Fridge and / or freezer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerators and freezers with integrated cameras have limited detection areas and inflexible positioning due to their fixed installation, restricting optimal image acquisition within the refrigerated interior.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system comprising two or more cameras with independent communication means and a self-sufficient triggering mechanism, allowing for flexible positioning and operation without central control, enabling precise image capture during door or drawer movements using position and movement sensors, and capable of wireless communication for retrofitting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a single camera is permanently integrated into the refrigerator, then the device structure is simple, but the detection area is limited and positioning flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the imaging function into multiple independent camera units distributed at different locations within the refrigerator. Each camera captures a specific zone, and together they cover the entire interior space, resolving the contradiction between limited detection area and system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from a single-point camera to a multi-point distributed camera system, adding spatial dimensionality to the detection network. This enables comprehensive coverage of the refrigeration space while maintaining individual camera simplicity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a camera is fixedly installed in the refrigerator, then the installation is simple, but the positioning flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is designed to be dynamically configurable rather than statically fixed. Multiple cameras can be positioned at different locations and angles, allowing the system to adapt to various refrigerator configurations and provide optimal viewing angles for different interior zones.
3Reliability
If a central control system is used to trigger cameras, then the control is centralized, but the system dependency on refrigerator control increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each camera unit is equipped with autonomous triggering capabilities through local sensors that detect door opening, drawer movement, or temperature changes. The cameras independently activate and capture images without requiring centralized control signals, making the system self-sufficient and independent of the refrigerator's main control system.
4Area of stationary object
If multiple cameras are added to expand detection area, then the image acquisition coverage is improved, but the coordination and control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The refrigeration interior is divided into multiple detection zones, each assigned to a specific camera. This segmentation eliminates coordination complexity by giving each camera an independent responsibility area, while collectively achieving comprehensive coverage.
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
This solution enhances image acquisition flexibility and efficiency by allowing cameras to capture the refrigerated interior optimally, regardless of device size or configuration, and can be easily retrofitted, ensuring comprehensive and timely image capture without relying on the refrigerator's control systems.
Implementation Method 1
The position and/or movement sensor is preferably a gyroscope, by means of which the opening angle of the appliance door can be detected
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a cooling and/or freezing appliance with a cooled interior and with a camera arranged in the cooled interior, which is arranged to capture an image of the cooled interior or of a section of the cooled interior, wherein two or more than two such cameras are provided, each of which has communication means configured to enable communication between the cameras via a communication system, and wherein at least one triggering mechanism is provided which is suitable to trigger each of the said cameras to capture an image, wherein the communication system is designed to be self-contained.