IoT Cooler Retrofit With Sensor Monitoring for Usage Analytics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional food and beverage coolers lack data capture capabilities, preventing the measurement and analysis of customer interactions and business insights that could improve consumer experiences and provide valuable data to manufacturers and store owners.
Innovation Solution
Integration of sensor suites and data modules into coolers, including traffic, door, refrigeration system, and stock monitoring systems, with communication capabilities for data collection and processing, enabling optimization of cooler usage through machine learning models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If sensor suites and data modules are integrated into coolers, then data capture capabilities are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensors (temperature, humidity, light, motion) and communication modules into an integrated data collection system that is embedded within the cooler structure. This merging approach enables comprehensive data capture while managing complexity through systematic integration of components into a unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The data module serves multiple functions including data collection from various sensors, wireless communication of data, and control of cooler operations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby capturing comprehensive data while limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are installed in coolers, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the measurement system into modular sensor units that can be independently selected and installed based on specific needs. Each sensor module is a self-contained unit that can be added or removed, allowing for precise measurement capabilities while controlling manufacturing costs through selective implementation rather than requiring all sensors in every unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for adjustment of measurement parameters and sensor selection based on specific application requirements. This flexibility enables the use of more precise sensors only when necessary, rather than universally deploying high-precision sensors across all coolers, thereby balancing measurement precision with manufacturing cost.
3Loss of information
If data modules with communication devices are added, then information transmission capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a data module as an intermediary component that handles all communication functions. This single mediator component consolidates wireless communication capabilities and data processing, reducing the need for multiple separate communication interfaces and thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while improving information transmission capability.
4Productivity
If continuous monitoring is implemented, then productivity is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic monitoring cycles where sensors take measurements at predetermined time intervals rather than continuously. The data module collects data during these periodic intervals and transmits information wirelessly at scheduled times, enabling continuous monitoring capabilities while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to truly continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes automated data processing and analysis capabilities that operate without constant external intervention. The data module automatically processes collected data, identifies patterns, and triggers alerts only when necessary, reducing the energy required for continuous human monitoring and management while maintaining high productivity through automated oversight.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of retrofitting a cooler includes installing a sensor suite on the cooler. The sensor suite includes monitors or monitoring systems such as a refrigeration system monitor, a traffic monitor, and a stock monitoring system. The method also includes installing a data module on the cooler. The data module is configured to store data acquired by the sensor suite.