Electronic Post Positioning With Location-Based Power Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing amusement park systems face challenges in efficiently managing and positioning electronic posts to ensure optimal operation and functionality, particularly in terms of power distribution and location-based control.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of an electronic post system that includes a control system capable of determining the location of electronic posts and adjusting power flow to these posts based on their location, ensuring they operate correctly and efficiently.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If electronic posts are installed throughout the amusement park to provide services and information, then the functionality and service coverage are improved, but the complexity of power distribution and system management increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice coverageVSAvoidpower distribution complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The amusement park is divided into multiple zones with receptacles strategically positioned throughout. Electronic posts are segmented into modular units that can be independently installed and removed from these receptacles, allowing service coverage to expand without proportionally increasing power distribution complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A universal receptacle design is implemented that can accommodate multiple types of electronic posts (information kiosks, charging stations, interactive displays). This multi-functional interface standardizes power and data connections, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatile service coverage across different post types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If electronic posts are made easily installable and removable for flexible operations, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of power connection and system stability may worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation flexibilityVSAvoidpower connection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Traditional mechanical power connections are replaced with wireless power transfer technology. The receptacle contains a wireless power transmitter that communicates with the electronic post's receiver, eliminating physical plug-socket connections while maintaining reliable power delivery and enabling easy installation/removal without compromising connection reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the receptacle and electronic post exchange status information to verify proper installation and power connection. Sensors detect whether the post is correctly positioned and connected, providing real-time feedback to ensure reliability while maintaining operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If control systems monitor and adjust power flow to each electronic post based on location, then the operational efficiency is improved, but the device complexity and control system requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Electronic posts autonomously determine their own location using GPS or other positioning systems and automatically negotiate power requirements with the control system. This self-service capability reduces the need for complex centralized control while maintaining operational efficiency, as each post manages its own power consumption based on its location and function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The control system implements dynamic power allocation that adjusts power flow to electronic posts based on real-time conditions such as location, usage patterns, and park events. This dynamic approach optimizes operational efficiency without requiring overly complex static control infrastructure, as the system adapts automatically to changing conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

This solution enables precise control and monitoring of electronic posts, ensuring they are positioned correctly and operate as intended, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and effectiveness of amusement park operations.

Implementation Method 1

an interface positioned within the receptacle and configured to receive power and to wirelessly transfer received power to the electronic post

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWireless power transfer: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20250120001A1Electronic post for amusement park system
Publication Date: 2025.04.10 UNIVERSAL CITY STUDIOS LLC
  • US20250120001A1 patent drawing
  • US20250120001A1 patent drawing
  • US20250120001A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An amusement park system includes an electronic post configured to be positioned within a receptacle of a base of the amusement park system. The electronic post is configured to receive power directed to the receptacle. The amusement park system also includes a control system configured to determine a location of the electronic post and instruct operation based on the location.