Water dispenser with actuator for nozzle

Abstract

A water dispenser unit includes a support base; a nozzle unit movably coupled to the support base such that the nozzle unit is movable between retracted and dispensing positions; and an electric actuator that is operable between first and second actuator configurations. The nozzle unit includes an inlet portion for receiving water, an outlet portion for dispensing water that is in fluid communication with the inlet portion, and a first nozzle cam element. The actuator has an actuator cam element that is configured to operatively engage the first nozzle cam element such that operation of the actuator from the first actuator configuration to the second actuator configuration causes the nozzle unit to move from the retracted position to the dispensing position, and operation of the actuator from the second actuator configuration to the first actuator configuration causes the nozzle unit to move from the dispensing position to the retracted position.

Description

WATER DISPENSER WITH ACTUATED NOZZLEFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a water dispenser for a refrigerator and more particularly, a water dispenser with an actuated nozzle.BACKGROUND

[0002] 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 0° C., such as between 0.25° C. and 4.5° C. and the freezer compartments at temperatures below 0° C., such as between 0° C. and -20° C.

[0003] 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 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.

[0004] Conventionally, refrigerators have a water and / or ice dispenser located on the front surface of the refrigerator door. This allows a user to obtain water that is chilled by a water circulation system in the refrigerator or ice created by an ice maker while the refrigerator door is closed.SUMMARY

[0005] According to a first aspect, a water dispenser unit includes a support base; a nozzle unit movably coupled to the support base such that the nozzle unit is movable between a retracted position and a dispensing position; and an electric actuator that is operable between a first actuator configuration and a second actuator configuration. The nozzle unit includes an inlet portion for receiving water, an outlet portion for dispensing water that is in fluid communication with the inlet portion, and a first nozzle cam element. The electric actuatorhas an actuator cam element that is configured to operatively engage the first nozzle cam element such that operation of the electric actuator from the first actuator configuration to the second actuator configuration causes the nozzle unit to move from the retracted position to the dispensing position, and operation of the electric actuator from the second actuator configuration to the first actuator configuration causes the nozzle unit to move from the dispensing position to the retracted position.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] FIG. l is a perspective view of an example refrigerator;

[0007] FIG. 2 is an interior-side view of a fresh-food compartment of the refrigerator;

[0008] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a first example water dispenser unit for the refrigerator, wherein a nozzle unit of the first water dispenser unit is in a retracted position;

[0009] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the first water dispenser unit, wherein the nozzle unit of the first water dispenser unit is in a dispensing position;

[0010] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the first water dispenser unit;

[0011] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the nozzle unit of the first water dispenser unit;

[0012] FIG. 7 is another perspective view of the nozzle unit of the first water dispenser unit;

[0013] FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of the first water dispenser unit;

[0014] FIG. 9 is a wiring schematic for various components of the refrigerator and the first water dispenser unit;

[0015] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of a second example water dispenser unit for the refrigerator;

[0016] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a nozzle unit of the second water dispenser unit;

[0017] FIG. 12 is another perspective view of the nozzle unit of the second water dispenser unit;

[0018] FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of the second water dispenser unit, wherein the nozzle unit is in a retracted position; and

[0019] FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of the second water dispenser unit, wherein the nozzle unit is in a dispensing position.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Apparatus will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which embodiments of the disclosure are shown. Whenever possible, the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to refer to the sameor like parts. However, this disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0021] Turning to FIG. 1, an example refrigerator 10 includes a cabinet 14 comprising an outer shell 16 and an inner liner 18 arranged within the shell 16 that defines a first (upper) compartment 26 and a second (lower compartment) 28. The refrigerator 10 further includes a plurality of shelves 32 arranged within the first compartment 26, and a plurality of drawers 34 arranged withing the second compartment 28. Moreover, the refrigerator 10 includes first and second doors 36, 38 that are movably coupled to the cabinet 14 for providing selective access to the first and second compartments 26, 28, respectively.

[0022] Each compartment 26, 28 comprises a plurality of walls that collectively define its interior. For example, the first compartment 26 comprises a lower wall 40a, an upper wall 40b, a left sidewall 40c, a right sidewall 40d, and a rear wall 40e that collectively define an interior 44 of the first compartment 26. In the present embodiment, the first compartment 26 is arranged above the second compartment 28 and corresponds to a fresh-food compartment that can maintain fresh food at temperatures above 0° C, such as between 0.25° C and 4.5° C. The second compartment 28, meanwhile, corresponds to a freezer compartment that can store frozen food at temperatures below 0° C, such as between 0° C and -20° C. However, the refrigerator 10 can comprise any configuration of one or more compartments without departing from the scope of the disclosure, such as a bottom mount refrigerator (freezer disposed below the fresh food compartment), a side-by-side refrigerator (fresh food compartment is laterally next to the freezer compartment), a standalone refrigerator or freezer, etc.

