Dishwasher Gap Reflection Display for Hidden Status Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing household dishwashers with integrated operating displays face challenges in maintaining visibility of the operating status due to the front panel covering the illumination elements when the door is closed, especially with thick panels or unfavorable lighting conditions.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a reflection element, such as a welt, in the gap between the dishwasher and adjacent surfaces to direct and bundle light radiation from illumination elements, improving visibility independently of their arrangement, and using reflective surfaces on the gap walls to enhance the signaling effect.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the front panel thickness is increased to improve integration and aesthetics, then the integration appearance is improved, but the visibility of the operating display is worsened due to additional covering of the light guide
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional light guide system to a three-dimensional light chamber system. By creating a volumetric space (light chamber) between the front panel and the illumination elements, the system allows light to propagate through multiple paths and dimensions, enabling the light to reach the user despite the thick front panel coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a reflection element as an intermediary component between the illumination elements and the user's view. This reflection element redirects and bundles the light radiation, acting as a mediator that overcomes the blocking effect of the thick front panel and makes the operating display visible again.
2Shape
If the gap between the dishwasher and adjacent surfaces is reduced to improve integration, then the integration appearance is improved, but the visibility of the operating display is worsened due to limited light propagation space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a light chamber that utilizes the vertical dimension (depth from front panel) to compensate for the reduced horizontal gap. By allowing light to travel through the depth of the light chamber and bounce off reflection elements, the system maintains visibility even when the lateral gap to adjacent surfaces is minimized for better integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflection element serves as a crucial intermediary that redirects light within the constrained space. By positioning the reflection element to face the illumination elements and redirecting light toward the user, it enables effective light propagation even in the reduced gap scenario, maintaining both integration appearance and display visibility.
3Shape
If the illumination elements are positioned behind the front panel to improve integration, then the integration appearance is improved, but the visibility and recognition of the operating status is worsened under unfavorable lighting conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-positions the reflection element to face the illumination elements before operation. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when the illumination elements activate, the light is immediately redirected through the optimal path via the reflection element, providing strong visible signaling even under unfavorable ambient lighting conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflection element acts as an intermediary that enhances and redirects the light from the hidden illumination elements. By bundling and directing the light radiation toward the user, it compensates for the unfavorable lighting conditions and ensures the operating status remains clearly visible despite the illumination elements being positioned behind the front panel.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures clear and convenient display of the operating status by directing light radiation effectively, even in narrow gaps and varying lighting conditions, enhancing user understanding and visibility.
Implementation Method 1
a reflection element is provided in the gap for directing and/or bundling the light radiation emitted by the illumination elements
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention describes a fitted domestic appliance, in particular a domestic dishwasher, comprising a controllable operating display which has a number of illumination elements for emitting beams of light by means of which a gap which is formed between the domestic appliance and a surface adjacent to the domestic appliance can be illuminated. A reflection element for deflecting and/or bundling the light emitted by the illumination elements is provided in the gap in order to improve the ability to identify the operating display.