Switch module and refrigerator having the same

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing refrigerator dispensers for water or ice lack stability and efficient operation, often resulting in inconsistent performance and potential for user error due to the design of the switch mechanism.

Innovation Solution

A switch module with a push button and link assembly that allows for uniform movement and pressure application to operate the dispenser, featuring a restoring spring and buffering members to prevent collision and noise, along with light sources for aesthetic and operational enhancement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a simple switch mechanism is used for the dispenser, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability and stability of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveswitch mechanism complexityVSAvoiddispenser operation stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The push button is designed to move dynamically along a predetermined path rather than simple linear compression. The button includes a head portion and body portion that rotate and translate together, creating a dynamic switching mechanism that engages the actuating arm at multiple points along its path, thereby improving reliability without significantly increasing complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The switch mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the push button (with head and body portions), the actuating arm, the pivot arm, and the restoring spring. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall system reliability and controlled complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If a push button mechanism is added to operate the dispenser, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedispenser operation convenienceVSAvoidswitch module structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The push button serves multiple functions: it is pressed by the user to initiate dispensing, it rotates and translates to engage the actuating arm, it disengages from the actuating arm during restoration, and it provides tactile feedback to the user. This multi-functionality improves ease of operation while minimizing the need for additional separate components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The restoring spring automatically returns the push button to its initial position after dispensing, and the geometric design of the button and actuating arm ensures proper engagement and disengagement without requiring additional actuators or complex control mechanisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If the push button moves backwards by external force, then the ease of operation is improved, but the risk of collision and noise increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebutton actuation easeVSAvoidcollision and noise

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The restoring spring is positioned to engage the push button body portion before the button reaches the end of its backward movement. This pre-engagement cushions the button's movement, prevents hard collisions with the rear housing, and eliminates impact noise while maintaining easy user actuation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

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

The switch module ensures stable and uniform operation of the dispenser, preventing user error and enhancing the user experience by dispersing external force effectively and reducing noise and collision risks.

Implementation Method 1

a restoring spring to elastically support the push button forwards

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

first buffering members to elastically support the rear surface of the push button moved backwards

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic damping: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9664438B2Switch module and refrigerator having the same

Publication Date: 2017.05.30 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

Disclosed herein are a switch module and a refrigerator having the same. The refrigerator includes with a dispenser installed on a door and a switch module to operate the dispenser. The switch module includes a push button having a front surface thereof disposed in a vertical direction and moving forwards and backwards by external force, and a link assembly allowing an upper portion and a lower portion of the push button to simultaneously move forwards and backwards while maintaining the front surface of the push button to be in a vertical direction during the forward and backward movement of the push button.