[0023] Turning to the FIG. 2, the refrigerator 10 further includes a combined assembly 50 that is mounted to a sidewall of the first compartment 26, for example, the left sidewall 40c. The combined assembly 50 includes an illumination unit 54, a water dispenser unit 56, and a housing 60 that accommodates both the illumination unit 54 and water dispenser unit 56. In particular, the housing 60 defines an upper compartment that contains the illumination unit 54, and a lower compartment that contains the water dispenser unit 56. Still, it is to be appreciated that the water dispenser unit 56 can be mounted to a sidewall of the refrigerator compartment separate and apart from any illumination device.

[0024] The illumination unit 54 in the present example is a vertically elongated unit comprising a back panel 70, an array of LED lights 72 mounted to the back panel 70, and a translucent cover panel 74 that covers the back panel 70 and LED lights 72. Moreover, the LED lights 72 are configured to illuminate whenever the door 36 of the first compartment 26is open, thereby illuminating the interior 44 of the first compartment 26. However, the illumination unit 54 can comprise any configuration having one or more lights (e.g., LEDs or incandescent bulbs) without departing the scope of the disclosure.

[0025] Turning to FIGS. 3-5, a first embodiment of the water dispenser unit 56 will now be described in further detail. FIG. 3 shows the water dispenser unit 56 in a non-dispensing configuration, while FIG. 4 shows the water dispensing unit 56 in a dispensing configuration. FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the water dispensing unit 56. As shown best in FIG. 5, the water dispenser unit 56 includes a support base 80, an actuation member 84, an electric actuator 86, a nozzle unit 90, and first and second switch assemblies 96, 98.

[0026] The nozzle unit 90 is pivotally coupled to the support base 80 such that the nozzle unit 90 is rotatable between a retracted position (see FIG. 3, non-dispensing configuration) and a dispensing position (see FIG. 4, extended dispensing configuration). In particular, the nozzle unit 90 includes a pair of pins 104 that are coaxially aligned along a nozzle pivot axis Xi and can be received within respective channels 106 defined by the support base 80 to pivotally couple the nozzle unit 90 thereto, such that the nozzle unit 90 is rotatable about the nozzle pivot axis Xi between its retracted and dispensing positions. Alternatively, the pins 104 and channels 106 can be reversed between the nozzle unit and support base.

[0027] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the nozzle unit 90 is a single body of thermoplastic material that forms the pins 104 described above. The nozzle unit 90 further includes a main panel 108, left and right sidewalls 110a, 110b that extend rearward from the main panel 108, and a nozzle portion 112 that extends between and connects lower ends of the sidewalls 110a, 110b. The main panel 108 defines a front surface 114 of the nozzle unit 90, which is substantially planar and substantially parallel to the nozzle pivot axis Xi. Moreover, the nozzle portion 112 includes an inlet portion 116 for receiving water from a water source, and an outlet portion 118 for dispensing the water. The inlet portion 116 and outlet portion 118 are in fluid communication with each other via a fluid channel 124 that extends through the nozzle portion 112. The inlet portion 116 may be sized and configured to receive a water hose for delivering water to the nozzle portion 112.

[0028] A sidewall, such as the right sidewall 110b, of the nozzle unit 90 defines a cam channel 130 extending therethrough, wherein the cam channel 130 is circumscribed by a cam surface 132 of the right sidewall 110b. The cam channel 130 is a double-curved channel having a main portion 134 and first and second end portions 136a, 136b that curve / extend from opposite ends of the main portion 134 in opposing directions. It is to be appreciated that the first and second end portions 136a, 136b may not extend in exactly opposite directions.For instance, the first portion 136a in the present example curves from the main portion 134 to a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the main portion 134, whereas the second portion 136b curves from the main portion 134 to a direction that is oblique to the main portion 134. Moreover, the cam channel 130 may comprise other shapes without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, the cam channel 130 may be an arcuate / single- curved channel, or the cam channel 130 may be substantially linear in some examples.

[0029] The right sidewall 110b as configured thus corresponds to a first nozzle cam element of the nozzle unit 90 that, as discussed below in further detail, can operatively engage a corresponding actuator cam element of the electric actuator 86. Moreover, the nozzle unit 90 further includes a second cam element 142 that, as further discussed below, can operatively engage a corresponding switch cam element of the second switch assembly 98. The second cam element 142 of the nozzle unit 90 extends rearward from the nozzle portion 112 and defines a substantially planar cam surface 148 (see FIG. 7) that extends oblique to the nozzle pivot axis Xi.

[0030] Turning back to FIG. 5, the electric actuator 86 is a linear actuator comprising a housing 160 that is fixed to the support base 80, a stroke member 162 that is translatable relative to housing 160 along a linear actuator axis X2, and an electric motor 166 within the housing 160 that is electrically operable to move the stroke member 162 along the linear actuator axis X2. Notably, the linear actuator axis X2 is substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis Xi of the nozzle unit 90. Moreover, the stroke member 162 comprises a cylindrical portion 170 that extends substantially parallel to the pivot axis Xi and substantially perpendicular to the linear actuator axis X2. The cylindrical portion 170 extends into (e.g., through) the cam channel 130 of the nozzle unit 90, and corresponds to an actuator cam element of the electric actuator 86.

