Patent Publication Number: US-11644229-B2

Title: Cooling assembly for refrigerator appliance

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims priority to and the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/966,643, filed on Jan. 28, 2020, entitled COOLING ASSEMBLY FOR REFRIGERATOR APPLIANCE, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF DISCLOSURE 
     The present disclosure generally relates to a cooling assembly for a refrigerator appliance, and more specifically, to a cooling assembly with a fan assembly for selectively directing air into a compartment of a refrigerator appliance. 
     BACKGROUND 
     A refrigerator appliance traditionally defines compartments for storing food at various temperatures. Where the appliance includes more than one compartment, a single cooling assembly may be used to cool the compartments. In order to provide flexibility in the use of various compartments, it may be desired to provide varying amounts of cooled air to each of the various compartments. 
     SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a cooling assembly for a refrigerator appliance includes a housing that defines an inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet. The first outlet is defined opposite the second outlet. A fan is positioned within the housing. The fan is configured to direct cooled air through the inlet and toward the first and second outlets. A damper assembly is configured to rotate between a first position and a second position. The damper assembly includes a rim coupled with a plurality of gear teeth. The plurality of gear teeth are positioned circumferentially about, and extend radially from, the rim. A sidewall extends from a surface of the rim and extends circumferentially about a portion of a circumference of the rim. An actuator includes an actuation gear configured to be engaged with the plurality of gear teeth. The actuation gear is configured to rotate the damper assembly between the first and second positions, including intermediate positions. 
     According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a cooling assembly for a refrigerator appliance includes a housing defining an inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet. The first outlet is defined distal from the second outlet. A fan is positioned within the housing. The fan is configured to direct cooled air through the inlet and toward the first and second outlets. A damper assembly is configured to selectively obstruct one of the first and second outlets by rotating between a first position and a second position. The damper assembly includes a first damper that has a first plurality of gear teeth extending from a first rim and a first sidewall that extends from the first rim parallel with the first plurality of gear teeth. A second damper has a second plurality of gear teeth extending from a second rim and a second sidewall that extends from the second rim parallel with the second plurality of gear teeth. The first and second dampers are positioned such that the first plurality of gear teeth extend towards the second plurality of gear teeth. 
     According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a refrigerator appliance includes a cabinet that defines first and second compartments. A fan assembly is configured to direct cooled air from a cooling assembly into the first and second compartments. The fan assembly includes a housing that defines an inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet. The first outlet is in communication with the first compartment, and the second outlet is in communication with the second compartment. A fan is positioned within the housing and is configured to direct the cooled air from the inlet toward the first and second outlets. A damper assembly is configured to obstruct, or selectively obstruct, one of the first outlet and the second outlet. 
     These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following specification, claims, and appended drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In the drawings: 
         FIG.  1    is a front perspective view of a refrigerator appliance, according to various examples; 
         FIG.  2    is a cross-sectional view of the refrigerator appliance of  FIG.  1    taken along line II-II and illustrating a cooling assembly; 
         FIG.  3    is an enlarged view of the cooling assembly of  FIG.  2    including a fan assembly; 
         FIG.  4    is a top perspective view of a fan assembly with a top portion of a housing removed, according to various examples; 
         FIG.  5 A  is a first side perspective view of the fan assembly of  FIG.  4    with a damper positioned so that a first outlet is unobstructed; 
         FIG.  5 B  is a first side perspective view of the fan assembly of  FIG.  4    with a damper positioned so that a first outlet is obstructed; 
         FIG.  5 C  is a second side perspective view of the fan assembly of  FIG.  4    with a damper positioned so that a second outlet is partially obstructed; 
         FIG.  6    is a schematic control diagram of the fan assembly of  FIG.  4   ; 
         FIG.  7    is a top perspective view of a fan assembly, according to various examples; 
         FIG.  8    is an exploded view of the fan assembly of  FIG.  7   ; 
         FIG.  9 A  is a first side elevation view of the fan assembly of  FIG.  7    with a damper assembly in a first position; 
         FIG.  9 B  is a second side elevation view of the fan assembly of  FIG.  7    with a damper assembly in a first position; 
         FIG.  10 A  is a first side elevation view of the fan assembly of  FIG.  7    with a damper assembly in a second position; 
         FIG.  10 B  is a second side elevation view of the fan assembly of  FIG.  7    with a damper assembly in a second position; 
         FIG.  11 A  is a first side elevation view of the fan assembly of  FIG.  7    with a damper assembly in an intermediate position; 
         FIG.  11 B  is a second side elevation view of the fan assembly of  FIG.  7    with a damper assembly in an intermediate position; 
         FIG.  12    is a schematic control diagram of the fan assembly of  FIG.  7   ; 
         FIG.  13    is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a cooling assembly including a fan assembly, according to various examples; 
         FIG.  14    is a top perspective view of a fan assembly, according to various examples; 
         FIG.  15   . is an exploded view of the fan assembly of  FIG.  14    with a cover portion removed; 
         FIG.  16 A  is a top profile view of the fan assembly of  FIG.  14    with a gear plate removed and a damper in a neutral position; 
         FIG.  16 B  is a top profile view of the fan assembly of  FIG.  14    with a damper positioned so that a first outlet is obstructed; 
         FIG.  16 C  is a top profile view of the fan assembly of  FIG.  14    with a damper positioned so that a second outlet is obstructed; 
         FIG.  17    is a schematic control diagram of the fan assembly of  FIG.  14   ; 
         FIG.  18    is a top perspective view of an evaporator of the cooling assembly of  FIG.  2   ; and 
         FIG.  19    is a schematic diagram of a cooling system including a fan assembly, according to various examples. 
     
    
    
     The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles described herein. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The present illustrated embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to a fan assembly for a refrigerator appliance. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Further, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements. 
     For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the disclosure as oriented in  FIG.  1   . Unless stated otherwise, the term “front” shall refer to the surface of the element closer to an intended viewer, and the term “rear” shall refer to the surface of the element further from the intended viewer. However, it is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. 
     The terms “including,” “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element proceeded by “comprises a . . . ” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  1 - 17   , reference numeral  10  generally designates a refrigerator appliance that includes a cabinet  12 . The cabinet  12  defines first and second compartments  14 ,  16 . A cooling assembly  18  is configured to provide cooled air  20  to the first and second compartments  14 ,  16 . A fan assembly  22 ,  22   a ,  22   b  is configured to direct the cooled air  20  into the first and second compartments  14 ,  16 . The fan assembly  22 ,  22   a ,  22   b  includes a housing  24  that defines an inlet  26 , a first outlet  28 , and a second outlet  30 . The first outlet  28  is in communication with the first compartment  14 , and the second outlet  30  is in communication with the second compartment  16 . A fan  32  is positioned within the housing  24  and is configured to direct the cooled air  20  through the inlet  26  and through the first and second outlets  28 ,  30 . A damper assembly  34  is configured to selectively obstruct one of the first outlet  28  and the second outlet  30 . The damper assembly  34  includes a sidewall  36  extending circumferentially about a rim  38 . The rim  38  includes a plurality of gear teeth  40 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  1  and  2   , the refrigerator appliance  10  includes a wrapper  50  forming an exterior of the refrigerator appliance  10 , a first compartment liner  52 , and a second compartment liner  54 . One or more first doors  56  are configured to provide access to and seal the first compartment  14 , and a second door  58  is configured to provide access to and selectively seal the second compartment  16 . A mullion  60  may be disposed between the first compartment liner  52  and the second compartment liner  54 . In various examples, the mullion  60  may be configured to at least partially house the cooling assembly  18 . 
