Piezoelectric Wireless Trigger for Mobile Computers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for activating the scan engine in mobile computers, such as handles with levers, face issues like premature wear, mechanical robustness concerns, and the need for dedicated physical buttons, which are not always feasible, especially in devices without original buttons designed for intensive use.
Innovation Solution
A wireless remote trigger system using a piezoelectric button and power management circuit that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy to communicate wirelessly with the mobile computer, eliminating the need for physical buttons and reducing maintenance, and can be used on devices without dedicated rugged buttons.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a handle with levers is used to press a physical button on the device, then the trigger function is activated, but the button degrades quickly and requires repair
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical button-pressing system with a wireless communication system. The handle contains a wireless transmitter that communicates with a receiver in the mobile computer, eliminating the need for physical buttons and mechanical levers. This substitution resolves the contradiction by providing both durability (no mechanical wear) and ease of operation (wireless trigger remains accessible).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication system as an intermediary between the handle and the mobile computer. Instead of direct mechanical contact, the trigger signal is transmitted wirelessly through radio frequency communication, allowing the trigger function to be activated without physical degradation of buttons.
2Ease of operation
If a physical button is used for the trigger function, then the trigger is accessible, but the button cannot be used for its original function
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical button system with a wireless trigger system. The handle contains a wireless transmitter that sends trigger signals to the mobile computer without requiring any physical buttons on the device. This allows all original buttons to retain their intended functions while the trigger operation is performed wirelessly through the handle.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a virtual key is used on the screen, then space is saved and original buttons remain functional, but mechanical feedback is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a wireless communication system as an intermediary between the handle and the mobile computer. The trigger signal is transmitted wirelessly, providing mechanical feedback through the handle's trigger mechanism while eliminating the need for screen-based virtual keys. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining both screen space availability and mechanical feedback through the wireless trigger system.
4Ease of operation
If a handle is added to provide a trigger, then trigger functionality is improved, but devices without physical buttons cannot be used
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical button-pressing system with a wireless communication system. The handle contains a wireless transmitter that communicates with a receiver in the mobile computer, eliminating the requirement for physical buttons on the device. This substitution resolves the contradiction by providing trigger functionality through wireless communication, making the system compatible with devices regardless of their button configuration.
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 wireless remote trigger system provides a durable, ergonomic, and maintenance-free solution for activating scan engines, ensuring the buttons remain functional for their original purposes and can be easily installed on devices without pre-designed trigger buttons, enhancing usability and longevity.
Implementation Method 1
A wireless remote trigger system using a piezoelectric button and power management circuit that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy
Data Source
AI summary
A handle or accessory is attached to mobile computers or similar devices. The handle or accessory includes the use of a wireless trigger employing a low energy technology. This trigger does not need a power source since it is provided with a piezoelectric element connected to a power management circuit. The mechanical energy applied from pressing a button is harvested and transformed in electricity and used to enable the low energy technology to communicate wirelessly with a mobile computer or similar device. Different pairing methods can be implemented in the invention to connect the handle or accessory with the mobile computer or similar device.