[0031] As configured, the electric actuator 86 is electrically operable to move the nozzle unit 90 between its retracted and dispensing positions. In particular, the electric actuator 86 is operable between a first configuration (see FIG. 3) in which the stroke member 162 is in a first (raised) position, and a second configuration (see FIG. 4) in which the stroke member 162 is a second (lowered) position. When the electric actuator 86 is in the first configuration, the cylindrical portion 170 of the stroke member 162 will extend through the first end portion 136a of the nozzle unit’s cam channel 130 (see FIG. 8), and the nozzle unit 90 will assume its retracted position. Moreover, the cylindrical portion 170 of the stroke member 162 will inhibit movement of the nozzle unit 90 from the retracted position.

[0032] The electric actuator 86 can then be operated to assume its second configuration (see FIG. 4), thus translating the stroke member 162 downward along the linear actuator axis X2 until the stroke member 162 assumes its lowered position. As the stroke member 162 translates downward from its raised position to its lowered position, the cylindrical portion 170 of the stroke member 162 will slidingly engage and exert downward-outward force on the cam surface 132 of the nozzle unit 90, thus causing the nozzle unit 90 to rotate about the nozzle pivot axis Xi to its dispensing position. Moreover, the cylindrical portion 170 will move through the cam channel 130 such that the cylindrical portion 170 leaves the first end portion 136a, moves through the main portion 134, and enters the second end portion 136b. As arranged, the cylindrical portion 170 will inhibit movement of the nozzle unit 90 from its dispensing position.

[0033] To return the nozzle unit 90 back to its retracted position, the electric actuator 86 can then be operated to assume its first configuration (see FIG. 3), thus translating the stroke member 162 upward along the linear actuator axis X2 until the stroke member 162 assumes its raised position. As the stroke member 162 translates upward from its lowered position to its raised position, the cylindrical portion 170 of the stroke member 162 will slidingly engage and exert upward-inward force on the cam surface 132 of the nozzle unit 90, thus causing the nozzle unit 90 to rotate about the nozzle pivot axis Xi to its retracted position. Moreover, the cylindrical portion 170 will move through the cam channel 130 such that the cylindrical portion 170 leaves the second end portion 136b, moves through the main portion 134, and enters the first end portion 136a. As arranged, the cylindrical portion 170 will inhibit movement of the nozzle unit 90 from its retracted position.

[0034] With reference to FIGS. 3-5, the actuation member 84 and first switch assembly 96 of the water dispensing unit 56 will now be described in further detail. As discussed below, these features are configured for operating the electric actuator 86 to selectively assume its first and second configurations, thus operating the nozzle unit 90 to selectively assume its retracted and dispensing configurations.

[0035] The actuation member 84 is an elongated paddle that is pivotally coupled to the support base 80 such that the actuation member 84 is rotatable between a first / rest position (see FIG. 3) and a second / actuating position (see FIG. 4). In particular, as shown best in FIG. 5, the support base 80 includes a pair of pins 180 that are coaxially aligned along a paddle pivot axis X3, and the actuation member 84 includes respective sets of arms 182 that can mate with the pins 180 of the support base 80 to pivotally couple the actuation member 84 thereto, such that the actuation member 84 is rotatable about the paddle pivot axis X3 between its restand actuating positions. Moreover, the water dispensing unit 56 comprises a spring 186 that is compressed between the support base 80 and actuation member 84, such that the spring 186 exerts force on the actuation member 84 that biases the actuation member 84 from its actuating position toward its rest position.

[0036] To move the actuation member 84 from its rest position to its actuating position, a user can press a glass or cup against an upper portion of the actuation member 84 with sufficient force to overcome the biasing force of the spring 186, thereby causing the actuation member 84 to rotate about the paddle pivot axis X3 to the actuating position. If the user removes the glass or cup from the actuation member 84, the biasing force of the spring 186 will cause the actuation member 84 to rotate back towards its rest position. Notably, the actuation member 84 includes a stop portion 188 that will abut and press against a corresponding portion of the support base 80 once the actuation member 84 reaches its rest position, thus inhibiting further rotation of the actuation member 84 beyond its rest position.

[0037] The first switch assembly 96 comprises a main body 192 that is fixed to the support base 80, a first electrical contact 194 that is fixed to the main body 192, a flexible beam member 196 that is coupled at its proximal (lower) end to the main body 192, and a second electrical contact 198 that is fixed to a distal (upper) end of the beam member 196. Moreover, the first switch assembly 96 includes first and second electrical terminals 204, 208 that are fixed to the main body 192 and electrically coupled to the first and second electrical contacts 194, 198, respectively.

