Refrigeration appliance and method for measuring contents of a container

Abstract

An appliance, such as a refrigeration appliance, and a controller configured to perform operations for measuring contents of a container are provided. The operations include receiving, from a sensor, one or more signals indicative of a level of contents in the container and determining a volume of the contents in the container based at least on the level of the contents in the container.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for obtaining measurements from appliances. The present invention relates specifically to systems and methods for obtaining volumetric measurements of fluids from appliances. BACKGROUND

[0002] Appliances, such as refrigerators, often include one or more cabinets that define a chamber for receiving food items for storage. Refrigeration appliances can also include features for dispensing ice and / or liquid water. To provide ice and / or liquid water, a dispenser is often provided on a door of the appliance. A user approaches the dispenser, sets a container, and ice and / or liquid water is deposited into the container according to the user's selection. A dial or other type of switch can be provided whereby the user can make the selection. Often, liquid water is cooled by directing the liquid water through a refrigeration chamber.

[0003] Measuring the volume of wet or dry contents of a vessel when cooking or baking is a common kitchen task. Known methods for obtaining a measurement of wet or dry contents include utilizing a measuring cup or other device having markings indicative of volume or other measurements. The markings on the device are often small, such that many reference points can be included in order to obtain an accurate measurement. However, an accurate measurement is often dependent on user factors, such as where the user looks at the markings to obtain the measurement, the consistency of the angle or orientation at which the user looks at the markings, or the consistency between users obtaining the measurement. Such measurements can be difficult to read, or difficult to read with repeatable consistency. Additionally, such measurements can be difficult for a user with impaired vision to read.

[0004] Conventional measuring devices and methods often require specialized vessels, which can limit the size, shape, capacity, volume units, or number of measuring devices (e.g., measuring cups) that can be available to a user. Such limitations can further limit the speed and efficiency of the measuring task. For example, a user is often prohibited from measuring more than one ingredient at a time, unless more than one measuring device is utilized. In another instance, a user can be prohibited from measuring more than one ingredient at a time, as it is desirable to keep wet and dry ingredients separate from one another, which can result in a separate measuring device being desired or necessary for wet and dry ingredients.

[0005] A user often fills and removes desired contents from a measuring vessel, such as a measuring cup, until a desired volume is observed. The user can repeatedly fill and remove contents until a desired measurement is achieved. The measurement can be subjective to the user, such as depending on whether the user views the measurement from a consistent perspective or angle, or whether the user is consistent between measurements, or whether multiple users can provide consistent measurements.

[0006] Accordingly, there is a need for improved methods and systems for obtaining a measurement of a volume of contents. SUMMARY

[0007] Various aspects of the application, as well as a full description of the

[0008] The present application provides an appliance comprising a cabinet defining a chamber. A door is mounted to the cabinet and is configured to allow selective access to the chamber of the cabinet. A dispenser defines a dispensing recess, and a sensor is disposed at the dispensing recess. The sensor is configured to receive one or more signals indicative of a presence of a container proximate the dispensing recess and a level of contents in the container. One or more control devices are in operable communication with the user input panel and the sensor. The one or more control devices are configured to receive the one or more signals from the sensor indicative of the level of contents in the container; and determine a volume of the contents in the container based on the level of contents in the container.

[0009] Another aspect of the present application provides a controller for an appliance. The controller comprises one or more storage devices configured to store instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the controller to perform operations. The operations comprise: receiving a first signal from a sensor indicative of a container disposed at a dispensing recess of the appliance; receiving a second signal from the sensor indicative of a level of contents in the container; and determining a volume of the contents in the container based at least on the level of contents in the container.

[0010] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present application will become evident to those skilled in the art from a review of the description of the application that follows, when considered in connection with the drawings and the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] The description set forth herein, in connection with the appended drawings and description, discloses exemplary embodiments of the application and serves as a best mode for carrying out the application. The following description includes specific details to provide a thorough understanding of the present application. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the application can be practiced without these specific details.

[0012] Figure 1 A front view of an appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application is provided.

[0013] Figure 2 And Figure 3 A front view of a dispensing assembly of an exemplary appliance of Figure 1

[0014] Figure 4 ​A flowchart illustrating a method for determining the volume of contents in a container according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided. Detailed Implementation

[0015] Referring now to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Each example is given by way of explanation and does not constitute a limitation thereof. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the invention without departing from its scope or spirit. For example, features shown or described as part of one embodiment can be used in another embodiment, thereby producing yet another embodiment. Therefore, it is desired that the invention cover such modifications and variations falling within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0016] Implementations of methods and systems for determining the volume of contents in a container are provided. The implementations provided herein reduce or eliminate the need for specialized measuring devices and / or the provision of electronically interpretable measurement results. The implementations provided herein can reduce or eliminate subjectivity associated with determining the volume of contents in a container, such as, but not limited to, subjectivity based on viewpoint consistency, consistency between users, or consistency between measurements. The implementations provided herein can output measurements that overcome problems associated with visual impairment, which may prevent users from reading measurements at the measuring device. The implementations provided herein also allow for faster continuous measurements without the need for multiple separate measuring devices or the cleaning and reuse of a single measuring device.

