Electronic Shelf Label Barcode Input Method

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic shelf label systems require a terminal device for managers to set and update product information, which can be inconvenient and prone to disruptions if the terminal device malfunctions.

Innovation Solution

A method that allows managers to set and update product information on electronic shelf labels using various input methods, such as barcode recognition, product identification code input, product list selection, product picture input, and voice input, without the need for an additional terminal device, by providing an input request window on a virtual cell and transmitting the input to a management server.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a terminal device is used to set product information on electronic shelf labels, then product information can be updated and displayed, but the system becomes dependent on additional external devices which may malfunction or be unavailable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem reliabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the terminal device functionality directly into the electronic shelf label device. The ESL now includes its own input interface, barcode reader, and processing capabilities, eliminating the need for separate terminal devices. This integration allows the ESL to independently receive and process product information input, thereby improving reliability while managing system complexity through functional consolidation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The electronic shelf label is equipped with self-service capabilities including an input request window, barcode reader, and product information processing functions. The device can autonomously receive product identification input, obtain product information, and display it without requiring external terminal devices. This self-service approach enhances system reliability by making the ESL independent of external equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If multiple input methods are provided for setting product information, then flexibility and ease of operation improve, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The electronic shelf label is designed with multi-functional input capabilities, supporting multiple input methods including barcode scanning, manual code entry, and picture-based input. The device universally handles different input types through a unified processing framework, allowing users to choose the most convenient method for each situation. This multi-functionality significantly improves ease of operation while the underlying unified architecture helps manage device complexity.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The input interface of the electronic shelf label is dynamic and adaptive, automatically adjusting the available input methods based on the current context and user needs. The system can switch between different input modes (barcode reader, virtual keypad, picture input) depending on the situation, providing optimal ease of operation. This dynamic adaptability allows the device to offer multiple input methods without permanently increasing complexity, as the additional functions are activated only when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11861144B2Electronic shelf label controlling method
Publication Date: 2024.01.02 RAINUS
  • US11861144B2 patent drawing
  • US11861144B2 patent drawing
  • US11861144B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for controlling an electronic shelf label according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes providing an input request window including a barcode recognition request phrase on a virtual cell selected by a user, receiving barcode information of a product obtained by a barcode reader as a product identification input, obtaining product information based on the received product identification input, and displaying the obtained product information on the selected virtual cell.