[0038] The first switch assembly 96 is operable between a first (open) configuration in which the second contact 198 on the beam member 196 is spaced from the first contact 194, and a second (closed) configuration in which the second contact 198 engages the first contact 194. In particular, the distal end of the beam member 196 can flexibly move toward or away from the first contact 194 to adjust the switch assembly 96 between its open and closed configurations. Moreover, the beam member 196 is resiliently biased toward the open configuration, such that the first and second contacts 194, 198 are normally open. When the first switch assembly 96 is in its closed configuration, the first and second terminals 204, 208 will be in electrical communication via the first and second contacts 194, 198. Conversely, when the first switch assembly 96 is in the open configuration, the first and second contacts 194, 198 will be spaced from each other, thereby ceasing electrical communication between the first and second terminals 204, 208.

[0039] The first switch assembly 96 is mounted to the support base 80 such that movement of the actuation member 84 from its rest position to its actuating position causes the firstswitch assembly to 96 to move from its open configuration to its closed configuration. Specifically, as the actuation member 84 rotates about the paddle pivot axis X3 from its rest position to its actuating position, the actuation member 84 will press and move the distal end of the beam member 196 toward the first contact 194 until the switch assembly 96 assumes its closed configuration. Conversely, movement of the actuation member 84 from its actuating position to its rest position will cause the first switch assembly 96 to move from its closed configuration to its open configuration. Specifically, as the actuation member 84 rotates about the paddle pivot axis X3 from its actuation position to its rest position, the resilient bias of the beam member 196 will cause its distal end to move away from the first contact 194 such that the switch assembly 96 assumes its open configuration.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 9, the water dispensing unit 56 can be installed in the refrigerator 10 such that its switch assembly 96 is operatively coupled to a controller 212 of the refrigerator 10. In particular, the first and second terminals 204, 208 of the switch assembly 86 can be operatively coupled to the controller 212 via first and second control lines 214, 218, respectively. Moreover, the controller 212 can be configured to supply a control signal to the switch assembly 96 via the first control line 214. If the actuation member 84 is in its actuating position, this will cause the switch assembly 96 to assume its closed configuration as discussed above, causing the switch assembly 96 to provide an output signal to the controller 212 (via control line 218) indicating that the actuation member 84 is in its actuating position. Conversely, if the actuation member 84 is in its rest position, this cause the switch assembly 96 to assume its open configuration such that the controller 212 does not receive any output signal from the first switch assembly 96, thus indicating that the actuation member 84 is in its rest position. In this manner, the controller 212 can determine whether the actuation member 84 is in its rest position or actuating position.

[0041] The water dispensing unit 56 can be further installed such that the controller 212 is operatively coupled to its electric actuator 86. The controller 212 can be configured to initially operate the electric actuator 86 to assume its first configuration, such that its stroke member 162 is in the raised position and the nozzle unit 90 is in its retracted position. If the actuation member 84 is in its rest position (i.e., opening the switch assembly 96), the controller 212 can maintain the electric actuator 86 in its first configuration, such that the nozzle unit 90 remains in its retracted position.

[0042] If a user manipulates the actuation member 84 from its rest position to assume its actuating position (i.e., closing the switch assembly 96), the controller 212 can operate the electric actuator 86 in response to assume its second configuration, such that its strokemember 162 moves to its lowered position and the nozzle unit 90 assumes its dispensing position. In particular, the controller 212 can supply a downward drive signal to the motor 166 of the electric actuator 86 for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 0.2 sec) that operates the motor 166 to move the stroke member 162 from its raised position to its lowered position. If the user then releases the actuation member 84 to assume its rest position (i.e., opening the switch assembly 96), the controller 212 can operate the electric actuator 86 in response to return to its first configuration, such that its stroke member 162 moves to its raised position and the nozzle unit 90 returns to its retracted position. In particular, the controller 212 can supply an upward drive signal to the motor 166 of the electric actuator 86 for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 0.2 sec) that operates the motor 166 to move the stroke member 162 from its lowered position back to its raised position.

[0043] In this manner, the switch assembly 96 and controller 212 can operatively couple the actuation member 84 to the electric actuator 86, such that movement of the actuation member 84 between its rest and actuating positions can selectively operate the electric actuator 86 to assume its first and second configurations, thus selectively operating the nozzle unit 90 accordingly. In particular, movement of the actuation member 84 from its rest position to its actuating position will cause the switch assembly 96 to assume its second (closed) configuration, causing the controller 212 to operate the electric actuator 86 to assume its second configuration, thus moving the nozzle unit 90 to its dispensing position. Meanwhile, movement of the actuation member 84 from its actuating position back to its rest position will cause the switch assembly 96 to assume its first (open) configuration, causing the controller 212 to operate the electric actuator 86 to assume its first configuration, thus returning the nozzle unit 90 to its retracted position.

[0044] However, it is to be appreciated that similar operations can be achieved with various modifications to the components described above. For instance, in some examples, the actuation member 84 can be a push-button switch assembly or a touch button on a touchscreen that is directly connected to the controller 212 (i.e., without the intervening switch assembly 96). In such examples, operation of the actuation member 84 can similarly provide feedback to the controller 212 for selectively operating the electric actuator 86. For the purposes of this disclosure, an “actuation member” can be any device (e.g., paddle, push button, touch button, toggle switch, etc.) that can be manipulated to selectively operate the electric actuator 86.