     Each of the first and second compartments  14 ,  16  may be configured to be used as one of a refrigeration compartment for storing fresh food items and a freezer compartment, and may be positioned in any arrangement. For example, as illustrated, the first and second compartments  14 ,  16  may be arranged in a bottom mount configuration with the first compartment  14  positioned above the second compartment  16  and configured to act as a refrigeration compartment while the second compartment  16  acts as a freezer compartment. However, it will be understood that any configuration of first and second compartments  14 ,  16  may be used, including but not limited to, side-by-side refrigerator/freezers, top-mount freezers, etc. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure are therefore not intended to be limited to any particular type and/or configuration of the refrigerator appliance  10 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  2   , a cross-section of the refrigerator appliance  10  is illustrated to reveal the first compartment  14  and the second compartment  16 , which are separated by the mullion  60 . As illustrated, a number of shelves  64  and/or storage bins  66  may be disposed in the first compartment  14 . It is contemplated that the shelves  64  and bins  66  may also be disposed in the second compartment  16  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. It is further contemplated that the shelves  64  and bins  66  may be adjustable based on the configuration of the first and second compartments  14 ,  16 . 
     Referring again to  FIGS.  1  and  2   , the wrapper  50 , the first compartment liner  52 , and the second compartment liner  54  are in a spaced-apart configuration forming the first compartment  14  and the second compartment  16 . In the spaced-apart configuration, the wrapper  50  and the first and second compartment liners  52 ,  54  define a space  70  therebetween configured to house insulation. 
     The appliance  10  further includes the cooling assembly  18  configured to generate cooled air  20  to chill the first and second compartments  14 ,  16 . The cooling assembly  18  may be configured to maintain the first and second compartments  14 ,  16  of the appliance  10  at a predetermined temperature. The cooling assembly  18  may include at least an evaporator  78 , a compressor  80 , a condenser  82 , and a multi-directional valve  86 . These and any other components of the cooling assembly  18  may be arranged and interconnected in a standard configuration for such components. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  2  and  3   , the mullion  60  may define a channel  72  between the first and second compartment liners  52 ,  54 . The channel  72  may be in communication with an inlet  62  defined by the second compartment liner  54  and may be configured to house the evaporator  78  of the cooling assembly  18 . The fan assembly  22  is positioned proximate an outlet  68  of the channel  72 . When actuated, the fan assembly  22  may be configured to pull air across the evaporator  78  to create cooled air  20 . The cooled air  20  is pulled or directed into the housing  24  of the fan assembly  22  through the inlet  26  of the housing  24 . The fan  32  directs the cooled air  20  through one or both of the first and second outlets  28 ,  30  of the housing  24  by the fan  32  and into one or both of the first and second compartments  14 ,  16 . 
     The fan  32  is positioned within the housing  24  of the fan assembly  22 , and the housing  24  is operably coupled with first and second connector passages  74 ,  76  to guide the cooled air  20  from the first and second outlets  28 ,  30  of the housing  24  and into the first and second compartments  14 ,  16 . The fan  32  is configured to pull the cooled air  20  from the cooling assembly  18  through the channel  72  and to direct the cooled air  20  into one or both of the first connector passage  74  that is in communication with the first compartment  14  and a second connector passage  76  that is in communication with the second compartment  16 . As illustrated, the fan assembly  22  and the connector passages  74 ,  76  are positioned rearward of the first and second compartment liners  52 ,  54 . However, it is contemplated that the fan assembly  22  and the connector passages  74 ,  76  may be positioned in any location of the refrigerator appliance  10  to allow the fan assembly  22  to direct the cooled air  20  from the channel  72  and into the first and second compartments  14 ,  16 , as needed. It is further contemplated that the fan assembly  22  may be positioned to provide the cooled air  20  directly to the first and second compartments  14 ,  16  without the use of the connector passages  74 ,  76  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  4 - 5 C , the fan assembly  22  is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment. As introduced above, the fan assembly  22  includes the housing  24  configured to house the fan  32  and the damper assembly  34 . The housing  24  defines the inlet  26 , the first outlet  28 , and the second outlet  30 . As illustrated, the housing  24  may have a generally rectilinear shape. However, it will be understood that the housing  24  may alternatively have a circular, oblong, triangular shape, or may have any other cross-sectional shape that can be used to house the fan assembly  22  and the damper assembly  34  to direct cooled air  20  to the compartments  14 ,  16 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  4   , the housing  24  includes a base portion  90  and a cover portion  92 . The base portion  90  is configured as a plate that has an inner surface  94  and that defines one or more receiving wells  96 . In various examples, the one or more receiving wells  96  may be defined flush with the inner surface  94  of the base portion  90 . In other examples, the one or more receiving wells  96  may be defined by raised portions  100  extending from the inner surface  94 . The raised portions  100  may be configured to at least partially space apart the base portion  90  and the cover portion  92  when the housing  24  is assembled. 
     The base portion  90  may include a first pair of offsets  104  and a second pair of offsets  106 . The first and second pairs of offsets  104 ,  106  extend from the inner surface  94  of the base portion  90 . When the base portion  90  is coupled with the cover portion  92 , the first pair of offsets  104  is positioned to frame the first outlet  28  of the housing  24 , and the second pair of offsets  106  is positioned to frame the second outlet  30  of the housing  24 . The first and second pairs of offsets  104 ,  106  may be configured to at least partially space apart the base portion  90  and the cover portion  92  when the housing  24  is assembled. In various examples, the first and second pairs of offsets  104 ,  106  may also be configured to align the damper assembly  34  and/or the fan  32  within the housing  24 . 
     A damper guide  110  extends from the inner surface  94  of the base portion  90 . The damper guide  110  is configured to align the fan  32  and the damper assembly  34  within the housing  24 . The damper guide  110  includes one or more arcuate portions  112  positioned circumferentially about a center axis X of the housing  24 . The one or more arcuate portions  112  may be spaced apart so that the arcuate portions  112  define gaps that are generally aligned with the first and second offsets  104 ,  106 . The damper guide  110  may further include a track  116  defined by the inner surface  94  of the base portion  90  and defined to extend circumferentially about an exterior of the arcuate portions  112 . The track  116  of the damper guide  110  is also defined to be concentrically and axially aligned with the central axis X of the housing  24 . 
     The base portion  90  may further include a mount  120  configured to support one or both of an actuator  124  and an actuation gear  126 . For example, the mount  120  may be configured to support the actuator  124  which in turn supports the actuation gear  126 . Alternatively, the mount  120  may be configured to support the actuation gear  126 , and the actuator  124  may be coupled with the inner surface  94  of the base portion  90 . The actuator  124  and the actuation gear  126  are positioned proximate the damper guide  110 , and the actuation gear  126  is configured to engage with the damper assembly  34 , as discussed elsewhere herein. 
     Referring still to  FIG.  4   , the cover portion  92  of the housing  24  includes a central wall  130  sized to complement the size and shape of the base portion  90 . The cover portion  92  further includes at least first and second sidewalls  132 ,  134  extending perpendicularly from opposing edges of the central wall  130 . The first sidewall  132  defines the first outlet  28 , and the second sidewall  134  defines the second outlet  30  such that the second outlet  30  is typically defined opposite the first outlet  28 . In various examples, the first and second outlets  28 ,  30  may be the same size and shape. In other examples, the first and second outlets  28 ,  30  may differ in size and shape. For example, the first outlet  28  may be larger than the second outlet  30 , or the second outlet  30  may be larger than the first outlet  28 . As illustrated, the first and second outlets  28 ,  30  may be substantially rectangular. However, it is contemplated that the first and second outlets  28 ,  30  may have any shape without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. When the cover portion  92  of the housing  24  is coupled with the base portion  90 , the first outlet  28  is aligned with the first offsets  104  and the second outlet  30  is aligned with the second offsets  106 . 