[0017] Exemplary aspects of the invention relate to an appliance having one or more sensors configured to determine the liquid level in a container. The sensors may also be configured to determine various geometries of the container. The sensors may be associated with a fluid distribution system, such as a liquid water and / or ice delivery system. The sensors may be configured to detect the presence of a container positioned near the distribution system. The sensors may also be configured to determine the height of the container and / or the level of the contents within the container. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor may be an ultrasonic sensor positioned on top of the distribution system. The sensor may be positioned parallel to the fluid flow (such as liquid water) distributed by the dispenser and configured to send a signal corresponding to the fluid flow. To obtain a measurement or reading of the volume of the contents in the container, the user places the container at the dispenser. The user provides input at a user input panel. The sensor determines the volume of the contents in the container. In some embodiments, the height of the contents can be determined once the container is detected. The sensor may send a signal indicating the height of the contents to a control system. The control system may determine the volume of the contents based at least in part on this signal.

[0018] In some implementations, the sensor is also configured to acquire the height and / or other geometry of the container, such as indicating container volume, and the control system is configured to store the container geometry as calibration data. The control system can be configured to determine the volume of the contents in the container based on the calibration data and the height of the contents in the container.

[0019] In other embodiments, the sensor is configured to generate multiple signals received by the control system. These signals indicate various calibration levels or heights of the contents in the calibration container. The user inputs a volume associated with a predetermined height of the fluid obtained by the sensor. The control system can store the predetermined volume and contents height and correlate them, and determine the volume of the contents in the container based on a transfer function, interpolation, or extrapolation of the calibration data.

[0020] Now refer to the attached diagram, Figure 1 A front view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of appliance 100 is shown. Appliance 100 may specifically be refrigeration appliance. Appliance 100 includes a housing or enclosure 120 defining an upper food preservation compartment 122 and a lower freezer compartment 124 disposed below the food preservation compartment 122. Thus, appliance 100 may generally be referred to as a bottom-mounted refrigeration appliance. In the exemplary embodiment, housing 120 also defines a mechanical chamber (not shown) for receiving a sealed cooling system. Using the teachings disclosed herein, those skilled in the art will understand that the invention can be used with other types of refrigeration appliances (e.g., side-by-side or top-mounted), refrigeration appliances, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, ovens or stoves, general fluid dispensers, or other suitable appliances. Therefore, the description set forth herein is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention to any particular style or arrangement of appliance.

[0021] Refrigerator doors 126 and 128 are rotatably hinged to the edge of housing 120 to allow access to food preservation compartment 122. A freezer door 130 is arranged below the refrigerator doors 126 and 128 to allow access to freezer compartment 124. In an exemplary embodiment, freezer door 130 is coupled to a freezer drawer (not shown) that is slidably mounted within freezer compartment 124.

[0022] Appliance 100 includes a dispensing assembly 110 for dispensing liquid water and ice. Dispensing assembly 110 includes a dispenser 114 disposed on the exterior of appliance 100. Dispenser 114 includes a discharge port 134 for receiving ice and liquid water. Dispensing assembly 110 also includes a sensor 112 disposed on discharge port 134. As will be described in more detail below, sensor 112 can be configured to detect the presence of a container disposed within dispensing assembly 110 and to detect the top lip of the container. A user interface panel 136 is provided to control operating modes. For example, user interface panel 136 includes a water dispensing button (unlabeled) and an ice dispensing button (unlabeled) for selecting a desired operating mode, such as crushed ice, non-crushed ice, or liquid water.

[0023] The discharge port 134 is an external part of the dispenser 114 and is mounted in a dispensing recess 138 defined in the outer surface of the refrigerator door 126. The dispensing recess 138 is positioned at a predetermined height that facilitates the user in retrieving ice or liquid water, allowing the user to retrieve ice or liquid water without bending over or entering the freezer compartment 124. In an exemplary embodiment, the dispensing recess 138 is positioned near chest level with the user.

[0024] The operation of appliance 100 is regulated by a control device or controller 300 operatively coupled to user interface panel 136 and / or sensor 112. Controller 300 may include one or more processors 314 and one or more storage devices 316. The one or more storage devices 316 may be configured to store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors 314, cause refrigeration appliance 100 to perform operations such as those provided below. Storage devices 316 may be configured to store calibration data, data corresponding to one or more signals, transfer functions, graphs, tables, timelines, or determined values ​​such as those provided herein.