[0045] Moreover, the first switch assembly 96 can comprise other configurations for operatively coupling the actuation member 84 and electric actuator 86 without departing fromthe scope of the disclosure. For instance, the switch assembly 96 in the present embodiment is configured to assume open and closed configurations when the actuation member 84 respectively assumes its rest and actuating positions. In other examples, the switch assembly 96 may assume closed and open configurations when the actuation member 84 respectively assumes its rest and actuating positions. Moreover, the switch assembly 96 can be a push button switch that is pressed when the actuation member 84 assumes its actuation position, and is released when the actuation member 84 assumes its rest position. The switch assembly 96 can be any electrical switch device that operatively couples the actuation member 84 and electric actuator 86.

[0046] Furthermore, the electric actuator 86 can comprise other linear or non-linear (e.g., rotational) actuator mechanisms without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For instance, the electric actuator 86 may simply comprise a motor that is electrically operable to rotate a shaft between first and second rotational positions. In such examples, the shaft may have a cam that rotates therewith and operatively engages a cam element of the nozzle unit 90 to rotate the nozzle unit 90 accordingly. Broadly speaking, the water dispensing unit 56 can comprise any configuration having a nozzle unit that is movable between retracted and dispensing positions, and an electric actuator that is operatively coupled to the nozzle unit via associated cam elements and is electrically operable to move the nozzle unit between its retracted and dispensing positions.

[0047] Referring back to FIG. 5, the second switch assembly 98 of the water dispensing unit 56 will now be described in further detail. As discussed below, the second switch assembly 98 is configured for operatively coupling the water dispensing unit 56 to a water valve of the refrigerator 10, such that water can be delivered to the nozzle unit 90 when it is in its dispensing position.

[0048] The second switch assembly 98 comprises a main body 222 that is fixed to the support base 80, a first electrical contact 224 that is fixed to the main body 220, a flexible beam member 226 that is coupled at its proximal (lower) end to the main body 222, and a second electrical contact 228 that is fixed to a distal (upper) end of the beam member 226. Moreover, the second switch assembly 98 includes first and second electrical terminals 234, 238 that are fixed to the main body 222 and electrically coupled to the first and second electrical contacts 224, 228, respectively.

[0049] The second switch assembly 98 is operable between a first (open) configuration in which the second contact 228 on the beam member 226 is spaced from the first contact 224, and a second (closed) configuration in which the second contact 228 engages the first contact224. In particular, the distal end of the beam member 226 can flexibly move toward or away from the first contact 224 to adjust the switch assembly 98 between its open and closed configurations. Moreover, the beam member 226 is resiliently biased toward the open configuration, such that the first and second contacts 224, 228 are normally open. When the second switch assembly 98 is in its closed configuration, the first and second terminals 234, 238 will be in electrical communication via the first and second contacts 224, 228. Conversely, when the second switch assembly 98 is in the open configuration, the first and second contacts 224, 228 will be spaced from each other, thereby ceasing electrical communication between the first and second terminals 234, 238.

[0050] The second switch assembly 98 is mounted to the support base 80 such that movement of the nozzle unit 90 from its retracted position (see FIG. 3) to its dispensing position (see FIG. 4) causes the second switch assembly to 98 to move from its open configuration to its closed configuration. Specifically, as the nozzle unit 90 rotates about the nozzle pivot axis Xi from its retracted position toward its dispensing position, the cam surface 148 of the nozzle unit 90 will slidingly engage the distal end of the beam member 226 on the second switch assembly 98. Moreover, because the cam surface 148 extends oblique to the nozzle pivot axis Xi, further rotation of the nozzle unit 90 to its dispensing position will move the distal end of the beam member 226 toward the first contact 224 until the switch assembly 98 finally assumes its closed configuration.

[0051] Conversely, movement of the nozzle unit 90 from its dispensing position to its retracted position will cause the second switch assembly 98 to move from its closed configuration to its open configuration. Specifically, as the nozzle unit 90 rotates about the nozzle pivot axis Xi from its dispensing position to its retracting position, the cam surface 148 of the nozzle unit 90 will disengage and move away from the distal end of the beam member 226. Moreover, the resilient bias of the beam member 226 will cause its distal end to move away from the first contact 224 such that the switch assembly 98 assumes its open configuration.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 9, the water dispensing unit 56 can be installed in the refrigerator 10 such that its switch assembly 98 is operatively coupled to the controller 212 of the refrigerator 10. In particular, the first and second terminals 234, 238 of the switch assembly 98 can be operatively coupled to the controller 212 via first and second control lines 244, 248, respectively. Moreover, the controller 212 can be configured to supply a control signal to the switch assembly 98 via the first control line 244. If the nozzle unit 90 is in its dispensing position, this will cause the switch assembly 98 to assume its closed configurationas discussed above, causing the switch assembly 98 to provide an output signal to the controller 212 (via control line 248) indicating that the nozzle unit 90 is in its dispensing position. Conversely, if the nozzle unit 90 is in its retracted position, this will cause the switch assembly 98 to assume its open configuration such that the controller 212 does not receive any output signal from the switch assembly 98, thus indicating that the nozzle unit 90 is in its retracted position. In this manner, the controller 212 can determine whether the nozzle unit 90 is in its retracted position or dispensing position.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 9, the refrigerator 10 can further include a water source 250 and a water valve 252 that is operable to selectively provide fluid communication between the water source 250 and the inlet portion 116 of the nozzle unit 90. In particular, an inlet 254 of the water valve 252 can be fluidly coupled to the water source 250, and an outlet 256 of the water valve 252 can be fluidly coupled to the inlet portion 116 of the nozzle unit 90. The water valve 252 can be an electric solenoid valve that is electrically operable between open and closed configurations to selectively provide fluid communication between the water source 250 and the inlet portion 116 of the nozzle unit 90.

