Patent Description:
<CIT> relates to an electrified bus bar assembly is provided. The electrified bus bar assembly includes a track and one or more take-away adaptors that each are capable of acting as a power source to one or more display components. Each take away adaptor is mountable to the track via an electrical and mechanical connection. <CIT> concerns an adjustable door lighting assembly for a refrigerator appliance is provided. In one embodiment, the refrigerator appliance can include a chilled chamber and a door rotatably hinged to the cabinet to provide selective access to the chilled chamber. The adjustable door lighting assembly can include a power track disposed on the door. The adjustable door lighting assembly can include at least one storage bin. The storage bin can include a light emitting device disposed on the storage bin The power track can be configured to deliver power to each respective light emitting device when the storage bin is engaged with the power track. <CIT> relates to a refrigerator appliance including a cabinet and a powered track disposed within the cabinet for receiving adjustable shelves at various shelf mounting positions. The powered track can include a first and a second power bus in electrical communication with a power source. The adjustable shelf can include a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector that are biased in electrical communication with the first and second power bus, respectively, when the adjustable shelf is mounted to the powered track. Refrigerator appliances generally include a cabinet that defines a chilled chamber for receipt of food articles for storage. Refrigerator appliances can also include various storage components mounted within the chilled chamber and designed to facilitate storage of food items therein. Such storage components can include racks, bins, shelves, or drawers that receive food items and assist with organizing and arranging of such food items within the chilled chamber.

Consumers of refrigerator appliances generally enjoy connecting USB devices to their refrigerator appliances, including for example, USB cameras for viewing the contents within a chilled chamber, Ethylene sensors for detecting food freshness, and/or bar code scanners for maintaining food inventory or making automatic food orders online. USB ports can be located within a chilled chamber in a number of positions. Conventionally, it has been challenging to enable USB functionality to USB ports positioned on shelves, particularly adjustable shelves. Consumers have had to make electrical connections manually, which some consumers find inconvenient. Furthermore, it has been challenging to enable USB functionality to USB ports positioned on bins, particularly those located within a door of the refrigerator appliance.

Accordingly, a refrigerator appliance having USB features that addresses one or more of the challenges above would be useful.

In one aspect, an appliance according to claim <NUM> is provided. The dependent claims set out particular embodiments of the invention.

In another aspect, an appliance according to claim <NUM> is provided. The dependent claims set out particular embodiments of the invention.

Furthermore, as used herein, terms of approximation, such as "approximately," "substantially," or "about," refer to being within a fifteen percent (<NUM>%) margin of error from the stated value.

<FIG> provides a perspective view of a refrigerator appliance <NUM> according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. Refrigerator appliance <NUM> includes a housing or cabinet <NUM>. Cabinet <NUM> extends between a top <NUM> and a bottom <NUM> along a vertical direction V. Refrigerator appliance <NUM> also extends between a first side <NUM> and a second side <NUM> along a lateral direction L. For this embodiment, first side <NUM> corresponds with a left side of refrigerator appliance <NUM> and second side <NUM> corresponds with a right side of refrigerator appliance <NUM>. Moreover, cabinet <NUM> extends between a front <NUM> and a back <NUM> along the transverse direction T. The vertical direction V, lateral direction L, and transverse direction T are mutually perpendicular and form an orthogonal direction system.

Cabinet <NUM> defines chilled chambers for receipt of food items for storage. In particular, cabinet <NUM> defines a fresh food chamber <NUM> positioned at or adjacent top <NUM> of cabinet <NUM> and a freezer chamber <NUM> arranged at or adjacent bottom <NUM> of cabinet <NUM>. As such, refrigerator appliance <NUM> is generally referred to as a bottom mount refrigerator. It is recognized, however, that the inventive aspects of the present disclosure apply to other types and styles of refrigerator appliances such as, e.g., a top mount refrigerator appliance or a side-by-side style refrigerator appliance. Consequently, the description set forth herein is for example purposes only and is not intended to be limiting in any aspect to any particular refrigerator appliance configuration. Furthermore, the inventive aspects of the present disclosure are applicable to other types of appliances, including other appliances in which items are stored.

Refrigerator doors <NUM> are rotatably hinged to an edge of cabinet <NUM> for selectively accessing fresh food chamber <NUM>. In addition, a freezer door <NUM> is arranged below refrigerator doors <NUM> for selectively accessing freezer chamber <NUM>. Freezer door <NUM> is coupled to a freezer drawer (not shown) slidably mounted within freezer chamber <NUM>. Refrigerator doors <NUM> and freezer door <NUM> are shown in the closed configuration or position in <FIG> and in an open configuration or position in <FIG>.

Refrigerator appliance <NUM> also includes a dispensing assembly <NUM> for dispensing liquid water and/or ice. Dispensing assembly <NUM> includes a dispenser <NUM> positioned on or mounted to an exterior portion of refrigerator appliance <NUM>, e.g., on one of refrigerator doors <NUM>. Dispenser <NUM> includes a discharging outlet <NUM> for accessing ice and liquid water. An actuating mechanism <NUM>, shown as a paddle, is mounted below discharging outlet <NUM> for operating dispenser <NUM>. In alternative exemplary embodiments, any suitable actuating mechanism may be used to operate dispenser <NUM>. For example, dispenser <NUM> can include a sensor (such as an ultrasonic sensor) or a button rather than the paddle. A control panel <NUM> allows a user to select modes of operation of refrigeration appliance <NUM>. For example, control panel <NUM> can include a plurality of user inputs (not labeled), such as a water-dispensing button and an ice-dispensing button, which can allow for selection between crushed and non- crushed ice. Discharging outlet <NUM> and actuating mechanism <NUM> are an external part of dispenser <NUM> and are mounted in a dispenser recess <NUM> defined by left refrigerator door <NUM> as depicted in <FIG>. Dispenser recess <NUM> is positioned at a predetermined elevation convenient for a user to access ice and/or water and without the need to open refrigerator doors <NUM>.

Operation of the refrigerator appliance <NUM> can be regulated by a controller <NUM> that is communicatively coupled to control panel <NUM> and/or various operational components of refrigerator appliance <NUM>. As noted above, control panel <NUM> provides selections for user manipulation of the operation of refrigerator appliance <NUM> such as e.g., selections between whole or crushed ice, chilled water, and other various options. In response to user manipulation of control panel <NUM>, controller <NUM> may operate various components of refrigerator appliance <NUM>.

Controller <NUM> can include one or more memory devices and one or more processing devices. The one or more memory devices can include a non-transitory computer readable media, FLASH, RAM, ROM, or electrically erasable, programmable read only memory (EEPROM). The one or more processing devices can include one or more microprocessors, CPUs or the like, such as general or special purpose microprocessors operable to execute programming instructions or micro- control code associated with operation of refrigerator appliance <NUM>. In some embodiments, the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory. For example, the instructions may be software or any set of instructions that when executed by the processing device, cause the processing device to perform operations. Alternatively, controller <NUM> may be constructed without using a microprocessor, e.g., using a combination of discrete analog and/or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software.

Controller <NUM> may be positioned in a variety of locations throughout refrigerator appliance <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment of <FIG>, controller <NUM> is located behind or proximate control panel <NUM>. In other embodiments, controller <NUM> may be positioned at any suitable location within refrigerator appliance <NUM>, such as for example within a fresh food chamber, a freezer door, etc. Input/output ("I/O") signals may be routed between controller <NUM> and various operational components of refrigerator appliance <NUM>. For example, control panel <NUM> may be in communication with controller <NUM> via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses.