[0025] Panel 136 provides users with options for operating the appliance 100, such as selecting between whole or crushed ice, chilled liquid water, or other fluids, and / or determining the volume of contents or other measurements within a container, as further described herein. In response to user operations on the user interface panel 136, controller 300 operates various components of the appliance 100. Controller 300 can be positioned at various locations throughout the appliance 100. Figure 1In the exemplary embodiment shown, the controller 300 is located within or below the user interface panel 136 on the door 126. In this embodiment, input / output (“I / O”) signals can be routed between the controller 300 and various operating components of the electrical appliance 100. In one exemplary embodiment, the user interface panel 136 may represent a general-purpose I / O (“GPIO”) device or function block. In another exemplary embodiment, the user interface 136 may include input components, such as one or more of various electrical, mechanical, or electromechanical input devices including rotary control panels, buttons, and touchpads. The user interface 136 may communicate with the controller 300 via one or more signal lines or a shared communication bus.

[0026] Figure 2 A close-up front view of the dispenser 114 of the dispensing assembly 110 is provided. An exemplary nozzle 140 is positioned adjacent to the actuating member 132. The nozzle 140 includes a plurality of fluid outlets 142 through which liquid water flows into a container placed by the user of the appliance 100 into a recess 138 of the dispensing assembly 110. The dispensing assembly 110 may also include a sensor, such as a sensor 112. The sensor 112 may be disposed within the dispenser 114 above the nozzle 140. In particular, the sensor 112 may be disposed within the upper portion of the dispenser 114 such that one or more signals generated by the sensor 112 are transmitted parallel to the liquid water flow. Thus, the sensor 112 may be vertically disposed above the container placed in the dispenser 114.

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, sensor 112 may be an ultrasonic transducer configured to periodically transmit and receive high-frequency sound waves and convert the received sound waves into electrical data. Specifically, sensor 112 may be configured to generate and transmit sound waves and receive one or more echo sound waves. Sensor 112 may also be configured to determine the time interval between transmitting sound waves and receiving one or more echoes.

[0028] In another embodiment, sensor 112 may be an optical transducer, such as, but not limited to, an infrared light sensor, a visible light sensor, or a camera. Sensor 112, configured as an optical transducer, may be configured to periodically transmit and receive light, and convert the received light into electrical data. Specifically, sensor 112 may be configured to generate and transmit light and receive reflected light. Sensor 112 may also be configured to determine the time interval between transmitting light and receiving reflected light. It should be understood that various other sensors and / or sensor configurations may be used, such as sensor configurations including separate and distinct transmitters and receivers.

[0029] Figure 3A close-up front view of the dispenser 114 of the dispensing assembly 110 is provided. In an exemplary embodiment, sensor 112 may be configured to detect the presence of a container 111 positioned near or within the dispenser. For example, sensor 112 may transmit one or more signals (e.g., sound waves, light waves, photons, etc.) and receive one or more signals indicating the container 111 (e.g., reflected sound waves, reflected light, etc.). In particular, the presence of the container may be detected at least in part by comparing the received signal with a baseline signal. The baseline signal may be a signal received by sensor 112 that is not reflected by the container. For example, the baseline signal may be a signal transmitted by sensor 112 that is reflected, for example, by the bottom surface of dispenser 114. Such a signal may have an associated time interval corresponding to a specific known time interval (or time range) so that the signal transmitted by sensor 112 returns to sensor 112 in the absence of a container. When container 111 is positioned near dispenser 114, a different signal corresponding at least in part to the signal reflected by container 111 may be received. This signal can have different corresponding time intervals (or time ranges), which can indicate the presence of container 111.

[0030] In response to input on the user interface panel 136 (e.g., a request to dispense liquid water or ice), dispenser 114 can be activated to initiate the flow of fluid (e.g., liquid water and / or ice) into container 111. As another example, dispenser 114 can be activated to initiate the flow of fluid into container 111 in response to input on the user interface panel 136 and / or in response to detection of container 111 within dispenser 114. Components of the electrical appliance 100 operable to dispense liquid water and / or ice are well known and will not be described in detail. As an example, controller 300 can open a water supply valve to dispense liquid water. As another example, controller 300 can open an ice tank door and activate a screw feeder motor to dispense ice. Controller 300 can immediately operate dispenser 114 to initiate the flow of fluid into container 111 in response to input on user interface panel 136. Thus, there can be no delay or a negligible delay between input on user interface panel 136 and the dispensing of fluid into container 111. The presence of container 111 does not need to be detected before dispenser 114 dispenses liquid water or ice. For example, when a user provides input to user interface panel 136 indicating a request to dispense liquid water, liquid water is dispensed in conjunction with the user input, even if sensor 112 does not detect container 111 approaching dispenser 114. After the flow of liquid water and / or ice into container 111 is initiated, sensor 112 can then be used to detect container 111, for example, after an appropriate delay, as described in more detail below.

