Refrigerating appliance lighting system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerating appliances lack an efficient lighting system that can dynamically adjust light characteristics such as color, color temperature, and dispersion based on predetermined conditions or user input.
Innovation Solution
A lighting system for refrigerating appliances that includes a light source optically coupled to an electrochromic device, with a controller module that selectively triggers energy sources to provide voltages that modify the opacity, color, color temperature, and dispersion of the light emitted by the electrochromic device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional lighting system is used in the refrigerating appliance, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the lighting characteristics (color, color temperature, dispersion) cannot be dynamically adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using an electrochromic device that can dynamically alter the optical parameters (color, color temperature, dispersion) of the light passing through it. By controlling the electrochromic device with different voltages, the lighting characteristics are adjusted without changing the physical structure of the lighting system, thus achieving adaptability while maintaining relative structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrochromic device serves multiple functions: it acts as both a light filter and a dynamic control element that can adjust color, color temperature, and dispersion characteristics. This multi-functionality allows a single component to provide various lighting conditions, reducing the need for multiple separate lighting systems and thereby managing device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an electrochromic device with multiple voltage control is implemented, then the lighting adaptability is improved, but the energy consumption and control complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamics by allowing real-time adjustment of lighting characteristics through variable voltage control of the electrochromic device. The lighting conditions can be dynamically changed based on user preferences or operational requirements, enabling customization while the electrochromic device maintains its state with minimal energy once adjusted.
Solution Approach 2:
Different voltage magnitudes applied to the electrochromic device produce different lighting outcomes (color, color temperature, dispersion). This parameter-based control allows the system to achieve multiple lighting states using a single energy source, potentially reducing overall energy consumption compared to using multiple separate light sources for different lighting conditions.
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 system enables dynamic adjustment of light characteristics within the refrigerating appliance, enhancing visibility and user experience by providing tailored lighting conditions based on door positions, temperature ranges, or user preferences.
Implementation Method 1
an electrochromic device, the light source arranged to selectively provide a first light to the electrochromic device, the electrochromic device selectively operable to emit a second light within the interior
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerating appliance includes a lighting system having a lighting device arranged to operatively illuminate the interior of the refrigerating appliance based on a predetermined condition. The lighting device includes a light source and an electrochromic device. The light source is arranged to selectively provide a first light to the electrochromic device. The electrochromic device is selectively operable to emit a second light within the interior. The color, color temperature, and diffusion of the second light can be indicative of a status of the refrigerating appliance and can be selectable by a user.