Human-computer interaction method for storage device inside refrigerator, and refrigerator

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for adjusting refrigerator functions are cumbersome and lack user-friendly interaction, requiring users to close the refrigerator door for adjustments and offering limited control over specific areas, resulting in poor user experience and visual interaction.

Innovation Solution

A human-machine interaction method featuring an operation panel with a knob module and touch-sensitive keys, allowing users to adjust refrigeration parameters and display states directly on the panel, enabling intuitive control of independent drawers and improving interaction richness.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If keys on a display board arranged outside the refrigerator are used for adjustment, then the refrigerator functions can be controlled, but the operation process is cumbersome and requires the refrigerator to be closed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation convenienceVSAvoidadjustment time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

A wireless communication module is introduced as an intermediary between the user and the refrigerator control system. The module receives control instructions through wireless signals (WiFi, Bluetooth, or NFC) and transmits them to the main control board, enabling remote operation without physical contact with the refrigerator exterior. This resolves the contradiction by allowing users to adjust functions without closing the refrigerator door, eliminating the time loss while maintaining operational capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If keys on a display board arranged outside the refrigerator are used, then general refrigerator control is possible, but specific areas inside the refrigerator cannot be controlled alone

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol scopeVSAvoiduser experience
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is segmented into multiple independent control modules, each corresponding to a specific storage area inside the refrigerator. Each module can be independently controlled through the wireless communication interface, allowing users to adjust temperature and other parameters for individual compartments without affecting others. This segmentation enables precise control of specific areas while maintaining overall system versatility, significantly improving user experience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Extent of automation

If traditional display board control is used, then refrigerator functions can be adjusted, but visual interaction and user experience are poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinteraction intelligenceVSAvoidvisual experience
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The traditional mechanical key-based control system is replaced with a smart wireless communication module that supports multiple interaction modes including WiFi app control, Bluetooth proximity control, and NFC tap control. This substitution introduces intelligent features such as remote monitoring, automated adjustments, and enhanced visual feedback through mobile device interfaces, dramatically improving both interaction intelligence and visual experience while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentEP4053480B1Human-computer interaction method for storage device inside refrigerator, and refrigerator
Publication Date: 2023.10.04 QINDAO HAIER REFRIGERATOR CO LTD
  • EP4053480B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4053480B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4053480B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

A human-machine interaction method for a storage device inside a refrigerator, and a refrigerator (1000) are provided. The storage device is arranged in a storage compartment of the refrigerator (1000), and the storage device is provided with an operation panel (220). An operation surface of the operation panel (220) is provided with a knob module (340) having a display screen (341), and a touch-sensitive key module (510). The human-machine interaction method includes: acquiring a startup trigger signal of the operation panel (220); acquiring an operation instruction received by the knob module (340) and/or the touch-sensitive key module (510); and making a response to the operation instruction according to a preset interaction solution, and driving the display screen (341) to display a corresponding interface. A user can adjust the functions of the refrigerator (1000) through the knob module (340) and the touch-sensitive key module (510). The human-machine interaction mode is simple and convenient, and the intelligence of the refrigerator (1000) as an intelligent household appliance is significantly improved.