Pressure-Sensitive Sensor Pad for Retail Object Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting, identifying, and classifying objects on a surface in retail environments, such as shelves, are inefficient and lack precision, particularly in detecting out-of-stock or misplaced products, and require manual intervention or reliance on video cameras and depth sensors.
Innovation Solution
A sensor pad with a matrix of electrical contacts that vary in resistance or capacitance based on pressure, allowing for automated detection and classification of objects through scanning, including determination of size, shape, location, center of mass, and weight, using conductive ink and piezo-capacitive technology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If video cameras and depth sensors are used for object detection, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex optical systems (video cameras and depth sensors) with a simpler electrical sensing system. The sensor pad uses an array of electrical contacts that detect object presence through electrical signals when pressed, substituting mechanical/optical detection with electrical detection. This reduces device complexity while maintaining detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor pad uses inexpensive electrical contacts arranged in a matrix pattern on a flexible substrate. These simple electrical components are much cheaper than video cameras and depth sensors, providing cost-effective object detection without requiring expensive hardware.
2Productivity
If manual detection methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor pad automatically detects objects without requiring manual intervention. When an object is placed on the pad, the electrical contacts self-activate and generate signals that are processed by the system to identify and classify the object, enabling autonomous operation that improves productivity without complex external control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor pad divides the detection surface into multiple discrete contact points arranged in a matrix. Each contact point independently detects pressure or presence, allowing the system to process detection information from multiple locations simultaneously, thereby improving detection speed and productivity while keeping each individual contact simple.
3Measurement precision
If a matrix of electrical contacts is used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-point or linear sensor arrangements to a two-dimensional matrix of electrical contacts. This dimensional expansion allows precise determination of object location by identifying which specific contacts are activated, providing high measurement precision while using simple electrical components rather than complex positioning systems.
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 accurate and automated detection and classification of objects on a surface, improving inventory management by identifying misplaced or out-of-stock items and reducing manual errors, with the ability to determine object characteristics and proper positioning.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of the first and second conductors is operable to vary in resistance or capacitance based on an amount of pressure applied to that conductor
Implementation Method 2
at least one of the first and second conductors is operable to vary in resistance or capacitance based on an amount of pressure applied to that conductor
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of detecting, identifying, and classifying objects positioned on a shelf are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a sensor pad comprises a plurality of electrical contacts disposed in the pad as a matrix of rows and columns of electrical contacts. Further, each contact corresponds to a different surface area of the pad and has a first electrical conductor positioned on a first layer and a second electrical conductor positioned opposite to the first conductor on a second layer. Also, at least one of the first and second conductors is operable to vary in resistance or capacitance based on an amount of pressure applied to that conductor. In addition, each contact is configured to enable an electrical connection between the first and second conductors with a resistance or capacitance that varies based on an amount of pressure applied to a corresponding area of the pad when an object is positioned on that pad.