Electronic shelf label system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional paper-based shelf labels are inefficient for dynamic pricing and inventory management as they require frequent reassignment of information, leading to errors and increased time in updating prices and stock status.
Innovation Solution
An electronic shelf label system with a processor and computer-readable storage device that allows for data recording, display modification, and reverting to original information, enabling store associates to update prices and stock status dynamically while retaining original data in memory.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional paper-based shelf labels are used, then the labels can be easily printed and attached, but they require frequent reassignment of information leading to errors and increased time in updating prices and stock status
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of physically removing and reattaching paper labels with an electronic display system that can dynamically update information through electronic signals. The electronic shelf label includes a display device, processor, and memory that receive update commands wirelessly or through connectivity interfaces, eliminating the manual mechanical operations of label replacement while maintaining the ability to change pricing and inventory information efficiently
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a system where the original label information is stored as digital data in the electronic shelf label's memory. When updates are needed, the system creates temporary copies of updated information for display while preserving the original data. This allows rapid switching between different information states without permanently altering or reassigning the base label data, thereby reducing errors and update time
2Productivity
If electronic shelf labels are used to display current information temporarily, then updating efficiency improves, but the system complexity increases compared to traditional labels
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic shelf label is designed as a multi-functional device that combines display capabilities, wireless communication, data processing, and memory storage in a single unit. The label can display various types of information (prices, inventory status, promotions) and communicate with different systems (central management systems, handheld devices) through universal interfaces, thereby managing inventory efficiency without proportionally increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the electronic display state rather than physical label changes. The display can switch between different information parameters (current price, original price, out of stock status) by modifying electronic parameters such as displayed text, color, or brightness. This approach improves inventory management efficiency by enabling rapid parameter switching while keeping the physical device structure relatively simple and manageable
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and computer-readable storage devices for an electronic label for use within shelf label tracks in stores. Such electronic labels receive initial information associated with an item being sold and begin displaying that information. When a change occurs such that the label needs to be modified, a record of the original information is retained within memory in the electronic label, such that the modified display can be used until the need for the modification ends. At that point, the electronic label can be restored to display the original information again using the stored record.