<FIG> provides a front view of refrigerator appliance <NUM> having refrigerator doors <NUM> in an open position to reveal the interior of fresh food chamber <NUM>. Additionally, freezer door <NUM> is shown in an open position to reveal the interior of freezer chamber <NUM>. As depicted, various storage components are mounted within fresh food chamber <NUM> to facilitate storage of food items therein as will be understood by those skilled in the art. In particular, the storage components include storage bins <NUM>, drawers <NUM>, and shelves <NUM> that are mounted within fresh food chamber <NUM>. Storage bins <NUM>, drawers <NUM>, and shelves <NUM> are configured for receipt of food items (e.g., beverages and/or solid food items) and may assist with organizing such food items. As an example, drawers <NUM> can receive fresh food items (e.g., vegetables, fruits, and/or cheeses) and increase the useful life of such fresh food items.

For this embodiment, fresh food chamber <NUM> of refrigerator appliance <NUM> includes various shelf tracks to which one or more shelves <NUM> can be mounted. For this embodiment, refrigerator appliance <NUM> includes a left hand track 180A, a middle track 180B, and a right hand track 180C. The tracks 180A, 180B, 180C are mounted to a rear wall <NUM> of cabinet <NUM>. The tracks 180A, 180B, 180C are oriented generally along the vertical direction V. Left hand track 180A is positioned at or proximate the first side <NUM> and right hand track 180C is positioned at or proximate second side <NUM> of refrigerator appliance <NUM>. Middle track 180B is positioned between the tracks <NUM>, <NUM> along the lateral direction L as shown (e.g., in the middle between tracks <NUM>, <NUM>). In alternative embodiments, tracks 180A, 180B, 180C can be mounted to another surface within the interior of cabinet <NUM>, such as to one of the sidewalls <NUM> of cabinet <NUM> or along a surface in freezer chamber <NUM>.

Notably, some or all of the shelf tracks 180A, 180B, 180C of refrigerator appliance <NUM> can enable transmission of digital data between controller <NUM> and a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device (not shown) connected to a USB port <NUM> positioned on one of shelves <NUM> and can enable electrical power transmission to the connected USB device. For instance, for the present embodiment, left hand track 180A, middle track 180B, and right hand track 180C are all USB-enabled tracks in that they are operable to transmit electrical power and digital data between a USB device connected to USB port <NUM> and controller <NUM> and/or some other processing device of refrigerator appliance <NUM>. Example USB devices can include, without limitation, USB connectable cameras, ethylene sensors, bar code scanners, load sensors, lights, etc..

In some embodiments, the shelves or shelf <NUM> having USB port <NUM> can be selectively positioned by a user in different shelf mounting positions within fresh food chamber <NUM>. For instance, as shown best in <FIG>, cabinet <NUM> defines a vertical centerline CL dividing refrigerator appliance <NUM> along the lateral direction L. As shown, vertical centerline CL is oriented midway between first side <NUM> and second side <NUM> of refrigerator appliance <NUM>. For this embodiment, as noted above, middle track 180B is oriented substantially along vertical centerline CL. Left and right hand tracks <NUM>, <NUM> are positioned proximate first side <NUM> and proximate second side <NUM> along the vertical direction V as shown. In this manner, one column of adjustable shelves can be mounted proximate the first side <NUM> of refrigerator appliance <NUM> and one column of adjustable shelves can be mounted proximate second side <NUM> of refrigerator appliance <NUM>. For example, a left side shelf mounting bracket of an adjustable shelf can be mounted in one of the mounting openings 182B- L of middle track 180B and a right side shelf mounting bracket thereof can be mounted in a corresponding mounting opening 182A of left hand track 180A. As another example, a left side shelf mounting bracket of an adjustable shelf can be mounted in one of the mounting openings 182B-R of middle track 180B and a right side shelf mounting bracket thereof can be mounted in a corresponding mounting opening 182C of right hand track 180C. In other embodiments, the shelves or shelf <NUM> having USB port <NUM> can be fixed to one or more tracks 180A, 180B, 180C. It will be appreciated that one, some, or all of the shelves <NUM> can be configured with USB ports.

<FIG> provides a front schematic view of cabinet <NUM> of refrigerator appliance <NUM> with various components removed for illustrative purposes. As shown, tracks 180A, 180B, 180C are in electrical communication with a power source <NUM>. For this embodiment, power source <NUM> is a power supply isolated from the line voltage supplying power to the main loads of refrigerator appliance <NUM>, such as the compressor, motors, etc. Power source <NUM> can be a <NUM> volt (12V) or <NUM> volt (24V) power supply, for example. An electrical conduit <NUM> extends between power source <NUM> and controller <NUM>. Controller <NUM> includes a power management unit <NUM> onboard or proximate controller <NUM>. Power management unit <NUM> is operable to distribute electrical power received from power source <NUM> to tracks 180A, 180B, 180C as required, e.g., via a USB cable or conduit <NUM>. Although power management unit <NUM> is shown positioned onboard controller <NUM>, it will be appreciated that power management unit <NUM> can be positioned offboard controller <NUM> in other example embodiments.

Controller <NUM> is also communicatively coupled with a centralized hub <NUM>. Centralized hub <NUM> can facilitate digital data exchange between a USB connected device and controller <NUM>/power management unit <NUM>. Centralized hub <NUM> is also communicatively coupled with each track 180A, 180B, 180C via USB conduit <NUM>. USB conduit <NUM> can include a D+ wire and a D- wire carrying a differential or data signal, a power wire VCC (or VBUS), and a ground wire GND. The USB wires can be shielded or non-shielded wires. Furthermore, the USB cables of USB conduit <NUM> can include a drain wire and can be protected by one or more jackets.

<FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> provide various views of the shelf tracks 180A, 180B, 180C. Particularly, <FIG> provides an exploded view of left hand track 180A according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. <FIG> provides a schematic top cross-sectional view of left hand track 180A. <FIG> provides a schematic top cross-sectional view of middle track 180B. <FIG> provides a schematic top cross-sectional view of right hand track 180C. Generally, left hand track 180A and right hand track 180C are similarly configured, except as noted below. Middle track 180B is also similarly configured, except that it includes a left hand side and a right hand side as will be explained below.

As shown in <FIG>, from front to back along the transverse direction T, left hand track 180A includes a first support member <NUM>, an insulating member <NUM>, a first bus bar <NUM>, a second support member <NUM>, and a second bus bar <NUM>. Each component will be discussed in turn.

First support member <NUM> structurally supports one or more shelves <NUM> (<FIG>) when they are mounted to left hand track 180A. Moreover, first support member <NUM> structurally supports the weight of the other components of left hand track 180A. First support member <NUM> can be made of any suitable structural material. For example, in this embodiment, first support member <NUM> is made of steel. First support member <NUM> extends along the vertical direction V between a top portion <NUM> and a bottom portion <NUM> of left hand track 180A. First support member <NUM> also extends in the lateral direction L between a first side portion <NUM> and a second side portion <NUM> of left hand track 180A. First support member <NUM> includes a front surface <NUM> and a rear surface <NUM>, both of which are substantially coplanar with a plane including both the vertical direction V and the lateral direction L. That is, front surface <NUM> and rear surface <NUM> are substantially orthogonal to the transverse direction T.

Sidewalls <NUM> of first support member <NUM> extend from rear surface <NUM> generally along the transverse direction T in a rearward direction. One sidewall <NUM> extends in the transverse direction T from the first side portion <NUM> of rear surface <NUM> and one sidewall <NUM> (not visible in <FIG>; see <FIG>) extends in the transverse direction T from second side portion <NUM> of rear surface <NUM>. In some embodiments, at least a portion of each sidewall <NUM> may be angled with respect to the transverse direction T. For this embodiment, the sidewalls <NUM> of first support member <NUM> are angled inward toward one another as they extend generally rearward along the transverse direction T. In alternative exemplary embodiments, sidewalls <NUM> can extend substantially along the transverse direction T from rear surface <NUM> from their respective first and second side portions <NUM>, <NUM>.

First support member <NUM> defines a plurality of apertures <NUM> extending between front surface <NUM> and rear surface <NUM>. Each aperture <NUM> is shown in a generally rectangular configuration; however, other suitable configurations are contemplated, such as square configurations. Each aperture <NUM> includes a top edge <NUM>, a bottom edge <NUM>, and two side edges <NUM> oriented parallel to one another and perpendicular to the top and bottom edges <NUM>, <NUM>. Apertures <NUM> form a part of mounting openings 182A (<FIG>).

