Refrigerator Door Display Mount Assembly for Adjustable Viewing Angles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refrigerator display screens are fixed to the door structure, limiting their viewing angle based on the door position, which restricts user accessibility and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A mount assembly is integrated into the refrigerator door, allowing the display to move between a stored position flush with the door surface and an extended position, with adjustable joints enabling various orientations, including vertical, horizontal, and tilted positions, facilitated by a four-bar linkage and counterbalance mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the display is fixed to the door structure, then the display is securely mounted and maintains a seamless appearance, but the viewing angle is limited based on door position
Solution Approach 1:
The display mounting structure transitions from a fixed, static configuration to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. The mount assembly includes movable components that allow the display to be repositioned between a first position (flush with door surface) and a second position (extended outward), enabling adaptation to different viewing angles and door positions while maintaining secure mounting through engagement features.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into separate functional components: a mount assembly with movable display, engagement features for securing the display, and a cavity portion in the door. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component - the display can be adjusted without affecting the door structure, and the mounting mechanism can be designed specifically for adjustability while maintaining overall integration.
2Ease of operation
If the display is mounted recessed into the door face, then the display provides a seamless transition with the surrounding door surface, but the display cannot be positioned for optimal viewing angles
Solution Approach 1:
The display mounting system incorporates dynamic positioning capability, allowing the display to move between a recessed position (flush with door surface for seamless appearance) and an extended position (protruding outward for optimal viewing angles). This dynamic adjustment enables users to access and view the display from various angles while maintaining the aesthetic seamless appearance when not in use.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the display is fixed with the door structure, then the display maintains a consistent position, but the display viewing angle is restricted when the door is open
Solution Approach 1:
The mount assembly is designed as a dynamic positioning system with movable components that enable the display to be repositioned between multiple positions. The assembly includes engagement features that secure the display in place once positioned, providing both adjustability for different viewing orientations and stability when fixed in a desired position.
Solution Approach 2:
The mount assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the door structure and the display. It provides the functionality of both fixed mounting (through engagement features) and adjustable positioning (through movable components), mediating between the static door structure and the need for dynamic viewing angle adjustment.
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator including a cabinet body having a storage compartment and a door pivotably attached to the cabinet body and configured to open and at least partially close the storage compartment. The door includes a cavity portion defined in an outer side of the door. A mount assembly is connected to the cavity portion of the door and includes a display connected to the mount assembly. The mount assembly is configured to move the display between a stored position with the display disposed in the cavity portion and an extended position with the display positioned outward of the cavity portion. The mount assembly includes an articulation assembly connected to the mount assembly and configured to allow angling or rotating of the display relative to the refrigerator door.