[0031] Sensor 112 may also be configured to detect the level of contents 119 in container 111, such as wet or dry ingredients (e.g., ingredients for cooking or baking, or other fluids or solids as desired to be measured at the location of appliance 100). In one embodiment, sensor 112 is configured to detect the level, such as height, of contents 119 in container 111 once the presence of container 111 is detected. For example, when container 111 is positioned near dispenser 114, sensor 112 may receive various signals from various surfaces reflecting an indication signal. For example, a signal indicating the bottom surface of dispenser 114 may be received (e.g., signal 143). This signal may correspond to the baseline signal described above. Further, a signal indicating the top lip 115 of container 111 may be received (e.g., signal 145), and a signal indicating the level or height of contents 119 within container 111 may be received (e.g., signal 147). One or more signals indicating various geometries of container 111 may also be received (e.g., signal 149). For example, container 111 includes a handle 113 extending horizontally from container 111. As shown, signal 149 indicates handle 113. As another example, if container 111 has a geometry in which the center 117 of container 111 has a radius larger or smaller than the top lip or bottom surface of the container, a signal indicating the center 117 can be received, and different signals indicating the top lip can be received.

[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, the top lip 115 may be identified at least in part based on a first signal received by sensor 112, such that the received first signal corresponds to the surface closest to the sensor (e.g., the top lip 115). Thus, the signal indicating the top lip 115 of container 111 can be distinguished from signals indicating, for example, the center 117 of container 111 (e.g., handle 113), or signals indicating liquid water or ice in container 111. As described above, such a signal may have an associated time interval corresponding to the time it takes for the signal to travel from sensor 112, be reflected off the surface, and be received by sensor 112. The signal indicating the top lip 115 may have the shortest associated time interval.

[0033] The controller 300 may receive multiple signals indicating the geometry of container 111 and determine the volume of container 111. The multiple signals indicating the geometry of container 111 may be stored by the controller 300 as calibration data. The controller 300 determines the level or volume of contents 119 in container 111 based on signals indicating the height of the contents in container 111 (e.g., signal 147). In a particular embodiment, the controller 300 compares the height of the contents 119 in container 111 (e.g., corresponding to signal 147) with calibration data (e.g., one or more signals indicating the geometry of container 111). In some embodiments, the determination of the volume of the contents in the container is based on a transfer function stored by the controller 300 that corresponds the height of the contents in the container (e.g., signal 147) to the geometry of the container (e.g., one or more of signals 143, 145, 149). In other embodiments, the volume of the contents in the container is determined by interpolating the volume of the contents in the container (i.e., the volume of the contents) from the height of the contents (e.g., signal 147) and calibration data.

[0034] In some embodiments, the user generates calibration data received and stored by the controller 300. The user can place the container at the dispensing recess 138. The appliance 100 dispenses a predetermined volume of fluid into the container (e.g., volume 1). The controller 300 receives a signal (e.g., signal 147) via sensor 112 and correlates the received signal with each predetermined volume. The controller 300 repeatedly dispenses one or more additional predetermined volumes of fluid into the container (e.g., volume 2, volume 3, ... volume N), and the controller 300 receives additional corresponding signals and correlates the received signals with each predetermined volume. In certain embodiments, the user can manually dispense fluid into the container via the appliance 100, wherein the appliance 100 measures, records, or otherwise determines the volume of fluid dispensed via a flow meter or calculated via a predetermined metering opening, fluid temperature, fluid pressure, fluid viscosity, fluid density, or one or more other physical properties or combinations thereof. The user can command the appliance 100 or the controller 300 to dispense fluid into the maximum and / or minimum volume of the desired container. The associated signals and the generated calibration data can also generate a transfer function based on the desired container. Therefore, users can use any desired vessel as a measuring container without needing a pre-defined measurement value, scale, or other markings on the container.

[0035] In a particular embodiment, the user provides calibration data received and stored by the controller 300. The user can place a calibration container with contents of a predetermined height at the dispensing recess 138. The calibration container may include a measuring cup, a graduated or graded container, or other measuring container with predetermined markings for the volume of wet and / or dry contents in the container. The calibration container may be provided by the user or included in the appliance. In some embodiments, the user may use a measuring device (e.g., a measuring cup) to input a predetermined volume of contents into a container without measuring markings (e.g., a coffee cup, juice cup, wine glass, bowl, or other container without graded markings indicating volume or other measurements). A non-measuring container with contents of a predetermined volume may be positioned at the dispensing recess 138. Sensor 112 outputs a signal (e.g., signal 147) received by the controller 300, and the user inputs a predetermined volume or other measurement corresponding to the height of the contents 119. The predetermined height of the contents is input by the user, such as via panel 136, and stored by the controller 300. The controller 300 receives multiple signals at various heights within the container, and the user provides a volume corresponding to a signal indicating the height of the contents within the container. In an exemplary embodiment, the user provides calibration data corresponding to an empty container (i.e., no contents), a full container, or the maximum volume of the container with contents, as well as one or more measurements between the empty measurement and the maximum volume measurement. In each case, the controller 300 receives a signal corresponding to that case (e.g., signal 147), and the user associates each signal with a volume indicated by the container (e.g., via a gradation marker or other calibration data indicating the volume).