First support member <NUM> also defines one or more fastener apertures <NUM> extending between front surface <NUM> and rear surface <NUM> along the transverse direction T. Fastener apertures <NUM> receive mechanical fasteners <NUM>, such as screws, for securing left hand track 180A with cabinet <NUM> of refrigerator appliance <NUM> (<FIG>). As shown, one fastener aperture <NUM> is located proximate top portion <NUM> of left hand track 180A and one fastener aperture <NUM> is located proximate bottom portion <NUM>. Fastener apertures <NUM> can be any suitable shape or configuration. For this embodiment, fastener apertures <NUM> are shown in a generally circular configuration.

As noted above, first support member <NUM> is formed of an electrically conductive material. Thus, in some embodiments, first support member <NUM> can function as a shielding element of left hand track 180A, as denoted by B in <FIG>. As first support member <NUM> functions as a shielding element, the effects of electromagnetic disturbances can be limited and USB devices connected to USB port <NUM> can be protected from external disturbances, such as transient bursts induced in USB conduit <NUM> (<FIG>). In some embodiments, first support member <NUM> is connected to an electrical ground and is in electrical communication with USB port <NUM>, e.g., via a wire.

Insulating member <NUM> is formed of an electrically insulating material and is positioned between first support member <NUM> and first bus bar <NUM>, e.g., along the transverse direction T. Thus, insulating member <NUM> separates first support member <NUM> and first bus bar <NUM>. In this way, first support member <NUM> and first bus bar <NUM> are electrically isolated from one another. Insulating member <NUM> extends along the vertical direction V between top portion <NUM> and bottom portion <NUM> of left hand track 180A. Insulating member <NUM> also extends along the lateral direction L between first side portion <NUM> and second side portion <NUM>. Insulating member <NUM> has a thickness along the transverse direction T. Insulating member <NUM> includes a front surface <NUM> and a rear surface <NUM>, both of which are substantially coplanar with a plane including both the vertical direction V and the lateral direction L. When coupled, front surface <NUM> of insulating member <NUM> sits flush against rear surface <NUM> of first support member <NUM>. In some exemplary embodiments, however, front surface <NUM> of insulating member <NUM> need not sit flush with rear surface <NUM> of first support member <NUM> (i.e., insulating member <NUM> may be spaced from first support member <NUM> along the transverse direction T in some embodiments).

Similar to first support member <NUM>, insulating member <NUM> defines a plurality of apertures <NUM> extending between front surface <NUM> and rear surface <NUM>. Each aperture <NUM> of insulating member <NUM> is shown in a generally rectangular configuration; however, other suitable configurations are contemplated. Each aperture <NUM> includes a top edge <NUM>, a bottom edge <NUM>, and two side edges <NUM> oriented parallel to one another and perpendicular to top and bottom edges <NUM>, <NUM>. When left hand track 180A is assembled, each aperture <NUM> of insulating member <NUM> is in communication with a corresponding aperture <NUM> of first support member <NUM>. Apertures <NUM>, <NUM> of first support member <NUM> and insulating member <NUM> are each configured to receive at least a portion of one of shelves <NUM> (e.g., a mounting bracket thereof) when the shelf <NUM> is mounted to left hand track 180A. In this way, like apertures <NUM> of first support member <NUM>, apertures <NUM> form a part of mounting openings 182A.

In addition, like first support member <NUM>, insulating member <NUM> defines one or more fastener apertures <NUM> extending between front surface <NUM> and rear surface <NUM> of insulating member <NUM>. As shown, one fastener aperture <NUM> is located proximate top portion <NUM> of left hand track 180A and one fastener aperture <NUM> is located proximate bottom portion <NUM>. When left hand track 180A is assembled, each fastener aperture <NUM> of insulating member <NUM> is in communication with a corresponding fastener aperture <NUM> of first support member <NUM>. In this regard, fastener apertures <NUM>, <NUM> of first support member <NUM> and insulating member <NUM> receive mechanical fasteners <NUM> for securing left hand track 180A with cabinet <NUM> of refrigerator appliance <NUM> (<FIG>).

First bus bar <NUM> is an electrically conductive component and is communicatively coupled with centralized hub <NUM> via USB conduit <NUM>, which is in turn communicatively coupled with controller <NUM>. For this embodiment, first bus bar <NUM> is communicatively coupled, or more specifically in electrical communication, with centralized hub <NUM> via a ground wire of USB conduit <NUM>, and thus, first bus bar <NUM> is electrically charged or designated as the ground GND of left hand track 180A as depicted in <FIG>. First bus bar <NUM> can be any suitable electrically conducting material, such as stainless steel, for example. First bus bar <NUM> extends in the vertical direction V between top portion <NUM> and bottom portion <NUM> of left hand track 180A. First bus bar <NUM> also extends in the lateral direction L between first side portion <NUM> and second side portion <NUM>. First bus bar <NUM> has a thickness along the transverse direction T. First bus bar <NUM> includes a front surface <NUM> and a rear surface <NUM>, both of which are substantially coplanar with a plane including both vertical direction V and lateral direction L. When coupled, front surface <NUM> of first bus bar <NUM> sits flush against rear surface <NUM> of insulating member <NUM>. In some exemplary embodiments, however, front surface <NUM> of first bus bar <NUM> need not sit flush with rear surface <NUM> of insulating member <NUM> (i.e., first bus bar <NUM> may be spaced from insulating member <NUM> along the transverse direction T).

Like first support member <NUM> and insulating member <NUM>, first bus bar <NUM> defines a plurality of apertures <NUM> extending between front surface <NUM> and rear surface <NUM>. Each aperture <NUM> of first bus bar <NUM> is shown in a generally rectangular configuration; however, other suitable configurations are contemplated. Each aperture <NUM> includes a top edge <NUM>, a bottom edge <NUM>, and two side edges <NUM> oriented parallel to one another and perpendicular to top and bottom edges <NUM>, <NUM>. When left hand track 180A is assembled, each aperture <NUM> of first bus bar <NUM> is in communication with a corresponding aperture <NUM> of first support member <NUM> and aperture <NUM> of insulating member <NUM>. Apertures <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of first support member <NUM>, insulating member <NUM>, and first bus bar <NUM> are each configured to receive at least a portion of shelf <NUM> when shelf <NUM> is mounted to left hand track 180A. In this way, like apertures <NUM>, <NUM> of first support member <NUM> and insulating member <NUM>, respectively, apertures <NUM> of first bus bar <NUM> form a part of mounting openings 182A.

In addition, like first support member <NUM> and insulating member <NUM>, first bus bar <NUM> defines one or more fastener apertures <NUM> extending between front surface <NUM> and rear surface <NUM> of first bus bar <NUM>. As shown, one fastener aperture <NUM> is located proximate top portion <NUM> of left hand track 180A and one fastener aperture <NUM> is located proximate bottom portion <NUM>. When left hand track 180A is assembled, each fastener aperture <NUM> of first bus bar <NUM> is in communication with a corresponding fastener aperture <NUM> of first support member <NUM> and fastener aperture <NUM> of insulating member <NUM>. In this regard, fastener apertures <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of first support member <NUM>, insulating member <NUM>, and first bus bar <NUM> receive mechanical fasteners <NUM> for securing left hand track 180A with cabinet <NUM> of refrigerator appliance <NUM> (<FIG>).

Referring still to <FIG>, second support member <NUM> extends in the vertical direction V between top portion <NUM> and bottom portion <NUM> of left hand track 180A. Second support member <NUM> also extends in the lateral direction L between first side portion <NUM> and second side portion <NUM>. Second support member <NUM> can be made of any suitable material, such as plastic. In some embodiments, second support member <NUM> is formed of a non-electrically conductive or insulating material.

