Removable component for a consumable with identifying graphic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing physical resource consuming apparatuses, such as laundry treating appliances, lack efficient systems for identifying and dispensing the correct amount and type of consumables during operation, leading to suboptimal performance and potential misuse of resources.
Innovation Solution
A physical resource dispensing and identification system that includes an optical reading system to determine characteristics of consumables, such as concentration and quantity, and control the dispensing process, using optically encoded data on removable components like storage containers, ensuring accurate and authorized use of resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual input of physical resource information is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability of resource identification deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by automatically reading optically encodable data from consumable containers using an optical reading system. The controller automatically processes the read data to determine dispensing parameters, eliminating the need for manual information input while ensuring accurate identification of consumable characteristics such as concentration and quantity.
2Measurement precision
If optical reading system with multiple wavelengths is implemented, then measurement precision of consumable characteristics improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements partial action by using a simplified optical reading approach that reads optically encodable data without requiring complex multi-wavelength analysis for all applications. The controller processes the optical data to determine necessary dispensing parameters, providing sufficient precision for practical use while avoiding unnecessary system complexity.
3Reliability
If optically encodable data is used on removable components, then reliability of authorized use improves, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses optically encodable data as a information copy or representation of authorization and consumable characteristics. This optical encoding provides reliable verification of authorized use and consumable identification without requiring complex physical security features, maintaining ease of manufacture while ensuring reliability.
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
This system ensures precise and efficient use of consumables, optimizing appliance performance and preventing unauthorized or incompatible resource use, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and user experience.
Implementation Method 1
an optical reading system (170) configured to illuminate the removable component and detect light reflected by the removable component when illuminated, the controller (114) using output from the optical reading system (170) to determine at least one characteristic of the physical resource
Data Source
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AI summary
A removable component for dispensing a physical resource from a dispensing system comprising a body defining a reservoir in which a physical resource may be stored, and a graphic (190) provided on the removable component having information. A composite structure (188) formed by the graphic (190) and body having optically encoded information at first and second depths in the composite structure (188).