Dispenser Autofill Using Digital Image Capture for Container Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerator and countertop dispensers lack an effective way to detect the dimensions, volume, and positioning of containers, leading to inconsistent ice and water dispensing, especially with varying container shapes, and often require manual control or mechanical switches that wear out, with no automatic cut-off feature to prevent overflow.
Innovation Solution
A digital imaging sensor system is integrated into the dispenser to capture images of the container, analyzing its dimensions, volume, and positioning to automatically control the dispensing operation, ensuring accurate filling and preventing overflow by using multiple digital image capture devices and image processing algorithms to determine the container's characteristics and align it properly with the dispensing nozzle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual control or mechanical switches are used, then the dispenser can operate, but the switches wear out over time and require replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical switches with optical sensors (digital image capture devices) that detect container presence and characteristics without physical contact. This eliminates wear and tear on mechanical components while maintaining reliable operation.
2Extent of automation
If existing automatic cut-off controls based solely on container height are used, then some automation is achieved, but they are not effective for various container shapes and positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional height-based detection to two-dimensional digital image capture, enabling detection of container width, shape, and position. This multi-dimensional approach allows accurate identification of various container types and shapes, improving both automation and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces simple height sensors with digital image capture devices and image processing algorithms that can analyze container characteristics visually, providing more precise detection of container shape, size, and position for accurate dispensing control.
3Ease of operation
If sensors or displays are mounted on a bezel, then the dispenser has control functionality, but the bezel cannot be changed without significant modification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sensor system from the bezel structure and integrates it directly into the dispenser housing. This separation allows the bezel to be changed or removed independently without affecting the sensor functionality, improving both ease of operation and adaptability.
4Productivity
If a container is not properly located within the dispenser well, then the dispenser can still operate, but either too little or too much water/ice will be dispensed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses digital image capture devices to continuously monitor container position and characteristics, providing feedback to the control system. This enables real-time adjustment of dispensing parameters to ensure accurate filling regardless of container placement, maintaining both productivity and precision.
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 enables precise and automatic dispensing of ice and water based on container characteristics, preventing overflow and allowing for hands-free operation, while maintaining the flexibility to change the bezel module without interference.
Implementation Method 1
The sensing system employs at least one digital image capture device focused upon the dispensing area
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.