A system for at least one storage apparatus

Abstract

A system (100) for at least one storage apparatus, comprising one or more components distributed across the storage apparatus with each component comprising one or more sensors configured to monitor an internal environment of the storage apparatus, an individual in proximity with to the storage apparatus, or a combination thereof. The components operate based on sensor data of their sensors or sensor data of other components, to manipulate other corresponding components, the internal environment of the storage apparatus, or a combination thereof for maintaining a condition of items in the storage apparatus. A storage apparatus comprising the system (100) is further disclosed.

Description

[0001]

[0002] A SYSTEM FOR AT LEAST ONE STORAGE APPARATUS

[0003] FIELD OF INVENTION

[0004] The present invention relates to storage apparatus. In particular, the present invention relates to a system for at least one storage apparatus that maintains a condition of the items stored therein. More specifically, the present invention is a system for wardrobes, which, among other things, improves the air quality therein.

[0005] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Some residents reported having health problems after moving into their newly furnished homes. After some investigation, it was discovered that their health issues are directly related to the adhesives that furniture makers use in the production of their furniture. These adhesives are known to emit harmful chemicals into their surroundings over time. These chemicals include Total Volatile Oiganic Compounds (TVOC) such as formaldehyde, ethylene glycol, and methylene chloride. A room containing furniture that are assembled with the adhesives may accumulate the TVOC due to the confinement of the air within the room. When the user enters the room, they may be directly exposed to the accumulated TVOC, which may lead to respiratory issues or allergic reactions. Prolonged exposure to TVOC may result in damage to kidneys, liver, nervous system, as well as causing cancer.

[0007] As technology approaches the era of the Internet of Things, many conventional furniture receive upgrades to better perform their functions. A wardrobe provides a space to store clothing items that are not currently in use. Depending on the lifestyle of the user, there may be certain clothing items that are stored in the wardrobe for an extended amount of time, causing the condition of the clothing items to deteriorate. In serious cases, the item may also suffer irreparable damage.

[0008]

[0009] A few technologies are developed to provide conveniences and functionality to users of wardrobes. One such technology is found in Korean patent KR101751777B1. In which the document discloses a multi-function smart wardrobe comprising an air-cleaning dehumidification apparatus, a sterilizing steamer, an ultraviolet sterilizing lamp, and an aroma dispenser. The document further discloses a smart touchpad, a fingerprint recognizer, a black box video camera, a theft protector, a microphone, and a speaker for safety purposes. The features of the smart wardrobe are remotely controlled by to user using the smart touchpad.

[0010] Another technology is found in Chinese patent CN110558739B. The patent discloses a wardrobe system that dries, folds and stores clothing items automatically. The patent discloses different compartments designated for different functions, in which the clothing items are transported to the respective compartments for their respective processes. The patent further discloses a processor to manage the automation and integration of the wardrobe’s functions.

[0011] The prior art cited discloses entire wardrobes custom built as a whole to provide the functions and conveniences to the user. These lack modularity, limiting the user's ability to include some functions and omit others according to their preferences.. There may also be situations where a user needs to replace an entire wardrobe when just one part of the wardrobe is broken or faulty, just because the production of the spare part is discontinued. As a result, the technology appears to be reserved for a population with a higher level of wealth.

[0012] Therefore, there is a need for such wardrobe systems to be broken down into attachments for the user to customize their wardrobe without having to suffer a financial burden. At the same time, the user needs to be protected from the unseen dangers of TVOC.

[0013]

[0014] SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0015] The main object of the invention is to provide a system attached to a storage apparatus that comprises a control unit, at least one sensor, and at least one peripheral to monitor and manipulate the internal environment of the storage apparatus for maintaining the condition of items stored in the storage apparatus.

[0016] The system comprises one or more components distributed across the storage apparatus, with each component comprising one or more sensors configured to monitor an internal environment of the storage apparatus, an individual in proximity to the storage apparatus, or any combination thereof, wherein the components operate based on sensor data of their sensors or sensor data of other components, to manipulate other corresponding components, the internal environment of the storage apparatus, or a combination thereof.

[0017] Preferably, the system further comprises one or more external devices that are external to the storage apparatus and in communication with the components, wherein the components are configured to provide the sensor data to the external device; and the components are configured to receive instructions from the external device for operating based on the instructions, or a combination thereof.

[0018] Preferably, the components comprise one or more heating modules configured to increase a temperature within the storage apparatus.

[0019] Preferably, the components comprise one or more surfaces coated with a photocatalytic material, to produce free radicals in the presence of light to remove volatile compounds from the storage apparatus.

[0020]

[0021] Preferably, the components comprise one or more extender units to reposition a positioning of the components, or items in the storage apparatus.

[0022] Preferably, the components comprise a camera that is configured to record facial recognition data of the individual in proximity to the storage apparatus, determine an identity of the recorded individual in proximity to the storage apparatus from the facial recognition data, and unlock any locked component in the system in the event that the recorded individual in proximity to the storage apparatus is a registered user, or record a recording of the individual in the proximity of the storage apparatus and sends an alert message and the recording to the external device.

