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US20120127696A1 - Signature lighting system for appliance - Google Patents

Signature lighting system for appliance Download PDF

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Publication number
US20120127696A1
US20120127696A1 US12/951,645 US95164510A US2012127696A1 US 20120127696 A1 US20120127696 A1 US 20120127696A1 US 95164510 A US95164510 A US 95164510A US 2012127696 A1 US2012127696 A1 US 2012127696A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
light
carrier
light guide
housing
lighting system
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US12/951,645
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Andrew Z. Glovatsky
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Varroc Lighting Systems sro
Original Assignee
Visteon Global Technologies Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Visteon Global Technologies Inc filed Critical Visteon Global Technologies Inc
Priority to US12/951,645 priority Critical patent/US20120127696A1/en
Assigned to VISTEON GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. reassignment VISTEON GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: GLOVATSKY, ANDREW Z.
Priority to DE102011055279A priority patent/DE102011055279A1/de
Priority to JP2011255255A priority patent/JP2012114090A/ja
Publication of US20120127696A1 publication Critical patent/US20120127696A1/en
Assigned to VARROCCORP HOLDING BV, VARROC ENGINEERING PRIVATE LIMITED, VARROC LIGHTING SYSTEMS S.R.O. reassignment VARROCCORP HOLDING BV ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: VISTEON GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
Assigned to VARROC ENGINEERING PRIVATE LIMITED, VARROCCORP HOLDING BV, VARROC LIGHTING SYSTEMS S.R.O. reassignment VARROC ENGINEERING PRIVATE LIMITED AMENDMENT TO ASSIGNMENT Assignors: VISTEON GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
Assigned to VARROC LIGHTING SYSTEMS S.R.O. reassignment VARROC LIGHTING SYSTEMS S.R.O. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: VARROC ENGINEERING PRIVATE LIMITED, VARROCCORP HOLDING BV
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D27/00—Lighting arrangements
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F34/00—Details of control systems for washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F34/28—Arrangements for program selection, e.g. control panels therefor; Arrangements for indicating program parameters, e.g. the selected program or its progress
    • D06F34/32—Arrangements for program selection, e.g. control panels therefor; Arrangements for indicating program parameters, e.g. the selected program or its progress characterised by graphical features, e.g. touchscreens
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/0001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
    • G02B6/0005—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems the light guides being of the fibre type
    • G02B6/001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems the light guides being of the fibre type the light being emitted along at least a portion of the lateral surface of the fibre
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F2103/00—Parameters monitored or detected for the control of domestic laundry washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F2103/28—Air properties
    • D06F2103/32—Temperature
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F2103/00—Parameters monitored or detected for the control of domestic laundry washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F2103/68—Operation mode; Program phase
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F2105/00—Systems or parameters controlled or affected by the control systems of washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F2105/58—Indications or alarms to the control system or to the user
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S43/00—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights
    • F21S43/20—Signalling devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. brake lamps, direction indicator lights or reversing lights characterised by refractors, transparent cover plates, light guides or filters
    • F21S43/235—Light guides
    • F21S43/236—Light guides characterised by the shape of the light guide
    • F21S43/237—Light guides characterised by the shape of the light guide rod-shaped
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D23/00—General constructional features
    • F25D23/02—Doors; Covers
    • F25D23/028—Details
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D2327/00—Lighting arrangements not provided for in other groups of this subclass
    • F25D2327/001—Lighting arrangements on the external side of the refrigerator, freezer or cooling box