     The central wall  130  of the cover portion  92  defines one or more through-holes  138 . The one or more through-holes  138  are defined to align the one or more receiving wells  96  defined by the base portion  90  when the housing  24  is assembled. For example, the one or more through-holes  138  and the one or more receiving wells  96  may be positioned proximate corners of the base portion  90  and the cover portion  92 . Further, the one or more through-holes  138  may be defined by extended portions of the central wall  130  configured to abut the raised portions  100  of the base portion  90  to space apart the base portion  90  and the cover portion  92  when the housing  24  is assembled. 
     The central wall  130  of the cover portion  92  defines the inlet  26  of the housing  24 . The inlet  26  may be substantially circular and is axially aligned with the central axis X of the housing  24  and the fan  32 . The inlet  26  is defined to be the same size or smaller than the fan  32  and is sized to allow the fan  32  to pull the cooled air  20  ( FIGS.  2  and  3   ) through the inlet  26  into the housing  24 . The central axis X of the housing  24  passes through the inlet  26  and is typically configured to be perpendicular to a centerline extending through one or both of the first and second outlets  28 ,  30 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  4 - 5 C , the fan  32  is rotatably coupled with the base portion  90  and is positioned within the damper guide  110  of the housing  24  so as to rotate within the damper guide  110  about the central axis X of the housing  24 . The fan  32  includes a fan rim  144 , and a plurality of fins  146  extend outward from a center of the fan  32  toward the fan rim  144  in an arcuate and outwardly radial pattern, sometimes referred to as a “sunburst” pattern. The fan  32  is configured to pull or otherwise direct the cooled air  20  from the inlet  26  of the housing  24  and direct the air  20  through the at least one of first and second outlets  28 ,  30  of the housing  24 . It will be understood that the fan  32  may be conventionally operated by a motor and/or related electronics (e.g., a fan controller, a timer, etc.) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     The damper assembly  34  extends around the circumference of the fan  32  and is configured to rotate to selectively obstruct one or both of the first and second outlets  28 ,  30  of the housing  24 . The damper assembly  34  is also configured to rotate about the damper guide  110 . As illustrated, the damper assembly  34  may be positioned exterior of the damper guide  110 . However, it is contemplated that the damper assembly  34  may be positioned at least partially interior of the damper guide  110  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The damper assembly  34  includes a rim  38  that defines a plurality of gear teeth  40  that extend radially from the rim  38 . In various examples, the plurality of gear teeth  40  may be integrally formed with the rim  38 . In other examples, the plurality of gear teeth  40  may be integrally formed with a ring configured to be positioned about and/or coupled to the rim  38 . The plurality of gear teeth  40  may be defined circumferentially along at least part of the circumference of the rim  38 , and, in various examples, may be positioned along the entire circumference of the rim  38 . 
     As exemplified in  FIGS.  4 - 5 C , a sidewall  36  extends downward from the rim  38  and is slidably engaged with at least part of the damper guide  110 . For example, the sidewall  36  may be positioned in a close sliding relationship with one or both of the arcuate portions  112  of the damper guide  110 . The sidewall  36  extends circumferentially about a portion of the rim  38  of the damper assembly  34 . For example, the sidewall  36  may extend along a quart of the circumference of the rim  38 , along half the circumference of the rim  38 , along three-quarters of the circumference of the rim  38 , or any other fraction of the circumference of the rim  38  so that the sidewall  36  is at least large enough to cover one of the first and second outlets  28 ,  30 . 
     Referring again to  FIG.  4   , the actuator  124  is coupled with the base portion  90  of the housing  24  and may be any actuator  124  configured to rotate the actuation gear  126  (e.g., a motor). In various examples, a portion of the housing  24  may define an opening  150  configured to receive a plurality of electrical connectors  152  operably coupled with the actuator  124 . The actuation gear  126  is rotatably coupled with the actuator  124  and includes a plurality of actuation teeth  156  that are configured to be engaged with the plurality of gear teeth  40  of the damper assembly  34 . Rotation of the actuation gear  126  by the actuator  124  rotates the damper assembly  34  between first and second positions ( FIGS.  5 A- 5 C ). The actuation gear  126  is configured to be rotated in both a clockwise and counterclockwise direction to provide rotation of the damper assembly  34  in both a clockwise and counterclockwise direction between the first and second positions. 
     Referring again to  FIGS.  4 - 5 C , the actuation gear  126  is configured to rotate the damper assembly  34  between the first position ( FIG.  5 A ), the second position ( FIG.  5 B ), and any one of a plurality of intermediate positions ( FIG.  5 C ). When the damper assembly  34  is in the first position, the sidewall  36  is positioned to obstruct the first outlet  28 , and when the damper assembly  34  is in the second position, the sidewall  36  is positioned to obstruct the second outlet  30 . When the damper assembly  34  is in one of the first and second positions, the cooled air  20  is prevented from flowing through the respective outlet  28 ,  30  and cooled air  20  is prevented from moving into the respective compartment  14 ,  16  ( FIGS.  2  and  3   ). This allows one of the compartments  14 ,  16  to receive all of the cooled air  20  generated by the cooling assembly  18  ( FIGS.  2  and  3   ). When the damper assembly  34  is in one of the plurality of intermediate positions, the sidewall  36  partially obstructs one or both of the first and second outlets  28 ,  30 . In various examples, the obstruction of the first and second outlets  28 ,  30  may be proportional so that, for example, when one-quarter of one of the outlets  28 ,  30  is obstructed, three-quarters of the other outlet  28 ,  30  is obstructed. A first volume of the cooled air  20  is directed through the first outlet  28  and into the first compartment  14  and a second volume of the cooled air  20  is directed through the second outlet  30  and into the second compartment  16 . In this configuration, the damper assembly  34  can be positioned to allow for a predictable and repeatable apportionment of the cooled air  20  between the first and second outlets  28 ,  30  and, in turn, the first and second compartments  14 ,  16 . Alternatively, the damper assembly  34  may be configured to provide a non-proportional obstruction of each of the first and second outlets  28 ,  30 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  2 - 6   , a controller  160  is operably coupled with the actuator  124 . The controller  160  is configured to actuate the actuator  124  in response to input from a sensor (e.g., a temperature sensor  164 , a door sensor  166 , or any other sensor). The sensors  164 ,  166  may correspond with either of the first compartment  14  or the second compartment  16 . In various examples, each of the first and second compartments  14 ,  16  may include one or more separate sensors. Alternatively, the controller  160  may be configured to actuate the actuator  124  based on a timed sequence regulated by a timer  168  such that the actuator  124  rotates the damper assembly  34  at predetermined time intervals. The controller  160  may further be actuated in response to user input from a display  170 , or a user device  172  (e.g., an electronic device or a remote control). The user input may be configured to select one of the first position, the second position, or any one of a plurality of intermediate positions of the damper assembly  34 . 