[0023] Preferably, the components include a weighing unit configured to measure at least one user parameter.

[0024] Preferably, the components further comprise an ultrasonic transducer distributed across the storage apparatus configured to emit sound waves in the range of 20kHz to 100kHz to repel insects.

[0025] Preferably, the sensors are further configured to detect biometrics of the individual in proximity to the storage apparatus and unlock the corresponding components or storage items in the storage apparatus.

[0026] The present invention further discloses a storage apparatus comprising the system.

[0027] One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention is well adapted to carry out the objects and obtain the ends and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent therein. The embodiment described herein is not intended as limitation on the scope of the invention.

[0028]

[0029] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] For the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the invention, there is illustrated in the accompanying drawings the preferred embodiments from an inspection of which when considered in connection with the following description, the invention, its construction and operation and many of its advantages would be readily understood and appreciated.

[0031] Fig. 1 is an illustration depicting a perspective view of the system of the present invention according to one example embodiment.

[0032] Fig.2 is an illustration depicting a perspective view of a central unit within the system, according to one example embodiment.

[0033] Fig. 3 is a block diagram depicting the internal features of the central unit.

[0034] Fig.4 is an illustration depicting the front view of an environment control unit mounted onto a connector unit, within the system, according to one example embodiment.

[0035] Fig. 5 is an illustration depicting the expanded view of the environment control unit.

[0036] Fig. 6 is an illustration depicting an exploded view of the connector unit.

[0037] Fig. 7 is an illustration depicting the expanded view of the connection between a bar unit, the connector unit, and a vertical surface within the system, according to one example embodiment.

[0038] Fig. 8 is an illustration depicting a cross-section view of the bar unit.

[0039]

[0040] Fig. 9 is an illustration depicting an extender unit within the system, according to one example embodiment.

[0041] Fig. 10 is an illustration depicting the extender unit with a storage box attached thereon.

[0042] Fig. 11 is an illustration depicting a perspective view of a drawer assembly within the system, according to one example embodiment.

[0043] Fig. 12 is an illustration depicting a single drawer unit of the drawer assembly.

[0044] Fig. 13 is an illustration depicting a perspective view of the weighing unit within the system, according to one example embodiment.

[0045] Fig. 14 is an illustration depicting a perspective view of the weighing unit with its top portion elevated within the system, according to one example embodiment.

[0046] Fig. 15 is an illustration depicting a perspective view of a hanger unit within the system, according to one example embodiment.

[0047] Fig. 16 is an illustration depicting the front view of the hanger unit.

[0048] Fig. 17 is an illustration depicting an expanded view of a dryer unit within the system, according to one example embodiment.

[0049] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0050] The present invention is a system for a storage apparatus, to monitor and manipulate the internal environment therein to maintain a condition of stored items therein. By way of example, the storage apparatus may be a wardrobe, drawer, cupboard, closet, or the

[0051]

[0052] like. The storage apparatus may further include an enclosed space having living or nonliving items therein, such as a room, an aquarium, a kennel, a vehicle, or the like. For example, the system may be affixed to a wardrobe for monitoring and adjusting air quality in the wardrobe to maintain the condition of the clothing stored in the wardrobe. By way of example, the aspects of air quality monitored or adjusted may comprise the level of humidity, presence of harmful particles such as Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC), presence of any mildew and / or odours, or a combination thereof. The system may be connected with a central unit which receives information on the air quality within the storage apparatus from sensors in each of the components and relays the information to the user. The present invention further comprises an external unit in communication with the system to obtain data from the sensors and issue instructions to perform operations on the components.

[0053] Hereinafter, the invention shall be described according to the preferred embodiments of the present invention and by referring to the accompanying description and drawings. However, it is to be understood that limiting the description to the preferred embodiments of the invention is merely to facilitate discussion of the present invention and it is envisioned that those skilled in the art may devise various modifications without departing from the scope of the appended claim.

[0054] Fig. 1 is an illustration depicting a perspective view of a storage apparatus having the system 100 of the present invention installed. The system 100 may comprise at least one central unit 110, at least one environment control unit 120, at least one connector unit 130, at least one bar unit 140, at least one compartment extender unit 150, at least one drawer assembly 160, at least one weighing unit 170, at least one hanger unit 180, at least one dryer unit 190, or a combination thereof.

[0055] Further shown in Fig. 1 is an external device 200 that can be part of the system 100.

[0056] More specifically, the external device 200 may comprise a user interface for the user to

[0057]

[0058] interact with for conveying information regarding the system 100 and to control the system 100. In particular, the external device 200 is configured to receive data from the components in the system 100 to inform the user about the data from their respective sensory modules via the user interface, and to allow the user to provide instructions to the system 100 through the user interface. It should be noted that each system 100 may comprise more than one external device 200 so that there may be more than one user controlling the system 100 at any given moment. By way of example, the external device 200 may be chosen from a group of portable devices comprising a mobile phone, a tablet, a personal computer, a personal digital assistant or the like; where the user interface may be a software application therein.

