Refrigerator Projection Display Using Diffractive Optical Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerators and freezers lack a flexible and innovative method for displaying both generic information and symbols, relying on conventional segment or LED displays, which are limited in design and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A projection arrangement using a light source and a diffractive optical element to project information or symbols onto a visible surface, integrating the diffractive optical element into an existing lamp's transparent cover, allowing for efficient beam shaping and utilization of light energy without additional components or cabling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional segment displays, LED displays, or LCD displays are used to display information, then information can be displayed on the refrigerator/freezer, but the design is limited and lacks flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical display systems (segment displays, LED displays, LCD displays) with an optical projection system using a light source and diffractive optical element. This substitution enables flexible projection of any information or symbols onto visible surfaces without the structural limitations of conventional displays, while actually reducing overall system complexity by eliminating complex display hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The projection arrangement serves multiple functions: it can display various types of information (temperature, time, device status), project different symbols (manufacturer logos, model names), and work on different visible surfaces of the device. This universal applicability provides high adaptability while using a simple, unified system rather than multiple specialized display components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If physical symbols or backlit panels are used to implement manufacturer lettering and logos, then symbols are visible, but the solution lacks innovation and flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical symbol attachment and backlit panel systems with an optical projection approach. Instead of physically manufacturing symbols onto the device surface or creating complex backlit panels, the system projects symbols using light and a diffractive optical element, greatly simplifying manufacturing while enabling flexible symbol display.
3Volume of moving object
If diffractive optical elements with micrometer or nanometer structure sizes are used, then the projection arrangement can be kept very flat and save space, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the diffractive optical element's microstructure with dimensions in the micrometer or nanometer range to achieve extreme miniaturization and flattening of the projection arrangement. This parameter change in structural dimensions enables the system to occupy minimal space while maintaining full projection functionality, accepting the corresponding manufacturing precision requirements.
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 flexible and visually appealing information or symbol projection onto the device's surfaces, enhancing usability and aesthetic appeal while maintaining insulation and space efficiency, particularly suitable for wine coolers with glass doors.
Implementation Method 1
a diffractive optical element for diffracting a light beam emitted by the light source
Implementation Method 2
which creates an interference pattern on an incident light beam, thus shaping the beam
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a refrigerator and/or freezer with a thermally insulated appliance body enclosing an interior cooled by means of a heat pump, wherein a dispensing opening is provided through which the interior is accessible from the outside of the appliance, wherein a door or a lid is provided to close the dispensing opening, wherein the appliance has a projection arrangement for displaying information or symbols on a visible surface, and wherein the projection arrangement comprises a light source and a diffractive optical element for diffracting a light beam emitted by the light source.