Integrated Human Presence Sensor Cable for Workstation Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cable devices for connecting computing devices to display devices lack efficient human presence detection, leading to suboptimal data accuracy and cluttered workspaces, especially in shared office environments where workstation management and sanitation are concerns.

Innovation Solution

A cable device with an integrated human presence sensor operatively coupled between its opposing ends, allowing for accurate detection of human presence and enabling features like workstation occupancy tracking and power transmission, reducing the need for external power bricks and enhancing workspace efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a cable device is used to connect computing devices to display devices, then electronic connection is achieved, but human presence detection capability is lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehuman presence detection accuracyVSAvoiddetection capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functions (video transmission, power transmission, and human presence detection) into a single cable device. The human presence sensor is integrated directly into the cable assembly, merging what were previously separate components into one unified device that performs all functions through a single connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of operation

If traditional cable devices are used, then connection functionality is provided, but workspace clutter increases due to multiple devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkspace organizationVSAvoidnumber of external components
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cable device is designed as a universal multi-functional component that simultaneously provides video transmission, power transmission, and human presence detection capabilities. This eliminates the need for separate power bricks, sensors, and cables, reducing workspace clutter while maintaining all necessary functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If external power bricks and separate sensors are used, then power and detection functions are achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctionality completenessVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates power transmission conductors, video transmission conductors, and human presence sensors into a single cable assembly. This merging of previously separate components (power brick, sensor, cable) into one unified device maintains complete functionality while reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11997421B2Cable device
Publication Date: 2024.05.28 LENOVO SWITZERLAND INTERNATIONAL GMBH
  • US11997421B2 patent drawing
  • US11997421B2 patent drawing
  • US11997421B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device can include a video cable that includes opposing ends; and a human presence sensor operatively coupled to the video cable between the opposing ends.