Cigarette Dispensing Device With Variable Delay And Geo-Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cigarette dispensing devices are inadequate for compulsive smokers and those with low tobacco dependency, as they allow automatic opening based on pre-set timers, increasing manufacturing costs and not effectively aiding in smoking habit regulation.
Innovation Solution
A cigarette dispensing device with a mobile handset application that introduces a variable delay between the user's request and the physical opening of the case, emitting information messages during this time, and utilizing geo-positioning to prevent smoking in specific locations or times, reducing immediate access and aiding in habit modification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a pre-set timer is used to automatically open the cigarette case after a fixed time interval, then the device can assist smokers with regular habits, but it fails to effectively help compulsive smokers and those with low tobacco dependency while increasing manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mobile application as an intermediary between the user and the cigarette case. The application serves as a mediator that communicates with the case via Bluetooth, providing the intelligence and adaptability that would otherwise require complex embedded systems in the case itself. This allows sophisticated smoking habit management while keeping the hardware simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical timer mechanisms with software-based time management through a mobile application. Instead of hardware timers and complex electronic control circuits, the system uses software to manage timing, delays, and smoking intervals, significantly reducing hardware complexity while increasing flexibility.
2Ease of operation
If immediate access to cigarettes is provided upon user request, then user convenience is maximized, but compulsive smoking behavior is reinforced and habit modification is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary anti-action by introducing a deliberate delay between the user's request for a cigarette and the actual dispensing. The system intentionally slows down access, requiring the user to wait and reflect before obtaining the cigarette. This counteracts the immediate gratification that reinforces compulsive behavior, while still maintaining ease of operation through simple button presses or voice commands.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If geographic location restrictions are implemented to prevent smoking in specific areas, then public health compliance is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic GPS location checks rather than continuous monitoring. The system checks the user's location at specific intervals (e.g., when the user requests a cigarette or at predetermined time intervals) rather than continuously tracking position. This approach effectively prevents smoking in restricted areas while significantly reducing power consumption compared to continuous GPS monitoring.
Data Source
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AI summary
Cigarette dispensing device; comprising a case (1) provided with a lid (11) including a closure element (12) controlled by an electric actuator (13), an electronic plate (14), and a rechargeable battery (15) for powering the electronic plate (14) and the electric actuator (13); the opening of the case (1) is actuated using an application installed on a mobile terminal (3), which application is designed to: - receive a request for the remote opening of the case from the user; - establish a variable delay time between the case (1) opening request from the user and the transmission of an opening command to the case (1) via a wireless communication; and, - during the variable delay time, transmit an information message to the screen of the mobile terminal (3).