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to a lighting system.
  • the invention is directed to a signature lighting system for an appliance such as a refrigerator, for example.
  • Signature lighting systems are current used in automotive environments to create a distinct (i.e. signature) appearance to aide in defining a brand.
  • appliances e.g. refrigerators, washing machines, driers, ovens, ranges, dishwashers, and the like.
  • a conventional appliance e.g. oven, washing machine
  • a conventional lighting system for an appliance does not provide a dynamic light indicator for communicating to a user an environmental characteristic (e.g. time of day, ambient temperature) and/or an operational characteristic (e.g. oven temperature, or washer/dryer cycle status, etc.) of an appliance.
  • a signature lighting system for an appliance comprises: a carrier; a light guide disposed adjacent the carrier; a light source disposed adjacent the light guide and in electrical communication with a source of electrical energy to selectively energize the light source, wherein the light source emits light into the light guide; and a light housing received in the carrier and substantially enclosing the light source, wherein at least one of the light housing and the carrier militates against a relative motion between the light guide and the carrier.
  • a signature lighting system for an appliance comprises: a carrier; a light guide disposed adjacent the carrier; a circuit board disposed adjacent the light guide and in electrical communication with a source of electrical energy; a light source disposed adjacent the light guide and coupled to the circuit board to selectively energize the light source to emit light into the light guide; a light housing disposed adjacent the carrier and substantially enclosing the light source and at least a portion of the circuit board, wherein at least one of the light housing and the carrier militates against a relative motion between the light guide and the carrier; and a carrier housing having an aperture formed therein, wherein the carrier housing at least partially encloses the carrier and the light housing, and wherein at least a portion of a light exiting the light guide passes through the aperture formed in the carrier housing.
  • a signature lighting system for an appliance comprises: a carrier; a light guide disposed adjacent the carrier; a circuit board disposed adjacent the light guide and in electrical communication with a source of electrical energy; a light source disposed adjacent the light guide and coupled to the circuit board to selectively energize the light source to emit light into the light guide; a light housing disposed adjacent the carrier and substantially enclosing the light source and at least a portion of the circuit board, wherein at least one of the light housing and the carrier militates against a relative motion between the light guide and the carrier; and a controller in electrical communication with the light source to selectively energize the light source based upon an input signal.
  • FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of a signature lighting system integrated with an appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the signature lighting system of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 3 is a partially exploded perspective view of the portion of the signature lighting system shown in FIG. 2 , showing a light guide assembled with a carrier;
  • FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the portion of the signature lighting system shown in FIG. 2 , showing the portion assembled;
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of the lighting system of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 6 is a partially exploded perspective view of a signature lighting system according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 7 is a partially exploded perspective view of a signature lighting system according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 8 is a partially exploded perspective view of the signature lighting system shown in FIG. 7 , showing a light guide assembled with a light housing;
  • FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the signature lighting system shown in FIG. 7 , showing an optical element assembled with the carrier;
  • FIG. 10 is a right side cross-sectional view of the signature lighting system shown in FIG. 7 showing the carrier spaced from a carrier housing;
  • FIG. 11 is a right side cross-sectional view of the signature lighting system shown in FIG. 10 showing the carrier assembled with the carrier housing;
  • FIG. 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the signature lighting system shown in FIG. 11 taken across line 12 - 12 .
  • FIGS. 1-5 illustrate a signature lighting system 10 integrated with an appliance 12 (e.g. a refrigerator) according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the lighting system 10 is integrated with a handle 14 coupled to the appliance 12 .
  • the lighting system 10 can be integrated with any portion of the appliance 12 such as an outer housing of the appliance 12 , a door, an aesthetic feature, and the like.
