Shelf Sensor Powering via Handheld Docking Station
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems lack an efficient and automated method for detecting attributes of physical objects on shelves, such as weight and moisture, using sensors that require separate power sources and complex wiring, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
An automated sensing system that includes a shelf with sensors and a docking station for a handheld device, where the device powers an electric circuit to selectively energize or de-energize the sensors, allowing them to detect attributes like weight and moisture, and transmit data to a computing system for analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are used to detect attributes of physical objects on shelves, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity increases due to separate power sources and complex wiring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power supply function with the sensor system by integrating a power source into the shelf structure itself. This merging eliminates the need for separate power sources and complex wiring arrangements, reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement capability through the integrated sensor-power supply system.
Solution Approach 2:
The shelf structure is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for physical objects and simultaneously serves as the power source for the sensors. This multi-functionality reduces the overall system complexity by eliminating dedicated power supply components and wiring infrastructure.
2Productivity
If multiple sensors are deployed on shelves to detect attributes of physical objects, then productivity is improved through automated detection, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complex sensor management
Solution Approach 1:
The sensors are designed to be self-powered through the integrated power source in the shelf structure, eliminating the need for manual power management. The system automatically detects physical object attributes without requiring user intervention for power supply or sensor configuration, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining automated detection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The power source is pre-integrated into the shelf structure during manufacturing, so that when sensors are installed, they immediately have power available without requiring additional setup or configuration. This preliminary action simplifies sensor operation and management while enabling automated detection.
3Productivity
If sensors are continuously powered to enable real-time detection, then productivity is improved through continuous monitoring, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables real-time detection capability through periodic activation of sensors powered by the integrated power source. The shelf structure provides power to sensors as needed for detection operations, allowing continuous monitoring capability while managing energy consumption through the built-in power supply system that activates sensors based on detection requirements.
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 enables efficient and automated detection of physical object attributes, reducing the need for separate power sources and simplifying sensor operation, while allowing for real-time data analysis and alerts for inventory management or product condition monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
Sensors may be formed of a piezoelectric material, which can measure various characteristics, including, for example, pressure, force, and temperature.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for powering sensors on a shelf and using the sensors to detect attributes associated with physical objects are discussed. A handheld device can be coupled to a docking station which can be mounted on a supporting surface on of a shelf for supporting one or more physical objects. Sensors can be disposed on, in or about the supporting surface of the shelf. An electric circuit between the handheld device and the sensors can be powered to selectively energize or de-energize the sensors in response to the docking station coupling with the handheld device.