Cord Identification System Using Scannable Stickers
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Solution Overview
Problem
The accumulation of diverse electronic device cords, cables, and connectors makes it difficult for users to identify and match the correct cord with its device, leading to time-consuming and frustrating searches, especially when devices are no longer in use or discarded.
Innovation Solution
A network or cloud-based system utilizing self-adhesive stickers with unique scannable codes, such as QR codes, that can be applied to cords and devices, paired with a mobile application for data recording and storage, allowing users to create profiles and track the association of components with their respective devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If users store all cords, cables, and connectors in a basket, box, or drawer to prevent loss, then the cords are protected from being lost, but it becomes practically impossible to identify or match a particular cord with its device
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the identification task by assigning unique scannable codes to each cord and its associated device. This segmentation allows individual cords to be identified and matched with their specific devices through digital records, resolving the information loss problem while maintaining physical storage benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary identification system consisting of scannable codes, mobile applications, and cloud-based databases. This intermediary layer bridges the physical cord and its digital identity, enabling rapid identification and device matching without requiring direct physical association or manual tracking
2Reliability
If users keep all cords accumulated over time in storage containers, then cords are kept organized and secure, but it becomes a time-consuming, frustrating challenge to locate the right cord when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-assigning unique scannable codes to each cord and device combination before storage. Users can quickly locate the right cord by scanning its code and instantly retrieving device association information from the database, eliminating time-consuming manual search and verification processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical search process (physically rummaging through containers to find and verify cords) with an automated information system. Mobile devices with scanning capabilities and cloud-based databases substitute for manual inspection, dramatically reducing the time required to locate and verify the correct cord
3Loss of substance
If users discard devices that are no longer in use, then space is freed up, but users remain reluctant to discard associated cords because they are unsure if they are still needed
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides immediate feedback through the mobile application when a cord is scanned, displaying the associated device information, purchase date, and current status. This feedback mechanism enables users to make informed decisions about whether to retain or discard cords, eliminating uncertainty and facilitating space management
Data Source
AI summary
A system for identifying and tracking components, including but not limited to cords, cables and connectors, that are associated with an electronic device or apparatus or that are part of a “set.” Devices include TVs, DVD players, VCRs, DVRs, computers, printers, camera, and the like. A plurality of self-adhesive stickers marked with a scannable code, each with a unique code in that set, are affixed to a device and its accessories. The codes are scanned by a mobile computing device for entry into the system. Subsequent identification of a particular accessory can be performed by using the system to scan the coded sticker on that accessory.