[0036] After the controller 300 stores calibration data, the sensor 112 can generate a receivable signal indicating the level or height of the contents 119 within the container 111. Specifically, when the contents are at any one or more levels or heights, the controller 300 compares the calibration data with the signal (e.g., signal 147) to determine the contents volume 119. As described above, the comparison and determination may include interpolating the height of the contents 119 based on empty container data, full container data, and / or one or more calibration measurements. In another exemplary embodiment, the controller 300 stores a transfer function that determines the volume based on the contents height obtained by the sensor and calibration data such as that input by the user. In yet another embodiment, the controller 300 generates the transfer function based on a predetermined fluid volume allocated to the container by the appliance 100 and a signal relating the height in the container to the predetermined fluid volume.

[0037] The controller 300 may also be configured to output a visual or auditory signal corresponding to a determined volume of contents in the container. The controller 300 may output a visual signal to panel 136, providing a measurement of the determined or calculated contents. Panel 136 may display the quantity in a desired unit (e.g., imperial or metric units of volume). Alternatively or additionally, panel 136 may include a speaker or other means configured to output an auditory signal of the determined volume to a user in a desired unit. It should be understood that panel 136 may include any user input that allows for changes in the desired unit, auditory characteristics (e.g., auditory volume, language, dialect, accent, units, gender, etc.), visual characteristics, or other user preferences.

[0038] It should be understood that after calibration of a non-measuring container such as those described above, a similar non-measuring container can be used at the refrigeration appliance 100 to obtain a volume measurement of the contents within the container. In an exemplary embodiment, a user may have multiple juice cups of the same size and shape. Alternatively, a user may have multiple juice cups of the same cross-sectional area or shape but different heights. The user can supply a predetermined volume of contents to a juice cup from a measuring device. Sensor 112 generates a signal (e.g., signal 147) indicating the height of the contents within the juice cup, and the user then correlates this height with the predetermined volume based on the measuring device. After the controller 300 obtains calibration data, the volume of the contents within the juice cup can be determined using any juice cup of similar size. The controller 300 can also extrapolate the volume from juice cups with the same cross-sectional area or shape but a greater height. Therefore, a user can use any number of juice cups to obtain accurate and consistent measurements of the contents without further requiring a measuring device such as a measuring cup.

[0039] It should be understood that while the exemplary embodiments provided above utilize a juice cup, any container of any suitable size for dispensing recess 138 can be used. The embodiments of the refrigeration appliance 100 and controller 300 provided herein, along with the associated steps of the method of operation, can allow for the acquisition of volume measurements of wet and dry contents using non-measuring devices. Additionally or alternatively, the embodiments provided herein can improve measurement consistency and certainty among users, or reduce or eliminate user subjectivity when performing measurements. Further still, the embodiments provided herein can eliminate problems associated with user visual impairment or wear or damage to markings on the measuring device (e.g., erasure of markings on the measuring cup). Furthermore, since multiple containers can be used to obtain the volume of the contents, users can obtain faster continuous measurements without having to use a limited number of measuring cups.

[0040] Some embodiments of the refrigerator system 100 may include a sensor 112 as a dedicated device for obtaining the height of the contents in a container such as those provided above. In a particular embodiment, the electrical appliance 100 and controller 300 provided herein may be configured with one or more sensors associated with determining the level of fluid in the container, to further configure the sensors to determine the volume of fluid in the container.

[0041] In various embodiments, the refrigeration device 100 and the controller 300 are configured to determine the level of contents 119 (such as liquid water or ice) in the container 111 relative to the top lip 115 of the container 111. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor 112 may be configured to detect the level of liquid water or ice 119 once the presence of the container is detected. For example, when the container is positioned near the dispenser 114, the sensor 112 may receive various signals from various surfaces reflecting an indication signal. For example, a signal indicating the bottom surface of the dispenser 114 may be received (e.g., signal 143). This signal may correspond to the baseline signal described above. Further, a signal indicating the top lip 115 of the container 111 may be received (e.g., signal 145), and a signal indicating the level 119 of liquid water or ice within the container 111 may be received (e.g., signal 147). One or more signals indicating various geometries of the container 111 may also be received (e.g., signal 149). For example, the container 111 includes a handle 113 extending horizontally from the container 111. As shown in the figure, signal 149 indicates handle 113. As another example, if the container has a geometry in which the center 117 of the container has a larger radius than the top lip of the container, a signal indicating the center 117 can be received, and a different signal indicating the top lip can be received.

[0042] Once the top lip 115 is identified, the level 119 of liquid water or ice within container 111 can also be identified. Specifically, when dispenser 114 dispenses liquid water or ice, the level 119 of liquid water or ice within container 111 will rise. As the level rises, the time interval corresponding to the signal reflecting away from the liquid water or ice will decrease. The signal indicating the level 119 of liquid water or ice can be identified at least in part due to the change in the level of liquid water or ice. Thus, the signal indicating the liquid water level can be distinguished, for example, from the signal indicating the protruding center 117 of container 111. For example, the signal indicating the liquid water level in container 111 (e.g., signal 147) and the signal indicating the center 117 of container 111 (e.g., signal 149) may each have a time interval smaller than the time interval associated with signal 143 (e.g., the baseline signal) but larger than the time interval associated with signal 145. In an exemplary embodiment, the signal indicating the liquid water level can be distinguished from the signal indicating the center 117 due to the changing characteristics of the signal.

