Authentication Cap With Piezoelectric Power Generation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing medication containers, such as childproof bottles, are difficult for individuals with dexterity issues to open and lack information about their contents, posing risks of accidental ingestion.

Innovation Solution

An authentication system that uses a power generation unit to generate electric power from ambient energy, allowing a container to be opened only after successful authentication, which includes a cap with a magnetic structure and a piezoelectric element, and a controller that performs authentication processing based on the generated power, eliminating the need for complex operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a childproof container bottle with cap rotation mechanism is used, then accidental ingestion by children is prevented, but individuals with dexterity issues find it difficult to open

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvechildproof functionVSAvoidopening operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical cap rotation system with an authentication system based on power generation and verification. The cap includes a power generation unit that generates electricity from ambient energy, and an authentication unit that verifies authentication information. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical rotation operations while maintaining childproof functionality through electronic authentication.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The cap is equipped with a power generation unit that automatically generates electricity from ambient energy sources without requiring external power supply or complex user operations. The authentication unit automatically verifies authentication information when the cap is opened, making the system self-sufficient and easy to operate for individuals with dexterity issues.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If childproof authentication mechanisms are implemented, then accidental ingestion is prevented, but the system becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvechildproof functionVSAvoidauthentication system

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cap integrates multiple functions into a single device: power generation from ambient energy, authentication information storage, authentication verification, and childproof protection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system structure while maintaining robust childproof functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical authentication mechanisms with an electronic system based on power generation and digital authentication verification. This substitution simplifies the system by using electronic components that can be integrated into a compact structure while providing reliable childproof protection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS9947214B2Authentication apparatus, authentication method, authentication system, and container system

Publication Date: 2018.04.17 SONY GROUP CORP

AI summary

An authentication apparatus includes an authentication unit configured to perform authentication processing according to power generation information from a power generation unit configured to generate electric power from ambient energy.