Second support member <NUM> includes lateral members <NUM>, one of which is located proximate top portion <NUM> and one is located proximate bottom portion <NUM> of left hand track 180A. Lateral members <NUM> both include a front surface <NUM> and a rear surface <NUM>, both of which are substantially planar with the lateral direction L. Lateral members <NUM> extend in the lateral direction L between opposed transverse members <NUM>. Each transverse member <NUM> extends in the transverse direction T between a front portion <NUM> and a rear portion <NUM> of second support member <NUM> and each transverse member <NUM> extends in the vertical direction V between top portion <NUM> and bottom portion <NUM> of left hand track 180A. Lateral members <NUM> and transverse members <NUM> define a gap <NUM>. Gap <NUM>, along with apertures <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of first support member <NUM>, insulating member <NUM>, and first bus bar <NUM>, form a part of mounting openings 180A. As shown by the dashed line denoted with 180A in <FIG>, shelf <NUM> (<FIG>) or portions thereof can be inserted through apertures <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and into gap <NUM> (collectively "mounting openings 180A") to secure shelf <NUM> to left hand track 180A.

Extending from front portion <NUM> of each transverse member <NUM> are sidewalls <NUM>. Sidewalls <NUM> extend substantially in the transverse direction T from transverse members <NUM> in a forward direction toward first support member <NUM>. As depicted, sidewalls <NUM> may be angled with respect to the transverse direction T. In this embodiment, sidewalls <NUM> of second support member <NUM> are angled outward with respect to one another as they extend generally forward along the transverse direction T. When left hand track 180A is assembled, sidewalls <NUM> of second support member <NUM> mate with sidewalls <NUM> of first support member <NUM>. In this regard, the angled sidewalls <NUM> of second support member <NUM> are complementary to sidewalls <NUM> of first support member <NUM>. In other alternative exemplary embodiments, sidewalls <NUM> can be configured to extend substantially along the transverse direction T in the forward direction.

With reference now to <FIG> and <FIG> provides a perspective, cutaway view of left hand track 180A of <FIG> with shelf <NUM> mounted thereto according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, one or more retention members <NUM> extend in the lateral direction L between opposed transverse members <NUM>. With specific reference to <FIG>, one retention member <NUM> is shown positioned approximately midway between top portion <NUM> and bottom portion <NUM> of left hand track 180A. In addition, with specific reference to <FIG>, retention members <NUM> can also be positioned proximate top portion <NUM>. Although not shown, retention members <NUM> can be positioned proximate bottom portion <NUM>. Retention members <NUM> positioned proximate top and bottom portion <NUM>, <NUM> are spaced from the lateral members <NUM> in the transverse direction T. Specifically, retention members <NUM> are spaced rearward of lateral members <NUM> in the transverse direction T. Retention members <NUM> can be positioned directly behind lateral members <NUM>. In this way, lateral members <NUM> and retention members <NUM> define slits <NUM> in which second bus bar <NUM> is coupled with second support member <NUM>.

More particularly, for this embodiment, second bus bar <NUM> is coupled with second support member <NUM> by sliding second bus bar <NUM> into slits <NUM> of second support member <NUM>. For example, second bus bar <NUM> can be press or friction fit into slits <NUM>. It will be appreciated, however, that second bus bar <NUM> can be coupled with second support member <NUM> in any suitable manner. In addition, although not shown, second support member <NUM> can include channels extending along the vertical direction V on the inner side of the transverse members <NUM> for receiving side surfaces of second bus bar <NUM>. This may further secure second bus bar <NUM> in place. In addition, as shown in <FIG>, second bus bar <NUM> is spaced apart from first bus bar <NUM> along the transverse direction T. Specifically, second bus bar <NUM> is spaced rearward of first bus bar <NUM> along the transverse direction T. Second bus bar <NUM> is also electrically isolated from first support member <NUM> as well.

Referring again to <FIG>, like first support member <NUM>, insulating member <NUM>, and first bus bar <NUM>, second support member <NUM> defines one or more fastener apertures <NUM> extending between front surface <NUM> and rear surface <NUM> of lateral members <NUM> of second support member <NUM>. As shown, one fastener aperture <NUM> is located proximate top portion <NUM> of left hand track 180A and one fastener aperture <NUM> is located proximate bottom portion <NUM>. When left hand track 180A is assembled, each fastener aperture <NUM> of second support member <NUM> is in communication with a corresponding fastener apertures <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of first support member <NUM>, insulating member <NUM>, and first bus bar <NUM>, respectively. In this way, apertures <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> receive mechanical fasteners <NUM> for securing left hand track 180A with cabinet <NUM> of refrigerator appliance <NUM> (<FIG>).

Second bus bar <NUM>, like first bus bar <NUM>, is formed of an electrically conductive material and is communicatively coupled with centralized hub <NUM> via USB conduit <NUM>, which is in turn communicatively coupled with controller <NUM>. For this embodiment, second bus bar <NUM> is communicatively coupled, or more specifically in electrical communication, with centralized hub <NUM> via a power wire of USB conduit <NUM>, and thus, second bus bar <NUM> is electrically charged with the power charge VCC as depicted in <FIG>. That is, a voltage is carried via the power wire of the USB conduit <NUM>, and as the power wire is electrically connected to second bus bar <NUM>, second bus bar <NUM> is charged with the power charge VCC by the voltage carried by the power wire.

Second bus bar <NUM> can be any suitable electrically conducting material, such as stainless steel, for example. Second bus bar <NUM> extends in the vertical direction V between top portion <NUM> and bottom portion <NUM> of left hand track 180A. Second bus bar <NUM> also extends in the lateral direction L between first side portion <NUM> and second side portion <NUM>. Second bus bar <NUM> includes a front surface <NUM> and a rear surface <NUM>, both of which are substantially planar with the lateral direction L, and two side surfaces <NUM> that are substantially planar with the transverse direction T and connect front and rear surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of second bus bar <NUM>. As noted above, second bus bar <NUM> is coupled with second support member <NUM>. Notably, first bus bar <NUM> and second bus bar <NUM> of left hand track 180A extend substantially between the top portion <NUM> and the bottom portion <NUM> of left hand track 180A. In this manner, when a shelf is mounted to left hand track 180A, the electrical connectors of the shelf can contact the bus bars <NUM>, <NUM> at any shelf mounting position.

As shown in <FIG>, middle track 180B is similarly configured as left hand track 180A depicted in <FIG> and <FIG> and described in the accompanying text, except as provided below. For this embodiment, first bus bar and second bus bar of middle track 180B are split into distinct and electrically isolated bus bars. Moreover, for this embodiment, the insulating member is also split (although it need not be in some embodiments). Accordingly, from front to back along the transverse direction T, middle track 180B includes a first support member <NUM>, a left insulating member <NUM> and a right insulating member 302R, a left first bus bar <NUM> and a right first bus bar 304R, a second support member <NUM>, and a left second bus bar <NUM> and a right second bus bar 308R. Left first bus bar <NUM> is aligned with the left second bus bar <NUM> along the lateral direction L and is spaced from left second bus bar <NUM> along the transverse direction T. Indeed, second support member <NUM> is positioned between left first bus bar <NUM> and left second bus bar <NUM> along the transverse direction T. Right first bus bar 304R is aligned with right second bus bar 308R along the lateral direction L and is spaced from right second bus bar 308R along the transverse direction T. As shown, second support member <NUM> is positioned between right first bus bar 304R and right second bus bar 308R along the transverse direction T. Left first bus bar <NUM> and left second bus bar <NUM> form a first pair of bus bars and right first bus bar 304R and right second bus bar 308R form a second pair of bus bars.

In some embodiments, middle track 180B includes a divider <NUM>, which is formed of a non-electrically conductive or insulating material and is operable to electrically isolate the electrically charged bus bars <NUM>, <NUM> of the left hand side of middle track 180B and electrically charged bus bars 304R, 308R of the right hand side of middle track 180B. That is, divider <NUM> is formed of an electrically insulating material and is positioned between the first pair of bus bars and the second pair of bus bars along the lateral direction L, wherein the first pair of bus bars includes left first bus bar <NUM> and left second bus bar <NUM> and the second pair of bus bars includes right first bus bar 304R and right second bus bar 308R.