[0043] Once a signal indicating the level 119 of liquid water or ice at the top lip 115 is identified, the level 119 can be measured relative to the top lip 115. For example, as the level 119 of liquid water or ice rises, the distance between the level 119 of liquid water or ice and the top lip 115 decreases. When the distance between the top lip 115 and the level 119 of liquid water or ice falls below a threshold distance, the dispenser 114 can be configured to stop dispensing liquid water or ice. The threshold distance can be, for example, between approximately three centimeters (3 cm) and fifteen centimeters (15 cm). In an exemplary embodiment, the distance between the top lip 115 and the level 119 of liquid water or ice can be determined based on the difference between time intervals of the corresponding signals. The dispenser 114 can be configured to stop dispensing liquid water or ice when the difference between the time intervals corresponds to the threshold distance.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, the signal indicating ice in container 111 can be distinguished from the signal indicating liquid water in container 111. For example, when a user requests the dispensing of liquid water, the container may initially contain a certain amount of ice, such that the rising liquid water level may not initially be detected by sensor 112, at least partially, due to the presence of ice in container 111. In this embodiment, when ice can be detected but liquid water cannot be detected, dispenser 114 may be configured to blindly dispense liquid water for an initial time period, even though the liquid water level cannot be detected initially. For example, the initial time period may be a predetermined time period, or it may be determined at least partially based on a determined height of container 111.

[0045] In an alternative embodiment, dispenser 114 can be configured to blindly dispense liquid water until a liquid water level can be detected in container 111. For example, the initial time period can correspond to the amount of time until a liquid water level is detected in container 111. Thus, once sensor 112 can detect the liquid water level, dispenser 114 can be configured to dispense liquid water according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. For example, dispenser 114 can be configured to dispense liquid water until the distance between the liquid water level and the top lip 115 drops below a threshold distance.

[0046] In this implementation, liquid water can still be dispensed even if the distance between the ice level and the top lip 115 of container 111 is less than a threshold distance. For example, if the ice level is detected at a distance of half an inch (0.5”) from the top lip of container 111, liquid water can still be dispensed. When liquid water is dispensed into container 111, the overall level of the contents in container 111 does not initially rise. Specifically, the ice level and the liquid water level will converge as the ice settles and the liquid water level 119 rises. Therefore, in this implementation, liquid water can be dispensed by dispenser 114 until the combined distance between the liquid water and ice levels 119 and the top lip 115 is less than a threshold distance.

[0047] Figure 4 A flowchart outlining exemplary steps of a method (hereinafter, "method (1000)") for determining the volume of contents in a container is described. The steps of method (1000) may be stored by controller 300 and executed as operations. The steps of method (1000) may be stored by controller 300 and executed by an embodiment such as the refrigeration appliance 100 provided herein. As an example, method (1000) may be used in or with appliance 100 to dispense liquid water. The controller 300 of appliance 100 may be configured or programmed to implement method (1000). Additionally, Figure 4 The steps are described in a specific order for illustrative and discussion purposes. Those skilled in the art will understand, using the inventive content provided herein, that the steps of any method disclosed herein can be modified, adapted, extended, omitted, and / or rearranged in various ways without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0048] In (1010), method (1000) may include receiving user input indicating a request for determining the volume of contents in a container. The user input may include interaction with a user interface, verbal commands, or various other suitable user inputs. In (1010), method (1000) may include, for example, receiving from a sensor (e.g., sensor 112) a first signal indicating a container positioned at a dispensing recess (e.g., dispensing recess 138) of an appliance (e.g., refrigeration appliance 100).

[0049] In (1020), method (1000) may include detecting the presence of a container near the dispenser. Before detecting the presence of a container near the dispenser in (1020), method (1000) may operate on the assumption that the container is near the dispenser without using a sensor to confirm the presence of the container near the dispenser until (1020).

[0050] The container can be detected at (1020) at least in part based on one or more signals received from a sensor. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor may be an ultrasonic transducer configured to transmit one or more high-frequency sound waves and receive one or more reflected high-frequency sound waves. The sound waves received by the sensor may have an associated time interval corresponding to the amount of time between the transmission of the sound wave and the reception of the corresponding reflected sound wave. In another exemplary embodiment, the sensor may be an optical transducer configured to periodically transmit and receive light and convert the received light into electrical data. In particular, the sensor may be configured to generate and transmit light and receive reflected light. The sensor may also be configured to determine the time interval between transmitting light and receiving reflected light. The presence of the container may be detected at least in part based on a comparison between the time interval of the received sound waves or light and a baseline time interval associated with a baseline signal. The baseline time interval may correspond to the amount of time between the transmission and reception of sound waves or light by the sensor when the container is not present near the dispenser.

