Dispenser Autofill Using Image-Based Container Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerator and countertop dispensers lack an effective automatic cut-off feature and fail to accurately detect container dimensions, volume, and positioning, leading to inconsistent ice and water dispensing, especially with varying container shapes and improper placement.
Innovation Solution
A digital imaging sensor system is integrated into the dispenser to capture images of the container, analyzing its dimensions, volume, and positioning, allowing for precise control of dispensing operations and automatic cut-off to prevent overflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical or membrane switches are used for actuation, then the dispenser can be operated with simple controls, but the switches wear out over time requiring replacement and lack automatic cut-off capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical switches and membrane switches with an optical sensing system using photoelectric sensors. The sensor detects container presence and position optically without physical contact, eliminating mechanical wear and enabling automatic cut-off based on detected container characteristics rather than pressure-based actuation.
2Extent of automation
If existing automatic cut-off controls based solely on container height are used, then the dispenser can stop dispensing, but the system cannot accurately detect container dimensions and positioning leading to improper dispensing amounts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional height-based detection to multi-dimensional detection by using optical sensors to measure container position, size, and shape characteristics in multiple dimensions. This enables accurate determination of container volume and proper dispensing amounts rather than relying solely on height measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical sensing system as an intermediary between the container and the control system. The photoelectric sensors detect container characteristics and transmit this information to the controller, which then determines the appropriate dispensing amount based on the detected container dimensions and position.
3Ease of operation
If sensors or displays are mounted on a bezel, then the dispenser has a complete control interface, but the bezel cannot be changed without significant modification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sensing function from the bezel structure by mounting photoelectric sensors on the dispenser housing or mounting bracket rather than on the bezel itself. This separation allows the bezel to be changed or removed without affecting the sensing system, while the control interface functions remain intact.
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
The system ensures accurate and efficient dispensing of ice and water by automatically determining the container's characteristics and maintaining proper positioning, preventing spills and ensuring the correct fill level, even with different container shapes and sizes.
Implementation Method 1
a photoelectric sensor arranged in the dispensing well and focused upon a target area in front of the dispensing nozzle
Data Source
AI summary
A dispensing system includes one or more digital image capture devices for capturing images in a dispenser well and a digital image analyzer operatively coupled to the digital image capture device(s) for analyzing the images for use in regulating a dispensing operation. The digital image analyzer evaluates digital images captured by the digital image capture device(s) to determine various characteristics of a container placed in the dispensing well, such as the height and position of the container.