Refrigerator Visual Indicia System for Temperature-Guided Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refrigerating appliances lack an efficient mechanism to guide users in storing items based on optimal temperature and humidity conditions within the appliance, leading to potential damage or spoilage due to improper storage.
Innovation Solution
A temperature sensing network and humidification system monitor and maintain temperature stratification and humidity levels, with a controller identifying a primary storage location for items based on input data and activating visual indicia, such as lighting patterns, to guide users to the optimal storage location.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If visual indicia are added to guide storage locations, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs visual indicia including color-coded labels and illuminated indicators on storage shelves to guide users to appropriate storage locations. Different colors indicate different temperature zones or storage recommendations, providing intuitive visual guidance without complex mechanical interfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The visual indicia system acts as an intermediary between the temperature sensing network and the user. Rather than requiring users to interpret raw temperature data, the system translates this information into simple visual cues that indicate optimal storage locations
2Reliability
If temperature sensing network and humidification system are implemented, then reliability of storage conditions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The refrigerating appliance is divided into multiple storage zones with independent temperature and humidity control. Each zone has its own sensing and control elements, allowing localized optimization of storage conditions without requiring complete system redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The temperature sensing network continuously monitors storage conditions and provides feedback to the control system. The humidification system responds to this feedback by adjusting humidity levels dynamically, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains reliable storage conditions
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple temperature levels are maintained in the cavity, then adaptability of storage options is improved, but loss of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the storage cavity are maintained at different temperature levels appropriate for specific types of items. This localized temperature differentiation allows versatile storage options while minimizing the energy required to maintain each zone, as only specific areas require active heating or cooling
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
Ensures items are stored at optimal conditions, reducing spoilage and damage by providing precise climate control and visual guidance for storage within the appliance.
Implementation Method 1
A temperature sensing network monitors a temperature stratification of the interior cavity. The temperature stratification includes a plurality of temperature levels that correspond to respective locations of the interior cavity.
Implementation Method 2
A visual indicia is disposed within the interior cavity and coupled to the controller. The visual indicia activates to identify the primary storage location of the item to be stored.
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerating appliance includes a cabinet that defines an interior cavity. A temperature sensing network monitors a temperature stratification of the interior cavity. The temperature stratification includes a plurality of temperature levels that correspond to respective locations of the interior cavity. A controller is configured to receive an input related to an item to be stored. The controller is further configured to compare the input with the temperature stratification. The controller is further configured to identify a primary storage location of the item to be stored based upon a comparison of the input and the plurality of temperature levels of the temperature stratification. A visual indicia is disposed within the interior cavity and coupled to the controller. The visual indicia activates to identify the primary storage location of the item to be stored.