Patent Description:
Conventional refrigeration appliances, such as domestic refrigerators, typically have both a fresh food compartment and a freezer compartment or section. The fresh food compartment is where food items such as fruits, vegetables, and beverages are stored and the freezer compartment is where food items that are to be kept in a frozen condition are stored. The refrigerators are provided with a refrigeration system that maintains the fresh food compartment at temperatures above <NUM>, such as between <NUM> and <NUM> and the freezer compartments at temperatures below <NUM>, such as between <NUM> and -<NUM>.

The arrangements of the fresh food and freezer compartments with respect to one another in such refrigerators vary. For example, in some cases, the freezer compartment is located above the fresh food compartment and in other cases the freezer compartment is located below the fresh food compartment. Additionally, many modern refrigerators have their freezer compartments and fresh food compartments arranged in a side-by-side relationship. Whatever arrangement of the freezer compartment and the fresh food compartment is employed, typically, separate access doors are provided for the compartments so that either compartment may be accessed without exposing the other compartment to the ambient air.

Generally, when a user interacts with a drawer that selectively permits access to the freezer compartment, condensation will form at an interfacing region between the drawer and a liner of the freezer compartment. To reduce the amount of condensation, or to even prevent this phenomena from occurring, some refrigerators include a heating system secured about the interface between the door/drawer and the refrigerator cabinet, such as about an outer face of the liner. Specifically, such systems generally include tubes and/or electric resistive members disposed about the outer perimeter of the face of the liner.

In order to secure the heater / tubes to the liner, individual attachment means (e.g., clips, fasteners, adhesives, etc.) are used. Of note, these attachment means increase the cost and overall complexity of the assembly process. Specifically, adding subsequent elements to attach the heater / tube to the outer face of the liner not only increases the cost of the overall refrigerator (i.e., the additional cost per attachment part), but also the cost associated with set-up and change out operations with respect to manufacturing processes.

Document <CIT> discloses a refrigerator comprising all the technical features from the preamble of claim <NUM>.

Further relevant prior art documents are <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT>.

The present invention provides a refrigerator with a recessed pocket formed into a flange extending along a front face of a refrigerator liner, wherein a heater / tube is disposed within the recessed pocket and secured therein by inner and outer retention lugs that are arranged on the flange in a staggered formation. Due to this configuration, additional attachment means are no longer required and thus overall complexity of manufacturing/assembly is reduced.

In accordance with the invention, there is provided a refrigerator according to claim including a cabinet wherein a liner defines a compartment within the cabinet. The liner includes a front face circumscribing an access opening of said compartment. A flange extends outwards from the front face in a direction parallel to the front face and away from the access opening, the flange extends about a perimeter of the front face. A recessed pocket is formed into the flange along an extended portion of the front face. The liner further includes at least one inner retention lug positioned adjacent to, and extending a first distance over, the recessed pocket and located on a side of the recessed pocket closest to the front face, and at least one outer retention lug positioned adjacent to, and extending a second distance over, the recessed pocket and located on a side of the recessed pocket opposite from the inner retention lug. The refrigerator further includes a heat pipe disposed within the recessed pocket and secured therein by the inner and outer retention lugs. The heat pipe is configured to reduce and/or eliminate the formation of condensation around the front face of the liner.

The refrigerator according to the foregoing aspect further comprises a first partition that separates the compartment into a fresh food section and a freezer section. The heat pipe is only disposed within a portion of the recessed pocket that is formed into the flange that extends outwards from the front face only about the freezer section. The refrigerator also includes a second partition that separates the freezer section into a first zone and a second zone.

The heat pipe in the foregoing refrigerator is a condenser tube of an evaporative cooling system. The condenser tube includes first and second ends, wherein the first end of the condenser tube is connected to a discharge port of said evaporative cooling system and wherein the second end of the condenser tube is connected to an inlet port of said evaporative cooling system.

In the refrigerator, the front face of the freezer section comprises a first side segment, a second side segment, and a bottom segment. The first and second side segments are parallel and are both perpendicular to the bottom segment. Further the recessed pocket is formed into the flange extending outwards from the first side segment, the second side segment, and the bottom segment.

The condenser tube of the foregoing refrigerator comprises a first portion extending vertically along the first side segment of the front face, a second portion extending horizontally along the bottom segment of the front face, and a third portion extending vertically along the second side segment of the front face between the bottom segment of the front face and the second partition. The condenser tube further includes a first loop portion extending horizontally along the second partition between the first and second side segments of the front face, a fourth portion extending vertically along the second side segment of the front face between the second partition and the first partition, and a second loop portion extending horizontally along the first partition between the first and second side segments of the front face.

In the foregoing refrigerator, a plurality of inner retention lugs are equally spaced and disposed along the first and second side segments and the bottom segment of the front face. Further, a plurality of outer retention lugs are equally spaced and disposed along the first and second side segments and the bottom segment of the front face.

According to the present invention, the inner retention lug is arranged on the flange in a staggered formation with respect to the outer retention lug. Further, the inner retention lug has a first length spanning between a first forward end and a first rearward end, and the outer retention lug has a second length spanning between a second forward end and a second rearward end. Further still, the staggered formation is defined by the inner and outer retention lugs being positioned about the recessed pocket such that the first forward end of the inner retention lug is disposed adjacent the second rearward end of the outer retention lug, without said inner and outer retention lugs overlapping.

In the foregoing refrigerator, the liner, front face, flange, recessed pocket, and inner and outer retention lugs are all formed integral into a single piece.

The heat pipe in the foregoing refrigerator is secured within the recessed pocket only by the inner and outer retention lugs.

The flange in the foregoing refrigerator is configured such that the inner and outer retention lugs secure the heat pipe within the recessed pocket such that the heat pipe does on protrude beyond an imaginary plane upon which the front face lies.

In the foregoing refrigerator, the flange is configured such that the inner and outer retention lugs secure the heat pipe within the recessed pocket such that the inner and outer retention lugs do not protrude beyond an imaginary plane upon which the front face lies.

<FIG> show embodiments according to the present invention, which disclose a refrigerator according to claim <NUM>, whereas <FIG> show examples not being part of the present invention.