[0054] The controller 212 of the refrigerator 10 can be operatively coupled to water valve 252 and configured to selectively operate the water valve 252 based on the position of the nozzle unit 90. In particular, the controller 212 can be configured to initially operate the water valve 252 to assume its closed configuration, such that the water source 250 and inlet portion 116 of the nozzle unit 90 are not in fluid communication. If the nozzle unit 90 is in its retracted position (i.e., opening the switch assembly 98), the controller 212 can maintain the water valve 252 in its closed position. However, if the actuation member 84 is pressed to move the nozzle unit 90 to its dispensing position (i.e., closing the switch assembly 98), the controller 212 can operate the water valve 252 in response to assume its open configuration, such that water is supplied from the water source 250 to the nozzle unit 90 via the water valve 252. Moreover, if the actuation member 84 is then released to return the nozzle unit 90 to its retracted position (i.e., opening the switch assembly 98), the controller 212 can operate the water valve 252 to return to its closed configuration.

[0055] In this manner, the switch assembly 98 and controller 212 are configured for operatively coupling the nozzle unit 90 to the water valve 252 of the refrigerator 10, such that movement of the nozzle unit 90 between its retracted and dispensing positions can selectively operate the water valve 252 to assume its closed and open configurations, thus selectively supplying water to the nozzle unit 90 accordingly. In particular, movement of the actuation member 84 from its rest position to its actuating position will cause the nozzle unit 90 tomove from its retracted position to its dispensing position as described above. Such movement of the nozzle unit 90 will cause the switch assembly 98 to assume its closed configuration, causing the controller 212 to open the water valve 252 such that water is supplied to the nozzle unit 90 in its dispensing position. Thus, the second switch assembly 98 assures that the nozzle unit 90 is in the extended position before the water valve 252 is opened, and therefore water cannot be dispensed from the nozzle unit 90 until both of the first and second switches 96, 98 are closed (actuated). Meanwhile, movement of the actuation member 84 from its actuating position back to its rest position will cause the nozzle unit 90 to move from its dispensing position back to its retracted position. Such movement of the nozzle unit 90 will cause the switch assembly 98 to assume its open configuration, causing the controller 212 to close the water valve 252 such that water supply to the nozzle unit 90 ceases in its retracted position.

[0056] However, the second switch assembly 98 can comprise other configurations for operatively coupling the water dispensing unit 56 and water valve 252 without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For instance, the switch assembly 98 in the present embodiment is configured to assume open and closed configurations when the nozzle unit 90 respectively assumes its retracted and dispensing positions. In other examples, the switch assembly 98 may assume closed and open configurations when the nozzle unit 90 respectively assumes its retracted and dispensing positions. Moreover, the switch assembly 98 can be a push button switch that is pressed when the nozzle unit 90 assumes its dispensing position, and is released when the nozzle unit 90 assumes its retracted position. The switch assembly 98 can be any electrical switch device that can operatively couple the water dispensing unit 56 and water valve 252.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 2, the combined assembly 50 as described above is preferably configured such that its exposed features will be substantially flush with each other and the sidewall 40c of the inner liner 18 when the actuation member 84 is in its rest position and the nozzle unit 90 is in its retracted position. Specifically, the exposed front surfaces of the housing 60, cover panel 74, support base 80, and nozzle unit 90 will all be substantially flush with each other and the sidewall 40c of the inner liner 18, thus providing a clean appearance that does not obstruct access to the fresh food compartment 26. Moreover, in some examples, the support base 80 of the water dispensing unit 56 may be integrally formed with the housing 60 and / or sidewall 40c of the inner liner 18.

[0058] Turning FIGS. 10-14, a second embodiment of the water dispensing unit 56 will now be described. Elements similar to those of the first embodiment are designated by thesame reference numerals. Accordingly, a detailed explanation of such elements will be omitted or simplified, and differences will be mainly described.

