Mobile Printer Center of Mass Media Level Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile printer users face inconvenience due to the lack of real-time notification when print media is running low, as they often become unaware of the remaining amount while on the move, leading to potential delays or inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing accelerometer and/or gyroscopic sensors to calculate the center of mass of the mobile printer, comparing it to pre-established reference points to determine the remaining amount of print media, and providing alerts when the media falls below a certain threshold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If no media level detection is implemented, then the device complexity is reduced, but the user becomes unaware of remaining print media leading to unexpected depletion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical or optical media level detection systems with a simplified center of mass calculation approach using accelerometer data. The system calculates the printer's center of mass position and compares it against pre-established reference points (full media position, empty media position) to determine remaining media levels, eliminating the need for complex mechanical sensors or optical detectors.
2Measurement precision
If traditional mechanical or optical sensors are used for media level detection, then detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the center of mass calculation as an intermediary method between the physical media level and the digital notification system. Instead of directly sensing media levels with complex sensors, the system uses accelerometer data to calculate center of mass position, which serves as a mediator to infer media consumption status and trigger appropriate notifications.
3Loss of information
If the printer provides continuous media level monitoring, then the user is kept informed of consumable status, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic media level monitoring by calculating the center of mass at intervals rather than continuously. The system determines remaining media levels by comparing current center of mass positions against reference points established during full and empty states, providing timely notifications only when media levels fall below predetermined thresholds, thus reducing energy consumption while maintaining effective monitoring.
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 timely notification to users about the remaining print media, preventing unexpected depletion and optimizing printing operations by providing accurate estimates of the consumable resource level.
Implementation Method 1
calculating center of mass of a device (e.g., mobile printer)... detecting the center of mass of a mobile printer
Implementation Method 2
utilizing accelerometer and/or gyroscopic sensors to calculate the center of mass
Implementation Method 3
utilizing accelerometer and/or gyroscopic sensors to calculate the center of mass
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and method for estimating a remaining amount of a consumable resource are provided. According to one method, a first step of detecting the center of mass of a mobile printer is conducted, wherein the mobile printer comprises print media. The method may also include a step of determining a remaining print media level based on the detected center of mass.