Refrigerator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerator knock sensing devices are prone to sensing errors due to direct exposure to cold air and humidity, leading to reduced accuracy and difficulty in maintenance and replacement.
Innovation Solution
The design includes a sensor module installed on a door frame, spaced apart from the front panel, with a mounting portion that accommodates the sensor PCB and element, allowing for improved insulation and easier access for maintenance, while the sensor element senses vibrations through a protrusion rib and air transmission, minimizing cold air influence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the knock sensing device is in contact with the rear surface of the front panel to sense sound waves, then the sensing function is achieved, but the sensing accuracy deteriorates due to direct exposure to cold air and humidity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an insulating panel as an intermediary between the front panel and the knock sensing device. The insulating panel transmits vibration from the front panel to the sensing device while protecting it from direct exposure to cold air and humidity. This mediator allows the sensing function to work effectively while eliminating the harmful environmental influences that caused sensing errors.
2Reliability
If the sensor module is installed inside the insulating space close to the front panel, then the knock sensing function is achieved, but the service and replacement of the sensor module becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the door structure into distinct functional zones: the insulating space for thermal insulation, and a separately accessible sensor module installation area. The sensor module is mounted on the door frame or door liner outside the insulating space, allowing it to be serviced independently without disassembling insulation components. This segmentation enables easy access for maintenance while preserving the knock sensing function.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the sensor module is spaced apart from the front panel, then the impact of cold air is reduced, but the transmission of knock vibration to the sensor may be weakened
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating panel serves as a vibration-transmitting intermediary that bridges the gap between the front panel and the sensor module. Even though the sensor is spaced apart from the front panel to avoid cold air exposure, the insulating panel conducts vibrations effectively from the front panel through the door structure to the sensor, maintaining sensing accuracy while providing thermal protection.
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
This configuration enhances the accuracy of knock signal detection and facilitates easy service and replacement of the sensor module, reducing the impact of cold air on sensing performance.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor module installed on the door frame to sense a knock input applied to the front panel
Implementation Method 2
a microphone module that is in contact with the rear surface of the front panel to receive a sound wave generated by vibration during a knock transmitted through the front panel
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator includes a cabinet having a storage space and a door to open and close the storage space. The door includes a panel assembly including a front panel, a door frame connected to the panel assembly, a door liner connected to the panel assembly and the door frame and to define an insulating space, in which an insulator is disposed, together with the panel assembly and the door frame, and a sensor module installed on the door frame to sense a knock input applied to the front panel. The door frame includes a front wall that is in contact with the front panel and a rear wall spaced apart from the front wall and configured to define an accommodation space, in which the sensor module is accommodated, together with the front wall.