Systems and methods for coupling the operations of a volatile composition dispenser and a smart appliance

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a volatile composition dispenser that can synchronize the release of scents with the operation of smart appliances, allowing users to associate specific smells with various tasks or activities, enhancing the experience of using appliances like washers, dryers, or watching TV.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a central communication unit connected to both smart appliances and volatile composition dispensers via wireless communication, which runs algorithms to control the dispenser based on the status of the appliances, ensuring synchronized scent release during their operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a volatile composition dispenser operates independently without integration to smart appliances, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but the adaptability to synchronize scent delivery with appliance operations is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesynchronization capabilityVSAvoidsystem integration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A central communication unit serves as an intermediary between smart appliances and the volatile composition dispenser. The CCU receives status signals from appliances (e.g., washer/dryer operation states) and translates them into control instructions for the dispenser, enabling synchronized scent delivery without requiring direct complex integration between the appliance and dispenser systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system is segmented into independent functional modules: smart appliances, a central communication unit, and a volatile composition dispenser. Each module operates independently but communicates through standardized signals, allowing the synchronization capability to be added without increasing the internal complexity of individual components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If a central communication unit is introduced to coordinate between smart appliances and volatile composition dispensers, then the adaptability and synchronized operation are improved, but the device complexity and number of components are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoordination capabilityVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The central communication unit performs multiple functions: receiving status signals from various types of smart appliances, processing these signals according to programmed algorithms, and sending appropriate control instructions to the volatile composition dispenser. This multi-functionality consolidates coordination capabilities into a single component rather than requiring separate integration mechanisms for each appliance-dispenser pair.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback loops where the CCU continuously monitors appliance status signals and adjusts dispenser operation accordingly. The algorithm processes incoming appliance status information and dynamically controls scent delivery timing and duration, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to changing conditions without requiring manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10416687B2Systems and methods for coupling the operations of a volatile composition dispenser and a smart appliance
Publication Date: 2019.09.17 PROCTER & GAMBLE CO
  • US10416687B2 patent drawing
  • US10416687B2 patent drawing
  • US10416687B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for delivering a volatile composition into the air is provided. The system includes a central communication unit capable of receiving incoming signals and sending outgoing instructions. The central communication unit is communicably connected with a memory configured to store an algorithm. The system includes a smart appliance communicably connectable with the central communication unit and configured to send incoming signals to the central communication unit alerting the central communication unit of a status of the smart appliance. The system also includes a volatile composition dispenser that is communicably connectable with the central communication through a wireless communication link. The algorithm controls the volatile composition dispenser based on incoming signals sent from the smart appliance to the central communication unit.