Household appliance with camera module, method for releasing an intermediate wall and method for fastening a camera module to an internal wall
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing household appliances, such as refrigerators, face challenges in compactly arranging camera modules for effective item identification and require complex assembly and disassembly processes.
Innovation Solution
The arrangement of at least two camera modules directly one behind the other on the ceiling of the storage compartment, with one camera module having an oblique optical axis and the other oriented approximately vertically, allows for a compact and efficient field of view coverage, and the use of a removable intermediate wall for easy access and replacement of modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If camera modules are arranged side by side on the ceiling, then field of view coverage is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a lateral (side-by-side) arrangement of camera modules to a longitudinal (one behind the other) arrangement along the depth dimension. This dimensional change allows multiple camera modules to be positioned along the ceiling depth, achieving comprehensive field of view coverage without increasing lateral device complexity or requiring additional side space.
2Reliability
If camera modules are firmly attached to the internal wall, then reliability is improved, but ease of repair and replacement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic attachment system where camera modules can be easily inserted and removed from the intermediate wall. The modular design with standardized mounting interfaces allows cameras to be firmly secured during operation while enabling quick replacement when needed, transitioning from a static permanent attachment to a dynamic reversible connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the ceiling structure into a removable intermediate wall segment that can be separated from the main internal wall. This segmentation allows camera modules mounted on the intermediate wall to be accessed and replaced by simply removing the intermediate wall section, without requiring disassembly of the entire ceiling or complex attachment mechanisms.
3Ease of repair
If an intermediate wall is used for camera mounting, then ease of repair is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate wall serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the ceiling, offers mounting surfaces for camera modules, and acts as a removable access panel for maintenance. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby minimizing overall device complexity while improving repair accessibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A household appliance, in particular a refrigerator, includes a storage compartment defined by an internal wall having a loading opening being closable by at least one door. A camera module is disposed on a ceiling of the internal wall. A particularly simple assembly and disassembly of camera modules in a household appliance is provided. A compact arrangement of camera modules in a household appliance is also provided. Images which are particularly well-suited for identifying items to be stored that are deposited in the household appliance, are to be recorded by the camera modules. A method for releasing an intermediate wall and a method for fastening a camera module to an internal wall are also provided.