Mobile Signage Printer with Image Recognition for On-Demand Labeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Retail stores face inefficiencies in managing signage due to unpredictable item locations across stores, leading to manual sorting of signage, which is a non-value-added process.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a mobile base with a printer and image capture subsystem that captures item images, derives identification data, and directs the printer to create signage on-demand as items are encountered, allowing for real-time signage generation and removal instructions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If manual sorting of signage is performed, then signage can be prepared in advance, but labor time and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary scanning of the store environment to identify item locations and signage requirements before actual signage production. The mobile base unit scans and maps the store layout, identifies items requiring signage, and prepares the signage list in advance, enabling efficient on-demand printing without manual sorting
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by automatically scanning the store environment, identifying items requiring signage through image capture and recognition, generating the signage list autonomously, and printing signage on-demand without requiring manual intervention for sorting or identification
2Reliability
If preprinted labels are used, then product information can be displayed, but flexibility for price changes and sales adjustments is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static preprinted labels to dynamic on-demand signage. The mobile base unit can scan the store, identify items requiring price changes or sales adjustments, and print updated signage immediately, allowing the signage system to adapt dynamically to changing promotional requirements and price adjustments
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously scanning the store environment, comparing current item locations and signage status against the planned signage list, and automatically adjusting printing requirements based on real-time observations of what items are actually present and what signage is already in place
3Manufacturing precision
If centralized signage production is used, then quality control is improved, but response time to store-specific needs is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the signage production process by deploying mobile base units with integrated printers to individual stores or store sections. This allows centralized quality standards to be maintained through standardized printing technology while enabling localized, on-demand production that responds immediately to store-specific needs without centralized bottlenecks
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile base unit acts as an intermediary between centralized signage planning and local store needs. It receives signage requirements, scans the local store environment to verify item locations, and produces signage on-site, bridging the gap between centralized quality control and decentralized rapid deployment
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for use in a retail store. An example system includes a mobile base, a printer, an image capture subsystem on the mobile base and coupled to the printer, the image capture system including at least one image capture device and at least one image processor, the image capture device configured to obtain images of items in the retail store, the image processor configured to derive item identification data from the images of items, and a control subsystem coupled to the printer and to the image capture subsystem, where the control subsystem is configured to receive information identifying items requiring signage, acquire item identification data from the image capture subsystem, determine, based on the information identifying items requiring signage and on the item identification data, items requiring signage, and to direct the printer to print signage for the items requiring signage.