As depicted in <FIG>, the left hand side of middle track 180B is associated with left hand track 180A. Particularly, left first bus bar <NUM> is communicatively coupled with centralized hub <NUM> via USB conduit <NUM> (<FIG>), which is in turn communicatively coupled with controller <NUM>. For this embodiment, left first bus bar <NUM> is communicatively coupled, or more specifically in electrical communication, with centralized hub <NUM> via a negative data wire of USB conduit <NUM>, and thus, left first bus bar <NUM> is electrically charged with a negative data charge D- as depicted in <FIG>. That is, a negative data signal is carried via the negative data wire of the USB conduit <NUM>, and as the negative data wire is electrically connected to left first bus bar <NUM>, left first bus bar <NUM> is charged with a negative data charge D-.

Similarly, left second bus bar <NUM> is communicatively coupled with centralized hub <NUM> via USB conduit <NUM> (<FIG>), which is in turn communicatively coupled with controller <NUM>. For this embodiment, left second bus bar <NUM> is communicatively coupled, or more specifically in electrical communication, with centralized hub <NUM> via a positive data wire of USB conduit <NUM>, and thus, left second bus bar <NUM> is electrically charged with a positive data charge D+ as depicted in <FIG>. That is, a positive data signal is carried via the positive data wire of the USB conduit <NUM>, and as the positive data wire is electrically connected to left second bus bar <NUM>, left second bus bar <NUM> is charged with positive data charge D+. Left first bus bar <NUM> and left second bus bar <NUM> collectively carry a differential signal to USB port <NUM> (<FIG>). It will be appreciated that bus bars <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> can be electrically charged with the GND, VCC, D-, and D+ in any suitable arrangement or combination and that the bus bars <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are charged in the manner in <FIG> as an example of one manner in which the bus bars <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> can be electrically charged.

First support member <NUM> is formed of an electrically conductive material as noted above. Thus, in some embodiments, first support member <NUM> can function as a shielding element of middle track 180B, as denoted by B in <FIG>. As first support member <NUM> functions as a shielding element, the effects of electromagnetic disturbances can be limited and USB devices connected to USB port <NUM> can be protected from external disturbances, such as transient bursts induced in USB conduit <NUM> (<FIG>).

As shown in <FIG>, right hand track 180C is similarly configured as left hand track 180A depicted in <FIG> and described in the accompanying text, except as provided below. From front to back along the transverse direction T, right hand track 180C includes a first support member <NUM>, an insulating member <NUM>, a first bus bar <NUM>, a second support member <NUM>, and a second bus bar <NUM>. For this embodiment, first bus bar <NUM> is an electrically conductive component and is communicatively coupled with centralized hub <NUM> via USB conduit <NUM> (<FIG>), which is in turn communicatively coupled with controller <NUM>. For this embodiment, first bus bar <NUM> is communicatively coupled, or more specifically in electrical communication, with centralized hub <NUM> via a negative data wire of USB conduit <NUM>, and thus, first bus bar <NUM> is electrically charged with a negative data charge D- as depicted in <FIG>. That is, a negative data signal is carried via the negative data wire of the USB conduit <NUM>, and as the negative data wire is electrically connected to first bus bar <NUM>, first bus bar <NUM> is charged with a negative data charge D-. First bus bar <NUM> can be any suitable electrically conducting material, such as stainless steel.

Second bus bar <NUM> is an electrically conductive component and is communicatively coupled with centralized hub <NUM> via USB conduit <NUM> (<FIG>), which is in turn communicatively coupled with controller <NUM>. For this embodiment, second bus bar <NUM> is communicatively coupled, or more specifically in electrical communication, with centralized hub <NUM> via a positive data wire of USB conduit <NUM>, and thus, second bus bar <NUM> is electrically charged with a positive data charge D+ as depicted in <FIG>. That is, a positive data signal is carried via the positive data wire of the USB conduit <NUM>, and as the positive data wire is electrically connected to second bus bar <NUM>, second bus bar <NUM> is charged with positive data charge D+. Second bus bar <NUM> can be any suitable electrically conducting material, such as stainless steel. First bus bar <NUM> and second bus bar <NUM> collectively carry a differential signal to USB port <NUM> (<FIG>).

First support member <NUM> is formed of an electrically conductive material as noted above. Thus, in some embodiments, first support member <NUM> can function as a shielding element of right hand track 180C, as denoted by B in <FIG>. As first support member <NUM> functions as a shielding element, the effects of electromagnetic disturbances can be limited and USB devices connected to USB port <NUM> can be protected from external disturbances, such as transient bursts induced in USB conduit <NUM> (<FIG>).

With reference now to <FIG> and <FIG>, as shown, the right hand side of middle track 180B is associated with right hand track 180C. Specifically, right first bus bar 304R is communicatively coupled with centralized hub <NUM> via USB conduit <NUM> (<FIG>), which is in turn communicatively coupled with controller <NUM>. For this embodiment, right first bus bar 304R is communicatively coupled, or more specifically in electrical communication, with centralized hub <NUM> via a ground wire of USB conduit <NUM>, and thus, right first bus bar 304R is electrically charged or designated as GND of the right hand side of middle track 180B as depicted in <FIG>.

In addition, right second bus bar 308R is communicatively coupled with centralized hub <NUM> via USB conduit <NUM> (<FIG>), which is in turn communicatively coupled with controller <NUM>. For this embodiment, right second bus bar 308R is communicatively coupled, or more specifically in electrical communication, with centralized hub <NUM> via a power wire of USB conduit <NUM>, and thus, right second bus bar 308R is electrically charged with the power charge VCC as depicted in <FIG>. That is, a voltage is carried via the power wire of the USB conduit <NUM>, and as the power wire is electrically connected to right second bus bar 308R, right second bus bar 308R is charged with the power charge VCC by the voltage carried by the power wire. It will be appreciated that bus bars 304R, 308R, <NUM>, <NUM> can be electrically charged with the GND, VCC, D-, and D+ in any suitable arrangement or combination and that the bus bars 304R, 308R, <NUM>, <NUM> are charged in the manner in <FIG> and <FIG> as an example of one manner in which the bus bars 304R, 308R, <NUM>, <NUM> can be electrically charged.

With general reference now to <FIG>, various views of one adjustable shelf <NUM> mounted to tracks 180B, 180C are provided according to exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter. In particular, <FIG> provides a front perspective view of adjustable shelf <NUM> mounted to middle track 180B and right hand track 180C; <FIG> provides a side view of adjustable shelf <NUM> of <FIG> mounted to middle track 180B; <FIG> provides a close-up view of Section A of <FIG>; and <FIG> provides another view of Section A of <FIG> with middle track 180B omitted for clarity.

With specific reference to <FIG>, adjustable shelf <NUM> includes a shelf panel <NUM> having a top surface and a bottom surface. A frame extends around a perimeter of shelf panel <NUM>. The frame includes a front member <NUM>, a rear member <NUM>, and a pair of side members <NUM>, 346R are affixed to the edges of shelf panel <NUM> around its perimeter. Front, rear, and side members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, 346R can be made of any suitable materials, such as metal or plastic, and shelf panel <NUM> can be made of any suitable material as well. In this embodiment, shelf panel <NUM> is a tempered glass.

Shelf <NUM> includes a pair of brackets attached to or formed integrally with shelf <NUM> for mounting shelf <NUM> to at least two of tracks 180A, 180B, 180C in one of the shelf mounting positions. For this embodiment, shelf <NUM> includes a left bracket <NUM> attached to left side member <NUM> and a right bracket 348R attached to right side member 346R. Left bracket <NUM> includes a body <NUM> that extends between a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM> along the transverse direction T. Left bracket <NUM> extends in the vertical direction V between a top end <NUM> and a bottom end <NUM>, which is shown more clearly in <FIG>. In a similar manner, right bracket 348R includes a body 350R that extends between a first end and a second end along the transverse direction T. Right bracket 348R also extends in the vertical direction V between a top end and a bottom end.

