Touchscreen Display Assembly for Parking Meter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Single space parking meters lack the space for alphanumeric keypads due to their smaller size, limiting their functionality and user interface options compared to multi-space meters.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a touchscreen display assembly with a low-power wake trigger and SPI touch screen module, allowing for a flexible user interface that includes virtual keys and reduced power consumption, enabling pay-by-space and pay-by-plate functionalities without the need for physical keypads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a touchscreen display assembly is integrated into a single space parking meter, then the user interface functionality is enhanced and power consumption is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the display and touch sensor into a single touchscreen display assembly, merging multiple components (display, touch sensor, controller) into one integrated unit. This integration enhances user interface functionality while managing device complexity through consolidation rather than addition of separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The touchscreen display assembly serves multiple functions: it displays information, accepts user input through touch, and replaces the need for separate physical keypads. This multi-functionality enhances adaptability while the modular design allows it to be adapted to different parking meter configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a touchscreen display assembly is integrated into a single space parking meter, then payment options are expanded, but the space available for other components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the keypad functionality from the main body and integrates it into the touchscreen display assembly. This extraction allows the physical keypad to be removed, saving space while maintaining input capabilities. The touchscreen assembly is designed to be space-efficient compared to traditional physical keypads.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional physical keypad to a multi-layered touchscreen assembly that combines display and input functions in overlapping layers. This dimensional integration allows multiple functions (display, touch input, visual feedback) to occupy the same physical footprint, maximizing space utilization.
Data Source
AI summary
A parking meter may incorporate a touchscreen display assembly that uses a low-power wake trigger, which may be a proximity sensor overlaid on the display, that can power on the display and touch sensor when a user's proximity is detected. The parking meter may incorporate a replaceable panel insert that allows user interface components to be easily retrofitted or upgraded by simply replacing the panel insert. Additionally, the parking meter may incorporate multiple solar panels on the exterior of the parking meter.