emitter 502 for heating purpose. Selecting microwave rays emitter 502 may allow microwave
rays to fall on food, at this stage opening 512 may be open completely and cold air may continue
to enter in full volume, wherein keeping the opening 512 open may allow the temperature of the
second compartment 500 to reach 0 to 1 degree. The opening 512 may be configured to close by
certain distance and flow of cold air to decrease accordingly. The process may be allowed to
continue, till food reaches 35 degree, wherein the temperature may be sensed by the sensors.
[0063] In another embodiment, the process of thawing may be performed via the
condenser tube 514. The condense tube 514 may be a part of the condenser tube attached at the
back of the refrigerator 100 . In an example, a part of the condenser tube configured to act as
heat exchanger for the refrigerator 100 may be configured to be bent and passed through the top
surface of the second chamber 500. The user may select thawing via the user interface 508.
Once the user selects thawing, the user interface 508 may be configured to allow the user to
select a temperature ranging from 5-35 degree celcius. Further to perform thawing in the second
compartment 500 may require a gradual change of temperature. The slow and steady increase of
temperature inside the second compartment 500 may be achieved by allowing cold air from the
freezer compartment 102 to enter the second compartment 500 simultaneously. To allow the
passage of cold air inside the second compartment 500 the opening 512 may be kept open. In
order to keep a check on the selected temperature inside the second compartment 500 plurality of
sensors (not shown) may be installed inside. The sensors may be configured to sense the
temperature inside the second compartment 500 continuously. As the temperature inside the
second compartment 500 reaches the selected value the sensor may send a signal to the motor
312 to close the opening 512.
[0064] With reference to fig. 5 the second compartment 500 may be configured to
include an ultraviolet rays emitter 504, wherein the ultra violet rays emitter 504 may be
configured to perform sterilization of baby food. Sterilization is a process, physical or chemical,
that destroys or eliminates all micro-organisms and bacterial spores. Specifically in an
embodiment, during sterilization of the baby food ultraviolet rays emitter 504 may be configured
to be active. In another embodiment, during the process of sterilization either of the heating
sources from the microwave emitter 502 and condenser tube 514 employed inside the second
compartment 500 may be configured to be inactive.
[0065] In order to perform the process of sterilization of the baby food, the baby food
may be kept inside the second compartment 500. The user may than has to select the option of
sterilization via the user interface 508, wherein selecting sterilization may activate ultra violet
rays emitter 504. For sterilization the ultraviolet rays emitter 504 may emit short-wave
ultraviolet light. In an example, the short-wave ultraviolet light emitted by the ultraviolet rays
emitter 504 may be of range of 250 nm to 260 nm. Specifically in an example, the ultraviolet
rays emitter 504 may emit short-wave ultraviolet light of 254 nm. To perform sterilization the
second compartment 500 may be required to maintain a particular selected temperature. The
temperature inside the second compartment 500 may be maintained by flow of cold air through
the opening 512. The second compartment may further be installed with plurality of sensors (not
shown), wherein the sensor may be configured to control the flow of cold air inside the second
compartment which in turn is controlled via the motor 312 and attached sliding damper 314.
[0066] Fig 6A shows a front view of a refrigeration system 600. The refrigeration
system 600 may include a freezer zone 602 comprising an evaporator cover 604, a duct 608 for
carrying cold air from freezer zone 602 to a comi-zone 610 and a fan 606 for directing flow of
cold air into the duct 608. An evaporator may play an important role in the refrigeration system
600. It is where the heat transfer and cooling effect takes place. The evaporator may be called as
a heat exchanger, since it absorbs the heat that passes through or in contact with it which literally
drop its surrounding temperature. The heat absorbed from the evaporator is being discharged to
ambient by the condensing unit through heat pump or compressor (not shown in figure). The
evaporator cover 604 cools the air passing through it. Behind the evaporator cover 604, the fan
606 may be installed. The fan 606 may be configured to push the cold air from the freezer zone
602 into the duct 608. The duct 608 may be designed to circulate cold air to the combi-zone 610.
