Acoustic Device Usage Control in Premises

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for controlling the usage of electronic devices in specific locations are inadequate, as they rely on physical signage, which can be unclear and intrusive, and do not effectively restrict device usage based on location.

Innovation Solution

A system utilizing a first circuitry with a processor and sound signal output devices, such as loudspeakers, to emit location-specific usage information as sound signals, allowing for the control of electronic device usage based on the user's location within a premises, enabling or disabling device functions such as vaping sessions, material strength, and usage duration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If physical signages are used to control device usage in specific locations, then usage restrictions can be communicated, but the signages become large and intrusive which is not desirable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveusage restriction communication effectivenessVSAvoidsignage size and intrusiveness

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces physical mechanical signages with an acoustic signal system. Sound signal output devices emit audible signals that convey usage information, replacing the need for large physical signs. This substitution maintains communication effectiveness while eliminating the intrusiveness and space requirements of physical signages.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces sound signals as an intermediary between the control system and users. Instead of directly displaying information through physical signs, the system uses audible signals to transmit usage restrictions and location information to users, providing a less intrusive communication channel.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Loss of information

If physical signages are used to indicate allowed areas, then usage information can be displayed, but the signages need to be large to be effective which may not be possible

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveusage information clarityVSAvoidsignage area

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces physical signage with acoustic signal transmission. Sound signals can convey detailed usage information without requiring physical space, eliminating the trade-off between information clarity and signage area.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If remote control based on age and identity is implemented, then device usage can be regulated, but location-specific control in premises is not achieved

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveusage control capabilityVSAvoidcontrol system completeness

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the control system into multiple independent components: age/identity verification module, location detection module, and sound signal output module. This segmentation allows the system to perform location-specific control while maintaining the existing remote control capabilities, avoiding overall system complexity increase.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal control system that handles both remote control (age/identity-based) and location-specific control through a unified architecture. The sound signal output device serves multiple functions by conveying different types of usage information based on user characteristics and location, improving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution provides clear and effective location-specific control of electronic device usage, reducing the number of devices used in restricted areas by ensuring users are informed and devices are automatically or manually controlled according to their location, enhancing compliance with usage restrictions.

Implementation Method 1

a sound signal output device (14) comprising at least one loudspeaker (15)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectroacoustic conversion:

Data Source

PatentUS11470421B1Control usage of electronic devices in premises

Publication Date: 2022.10.11 JT INTERNATIONAL SA

AI summary

Provided is a system that controls at least one sound signal output device to emit at least one sound signal in at least one chosen area of a premises. This sound signal represents location-specific usage information of at least one electronic device and is intended to induce a control of a usage of this electronic device based on this location-specific usage information.