Laser Triggered Display Device Location
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for deploying electronic information and sales assisting devices in commercial environments face challenges such as inaccurate location documentation and human error during large-scale installations, especially in areas with limited GPS access or poor ability to distinguish between nearby items.
Innovation Solution
A novel system using a laser beam generated by a transmitter unit in a base station to detect, communicate with, and control battery-operated devices in public spaces. The system employs a laser detector on the devices that emits a fluorescent signal when impinged upon by the laser beam, allowing for precise location and status identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If devices are deployed rapidly over large areas, then installation speed and productivity are improved, but location accuracy and documentation precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical location documentation methods with an optical detection system. A laser transmitter emits laser beams that scan the deployment area, and a laser detector automatically detects fluorescent signals from devices to determine their precise locations. This substitution of mechanical/manual location methods with optical detection enables both rapid deployment and accurate location documentation simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through automatic detection and documentation. The laser detection system automatically identifies device locations and the system automatically documents them without human intervention. The fluorescent materials on devices automatically respond to laser illumination, enabling the system to self-detect and record device positions during rapid deployment operations.
2Reliability
If GPS is used for location tracking, then location capability is provided, but functionality is lost in areas with limited GPS access such as indoors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating parameters from GPS radio frequency signals to optical laser beams in the SWIR region. This parameter change allows the system to operate in environments where GPS is unavailable, such as indoors or in areas with poor satellite reception. The laser-based optical detection system provides reliable location capability across diverse environments including indoor commercial spaces, warehouses, and other GPS-denied areas.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If fluorescent materials are used for detection, then device detectability is improved, but differentiation from environmental objects becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using specific fluorescent materials with unique spectral characteristics at particular deployment locations. Different devices use fluorescent materials with different emission wavelengths or intensity profiles, creating locally differentiated optical signatures. This enables the laser detection system to distinguish between different device types and locations based on their unique fluorescent responses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite fluorescent materials that combine multiple fluorescent compounds with different emission characteristics. These composite materials provide enhanced detectability while maintaining differentiation capability through their complex spectral signatures. The combination of multiple fluorescent materials creates unique detection patterns that distinguish devices from environmental objects and from each other.
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
The system enables accurate and efficient location of devices, reduces human error, and allows for centralized management and control of devices, improving installation efficiency and operational reliability.
Implementation Method 1
A laser detector is then installed on the device, and is selected to emit fluorescent illumination when the laser beam impinges on the laser detector
Implementation Method 2
The detector may further be adapted to provide the device with power for its operation and/or for keeping an installed battery charged
Data Source
AI summary
New exemplary systems using a laser beam generated by a transmitter unit in abase station, for detecting, communicating with and controlling devices, typically battery-operated, installed in public spaces. Interaction between the laser beam and the device uses a laser detector module on the device, selected to emit a fluorescent signal when the laser beam impinges thereon. A fluorescence detector is installed on the base station, and it detects the incoherent fluorescence emitted by the device when the laser impinges on the device. A wireless data link can implement the exchange of information and instructions between the base station and the device, that may be needed following positive detection of the fluorescent emission from the device. The system may use a laser beam in the short wavelength infra-red (SWIR) region. The detector may provide the device with power for its operation and/or for keeping an installed battery charged.