     The controller  160  includes memory  174  configured to store instructions  176  to actuate the actuator  124  to rotate the damper assembly  34  based on the received input. For example, the controller  160  may actuate the actuator  124  to rotate the actuation gear  126 , and subsequently the damper assembly  34 , to provide obstruction of the first and second outlets  28 ,  30  based on a selected or predetermined temperature of the first compartment  14  as chosen by a user and as monitored by a temperature sensor  164  within the first compartment  14 . When a user selects a first temperature for the first compartment  14 , the controller  160  actuates the actuator  124  to rotate the damper assembly  34  to ensure that the appropriate first volume of air-flow  20  is provided to the first compartment  14 . The controller  160  may also receive input from the sensors  164 ,  166  to determine if the position of the damper assembly  34  should be changed to provide a larger or smaller volume of the air-flow  20  into the first compartment  14  based on the temperature of the first compartment  14  and/or the position of the door  56  to the first compartment  14 . For example, when the door  56  is open, or shortly after the door  56  is closed, the controller  160  may actuate the actuator  124  to rotate the damper assembly  34  to allow a larger volume of air-flow into the first compartment  14 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  7 - 11 B , the fan assembly  22   a  is illustrated according to another exemplary embodiment. Where features of the fan assembly  22   a  are similar to the features of the fan assembly  22   a  illustrated in  FIGS.  4 - 6   , the same or similar numbers have been used. As illustrated in  FIG.  7   , the fan assembly  22   a  includes the housing  24   a  configured to enclose the fan  32  and the damper assembly  34   a . The housing  24   a  includes the base portion  90   a  coupled with the cover portion  92   a.    
     The base portion  90   a  includes a plurality of clips  190  extending from the base portion  90   a . The plurality of clips  190  are configured to engage with corresponding receptacles  192  defined by the cover portion  92   a . When the plurality of clips  190  are received by the corresponding receptacles  192 , the base portion  90   a  is coupled with the cover portion  92   a . The cover portion  92   a  may further define the opening  150  for receiving electrical connectors  152  of the actuator  124 . The opening  150  may be defined by the central wall  130  or one of the first and second sidewalls  132 ,  134 . 
     The base portion  90   a  further includes the first and second pairs of offsets  104 ,  106  configured to frame the first and second outlets  28   a ,  30   a , respectively. In various examples, the second offsets  106  may be integrally formed with a first portion  196  of a damper guide  198 . The first portion  196  of the damper guide  198  includes opposing arcs  200  positioned to at least partially define a semi-circle. A second portion  202  of the damper guide  198  may be positioned interior of the first portion  196  of the damper guide  198  so that the first and second portions  196 ,  202  of the damper guide  198  surround a circular track  204 , while leaving gaps that partially define the first and second outlets  28   a ,  30   a . The circular track  204  extends circumferentially about an opening  208  that may be configured to at least partially receive the fan  32   a . The track  204  is defined by the base portion  90   a  of the housing  24   a  and is at least partially positioned between the first portion  196  and the second portion  202  of the damper guide  198 . The track  204  is configured to at least partially receive and/or retain the damper assembly  34   a.    
     The cover portion  92  of the housing  24   a  includes the central wall  130  defining the inlet  26   a . As discussed elsewhere herein, the inlet  26   a  is substantially circular and is axially aligned with the center axis X of the housing  24   a  and the fan  32   a . The cover portion  92   a  may further include an extension  206  coupled with the first sidewall  132  of the cover portion  92   a . The extension  206  is configured to extend at least partially along the perimeter of the first outlet  28   a . It will be understood that only the first outlet  28   a  may be surrounded by an extension  206  or that each of the outlets  28   a ,  30   a  may be surrounded by a corresponding extension  206 . It is also contemplated that neither of the outlets  28   a ,  30   a  may be surrounded by an extension  206 . 
     As discussed previously, the first sidewall  132  of the cover portion  92   a  defines the first outlet  28   a , and the second sidewall  134  defines the second outlet  30   a . As illustrated, the first outlet  28   a  may be larger than the second outlet  30   a . Alternatively, the first and second outlets  28   a ,  30   a  may be the same size, or the second outlet  30   a  may be larger than the first outlet  28   a . The first portion  196  of the damper guide  198  is aligned with the first outlet  28   a , and the second portion  202  of the damper guide  198  is aligned with the second outlet  30   a.    
     Referring now to  FIG.  8   , the fan  32   a  is configured to be rotatably coupled with a fan support  210 . The fan support  210  includes a substantially circular body  212  having a plurality of protrusions  214  configured to be coupled with the base portion  90   a  of the housing  24   a . The fan support  210  is aligned with the opening  208  of the base portion  90   a  of the housing  24   a  so that the body  212  is at least partially received by the opening  208 . A rotating shaft  218  extends from the body  212  and is aligned with the center axis X of the housing  24   a  when the fan support  210  is coupled with the base portion  90   a.    
     The fan  32   a  includes a central portion  220  configured to receive the rotating shaft  218  such that the fan  32   a  is rotatable about the rotating shaft  218 . The fan  32   a  further includes a plurality of fins  146   a  that extend outwardly from the central portion  220 . The plurality of fins  146   a  may be positioned in a sunburst pattern and may extend from the central portion  220  to a fan rim  144   a . For example, the fan  32   a  may be configured as a centrifugal fan. It will be understood that the fan  32   a  may be conventionally operated by a motor and/or related electronics (e.g., a fan controller, a timer, etc.) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  8   , the damper assembly  34   a  may include a first damper  226  and a second damper  228  positioned to surround the fan  32   a . The first damper  226  includes a first rim  232  sized to extend about the circumference of the opening  208  of the base portion  90   a . The first rim  232  includes a first plurality of gear teeth  234  extending at least partially about the circumference of the first rim  232 . The first plurality of gear teeth  234  are positioned to extend from the first rim  232  in a direction that is transverse to a lower surface of the rim  232 . In various examples, the first plurality of gear teeth  234  extend along the full circumference of the first rim  232 . In other examples, the first plurality of gear teeth  234  extend along only part of the circumference of the first rim  232 . 
     A first sidewall  236  extends from the first rim  232  in the same direction as, or substantially parallel to, the first plurality of gear teeth  234 . The first sidewall  236  is configured to extend at least partially about the circumference of the first rim  232 . For example, the first sidewall  236  may extend along a quarter of the circumference of the first rim  232 , along a half of the circumference of the first rim  232 , along three-quarters of the circumference of the first rim  232 , or along any other portion of the circumference of the first rim  232  so that the sidewall  236  is large enough to obstruct at least one of the first and second outlets  28   a ,  30   a . The first sidewall  236  is configured to at least be partially received by the track  204  defined by the base portion  90   a  of the housing  24   a  and slides along the track  204  as the first damper  226  rotates. 
     The second damper  228  includes a second rim  240 . The second rim  240  is sized to extend about the circumference of the opening  208 . The second rim  240  may be sized to be the same size as the first rim  232  and the second damper  228  may be positioned to align the second rim  240  with the first rim  232 . A second plurality of gear teeth  242  extend from a surface of the second rim  240  in a direction opposite the direction of the first plurality of gear teeth  234  such that the first and second pluralities of gear teeth  234 ,  242  are spaced apart and extend toward one another. In various examples, the second plurality of gear teeth  242  extend along the full circumference of the second rim  240 . In other examples, the second plurality of gear teeth  242  extend along only part of the circumference of the second rim  240 . In various examples, the second plurality of gear teeth  242  extends circumferentially about the second rim  240  such that, when the damper assembly  34  is positioned within the fan housing  22 , the second plurality of gear teeth  242  at least partially aligns with the first plurality of gear teeth  234 . 
