Trash Bag State Detection for Automatic Supply Reordering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users have to manage the inventory of products and manually place orders, which is inefficient and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
An information processing device and method that automatically orders products based on the number of times a trash bag in a trash can changes from having trash to being empty, using sensors to detect odor or other parameters, and a control unit to place orders when a predetermined threshold is reached.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users manually manage inventory and place orders, then they have control over product stocking, but it consumes user time and effort
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by allowing the trash can to automatically detect its own trash bag status and place orders for replacement without user intervention. The control unit monitors the trash bag state and autonomously initiates ordering processes, making the system serve itself rather than requiring manual user management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by placing orders before the trash bag is completely full or before the user would naturally notice the need for replacement. The control unit monitors trash accumulation in real-time and initiates ordering processes proactively, ensuring products are replenished at appropriate times before depletion occurs.
2Extent of automation
If automatic ordering based on trash detection is implemented, then user convenience is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trash can system achieves multi-functionality by combining trash disposal with automated inventory management and product ordering capabilities. The control unit serves multiple purposes: monitoring trash bag status, determining when replacement is needed, and initiating order processes, thereby reducing the need for separate dedicated devices for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary between the trash bag detection mechanism and the ordering system. It processes sensor data about trash bag status and translates this information into automated ordering actions, mediating between the physical trash monitoring function and the digital product ordering function.
3Loss of time
If product ordering is triggered by trash bag state changes, then ordering timing is optimized, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by placing orders before the trash bag reaches complete fullness. The control unit detects early signs of trash accumulation and initiates ordering processes proactively, ensuring products are replenished at appropriate times before depletion occurs, rather than waiting for exact threshold conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit implements feedback by continuously monitoring the trash bag state and using this information to determine when ordering is appropriate. The system processes sequential state changes and uses this feedback loop to optimize ordering timing based on actual usage patterns rather than relying on fixed thresholds.
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
Enables users to order products at appropriate times without manually managing inventory, ensuring timely replenishment of supplies.
Implementation Method 1
using sensors to detect odor or other parameters
Data Source
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AI summary
An information processing device includes a control unit that executes: acquiring information on whether a trash bag (13) placed in a trash can (10) contains trash; and placing an order for a product related to the trash or for trash bags (13) based on the number of times a state in which there is the trash in the trash bag (13) is changed to a state in which there is no trash in the trash bag (13).