[0059] The components the system 100, that is the environment control unit 120, the connector unit 130, the bar unit 140, the compartment extender unit 150, the drawer assembly 160, the weighing unit 170, the hanger unit 180, and the dryer unit 190, may sense and manipulate the air quality in a vicinity or compartment of the respective components, and communicate the sensor information to the central unit 110 and external device 200 to display to the user.

[0060] In other words, the system 100 comprises one or more components distributed across the storage apparatus, with each component comprising one or more sensors configured to monitor an internal environment of the storage apparatus, an individual in proximity to the storage apparatus, or any combination thereof. The components of the system 100 operate based on sensor data of their sensors or sensor data of other components, to manipulate other corresponding components, the internal environment of the storage apparatus, or a combination thereof for maintaining a condition of items in the storage apparatus. The present invention further discloses a storage apparatus configured to comprise the system 100.

[0061] Fig. 2 is an illustration depicting a perspective view of the central unit 110, while Fig.

[0062]

[0063] 3 is a schematic diagram depicting the internal features of the central unit 110. The central unit 110 comprises a display 111, a data receiving module 112, a sensor 113, a heating module 114, an air circulation module 115, an ultrasonic transducer 116, an ion generation module 117, and a camera 118. The control unit 110 may be mounted atop a bar unit 140 to connect to a power source outside of the system through the bar unit 140.

[0064] With reference to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the display 111 includes readings of obtained sensor data from the sensors distributed across the system 100 to the user. By way of example, the sensor data includes temperature, humidity, and levels of dust or harmful particles suspended in the air. These data are received from the components located throughout the system 100 and sent to the central unit 110 through the data receiving module 112.

[0065] With reference to Fig.2 and Fig. 3, through data receiving module 112, the central unit 110 receives data from the other components such as the environment control unit 120 and drawer assembly 160, and communicates the data to the user through the display 111. The central unit 110 further comprises at least one sensor 113 to obtain data on the surroundings such as temperature, levels of dust and TVOC suspended in the air, air humidity, or a combination thereof. Besides being displayed on the display 111, the data obtained from the sensors 113 may be transferred to the external device 200 in realtime to update the user on the current reading of the parameters.

[0066] With reference to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, one of the sensors 113 may be a proximity sensor to detect the presence and a height of an individual in the proximity of the system 100 for activating the camera 118 to record activities around the system 100. The detected height may also be saved into created profiles for the users to be saved in the user interface. Personal and health information may be recorded in the profiles to allow the user to interact with the components of the system 100 such as unlocking drawers, or repositioning the extender unit 150 based on the user’s preferences for accessibility.

[0067]

[0068] With reference to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the heating module 114 and air circulation module 115 in the central unit 110 may be activated to perform a dehumidification procedure in its proximity. The heating module 114 may increase in temperature in the proximity around the central unit 110, while the air circulation unit 115 may generate an air current around the central unit 110 to circulate the hot air around the surrounding. The increase in the surrounding temperature facilitates the drying of the items stored in its proximity and further prevents the formation of mould and mildew within the storage apparatus.

[0069] With reference to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the ultrasonic transducer 116 of the control unit 110 may be activated to produce sound waves in the range of 20kHz to 100kHz to repel any insects such as cockroaches or moths from within the storage apparatus.

[0070] With reference to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the ion generation module 117 may complement the air circulation module 115 to rid the air of dust and harmful compounds suspended in the air by providing the dust and harmful compounds with an electrostatic force to clump them together, causing them to be carried away by the air current formed by the air circulation module 115.

[0071] In other embodiments of the invention, the central unit 110 may further comprise one or more surfaces coated with a photocatalytic material to produce free radicals in the presence of light to remove TVOC from the storage apparatus, one or more extender units to reposition components in the system 100, or any combination of the aforementioned features.

[0072] In another embodiment of the invention, the central unit 110 may further comprise one or more buttons 119 disposed on its front surface as shown in Fig. 2 to allow the user to control the component via a sequence of button presses. The buttons 119 provide the

[0073]

[0074] user with an additional mode of operating the central unit 110 independently without the need to control the central unit 110 through the external device 200.

[0075] Fig. 4 is an illustration depicting the front view of the environment control unit 120 mounted onto the connector unit 130. Fig. 5 is an illustration depicting the expanded view of the environment control unit 120, showing the position in which the environment control unit 120 and connector unit 130 are connected.