Referring now to the drawings, <FIG> shows a refrigeration appliance in the form of a domestic refrigerator, indicated generally at <NUM>. Although the detailed description that follows concerns a domestic refrigerator <NUM>, the invention can be embodied by refrigeration appliances other than with a domestic refrigerator <NUM>. Further, an embodiment is described in detail below, and shown in the figures as a bottom-mount configuration of a refrigerator <NUM>, including a fresh food compartment <NUM> disposed vertically above a variable climate zone (VCZ) compartment <NUM> and a freezer compartment <NUM>.

Two doors <NUM> shown in <FIG> are pivotally coupled to a cabinet <NUM> of the refrigerator <NUM> to restrict and grant access to the fresh food compartment <NUM>. The doors <NUM> are French-type doors that collectively span the entire lateral distance of the entrance to the fresh food compartment <NUM> to enclose the fresh food compartment <NUM>. A center flip mullion <NUM> (<FIG>) is pivotally coupled to at least one of the doors <NUM> to establish a surface against which a seal provided to the other one of the doors <NUM> can seal the entrance to the fresh food compartment <NUM> at a location between opposing side surfaces <NUM> (<FIG>) of the doors <NUM>. The mullion <NUM> can be pivotally coupled to the door <NUM> to pivot between a first orientation that is substantially parallel to a planar surface of the door <NUM> when the door <NUM> is closed, and a different orientation when the door <NUM> is opened. The externally-exposed surface of the center mullion <NUM> is substantially parallel to the door <NUM> when the center mullion <NUM> is in the first orientation, and forms an angle other than parallel relative to the door <NUM> when the center mullion <NUM> is in the second orientation. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the seal and the externally-exposed surface of the mullion <NUM> cooperate at a position offset from a centerline midway between the lateral sides of the fresh food compartment <NUM>. It is contemplated that the seal and the externally-exposed surface of the mullion <NUM> can cooperate approximately midway between the lateral sides of the fresh food compartment <NUM>.

A dispenser <NUM> (<FIG>) for dispensing at least ice pieces, and optionally water, can be provided on an exterior of one of the doors <NUM> that restricts access to the fresh food compartment <NUM>. The dispenser <NUM> includes a lever, switch, proximity sensor or other device that a user can interact with to cause frozen ice pieces to be dispensed from an ice bin (not shown) of an ice maker <NUM> disposed within the fresh food compartment <NUM>. Ice pieces from the ice maker <NUM> can exit the ice maker <NUM> through an aperture (not shown) and be delivered to the dispenser <NUM> via an ice chute (not shown), which extends at least partially through the door <NUM> between the dispenser <NUM> and the ice maker.

The refrigerator <NUM> includes an interior liner <NUM> (<FIG>) that defines the fresh food compartment <NUM>. The fresh food compartment <NUM> is located in the upper portion of the refrigerator <NUM> in this example and serves to minimize spoiling of articles of food stored therein. The fresh food compartment <NUM> accomplishes this by maintaining the temperature in the fresh food compartment <NUM> at a cool temperature that is typically above <NUM>, so as not to freeze the articles of food in the fresh food compartment <NUM>. It is contemplated that the cool temperature preferably is between <NUM> and <NUM>, more preferably between <NUM> and <NUM> and even more preferably between <NUM> and <NUM>. A separate fresh food evaporator (not shown) is dedicated to separately maintaining the temperature within the fresh food compartment <NUM> independent of the freezer compartment <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the temperature in the fresh food compartment <NUM> can be maintained at a cool temperature within a close tolerance of a range between <NUM> and <NUM>, including any subranges and any individual temperatures falling with that range. For example, other embodiments can optionally maintain the cool temperature within the fresh food compartment <NUM> within a reasonably close tolerance of a temperature between <NUM> and <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the VCZ compartment <NUM> is arranged vertically beneath the fresh food compartment <NUM>. The VCZ compartment <NUM> can operate at different user-selectable temperatures as either a refrigerator (i.e., above-freezing) or a freezer (i.e., below-freezing). A control unit or user interface <NUM> is disposed on a front panel <NUM> of the VCZ compartment <NUM> to allow a user the ability to selectively operate the VCZ compartment <NUM> at one of a variety of temperatures including both true fresh food and freezing temperatures, for example, -<NUM>, -<NUM>, -<NUM> C, <NUM> and +<NUM>. The VCZ compartment <NUM> is fluidly in communication with the freezer compartment <NUM> and may include a heater (not shown) for heating the air conveyed to the VCZ compartment <NUM>, if desired. The front panel <NUM> is part of a drawer assembly <NUM> that can be withdrawn from the VCZ compartment <NUM> to grant a user access to food items stored in the VCZ compartment <NUM>. A handle <NUM> can be coupled to the front panel <NUM> to allow a user to pull the drawer assembly <NUM> to an extended position and thereby access the food items.

The freezer compartment <NUM> is arranged vertically beneath the VCZ compartment <NUM>. A drawer assembly <NUM> including one or more freezer baskets <NUM> can be withdrawn from the freezer compartment <NUM> to grant a user access to food items stored in the freezer compartment <NUM>. The drawer assembly can be coupled to a freezer door <NUM> that includes a handle <NUM>. When a user grasps the handle <NUM> and pulls the freezer door <NUM> open, at least one or more of the freezer baskets <NUM> is caused to be at least partially withdrawn from the freezer compartment <NUM>.

