Battery Identification Device Using Dimensional Sorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for identifying and replacing specialty batteries, such as button or coin cell batteries, are hindered by difficult-to-read engraving and varying manufacturer markings, making it challenging for consumers to self-purchase replacements without professional assistance.
Innovation Solution
A device that measures the diameter and thickness of a battery using a frame with vertically oriented channels and laterally spaced ridges, allowing for automatic identification and display of the replacement battery number, facilitating self-installation and purchase.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If consumers attempt to identify battery model by reading engraving or stamping, then they can potentially determine battery type, but the engraving is difficult to read and varies between manufacturers making identification unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual visual inspection method (reading engraving/stamping) with an automated optical scanning system using a laser to read the battery's identification markings and a sensor to detect the reflected light, converting the identification process into an automated optical measurement system that overcomes the limitations of human reading ability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a laser beam and sensor as intermediary elements between the battery identification markings and the consumer. The laser reads the markings and the sensor converts the reflected light into electrical signals that can be processed by a microprocessor, creating an intermediary measurement system that reliably captures battery identification information
2Measurement precision
If consumers seek professional assistance to identify and replace batteries, then accurate identification can be achieved, but the process requires specialist assistance and is not self-service
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service battery identification system where the consumer places the battery in the device, the automated optical scanning system reads the battery markings, the microprocessor identifies the battery type, and the display shows the replacement battery information - all without requiring specialist assistance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the need for professional human assessment with an automated system combining optical scanning, sensor detection, and microprocessor analysis, enabling consumers to independently identify their battery type through an automated measurement and identification process
3Ease of manufacture
If retail store packaging is used to display replacement batteries, then batteries can be organized for sale, but the packaging hinders comparison and identification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the battery from its retail packaging and places it directly into the identification device's measurement chamber, removing the packaging barrier that prevents proper optical scanning and comparison, allowing the identification system to directly access and read the battery's identification markings
Data Source
AI summary
A battery identification device which sorts a specialty battery requiring replacement initially by diameter then subsequently by thickness through the interaction of an open channel and ridges which include progressively larger ridges that project into the channel to form zones of progressively diminished thickness.