Consumable Dispenser Sensing for Auto-Replenishment Alerts
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of effective methods for monitoring consumable levels in containers and automatically indicating the need for replenishment, especially in durable or semi-durable dispensers, without requiring additional monitoring devices, and consumers often guess the remaining content by manipulating the container.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a durable dispenser with integrated sensors, such as capacitive or photoresistive strips on consumable containers, connected to a microprocessor and network communication capabilities, which tracks content levels and autonomously indicates when replenishment is needed, using smartphone apps and cloud-based analytics for auto-replenishment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional manual monitoring methods are used (shaking, lifting, or manipulating the container), then users can estimate remaining content levels, but this method is imprecise and requires user intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service monitoring through integrated sensors that automatically track consumable levels without requiring user manipulation. The sensor system continuously monitors content levels and communicates status automatically, eliminating the need for users to shake or lift containers to estimate remaining amounts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical monitoring methods (shaking, lifting, manipulating containers) with electronic sensing systems. Capacitive, photoresistive, or other sensors detect content levels electronically, substituting the mechanical user actions with automated electronic measurement.
2Extent of automation
If no tracking methodology is implemented, then containers remain simple and inexpensive, but there is no automatic indication when replenishment is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates multiple functions into a single monitoring apparatus: level detection, wireless communication, and automated replenishment ordering. This multi-functionality achieves automatic replenishment indication while managing complexity through integration rather than separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where sensors monitor consumable levels, the microprocessor analyzes the data, and the system automatically communicates with users or retailers when replenishment is needed. This feedback mechanism enables automatic indication without requiring complex manual intervention systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If durable or semi-durable dispensers are used instead of direct container dispensing, then product dispensing is improved, but there is no way to add level-sensing capabilities to these pre-existing dispensers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary monitoring apparatus that can be integrated with existing durable dispensers. This intermediary component provides level-sensing capabilities through capacitive or photoresistive sensors that interface between the consumable container and the dispenser, adding intelligence without fundamentally redesigning the dispenser system.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring system is nested within or alongside the existing dispenser structure. Sensors are positioned to monitor consumable levels through the dispenser interface, allowing level detection to be embedded within the durable dispenser without requiring separate external monitoring devices.
4Productivity
If sensors and communication systems are integrated into the dispenser, then automatic monitoring and ordering is achieved, but manufacturing costs and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the monitoring, communication, and control functions into an integrated apparatus that can be manufactured as a unified component. By combining the sensor array, microprocessor, and communication module into a single integrated unit, the system achieves automated replenishment efficiency while simplifying the manufacturing process compared to assembling 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
Provides accurate and convenient monitoring of consumable levels, enabling automatic replenishment orders and enhancing consumer convenience and brand loyalty through data-driven insights.
Implementation Method 1
A system is disclosed for monitoring levels of consumable contents... capacitive or photoresistive strips on consumable containers
Implementation Method 2
capacitive or photoresistive strips on consumable containers
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An auto-replenishment system, apparatus and method for monitoring and replenishing the level of a consumable in a container. The apparatus, system and method includes a dispenser capable of physical association with the container; a plurality of electrical conductors forming a sensing module associated at least with the dispenser, the sensing module having associated therewith firmware for converting signals associated with the electrical conductors to an indication of the level of the consumable in the container; a communications module for communicating the level to at least a user mobile device over at least one network; and a BLE power module having aspects physically distinct from the sensor module, which is capable of at least periodically powering up the sensing module and the communications module absent actuation of an app on the user mobile device.