The freezer compartment <NUM> is used to freeze and/or maintain articles of food stored in the freezer compartment <NUM> in a frozen condition. For this purpose, the freezer compartment <NUM> is in thermal communication with a freezer evaporator (not shown) that removes thermal energy from the freezer compartment <NUM> to maintain the temperature therein at a temperature of <NUM> or less during operation of the refrigerator <NUM>, preferably between <NUM> and -<NUM>, more preferably between <NUM> and -<NUM> and even more preferably between <NUM> and -<NUM>. The freezer compartment <NUM> is also in communication with the VCZ compartment <NUM> such that a portion of the cooling air supplied to the freezer compartment <NUM> can be selectively supplied to the VCZ compartment <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, the liner <NUM> is depicted as defining various compartments within the cabinet <NUM> of the refrigerator <NUM>. Specifically, the liner <NUM> is shown as defining the fresh food compartment <NUM>, the VCZ compartment <NUM> and the freezer compartment <NUM>. The liner includes a rear wall 53a, first and second opposing side walls 53b, 53c, and a top wall 53d. Further, the liner <NUM> includes a front face <NUM> that circumscribes an access opening of the various compartments. The front face <NUM> is located at a distal end of the liner <NUM> and is parallel to the rear wall 53a of the liner <NUM>. Although the liner <NUM> is illustrated as being a singular element that defines all of the fresh food compartment <NUM>, the VCZ compartment <NUM> and the freezer compartment <NUM>, it is contemplated that separate liners could be used to define each compartment, or combinations thereof. In one optional example, a pair of liners could be used in which one liner defines the fresh food compartment, and a second liner defines the VCZ compartment and the freezer compartment. As shown, a first partition <NUM> is disposed within the cabinet <NUM>. The first partition <NUM> separates the cabinet <NUM> into a fresh food section (i.e., the fresh food compartment <NUM>) and a freezer section (i.e., the VCZ compartment <NUM> and the freezer compartment <NUM>). Further, a second partition <NUM> is disposed within the cabinet <NUM> and separates the freezer section into a first zone (i.e., the VCZ compartment <NUM>) and a second zone (i.e., freezer compartment <NUM>). Specifically, the first and second partitions <NUM>, <NUM> are both parallel to the top wall 53d and extend outwards from the rear wall 53a of the liner <NUM>. Moreover, the first and second partitions <NUM>, <NUM> extend between the first and second opposing side walls 53b, 53c of the liner <NUM>. In this particular embodiment, the first partition <NUM> is formed integral with the liner <NUM> such that the first partition <NUM> is formed simultaneously with the liner <NUM>, while the second partition <NUM> is a separate element from the liner <NUM> and is secured therein after the liner <NUM> has been formed. However, it is to be appreciated that in an alternate embodiment the reverse may be true. In yet other alternative embodiments, both of the first and second partitions <NUM>, <NUM> may be separate elements from the liner <NUM> and are secured therein after the liner <NUM> has been formed, or the first and second partitions <NUM>, <NUM> may be formed integral with the liner <NUM> such that the first and second partitions <NUM>, <NUM> are formed simultaneously with the liner <NUM>.

As best shown in <FIG>, a flange <NUM> extends outwards in a direction parallel to the front face <NUM> and away from the access opening. Further, the flange <NUM> extends about a perimeter of the front face <NUM>. That is, the flange <NUM> extends outwards from the front face <NUM> in a direction away from the compartments. In the illustrated example, the flange <NUM> extends outwards in a direction away from the compartments and perpendicular to an imaginary plane upon which the front face <NUM> lies. Although it is contemplated that the flange may extend outwards at various other angles. As such, in this example the flange <NUM> is parallel to the rear wall 53a of the liner <NUM>. Further, the flange <NUM> may extend around the entire front face <NUM> of the liner <NUM>. That is, in this particular embodiment, the flange <NUM> extends outwards from the front face <NUM> about all of the fresh food compartment <NUM>, the VCZ compartment <NUM> and the freezer compartment <NUM>. However, in alternative embodiments, the flange <NUM> extends outwards from the front face <NUM> only about the freezer section.

Moreover, the flange <NUM> is formed integral with the liner <NUM> such that the flange <NUM> and the liner <NUM> are formed simultaneously (e.g., during a molding operation). Alternatively, the flange <NUM> may be a separate and distinct element from the liner <NUM> which is subsequently attached thereto by securing means generally known in the art (e.g., adhesive, tab/slot configuration, etc.). Further, as will be discussed below, the liner <NUM> includes a recessed pocket <NUM> formed into the flange <NUM> along an extended portion of the front face <NUM>. Specifically, the recessed pocket <NUM> is formed into the portions of the flange <NUM> that extends outwards from the front face <NUM> about both the fresh food section and the freezer section. However, in alterative embodiments, the recessed pocket <NUM> can be formed into the portion of the flange <NUM> that extends outwards from the front face <NUM> about only one of the fresh food section and the freezer section.

Preferably, the recessed pocket <NUM> has a geometry that corresponds to that of the heat pipe to be received therein. The recessed pocket <NUM> can have a "U" shaped or "C" shaped cross-sectional geometry, and may include a pair of sidewalls connected by a curved bottom or a flat bottom. The recessed pocket <NUM> may be sufficiently deep to enable to the heat pipe to be fully received therein so that the heat pipe is located below the front face <NUM> of the flange <NUM>.

Moving on now to <FIG>, the front face <NUM> of the freezer section includes a first side segment <NUM>, a second side segment <NUM> and a bottom segment <NUM>. The first and second side segments <NUM>, <NUM> are parallel and are both perpendicular to the bottom segment <NUM>. Moreover, the recessed pocket <NUM> (see <FIG>) is formed into the flange <NUM> extending outwards from the first side segment <NUM>, the second side segment <NUM>, and the bottom segment <NUM>. Moreover, a heat pipe is disposed within the recessed pocket <NUM> in order to reduce and/or eliminate the formation of condensation around the front face <NUM> of the liner <NUM>. Specifically, in the shown example, the heat pipe is a condenser tube <NUM> of an evaporative cooling system. The condenser tube <NUM> includes first and second ends that are connected to a discharge port and an inlet port on the "warm" side of the evaporative cooling system, respectively, to discharge heat into the external environment. Alternatively, it is contemplated that the heat pipe could be an electric resistive heater element, or other heating device.

As shown, the condenser tube <NUM> is only disposed within a portion of the recessed pocket <NUM> that is formed into the flange <NUM> that extends outwards from the front face <NUM> only about the freezer section. Specifically, the condenser tube <NUM> includes a first portion <NUM> that extends vertically along the first side segment <NUM>. The first portion <NUM> of the condenser tube <NUM> may optionally extend directly from the evaporative cooling system, or alternatively may extend from other portions of the refrigerator, such as from about the fresh food compartment. That is, the first portion <NUM> of the condenser tube <NUM> is disposed within the recessed pocket <NUM> located on the first side segment <NUM> of the front face <NUM>. Further, the condenser tube <NUM> includes a second portion that extends horizontally along the bottom segment <NUM> of the front face <NUM>. In other words, the second portion <NUM> of the condenser tube <NUM> is disposed within the recessed pocket <NUM> located on the bottom segment <NUM> of the front face <NUM>. The condenser tube <NUM> further still includes a third portion <NUM> that extends vertically along the second side segment <NUM> of the front face <NUM> between the bottom segment <NUM> of the front face <NUM> and the second partition <NUM>. That is, the third portion <NUM> of the condenser tube <NUM> is disposed within a part of the recessed pocket <NUM> located on the second side segment <NUM> of the front face <NUM> and positioned between the bottom segment <NUM> of the front face <NUM> and the second partition <NUM>.

