Smart Shelf Location Detection Using Resistor Stack Voltage Sensing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retail environments face challenges in efficiently configuring and reconfiguring IoT devices and electronic shelf labels due to the need for manual location programming, which is time-consuming and limits flexibility in rearranging shelves and devices.
Innovation Solution
A shelf location detection system that includes smart shelf support members with resistors connected in series, allowing for automatic detection of shelf location and height, enabling accessory devices to self-configure using generated location data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual location programming is used for IoT devices, then location information can be obtained, but device configuration time increases and flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables accessory devices to automatically detect their location on the shelf and self-configure without manual programming. The sensor detects voltage changes from the resistor stack, the controller generates location data, and the accessory device automatically configures itself using this data, eliminating the need for technician intervention and significantly reducing configuration time
Solution Approach 2:
The resistor stack is pre-installed in the shelf support member with resistors positioned at different heights corresponding to different shelf locations. This preliminary arrangement of resistors creates a ready-to-use voltage gradient that automatically provides location information when a sensor engages with the appropriate contact surface, eliminating the need for manual location programming at the time of device installation
2Measurement precision
If manual location programming is used for IoT devices, then location information can be obtained, but system complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex manual location programming procedures with an automatic self-service mechanism. The sensor, controller, and accessory device work together to automatically detect location and configure settings, eliminating the need for specially trained technicians and reducing installation complexity while maintaining high location information accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical programming operations with an automated electrical detection system. Instead of technicians manually entering location data, the sensor detects voltage changes electrically, the controller processes this data automatically, and the accessory device self-configures, substituting complex manual procedures with a simpler automated electrical system
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
The system reduces device configuration time, enhances flexibility in shelf and device placement, and lowers setup costs by allowing for precise location detection and automatic self-configuration of accessory devices.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor associated with the shelf detects the change in voltage across the plurality of resistors when the mounting bracket of the support arm engages the contact surface
Data Source
AI summary
Examples provide a shelf location detection system. A shelf is supported by a shelf support arm engaging a notch in a smart shelf support member having a stack of resistors in series within the interior of the shelf support member. A plug on the support arm removably couples to the notch. A sensor detects a change in voltage across at least one resistor in the resistor stack. A location of the shelf on the smart shelf support member is determined using the detected voltage change. A controller on the smart shelf support member transmits the location to a controller on each accessory device on the shelf. The shelf can further include a plurality of resistors connected in series. The accessory device detects changes in voltage through the plurality of resistors and generates an estimated position of the accessory device on the shelf using the change in voltage data.