Coded Light Device for Retail Product Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for providing product information in retail environments, such as QR codes, are inefficient due to the need for accurate aiming and varying recognition capabilities among smartphones, and lack integration with RFID tags that are not retailer-specific, making it difficult to create a seamless multi-channel retail experience.
Innovation Solution
A coded light device comprising a light source that emits coded light, an identifier detection unit, a processing unit, and a light source controller to generate and transmit product-related codes directly to mobile devices via their cameras, eliminating the need for scanning barcodes or RFID tags, with options for directional antennas and wireless communication to enhance detection accuracy and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If QR codes are used for product identification, then product information can be transmitted to mobile devices, but the user must accurately aim and hold the camera at the code which varies recognition accuracy among smartphones
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical QR code scanning system (requiring precise manual aiming) with an automated optical recognition system. The coded light device emits machine-readable light patterns that can be detected by the mobile device camera without requiring precise manual positioning, thus substituting manual mechanical aiming with automated optical detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces coded light as an intermediary medium between the product information source and the mobile device. Instead of directly scanning static QR codes on products, the system uses dynamically emitted coded light signals that carry product information, serving as a mediator that eliminates the need for precise camera positioning while maintaining information transmission.
2Adaptability or versatility
If RFID tags are used for product identification, then logistic processes are supported, but the tags are not associated with retailer-specific information and do not directly help in creating multi-channel approach
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges RFID technology with coded light emission systems in retail environments. The coded light device receives product identifiers (such as from RFID tags) and combines them with retailer-specific information, then transmits the integrated data through coded light signals to mobile devices, thus merging generic product identification with retailer-specific data requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-configuring the coded light device with retailer-specific information and product databases before the shopping interaction occurs. When a product is detected, the system has already prepared the relevant retailer-specific data to be transmitted, eliminating the need for real-time data retrieval and ensuring information availability.
3Ease of operation
If coded light is emitted to transmit product information, then mobile devices can receive information without scanning barcodes, but the system must generate and control codes dynamically for large numbers of frequently changing products
Solution Approach 1:
The coded light device is designed with multi-functionality to handle diverse product identification scenarios. It can receive various types of product identifiers (barcodes, RFID tags, manual input), generate corresponding coded light signals, and transmit different types of product information through a single unified system, thus achieving universality that manages complexity through standardization.
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 system allows for easy and accurate transmission of product information to mobile devices using standard cameras, increasing user convenience and retailer-specific data integration, while reducing installation complexity and enhancing the ability to manage dynamic promotions and product information updates.
Implementation Method 1
a light source configured to emit coded light
Data Source
AI summary
A coded light device comprising a light source configured to emit coded light, an identifier detection unit configured to detect a product identifier, and a processing unit having a code generator configured to generate a product-related code on basis of the product identifier, and a light source controller configured to control the light source to emit the product-related code by coding its light output.