Refrigerator appliance and sound emitting device and method for operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refrigerator appliances face challenges with machine-readable code scanning due to recessed dispensers obstructing access and obscuring codes, and misaligned audio communication structures, hindering effective interaction with users.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerator appliance design featuring a scanner assembly positioned behind an external wall with a scanner device and targeting device angled towards a recess, accompanied by a sound emitting device and controller for enhanced scanning and audio feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the dispenser assembly includes a recess extending into the door, then the dispenser can egress fluid and ice toward the recess, but the recess prevents access or positioning of containers larger than the recess and obscures machine-readable codes
Solution Approach 1:
The scanner assembly is positioned at an angle toward the recess rather than directly facing it, allowing the scanner to read codes on containers of various sizes that are placed in the recess. This angular positioning creates a scanning path that accommodates different container dimensions while maintaining code readability.
2Shape
If the scanner assembly is positioned behind the external wall, then the aesthetic appeal is maintained, but the machine-readable code may be obscured and unreadable
Solution Approach 1:
A light source is introduced as an intermediary element that illuminates the machine-readable code on containers placed in the recess. This lighting component ensures that codes remain readable even when the scanner assembly is positioned behind the external wall for aesthetic purposes, as the light enables the scanner to detect the illuminated code patterns.
3Device complexity
If structures and methods for communicating an audio signal are misaligned to various user functions, then the audio communication may not be properly synchronized with user interactions
Solution Approach 1:
The sound emitting device is communicatively coupled to the scanner assembly, creating a feedback loop where the scanner's detection of machine-readable codes triggers appropriate audio signals. This feedback mechanism ensures that audio communications are properly synchronized with user interactions, such as confirming code reading success or providing guidance during the scanning process.
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
Facilitates improved scanning of machine-readable codes by ensuring clear visibility and audio guidance, allowing for efficient interaction with larger containers and reducing interference from external views or fluid contact.
Implementation Method 1
A sound emitting device is positioned outside of the casing at which the scanner assembly is positioned. The sound emitting device is configured to selectively emit sounds based on a command signal from the scanner assembly.
Implementation Method 2
commanding, at the scanner device, measuring fidelity of scan data from light reflected from the object at the recess
Implementation Method 3
providing, from a lighting component of the refrigerator appliance directed toward or from a recess at a dispenser, light toward the recess
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator appliance is provided, including a dispenser assembly positioned at a door at a cabinet. The dispenser assembly includes a recess extending into the door. The dispenser assembly is configured to egress a fluid, ice, or both, toward the recess. A scanner assembly includes a scanner device and a targeting device. The scanner assembly is positioned at a casing disposing the scanner device and the targeting device at an angle toward the recess. The scanner assembly is positioned at the angle toward the recess and behind the external wall. A sound emitting device is positioned outside of the casing at which the scanner assembly is positioned. The sound emitting device is configured to selectively emit sounds based on a command signal from the scanner assembly. The sound emitting device is communicatively coupled to the scanner assembly.