The condenser tube <NUM> further includes a first loop portion that extends horizontally along the second partition <NUM> between the first and second side segments <NUM>, <NUM> of the front face <NUM>. In this way, the condenser tube <NUM> generally circumscribes the opening of the freezer compartment about which the freezer door seal will engage the liner. Specifically, the first loop portion includes a top portion 108a disposed above and spaced apart from a bottom portion 108b. The top and bottom portions 108a, 108b are disposed adjacent a front surface of the second partition <NUM>. Optionally, a first projection member <NUM> extends outwards from the front surface of the second partition <NUM> and is positioned vertically between the top and bottom portions 108a, 108b of the first loop portion so as to keep said portions 108a, 108b separated at a predetermined distance. The top and bottom portions 108a, 108b are continuously connected by way of a curved end portion 108c which is positioned adjacent the first side segment <NUM> of the front face <NUM>.

Further still, the condenser tube <NUM> also generally circumscribes the opening of the VCZ compartment about which the VCZ door seal will engage the liner. Specifically, the condenser tube <NUM> includes a fourth portion <NUM> that extends vertically along the second side segment <NUM> of the front face <NUM> between the second partition <NUM> and the first partition <NUM>. In other words, the fourth portion <NUM> of the condenser tube <NUM> is disposed within a part of the recessed pocket <NUM> located on the second side segment <NUM> of the front face and positioned between the second partition <NUM> and the first partition <NUM>.

The condenser tube <NUM> still further includes a second loop portion that extends horizontally along the first partition <NUM> between the first and second side segments <NUM>, <NUM> of the front face <NUM>. Specifically, the second loop portion includes a top portion 111a disposed above and spaced apart from a bottom portion 111b. The top and bottom portions 111a, 111b are disposed adjacent a front face of the first partition <NUM>. Further, a second projection member <NUM> extends outwards from the front surface of the first partition <NUM> and is positioned vertically between the top and bottom portions 111a, 111b of the second loop portion so as to keep said portions 111a, 111b separated at a predetermined distance. The top and bottom portions 111a, 111b are continuously connected by way of a curved end portion 111c which is positioned adjacent the first side segment <NUM> of the front face <NUM>. Portion 111a of the condenser tube <NUM> may optionally return directly back to the evaporative cooling system, or alternatively may extend towards other portions of the refrigerator, such as about the fresh food compartment.

As will now be described in detail, the condenser tube <NUM> is secured within the recessed pocket <NUM> by retention lugs. The condenser tube <NUM> may be secured within the recessed pocket <NUM> only by the retention lugs. In alternative embodiments, the condenser tube <NUM> may be secured within the recessed pocket <NUM> by retention lugs as well as other members (e.g., adhesives, fasteners, etc.). As best shown in <FIG>, the liner <NUM> includes at least one inner retention lug <NUM>. The inner retention lug <NUM> is positioned adjacent to, and extends a first distance over, the recessed pocket <NUM>. Further the inner retention lug is located on a side of the recessed pocket closest to the front face <NUM>. The liner <NUM> further includes at least one outer retention lug <NUM>. The outer retention lug <NUM> is positioned adjacent to, and extends a second distance over, the recessed pocket <NUM>. In other words, each of the inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM> partially cover the open upper end of the recessed pocket <NUM> at their respective locations. Further, the outer retention lug <NUM> is located on a side of the recessed pocket <NUM> opposite from the inner retention lug <NUM>. Moreover, the inner retention lug <NUM> is arranged on the flange <NUM> in a staggered formation with respect to the outer retention lug <NUM>. In this embodiment, the inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM> are formed integral with the flange <NUM>. That is, the liner <NUM>, front face <NUM>, flange <NUM>, recessed pocket <NUM>, and inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM> are formed integral into a single piece during a forming operation (e.g., molding process). Optionally, the retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM> could be separately attached.

As shown, the first distance that the inner retention lug <NUM> extends over the recessed pocket <NUM> is less than the total width of the recessed pocket <NUM>. However, in alternative embodiments, the first distance that the inner retention lug <NUM> extends over the recessed pocket <NUM> may be greater than the total width of the recessed pocket <NUM>. For example, the first distance may be greater than the total width of the recessed pocket <NUM> and the inner retention lug <NUM> may be spaced outwards from the flange <NUM> in order to ensure a clearance between the inner retention lug <NUM> and the flange <NUM> so as to permit installation of the condenser tube <NUM> within the recessed pocket <NUM>.

It is noted that the flange <NUM> is configured such that the inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM> secure the condenser tube <NUM> within the recessed pocket <NUM> such that the condenser tube <NUM> does not protrude beyond the imaginary plane upon which the front face <NUM> lies. The flange <NUM> is further configured such that the inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM> secure the condenser tube <NUM> within the recessed pocket <NUM> such that the inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM> do not protrude beyond the imaginary plane upon which the front face <NUM> lies. That is, in one example, the flange <NUM> may be distanced from the front face <NUM> in a rearward direction (i.e., towards a rear of the refrigerator) such that neither the condenser tube <NUM> nor the inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM> protrude beyond the imaginary plane upon which the front face <NUM> lies. In another example, the inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM> may not extend beyond a front surface of the flange <NUM> and the recessed pocket <NUM> may be sufficiently deep such that neither the inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM> nor the condenser tube <NUM> protrudes beyond said imaginary plane.

Additionally, the first and second distances that the inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM> extend over the recessed pocket <NUM>, respectively, may be the same. Alternatively, the first and second distances that the inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM> extend over the recessed pocket <NUM>, respectively, may be different.

The inner retention lug <NUM> has a first length spanning between a first forward end 115a and a first rearward end 115b. Further, the outer retention lug <NUM> has a second length spanning between a second forward end 116a and a second rearward end 116b. In this manner, the staggered formation is defined by the inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM> being positioned about the recessed pocket <NUM> such that the first forward end 115a of the inner retention lug <NUM> is disposed adjacent, and preferably spaced a distance apart from, the second rearward end 116b of the outer retention lug, without said inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM> horizontally overlapping. Further still, the first and second lengths of the inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively, may be the same or different.

