Object storing apparatus and object access method

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional storage cabinets lack innovative functions and efficient methods for object storage and retrieval, failing to provide users with convenient access and additional services related to stored objects.

Innovation Solution

An object storing apparatus equipped with a cabinet body, scanning apparatus, cabinet door detector, and processor, which includes illumination systems and detectors to facilitate object scanning, storage, and retrieval, along with a touch element and display for user interaction, enabling object indication and ordering services based on inventory information.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional storage cabinets are used to store objects, then storage space is provided, but convenient access and efficient retrieval methods are lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconvenience of object storage and retrievalVSAvoidstructural simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The storage cabinet automatically detects object placement through sensors and triggers illumination and scanning operations without user intervention. The system self-manages the storage process by detecting when objects are placed in storage spaces and automatically activates the appropriate functions to record and manage the stored objects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated detection systems. Sensors detect object presence and replacement of mechanical retrieval processes with electronic identification through scanning apparatus, substituting physical interaction with automated sensing and illumination systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If scanning apparatus is activated continuously to scan objects, then object identification is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveobject scanning accuracyVSAvoidenergy consumption of scanning system
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The scanning apparatus operates periodically rather than continuously, activating only when the sensor detects that an object has been placed in a storage space. The system uses periodic illumination and scanning triggered by detection events, reducing energy consumption while maintaining accurate object identification when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The sensor provides feedback about object presence to the control system, which then triggers the scanning apparatus only when necessary. This feedback mechanism ensures the scanning system operates based on actual needs, improving scanning accuracy when objects are present while minimizing energy consumption when storage spaces are empty.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If illumination is provided at high brightness to facilitate scanning, then scanning accuracy is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescanning detection accuracyVSAvoidillumination energy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The illumination apparatus provides high-brightness light periodically only when the sensor detects an object in the storage space. During normal operation when no objects are present, the illumination remains off or operates at minimal brightness, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining high scanning accuracy when objects need to be identified.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 solution enhances user convenience by guiding object storage and retrieval processes, providing related information and services, such as inventory management and ordering, through intelligent detection and illumination systems, improving storage habits and user experience.

Implementation Method 1

The scanning apparatus is disposed in the internal space, and adapted to scan the external object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

The scanning illumination apparatus is coupled to the processor, disposed in the internal space, and adapted to illuminate a scanning area of the scanning apparatus

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectroluminescence: Electroluminescence

Implementation Method 3

The cabinet door detector determines that the cabinet door is opened or closed

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical detection:

Data Source

PatentUS11023697B2Object storing apparatus and object access method
Publication Date: 2021.06.01 COMPAL ELECTRONICS INC
  • US11023697B2 patent drawing
  • US11023697B2 patent drawing
  • US11023697B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides an object storing apparatus, an object access method, an object obtaining service method, and an object indication method thereof. The object storing apparatus includes a cabinet body and a cabinet door, and storing positions are disposed inside the cabinet body. The object access method includes the following steps. Whether the cabinet door is opened is determined. In response to the cabinet door being opened, whether a scanning operation for a first external object is activated is determined. The first external object being not an existing external object at a storing position. In response to the scanning operation being activated, object storing is determined. In response to the existing external object being moved, object obtaining is determined. Accordingly, an automatic and convenient storing function can be provided.