  • the lighting system 10 can be integrated with any appliance such as a washing machine, a drier, an oven, a range, a dishwasher, and the like, for example.
  • the lighting system 10 includes a carrier 16 , a light guide 18 disposed adjacent the carrier 16 , a plurality of circuit boards 20 disposed adjacent the light guide 18 , a light source 22 disposed adjacent opposite ends of the light guide 18 , a plurality of light housings 24 disposed adjacent the carrier 16 to substantially enclose each of the light sources 22 , and a carrier housing 26 at least partially enclosing the carrier 16 and each of the light housings 24 .
  • the carrier 16 is typically formed from a semi-rigid material such as plastic and can be deformed from a resting shape such as from a substantially planar shape, for example. However, any materials having any rigidity can be used. As a non-limiting example, the carrier 16 has a substantially rectangular cuboid shape with a channel 28 formed in a first surface 30 thereof and a pair of spaced apart recessed portions 32 . It is understood that the carrier 16 can have any size and shape.
  • the channel 28 is typically centrally formed along a longitudinal axis A-A of the carrier 16 .
  • the channel 28 is configured to receive at least a portion of the light guide 18 to substantially secure the light guide 18 in a pre-determined position relative to the carrier 16 .
  • the light guide 18 is disposed in the channel 28 and is at least flush with the first surface 30 of the carrier 16 .
  • the light guide 18 is disposed in the channel 28 and is recessed from the first surface 30 of the carrier 16 .
  • the light guide 18 can have any position relative to the first surface 30 of the carrier 16 .
  • the channel 28 is generally “C” shaped, wherein an opening 34 into the central aperture of the “C” is smaller than a diameter of the light pipe 18 . Accordingly, the opening 34 of the channel 28 operates as a spring clamp to releaseably secure the light guide 18 in the channel 28 .
  • Each of the recessed portions 32 is configured to receive one of the light housings 24 to secure the light housing 24 (e.g. including the enclosed circuit board 20 and light source 22 ) in a pre-determined position relative to the carrier 16 and the light guide 18 .
  • the recessed portions 32 are apertures formed through the carrier 16 .
  • the recessed portions 32 can have any depth relative to the first surface 30 of the carrier 16 .
  • the light guide 18 is typically formed from a semi-rigid material such as plastic or glass. However, any material that allows light to be conducted therethrough by the principle of total internal reflection, can be used. As a non-limiting example, the light guide 18 is a light pipe having a substantially cylindrical shape. It is understood that the light guide 18 can have any size and shape. In certain embodiments, the light guide 18 includes a plurality of light extraction features 36 to direct light through a surface of the light guide 18 . It is understood that the light extraction features 36 can be disposed adjacent an outer surface 38 of the light guide 18 . It is further understood that the light extraction features 36 can be integrated with the light guide 18 and disposed within the light guide 18 .
  • the light extraction features 36 can include a ridge or a tooth formed in the light guide 18 to direct light rays through the outer surface 38 of the light guide 18 .
  • the light extraction features 36 include a reflective paint for directing light rays through the outer surface 38 of the light guide 18 . It is understood that the light extraction features 36 can include any means for re-directing light rays to exit the light guide 18 through any surface thereof. It is further understood that the light extraction features 36 can be formed in or on any portion of the light guide 18 . Any number of the light extraction features 36 (including one) can be arranged in any configuration to create a desired lighting pattern.
  • the circuit boards 20 each include an electrical connector 40 coupled to a means for electrical communication 42 (e.g. electrical wire or circuitry) to provide electrical interconnection between the circuit board 20 and a source of electrical energy 44 , as shown in FIG. 5 .
  • the circuit boards 20 are configured to receive at least one of the light sources 22 and selectively energize the at least one of the light sources 22 , as understood by one skilled in the art of circuit boards. It is understood that any means of electrical communication can be used to selectively energize the light sources 22 such as electrical wires having a protective grommet, for example.
  • Each of the light sources 22 is typically a side-emitting light emitting diode coupled to one of the circuit boards 20 to receive an electric current from the source of electrical energy 44 .
  • each of the light sources 22 is disposed adjacent an end of the light guide 18 to emit light into the light guide 18 . It is understood that any light source can be used. It is further understood that any number of the light sources 22 can be used.
  • an optical device (not shown) or element is disposed between at least one of the light sources 22 and the light guide 18 to direct light emitted from the at least one of the light sources 22 into the light guide 18 .