With reference specifically now to <FIG>, left bracket <NUM> includes a first tab <NUM> extending from second end <NUM> of body <NUM>. For this embodiment, first tab <NUM> extends from second end <NUM> in the transverse direction T and is located proximate top end <NUM> of left bracket <NUM>. First tab <NUM> includes a first electrical connector <NUM>, which is connected to a first wire <NUM> that provides for electrical communication between first electrical connector <NUM> and USB port <NUM> of shelf <NUM>. With the use of first wire <NUM>, left bracket <NUM> need not be an electrically conducting or corrosion-resistant material, as first wire <NUM> decouples the load bearing and electrical functionality of left bracket <NUM>. Although first wire <NUM> is illustrated as being visible in the figures, it will be appreciated that a casing or housing may hide first wire <NUM> from view in some exemplary embodiments. According to this invention, USB port <NUM> is located along a top surface of side member 346R.

As detailed in <FIG>, first tab <NUM> includes a hook <NUM> for securing shelf <NUM> to middle track 180B. Hook <NUM> includes a first curved surface <NUM> that transitions first tab <NUM> from a bracket face <NUM>, which may be a generally vertical face as shown, to a support face <NUM>, which extends substantially along transverse direction T and is substantially planar with the transverse and lateral directions T, L. When shelf <NUM> is inserted into one of the openings 182B (<FIG>) of middle track 180B, support face <NUM> of hook <NUM> engages a bottom edge of an aperture defined by first support member <NUM>. In this way, first support member <NUM> at least partially supports the weight of shelf <NUM> when it is mounted to middle track 180B.

A second curved surface <NUM> transitions support face <NUM> to a vertical face <NUM>. Vertical face <NUM> is oriented substantially along the vertical direction V and is substantially opposed to bracket face <NUM>. First electrical connector <NUM> is positioned on the hook <NUM>, and in particular, first electrical connector <NUM> is positioned on or is integral with the vertical face <NUM> of hook <NUM>. When hook <NUM> is inserted into one of the mounting openings 182B of middle track 180B, first electrical connector <NUM> positioned on vertical face <NUM> engages a rear surface of right first bus bar 304R, as shown in <FIG>. In this manner, first electrical connector <NUM> is in electrical communication with right first bus bar 304R. Moreover, as adjustable shelf <NUM> is cantilevered from middle track 180B when mounted thereto, first electrical connector <NUM> is biased in engagement with right first bus bar 304R as vertical face <NUM> tends to compress first electrical connector <NUM> with the rear surface of right first bus bar 304R, providing a secure mating of the two electrical components. Moreover, when first electrical connector <NUM> engages right first bus bar 304R, first wire <NUM> becomes electrically charged with the charge of right first bus bar 304R, which in this example embodiment is a ground charge GND as depicted in <FIG>. Thus, first wire <NUM> can carry the ground charge GND or provide a grounding wire to USB port <NUM>.

Referring still to <FIG> and <FIG>, left bracket <NUM> also includes a second tab <NUM> (<FIG>). Second tab <NUM> extends from second end <NUM> of body <NUM>. For this embodiment, second tab <NUM> extends from second end <NUM> in the transverse direction T and is located proximate bottom end <NUM> of left bracket <NUM>. As shown, a second electrical connector <NUM> (shown transparent in <FIG>) is positioned on or integral with second tab <NUM>. Second electrical connector <NUM> is connected to a second electrical wire <NUM> that provides for electrical communication between second electrical connector <NUM> and USB port <NUM> of shelf <NUM>. With the use of second wire <NUM>, left bracket <NUM> need not be an electrically conducting or corrosion-resistant material, as second wire <NUM> decouples the load bearing and electrical functionality of left bracket <NUM>. Although second wire <NUM> is illustrated as being visible in the figures, it will be appreciated that a casing or housing may hide second wire <NUM> from view in some exemplary embodiments. First wire <NUM> and second wire <NUM> can extend along left bracket <NUM> as shown in <FIG> and can extend to right bracket 348R along front member <NUM> and/or rear member <NUM> and then along right bracket 348R to USB port <NUM>.

With specific reference to <FIG>, when shelf <NUM> is mounted to middle track 180B at one of the shelf mounting positions, second electrical connector <NUM> is configured to be in electrical communication with right second bus bar 308R. Specifically, second electrical connector <NUM> contacts a front surface of right second bus bar 308R. A front surface of first support member <NUM> and the front surface of right second bus bar 308R define a depth D1 of mounting opening 182R. Stated alternatively, depth D1 of mounting opening 182R extends between the front surface of first support member <NUM> and the front surface of right second bus bar 308R. When shelf <NUM> is mounted to middle track 180B, left bracket <NUM> and its second electrical connector <NUM> extend a distance greater than the depth D1 of mounting opening 182R in such a way that second electrical connector <NUM> deflects right second bus bar 308R, biasing right second bus bar 308R against second electrical connector <NUM>. Biasing right second bus bar 308R against second electrical connector <NUM> provides a secure mating of the two electrical components. The deflection of right second bus bar 308R caused by second electrical connector <NUM> is exaggerated in <FIG> for illustrative purposes. When second electrical connector <NUM> engages right second bus bar 308R, second wire <NUM> becomes electrically charged with the charge of right second bus bar 308R, which in this example embodiment is a power or voltage charge VCC as depicted in <FIG>. Thus, second wire <NUM> can carry the power or voltage charge to USB port <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, right bracket 348R is shown mounted to right hand track 180C. Right bracket 348R of shelf <NUM> can be mounted to right hand track 180C in the same manner as described above with respect to left bracket <NUM> mounted to middle track 180B. Notably, when the first electrical connector of right bracket 348R engages first bus bar <NUM> a first wire (not shown) of right bracket 348R becomes electrically charged with the charge of first bus bar <NUM>, which in this example embodiment is a negative data charge D- as depicted in <FIG>. Thus, the first wire can carry the negative data charge to USB port <NUM>. Furthermore, when the second electrical connector of right bracket 348R engages second bus bar <NUM>, the second wire of right bracket 348R becomes electrically charged with the charge of second bus bar <NUM>, which in this example embodiment is a positive data charge D+ as depicted in <FIG>. Thus, the second wire can carry the positive data charge D+ to USB port <NUM>.

Accordingly, when shelf <NUM> is mounted to middle track 180B and right hand track 180C as depicted in <FIG>, the ground GND, power VCC, and data signal D-, D+ pins of USB port are electrically charged at least in part by the bus bars of middle track 180B and right hand track 180C. Particularly, functionality can be provided to USB port <NUM> by right first bus bar 304R of middle track 180B (<FIG>) and its associated electrical wiring providing the ground charge GND, right second bus bar 308R of middle track 180B (<FIG>) and its associated electrical wiring providing the power charge VCC, first bus bar <NUM> of right hand track 180C (<FIG>) and its associated electrical wiring providing the negative data charge D- of the data signal, and second bus bar <NUM> of right hand track 180C (<FIG>) and its associated electrical wiring providing the positive data charge D+ of the data signal. Thus, when a USB device is connected to USB port <NUM>, the bus bars of the tracks enable USB functionality. Notably, shelf <NUM> can be adjusted or moved between or to different shelf mounting positions along the tracks and due to the configuration of the tracks, USB functionality is enabled no matter the selected shelf mounting position. Moreover, it will be appreciated that shelves can be mounted to left hand track 180A and middle track 180B in the same or similar manner noted above with respect to middle track 180B and right hand track 180C.