With reference to <FIG>, a plurality of inner retention lugs <NUM> are equally spaced and disposed along the first and second side segments <NUM>, <NUM> and the bottom segment <NUM> of the front face <NUM>. Further, a plurality of outer retention lugs <NUM> are equally spaced and disposed along the first and second side segments <NUM>, <NUM> and the bottom segment <NUM> of the front face <NUM>. For example, as shown, a group of retention lugs may include one inner retention lug <NUM> and one outer retention lug <NUM>, wherein the first side segment <NUM>, second side segment <NUM> and the bottom segment <NUM> have at least one group of retention lugs. Alternatively, the group of retention lugs can include any number of inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM> (e.g., two spaced apart inner retention lugs <NUM> with an outer retention lug <NUM> disposed therebetween, or vice versa). In further alternative embodiments, the inner and/or outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM> can be spaced variously along the front face <NUM>, such as periodically, in various patterns, or even randomly.

Due to the above-described configuration, the inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM> cause an interference fit with the condenser tube <NUM> during the installation of said condenser tube <NUM> into an installed position within the recessed pocket <NUM>. As such, during assembly, the condenser tube <NUM> is installed within the recessed pocket <NUM> by being "snap-fit" beyond the inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM>. In this manner, no additional elements are required to secure the condenser tube <NUM> within the recessed pocket <NUM>. Further, due to the interference "snap-fit", the condenser tube <NUM> is retained within the recessed pocket <NUM> by the inner and outer retention lugs <NUM>, <NUM>. The condenser tube <NUM> can be installed into the recessed pocket <NUM> in sections proceeding around the liner, or the entire condenser tube <NUM> can be installed into the recessed pocket <NUM> at one time.

A separate example of the refrigerator <NUM>, which is not part of the present invention, will now be described with reference to a drawer assembly. It is understood that the foregoing disclosure of the various elements of the refrigerator <NUM> are separate and distinct from the additional examples discussed below. That is, while the following example details elements of the refrigerator <NUM> according to the foregoing embodiment, the former is not limited to the configuration of the latter and may be employed in other refrigerator configurations. The following described example may be used together with, or entirely separate from, the previous embodiment.

As depicted in <FIG>, the refrigerator <NUM> includes multiple cooled compartments (i.e., fresh food compartment <NUM>, VCZ compartment <NUM>, and freezer compartment <NUM>) defined by opposed, first and second interior walls 53b, 53c. Both the VCZ compartment <NUM> and the freezer compartment <NUM> include a respective drawer assembly <NUM>, <NUM>. With reference to <FIG>, the drawer assembly <NUM> of the freezer compartment <NUM> will be described in detail.

As shown, the drawer assembly <NUM> includes a basket <NUM> that moves relative to the freezer compartment <NUM>. The basket <NUM> includes a body <NUM> having a storage space therein for storing food. The storage space is defined by a front wall <NUM>, a rear wall <NUM>, opposing side walls 204a, 204b, and a bottom. The opposing side walls 204a, 204b are adjacent the first and second interior walls 53b, 53c of the freezer compartment <NUM>. Further, a pair of slots <NUM> are formed lengthwise into the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM> of the body <NUM>, respectively. The pair of slots <NUM> are apertures formed into and extending completely through the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively. Still further, the pair of slots <NUM> do not extend the entire length of the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively. The pair of slots <NUM> define a pair of tracks <NUM>, respectively, which extend outwards and away from the storage space in a lateral direction with respect to the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM>.

The drawer assembly <NUM> further includes a divider <NUM> disposed within the storage space for dividing the storage space into multiple areas. The divider <NUM> includes a main surface <NUM> positioned perpendicular to and extending between the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM>. A bottom <NUM> of the divider <NUM> is shaped to correspond to an interior surface of the bottom of the basket <NUM>. A handle may be provided towards a top surface of the divider <NUM> so that a user can easily grasp and slidingly move the divider <NUM> to the desired location.

The divider <NUM> further includes a pair of ends 209a, 209b that are arranged perpendicular to the main surface <NUM> of the divider <NUM>. A pair of carriages 210a, 210b are attached to the pair of ends 209a, 209b, respectively. In other words, one carriage of the pair of carriages 210a, 210b is secured to each end of the pair of ends 209a, 209b. The carriage is secured to the end of the divider <NUM> by screws or bolts; however, it is understood that other securing means may be used (e.g., snaps, clips, adhesives, etc.). Further still, the pair of carriages 210a, 210b can be formed integral with the divider <NUM> such that the pair of carriages 210a, 210b and the divider <NUM> are formed simultaneously (e.g., during a molding operation).

In an installed position, the pair of carriages 210a, 210b are positioned within the pair of slots <NUM>, respectively. Preferably, each carriage preferably has an elongated structure to thereby counter-act torque forces (and increased friction) that might otherwise be applied thereto during manual movement of the divider <NUM>. Optionally, each carriage has one or more roller elements, such as wheels, that facilitate motion of the carriage along the tracks. If wheels are present, preferably there are a plurality of wheels arranged along the length of each carriage. Further, the pair of carriages 210a, 210b engage with and travel along the pair of tracks <NUM> so as to promote movement of the divider <NUM> within the storage space to thereby selectively increase and/or decrease the relative sizes of the two storage areas.

As noted above, because the pair of slots <NUM> do not extend the entire length of the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM>, the divider <NUM> cannot be positioned directly adjacent (i.e., in physical contact with) the opposing side walls 204a, 204b, and as such, the divider <NUM> divides the storage space into two storage areas at all times. Additionally, the length of the slots <NUM> thereby determine the relative maximum and minimum size of the two storage areas. Further, because the bottom <NUM> of the divider <NUM> is shaped to correspond to the interior surface of the bottom of the basket <NUM>, as the divider moves within the storage area (i.e., traversing in a direction parallel to the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM>), the bottom <NUM> of the divider <NUM> may contact the bottom of the basket <NUM>. In this manner, an uninterrupted movement can be achieved. Alternatively, a space may be provided between the bottom <NUM> of the divider <NUM> and the interior surface of the bottom of the basket <NUM> such that the bottom <NUM> of the divider <NUM> does not contact the basket <NUM> in any position.

The drawer assembly <NUM> also includes a pair of caps <NUM> that, in the installed position, are secured to the pair of tracks <NUM>, respectively. In this manner, the pair of caps <NUM> enclose the pair of slots <NUM>, respectively, from outside of the body <NUM> of the drawer assembly <NUM>. Alternatively, the pair of slots <NUM> can be apertures formed into but not extending completely through the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM> by integrally including the caps as non-removable walls.