  • the optical device can be any means of directing light such as a lens, for example.
  • the optical device can be securely mounted to a component of the lighting system 10 such as the light housing 24 , for example.
  • Each of the light housings 24 is a split housing having a first portion 24 A and a second portion 24 B, and wherein the first portion 24 A is releaseably coupled to the second portion 24 B to substantially enclose at least one of the light sources 22 at the at least a portion of one of the circuit boards 20 .
  • the portions 24 A, 24 B of the light housing 24 cooperate to form a slot feature 46 configured to receive a portion of the light guide 18 to secure the light guide 18 in a pre-determined position relative to the at least one of the light sources 22 disposed in the light housing 24 .
  • the slot feature 46 defines a substantially cylindrical receiver slot configured to secure an end of the light guide 18 to the light housing 24 .
  • the light housing 24 and the slot feature 46 can have any size and shape.
  • the carrier housing 26 is a split housing having a first portion 26 A and a second portion 26 B, wherein the first portion 26 A is releaseably coupled to the second portion 26 B to substantially enclose the carrier 16 .
  • the first portion 26 A of the carrier housing 26 is defined by a removable cover configured to couple to the handle 14 of the appliance 12 , wherein a portion of the handle 14 defines the second portion 26 B of the carrier housing.
  • the first portion 26 A e.g. cover
  • the first portion 26 A includes an aperture 48 formed therethrough to allow light exiting the light guide 18 to pass through the carrier housing 26 .
  • an optical element 50 is disposed in the aperture 48 to direct the light passing through the aperture 48 in a pre-determined lighting pattern. It is understood that any optical feature such as a lens can be used. It is further understood that the carrier housing 26 and the associated aperture 48 can have any size and shape.
  • the carrier housing 26 includes a cavity 52 formed therein to enclose the means for electrical communication 42 (e.g. wiring, electrical circuitry, and the like) for providing electrical interconnection between the circuit board 20 and the source of electrical energy 44 to selectively supply an electric current to the light source 22 .
  • the means for electrical communication 42 e.g. wiring, electrical circuitry, and the like
  • the lighting system 10 further includes a sensor 54 in signal communication with a controller 56 , wherein the sensor 54 transmits an input signal to the controller 56 to selectively energize the light sources 22 in response to a pre-determined sensed characteristic.
  • the senor 54 is a motion sensor which senses a movement of a user within a field of sensing of the sensor 54 and to transmit a sensor signal (e.g. input signal) to the controller 56 .
  • the sensor 54 can be configured to sense any environmental characteristic on the appliance 12 such as an ambient light and an ambient temperature, for example.
  • the sensor 54 senses an operational characteristic of the appliance 12 such as an internal temperature or operating status.
  • the appliance 12 is a washing machine and the sensor 54 is configured to sense a stage (e.g. rinse, spin, finished) in a washing cycle, wherein the light sources 22 are selectively energized to emit a pre-defined lighting pattern to represent the stage in the washing cycle.
  • the appliance 12 is an oven and the sensor 54 is configured to sense an internal temperature of the oven, wherein the light sources 22 are selectively energized to emit a dynamic intensity (e.g. higher intensity for higher temperature) to represent the internal temperature sensed.
  • the controller 56 may be any device or system adapted to receive an input signal (e.g. the sensor signal), analyze the input signal, and configure the light sources 22 (e.g. via the circuit board 20 ) in response to the analysis of the input signal.
  • the controller 56 is a micro-computer.
  • the controller 56 receives the input signal from at least one of the sensors 54 and a user-provided input via a user interface (not shown).
  • the controller 56 analyzes the input signal based upon an instruction set 58 .
  • the instruction set 58 which may be embodied within any computer readable medium, includes processor executable instructions for configuring the controller 56 to perform a variety of tasks.
  • the controller 56 may execute a variety of functions such as controlling the operation of the sensor 54 and the light sources 22 , for example. It is understood that various algorithms and software can be used to analyze the input signal received from the sensor 54 .
  • the controller 56 includes a storage device 60 .
  • the storage device 60 may be a single storage device or may be multiple storage devices.
  • the storage device 60 may be a solid state storage system, a magnetic storage system, an optical storage system, or any other suitable storage system or device. It is understood that the storage device 60 may be adapted to store the instruction set 58 . Other data and information may be stored and cataloged in the storage device 60 such as the data collected by the sensor 54 , for example.
