Manual refrigeration apparatus

Abstract

A manually operated refrigeration apparatus includes a refrigerant compressor which is operated solely by manual or pedal power, and which requires no other automated or external power or energy source. The apparatus generally comprises a cylindrical refrigerant compressor, with the refrigerant being compressed by a piston driven by a coil spring within the cylinder. The spring is in turn compressed by an external lever or pedal operated linkage, with compression of the refrigerant being initiated when the spring compression is released. The refrigerant then passes through an expansion valve, whereby the refrigerant pressure drops to cause the fluid to evaporate and drop in temperature, as in powered refrigeration devices. The apparatus is connected to an insulated cooler chest or the like, with the chest including refrigerant lines within the walls and/or floor. The present refrigeration apparatus is capable of indefinitely maintaining relatively low temperatures within the cooler, thereby preserving food or other articles for relatively long periods of time while away from external power sources. The compression may be pumped up periodically, with the internal spring producing refrigerant flow through the system for a period of time before requiring additional actuation. Once the cooler temperature has reached the desired level, the insulation provides substantial maintenance of the temperature for some period of time before additional operation of the apparatus is required.