Refrigerator with an assisted door opener
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refrigerator door opening systems face challenges in ensuring consistent results over time due to settling and wear, requiring specialized technicians and often produce noise, with users seeking a solution for quiet and reliable operation.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerator appliance with a door opener system comprising a casing, push rod, and position sensor, controlled by a controller that directs the push rod to extend at varying speeds to maintain alignment and operate quietly, allowing for automatic door opening without direct user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a door opener system is implemented to assist door opening, then ease of operation is improved, but noise is generated and reliability deteriorates due to alignment issues over time
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a position sensor to detect the push rod's position and provides feedback to the controller. The controller adjusts the push rod extension speed based on this feedback, slowing down when approaching the door to ensure precise alignment and consistent operation over time, thereby maintaining reliability while providing ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The door opener system dynamically adjusts its operation by varying the push rod extension speed. The controller directs the push rod to extend at a first speed initially, then at a second slower speed when a threshold position is detected, allowing the system to adapt to changing conditions and maintain reliable performance.
2Ease of operation
If a door opener system is implemented to assist door opening, then ease of operation is improved, but noise is generated during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The door opener operates in distinct phases with different speeds. The controller directs the push rod to extend at a first speed for initial movement, then transitions to a second slower speed when approaching the door threshold. This periodic variation in operation reduces noise during the critical final approach while maintaining operational effectiveness.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If traditional door opening methods are used, then noise is minimized, but ease of operation deteriorates when hands are occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The door opener system provides self-service by automatically detecting when door opening is needed and executing the opening sequence without requiring user physical interaction with the door handle. The system serves itself by using sensors to detect conditions and autonomously controlling the push rod to open the door, thereby maintaining noise levels while improving ease of operation when hands are occupied.
4Device complexity
If door opener alignment is not maintained, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to settling and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The position sensor continuously monitors the push rod position and provides feedback to the controller. This feedback mechanism compensates for settling and wear by dynamically adjusting the push rod extension to maintain proper alignment with the door, ensuring consistent reliable operation over time without requiring complex mechanical alignment maintenance features.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of the push rod position using the position sensor before completing the door opening action. By detecting the threshold position in advance and adjusting speed accordingly, the system proactively maintains alignment and prevents issues that would arise from settling and wear, thereby maintaining reliability without increasing device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator appliance may include a cabinet, a door, a door opener, and a controller. The door opener may be attached to a cabinet and include a casing, a push rod, and a position sensor. The controller may be in operable communication with the door opener and configured to direct an opener operation. The opener operation may include receiving an opening prompt for the door opener, directing the push rod forward at a first extension speed in response to the received opening prompt, detecting the push rod at a first threshold between the retracted position and the extended position, and directing the push rod forward at a second extension speed in response to detecting the push rod at the first threshold, the second extension speed being less than the first extension speed.