refrigerator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigerators require panel replacement to change the outer appearance, which is costly and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerator with a door panel assembly that includes a panel and a lighting assembly, where the panel is made of opaque material with microscopic holes and an electrophoretic display (EPD) that allows light to pass through, enabling color and brightness adjustment without replacing the panel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If panels of various colors are installed on the front surface of the door to change the outer appearance, then the outer appearance can be expressed in various ways, but the panel must be removed every time to change the outer appearance and the replacement cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies an electrophoretic display panel that can dynamically change its appearance color and pattern without physical replacement. The display panel can be controlled to show different colors and designs electronically, transforming the static panel into a dynamic, reconfigurable surface that adapts to different aesthetic requirements while eliminating the need for manual panel removal and installation
Solution Approach 2:
The electrophoretic display panel changes its optical parameters (color, brightness, pattern) through electrical control rather than physical replacement. By altering the electrical state of the display material, the panel can transition between different visual appearances, effectively changing the refrigerator's outer appearance through parameter modification rather than component replacement
2Adaptability or versatility
If panels of various colors are installed on the front surface of the door to change the outer appearance, then the outer appearance can be expressed in various ways, but the replacement cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The electrophoretic display panel serves multiple functions: it acts as both the structural panel and the aesthetic display element. This single component can display multiple colors and patterns, replacing the need for multiple separate colored panels. The universal design consolidates what would otherwise require multiple physical panels into one multi-functional element, reducing manufacturing complexity and replacement costs
Solution Approach 2:
The electrophoretic display panel creates visual copies of different colors and patterns through its display capability rather than requiring physical copies of actual panels. The display material can replicate various appearances electronically, providing the effect of multiple different panels through a single physical component, thereby eliminating the cost of manufacturing and storing multiple panel variants
3Adaptability or versatility
If light is transmitted through microscopic holes formed in an opaque panel to change and display the color of the front surface of the door, then the color can be dynamically changed, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The panel incorporates microscopic holes or porous structure that allows light transmission. This porous design enables the electrophoretic display material to receive light from behind and transmit it through the holes, creating the color change effect. The porous structure is integrated into the panel design itself rather than being a separate component, maintaining relative simplicity while enabling the color transmission function
4Adaptability or versatility
If an electrophoretic display panel is used to change the outer appearance design without replacing the panel, then the color can be changed dynamically, but additional components and control systems are required
Solution Approach 1:
The electrophoretic display functionality is merged with the panel structure itself. The display panel is integrated into the door assembly as a unified component rather than being a separate add-on system. This merging reduces the number of discrete components and simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining the dynamic appearance change capability
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 refrigerator's outer appearance can be dynamically changed to desired colors and patterns using light, maintaining a metallic texture when off, and functioning as a display, all while preventing defects and reducing replacement costs.
Implementation Method 1
the panel is an electrophoretic panel
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of light sources disposed on the base and irradiating light toward the electrophoretic panel
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a refrigerator comprising: a cabinet in which a storage space is formed; and a door for opening and closing the cabinet. The door includes: a door body; and a panel assembly that is mounted to the door body and forms the front of the door. The panel assembly includes: a panel that forms the front of the door; and a lighting assembly that is provided behind the panel and emits light toward the panel.