Sensor system for a refrigerator dispenser
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United States of America Patent
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Apr 10, 2012
Grant Date -
Jul 3, 2008
app pub date -
Nov 8, 2007
filing date -
Dec 29, 2006
priority date (Note) -
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status (Latency Note)
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Abstract
A refrigerator includes a dispenser, a dispenser well, a control for regulating a dispensing operation, and a sensor system for automatically initiating and terminating the dispensing operation. The sensor system includes at least one capacitive-type sensor mounted in the dispenser well. The sensor is configured to detect the presence of a container in the dispenser well, an upper edge portion of the container and a level of liquid filling the container during the dispensing operation. The sensor signals the control to automatically cease the dispensing operation before the level of liquid reaches the upper edge portion of the container. The control is configured to differentiate between animate and inanimate objects, while preventing any release of water or ice when an animate object is detected.
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