Operating unit for a fridge and/or freezer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerators and freezers with control units inside limit the flexibility of shelf and storage compartment arrangements due to multiple separate units occupying space.
Innovation Solution
A single integrated control unit with capacitive, resistive, and mechanical operating elements, along with a lighting element, is designed to be flush with the refrigerator's container contour, using a common electronics board and indirect lighting via reflected light, minimizing space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate control units are arranged in the interior of the refrigerator/freezer, then the control functions are provided, but the flexibility of arranging shelves and storage compartments is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate control units (control unit for refrigerator compartment and control unit for freezer compartment) into a single integrated operating unit. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate units occupying interior space, thereby restoring flexibility for shelf and storage compartment arrangements while maintaining all necessary control functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The single operating unit performs multiple functions: it serves as the control unit for the refrigerator compartment, the control unit for the freezer compartment, and the lighting unit for the interior. This multi-functionality consolidates what would traditionally require separate units, reducing component count and improving interior arrangement flexibility.
2Volume of stationary object
If multiple separate control units are arranged in the interior, then control functions are provided, but the volume of the interior is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple separate control units into a single integrated operating unit, the total volume occupied by control components in the interior is significantly reduced. The single unit houses all necessary electronics and components for both refrigerator and freezer control, maximizing the usable interior volume.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a separate lighting unit is arranged in the interior, then the interior is illuminated, but the flexibility of arranging shelves and storage units is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The operating unit integrates the lighting function with the control functions. The lighting element is incorporated into the same housing as the control electronics, eliminating the need for a separate lighting unit. This integration removes another component that would otherwise constrain shelf and storage unit arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating unit serves as a multi-functional component: it provides control for both refrigerator and freezer compartments while simultaneously providing interior lighting. This consolidation of functions into a single unit reduces the number of separate components and improves arrangement flexibility.
4Adaptability or versatility
If control units are arranged in the interior, then control functions are provided, but possibilities for arranging shelves and racks are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges all control functions into a single operating unit that can be mounted in a centralized location (such as on the door or on the rear wall). This consolidation frees up interior space that would have been occupied by multiple separate units, thereby increasing the possibilities for flexible shelf and rack arrangements.
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
Reduces the need for multiple separate units, saves space, and enhances flexibility in interior arrangement by integrating functions into a single unit, reducing component count and costs.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light source of the control unit is arranged relative to the container contour such that light from the light source is reflected by the container contour into an interior of the refrigerator and/or freezer
Implementation Method 2
The door of the refrigerator and/or freezer preferably has at least one magnet at its end region facing the control unit, so that the position of the door relative to the refrigerator and/or freezer can be detected due to the interaction of the magnet and the magnetic field sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a refrigerator and/or freezer with a control unit which is arranged in a recess or opening in a container contour of the refrigerator and/or freezer and is flush with the container contour. The invention further relates to a control unit for a refrigerator and/or freezer.