Battery-Powered Electronic Tag With Light-Conducting Side Wall
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic labels using electronic paper displays (EPDs) face high energy consumption and slow image updates when attempting to dynamically change images, limiting their ability to attract attention through dynamic image changes.
Innovation Solution
An electronic label design with a light-conducting side wall that emits light to draw attention, controlled by the label's electronics, while the screen displays static information, using a battery or rechargeable battery for power, and a communication module for data exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the EPD displays dynamic images by repeatedly updating the image, then the image content can change, but the energy consumption increases significantly and the image update becomes visible to the viewer
Solution Approach 1:
The label is divided into two distinct functional parts: the EPD screen for static information display and the light-emitting side wall for dynamic attention-drawing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its optimized function without the drawbacks of the other
Solution Approach 2:
The attention-drawing function is moved from the traditional 2D screen plane to the 3D side wall surface. Light is emitted laterally from the side wall rather than from the front screen, creating a new spatial dimension for dynamic signaling that does not interfere with the static EPD display
2Speed
If the EPD refreshes the display frequently to prevent image stuttering, then the image sequence becomes smoother, but the energy consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The light-emitting diodes on the side wall are controlled to emit light periodically or in specific patterns (steady, blinking, alternating colors) rather than requiring continuous high-frequency refreshing. This periodic action achieves dynamic signaling with minimal energy consumption
3Adaptability or versatility
If a light source is added to the electronic label to draw attention dynamically, then the ability to attract viewer attention improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light-emitting function is merged with the housing structure itself. The side wall is made translucent and integrates LED light sources, combining the structural housing with the light-emitting function to minimize additional complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The side wall serves multiple functions: it provides structural support as part of the housing, acts as a light guide for the attention-drawing LEDs, and can also serve as a mounting surface for the energy storage holder. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components
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
The solution allows for dynamic attention-drawing without significant energy consumption, enabling efficient use of static information display and controlled light emission for product differentiation and staff alerts, with reduced energy needs and improved visibility.
Implementation Method 1
the side wall is designed to be light-conducting, wherein a light source for emitting the light that can be generated with it is positioned through the side wall within the housing
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~8
AI summary
Electronic label (1) with a housing (2) which has a front wall (3) and a rear wall (4) and at least one side wall (5), wherein the front wall (3) has a, in particular reflective, screen (3A), wherein, in contrast to the front wall (3) and rear wall (4), the side wall (5) is designed to be light-conducting, wherein a light source (19A, 29B) for emitting the light which can be generated thereby is positioned through the side wall (5) within the housing (2), wherein the side wall (5) is at least partially inclined towards the front wall (3), wherein the side wall (5) has an energy storage holder (7) which projects into the interior of the housing (2) and is designed to hold at least one electrical energy storage device (8), in particular a battery ora rechargeable battery, particularly preferably a button cell battery, is formed at a designated position in the housing (2), and wherein the rear wall (4) has a recess (12) adjacent to the side wall (5) and a part of the energy storage holder (7) is exposed there.