Ice Maker Clumping Detection Using Operation and Sensing Data Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ice clumping in ice makers of home appliances such as refrigerators causes inconvenience as it prevents the extraction of ice, and existing deep learning models struggle to accurately predict operational errors due to varied user patterns.
Innovation Solution
A management server and method that utilizes a communicator and controller to analyze operation and sensing information over time sections to detect ice clumping, generating alerts or remote control instructions to declump ice, and includes sensors and a controller to determine ice clumping based on extraction operations and fullness sensing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If deep learning model is used to predict operational errors, then prediction capability is provided, but accuracy deteriorates due to varied user patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the monitoring approach into two distinct parts: (1) a rule-based monitoring module that tracks ice extraction operations and bin fullness states, and (2) a deep learning module that processes segmented time-section data. This segmentation allows the rule-based system to handle varied user patterns accurately while the deep learning system focuses on pattern recognition within defined segments, resolving the accuracy issue.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the analysis by dividing monitoring data into multiple time sections and adapting the detection strategy based on current bin fullness states and extraction patterns. The system transitions between different detection modes depending on whether the bin is full, partially full, or empty, allowing accurate real-time detection despite varying user behaviors.
2Reliability
If cold air is supplied to ice bin to maintain ice state, then ice storage is maintained, but ice clumping occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary detection of ice clumping by continuously monitoring extraction operations and bin fullness states before clumping severely impacts ice usability. The system detects early signs of clumping through abnormal patterns in extraction frequency and bin fullness readings, allowing preventive measures to be taken before the problem worsens.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback loop where the monitoring system continuously tracks ice extraction operations and bin fullness states, compares them against expected patterns, and provides feedback when anomalies indicate potential clumping. This feedback mechanism enables the system to respond to developing clumping issues while maintaining necessary cold air supply for ice storage.
3Measurement precision
If ice extraction operation is monitored continuously, then ice clumping detection accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing ice maker controller multi-functional by enabling it to perform both its primary ice making/control functions and the secondary function of monitoring extraction operations and bin fullness states for clumping detection. This universality approach allows accurate monitoring without adding separate dedicated hardware systems, thereby reducing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a self-service monitoring system where the ice maker's existing sensors and controller automatically track extraction operations and bin fullness states without requiring external monitoring equipment. The system uses its own built-in capabilities to detect clumping conditions, eliminating the need for additional complex monitoring infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a management server for an ice maker that includes: a communicator configured to receive operation information on extraction of ice stored in the ice maker and sensing information on an amount of the ice stored in the ice maker; and a controller configured, based on the received operation information and sensing information in a first time section and the received operation information and sensing information in a second time section after the first time section, to determine whether the ice stored in the ice maker is clumped in the second time section.