Danby's Intirion Secures Patent Validity for MicroFridge® Product Line Triumph

Danby Appliances' Intirion MicroFridge® Receives Patent Confirmation

In a significant development for the appliance industry, the United States Patent and Trademark Office's Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) upheld the patentability of Intirion's MicroFridge® products on April 14, 2025. This announcement marks a pivotal moment not only for the brand but also for the universities and colleges that rely on its products for their students.

Intirion's innovative MicroFridge® combines the functions of a refrigerator and a microwave, thus providing a versatile solution for space-saving needs, particularly in dormitories and small living spaces. The PTAB confirmed the validity of U.S. Patent No. 11,674,745 and all claims of U.S. Patent No. 11,674,746, both of which are fundamental to the MicroFridge® appliance features, including the patented integrated smoke sensor and power management technology.

Andrew Raymond, President of Danby Appliances, reiterated the brand's commitment to reliable technology, stating, "Our customers have trusted MicroFridge® appliances for decades, and this ruling confirms what they already know—our products are backed by patented, field-proven technology." This statement embodies the confidence that Danby has in their product line and serves as a reminder of the rigorous standards they uphold.

This decision follows a Post-Grant Review initiated by College Products, aiming to challenge the patents' validity. However, after thorough evaluations, those claims were rejected. This outcome not only reinforces the strength of Intirion's intellectual property but is also a testament to the importance of innovation in appliance technology.

The MicroFridge® is particularly known for its safety features, highlighted by the MicroFridge® 1st defense Smoke Sensor™ and Safe-Plug™ technology. These features are designed to minimize risks associated with dormitory living, such as fire hazards, thereby enhancing the overall safety of students.

Intirion's success in safeguarding these patents is an important marker in its ongoing journey to provide cost-effective and resource-efficient appliances. With a total of nine patents relating to the MicroFridge® technology, Danby emphasizes its approach to creating products that not only meet but exceed safety and energy efficiency standards, setting a benchmark for competitors in the market.

The company is strongly positioned to continue expanding its footprint in the educational sector, providing tailored solutions that cater to the unique demands of dormitory environments. Danby is proud to keep delivering reliable and innovative appliances designed with the safety and convenience of students in mind.

As the trend towards smaller living spaces continues, the need for versatile appliances like the MicroFridge® is anticipated to grow. With superior technology and a commitment to quality, Intirion is poised to maintain its leadership in the market, crucial for meeting the evolving needs of modern living.

For additional information on Intirion and their extensive patent portfolio, visit MicroFridge Patents. As the landscape of consumer appliances continues to evolve, Danby remains dedicated to innovation, reliability, and customer safety, shaping a new era for compact living solutions.