Refrigeration appliance comprising a camera module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current refrigeration appliances lack an effective method to automatically determine the freshness of perishable items, leading to potential spoilage and user unawareness of expired items.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a camera module that captures image data at different times to analyze changes in the item's state of freshness, using a freshness determination device that compares image data to determine ripeness or spoilage, and optionally utilizing infrared imaging and manual input for type identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a camera module is added to detect image data of items, then automatic freshness detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual freshness checking with an automated optical detection system. A camera module captures images of items, and image processing algorithms automatically analyze color changes to determine freshness, substituting human visual inspection with machine-based optical detection and computational analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces image data as an intermediary between the item and the freshness determination. The camera module converts physical item properties (color, appearance) into digital image data, which then serves as the basis for automated freshness analysis, creating an indirect but measurable connection.
2Measurement precision
If multiple camera modules are used to capture images from different perspectives, then measurement precision of freshness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection task into multiple segments by using several camera modules positioned at different locations and angles. Each camera captures specific aspects of the item, and the combined data provides comprehensive coverage for more accurate freshness assessment from multiple perspectives.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds spatial dimensions to the detection system by positioning camera modules at different heights, angles, and locations within the refrigeration compartment. This multi-dimensional arrangement captures the item from various viewpoints, enhancing the precision of freshness determination through comprehensive visual data.
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
Enables automatic and reliable detection of perishable item freshness, informing users when items have exceeded a predetermined freshness state, thereby reducing food waste and improving storage management.
Implementation Method 1
a camera module for detecting first image data of an item to be refrigerated
Implementation Method 2
the camera module comprises a light sensor array for detecting the first or second image data
Implementation Method 3
the camera module comprises a dichroic element for simultaneously detecting the image data in the visible spectral range and in the infrared spectral range
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigeration appliance includes a camera module for detecting first image data of an item to be refrigerated at a first time point and second image data of the item to be refrigerated at a second time point. A freshness determination device is provided for determining the state of freshness of the item to be refrigerated based on the first image data and the second image data.