Modular Scale Orchestrator for Digital Label Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern scales in stores are costly and complex, with proprietary software and hardware that limits customizability and efficiency, making them expensive to maintain and upgrade, and a single malfunctioning peripheral can render the entire device unusable.
Innovation Solution
A computerized method for generating digital product labels using modular scale devices with an orchestrator application that receives product identification data, obtains value per weight data, and calculates product values, allowing for centralized control and efficient workflows, reducing reliance on proprietary systems and lowering maintenance costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modern intelligent scale devices with multiple integrated peripherals are used, then functionality is improved, but cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the scale into two parts: a simple modular scale hardware that only performs weighing, and a separate computing device that handles all complex functions (display, printing, user interface, data processing). This segmentation reduces the complexity of the scale device itself while maintaining full functionality through the connected computing device.
Solution Approach 2:
The computing device serves multiple functions: it acts as the user interface, displays product information, generates labels, processes transactions, and communicates with the scale. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate peripherals into a single universal device.
2Stability of the object's composition
If proprietary software is used to drive scale functions, then integration is improved, but customizability and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a standardized communication interface as an intermediary between the scale hardware and the computing device. This intermediary layer allows different software applications to communicate with the scale without requiring proprietary integration, enabling customizability while maintaining stable communication through established protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The computing device independently manages all software functions and business logic without relying on proprietary scale software. The scale simply provides raw weight data, and the computing device handles product identification, pricing, label generation, and all other intelligent functions, allowing full customizability through standard software development.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex modern scale devices are used, then functionality is improved, but maintenance cost and ease of repair worsen
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into simple scale hardware and separate computing device, the scale becomes easier to maintain with fewer moving parts and no complex software. If issues arise, they can be isolated to either the scale (hardware) or the computing device (software), simplifying troubleshooting and repair.
Solution Approach 2:
The computing device acts as a replaceable copy of the scale's intelligent functions. Instead of embedding complex electronics and software in the scale, those functions are copied to a standard computing device that can be easily replaced or upgraded without affecting the scale hardware.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a single integrated scale device is used, then functionality is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to single point of failure
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides functionality into independent modules: the scale hardware for weighing and the computing device for processing. This segmentation creates redundancy in functionality, as the computing device can handle multiple tasks and the scale can operate independently for basic weighing, improving overall system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The computing device provides multiple functions (display, printing, processing, communication) in a single universal unit, so if one function fails, others continue to operate. This multi-functionality in a separate device prevents single points of failure that would affect the entire system in an integrated design.
Data Source
AI summary
The system and method described herein enable generating digital product labels for products that are valued by weight. Product identification data of a product is received via at least one of a user interface and a network interface. Value per weight data of the product is obtained from a product data store via the network interface. A weight value is determined from at least one scale device via the network interface and a product value is calculated based on the obtained value per weight data and the determined weight value. A digital product label is generated, including at least a portion of the product identification data and product value. The disclosure provides systems and methods that use multiple modular devices, such as the scale devices, printers, and product attribute collector devices, that provide flexibility in organizing the system and reduced cost in initial setup and replacement of devices in the system.