Integrated Refrigerator Dispenser Actuator Module for Easier Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and cost of assembling refrigeration appliance dispensers are increased due to the need for multiple separate components, including mechanical levers, electrical switches, and styling elements, which are attached separately to the dispenser housing or cabinet.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained actuation device module is provided, fully assembled and ready to attach to the dispenser housing or refrigeration appliance, incorporating an electrical actuation device, wiring, connector, and styling elements within a housing with an integral attachment mechanism that eliminates the need for additional fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate components (mechanical lever, electrical switch, styling elements) are attached separately to the dispenser housing, then each component can be independently manufactured and assembled, but the assembly complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mechanical lever, electrical switch, and styling elements into a single integrated actuator assembly. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate attachment operations and reduces the number of individual parts that must be assembled at the dispenser housing, directly reducing assembly complexity while maintaining the ability to manufacture components independently before final integration.
2Reliability
If multiple separate components are assembled onto the dispenser housing with separate fasteners, then functional requirements are met, but the number of parts and assembly steps increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating multiple functional components into a single actuator assembly, the patent reduces the number of assembly steps required at the dispenser housing. The integrated design maintains all necessary functional requirements while enabling a single attachment operation instead of multiple separate fastening operations, thereby improving assembly efficiency and productivity.
3Strength
If separate fasteners are used to attach components to the dispenser housing, then secure attachment is achieved, but additional parts and assembly complexity are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated actuator assembly consolidates multiple components that would otherwise require separate fasteners into a single unit. This reduces the total number of parts while maintaining secure attachment through a single fastening mechanism, thereby reducing device complexity without compromising attachment security.
Data Source
AI summary
A ready to attach actuation device module is provided for use with a dispenser, such as an ice or water dispenser in a refrigerator. The module includes an electrical actuation device, a wiring lead extending from the actuation device and an electrical connector attached at an end of the wiring lead. A housing encloses the actuation device and at least a portion of the wiring lead. The module incorporates an attachment mechanism which is engageable with the dispenser. The housing includes all stylings for the actuation device module.