     A second sidewall  244  extends from the second rim  240  in the same direction as, or substantially concentric with, the second plurality of gear teeth  242 . The second sidewall  244  may extend along at least part of the circumference of the second rim  240 . For example, the second sidewall  244  may extend along a quarter of the circumference of the second rim  240 , along a half of the circumference of the second rim  240 , along three-quarters of the circumference of the second rim  240 , or along any other portion of the circumference of the second rim  240  so that the first sidewall  236  and the second sidewall  244  together are at least large enough to cover each of the first and second outlets  28   a ,  30   a.    
     The second rim  240  of the second damper  228  is sized to be at least partially received by the track  204  defined by the base portion  90   a  of the housing  24   a . The second rim  240  is positioned within the track  204  such that the second plurality of gear teeth  242  extend upward from the track  204 , and the second rim  240  is rotatable within the track  204 . 
     A first stop  248  extends from an end of the first sidewall  236  along the width of the first rim  232 . A second stop  250  extends from an end of the second sidewall  244  and extends along the width of the second rim  240 . The first and second stops  248 ,  250  are configured to abut when the damper assembly  34   a  is in a first position that closes off the first outlet  28 . 
     Referring still to  FIG.  8   , an actuator  254  may be operably coupled with one of the base portion  90   a  and the cover portion  92   a  of the housing  24   a . Alternatively, the actuator  254  may be coupled with the fan support  210 . The actuator  254  may be any kind of actuator (e.g., a motor) configured to rotate an actuation gear  256 . Further, it will be understood that the actuator  254  may be one of multiple actuators configured to operate the damper assembly  34   a  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     The actuation gear  256  is operably coupled with the actuator  254  and is configured to be rotated by the actuator  254  in clockwise and counterclockwise directions. The actuation gear  256  includes a plurality of actuation teeth  258  extending about the circumference of the actuation gear  256 . In certain aspects of the device, the actuation gear  256  is sized so that the actuation gear  256  has a diameter that is less than the spacing between the first and second dampers  226 ,  228  of the damper assembly  34   a . In this embodiment, the actuator  254  and/or the actuation gear  256  are positioned such that the actuation gear  256  is positioned between the first and second rims  232 ,  240  of the damper assembly  34   a . The plurality of actuation teeth  258  are positioned to engage, alternatively and selectively, with one of the first plurality of gear teeth  234  and the second plurality of gear teeth  242 . In various examples, the actuation gear  256  may be adjustable between engagement with the first plurality of gear teeth  234  and the second plurality of gear teeth  242 . When the actuation gear  256  is adjustable, the first and second dampers  226 ,  228  of the damper assembly  34  may be moved independently. In other aspects of the device, the actuation gear  256  may be sized to simultaneously engaged with both the first and second pluralities of gear teeth  234 ,  242  such that the first and second dampers  226 ,  228  are rotated together by rotation of the actuation gear  256 . Where the first and second dampers  226 ,  228  are rotated together, the first and second dampers  226 ,  228  are rotated in opposite directions. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  7 - 11 B , the actuation gear  256  is configured to rotate the first and second dampers  226 ,  228  of the damper assembly  34  between a first position ( FIGS.  9 A and  9 B ), a second position ( FIGS.  10 A and  10 B ), and an intermediate position ( FIGS.  11 A and  11 B ). The intermediate position may be any one of a plurality of intermediate positions between the first and second positions. When the damper assembly  34   a  is in the first position, the first and second stops  248 ,  250  are abutted within the first outlet  28   a  and the first and second sidewalls  236 ,  244  are positioned to obstruct the first outlet  28   a  of the housing  24   a  of the fan assembly  22   a . Alternatively, the first and second stops  248 ,  250  of the first and second dampers  226 ,  228  can be positioned to meet within the first and second outlets  28   a ,  30   a  when the first and second dampers  226 ,  228  are rotated simultaneously. When the damper assembly  34   a  is in the second position, one or both of the first and second sidewalls  236 ,  244  are positioned to obstruct the second outlet  30   a  of the housing  24   a  of the fan assembly  22   a.    
     As discussed previously, when the damper assembly  34   a  is in one of the first and second positions, the cooled air  20  is prevented from flowing through one of the respective outlets  28   a ,  30   a  and the respective compartment  14  or  16  is not cooled ( FIGS.  2  and  3   ). When the damper assembly  34   a  is in one of the plurality of intermediate positions, each of the first and second sidewalls  236 ,  244  partially obstructs one or both of the first and second outlets  28   a ,  30   a . In various examples, the obstruction of the first and second outlets  28   a ,  30   a  may be proportional such that when one-quarter of one of the outlets  28   a ,  30   a  are obstructed, three-quarters of the other outlets  28   a ,  30   a  are obstructed. Alternatively, the damper assembly  34   a  may be configured to provide unrelated obstruction of each of the first and second outlets  28   a ,  30   a.    
     Referring now to  FIGS.  7 - 12   , the controller  160  is operably coupled with the actuator  254  and is configured to actuate the actuator  254  in response to input from a sensor (e.g., a temperature sensor  164 , a door sensor  166 , or any other sensor). As previously discussed, the sensors  164 ,  166  may correspond with either of the first compartment  14  or the second compartment  16 . In various examples, each of the first and second compartments  14 ,  16  may include one or more separate sensors  164 ,  166 . Alternatively, the controller  160  may be configured to actuate the actuator  254  based on a timed sequence regulated by the timer  168  such that the actuator  254  is actuated at predetermined time intervals. The controller  160  may further be actuated in response to user input from a display  170  or a user device  172  (e.g., an electronic device or a remote control). The user input may be configured to select one of the first position, the second position, or any one of a plurality of intermediate positions. 
     As previously introduced, the controller  160  includes the memory  174  configured to store the instructions  176 . The instructions  176  allow the controller  160  to actuate the actuator  254  based on the received input. The controller  160  actuates the actuator  254  to rotate the actuation gear  256 , and subsequently one or both of the first and second dampers  226 ,  228  of the damper assembly  34   a , to provide obstruction of the first and second outlets  28   a ,  30   a  based on a selected or predetermined temperature. For example, if a user selects a first temperature for the first compartment  14 , the controller  160  actuates the actuator  254  to rotate one or both of the first and second dampers  226 ,  228  of the damper assembly  34   a  to ensure that the appropriate first volume of cooled air  20  is provided to the first compartment  14 . The controller  160  may also use input from the sensors  164 ,  166  to determine if the position of either of the first and second dampers  226 ,  228  of the damper assembly  34   a  should be changed to provide more or less cooled air  20  into the first compartment  14  based on the temperature of the first compartment  14  and/or the position of the door  56  to the first compartment  14 . For example, when the door  56  is open, or just after the door  56  is closed, the controller  160  may actuate the actuator  254  to rotate the damper assembly  34   a  to allow a larger volume of the cooled air  20  into the first compartment  14 . 
