Inductance Powered Packaging for Device Configuration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Users face increasing time and effort in configuring newly purchased devices, as they need to manually download content and settings, especially when transferring data from old devices, which can be time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of inductance power transfer to temporarily power devices during shipment, allowing for the storage of user-specific data and settings, such as unique identifiers, which can be used to automatically configure the device upon delivery, using an induction coil and integrated circuit that receives power externally and stores data for pre-configuring the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual configuration methods are used, then users can transfer data and settings, but the time and effort required for device setup increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring device settings and transferring user data during the packaging and shipping process before the device reaches the user. The system automatically provisions the device with user-specific content, app stores, and preferences during transit, eliminating the need for manual configuration upon arrival and significantly reducing setup time.
2Extent of automation
If devices are powered during shipment for configuration, then automatic configuration is enabled, but power management becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by providing power to the device in a controlled, time-limited manner during specific windows of the shipping process. The system activates power only when needed for configuration tasks during transit, then shuts it off to conserve battery life, creating a periodic on-off power cycle that enables automation without requiring permanent power management complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If inductance power transfer is used, then devices without batteries can be powered, but the packaging system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an intermediary inductance coupling system that enables wireless power transfer between the packaging system and the device without direct electrical contact. This intermediary electromagnetic field approach allows devices without batteries or with depleted batteries to be powered during shipping for configuration, while avoiding the need for complex physical battery installation mechanisms or direct wiring in the packaging.
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 method enhances the out-of-box experience by automatically configuring devices with user-specific content and settings, reducing the time and effort required for setup and facilitating easier device configuration at fulfillment centers, especially for devices without batteries.
Implementation Method 1
inductance power transfer to temporarily power devices during shipment
Implementation Method 2
using an induction coil and integrated circuit that receives power externally
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for facilitating the configuration of a device through inductance power transfer are described. In some instances, a device that is packaged for shipment may be associated with an induction coil. The induction coil may be disposed within a package or otherwise arranged. The device may be temporarily powered via the induction coil to receive content wirelessly and store the content on the device. The content may be associated with a user to which the package will be shipped.