[0076] With reference to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, the environment control unit 120 comprises a camera 121, an integrated light and air circulation module 122, and at least one refdl core 123. The main function of the environment control unit 120 is to remove harmful substances or toxic TVOC from the air in the storage apparatus. To achieve this, the environment control unit 120 uses the integrated light and air circulation module 122 to create an air current passing through the environment control unit 120 laterally. The air current subsequently passes through the refdl cores 123 in the environment control unit 120. The refdl cores 123 further comprise a plurality of translucent surfaces coated with photocatalytic materials, which release negative ion free radicals into the air current upon receiving illumination from the integrated light and air circulation module 122. The negative ion free radicals react with the TVOC in the air current to produce harmless carbon dioxide and water upon exiting the environment control unit 120 which is subsequently dissipated and dehumidified from the storage apparatus. In one embodiment of the invention, the refdl core 123 further comprises an aroma stone mounted in a pocket among the translucent surfaces. The aroma stone may contain essential oil of the users’ choice to infuse fragrances into the air exiting the environment control unit 120 to improve the mood of the user. It is noted that the light emitted from the integrated light and air circulation module 122 may be controlled by the user to be of a colour chosen by the user in the user interface. The integrated light and air circulation module 122 may be manually activated or deactivated by the user through issuing a command from the user interface of the external device 200. Furthermore, the

[0077]

[0078] user may also predetermine a scheduled activation of the integrated light and air circulation module 122 through the user interface, in which the external device 200 may communicate with the environment control unit 120 to schedule the predetermined time for the activation and / or deactivation.

[0079] With reference to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, the camera 121 of the environment control unit 120 is configured to record a photograph or a video of its vicinity. The camera 121 further comprises a face recognition algorithm powered by artificial intelligence to determine whether the subject detected by the camera 121 corresponds to the profiles of registered usersand locks or unlocks the system 100 based on the facial recognition data obtained by the camera 121. For any data matching the profiles of registered users, the camera 121 communicates with corresponding components to unlock any locked components to provide the user with easy access to the items in the storage apparatus. If the facial recognition data detected by the camera 121 does not correspond to any of the profiles of registered users, the camera 121 activates its video recording function to record the subject in the proximity of the storage apparatus and sends an alert message and the recording to the external device 200. The face recognition algorithm is configured as such to provide the users with privacy, preventing any unnecessary footage of the user from leaking into the hands of malicious entities to harm the users.

[0080] In one embodiment of the invention, the camera 118 on the central unit 110 shares the facial recognition algorithm. For that embodiment, the user may be able to utilise the camera 118 on the central unit 110 for recording videos instead of the camera 121 on the environment control unit 120. This provides the user with options to customise their system 100 based on their requirements to choose the preferred units to attach to their storage apparatus.

[0081] With reference to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, the environment control unit 120 is mounted on the connector unit 130 that provides power to the camera 121 and the integrated light and

[0082]

[0083] air circulation module 122 in the environment control unit 120. More specifically, the environment control unit 120 further comprises at least one groove 124 corresponding to at least one groove 138 on the connector unit 130, for mounting the environment control unit 120 onto the connector unit 130. Furthermore, at least one electrically conductive contact pad 125 is located among the grooves 124 to transfer power from the connector unit 130 to the environmental control unit 120. The contact pads 125 connect with corresponding contact pads 136a of the connector unit 130 to power the camera 121, and the integrated light and air circulation module 122 of the environment control unit 120.

[0084] Although not shown in the figures, one of the embodiments of the invention may have the environment control unit 120 further comprising one or more buttons disposed at the bottom of the environment control unit 120 to allow the user to control the component via a sequence of button presses. The button(s) provides the user with an additional mode of operating the environment control unit 120 independently without the need to control the environment control unit 120 through the external device 200.

[0085] Fig. 6 is an illustration depicting an exploded view of the connector unit 130. On the other hand, Fig. 7 is an illustration depicting the expanded view of the connection between the bar unit 140, the connector unit 130, and a vertical surface. The connector unit 130 functions as a mount for the environment control unit 120 and the bar unit 140.

[0086] The connector unit 130 further provides an electrical circuit in connection to an external power source for the environment control unit 120 and the bar unit 140. The connector unit 130 comprises a casing 131, a mounting bracket 132, at least one mounting hook 133, a cover 134, at least one cap 135a, a set of telescopic springs 135b, at least one contact pad 136a, 136b, a latching clasp 137 and at least one groove 138.

[0087] With reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, the connector unit 130 is mounted onto the mounting hooks 133 which are screwed onto a flat vertical surface. By way of example,

[0088]

[0089] the flat vertical surface may be of a wall of the storage apparatus as shown in Fig. 6, or a protrusion from a ceiling of the storage apparatus as shown in Fig. 7. The mounting hooks 133 further comprise one or more electrical contacts protruding from the opposite side of the mounting hook 133 into the vertical surface where an external power source is required to power the environment control unit 120 and the bar unit 140. The mounting bracket 132 is further formed with holes corresponding to the mounting hooks 133 to hook the connector unit 130 onto the mounting hooks 133 attached to the vertical surface. The casing 131 is subsequently placed over the mounting bracket 132 to provide a structure for the connector unit 130, as well as at least one groove 138 for the environment control unit 120 to be mounted. The cover 134 is attached to the casing 131 over the caps 135a and the telescopic springs 135b to confine them within the connector unit 130. The contact pads 136a, 136b are disposed at the side of the casing 131 and the outermost cap 135a respectively to electrically connect to the environment control unit 120 and bar unit 140 respectively. As mentioned in the description for Fig.

