Weight Sensing Closed Loop System for Product Reordering
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a system that can accurately monitor the weight of products in real-time and alert consumers when they are running low, allowing for timely reordering without manual tracking, especially in the context of IoT devices and mobile applications.
Innovation Solution
A system that integrates weight sensor components, such as piezo resistive strain gauge sensors, with electronic circuit modules and wireless communication technology like Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to transmit weight data to mobile devices, enabling users to track the remaining weight of products and receive alerts when they reach a set threshold, facilitating automatic reordering through connected applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual tracking of product weight is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and real-time monitoring capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The weight sensor system automatically monitors product weight and transmits data without requiring user intervention. The system self-calibrates and self-reports weight status to mobile devices, eliminating the need for manual tracking while maintaining simplicity for the end user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical weighing processes with electronic weight sensors and wireless communication systems. This substitution enables automated, precise weight monitoring while reducing the complexity of manual tracking operations.
2Measurement precision
If weight sensor components are integrated into product packaging, then measurement precision improves, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The weight sensing system is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently manufactured and then integrated into existing packaging. This segmentation allows standard packaging manufacturing processes to remain unchanged while adding sophisticated weight monitoring capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The weight sensor system is designed to be universally applicable to various product types and packaging formats. The standardized sensor module can be adapted to different packaging materials and product configurations, simplifying the integration process across multiple product lines.
3Loss of information
If wireless transmission of weight data is implemented, then information availability improves, but use of energy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The weight sensor system transmits data periodically or event-driven (when weight changes exceed a threshold) rather than continuously. This periodic transmission approach maintains up-to-date weight information availability while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring and transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts transmission parameters such as sampling frequency and data update intervals based on product usage patterns and battery status. This adaptive parameter adjustment optimizes the balance between information availability and energy consumption.
4Productivity
If real-time weight monitoring is implemented, then productivity improves, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automated feedback loops where weight data is continuously monitored, compared against predefined thresholds, and triggers automatic reordering notifications or actions. This feedback mechanism enables efficient product replenishment without requiring complex user decision-making processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary weight monitoring and analysis to predict when products will be depleted, allowing users to reorder before actual stockout occurs. This preliminary action approach improves productivity by preventing interruptions in product availability while keeping the system relatively simple.
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
This solution allows for real-time monitoring of product weights, enabling consumers to reorder items conveniently and reducing waste by ensuring timely restocking, while also providing a seamless integration with IoT devices and mobile applications.
Implementation Method 1
weight sensor components, such as piezo resistive strain gauge sensors
Data Source
AI summary
A product container includes sensors and logic that detects a product's weight and communicates the weight to a user's device. An indication may be provided that the product weight has fallen below a set threshold value for reordering, and the user may be prompted to reorder the product. The user may electronically reorder the product or a similar product from their device using one or more software applications.