Smart Shelf Promotion Device with Ultrasonic Vibration and Remote Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shelf promotion devices lack remote control automation, universal product grip, reliable transmission mechanisms, noise reduction, illumination, odor dissemination, stable fastening, and energy efficiency, requiring manual monitoring and increasing operational costs.
Innovation Solution
A remote-controlled automated device with a modular universal product gripping system, electronically controlled lighting and smell dispensers, vibration-dampened motion transmission, integrated microprocessor-based control, and communication modules for bidirectional data transmission, enabling automated operation, product customization, and energy management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If a step-by-step motor with transmission mechanism is used to move the product, then the product can be promoted through motion, but the device becomes noisy and the transmission mechanism fails frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical step-by-step motor with transmission mechanism with an ultrasonic vibration module. The ultrasonic module generates high-frequency vibrations that directly move the product without mechanical transmission components, eliminating noise from gears and belts while improving reliability by removing failure-prone mechanical linkages.
Solution Approach 2:
The ultrasonic vibration module operates at ultrasonic frequencies (above 20kHz), creating a phase transition in the vibration regime from audible mechanical vibration to inaudible ultrasonic vibration. This phase transition in frequency domain resolves the noise issue while maintaining the motion promotion function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a remote sensor is used to detect consumers, then automated control is achieved, but the device cannot differentiate between consumers and physical objects like shopping trolleys
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a camera module to capture dynamic images of approaching objects. By analyzing motion patterns, speed, and trajectory in the captured images, the system can differentiate between consumers (who move with specific human gait patterns) and inanimate objects like shopping trolleys (which have different motion characteristics). This dynamic analysis approach improves detection accuracy without requiring complex sensor arrays.
3Adaptability or versatility
If individual devices are set manually in stores, then each device can be customized, but the process is laborious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a cloud-based configuration system where device settings can be remotely updated and customized without physical presence in the store. The microprocessor receives configuration commands via communication modules (WiFi, Bluetooth, or cellular) from remote servers, allowing store operators to customize multiple devices simultaneously from any location, eliminating the need for manual on-site setup of each device.
4Productivity
If the device operates continuously to promote products, then product visibility is maximized, but energy consumption increases unnecessarily when stores are closed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic operation cycles where the device activates during store operating hours and enters sleep mode during closed hours. The microprocessor controls the ultrasonic module, lighting system, and audio speaker to operate only during productive periods, reducing energy consumption by approximately 8-10 hours daily while maintaining product promotion effectiveness during business hours.
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 device allows for remote setup and monitoring, reduces noise and operational costs, accommodates various products, and provides efficient energy management, enhancing product promotion through sound, motion, light, and scent while reducing manual intervention and increasing product range support.
Implementation Method 1
an electric motor with a vibration dampener
Implementation Method 2
the product lighting system comprising the electronically controlled magnet lamp
Implementation Method 3
the motion sensor or the video camera detecting the consumer
Implementation Method 4
Integrated WiFi/Bluetooth modules designed to transmit and receive radio signals over WiFi
Implementation Method 5
a cellular transmission module, used if a WiFi network is not available, allowing it to connect to the Internet
Data Source
AI summary
A smart device for the promotion of shelf products exhibited in consumer commercial settings may utilize sound, motion, light, and smell when a consumer is proximate a shelf. The smart may consist of a motion transmission system (T) installed in a box (1), a modular universal gripping system (32), an integrated electronic circuit board (35) on which control and command components are installed; an electronically controlled magnet lamp (24), a smell dispenser (28), an audio system (A) consisting of a loudspeaker (34) and an audio amplifier (37), a motion sensor (29), and communication means (C) for bidirectional transmission/reception of the commands for operation parameters. Operation parameters may be keyed to a consumer's characteristics, reports on the traffic in front of the shelf where the device is installed, and the number of interactions with the consumer. This information may be uploaded on the web platform and provided as a report.