Moving on to <FIG>, the drawer assembly <NUM> of the VCZ compartment <NUM> will now be described in detail. As shown in <FIG>, the drawer assembly <NUM> includes a basket <NUM> that moves relative to the VCZ compartment <NUM>. The basket <NUM> includes a body <NUM> having a storage space therein for storing food. The storage space is defined by a front wall <NUM>, a rear wall <NUM>, opposing side walls 304a, 304b, and a bottom. The opposing side walls 304a, 304b are adjacent the first and second interior walls 53b, 53c of the VCZ compartment <NUM>. Further, a pair of slots <NUM> are formed lengthwise into the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM> of the body <NUM>, respectively. The pair of slots <NUM> are apertures formed into and extending completely through the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively.

As depicted, the pair of slots <NUM> extend the entire length of the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively. Alternatively, the pair of slots <NUM> may not extend the entire length of the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively. Further, the pair of slots <NUM> define a pair of tracks <NUM>, respectively, which extend outwards and away from the storage space in a lateral direction with respect to the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM>.

The drawer assembly <NUM> for the VCZ compartment <NUM> further includes a divider disposed within the storage space for dividing the storage space into multiple areas. Specifically, in this example embodiment, the divider includes a first divider member <NUM> and a second divider member <NUM>, both of which having a "U" shaped geometry. The first and second divider members <NUM>, <NUM> are selectively separable from one another. That is, in an attached state, the first and second divider members <NUM>, <NUM> may be selectively secured to one another via attaching means (i.e., tab and slot configurations, etc.) such that, movement of one of the first and second divider members <NUM>, <NUM> will likewise move the other. Further, in a separated state, the first and second divider members <NUM>, <NUM> are separated from one another such that the first and second divider members <NUM>, <NUM> are independently movable within the storage space.

The first divider member <NUM> will now be described in detail. It is to be understood that the second divider member <NUM> has the same structure as that of the first divider member <NUM>, although they could be different. For brevity, disclosure with respect to the configuration of the second divider member <NUM> is omitted herefrom.

The first divider member <NUM> includes a main surface <NUM> positioned perpendicular to and extending between the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM>. Further, a bottom <NUM> of the first divider member <NUM> is shaped to correspond to a shape of the bottom of the basket <NUM>. Specifically, as shown, the bottom <NUM> is planar and parallel to the bottom of the basket <NUM>. Although not shown, the divider members <NUM>, <NUM> may each include a handle.

The first divider member <NUM> includes a pair of ends 311a, 311b that are arranged perpendicular to the main surface <NUM> of the first divider member <NUM>. A pair of carriages 312a, 312b are attached to the pair of ends 311a, 311b, respectively. That is, one carriage of the pair of carriages 312a, 312b is secured to each end of the pair of ends 311a, 311b. Optionally, the pair of ends 311a, 311b each includes bearings <NUM>.

In an installed position, the pair of carriages 312a, 312b are positioned within the pair of slots <NUM>, respectively. Further, the pair of carriages 312a, 312b engage with and travel along the pair of tracks <NUM> so as to promote movement of the first divider member <NUM> within the storage space. Preferably, each carriage preferably has an elongated structure to thereby counter-act torque forces (and increased friction) that might otherwise be applied thereto during manual movement of the divider <NUM>. Optionally, each carriage has one or more roller elements, such as wheels, that facilitate motion of the carriage along the tracks. If wheels are present, preferably there are a plurality of wheels arranged along the length of each carriage. Further, the bearings <NUM> positioned on each of the pair of ends 311a, 311b contact an interior surface of the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively, which ensures smooth movement of the first divider member <NUM> in a direction between the opposing side walls 304a, 304b of the basket <NUM>.

As noted above, the pair of slots <NUM> extend the entire length of the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM>. As such, the first divider member <NUM> can be positioned directly adjacent (i.e., in physical contact with) the opposing side wall 304a. Due to this configuration, when both the first and second divider members <NUM>, <NUM> are in the installed position, the first and second divider members <NUM>, <NUM> can be separately positioned directly adjacent the opposing side walls 304a, 304b, respectively, such that the storage space is undivided. From this arrangement, moving either the first divider member <NUM> or the second divider member <NUM> away from its respective opposing side wall 304a, 304b divides the storage space into two storage areas. Further still, if both the first and second divider members <NUM>, <NUM> are moved away from their respective opposing side walls 304a, 304b, and are not combined together (i.e., the first and second divider members <NUM>, <NUM> are in the separated state) then the storage space is divided into three storage areas. Lastly, if the first and second divider members <NUM>, <NUM> coupled together in the combined state, then the storage space is divided into three storage areas with the area between the first and second divider members <NUM>, <NUM> being fixed at a predetermined size.

Further still, the drawer assembly <NUM> also includes a pair of caps <NUM> that, in the installed position, are secured to the pair of tracks <NUM>, respectively. In this manner, the pair of caps <NUM> enclose the pair of slots <NUM>, respectively, from outside of the body <NUM> of the drawer assembly <NUM>. Alternatively, the pair of slots <NUM> can be apertures formed into but not extending completely through the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM> by integrally including the caps as non-removable walls.

Moving on, <FIG> details an alternative example of the drawer assembly <NUM> for the VCZ compartment <NUM>. Specifically, as shown, each track of the pair of tracks <NUM> includes an extension member <NUM> that protrudes vertically upwards. Further, each carriage of the pair of carriages 312a, 312b for each of the first and second divider members <NUM>, <NUM> includes at least one wheel <NUM>. In the installed position, the wheel <NUM> engages a vertically oriented surface of the extension member <NUM> of the track <NUM> in order to promote smooth motion of the first and/or second divider members <NUM>, <NUM> within the storage space. Although the extension member <NUM> is illustrated towards the bottom of the tracks <NUM>, it is contemplated that the extension member <NUM> could be located towards the top of the tracks <NUM>, and the wheels <NUM> could be likewise positioned on the top of the carriages 312a, 312b. Further, the extension member <NUM> could be located on both the top and bottom of the tracks <NUM>, with wheels located on either or both of the top and bottom of the carriages 312a, 312b.