[0067] As shown in fig. 6B the duct 608 may include a plurality of end. The plurality of
end may include a first end 612, a second end 614 and a lumen 616 defined along the length of
the first end 612 and second end 614. The first end 612 of the duct 608 may be configured to
include a single opening. The single opening of the duct 608 may be designed to collect
maximum volume of cold air from the fan 606. The cold air collected at the first end 612 may
than be allowed to pass through the lumen 616 of the duct 608 to the second end 614 of the duct
608. The second end 614 of the duct 608 may be configured to have plurality of openings,
wherein one of the plurality of openings may be configured to be attached to the first opening
308 of the first compartment 112 and the other to the second opening 310 of the second
compartment 114. In an embodiment, the cold air from the freezer zone may be carried to the
first compartment 112 and the second compartment 114 via the duct 608. Specifically in an
embodiment, the plurality of openings of the duct 608 at the second end 614 may be configured
to assist in uniform spreading of cold air for the first compartment 112 and the second
compartment 114 of the combi-zone 610. The duct 608 may be configured to run through the
freezer zone 602 to the combi-zone 610. Specifically in an embodiment, the duct 608 may be
placed behind (not shown) evaporator cover 604 of the freezer zone 602.
[0068] Fig 7A to 7C represent shows cross-sectional view of refrigeration system 700.
With respect to fig. 7A to 7C the refrigeration system 700 may include a freezer zone 702, a
combi-zone 704 and a refrigerator zone 706. According to an embodiment the refrigeration the
freezer zone 702 may be configured to include an inner wall 708 and an outer wall 710. In an
example, the inner wall 708 may be known as linear. The inner wall 708 and the outer wall 710
may include a space 712 in between. The inner wall 708 of the freezer zone 702 may be defined
by the evaporator cover. In an embodiment, the term inner wall 708, liner and the evaporator
cover may be used interchangeably. The fan 606 may be attached to the linear 708 of the freezer
zone 702. The fan 606 is purposely attached to carry the cold air from the freezer zone 702 to the
combi zone 704. The cold air may be carried via a duct 714. The duct 714 may be placed inside
the space 712 between the evaporator cover 708 and the outer wall 710. The duct 704 may
configured to carry the cold air from the freezer zone 702 to the combi-zone 704. The duct 714
may be prepaired of an insulated material, wherein the insulated material may allow the cold air
inside to remain at same temperature.

We Claim:
1. A multi-functional refrigeration system, comprising:
a refrigerator zone;
a freezer zone; and
a combi zone, characterized by a plurality of compartments, wherein the plurality
of compartments comprising:
a first compartment configured to perform either one of pasteurization and
heating; and
a second compartment configured to perform either one of thawing and
sterilization.
2. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first compartment is provided
with a heating and a cooling source.
3. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second compartment is
provided with a heating and a cooling source.
4. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 2, wherein the heating source comprises one
of Infra-red emitter and microwave emitter.
5. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 3, wherein the heating source comprises at
least one of Infra-red emitter, microwave emitter and condenser tubes.
6. The refrigeration system as claimed in claims 2 or 3, wherein the cooling source is
provided with an opening, said opening carrying cool air from the freezer zone into the
first and the second compartments via a duct.
7. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 6, wherein the opening is controlled via a
damper mechanism, said damper mechanism being configured to control flow of cool air.
8. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the freezer zone is provided with
a fan for directing flow of cool air into the duct.
9. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first compartment is provided
with a UV source, said UV source being configured to pasteurize a food item kept inside.
10. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second compartment is
provided with a UV source, said UV source being configured to sterilize a food item kept
inside.
11. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first compartment and the
second compartment are provided with independent user interfaces.
12. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 11, wherein the user interface of first
compartment is configured to allow a user to select either between pasteurization and
heating.
13. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 11, wherein the user interface of second
compartment is configured to allow a user to select either between thawing and
sterilization.
14. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 11, wherein the user interface of either of
the compartments allows a user to select a temperature or a time profile.
15. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 11, wherein the user interface of either of
the compartments allows a user to select a customized temperature or a time profile for
select foods.
16. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 11, wherein the user interface of either of
the compartments allows a user to select UV source for pasteurizing and sterilizing a food
item kept inside the respective compartments.
17. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first compartment and the
second compartment can operate simultaneously.
18. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the combi-zone is placed
between the refrigerator zone and the freezer zone.
19. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the combi-zone is placed above
the freezer zone, said freezer zone placed above the refrigerator zone.
20. The refrigeration system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the combi-zone is placed below
the refrigerator zone, said refrigerator zone placed below the freezer zone.