Luggage Scale Automatic Power Control via Magnetic Switch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing luggage cases with built-in electronic scales are often inconvenient and energy inefficient, requiring manual lifting to weigh the luggage and may inadvertently consume power during storage or transport, potentially violating airline regulations.
Innovation Solution
A luggage case with a magnetic switch-controlled scale that automatically powers on when the cover is opened and powers off when closed, featuring load sensors and a display for weight measurement, which also enters a low power mode when loading stops to conserve energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the scale is continuously powered on to enable weighing, then the weighing function is always available, but excessive power consumption occurs during storage or transport
Solution Approach 1:
The scale alternates between powered-on and powered-off states based on whether the luggage is being used. The magnetic switch detects when the lid is opened (power on) or closed (power off), creating a periodic operation pattern that provides weighing capability when needed while conserving energy during storage or transport.
2Ease of operation
If the scale is automatically powered on when the lid is opened, then weighing can be performed during loading, but the scale may inadvertently power on during storage
Solution Approach 1:
The scale system automatically manages its own power state based on the lid position detected by the magnetic switch. When the lid is opened, the scale powers on and can weigh items; when the lid is closed, it powers off. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual power control and prevents inadvertent power consumption during storage.
3Speed
If the scale remains powered on during closed storage, then quick access to weighing is possible, but airline regulations may be violated
Solution Approach 1:
The scale follows a periodic operation pattern aligned with lid opening/closing. During closed storage (the majority of time), the scale remains powered off to comply with airline regulations. When the lid is opened for loading or weighing, the scale automatically powers on, providing quick access when needed while ensuring regulatory compliance during transport.
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
Enables convenient, energy-efficient weighing while ensuring compliance with airline regulations by only consuming power when the luggage is open and reducing battery drain through automatic power management.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic switch connected to a power source and the controller, and including a sensing member disposed in the base; and a magnet disposed in the cover
Implementation Method 2
one or more load sensors disposed on the base, and a controller configured to determine a weight of the luggage case based on signals generated by the one or more load sensors
Data Source
AI summary
A luggage case includes: a base configured to accommodate items therein; a cover disposed on the base; and a scale. The scale includes: one or more load sensors disposed on the base; and a controller configured to determine a weight of the luggage case based on signals generated by the one or more load sensors. The scale is configured to be automatically powered on in response to the cover being placed in an open position at least partially exposing an interior space of the base. The scale is configured to be automatically powered off in response to the cover being placed in a closed position in which the cover and the base enclose an interior space of the luggage case.