Piezo-Disc Touch Sensor Assembly for Metallic Refrigerator Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refrigerators with metallic front panels face challenges in integrating touch sensors due to static electricity leakage and the difficulty in applying buttons that require constant pressure, making it hard to achieve a hidden touch sensing mechanism that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Innovation Solution
A touch sensor assembly is designed with a simple structure and few parts, using a touch board and piezo discs attached to the rear side of a metallic panel via adhesive members and support members, allowing for high sensitivity and durability against repetitive inputs, while maintaining a sleek appearance by hiding the touch points until in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electrostatic touch sensors are applied to metallic refrigerator doors, then touch sensing function is achieved, but static electricity leakage occurs causing unreliable sensing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (mechanical touch structure with movable panel section) between the user and the metallic panel to transfer touch input without direct electrical contact, thereby avoiding static electricity leakage issues while maintaining reliable sensing on metallic surfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electrostatic sensing mechanism with a mechanical touch detection system that uses physical displacement of a panel section to trigger sensing, substituting electrical field-based detection with mechanical movement-based detection to eliminate static electricity interference
2Ease of operation
If constant pressure buttons are applied to metallic panels, then button function is achieved, but difficulty in application occurs due to metal resistance to flexure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the panel into a fixed section and a movable section, allowing the movable section to flex independently under touch pressure while the fixed section remains stable, thereby enabling button functionality on metallic panels without requiring the entire panel to be flexible
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies flexibility only to the specific region where button input is needed (movable panel section) while maintaining rigidity in other areas, creating localized tactile feedback without compromising the overall structural integrity of the metallic panel
3Ease of operation
If touch buttons are displayed on metallic front panels, then user interaction is enabled, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates due to visible buttons and display
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic display mechanism where the panel section transitions between a flat aesthetic state and a depressed interactive state, allowing the interface to adapt its appearance based on user interaction while maintaining visual appeal during non-use periods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent embeds the touch input mechanism within the metallic panel itself through a movable section that integrates seamlessly with the panel's surface, creating a nested structure where the functional element is concealed within the aesthetic shell until activation
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 provides reliable touch sensing on metallic panels with high sensitivity and durability, allowing for a hidden button mechanism that enhances user interaction without compromising the appliance's aesthetic appeal.
Implementation Method 1
piezo discs which have a first electrode and a second electrode disposed thereon in an overlapping manner
Data Source
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AI summary
An appliance according to an implementation of the present disclosure includes: a front panel that forms the external shape of the appliance and has touch point; a touch board that includes: a first side attached to a position of a rear surface of the front panel, the position corresponding to the touch point; and a second side opposite to the first side; a pressing portion; and holes formed around the pressing portion; a holder that is disposed at a position covering the pressing portion and the holes and coupled to the second side of the touch board, the holder having a receiving portion; a piezo disc that is inserted in the receiving portion of the holder and has a first electrode and a second electrode to be in contact with the pressing portions; a guide board that has a seating hole for receiving the holder and the piezo disc and is disposed on the second side of the touch board; and an adhesive member that is attached to the first side of the touch board.