Refrigerator Door Opening Control for Hands-Free Magnetic Seal Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigerators require users to apply significant force to open the door due to magnetic closure, and existing assistive devices often have issues with long leverages and the inability to operate with one hand, especially when holding objects.
Innovation Solution
A method for controlling a refrigerator that allows automatic door opening using a part of the body other than hands, employing a push rod driven by a motor, with sensors and detection systems to manage opening and closing speeds, and maintain door position without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a magnet is provided inside the gasket to increase adhesion with the cabinet, then the leaking of cool air is decreased, but a greater force is required to open the door
Solution Approach 1:
A door opening device is activated before the user opens the door to preliminarily separate the door from the cabinet body, overcoming the magnetic adhesion force of the gasket. The device includes a rod that pushes the door away from the cabinet when activated by a sensor detecting the user's approach, thereby reducing the force needed by the user to open the door while maintaining strong sealing when closed
2Force
If a door opening device with a long rod is used to push the door open from a position distant from the hinge shaft, then the door can be opened with less force, but the length of the rod becomes very long
Solution Approach 1:
The door opening device is segmented into multiple components: a rotating member mounted on the hinge shaft, a rod connected to the rotating member, and connection points on the door. The rod is positioned at a specific distance from the hinge shaft (between 1/4 to 3/4 of the door width) to provide sufficient leverage while maintaining a reasonable length. The segmented design allows the system to achieve effective door opening assistance without requiring an excessively long rod
3Force
If an operating part on the door handle is required to activate the door opening device, then the door can be opened with assistance, but it becomes impossible to operate when the user is holding objects in both hands
Solution Approach 1:
The door opening device operates automatically through a sensor that detects when a user approaches the refrigerator. The sensor triggers the door opening device to push the door open without requiring manual activation. This self-service mechanism allows users to open the door even when their hands are occupied with objects, eliminating the need for hands-free operation while maintaining assisted opening functionality
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
Enables effortless door operation with reduced manual force, allowing users to open the refrigerator while holding objects and enhancing reliability and safety by automating the door control process.
Implementation Method 1
employing a push rod driven by a motor
Implementation Method 2
a magnet is provided inside the gasket, and the gasket becomes in close contact with the cabinet formed of a steel material when the door is closed
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a refrigerator and control method for refrigerator and method for opening a refrigerator door. While a user is holding an object in both hands, a door may be automatically and additionally opened using another part of a body other than hands.