     The adjustable damper assembly  34   a  of the fan assembly  22   a  as discussed above allows a user to operate the refrigerator appliance  10  with the first compartment  14  as a refrigeration compartment and the second compartment  16  as a freezer compartment, with the first compartment  14  as a freezer compartment and the second compartment  16  as a refrigeration compartment, or both the first compartment  14  and the second compartment  16  as refrigeration compartments or freezer compartments. A user may also determine that one of the compartments  14 ,  16  is not needed and may block cooled air  20  from entering the selected compartment  14 ,  16 . This provides a user more flexibility with regard to the use of the refrigeration appliance  10 . The adjustable damper assembly  34   a  further allows the refrigeration appliance  10  to be configured to adjust the volume of cooled air  20  provided to either of the compartments  14 ,  16  to compensate for an open door of the appliance  10 . This further allows for the refrigerator appliance  10  to use less energy cooling both compartments  14 ,  16  when only one compartment  14 ,  16  needs additional cooling. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  13 - 16 C , the fan assembly  22   b  is illustrated according to another exemplary embodiment. Where features of the fan assembly  22   b  are similar to the features of the fan assembly  22  and  22   a  illustrated in  FIGS.  4 - 6  and  7 - 11 B , respectively, the same or similar numbers have been used. In  FIG.  13   , the fan assembly  22   b  is illustrated positioned between the compartments  14 ,  16  of the appliance cabinet  12  and configured to direct air  20  into one or both of the compartments  14 ,  16 , as described in more detail elsewhere herein. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  14  and  15   , the fan assembly  22   b  includes the housing  24   b  configured to enclose the fan  32   b  and the damper assembly  34   b . The housing  24   b  includes the base portion  90   b  coupled with the cover portion  92   b . As best illustrated in  FIG.  15   , the base portion  90   b  includes a base plate  400  and a damper guide  410  extending from the base plate  400 . The damper guide  410  includes an inner arcuate portion  414  and an outer arcuate portion  416 . The inner and outer arcuate portions  414 ,  416  define a receiving channel  420  therebetween configured to at least partially receive the damper assembly  34   b , as discussed in more detail elsewhere herein. 
     The base portion  90   b  further includes a first inner wall  424  and a second inner wall  426 . The first and second inner walls  424 ,  426  are configured to define a fan receiving space  430 . As illustrated in  FIG.  15   , the second inner wall  426  may be integrally formed with the inner arcuate portion  414  of the damper guide  410 . The first and second inner walls  424 ,  426  may be configured to at least partially direct air from the inlet  26   b  toward one or more of the outlets  28   b ,  30   b  (see  FIG.  13   ). 
     The first outlet  28   b  may be framed by a first pair of outlet walls  434 ,  436 . In other words, the first pair of outlet walls  434 ,  436  defines the first outlet  28   b . One of the first pair of outlet walls  434 ,  436  may be integrally formed with the first inner wall  424  and the other of the first pair of outlet walls  434 ,  436  may be integrally formed with the outer arcuate portion  416  of the damper guide  410 . The second outlet  30   b  may be framed by a second pair of outlet walls  438 ,  440 . In other words, the second pair of outlet walls  438 ,  440  defines the second outlet  30   b . One of the second pair of outlet walls  438 ,  440  may be integrally formed with the first inner wall  424 , and the other of the second pair of outlet walls  438 ,  440  may be integrally formed with the outer arcuate portion  416  of the damper guide  410 . 
     With continued reference to  FIG.  15   , the base portion  90   b  may further include a fan mount  444  operably coupled with the base plate  400 . The fan mount  444  may include a pivot member  446  extending upward from the fan mount  444  and positioned along a central axis X of the fan receiving space  430 . The fan  32   b  is configured to be rotatably coupled with the pivot member  446  such that the fan  32   b  is configured to rotate about the central axis X to pull cooled air  20  through the inlet  26   b  and direct the air  20  to one or more of the outlets  28   b ,  30   b  (see  FIG.  13   ). 
     As shown in  FIG.  14   , the housing  24   b  further includes the cover portion  92   b  including a central plate  450  sized to complement the size and shape of the base plate  400  of the base portion  90   b . A periphery wall  452  extends from at least a portion of a perimeter of the central plate  450  and includes first and second portions  456 ,  458 . The first and second portions  456 ,  458  extend between the first pair of outlet walls  434 ,  436  and the second pair of outlet walls  438 ,  440  to at least partially enclose the housing  24   b  and frame the outlets  28   b ,  30   b . The periphery wall  452  may be integrally formed with or may be coupled with the cover portion  92   b  and is further coupled with the base portion  90   b  when the housing  24   b  is assembled. 
     As previously introduced, the central plate  450  of the cover portion  92   b  defines the inlet  26   b . When the housing  24   b  is assembled, the inlet  26   b  is centrally aligned with the central axis X of the fan  32   b  and is sized to draw cooled air  20  into the housing  24   b . The central plate  450  of the cover portion  92   b  may further define a guide  462  extending at least partially about a periphery of the inlet  26   b . The central plate  450  may further define an actuator space  464  in communication with the guide  462 . When the fan assembly  22   b  is assembled, the guide  462  may be configured to at least partially receive the damper assembly  34   b , and the actuator space  464  may be configured to at least partially receive an actuator  466 , as described in more detail elsewhere herein. 
     As previously described with respect to the fan assembly  22  illustrated in  FIG.  4 - 5 C , the fan  32   b  is rotatably coupled with the base portion  90   b . As illustrated in  FIGS.  16 A- 16 C , the fan  32   b  is positioned within the fan receiving space  430  and is configured to at least partially receive the pivot member  446  of the fan mount  444 . In various examples, the fan  32   b  is configured to be rotated about the pivot member  446 . In other examples, the pivot member  446  may be configured to actuate rotation of the fan  32   b.    
     Referring again to  FIG.  15   , the fan  32   b  includes a fan rim  144   b , and a plurality of fins  146   b  extend outward from a center of the fan  32   b  toward the fan rim  144   b  in an arcuate and outwardly radial pattern, sometimes referred to as a “sunburst” pattern. The fan  32   b  is configured to pull or otherwise direct the cooled air  20  from the inlet  26   b  of the housing  24   b  and direct the air  20  through the at least one of first and second outlets  28   b ,  30   b  of the housing  24   b  (see  FIG.  13   ). It will be understood that the fan  32   b  and/or the pivot member  446  of the fan mount  444  may be conventionally operated by a motor and/or related electronics (e.g., a fan controller, a timer, etc.) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  15  and  16 A , the damper guide  410  is configured to receive the damper assembly  34   b . The inner arcuate portion  414  and the outer arcuate portion  416  are spaced apart to define the receiving channel  420 , as previously introduced. The receiving channel  420  is configured to at least partially receive the damper assembly  34   b  and is sized to allow rotation of the damper assembly  34   b  between a neutral position A (see  FIG.  16 A ), a first position B (see  FIG.  16 B ), and a second position C (see  FIG.  16 C ). 
     The damper assembly  34   b  extends around the circumference of the fan  32   b  and is configured to rotate between the neutral position, the first position, and the second position. As shown in  FIG.  15   , the damper assembly  34   b  includes a rim  470  that defines a plurality of gear teeth  474  extending radially from the rim  470 . In various examples, the plurality of gear teeth  474  may be integrally formed with the rim  470 . In other examples, the plurality of gear teeth  474  may be integrally formed with a ring configured to be positioned about and/or coupled to the rim  470 . The plurality of gear teeth  474  may be positioned along the entire circumference of the rim  470  or may be defined circumferentially along at least part of the circumference of the rim  470 . The rim  470  and the plurality of gear teeth  474  may be positioned within the guide  462  of the central plate  450  of the cover  92   b  when the housing  24   b  of the fan assembly  22   b  is assembled. 
