Smart Container Valve Control Using Sensor-Based User Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional containers lack secure and user-specific control mechanisms for dispensing contents, leading to unauthorized access and inefficient usage based on individual preferences.
Innovation Solution
A smart container with a valve assembly, actuator, sensor, and control system that detects user-specific characteristics, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, to authorize content dispensing and adapt to individual consumption habits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional containers are used without control mechanisms, then ease of operation is improved, but security and unauthorized access control deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical opening mechanisms with an automated control system that uses sensors (optical, capacitive, or fingerprint) to detect user identity and triggers an actuator to automatically open the valve assembly, eliminating the need for manual operation while enhancing security
Solution Approach 2:
The container system performs authentication and valve activation automatically without requiring user intervention beyond presenting identification, making the system serve itself by autonomously controlling access based on detected user characteristics
2Reliability
If smart control systems with sensors and actuators are implemented, then security and personalized control are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed to perform multiple functions including authentication, valve control, and user preference management through a single integrated circuit, reducing overall system complexity despite the addition of smart features
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly acts as an intermediary component that mechanically connects the automated control system to the container closure, enabling controlled opening without requiring direct manual manipulation of the closure mechanism
3Reliability
If automated valve control is implemented, then unauthorized access is prevented, but ease of operation for authorized users may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The manual operation of opening the container is replaced with an automated actuator system that responds to sensor detection, providing secure access control while maintaining ease of dispensing for authorized users through automatic valve activation
Data Source
AI summary
The smart container comprises a body and a lid attached to the body. The lid comprises a valve movable between an open position and a closed position. The smart container further comprises an actuator configured to move the valve between the open position and the closed position, a sensor configured to detect a user, and a control circuit communicatively coupled to the sensor and the actuator. The control circuit is configured to receive a signal from the sensor indicative of a sensed condition and send a signal to the actuator when the sensed condition corresponds to an opening state.