With reference now to <FIG>, schematic top cross-sectional views of a first track or left hand track 180A and a second track or right hand track 180B are depicted. Left hand track 180A and right hand track 180B of <FIG> are similarly configured as the left hand track and right hand track of <FIG> and <FIG>, respectively. As will be appreciated in view of teachings disclosed herein, when a shelf is mounted to left hand track 180A and right hand track 180B at one of the shelf mounting positions, USB functionality is enabled when the electrical connectors engage the charged bus bars <NUM>, <NUM> of left hand track 180A and the charged bus bars <NUM>, <NUM> of right hand track 180C. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a two- track embodiment can provide a USB port of the shelf with USB functionality.

In some further embodiments, shelf mounting tracks can provide USB functionality to USB ports of multiple shelves disposed within a chamber of an appliance. For instance, <FIG> provides a schematic view of an example system for providing USB functionality to USB ports 172A, 172B, 172C of shelves 170A, 170B, 170C, respectively. As shown, the system includes a first or left hand track 180A and a second or right hand track 180C. Left hand track 180A and right hand track 180C of <FIG> can be configured in the same or similar manner as the left hand track and right hand track of <FIG> and <FIG>, respectively, except that the first and second bus bars of left hand track 180A and right hand track 180B are split into sections along the vertical direction V.

As shown in <FIG>, left hand track 180A includes a first bus bar pair 400A that includes a first bus bar 404A and a second bus bar 408A, a second bus bar pair 402A that includes a first bus bar 414A and a second bus bar 418A, and a third bus bar pair 406A that includes a first bus bar 424A and a second bus bar 428A. In a similar manner, right hand track 180C includes a first bus bar pair 400C that includes a first bus bar 404C and a second bus bar 408C, a second bus bar pair 402C that includes a first bus bar 414C and a second bus bar 418C, and a third bus bar pair 406C that includes a first bus bar 424C and a second bus bar 428C. First bus bar pair 400A is positioned above second bus bar pair 402A along the vertical direction V, and second bus bar pair 402A is positioned above third bus bar pair 406A along the vertical direction V. Similarly, first bus bar pair 400C is positioned above second bus bar pair 402C along the vertical direction V, and second bus bar pair 402C is positioned above third bus bar pair 406C along the vertical direction V. In some embodiments, electrically insulating dividers 420A, 422A and 420C, 422C can be positioned between the bus bar pairs along the vertical direction V, e.g., to electrically isolate the bus bars from adjacent bus bars. In some embodiments, a gap is defined between vertically adjacent bus bars.

Each bus bar 404A, 408A, 414A, 418A, 424A, 428A and 404C, 408C, 414C, 418C, 424C, 428C can be electrically charged with at least one of the power charge VCC, the ground charge GND, the positive data charge D+, and the negative data charge D-. For this embodiment, first bus bars 404A, 414A, and 424A are charged with a ground charge GND, second bus bars 408A, 418A, and 428A are charged with a power charge VCC, first bus bars 404C, 414C, and 424C are charged with a negative data charge D-, and second bus bars 408C, 418C, and 428C are charged with a positive data charge D+. All of the bus bars are electrically isolated from one another. The first support member of left hand track 180A and right hand track 180C can provide shielding functionality.

Notably, first bus bar 404A and second bus bar 408A of first bus bar pair 400A and first bus bar 404C and second bus bar 408C of first bus bar pair 400C are in electrical communication with the universal serial bus port 172A of first shelf 170A. First bus bar 414A and second bus bar 418A of second bus bar pair 402A and first bus bar 414C and second bus bar 418C of second bus bar pair 402C are in electrical communication with the universal serial bus port 172B of second shelf 170B. First bus bar 424A and second bus bar 428A of third bus bar pair 406A and first bus bar 424C and second bus bar 428C of third bus bar pair 406C are in electrical communication with the universal serial bus port 172C of third shelf 170C. Accordingly, for this embodiment, USB ports 172A, 172B, 172C of multiple shelves 170A, 170B, 170C can be enabled with USB functionality.

Referring again to <FIG>, in some example embodiments, a door USB assembly <NUM> of one or both of refrigerator doors <NUM> can enable transmission of digital data between controller <NUM> and a USB device connected to a USB port <NUM> located on a bin <NUM> or drawer positioned therein and can enable electrical power transmission to the connected USB device.

Referring now to <FIG>, door USB assembly <NUM> includes at least one storage bin <NUM>. In some embodiments, door USB assembly <NUM> can include a plurality of storage bins <NUM>. For example, as depicted in <FIG>, door USB assembly <NUM> includes three (<NUM>) storage bins <NUM>. Those of ordinary skill in the art, using the disclosures provided herein, will understand that any number of storage bins <NUM> can be used without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. Each storage bin <NUM> can include a USB port. For example, as depicted in <FIG>, each storage bin <NUM> includes USB port <NUM>. A USB device can be connected to any of the USB ports <NUM>. The USB ports <NUM> can be any suitable type of USB port. As will be discussed in greater detail herein, a track disposed on the door can facilitate digital data transmission between one of the USB ports <NUM> and a processing device, such as controller <NUM> (<FIG>), when one of the storage bins <NUM> is engaged with the track. Additionally, when multiple storage bins <NUM> are engaged with the track, the track can be configured to route digital data transmissions between controller <NUM> and each USB port <NUM> such that multiple USB devices can be connected at once.

Each storage bin <NUM> is mountable to refrigerator door <NUM> by one or more mounting devices <NUM> (as shown on <FIG>, some of which are depicted in phantom). A plurality of mounting devices <NUM> can be included on refrigerator door <NUM> such that each storage bin <NUM> can be mounted to refrigerator door <NUM> in a plurality of mounting positions. For example, refrigerator door <NUM> can extend between a top and a bottom, e.g., along the vertical direction V. One storage bin <NUM> can be mounted in a first position toward the top of refrigerator door <NUM>, or mounted in a second position toward the bottom of refrigerator door <NUM>. One storage bin <NUM> can also be mounted in any number of other mounting positions. In this way, each storage bin <NUM> is mountable in a number of mounting positions. Each storage bin <NUM> can further be configured to engage with the track regardless of whether the storage bin <NUM> is in the first position, the second position, or any other mounting position.

For this embodiment, the mounting devices <NUM> are nubbins. Each nubbin has an associated opposing nubbin and thus door <NUM> includes matched pairs of nubbins, wherein each matched pair of nubbins is configured to receive and support a storage bin <NUM>, e.g., as shown in <FIG>. Each matched pair of nubbins can be located at a consistent distance apart from each other such that one of the storage bins <NUM> can be mounted on any matched pair of nubbins.

<FIG> provides a perspective view of refrigerator door <NUM> and schematically depicts a track <NUM> of door USB assembly <NUM>. As shown, track <NUM> is disposed on door <NUM>. For instance, track <NUM> can be attached to an inner liner of door <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. Track <NUM> includes a plurality of USB lines <NUM>. For this embodiment, the USB lines <NUM> include a power line, a ground line, a positive data line, a negative data line, and shielding line. The power line is charged with a power charge VCC, the ground line is charged with a ground charge GND, the positive data line is charged with a positive data charge D+, the negative data line is charged with a negative data charge D-, and the shielding line is charged with a shielding charge. USB lines <NUM> are in electrical communication with a centralized hub <NUM> in electrical communication with controller <NUM> (<FIG>), e.g., via one or more USB conduits. Centralized hub <NUM> facilitates digital data transmissions between the controller <NUM> and the USB ports <NUM> of storage bin <NUM>. Track <NUM> also includes one or more connectors in electrical communication with the USB lines <NUM>. For this embodiment, track <NUM> includes a plurality of connectors <NUM>.

<FIG> provides a close up view of one example connector <NUM>. As shown, connector <NUM> has a plurality of electrically conducting plates <NUM>. Each plate <NUM> is in electrical communication or electrically connected with one of the USB lines <NUM>. Thus, as depicted, at least one of the plurality of plates <NUM> is charged with a power charge VCC, at least one of the plurality of plates <NUM> is charged with a ground charge GND, at least one of the plurality of plates <NUM> is charged with a positive data charge D+, at least one of the plurality of plates <NUM> is charged with a negative data charge D-, and for this embodiment, at least one of the plurality of plates <NUM> is charged with a shielding charge B. In some embodiments, optionally, connector <NUM> does not include a plate having a shielding charge.

