Solar-Powered Electronic Sign Assembly with Proximity Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sign devices for displaying building addresses lack a programmable, electronically illuminated panel with a hingedly attached solar panel and wireless communication to automatically activate the display when a delivery driver approaches within a predetermined distance.
Innovation Solution
A display panel mountable to a building's exterior wall with a hingedly attached solar panel, an integrated display for showing the address, a keyboard for programming, and a communication unit that wirelessly connects to personal electronic devices to activate the display when the driver is near.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an electronically illuminated address panel with wireless communication is used, then address visibility and automatic activation are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated device: the address panel, solar panel, wireless communication unit, and automatic activation system are merged into one unit. This allows the device to automatically activate when a delivery driver approaches, eliminating the need for manual switching while keeping the overall system compact and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The address panel serves multiple functions: it displays the address, automatically activates upon detecting a nearby device, charges itself via solar power, and communicates wirelessly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate devices and simplifies operation for the end user.
2Use of energy by moving object
If a solar panel is added to power the electronic display, then energy independence is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel is physically and functionally integrated with the address panel, combining power generation and information display into a single unit. This eliminates the need for separate wiring to external power sources and reduces the number of components that would otherwise be needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The device generates its own power through the integrated solar panel, eliminating dependence on external power sources. The solar panel automatically charges the device during the day, and the device operates independently without requiring manual intervention for power management.
3Illumination intensity
If the display is always on to ensure visibility, then address visibility is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of remaining constantly on, the display activates periodically based on the presence of a nearby device. When a delivery driver's personal electronic device is detected within the predetermined distance, the display turns on to show the address. When no device is nearby, the display remains off, conserving energy while ensuring visibility when needed.
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
Ensures clear address visibility to delivery drivers, both day and night, by automatically turning on the display when they approach, using solar power for operation and reducing manual activation needs.
Implementation Method 1
a solar panel hingedly coupled to the display panel
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic sign assembly includes a display panel that is mountable to an exterior wall of a house and a solar panel is hingedly coupled to the display panel. A display is mounted to the display panel such that the display is visible to an individual approaching the house. The display displays indicia comprising the street address of the house to facilitate the individual to identify the address of the house. A communication unit is integrated into the display panel and the communication unit is in remote communication with a wireless communication network thereby facilitating the communication unit to communicate with a personal electronic device of a delivery driver. The communication unit actuates the display to display the indicia when the personal electronic device moves within a pre-determined delivery distance of the house.