[0051] The method (1000) may further include (1030) determining the level or height of the contents (e.g., wet or dry components) within the container. The method (1000) at (1030) may include, for example, receiving from a sensor a second signal indicating the height of the contents within the container. The level or height of the contents may be determined at least in part based on one or more signals received from the sensor. The method (1000) at (1030) may further include detecting the level of the contents within the container based at least on distinguishing the signal indicating the level of the contents within the container from signals indicating the lower part of the container and signals indicating the top lip of the container.

[0052] Method (1000) includes determining the volume of the contents in the container (i.e., the contents volume) at (1040) at least based on the height of the contents in the container. In some embodiments, method (1000) at (1040) includes comparing the height of the contents in the container with calibration data corresponding to the container. Method (1000) may include obtaining or receiving calibration data of the container at (1050). Receiving or obtaining calibration data may include one or more input signals, each input signal including a user-input height of the contents in the container and a corresponding user-input volume of the contents. Some embodiments of method (1000) include determining the volume of the container at (1052). The volume of the container may be determined via one or more signals obtained from the container in which the contents are located. In some embodiments, the volume of the container may be determined via one or more signals obtained from a similar container in which the contents are located. As provided herein, a similar container may include any one or more containers having an equal cross-sectional area, shape, height, or volume or a combination thereof with respect to the container containing the contents.

[0053] In other embodiments, calibration data (such as the volume of the container) may be predetermined, for example, via a measuring device (e.g., a measuring cup). The method (1000) may include receiving user input at (1054) a plurality of volumes, each corresponding to a specific height of the contents in the container. In an exemplary embodiment, the contents are measured in the measuring device and then provided to the container. The container is provided to a dispensing recess, and signals of the contents, the container, or both are received and obtained. The user may input a signal indicating the volume of the contents relative to each obtained height of the contents (such as an indication by the measuring device or a predetermined volume of contents released into the container by an electrical device).

[0054] In some implementations, method (1000) may include (1056) determining the volume of a container by determining the container's geometry, at least based on a plurality of signals received from sensors indicating the container's geometry. Determining the container's volume may include obtaining a signal (e.g., signal 145) indicating the top lip or upper part of the container via a sensor. Determining the container's volume may include obtaining a signal (e.g., signal 143) indicating the bottom surface of the container via a sensor. Determining the container's volume may include obtaining a signal (e.g., signal 149) indicating the middle part of the container via a sensor. The plurality of signals (e.g., 143, 145, 149) may together indicate the container's geometry. The plurality of signals may obtain one or more cross-sectional areas, which may be used to determine the container's volume.

[0055] Method (1000) at (1040) may include interpolating and / or extrapolating the volume of the contents of the container based on the height of the contents in the container and calibration data. In an exemplary embodiment, calibration data including a predetermined or user-inputted height of the contents and a corresponding volume may be interpolated to determine the volume of the contents in the container based at least on the level or height of the contents. In another exemplary embodiment, the volume of the contents in the container may be extrapolated based on calibration data including a predetermined or user-inputted height of the contents and a corresponding volume, as well as the level or height of the contents received from a signal.

[0056] In a still specific implementation, method (1000) at (1040) may include determining the volume of the contents in the container based on the height of the contents in the container and calibration data via a transfer function.

[0057] The method (1000) may include (1060) outputting or transmitting a visual or auditory signal corresponding to a determined volume of the contents in the container (i.e., the determined volume of the contents). As provided herein, the visual or auditory signal may include a description, wording, picture, or speech informing the user of the determined volume of the contents in the container.

[0058] See backFigure 3 Implementations of controller 300 may include any suitable computing device, circuitry, processor, and / or memory configured to store, process, determine, obtain, receive, or perform any one or more operations or steps (such as the steps of the method (1000) provided herein). It should be understood that processor 314 and storage device 316 may be integrated as a single component. As used herein, the term "processor" refers not only to integrated circuits known in the art as included in a computer, but also to controllers, microcontrollers, microcomputers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and other programmable circuits. Additionally, storage device 316 may generally include any suitable primary or secondary storage device, including but not limited to volatile memory, non-volatile memory, and / or other suitable storage elements or combinations thereof.

[0059] The controller 300 may include a communication interface module 310. In various embodiments, the communication interface module 310 may include associated electronic circuitry for sending and receiving data or signals. Thus, the communication interface module 310 may be used to receive signals from the sensor 112, output or send visual and / or auditory signals to a user (e.g., via operative communication with the panel 136), receive calibration data from a user (e.g., via the panel 136), or receive, acquire, send, or perform any one or more steps of the method (1000) provided herein.

[0060] It should be understood that the communication interface module 310 can be any combination of suitable wired and / or wireless communication interfaces, and thus can be communicatively coupled to one or more components of the refrigeration appliance 100 via wired and / or wireless connections. In an exemplary embodiment, the communication interface module 310 is configured to communicate wirelessly with an external device, such as a smartphone, tablet computer, wearable computing device (e.g., watch, glasses, eyepiece, etc.), personal computing device (e.g., laptop or desktop computer), or a vehicle including one or more computing devices. The communication interface module 310 may be specifically configured to transmit or output signals corresponding to a defined volume of contents in the container via a wireless connection (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other suitable communication medium).

