Refrigerator appliance and assembly for code reading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refrigerator appliances often have dispensers that obstruct access for larger containers and obscure machine-readable codes, making it difficult to integrate scanners effectively.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerator appliance design with a dispenser assembly and scanner assembly positioned behind an external wall, featuring angled lighting components and a scanner device to illuminate and read codes, allowing for improved code reading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a recess is provided in the dispenser assembly, then fluid and ice can be dispensed, but the recess prevents access or positioning of containers larger than the recess
Solution Approach 1:
The scanner assembly is positioned behind the external wall of the dispenser assembly, utilizing the depth dimension of the recess rather than occupying the front surface area. This allows the scanner to be integrated without reducing the accessible volume at the front of the dispenser, thereby maintaining compatibility with larger containers while enabling code scanning functionality.
2Measurement precision
If the machine-readable code is positioned relative to a scanner, then code reading is enabled, but the code may be obscured and at least partially unreadable
Solution Approach 1:
A lighting component is introduced as an intermediary element between the scanner and the code-bearing surface. The lighting component illuminates the recess and enhances the visibility of the machine-readable code, enabling the scanner to accurately detect and read the code even in the confined and potentially dimly lit recess environment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the scanner assembly is integrated to the dispenser assembly, then code scanning capability is added, but the scanner may be obscured by the dispenser structure
Solution Approach 1:
The scanner assembly is nested within the dispenser assembly by positioning it behind the external wall. This nested configuration allows the scanner to be integrated into the existing dispenser structure without protruding outward, maintaining the aesthetic appearance and compact form factor while still providing effective code scanning capability through the recess.
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 effective scanning of machine-readable codes by illuminating recesses and positioning scanner assemblies to enhance readability, while maintaining aesthetic appeal and preventing fluid contact.
Implementation Method 1
A lighting component may be included and positioned behind an external wall of the dispenser assembly. The lighting component may be configured to illuminate the recess.
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator appliance is provided, including a cabinet forming a refrigeration compartment, a freezer compartment, or both. A door is attached to the cabinet, the door configured to selectively allow entry to the refrigeration compartment, the freezer compartment, or both. A dispenser assembly is positioned at the door, the dispenser assembly including 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. The scanner assembly is positioned behind an external wall of the dispenser assembly.