Refrigerated Point-of-Use Holding Cabinet Using Chilled Liquid

摘要

A refrigerated point-of-use food holding cabinet keeps food products cold in compartments having cross sections that are substantially U-shaped. Food products are kept refrigerated using heat-absorbing, heat-exchangers thermally coupled to the U-shaped compartment. Refrigeration is provided by a chilled, re-circulating liquid that does not change phase as it circulates but which is chilled by another refrigeration system, such as a conventional refrigeration system. An optional cover helps prevent food flavor transfers between compartments. Semiconductor temperature sensors and a computer effectuate temperature control.

主权项

1. A refrigerated food holding cabinet comprising:
a first tray receiving member having a bottom, first and second side opposing walls that extend upwardly from the bottom, and first and second opposing open ends, the first tray receiving member defining a cavity in which food or a food holding tray can be placed through either of the first and second opposing open ends; and a refrigeration system comprising:
a first heat exchanger coil, at least a portion of which is attached to the first tray receiving member;a chilled working fluid, which circulates through the first heat exchanger coil, the chilled working fluid being a liquid that does not change phase as it circulates, the first heat exchanger and chilled working fluid flowing there through being configured to conduct heat energy away from the first tray receiving member and thereby conduct heat energy away from a food holding tray or food item placed on the bottom of the first tray receiving member.