  • the controller 56 may further include a programmable component 62 .
  • the programmable component 62 may be in communication with any other component of the lighting system 10 such as the sensor 54 and the light sources 22 , for example.
  • the programmable component 62 is adapted to manage and control processing functions of the controller 56 .
  • the programmable component 62 is adapted to modify the instruction set 58 and control the analysis of the signals and information received by the controller 56 .
  • the programmable component 62 may be adapted to manage and control the sensor 54 .
  • the programmable component 62 may be adapted to store data and information on the storage device 60 , and retrieve data and information from the storage device 60 .
  • each of the circuit boards 20 (including at least one of the light sources 22 ) is disposed in one of the light housings 24 .
  • One of the light housings 24 is disposed at each end of the light guide 18 .
  • a portion of the light guide 18 is enclosed by each of the light housings 24 (e.g. using slot feature 46 ).
  • the light guide 18 and the light housings 24 are disposed adjacent the carrier 16 .
  • the channel 28 formed in the carrier 16 receives the light guide 18 and the recessed portions 32 formed in the carrier 16 each receive one of the light housings 24 .
  • the carrier 16 is then coupled to the second portion 26 B of the carrier housing 26 and the first portion 26 A of the carrier housing 26 is coupled to the second portion 26 B of the carrier housing 26 to substantially enclose the carrier 16 .
  • a selective energizing of the light sources 22 illuminates the light guide 18 , wherein the light extraction features 36 direct light from the light guide 18 and through the aperture 48 formed in the first portion 26 A of the carrier housing 26 .
  • the light sources 22 can be selectively energized by the controller 56 or another control device (not shown).
  • the controller 56 selectively energizes the light sources 22 in response to the input signal received from the sensor 54 .
  • the light emitted from the light sources 22 can represent an environmental or operational characteristic of the appliance 12 .
  • FIG. 6 illustrates a signature lighting system 10 ′ according to another embodiment of the present invention similar to the signature lighting system 10 , except as described herein below.
  • the lighting system 10 ′ is integrated with the handle 14 coupled to the appliance 12 .
  • the lighting system 10 ′ can be integrated with any portion of the appliance 12 such as an outer housing of the appliance, a door, an aesthetic feature, and the like.
  • the lighting system 10 ′ can be integrated with any appliance such as a washing machine, a drier, an oven, a range, a dishwasher, and the like, for example.
  • the lighting system 10 ′ includes a carrier 16 ′ coupled to the second portion 26 B (e.g. handle 14 ) of the carrier housing 26 .
  • the carrier 16 ′ includes a plurality of spaced apart clips 64 or snap features configured to receive the light guide 18 .
  • each the clips 64 is generally “C” shaped, wherein an opening 66 into a central aperture of the “C” is smaller than a diameter of the light pipe 18 . Accordingly, the opening 66 of each of the clips 64 operates as a spring clamp to releaseably secure the light guide 18 in the second portion 26 b of the carrier housing 26 .
  • each of the circuit boards 20 (including at least one of the light sources 22 ) is disposed in one of the light housings 24 .
  • Each of the light housings 24 is disposed adjacent (e.g. coupled to) the second portion 26 B of the carrier housing 26 .
  • a portion of the light guide 18 is inserted into the slot feature 46 of each of the light housings 24 .
  • a portion of the light guide 18 not enclosed by the light housings 24 is then coupled to each of the clips 64 of the carrier 16 ′.
  • the light guide 18 is coupled to the clips 64 of the carrier 16 ′ and then the light housings 24 are disposed on opposite ends of the light guide 18 . It is understood that other assembly procedures can be used.
  • the first portion 26 A of the carrier housing 26 is then coupled to the second portion 26 B of the carrier housing 26 to substantially enclose the light guide 18 and the carrier 16 ′.
  • a selective energizing of the light sources 22 illuminates the light guide 18 , wherein the light extraction features 36 direct light from the light guide 18 and through the aperture 48 formed in the first portion 26 A of the carrier housing 26 .
  • the light sources 22 can be selectively energized by the controller 56 or any control device (not shown).
  • FIGS. 7-12 illustrate a signature lighting system 110 according to another embodiment of the present invention similar to the signature lighting system 10 , except as described herein below.
  • the lighting system 110 includes a carrier 116 , a light guide 118 disposed adjacent the carrier 116 , a plurality of circuit board 120 disposed adjacent the light guide 118 , a light source 122 disposed adjacent opposite ends of the light guide 118 , a plurality of light housings 124 disposed adjacent the carrier 116 , and a carrier housing 126 at least partially enclosing the carrier 116 and each of the light housings 124 .