Optionally, as further shown in <FIG>, the drawer assembly <NUM> of the VCZ compartment <NUM> includes a storage bin <NUM> positioned between the first and second divider members <NUM>, <NUM>. The storage bin <NUM> includes a body <NUM> defining a body storage area, and a lid <NUM> removably secured to the body <NUM>. The lid <NUM> provides selective access to the body storage area. For example, the lid <NUM> can be snap-fit to the body <NUM> such that the lid <NUM> can be completely separated from the body (i.e., no intervening members connecting the lid <NUM> to the body <NUM>). Alternatively the lid <NUM> may be removably secured to the body <NUM> by a hinge such that the lid <NUM> is rotatably connected to the body <NUM> to provide access to the body storage area.

The body <NUM> includes a downwardly oriented bracket <NUM> extending from a side wall of the body <NUM>. Specifically, the bracket <NUM> has a first portion that extends outwards and away from the body <NUM> in a horizontal direction and a second portion that extends downwards in a perpendicular direction with respect to the first portion. Although only a single bracket <NUM> is shown, it is contemplated that the body <NUM> may include a plurality of brackets, such as one on each opposite side for engagement with both of the first divider member <NUM> or second divider member <NUM>. The bracket <NUM> is shown as being formed integral with the body <NUM>. That is, the body <NUM> and bracket <NUM> are formed simultaneously (e.g., during a molding process). In alternative embodiments, the bracket <NUM> can be physically separate from the body <NUM> such that subsequent attachment (via fasteners, adhesives, etc.) is required after the body <NUM> has been formed.

In an installed positon, the bracket <NUM> interacts with the main surface <NUM> of either the first divider member <NUM> or second divider member <NUM> to secure the storage bin <NUM> thereto. For example, in the installed position, the main surface <NUM> of the second divider member <NUM> is positioned between the body <NUM> and the bracket <NUM> of the storage bin <NUM>. In this manner, the storage bin <NUM> is secured to the second divider member <NUM> and can slide along the main surface <NUM> of the second divider member <NUM> in a direction parallel to the opposing side walls 304a, 304b. To further promote the sliding relationship between the storage bin <NUM> and the second divider member <NUM>, a bottom portion <NUM> of the body <NUM> is shaped to correspond to a bottom portion of the second divider member <NUM>.

<FIG> also details an alternative example of the drawer assembly <NUM> for the VCZ compartment <NUM>. Specifically, the drawer assembly <NUM> includes a single "I"-shaped divider member <NUM> having a main surface <NUM> arranged perpendicular to the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM> of the basket. Further, the pair of ends of the divider member <NUM> include a first side portion <NUM> and a second side portion <NUM>, respectively. That is, the first and second side portions <NUM>, <NUM> are perpendicular to the main surface <NUM> and extend along a direction being parallel to the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively. As shown, the first and second side portions <NUM>, <NUM> include a pair of carriages 411a, 411b, respectively. Although the carriages 411a, 411b appear sim ilar to those shown and described in <FIG>, it is contemplated that carriages similar to those shown and described in <FIG> could be used instead. Optionally, bearings <NUM> are disposed on each of the first and second side portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the divider <NUM>. The bearings <NUM> engage with the interior surface of the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively. Although not shown, the divider member <NUM> may include a handle.

In this example, the main surface <NUM> of the divider member <NUM> is spaced away from the opposing side walls 304a, 304b, at all times, by the first and second side portions <NUM>, <NUM>. That is, if the divider member <NUM> is located in a position closest to the side wall 304a, the first and second side portions <NUM>, <NUM> will contact the side wall 304a and thus space the main surface <NUM> of the divider member <NUM> from the side wall 304a. The same is true if the divider member <NUM> is located in a position closest to the opposite side wall 304b. The length of the first and second side portions <NUM>, <NUM> from the main surface <NUM> thereby determine the relative maximum and minimum size of the two storage areas. As such, the storage space is divided into two storage areas at all times.

Yet another separate example of the refrigerator <NUM> will now be described with reference to an air tower, which may be used together with or entirely separate from the other examples and embodiments described herein. It is understood that the foregoing disclosure of the various elements of the refrigerator <NUM> are separate and distinct from the additional examples discussed below. That is, while the following example details elements of the refrigerator <NUM> according to the foregoing examples, the former is not limited to the configurations of the latter and may be employed in other refrigerator configurations.

An air tower <NUM> is depicted in <FIG> that is to be located within the fresh food compartment <NUM> of the refrigerator <NUM>, although it could be utilized in a freezer compartment. Specifically, the air tower <NUM> is positioned adjacent the rear wall 53a of the liner <NUM>. The air tower <NUM> has a front surface <NUM> and an opposing rear surface <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) and includes a plurality of exhaust openings <NUM> that place the air tower in fluid communication with the fresh food compartment <NUM>. Cooled airflow from a fresh food evaporator unit, or other airflow passage, may extend upwards behind the air tower <NUM> and be exhausted into the fresh food compartment via the plurality of exhaust openings <NUM>. The air tower <NUM> further includes at least one reception opening <NUM>. Both the plurality of exhaust openings <NUM> and the at least one reception opening <NUM> are apertures formed in the air tower. In other words, each of the exhaust openings <NUM> and reception openings <NUM> extends through the air tower <NUM> from the front surface <NUM> to the rear surface <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the air tower <NUM> includes an extension member <NUM> that extends outward and away from the rear surface <NUM> of the air tower <NUM>. Specifically, the extension member <NUM> circumscribes the reception opening <NUM> and includes opposing longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM>. Further, first and second clips 508a, 508b are positioned at the opposing longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively. The first and second clips 508a, 508b are arranged on the opposing longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively, such that the first and second clips 508a, 508b are horizontally aligned. The first and second clips 508a, 508b are formed integral with the extension member <NUM> such that the first and second clips 508a, 508b and the extension member <NUM> are formed simultaneously (e.g., during a molding operation). The first and second clips 508a, 508b have a flexible living hinge so as to be resiliently moveable with respect to the extension member <NUM>.

Further still, a plurality of first clips 508a-511a and a plurality of second clips 508b-511b can be positioned at the opposing longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM> of the extension member <NUM>, respectively, and can be arranged thereon such that each first clip 508a-511a is horizontally aligned with each respective second clip 508b-511b.

<FIG> depicts a ladder track or rail <NUM> that is use to support one or more shelf support arms within the refrigerator. The ladder track or rail <NUM> includes a front surface <NUM>, a side surface <NUM> and a rear surface <NUM>. The front, side, and rear surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are one continuous member that is shaped according to known processes (e.g., bending, rolling, extruding, etc.). A flange member <NUM> extends from a distal end of the front surface <NUM> in a rearward direction away from the front surface <NUM>. Further, the side surface <NUM> of the rail <NUM> includes at least one securing opening <NUM> that extends through the side surface <NUM> of the rail <NUM>. Further still, the front surface <NUM> of the rail <NUM> includes a plurality of receiving openings <NUM> that accept legs of a shelf therein.

