refrigerator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigerators lack the ability to charge mobile devices without compromising their insulation performance and aesthetics, especially when placed in non-kitchen locations where appearance matching is crucial.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a wireless charging module within the refrigerator's design, utilizing a coil part for charging mobile devices placed on the cabinet cover, while maintaining thermal insulation and aesthetics, and providing a wired charging option for devices without wireless capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a wireless charging module is integrated into the refrigerator, then the ability to charge mobile devices is improved, but the insulation performance may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The refrigerator structure is divided into separate components: the inner casing forming the storage chamber, the middle plate surrounding the inner casing, and the module mounting casing fixed to the middle plate. This segmentation allows the wireless charging module to be isolated in a dedicated mounting casing, preventing thermal interference with the insulated storage chamber while maintaining charging functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The module mounting casing acts as an intermediary structure between the insulated inner casing and the wireless charging module. It provides a mounting platform for the charging module while being thermally isolated from the storage chamber through the middle plate, thus mediating between the conflicting requirements of charging capability and insulation performance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a wireless charging module is integrated into the refrigerator, then the charging function is added, but the appearance design may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless charging module is extracted as a separate, removable component mounted on the module mounting casing. The module can be inserted through an inserting opening and secured, allowing the charging function to be added without permanently altering the refrigerator's appearance. The module can be easily removed or replaced without affecting the overall design.
Solution Approach 2:
The module mounting casing with the inserting opening provides a universal mounting interface that can accommodate different wireless charging modules. This design allows the refrigerator to maintain a consistent appearance while enabling the charging function to be added, removed, or upgraded without modifying the refrigerator's external design.
3Shape
If the refrigerator is placed in non-kitchen locations to match furniture appearance, then aesthetic integration is improved, but access to charging functionality may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless charging module provides self-service charging capability on the refrigerator surface, allowing mobile devices to be charged simply by placing them on the cabinet cover above the module. This eliminates the need for users to access internal compartments or connect cables, making charging convenient regardless of the refrigerator's location in the home.
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 wireless charging of mobile devices without compromising the refrigerator's insulation performance or aesthetics, allowing for convenient charging in various locations, including non-traditional placements like living rooms or next to beds, while ensuring the refrigerator's appearance matches surrounding furniture.
Implementation Method 1
a thermal-insulating material disposed between the inner casing and the middle plate
Implementation Method 2
a wireless charging module mounted on the module mounting casing through the inserting opening, wherein the wireless charging module includes a coil part for wirelessly-charging a battery of a mobile device
Data Source
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AI summary
A refrigerator includes: an inner casing having a storage chamber defined therein; a middle plate surrounding an outer surface of the inner casing; a thermal-insulating material disposed between the inner casing and the middle plate; a module mounting casing fixed to the middle plate and having a top opening and an inserting opening; a cabinet cover to cover the top opening and to define a top appearance of the refrigerator; and a wireless charging module mounted on the module mounting casing through the inserting opening, wherein the wireless charging module includes an coil part for wirelessly-charging a battery of a mobile device placed on the cabinet cover.