[0090] 5, the grooves 138 allows the environment control unit 120 to be mounted onto the connector unit 130. Finally, a latching clasp 137 is located at the top of the connector unit 130 to further secure the position of the environment control unit 120. It is noted that one connector unit 130 connects to one end of the bar unit 140, and another connector unit 130 is required to mount the opposite end of the bar unit 140 onto another vertical surface.

[0091] Furthermore, the bottom portion of the connector unit 130 is substantially flat to allow the connector unit 130 to be placed on a horizontal surface such as on the floor, on a floor of a storage apparatus or on a table. This enables the environment control unit 120 to be used in other areas that may not necessarily be a storage apparatus, such as a room or the interior of a vehicle. Similarly, the mounting hooks 133 allow the connector unit 130 to be mounted onto other flat vertical surfaces such as adjacent walls in a room, a kennel, or an aquarium to install the bar unit 140 therein.

[0092]

[0093] With reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, to ensure accessibility and reduce difficulty in mounting and dismounting of the bar unit 140, the caps 135a and telescopic springs 135b are configured to be able to compress when the bar unit 140 is attached. This enables the bar unit 140 to be pushed into the connector unit 130 to make a clearance for the connector unit 130 to be placed onto the mounting hooks 133. This is achieved due to the difference in diameter between each telescopic spring 135b allowing the springs to be arranged coaxially when compressed. The caps 135a further enables the configuration by maintaining the generally cylindrical shape of the telescopic springs 135b to prevent entanglement or bending in the springs 135b. The outermost cap 135a may further comprise at least one protrusion to be inserted into the bar unit 140 to affix the position of the bar unit 140 for connecting the second contact pads 136b to the bar unit 140.

[0094] With reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, as mentioned, the first contact pads 136a and the second contact pads 136b supply electrical power from an external source to the environment control unit 120 and bar unit 140 respectively. The first contact pads 136a and second contact pads 136b may further comprise a switch to disconnect the current across the contact pads 136a, 136b when their respective peripherals are disconnected to prevent short-circuits. Furthermore, the contact pads 136a, 136b may comprise magnets to improve the strength of the connection between connector unit 130 and its corresponding components.

[0095] Fig. 8 is an illustration depicting a cross-section view of the bar unit 140. The bar unit comprises at least one end cover 141, a slip-resistant surface 142, a switch module 143, a light module 144, and a conductive rail 145. As mentioned in the description for Fig.

[0096] 7, the bar unit 140 is connected to the connector unit 130, whereby the second contact pads 136b are electrically connected to the end cover 141 to supply electrical power for the bar unit 140. The electrical power is further connected to the control unit 110 mounted atop the bar unit 140 through the conductive rail 145 and subsequently another

[0097]

[0098] set of electrically conductive contact pads as shown in Fig. 8 and Fig.2. The conductive rail 145 is embedded in an insulator such as rubber or plastic to insulate the conductive rail 145 from the rest of the bar unit 140 to prevent any short circuit.

[0099] With reference to Fig. 8, the slip-resistant surface 142 is disposed at the top of the bar unit 140. The slip-resistant surface 142 allows clothes hangers placed on the bar unit 140 to retain their positions, preventing the stored clothing items from cluttering to one side of the storage apparatus, and hindering the dehumidification process of the control unit 110.

[0100] With reference to Fig. 8, the switch module 143 of the bar unit 140 further comprises at least one proximity sensor, configured to switch on the light module 144 when the sensor detects an opening movement of the storage apparatus door. The switch module 143 is further configured to receive instructions from the external device 200 to switch on or switch off the light module 144 following the user’s instruction given in the user interface.

[0101] With reference to Fig. 8, the light module 144 of the bar unit 140 comprises a lightemitting element and a photocatalytic coated cover. The light emitting element is disposed inside a bottom compartment of the bar unit 140, covered by the photocatalytic coated cover. The photocatalytic coated cover may be a translucent material having a coating of translucent photocatalytic material on its surface. The translucent cover diffuses the light from the light-emitting element and dissipates negative ion free radicals into the air in the storage apparatus to remove TVOC, harmful organic compounds or mildew from the air. Furthermore, the light-emitting element may be of a light-emitting device chosen from a group of light-emitting diodes (LED), light bulbs, LED strips, or the like. Therefore, the light module 144 may be configured to receive instruction from the switch module 143 to emit light of different colours as determined by the user through the user interface in the external device 200. In one embodiment of

[0102]

[0103] the invention, the light module 144 is configured to emit ultraviolet light to disinfect items in an enclosed volume, the disinfection method is used when the light module 144 is away from the users as long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation may be harmful to humans.