  • the carrier 116 is typically formed from a semi-rigid material such as plastic and can be deformed from a resting shape. However, any materials having any rigidity can be used. As a non-limiting the carrier 116 has a substantially rectangular cuboid shape with a channel 128 formed in a first surface 130 thereof and a pair of spaced apart recessed portions 132 . It is understood that the carrier 116 can have any size and shape.
  • the channel 128 is typically centrally formed along a longitudinal axis B-B of the carrier 116 .
  • the channel 128 is configured to receive at least a portion of the light guide 118 to substantially secure the light guide 118 in a pre-determined position relative to the carrier 116 .
  • the light guide 118 is disposed in the channel 128 and is at least flush with the first surface 130 of the carrier 116 .
  • the light guide 118 is disposed in the channel 128 and is recessed from the first surface 130 of the carrier 116 .
  • the channel 128 is generally “C” shaped, wherein an opening 134 of a central aperture of the “C” is smaller than a diameter of the light pipe 118 . Accordingly, the opening 134 of the channel 128 operates as a spring clamp to releaseably secure the light guide 118 in the channel 128 .
  • Each of the recessed portions 132 is configured to receive one of the light housings 124 to secure the light housing 124 (e.g. including the enclosed circuit board 120 and light source 122 ) in a pre-determined position relative to the carrier 116 and the light guide 118 .
  • the recessed portions 132 are apertures formed through the carrier 116 .
  • the recessed portions 132 can have any depth relative to the first surface 130 of the carrier 116 .
  • the light guide 118 is typically formed from a semi-rigid material such as plastic or glass. However, any material that allows light to be conducted therethrough by the principle of total internal reflection, can be used. As a non-limiting example, the light guide 118 is a light pipe having a substantially cylindrical shape. It is understood that the light guide 118 can have any size and shape. In certain embodiments, the light guide 118 includes a plurality of light extraction features 136 to direct light through a surface of the light guide 118 . It is understood that the light extraction features 136 can be disposed adjacent an outer surface 138 of the light guide 118 . It is further understood that the light extraction features 136 can be integrated with the light guide 118 and disposed within the light guide 118 .
  • the light extraction features 136 can include a ridge or a tooth formed in the light guide 118 to direct light rays through the outer surface 138 of the light guide 118 .
  • the light extraction features 136 include a reflective paint for directing light rays through the outer surface 138 of the light guide 118 . It is understood that the light extraction features 136 can include any means for re-directing light rays to exit the light guide 118 through any surface thereof. It is further understood that the light extraction features 136 can be formed in or on any portion of the light guide 118 . Any number of the light extraction features 138 can be arranged in any configuration to create a desired lighting pattern.
  • the circuit boards 120 each include an electrical connector 140 coupled to a means for electrical communication 142 (e.g. electrical wire or circuitry) to provide electrical interconnection between the circuit board 120 and a source of electrical energy 144 .
  • the circuit boards 120 are configured to receive at least one of the light sources 122 and selectively energize the at least one of the light sources 122 , as understood by one skilled in the art of circuit boards. It is understood that any means of electrical communication can be used to selectively energize the light sources 122 such as electrical wires having a protective grommet, for example.
  • Each of the light sources 122 is typically a side-emitting light emitting diode coupled to one of the circuit boards 120 to receive an electric current from the source of electrical energy 144 .
  • each of the light sources 122 is disposed adjacent an end of the light guide 118 to emit light into the light guide 118 . It is understood that any light source can be used. It is further understood that any number of the light sources 122 can be used.
  • an optical element 146 or device is disposed adjacent at least a portion of the outer surface 138 of the light guide 118 to direct light exiting the light guide 118 in a pre-determined lighting pattern.
  • the optical element 146 can be any means of directing light such as a lens, for example.
  • the optical element 146 can be securely mounted to a component of the lighting system 110 such as the carrier housing 126 , for example.
  • the optical element 146 can have any shape and size to direct light in any pattern.
  • Each of the light housings 124 is a split housing having a first portion 124 A and a second portion 124 B, and wherein the first portion 124 A is releaseably coupled to the second portion 124 B to substantially enclose at least one of the light sources 122 at the at least a portion of one of the circuit boards 120 .