[0059] The second embodiment of the water dispensing unit 56 is mainly different from the first embodiment with respect to the configuration of the nozzle unit 90 and how it pivotally couples to the support base 80. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the nozzle unit 90 in the second embodiment is pivotally coupled to the support base 80 via a pivot rod 278 that extends through associated apertures 280, 284 in the nozzle unit 90 and support base 80. Moreover, the water dispensing unit 56 includes a torsion spring 288 that is mounted on the pivot rod 278 configured to bias the nozzle unit 90 towards the retracted position.

[0060] The torsion spring 288 is a continuous wire that forms first and second coiled portions 290a, 290b, a U-shaped portion 292 that extends between and connects the first and second coiled portions 290a, 290b, and first and second end portions 294a, 294b that respectively extend from the first and second coiled portions 290a, 290b. The pivot rod 278 extends through the first and second coiled portions 290a, 290b, and the first and second end portions 294a, 294b can be arranged within respective channels 296a, 296b on an upper side of the support base 80. Meanwhile, the U-shaped portion 292 can be received within a pair of channels 298 (see FIG. 11) on a rear side of the nozzle unit 90.

[0061] Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the right sidewall 110b (i.e., first nozzle cam element) of the nozzle unit 90 in the second embodiment comprises a cam surface 304 having a concave portion 306a and a substantially planar portion 306b. Moreover, the second cam element 142 now extends upward from the left sidewall 110a.

[0062] The actuation member 84, electric actuator 86, and first switch assembly 96 in the second embodiment are similarly configured such that movement of the actuation member 84 between its rest and actuating positions can selectively translate the stroke member 162 of the electric actuator 86 between its raised and lowered positions. When the actuation member 84 is in its rest position and the stroke member 162 is in its raised position (see FIG. 13), the torsion spring 288 will bias the nozzle unit 90 to assume its retracted position, such that the concave portion 306a of its cam surface 304 engages the cylindrical portion 170 of the stroke member 162. Moreover, when the actuation member 84 is moved to its actuating position and causes the stroke member 162 to translate downward to its lowered position (see FIG. 14), the cylindrical portion 170 of the stroke member 162 will slidingly engage and exert downward-outward force on the cam surface 304 of the nozzle unit 90, thus causing the nozzle unit 90 to rotate about the nozzle pivot axis Xi (and against the biasing force of thetorsion spring 288) to its dispensing position. In particular, the cylindrical portion 170 will slide along the cam surface 304 until it engages the substantially planar portion 306b.

[0063] To return the nozzle unit 90 back to its retracted position, the actuation member 84 can be released such that it returns to its rest position and causes the stroke member 162 to translate upward to its raised position (see FIG. 13). As the cylindrical portion 170 of the stroke member 162 translates upward, the biasing force of the torsion spring 288 will rotate the nozzle unit 90 back towards its retracted position, thus keeping the cam surface 304 of the nozzle unit 90 in sliding engagement with the cylindrical portion 170. In particular, the cylindrical portion 170 will slide along the cam surface 304 until it reengages the concave portion 306a and the nozzle unit 90 assumes its retracted position.

[0064] As noted above, the second cam element 142 of the nozzle unit 90 in the second embodiment extends upward from its left sidewall 110a. However, the cam surface 148 of the second cam element 142 will similarly cooperate with the second switch assembly 98 during movement of the nozzle unit 90 such that water is delivered to the nozzle unit 90 in its dispensing position, and is ceased when the nozzle unit 90 in its retracted position.

[0065] Various embodiments of the water dispensing unit 56 have been described. As discussed above, each embodiment has various components with one or more cam elements that are configured to cooperate with other features of the water dispensing unit 56. For the purpose of this disclosure, a “cam element” can be any structure that is configured to slidingly engage and cooperate with another structure such that movement of one of the structures causes movement of the other structure in a different path / direction. For example, in both embodiments of the water dispensing unit 56 described above, the cylindrical portion 170 of the electric actuator 86 and right sidewall 110b of the nozzle unit 90 are both cam elements that slidingly engage each other during operation of the electric actuator 86, such that linear motion of the cylindrical portion 170 causes rotational movement of the right sidewall 110b. However, the structures and motions of these cam elements can vary by embodiment without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

[0066] The invention has been described with reference to the example embodiments described above. Modifications and alterations will occur to others upon a reading and understanding of this specification. Example embodiments incorporating one or more aspects of the invention are intended to include all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A water dispenser unit comprising: a support base; a nozzle unit movably coupled to the support base such that the nozzle unit is movable between a retracted position and a dispensing position, wherein the nozzle unit includes: an inlet portion for receiving water, an outlet portion for dispensing water, the outlet portion being in fluid communication with the inlet portion, and a first nozzle cam element; and an electric actuator that is operable between a first actuator configuration and a second actuator configuration, the electric actuator having an actuator cam element that is configured to operatively engage the first nozzle cam element such that operation of the electric actuator from the first actuator configuration to the second actuator configuration causes the nozzle unit to move from the retracted position to the dispensing position, and operation of the electric actuator from the second actuator configuration to the first actuator configuration causes the nozzle unit to move from the dispensing position to the retracted position.