[0104] Although not shown in the figures, one of the embodiments of the invention may have the bar unit 140 further comprising one or more buttons disposed on the bar unit 140 to allow the user to control the component via a sequence of button presses. The button(s) provides the user with an additional mode of operating the bar unit 140 independently without the need to control the bar unit 140 through the external device 200.

[0105] Fig. 9 is an illustration depicting the extender unit 150, while Fig. 10 is an illustration depicting the extender unit 150 with a storage box attached thereon. The extender unit comprises a guide rail 151, a first slider 152, a second slider 153, a pair of stabilisers 154, a load arm 155, and an integrated motor and control module 156. The extender unit 150 functions to hold onto storage boxes on the top compartment of the storage apparatus. The storage box rests on the load arm 155 while the second slider 153 hooks the top side of the storage box to grip the storage box in place. The left and right sides of the storage box may be held by stabilisers 154 that each grip onto a guide track 157 to prevent the storage box from toppling over to the sides. The guide rail 151 and first slider 152 are configured to extend the storage box held by the extender unit 150 outward from the storage apparatus. Once the storage box is repositioned to the outside of the storage apparatus, the storage box may be lowered along the second slider 153 and guide tracks 157 for shorter users to access the storage box. The extension and depression of the storage box are powered by the integrated motor and control module 156 located behind the base of the storage box.

[0106] With reference to Fig. 9 and Fig. 10, the extender unit 150 may further comprise at least one sensor built into the load arm 155. The sensor may be an ultrasonic sensor, which

[0107]

[0108] automatically pauses its extension or depression and immediately raises the box once the sensor detects a collision between the storage box and a foreign object. In one embodiment of the invention, the extender unit 150 is further in communication with the central unit 110, which detects the user in the proximity of the storage apparatus and sends the sensor data to the extender unit 150 for the extender unit 150 to automatically extend and depress the storage box to a position predetermined by the individual through the external device 200. Furthermore, the user may remotely control the extender unit 150 through the user interface in the external device 200 to reposition the storage box as needed.

[0109] In one embodiment of the invention, the integrated motor and control module 156 of the extender unit 150 are equipped with a photocatalytic lamp, a negative ion generation module, and an air circulation module to eliminate TVOC and harmful compounds from the storage box through an aperture that allows the integrated motor and control module 156 to access the storage box. In another embodiment of the invention, the storage box may be attached with a pair of connector units 130 and a bar unit 140 to provide the storage box with the functions of the bar unit 140 therein.

[0110] Fig. 11 is an illustration depicting a perspective view of the drawer assembly 160 while Fig. 12 is an illustration depicting a single drawer unit 161. The drawer assembly 160 may comprise at least one drawer unit 161, a central biometric sensor 162a, a unit biometric sensor 162b for each drawer unit 161, a locking module 163 for each drawer unit with the unit fingerprint sensor 162b, at least one guide rail 164, at least one slider 165, and at least one integrated motor and control module 166.

[0111] With reference to Fig. 11 and Fig. 12, the central biometric sensor 162a, may be in communication with the locking module 163 that may unlock one or a combination of drawer units 161 of the drawer assembly 160 upon sensing a matching biometric of the user, such as fingerprint with a predetermined profile at the central biometric sensor

[0112]

[0113] 162a. On the other hand, the locking module 163 on an individual drawer unit 161 may be unlocked independently upon sensing a matching biometric with a predetermined profile at the corresponding unit fingerprint sensor 162b. Furthermore, the drawer assembly 160 may be connected to the external device 200, from which an instruction can be issued by the user to unlock the locking module 163 of selected unit drawers 161 or the drawer assembly 160 through the user interface. In yet another embodiment of the invention, the profiles of the users are linked with the profiles of the facial recognition data. The locking module 163 may unlock the drawer assembly 160 by obtaining with the providing the facial recognition data from the central unit 110 or the environment control unit 120, and unlock the drawer assembly 160 once the user is detected to be in proximity to the storage apparatus.

[0114] With reference to Fig. 11 and Fig. 12, the guide rail 164 and the slider 165 allow the drawer unit to automatically extend and retract upon receiving instruction from the external device 200. The drawer unit may be actuated by a motor located at the base of the motor and control module 166. The drawer unit 161 may further comprise an ultrasonic sensor to automatically retract the drawer upon contact with a foreign object. In another embodiment of the invention, the lock module 163, the top portion of the motor and control module 166, or a combination thereof are equipped with an air circulation module, a negative ion generation module, and a photocatalytic light emitter enabling the drawer assembly 160 to eliminate TVOC and harmful compounds from the interior of the drawer assembly 160. The data obtained subsequently are communicated and displayed at the central unit 110 and external device 200. Furthermore, the top portion of the motor and control module 166 may also be unplugged from its base for routine maintenance and cleaning.