[0061] The controller 300 may include control logic 312 stored in the storage device 316. The control logic 312 may include computer-readable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors 314, cause the one or more processors 314 to perform operations such as those outlined in one or more steps of the method (1000) provided herein. The instructions may be software written in any suitable programming language or may be implemented in hardware, including software permanently written to the storage device 316. Alternatively or additionally, the instructions may execute in logically and / or virtually separate threads on the processor 314.

[0062] As described above, while the present invention generally contemplates sensors associated with dispensers configured to dispense fluids such as liquid water or ice, dispensers can also be configured to dispense various other suitable forms of liquids and / or ice. It should be understood that known sensors can be configured to detect, receive, acquire, or otherwise operate based on liquids, and the embodiments of sensor 112 and associated methods provided herein are configured to receive, acquire, or otherwise operate based on liquids, solids, granular solids, pastes, or other physical forms of wet or dry components known in the environment where refrigeration application 100 can be utilized.

[0063] This written description discloses the invention using examples (including preferred embodiments) and enables those skilled in the art to practice the invention (including making and using any apparatus or system and performing any of the included methods). The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that may be conceived by those skilled in the art. Such other examples are expected to fall within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that are not distinct from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially distinct from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. An electrical appliance, characterized in that, The electrical appliance includes: Enclosure, which defines a chamber; A door, which is installed into the housing, is used to allow selective access to the chambers of the housing; User input panel; A dispenser that defines a dispensing recess; A sensor, disposed at the dispensing recess, is configured to receive one or more signals indicating the presence of a container near the dispensing recess and the height of its contents. The sensor is an ultrasonic transducer operable to periodically transmit one or more sound waves and receive one or more reflected sound waves. The sensor is positioned at the dispensing recess such that the one or more sound waves transmitted by the sensor are transmitted parallel to the fluid flow into the dispensing recess. One or more control devices, which are operatively communicateable with the user input panel and the sensor, are configured to: Receive one or more signals from the sensor indicating the height of the contents in the container; and The volume of the contents in the container is determined based on the height of the contents in the container.

2. The electrical appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The one or more control devices are configured to detect the presence of the container within the dispensing recess based at least in part on the one or more signals from the sensors.

3. The electrical appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The one or more control devices are configured to output a visual or auditory signal corresponding to the determined volume of contents in the container.

4. The electrical appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The one or more control devices are configured to compare the height of the contents in the container with calibration data corresponding to the container.

5. The electrical appliance according to claim 4, characterized in that, The one or more control devices configured to compare the height of the contents in the container with calibration data corresponding to the container are also configured to interpolate the volume of the contents in the container based on the height of the contents in the container and the calibration data.

6. The electrical appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The one or more control devices include a transfer function configured to determine the volume of the contents in the container based on the height of the contents in the container and calibration data corresponding to the container.

7. The electrical appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The one or more control devices are configured to receive calibration data, wherein the calibration data includes one or more input signals, each input signal including an input height and a corresponding input volume.

8. The electrical appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The one or more reflected sound waves indicate the height of the contents in the container.

9. The electrical appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The user input panel and the distributor are mounted on the door.

10. A controller for electrical appliances, characterized in that, The controller includes: One or more storage devices configured to store instructions, which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the controller to perform operations including: Receive a first signal from the sensor indicating a container positioned at the dispensing recess of the appliance; Receive a second signal from the sensor indicating the height of the contents in the container; and The volume of the contents of the container is determined at least based on the height of the contents within the container; The sensor is an ultrasonic transducer that is operable to periodically transmit one or more sound waves and receive one or more reflected sound waves. Furthermore, the sensor is positioned at the dispensing recess such that one or more sound waves transmitted by the sensor are transmitted parallel to the fluid flow into the dispensing recess.

11. The controller according to claim 10, characterized in that, The operation includes: Output a visual or auditory signal corresponding to the determined volume of contents in the container.

12. The controller according to claim 10, characterized in that, The operation includes: The height of the contents in the container is compared with calibration data corresponding to the container.

13. The controller according to claim 12, characterized in that, Comparing the height of the contents in the container with calibration data corresponding to the container includes: interpolating the volume of the contents in the container based on the height of the contents in the container and the calibration data.

14. The controller according to claim 11, characterized in that, Determining the volume of the contents in the container includes: determining the volume of the contents in the container based on the height of the contents in the container and calibration data corresponding to the container via a transfer function.

15. The controller according to claim 11, characterized in that, The operation includes: Receive calibration data including one or more input signals, each input signal including input height and corresponding input volume.

16. The controller according to claim 11, characterized in that, The operation includes: The volume of the container is determined, wherein the volume of the contents in the container is determined based at least on the height of the contents in the container and the determined volume of the container.

17. The controller according to claim 16, characterized in that, Determining the volume of the container includes receiving one or more signals from the sensor that indicate the detection of one or more surfaces of the container.

Images