2. The water dispensing unit according to claim 1, further comprising an actuation member configured for selectively operating the electric actuator between the first actuator configuration and the second actuator configuration.

3. The water dispensing unit according to claim 2, wherein: the actuation member is movably coupled to the support base such that the actuation member is movable between a first position and a second position, and the actuation member is configured for selectively operating the electric actuator such that movement of the actuation member from the first position to the second position causes the electric actuator to assume the second actuator configuration, and movement of the actuation member from the second position to the first position causes the electric actuator to assume the first actuator configuration.

4. The water dispensing unit according to claim 3, further comprising a spring that biases the actuation member from the second position toward the first position.

5. The water dispensing unit according to claim 3, wherein the actuation member is pivotally coupled to the support base such that the actuation member is rotatable between the first position and second position.

6. The water dispensing unit according to claim 3, further comprising a switch assembly configured for operatively coupling the actuation member to the electric actuator, the switch assembly being operable between a first switch configuration and a second switch configuration, wherein: the switch assembly is configured for operating the electric actuator such that operation of the switch assembly from the first switch configuration to the second switch configuration causes the electric actuator to assume the second actuator configuration, and operation of the switch assembly from the second switch configuration to the first switch configuration causes the electric actuator to assume the first actuator configuration, and the water dispensing unit is configured such that movement of the actuation member from the first position to the second position causes the switch assembly to assume the second switch configuration, and movement of the actuation member from the second position to the first position causes the switch assembly to assume the first switch configuration.

7. A refrigerator comprising: a cabinet defining at least one compartment for storing food items; a door for providing selective access to the at least one compartment; the water dispensing unit according to claim 3; and a controller that operatively couples the actuation member to the electric actuator, wherein the controller is configured to: operate the electric actuator to assume the second actuator configuration in response to movement of the actuation member from the first position to the second position, and operate the electric actuator to assume the first actuator configuration in response to movement of the actuation member from the second position to the first position.

8. The water dispensing unit according to claim 1, further comprising a switch assembly for operatively controlling a water valve of a refrigerator, the switch assembly being operable between a first switch configuration and a second switch configuration, wherein the water dispensing unit is configured such that movement of the nozzle unit from the retracted position to the dispensing position causes the switch assembly to assume the second switch configuration, and movement of the nozzle unit from the dispensing position to the retracted position causes the switch assembly to assume the first switch configuration.

9. The water dispensing unit according to claim 8, wherein the nozzle unit includes a second nozzle cam element configured to operatively engage the switch assembly such that movement of the nozzle unit from the retracted position to the dispensing position causes the switch assembly to assume the second switch configuration, and movement of the nozzle unit from the dispensing position to the retracted position causes the switch assembly to assume the first switch configuration.

10. The water dispensing unit according to claim 9, wherein: the nozzle unit is pivotally coupled to the support base such that the nozzle unit is rotatable about a pivot axis between the retracted position and the dispensing position, and the second nozzle cam element comprises a cam surface that extends oblique to the pivot axis.

11. A refrigerator comprising: a cabinet defining at least one compartment for storing food items; a door for providing selective access to the at least one compartment; the water dispensing unit according to claim 1; a water source for supplying water to the inlet portion of the nozzle unit; a water valve being configured for providing selective fluid communication between the water source and inlet portion of the nozzle unit, the water valve being operable between: a first valve configuration in which the water source and inlet portion are not in fluid communication via the water valve, and a second valve configuration that establishes fluid communication between the water source and the inlet portion; anda controller that operatively couples the nozzle unit to the water valve, wherein the controller is configured to: operate the water valve to assume the first valve configuration in response to movement of the nozzle unit from the dispensing position to the retracted position, and operate the water valve to assume the second valve configuration in response to movement of the nozzle unit from the retracted position to the dispensing position.

12. The water dispensing unit according to claim 1, wherein the electric actuator comprises: a housing, a stroke member that is translatable relative to housing between a first position and a second position, wherein the stroke member comprises the actuator cam element, and an electric motor that is operable to translate the stroke member between the first position and the second position.

13. The water dispensing unit according to claim 12, wherein the actuator cam element is a cylindrical portion of the stroke member.

14. The water dispensing unit according to claim 1, wherein the first nozzle cam element defines a cam channel.

15. The water dispensing unit according to claim 14, wherein the cam channel is a doublecurved channel.

16. The water dispensing unit according to claim 14, wherein the cam channel comprises a main portion and first and second end portions that extend from opposite ends of the main portion in opposing directions.

17. The water dispensing unit according to claim 1, wherein the first nozzle cam element comprises a cam surface having a concave portion.

18. The water dispensing unit according to claim 17, wherein the cam surface further comprises a substantially planar portion.

19. The water dispensing unit according to claim 1, further comprising a spring configured to bias the nozzle unit from the dispensing position toward the retracted position.

20. The water dispensing unit according to claim 19, wherein the spring is a torsion spring.

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