  • the portions 124 A, 124 B of the light housing 124 cooperate to form a slot feature 148 configured to receive a portion of the light guide 118 to secure the light guide 118 in a pre-determined position relative to the at least one of the light sources 122 disposed in the light housing 124 .
  • the slot feature 148 defines a substantially cylindrical receiver slot configured to secure an end of the light guide 118 to the light housing 124 .
  • the light housing 124 and the slot feature 148 can have any size and shape.
  • the carrier housing 126 can have a curved shape or other non-planar or irregular shape.
  • the carrier housing 126 is defined by a curved handle coupled to an appliance (not shown).
  • the lighting system 110 can be integrated with any portion of the appliance such as an outer housing of the appliance, a door, an aesthetic feature, and the like. It is further understood that the lighting system 110 can be integrated with any appliance such as a washing machine, a drier, an oven, a range, a dishwasher, and the like, for example.
  • carrier housing 126 (e.g. handle 14 ) includes an aperture 150 formed therethrough to allow light exiting the light guide 118 to pass through the carrier housing 126 .
  • the optical element 146 is disposed in the aperture 150 to direct the light passing through the aperture 150 in a pre-determined lighting pattern. It is understood that any optical element such as a lens can be used, for example. It is further understood that the carrier housing 126 and the associated aperture 150 can have any size and shape. Additionally, any number of the apertures 150 can be sued to receive any number of the optical elements 146 of any size and shape.
  • a retention device 152 cooperates with the carrier housing 126 to militate against any relative movement between the carrier and the carrier housing 126 .
  • the retention device 152 protrudes radially inwardly from an inner surface of the carrier housing 126 . Accordingly, when the carrier 116 is disposed in the carrier housing 126 , the retention device 152 engages a portion of the carrier 116 to limit a motion of the carrier 116 relative to the carrier housing 126 .
  • a protuberance 154 is formed on an inner surface of the carrier housing 126 to engage the carrier 116 and urge the optical element 146 into the aperture 150 formed in the carrier housing 126 . It is understood that the protuberance 154 can be formed as an integral portion of the carrier housing 126 and aligned with at least a portion of the aperture 150 . It is further understood that the protuberance 154 can be formed as an adjustable element such as a threaded member (not shown), wherein the threaded member is adjusted to exert a force on the carrier 116 , and thereby urge the optical element 146 into the aperture 150 . Other devices and structures can be used to adjust a position of the carrier 116 relative to the carrier housing 126 .
  • each of the circuit boards 120 (including at least one of the light sources 122 ) is disposed in one of the light housings 124 .
  • One of the light housings 124 is disposed at each end of the light guide 118 .
  • a portion of the light guide 118 is enclosed by each of the light housings 124 (e.g. using slot feature 148 ).
  • the light guide 118 and the light housings 124 are disposed adjacent the carrier 116 .
  • the channel 128 formed in the carrier 116 receives the light guide 118 and the recessed portions 132 formed in the carrier 116 each receive one of the light housings 124 .
  • the carrier 116 is then guided into the carrier housing 126 to substantially enclose the carrier 116 .
  • the protuberance 154 guides the optical element 146 into the aperture 150 formed in the carrier housing 126 as the carrier 116 is guided through the carrier housing 126 .
  • a selective energizing of the light sources 122 illuminates the light guide 118 , wherein the light extraction features 136 direct light from the light guide 118 and through the aperture 150 formed in the carrier housing 126 .
  • the signature lighting system 10 , 10 ′, 110 of the present invention provides selective lighting patterns throughout the appliance 12 while minimizing electrical power consumption.
  • the signature lighting system 10 , 10 ′, 110 also provides a dynamic light indicator for communicating to a user an environmental characteristic (e.g. time of day, ambient temperature) and/or an operational characteristic (e.g. oven temperature, or washer/dryer cycle status, etc.) of the appliance 12 .
  • an environmental characteristic e.g. time of day, ambient temperature
  • an operational characteristic e.g. oven temperature, or washer/dryer cycle status, etc.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Arrangement Of Elements, Cooling, Sealing, Or The Like Of Lighting Devices (AREA)
  • Non-Portable Lighting Devices Or Systems Thereof (AREA)
  • Planar Illumination Modules (AREA)
  • Circuit Arrangement For Electric Light Sources In General (AREA)
  • Fastening Of Light Sources Or Lamp Holders (AREA)
US12/951,645 2010-11-22 2010-11-22 Signature lighting system for appliance Abandoned US20120127696A1 (en)

