Edge-Lit Dispenser Indicator for Clear Mode Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ice and water dispensers in refrigerators require additional user input to verify the dispenser mode and often have uneven light distribution or the need for multiple LEDs, making it difficult for users to quickly locate the current mode in low-light situations.
Innovation Solution
An edge-lit indicator system using a transparent display layer with a pattern portion and a light source that redirects light through the pattern to indicate different modes with minimal LEDs, allowing for efficient and aesthetically pleasing mode identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If multiple LEDs are used to indicate different dispenser modes, then the current mode can be displayed, but the device complexity increases and it becomes difficult for users to quickly locate the mode information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple mode indicators into a single display element. A single LED illuminates different portions of a patterned translucent layer to indicate different dispenser modes, replacing what would traditionally require multiple separate LEDs. This merging reduces device complexity while maintaining clear mode indication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from point-source LED indicators to a distributed pattern indication system. By using a translucent layer with patterns that are illuminated from behind, the system spreads the indication across a two-dimensional surface, allowing multiple modes to be displayed simultaneously in different spatial regions of the same indicator element.
2Illumination intensity
If LED backlit displays are used to indicate dispenser mode, then the mode can be displayed, but the light distribution becomes uneven requiring multiple LEDs for each indicator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating different optical properties in different regions of the translucent layer. Patterns are selectively applied to specific portions of the layer, and the single LED illuminates these different regions to indicate different modes. This allows uniform illumination from a single source while maintaining distinct regional characteristics for different mode indications.
3Ease of operation
If indicators are always on to display the mode without user input, then the mode is always visible, but the device complexity increases and light distribution becomes uneven
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by having the indicator illuminate in response to user interaction (such as pressing a button or approaching the dispenser). Rather than being continuously on, the indicator activates periodically when needed, reducing energy consumption and simplifying the overall system while maintaining ease of operation when the user needs to check the mode.
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 solution enables users to easily identify the dispenser mode without additional physical steps and reduces the number of LEDs required, improving usability and light distribution for quick mode recognition in low-light conditions.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light source configured to transmit light through the at least one display layer in the direction of the at least one edge surface
Implementation Method 2
at least one pattern portion disposed in the at least one display surface such that light from the at least one light source is redirected through the at least one pattern portion
Data Source
AI summary
An indicator for a dispenser is disclosed. The indicator includes at least one display layer having at least one display surface surrounded by at least one edge surface, the at least one display layer being transparent in a direction of the at least one edge surface; at least one light source configured to transmit light through the at least one display layer in the direction of the at least one edge surface; and at least one pattern portion disposed in the at least one display surface such that light from the at least one light source is redirected through the at least one pattern portion.