     With reference now to  FIGS.  14  and  17   , an actuator  466  is configured to engage with the rim  470  of the damper assembly  34   b  to rotate the damper assembly  34   b  between the neutral position A, the first position B, and the second position C. The actuator  466  may be positioned proximate the damper assembly  34   b  and may be coupled with the base portion  90   b  of the housing  24   b . The actuator  466  may be positioned to be at least partially received by the actuator space  464  of the central plate  450  of the cover  92   b . It will be understood that the actuator  466  may be any actuator configured to engage with the rim  470  and rotate the damper assembly  34   b  in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions between the neutral position A, the first position B, and second position C. 
     As exemplified in  FIGS.  15 - 16 C , a sidewall  478  extends downward from the rim  470  and is slidably engaged with the receiving channel  420  defined by the inner and outer arcuate portions  414 ,  416  of the damper guide  410 . The sidewall  478  extends circumferentially about a portion of the rim  470  of the damper assembly  34   b , as illustrated in  FIG.  15   . For example, the sidewall  478  may extend along a quarter of the circumference of the rim  470 , along half the circumference of the rim  38 , along three-quarters of the circumference of the rim  470 , or any other fraction of the circumference of the rim  470  so that the sidewall  478  is at least large enough to alternatively cover one of the first and second outlets  28   b ,  30   b  and small enough to be fully clear of the first and second outlets  28   b ,  30   b  and also to be fully received by the receiving channel  420  when the damper assembly  34   b  is in the neutral position A (see  FIGS.  16 A- 16 C ). 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  16 A- 16 C , the sidewall  478  of the damper assembly  34   b  includes first and second ends  482 ,  484 . When the damper assembly  34   b  is in the neutral position A, the first end  482  is positioned proximate a first opening  488  in communication with the receiving channel  420 , and the second end  484  is portioned proximate a second opening  490  in communication with the receiving channel  420 . When the damper assembly  34   b  is in the first position B, the sidewall  478  extends through the first opening  488  and the first end  482  of the sidewall  478  contacts one of the first pair of outlet walls  434 . When the first end  482  contacts one of the first pair of outlet walls  434 , the first outlet  28   b  is covered and airflow is prevent through the first outlet  28   b . When the damper assembly  34   b  is in the first position C, the sidewall  478  extends through the second opening  490  and the second end  484  of the sidewall  478  contacts one of the second pair of outlet walls  438 . When the second end  484  contacts one of the second pair of outlet walls  438 , the second outlet  30   b  is covered and airflow is prevent through the second outlet  30   b.    
     Referring now to  FIGS.  13 - 17   , the controller  160  is operably coupled with the actuator  466  and is configured to actuate the actuator  466  in response to input from a sensor (e.g., a temperature sensor  164 , a door sensor  166 , or any other sensor). As previously discussed, the sensors  164 ,  166  may correspond with either of the first compartment  14  or the second compartment  16 . In various examples, each of the first and second compartments  14 ,  16  may include one or more separate sensors  164 ,  166 . Alternatively, the controller  160  may be configured to actuate the actuator  466  based on a timed sequence regulated by the timer  168  such that the actuator  466  is actuated at predetermined time intervals. The controller  160  may further be actuated in response to user input from a display  170  or a user device  172  (e.g., an electronic device or a remote control). The user input may be configured to select one of the first position, the second position, or any one of a plurality of intermediate positions. 
     As previously introduced, the controller  160  includes the memory  174  configured to store the instructions  176 . The instructions  176  allow the controller  160  to actuate the actuator  466  based on the received input. The controller  160  actuates the actuator  466  to operably rotate the damper assembly  34   b  to provide obstruction of the first and second outlets  28   b ,  30   b  based on a selected or predetermined temperature. For example, if a user selects a first temperature for the first compartment  14 , the controller  160  actuates the actuator  466  to rotate the damper assembly  34   b  to ensure that the appropriate first volume of cooled air  20  is provided to the first compartment  14 . The controller  160  may also use input from the sensors  164 ,  166  to determine if the position of the damper assembly  34   b  should be changed to provide more or less cooled air  20  into the first compartment  14  based on the temperature of the first compartment  14  and/or the position of the door  56  to the first compartment  14 . For example, when the door  56  is open, or just after the door  56  is closed, the controller  160  may actuate the actuator  466  to rotate the damper assembly  34  to allow a larger volume of the cooled air  20  into the first compartment  14 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  18  and  19   , the evaporator  78  of the cooling assembly  18  is illustrated having first and second inlet lines  310 ,  312  and an outlet line  316 . As previously discussed, the cooling assembly  18  may use a single evaporator  78 . As shown in  FIGS.  2  and  3   , the evaporator  78  may be positioned between the first and second compartments  14 ,  16  and within the mullion  60 . As illustrated in  FIG.  19   , the evaporator  78  is selectively supplied with a thermal exchange media by a multi-directional valve  86 . The thermal exchange media is supplied to the multi-directional valve  86  via a connection line  300  from the compressor  80  via the condenser  82 . The multi-directional valve  86  corresponds to a 3-way electronic valve having an inlet port  302  and first and second outlet ports  304 ,  306 . The first and second outlet ports  302 ,  304  are configured to selective supply the thermal exchange media to one of a first inlet line  310  and a second inlet line  312 , respectively. A flow path of the thermal exchange media through the cooling assembly  18  is illustrated by the arrows shown in  FIG.  19   . In this configuration, the thermal exchange media may circulate through the cooling assembly  18  of the appliance  10 . 
     Referring still to  FIG.  19   , a cooling system controller  320  may be incorporated into the cooling assembly  18  and may be configured to control the activation, duty cycle, and operation of the compressor  80  and the multi-directional valve  86 . Additionally, the controller  320  may be configured to monitor temperature indications communicated via temperature sensors  164  disposed in each of the compartments  14 ,  16  and humidity indications communicated via humidity sensors  162  disposed in each of the compartments  14 ,  16 . The controller  320  may comprise one or more logic control devices, integrated circuits, processors, and/or memory devices, which may be programmed with and/or configured to provide for the operation of the various control routines and methods of operation discussed herein. 
     The controller  320  may control the multi-directional valve  86  to provide the thermal exchange media to one of the first and second inlet lines  310 ,  312 . As shown in  FIGS.  18  and  19   , the first and second inlet lines  310 ,  312  are operably coupled with the evaporator  78 . The first and second inlet lines  310 ,  312  may be configured as capillary tubes. However, it is contemplated that the first and second inlet lines  310 ,  312  may be any conduit configured to provide the thermal exchange media to the evaporator  78  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. As illustrated in  FIG.  18   , the lines  310 ,  312  may be positioned within a single casing  600 . Alternatively, the lines  310 ,  312  may be separately enclosed or otherwise positioned to provide thermal exchange media to the evaporator  78 . The first inlet line  310  is configured to provide the thermal exchange media to the evaporator  78  at a first flow rate, and the second inlet line  312  is configured to provide the thermal exchange media to the evaporator  78  at a second flow rate. The first flow rate is less than the second flow rate such that the first inlet line  310  provides thermal exchange media to the evaporator  78  at a lower rate than the second inlet line  312 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  1 - 19   , when a temperature sensor  164  or humidity sensor  162  of one or both of the compartments  14 ,  16  indicates that cooling of the compartment  14 ,  16  is needed, the controller  320  is configured to actuate the cooling assembly  18 . For example, where the first compartment  14  is being utilized as a refrigerator compartment and indicates that cooling is needed, the controller  320  is configured to control the multi-directional valve  86  to open the inlet port  302  and the first outlet port  304 . The thermal exchange media may then flow along the connection line  300  from the condenser  82 , through the multi-directional valve  86 , and into the first inlet line  310 . The first inlet line  310  provides the thermal exchange media to the evaporator  78  at the first flow rate. The first flow rate is configured to provide the thermal exchange media to the evaporator  78  such that the evaporator  78  is configured to cool the air pulled through the channel  72  by the fan assembly  22 ,  22   a  to a temperature between about 35° F. and about 20° F. 