Priority Applications (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US12/951,645 US20120127696A1 (en) 2010-11-22 2010-11-22 Signature lighting system for appliance
DE102011055279A DE102011055279A1 (de) 2010-11-22 2011-11-11 Signaturbeleuchtungssystem für Haushaltsgeräte
JP2011255255A JP2012114090A (ja) 2010-11-22 2011-11-22 家庭用電化製品用の特徴的な照明システム

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US12/951,645 US20120127696A1 (en) 2010-11-22 2010-11-22 Signature lighting system for appliance

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20120127696A1 true US20120127696A1 (en) 2012-05-24

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ID=46021453

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US12/951,645 Abandoned US20120127696A1 (en) 2010-11-22 2010-11-22 Signature lighting system for appliance

Country Status (3)

Country Link
US (1) US20120127696A1 (ja)
JP (1) JP2012114090A (ja)
DE (1) DE102011055279A1 (ja)

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US20170307286A1 (en) * 2014-10-30 2017-10-26 Electraled, Inc. Led lighting array system for illuminating a display case
US10837650B2 (en) * 2016-05-19 2020-11-17 Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag Domestic appliance and door for a domestic appliance
CN113330175A (zh) * 2019-02-01 2021-08-31 Bsh家用电器有限公司 具有特定光导向的家用电器的门的把手以及门和家用电器
US11419434B1 (en) * 2018-10-03 2022-08-23 Anthony, Inc. Display case door with door handle camera
CN115045086A (zh) * 2022-05-31 2022-09-13 无锡小天鹅电器有限公司 显示安装结构及衣物处理设备
US11650628B1 (en) 2018-10-03 2023-05-16 Anthony, Inc. Display case door with touch screen
EP4336097A3 (en) * 2016-06-03 2024-05-15 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Oven
EP4317870A4 (en) * 2021-03-29 2024-09-04 Qingdao Haier Refrigerator Co., Ltd. DOOR FOR REFRIGERATOR AND ASSOCIATED REFRIGERATOR

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EP4520861A4 (en) * 2022-05-31 2025-07-02 Wuxi Little Swan Electric Co Ltd DISPLAY MOUNTING STRUCTURE AND CLOTHING PROCESSING EQUIPMENT

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US20170307286A1 (en) * 2014-10-30 2017-10-26 Electraled, Inc. Led lighting array system for illuminating a display case
US10139156B2 (en) * 2014-10-30 2018-11-27 Electraled, Inc. LED lighting array system for illuminating a display case
US11029084B2 (en) 2014-10-30 2021-06-08 Electraled, Inc. LED lighting array system for illuminating a display case
WO2017032515A1 (en) * 2015-08-27 2017-03-02 Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag Door handle for a door of a domestic appliance
EP3136002A1 (en) * 2015-08-27 2017-03-01 Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag Door handle for a door of a domestic appliance
US10837650B2 (en) * 2016-05-19 2020-11-17 Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag Domestic appliance and door for a domestic appliance
EP4336097A3 (en) * 2016-06-03 2024-05-15 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Oven
US11650628B1 (en) 2018-10-03 2023-05-16 Anthony, Inc. Display case door with touch screen
US11419434B1 (en) * 2018-10-03 2022-08-23 Anthony, Inc. Display case door with door handle camera
CN113330175A (zh) * 2019-02-01 2021-08-31 Bsh家用电器有限公司 具有特定光导向的家用电器的门的把手以及门和家用电器
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US12117177B2 (en) * 2019-02-01 2024-10-15 BSH Hausgeräte GmbH Handle for a door of a domestic appliance with specific light guidance, and door and domestic appliance
EP4317870A4 (en) * 2021-03-29 2024-09-04 Qingdao Haier Refrigerator Co., Ltd. DOOR FOR REFRIGERATOR AND ASSOCIATED REFRIGERATOR
AU2021438150B2 (en) * 2021-03-29 2025-01-02 Haier Smart Home Co., Ltd. Door for refrigerator and refrigerator
CN115045086A (zh) * 2022-05-31 2022-09-13 无锡小天鹅电器有限公司 显示安装结构及衣物处理设备

Also Published As

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JP2012114090A (ja) 2012-06-14

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