[0115] Fig. 13 is an illustration depicting a perspective view of the weighing unit 170. On the other hand, Fig. 14 is an illustration depicting a perspective view of the weighing unit 170 with its top portion elevated. The weighing unit 170 comprises an integrated

[0116]

[0117] weighing module 171, a slider 172, at least one elevator leg 173, an integrated motor and control module 174 and a base 175. The integrated weighing module 171 is configured to measure at least one user parameter. By way of example, the parameters are the user's weight, body fat percentage, skeletal mass percentage, muscle mass percentage, water percentage, or the like; to help the user in keeping track of their lifestyle and health.

[0118] With reference to Fig. 13 and Fig. 14, the integrated weighing module 171 may be raised from the base 175 of the weighing unit 170 with the use of a slider 172 and the elevator legs 173 to elevate short users such as children towards the cameras 121, 118 and sensors 112. This feature enables the integrated weighing module 171 to obtain a reading on the user’s height, as well as to take a photo of the user for recording their profile and facial recognition data.

[0119] With reference to Fig. 13 and Fig. 14, the weighing unit 170 further comprises at least one wheel fitted at the bottom of the base 175 to extend and retract the weighing unit 170 from the storage apparatus to provide the user with access to the weighing module 171. Similar to the drawer unit 161, an ultrasonic sensor is fitted at the base to prevent the weighing unit 170 from collision with other foreign objects that may result in damage or injury. The weighing unit 170 is configured to retract back into the storage apparatus upon actuation by touch with a foreign object or upon receiving the instruction from the external device 200. The integrated motor and control module 174 located next to the base 175 provides the integrated weighing module 171, slider 172 and base 175 with adequate electrical and processing power to perform the aforementioned operations. Furthermore, the integrated motor and control module 174 is connected to the central unit 110 to provide and / or receive the corresponding user parameters and other data for the respective operations.

[0120]

[0121] In another embodiment of the invention, the weighing unit 170 may further comprise one or more buttons 176 disposed on the its top surface as shown in Fig. 13 and Fig.

[0122] 14 to allow the user to control the component via a sequence of button presses. The buttons 176 provide the user with an additional mode of operating the weighing unit 170 independently without the need to control the weighing unit 170 through the external device 200.

[0123] Fig. 15 is an illustration depicting a perspective view of the hanger unit 180 while Fig.

[0124] 16 is an illustration depicting the front view of the hanger unit 180. The hanger unit 180 comprises a plurality of hanger bars 181, a slider 182, a biometric sensor 183, an integrated motor and control module 184, and a light module 185. The hanger unit 180 is located above the dryer unit 190. The hanger unit 180 is configured to work together with the dryer unit 190 to dry any wet clothing items in the storage apparatus. The wet clothing items are hung on the hanger bars 181, and the dryer unit 190 dries the said wet clothing by providing hot air around the said wet clothing items to evaporate water therefrom.

[0125] With reference to Fig. 15, the slider 182 is configured to extend the hanger unit 180 out of the storage apparatus to provide the user with access to the hanger bars 181 at the back end of the hanger unit 180. The biometric sensor 183 actuates the slider 182 for extending the hanger unit 180 from the storage apparatus upon receiving a biometric, such as a fingerprint that corresponds to the data on the user profiles. The slider may also be actuated by the external device 200 through the issued instruction from the user interface. An ultrasonic sensor may be built into the hanger unit 180, to retract the hanger unit 180 upon collision with a foreign object or a person to minimise the risk of damage or injury.

[0126] The light module 185 of the hanger unit 180 comprises a light-emitting element and a photocatalytic surface to illuminate the surroundings and generate negative ion free

[0127]

[0128] radicals to remove TVOC and harmful compounds from the surroundings. Similar to the light module 144 in the bar unit 140, the light-emitting element may be of a lightemitting device chosen from a group of light-emitting diodes (LED), light bulbs, LED strips, or the like. The user may further choose a preferred colour of light emitted by the light module 185 from the user interface in the external device 200. The slider 182, biometric sensor 183, ultraviolet sensor, and light module 185 may be powered by the integrated motor and control module 184 located at the back of the hanger unit 180. The hanger unit 180 may further comprise a plurality of sensors to obtain data of the surroundings such as temperature, levels of dust and TVOC suspended in the air, air humidity, or a combination of thereof. The data is communicated and displayed at the central unit 110 and the external device 200.

[0129] Although not shown in the figures, one of the embodiments of the invention may have the hanger unit 180 further comprising a button disposed behind the biometric sensor 183 of the hanger unit 180 to allow the user to control the component via a sequence of button presses. The button provides the user with an additional mode of operating the hanger unit 180 independently without the need to control the hanger unit 180 through the external device 200.