In an installed position, as depicted in <FIG>, the rail <NUM> is secured to the rear wall 53a of the liner <NUM>. The rail <NUM> is shown as being secured to the rear wall 53a via a screw attached to a suitable anchor. Alternatively, the rail <NUM> may be secured to the rear wall 53a via other methods know to those skilled in the art (e.g., adhesives, slot and tab configurations, etc).

The air tower <NUM> is disposed adjacent the rear wall 53a of the liner <NUM> such that the reception opening <NUM> coincides with the location of the rail <NUM>. As shown, the rail <NUM> is positioned between the opposing longitudinal sides <NUM>, <NUM> of the extension member <NUM> and is removably attached thereto. Specifically, the first clip 508a is disposed within the securing opening <NUM> while the second clip 508b engages with the flange member <NUM> of the rail <NUM>. Of note, the flange member <NUM> does not contact the rear surface <NUM> of the rail <NUM>. As such, only one side (i.e., the side surface <NUM>) of the rail <NUM> includes the securing opening <NUM> configured to accept the first clip 508a therein. Further, both the first and second clips 508a, 508b are resilient members such that they can be bent in an outwards direction to allow installation and removal of the air tower <NUM>. This permits the entire air tower <NUM> to be readily affixed to the liner by way of a single snap-fit step. Additionally, although the clips 508a, 508b have been described as being located about a single ladder track, it is to be appreciated that refrigerators often include multiple shelf support rails, and the air tower <NUM> may include additional clips 508a, 508b arranged variously to engage with some or all of the other shelf support rails.

A further separate example of the refrigerator <NUM> will now be descried with reference to a center flip mullion assembly, which may be used together with or entirely separate from the other examples and embodiments described herein. As depicted in FIG. the refrigerator <NUM> includes a first door <NUM> pivotally coupled to the cabinet <NUM> at a first side, and a second door <NUM> pivotally coupled to the cabinet <NUM> at a second side, wherein the second side of the cabinet <NUM> is opposite the first side of the cabinet <NUM>. Further, as shown in <FIG>, the first and second doors <NUM> collectively span a lateral distance between the first and second sides such that the first and second doors <NUM> permit selective access to the fresh food compartment <NUM>. As briefly discussed above, a center flip mullion assembly <NUM> is positioned on one of the first and second doors <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, the center flip mullion assembly <NUM> includes a base member <NUM>, a body member <NUM> inserted within the base member <NUM>, and a front plate <NUM> positioned over the body member <NUM>. The center flip mullion assembly <NUM> further includes an adhesive <NUM>, such as an aluminum tape, and a heater <NUM>. Preferably, the heater <NUM> is an electric resistive heater element. The adhesive <NUM> may be disposed on either side of the heater <NUM>.

As depicted in <FIG>, the base member <NUM> includes a bottom wall <NUM> and first and second opposing side walls <NUM>, <NUM> that extend, in a perpendicular direction, away from the bottom wall <NUM> of the base member <NUM>. In an installed position, the body member <NUM> is inserted within the base member <NUM> and is positioned between the first and second opposing side walls <NUM>, <NUM>. Preferably, the body member <NUM> is an insulation foam.

The body member <NUM> includes a recess <NUM> defined between opposing first and second protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> which extend outwards and away from a front face <NUM> of the body member <NUM>. In the installed position, the front plate <NUM> is positioned over the body member <NUM> such that the front plate <NUM> extends between the first and second opposing side walls <NUM>, <NUM> and covers the recess <NUM>. The front plate <NUM> includes a front surface <NUM>, a rear surface <NUM>, and a raised portion <NUM>. The raised portion <NUM> is positioned to be substantially co-extensive with the ends of the first and second opposing side walls <NUM>, <NUM>. Preferably, the front plate <NUM> is a metal plate with a relatively high heat transfer coefficient. The adhesive <NUM> is disposed on a portion of the rear surface <NUM> of the front plate <NUM> and the heater <NUM> is attached to the adhesive <NUM> such that, in the installed position, the heater <NUM> is positioned in close proximity to the rear face of the front plate <NUM> and within the recess <NUM>. In this manner, the heater <NUM> is disposed in an area positioned directly between the front plate <NUM> (via the adhesive <NUM>) and the body member <NUM>.

As further shown, a first gap is defined between the first opposing side wall <NUM> and the raised portion <NUM>, and a second gap is defined between the second opposing side wall <NUM> and the raised portion <NUM>. First and second gaskets <NUM>, <NUM> are positioned within the first and second gaps, respectively. Preferably, the first and second gaskets <NUM>, <NUM> comprise a high temperature plastic material that act as insulators between the relatively warm front plate <NUM> and the opposing side walls <NUM>, <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A refrigerator (<NUM>) comprising:
a cabinet (<NUM>);
a liner (<NUM>) defining a compartment within the cabinet, the liner comprising:
a front face (<NUM>) circumscribing an access opening of said compartment;
a flange (<NUM>) extending outwards from the front face in a direction parallel to the front face and away from the access opening, the flange extending about a perimeter of the front face;
a recessed pocket (<NUM>) formed into the flange along an extended portion of the front face;
at least one inner retention lug (<NUM>) positioned adjacent to, and extending a first distance over, the recessed pocket and located on a side of the recessed pocket closest to the front face; and
at least one outer retention lug (<NUM>) positioned adjacent to, and extending a second distance over, the recessed pocket and located on a side of the recessed pocket opposite from the inner retention lug; and
a heat pipe (<NUM>) disposed within the recessed pocket and secured therein by the inner and outer retentions lugs, the heat pipe configured to reduce and/or eliminate formation of condensation around the front face of the liner, wherein the inner retention lug has a first length spanning between a first forward end and a first rearward end, the outer retention lug has a second length spanning between a second forward end and a second rearward end, characterized in that the inner retention lug is arranged on the flange in a staggered formation with respect to the outer retention lug, and the staggered formation is defined by the inner and outer retention lugs being positioned about the recessed pocket such that the first forward end of the inner retention lug is disposed adjacent the second rearward end of the outer retention lug, without said inner and outer retention lugs overlapping.