<FIG> provides a side view of one example storage bin <NUM> according to example aspects of the present disclosure. As depicted, storage bin <NUM> has a USB port <NUM> and a plurality of electrical contacts <NUM>. For this embodiment, storage bin <NUM> has five (<NUM>) electrical contacts; however, in other embodiments, storage bin <NUM> has only four (<NUM>) electrical contacts. The plurality of electrical contacts <NUM> are in electrical communication with USB port <NUM> via bin USB lines <NUM>.

Moreover, for this embodiment, the electrical contacts <NUM> are spring pin contacts configured to make an electrical connection with track <NUM> when storage bin <NUM> is engaged with track <NUM>. Other types of electrical contacts <NUM> can be used as well. As depicted in <FIG>, the spring pin contacts <NUM> can be mounted on a side of storage bin <NUM>. In other embodiments, the spring pin connectors <NUM> can be located in any alternate location on storage bin <NUM>. Each spring pin contact <NUM> can include a spring (not depicted) configured to depress a contactor such that the contactor makes an electrical connection with one of the plates <NUM> of connector <NUM> when storage bin <NUM> is mounted to door <NUM>.

More particularly, when storage bin <NUM> is mounted to door <NUM> (<FIG>), each of the plurality of electrical contacts <NUM> of storage bin <NUM> engage a respective one of the plurality of plates <NUM> of connector <NUM> (<FIG>). When this occurs, the plurality of plates <NUM> are in electrical communication with USB port <NUM> of storage bin <NUM>. As the plates <NUM> are each charged with their respective charges VCC, GND, D+, D-, and optionally, B, the charges are passed from the plates <NUM> of connector <NUM> to electrical contacts <NUM> of storage bin <NUM> and are carried by bin USB lines <NUM> to respective pins of USB port <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> provide example USB ports. As shown in <FIG>, some USB ports 502A can include four (<NUM>) pins <NUM>. One pin <NUM> corresponds to a power pin and is charged with the power charge VCC, one pin corresponds to a ground pin and is charged with the ground charge GND, one pin <NUM> corresponds to a positive data pin and is charged with the positive data charge D+, and one pin <NUM> corresponds to a negative data pin and is charged with the negative data charge D- when the contacts <NUM> engage their respective plates <NUM> of connector <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, some USB ports 502B can include five (<NUM>) pins <NUM> that correspond to pins described above with reference to <FIG>, and in addition, one pin <NUM> corresponds to a shield or shielding pin and is charged with the shielding charge (e.g., ground) when the contacts <NUM> engage their respective plates <NUM> of connector <NUM>. USB ports <NUM> (<FIG>) can be configured in the same or similar manner as USB ports 502A and/or 502B of <FIG> and <FIG>.

Digital data transmissions are routable between USB port <NUM> of storage bin <NUM> and controller <NUM> or some or processing device. For instance, a USB device connected with USB port <NUM> can send a data transmission to controller <NUM>. The data transmission is first routed to the pins of USB port <NUM>. The data transmission continues along the USB lines <NUM> to contact <NUM>. As the contacts <NUM> are engaged with their respective plates <NUM> of connector <NUM> of track <NUM>, the data transmission is transferred from bin <NUM> to door <NUM>. The data transmission continues along USB lines <NUM> of track <NUM> to centralized hub <NUM>. Centralized hub <NUM> can then route the data transmission to controller <NUM> (<FIG>) or some other processing device. As will be appreciated, data transmission and electrical power can be delivered to USB port <NUM> and a USB device connected thereto as noted above except in a reverse order.

With reference now to <FIG>, a perspective view of another refrigerator door <NUM> is provided. In <FIG>, a track <NUM> of a door USB assembly <NUM> is schematically depicted. For this embodiment, track <NUM> includes a plurality of connectors 564A, 564B, 564C, 564D, and 564E. Each connector 564A, 564B, 564C, 564D, and 564E is in electrical communication with centralized hub <NUM>, which is communicatively coupled with controller <NUM> (<FIG>). A USB conduit 562A having a plurality of USB lines electrically connects centralized hub <NUM> with connector 564A. Similarly, USB conduits 562B, 562C, 562D, 562E each having a plurality of USB lines electrically connect centralized hub <NUM> with the respective connectors 564B, 564C, 564D, 564E. The USB lines of each USB conduit 562A, 562B, 562C, 562D, 562E can include a power line, a ground line, a positive data line, a negative data line, and optionally, a shielding line. The power line is charged with a power charge, the ground line is charged with a ground charge the positive data line is charged with a positive data charge, the negative data line is charged with a negative data charge, and the shielding line is charged with a shielding charge.

Each connector 564A, 564B, 564C, 564D, and 564E has a plurality of plates. For instance, each connector 564A, 564B, 564C, 564D, and 564E can be similarly configured as the connector <NUM> of <FIG>. Notably, for each connector 564A, 564B, 564C, 564D, 564E at least one of the plurality of plates is charged with a power charge, at least one of the plurality of plates is charged with a ground charge, at least one of the plurality of plates is charged with a positive data charge, and at least one of the plurality of plates is charged with a negative data charge. In some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of plates is charged with a shielding charge.

In such embodiments, a plurality of storage bins <NUM> can be mounted to refrigerator door <NUM>, e.g., as shown in <FIG>. Each bin <NUM> can have a USB port and a plurality of electrical contacts, e.g., as shown in <FIG>. When the plurality of storage bins <NUM> are mounted to the refrigerator door <NUM> and the plurality of electrical contacts <NUM> of each of the plurality storage bins <NUM> engage a respective one of the plurality of plates <NUM> of each of the plurality of connectors 564A, 564B, 564C, 564D, 564E, digital data transmissions are routable between the USB port <NUM> of each of the plurality of storage bins <NUM> and the controller <NUM>. Stated differently, in some embodiments, multiple USB devices connected to the USB ports <NUM> can send data transmissions at the same time as USB door assembly <NUM> includes five (<NUM>) distinct connectors 564A, 564B, 564C, 564D, 564E in this example embodiment.

Claim 1:
An appliance (<NUM>) comprising:
a cabinet (<NUM>) defining a chamber;
a door (<NUM>) coupled to the cabinet (<NUM>) to provide selective access to the chamber; a first track (180A) disposed within the chamber of the cabinet (<NUM>), the first track
comprising:
a first bus bar (404A) electrically charged with at least one of a power charge, a ground charge, a positive data charge, and a negative data charge; and
a second bus bar (408A) electrically isolated from the first bus bar (404A) and electrically charged with at least one of the power charge, the ground charge, the positive data charge, and the negative data charge;
a second track (180B) disposed within the chamber of the cabinet (<NUM>) and spaced from the first track (180A), the second track comprising:
a first bus bar (414A) electrically charged with at least one of the power charge, the ground charge, the positive data charge, and the negative data charge; and
a second bus bar (418A) electrically isolated from the first bus bar (414A) of the second track, the second bus bar (418A) of the second track being electrically charged with at least one of the power charge, the ground charge, the positive data charge, and the negative data charge;
a shelf (170A, 170B, 170C) having a universal serial bus port (172A, 172B, 172C) and mounted to the first track (180A) and the second track such that the first bus bar and the second bus bar (408A) of the first track (180A) and the first bus bar (414A) and the second bus bar (418A) of the second track are in electrical communication with the universal serial bus port (172A, 172B, 172C), characterized in that the shelf (<NUM>) includes a shelf panel (<NUM>) having a top surface and a bottom surface, a frame extends around a perimeter of shelf panel (<NUM>), the frame includes a front member (<NUM>), a rear member (<NUM>), and a pair of side members (<NUM>, 346R) are affixed to the edges of shelf panel (<NUM>) around its perimeter, the universal serial bus port (<NUM>) is located along a top surface of side member (346R).