[0130] Fig. 17 is an illustration depicting an expanded view of the dryer unit 190. The dryer unit 190 comprises an integrated dehumidifier module 191, at least one circulation vent 192, and a moisture collection compartment 193, a display 194, and a power supply cable 195. The dryer unit 190 is located at anywhere wet clothing items are stored, such as a position below the hanger unit 180, to dry the items on the hanger unit 180 using the integrated dehumidifier module 191. The integrated dehumidifier module 191 comprises a processor, a humidity sensor, a heating module, an air circulation module, an ultrasonic transducer, a light emitter, and an ion generation module. The components enable the integrated dehumidifier module 191 to detect the moisture level in the air caused by any wet items in its vicinity, and proceed to show the data on the display 194,

[0131]

[0132] as well as communicate with the central unit 110 and external device 200 to display the data thereon. The dehumidifier module 191 uses the heating module and the air circulation module to blow hot air from the circulation vents 192 to increase the temperature around the hanger unit 180 for facilitating the drying of the items thereon, as well as to prevent the formation of mould and mildew. Following the drying of the items on the hanger unit 180, the moisture collection compartment 193 is configured to catch any moisture, mould or mildew from the hanger unit 180 and collect it in a detachable sponge disposed in the compartment until its replacement by the user.

[0133] Furthermore, from the external device 200, the user may activate the ultrasonic transducer on the integrated dehumidifier module 191 to function as a repellent for pests such as moths or cockroaches by emitting sound waves at frequencies in the range of 20kHz to 100 kHz. The ion generation module is configured to disinfect the surroundings by providing dust and harmful particles suspended in the air with an electrostatic force to clump them together so that they are removed by the air circulation created by the air circulation module. The integrated dehumidifier module 191 further comprises at least one refill core similar to those in the environment control unit 120, for complementing with the light emitter to further remove TVOC from the air in a similar manner, where the air is moved across the refill cores by the air circulation module . Similar to the heating module in the central unit 110, the heating module of the integrated dehumidifier module 191 may be chosen from a group of heating devices that include a ceramic heating element. At the same time, the air circulation module may be a fan.

[0134] Although it is not shown in Fig. 17, regarding the dryer unit 190, the moisture collection compartment 193 may further comprise a moisture sensor and an ultraviolet radiation emitter controlled by the integrated dehumidifier module 191 and the external device 200 to detect the moisture level within the sponge and disinfect it respectively. The water storage compartment 193 may further be fitted with wheels at the bottom to allow

[0135]

[0136] the user to pull out the dryer unit 190 like a drawer to ease the user in replacing the sponge or in performing any cleaning or maintenance. In the meantime, the functions of the dryer unit 190 may be paused to prevent any damage to the unit. The sensors in the dehumidifier module 191 and the moisture collection compartment 193 may be configured through the user interface in the external device 200 to activate automatically when predetermined conditions of the surroundings are met.

[0137] In another embodiment of the invention, the dryer unit 190 may further comprise one or more buttons 196 disposed on the its top surface as shown in Fig. 17 to allow the user to control the component via a sequence of button presses. The buttons 196 provide the user with an additional mode of operating the dryer unit 190 independently without the need to control the dryer unit 190 through the external device 200.

[0138] The present disclosure includes as contained in the appended claims, as well as that of the foregoing description. Although this invention has been described in its preferred form with a degree of particularly, it is understood that the present disclosure of the preferred form has been made only by way of example and that numerous changes in the details of construction and the combination and arrangements of parts may be resorted to without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A system (100) for at least one storage apparatus, comprisingone or more components distributed across the storage apparatus, with each component comprising one or more sensors configured to monitor an internal environment of the storage apparatus, an individual in proximity to the storage apparatus, or any combination thereof;wherein the components operate based on sensor data of their sensors or sensor data of other components, to manipulate other corresponding components, the internal environment of the storage apparatus, or a combination thereof.

2. The system (100) according to claim 1, further comprising one or more external devices (200) that are external to the storage apparatus and in communication with the components, whereinthe components are configured to provide the sensor data to the external device (200);the components are configured to receive instructions from the external device (200) for operating based on the instructions;or a combination thereof.

3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the components comprise one or more heating modules (114, 191) configured to increase a temperature within the storage apparatus.

4. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the components comprise one or more surfaces coated with a photocatalytic material, to produce free radicals in the presence of light to remove volatile compounds from the storage apparatus.

5. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the components comprise one or more extender units (150, 164, 172) to reposition a positioning of the components, or items in the storage apparatus.

6. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the components comprise a camera (118, 121), that is configured torecord facial recognition data of the individual in proximity to the storage apparatus;determine an identity of the recorded individual in proximity to the storage apparatus from the facial recognition data; andunlock any locked component in the system (100) in the event that the recorded individual in proximity to the storage apparatus is a registered user, orrecord a recording of the individual in the proximity of the storage apparatus and send an alert message and the recording to the external device (200).

7. The system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the components include a weighing unit (170) configured to measure at least one user parameter.

8. The system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the components further comprise an ultrasonic transducer distributed across the storage apparatus configured to emit sound waves in the range of 20kHz to 100kHz to repel insects.

9. The system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the sensors are further configured to detect biometrics of the individual in proximity to the storage apparatus and unlock the corresponding components or storage items in the storage apparatus.

10. A storage apparatus that is configured to comprise the system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims.

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