     In another example, where the first compartment  14  is being utilized as a freezer compartment and indicates that cooling is needed, the controller  320  is configured to control the multi-direction valve  86  to open the inlet port  302  and the second outlet port  306 . The thermal exchange media may then flow along the connection line  300  from the condenser  82 , through the multi-directional valve  86 , and into the second inlet line  312 . The second inlet line  312  provides the thermal exchange media to the evaporator  78  at the second flow rate. The second flow rate is configured to provide the thermal exchange media to the evaporator  78  such that the evaporator  78  is configured to cool the air pulled through the channel  72  by the fan assembly  22 ,  22   a  to a temperature between about −20° F. and −30° F. 
     In yet another example, where the first compartment  14  is being utilized as a refrigerator compartment and the second compartment  16  is being utilized as a freezer compartment, the controller  320  is configured to is configured to control the multi-direction valve  86  to open the inlet port  302  and the second outlet port  306  such that the thermal exchange media may flow from the condenser  82 , through the multi-directional valve  86 , and into the second inlet line  312 . The second inlet line  312  provides the thermal exchange media to the evaporator  78  at the second flow rate to cool the air pulled through the channel  72  by the fan assembly  22 ,  22   a ,  22   b . In all examples, when the air is cooled by the evaporator  78 , the cooled air  20  is directed by the fan assembly  22 ,  22   a ,  22   b  into one or both of the first and second compartments  14 ,  16 . It is contemplated that the cooling system controller  320  may interact with or be integrated with the controller  160  of the fan assembly  22 ,  22   a ,  22   b  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Utilizing a single evaporator  78  with two or more inlet lines  310 ,  312  provides cooled air  20  at various predetermined temperatures to the first and second compartments  14 ,  16 . By adjusting the temperature of the cooled air  20  flowing into the first and second compartments  14 ,  16 , the humidity and temperature of the compartments  14 ,  16  may be more readily controlled. For example, where one compartment  14 ,  16  is being utilized as a refrigerator compartment, the temperature of the cooled air  20  may be lowered to prevent adding humidity to the compartment  14 ,  16 . Likewise, the energy required to cool the air to the lower temperature for cooling the compartment  14 ,  16  may be reduced by the lower temperature, which may result in energy savings and increased efficiency of the cooling assembly  18 . 
     According to one aspect, a cooling assembly for a refrigerator appliance includes a housing that defines an inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet. The first outlet is defined opposite the second outlet. A fan is positioned within the housing. The fan is configured to direct cooled air through the inlet and direct the cooled air toward the first and second outlets. A damper assembly is configured to rotate between a first position and a second position. The damper assembly includes a rim coupled with a plurality of gear teeth. The plurality of gear teeth are positioned circumferentially about, and extend radially from, the rim. A sidewall extends from a surface of the rim and extends circumferentially about a portion of a circumference of the rim. An actuator includes an actuation gear configured to be engaged with the plurality of gear teeth. The actuation gear is configured to rotate the damper assembly between the first and second positions. 
     According to another aspect, a sidewall of a damper assembly is configured to obstruct a first outlet when the damper assembly is in a first position and is configured to obstruct a second outlet when the damper assembly is in a second position. 
     According to another aspect, a damper assembly is configured to be moved to an intermediate position between first and second positions. A sidewall of the damper assembly is configured to at least partially obstruct one of first and second outlets when the damper assembly is in the intermediate position. 
     According to another aspect, a plurality of gear teeth are integrally formed with a rim. 
     According to another aspect, a plurality of gear teeth are integrally formed with a ring configured to be positioned about a rim. 
     According to another aspect, an inlet is substantially circular and axially aligned with the fan. 
     According to another aspect, a cooling assembly includes a controller configured to actuate an actuator in response to sensor input. 
     According to another aspect, a cooling assembly includes a controller configured to actuate the actuator in response to user input. 
     According to another aspect, a cooling assembly for a refrigerator appliance includes a housing defining an inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet. The first outlet is defined distal from the second outlet. A fan is positioned within the housing. The fan is configured to direct cooled air through the inlet and toward the first and second outlets. A damper assembly is configured to selectively obstruct one of the first and second outlets by rotating between a first position and a second position. The damper assembly includes a first damper that has a first plurality of gear teeth extending from a first rim and a first sidewall that extends from the first rim parallel with the first plurality of gear teeth. A second damper has a second plurality of gear teeth extending from a second rim and a second sidewall that extends from the second rim parallel with the second plurality of gear teeth. The first and second dampers are positioned such that the first plurality of gear teeth extend towards the second plurality of gear teeth. 
     According to another aspect, a cooling assembly includes an actuator that has an actuation gear. The actuation gear is configured to be engaged with first and second pluralities of gear teeth and is positioned between first and second dampers. 
     According to another aspect, a first sidewall extends circumferentially about a portion of a first rim and a second sidewall extends circumferentially about a portion of a second rim. 
     According to another aspect, a first damper includes a first stop, and a second damper includes a second stop. The first and second stops are substantially flush when a damper assembly is in a first position. 
     According to another aspect, a refrigerator appliance includes a cabinet that defines first and second compartments. A fan assembly is configured to direct cooled air from a cooling assembly into the first and second compartments. The fan assembly includes a housing that defines an inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet. The first outlet is in communication with the first compartment, and the second outlet is in communication with the second compartment. A fan is positioned within the housing and is configured to direct the cooled air from the inlet toward the first and second outlets. A damper assembly is configured to selectively obstruct one of the first outlet and the second outlet. 
     According to another aspect, a fan assembly includes an actuator configured to rotate a damper assembly between first and second positions. 
     According to another aspect, a damper assembly is configured to obstruct a first outlet in a first position and is configured to obstruct a second outlet in a second position. 
     According to another aspect, a damper assembly is movable to an intermediate position between the first and second positions. The damper assembly is configured to partially obstruct both first and second outlets when the damper assembly is positioned in the intermediate position. 
     According to another aspect, a housing defines a receiving channel, and a damper assembly is movable to an neutral position between first and second positions. The damper assembly is fully received by the receiving channel in the neutral position. 
     According to another aspect, a cooling assembly includes an evaporator positioned proximate an inlet of a housing, a first inlet line operably coupled with the evaporator and configured to provide a thermal exchange media at a first flow rate, and a second inlet line operably coupled with the evaporator and configured to provide the thermal exchange media at a second flow rate. 
     According to another aspect, a damper assembly includes a first damper that has a first rim with a first plurality of teeth and a first sidewall extending from the first rim. The first sidewall extends at least partially about a circumference of the first rim. 
     According to another aspect, a damper assembly includes a second damper that has a second rim with a second plurality of teeth and a second sidewall extending from the first rim. The second plurality of teeth extend toward a first plurality of teeth. 
     According to another aspect, a first plurality of teeth extend from a surface of a first rim parallel with a first sidewall. 
     According to another aspect, a first plurality of teeth extend radially from a first rim. 
     It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described disclosure and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the disclosure disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein. 
     For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” (in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated. 
     It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the disclosure as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations. 
     It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.