Refrigerator Dispenser Optical Sensing for Accurate Cup Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing apparatuses in refrigerators require physical contact with a container to determine the dispensing position, which can lead to user errors such as overfilling and inefficient dispensing.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing apparatus equipped with a sensor that senses the position of a container without contact, sending signals to a microprocessor and indicator to provide visual or audible cues for accurate positioning and controlled dispensing of water and ice.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a paddle or cradle is used to detect container position through physical contact, then the dispensing position can be determined, but user errors such as overfilling occur and dispensing efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical paddle/cradle contact system with an optical sensor system that detects container position without physical contact. The sensor detects the presence and position of the container through optical means, eliminating the need for mechanical interaction while providing accurate position determination for efficient dispensing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical sensor as an intermediary between the dispensing system and the container. This intermediary detects container position indirectly through optical signals rather than direct mechanical contact, enabling accurate position detection while preventing the mechanical issues that cause overfilling and inefficiency.
2Device complexity
If a paddle or cradle is used to determine dispensing position, then the system is simple in structure, but it requires physical contact which leads to user errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the simple mechanical paddle/cradle structure with an optical sensing system. While the optical system adds some complexity, it eliminates the reliability issues of mechanical contact by using non-contact detection, thereby improving dispensing accuracy without significantly increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical sensor system enables the dispensing apparatus to automatically detect container position and control dispensing without requiring user interaction with mechanical components. The system serves itself by autonomously determining when to start and stop dispensing based on sensor feedback, eliminating user errors.
3Ease of operation
If visual and physical cues from the cradle are used, then container positioning is guided, but the system cannot prevent overfilling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where the optical sensor continuously monitors container position and dispensing progress. The sensor provides real-time feedback to the control system, which automatically adjusts or stops dispensing when the container is full or properly positioned, preventing overfilling while maintaining easy container positioning guidance.
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
Ensures accurate and efficient dispensing by allowing users to know when the container is correctly positioned, preventing overfilling and ensuring timely dispensing without physical contact, thus enhancing user experience and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor is configured to sense a position of a container without contacting the container
Data Source
AI summary
A dispensing apparatus for determining a location of a container into which at least one of a liquid and ice is dispensed from a refrigerator. A sensor is configured to sense a position of the container, without contacting the container, and to send a first signal indicating the sensed position. A microprocessor is configured to receive the first signal and to send a second signal based on the first signal. An indicator is configured to receive the second signal and to indicate the position of the container.