BR-102024018157-A2 - Electronic device for monitoring and measuring liquid volume in dispensers.

Abstract

The present invention pertains to the personal hygiene products sector and specifically relates to a device attachable to the base of personal hygiene product dispensers, which allows for continuous measurement of the contents, ensuring timely replacement and preventing product shortages, as well as detecting cases of vandalism and product theft.

Inventors

• LUIZ ROBERTO MAGRIN FILHO
• ANDRÉ FERNANDO LOURENÇO DE SOUZA

Assignees

• LUIZ ROBERTO MAGRIN FILHO
• ANDRÉ FERNANDO LOURENÇO DE SOUZA

Dates

Publication Date

20260317

Application Date

20240903

Claims (1)

1. 1- ELECTRONIC DEVICE FOR MONITORING AND MEASURING LIQUID VOLUME IN DISPENSERS, installed at the bottom of the dispenser, and characterized by being composed of a housing that contains a compartment for the electronic circuit (PC), a weighing sensor (SP) with a weighing pan (PB); having holes in the upper part of the compartment (PC) and a bottom cover, fixed by screws; the weighing sensor (SP) is of the load cell type; the electronic circuit may have three versions of communication chips: LORA, Wi-Fi and RF433MHz; it may have two power supply options: two 1.5V AAA batteries or a 3V coin cell battery; the weighing sensor (SP) is connected to the electronic circuit, which processes the signal and sends the information via LORA radio (or Wi-Fi or RF433MHz) to a LORA concentrator (or Wi-Fi or RF), which is connected to the internet (via Wi-Fi or cable); The concentrator sends weight information to the server, where the measurement is recorded, and graphs, reports, and alerts are generated and issued; the electronic circuit transmits its battery status; and the transmission of information is carried out at pre-determined time intervals configured remotely.

Description

Technological sector of invention [001] The present invention belongs to the personal hygiene utensils sector, and refers specifically to a device attachable to the base of personal hygiene product dispensers, which allows continuous measurement of the contents, ensuring their replacement at the opportune moment and preventing product shortages, as well as detecting cases of vandalism and product theft. State of the art [002] Measuring and monitoring liquid in cleaning dispensers is a critical challenge in environments that demand high hygiene standards, such as hotels. The lack of an effective system to track cleaning product levels can result in empty dispensers, interrupting service and harming the customer experience. [003] In a large hotel, for example, the absence of an automated system to monitor liquid levels in dispensers can lead to situations where soap or disinfectant dispensers are empty. This not only compromises guest satisfaction but also affects operational efficiency. Without a precise monitoring method, the cleaning staff must perform manual checks of the dispensers, which is time-consuming and inefficient. This approach can result in waste, with products being replaced before necessary, or in shortages, with dispensers emptying for long periods without being noticed. [004] In some situations, guests attempt to remove the product from the dispenser, either by tampering with the equipment or by quickly transferring the contents to another container, thus constituting theft. Implementing a remote monitoring system allows for the immediate detection of these activities, enabling hotels to take quick and effective action. [005] Therefore, the implementation of an electronic measuring and monitoring device can solve these problems by allowing real-time monitoring of liquid levels. With automatic alerts for those responsible for cleaning, the system ensures that dispensers are refilled before they run out, optimizing product use and guaranteeing uninterrupted service continuity. New Invention Details [006] In this context, an electronic device for monitoring and measuring liquid volume in dispensers is presented, offering several advantages that directly impact operational management, customer experience, and financial efficiency in environments such as hotels and commercial establishments. Among the innovations that this device provides, the agility in managing dispensers stands out. The system sends automatic notifications when liquid levels reach predefined values, allowing proactive actions to be taken, such as replenishments, new orders, and strategic planning, preventing product shortages and ensuring service continuity. [007] Another significant advantage is the improvement in the guest experience. Continuous monitoring of product levels, with real-time alerts, ensures that dispensers in the rooms are always stocked, minimizing the possibility of essential products being out of stock, which could compromise customer satisfaction. [008] In addition, the device contributes to reducing operating costs by preventing premature replacement of dispensers and, consequently, product waste. This optimizes the use of available resources and improves the overall efficiency of the operation. [009] Optimizing cash flow and inventory is another critical advantage provided by the system. Intelligent reports identify consumption patterns and help determine the ideal time to place new purchase orders. Purchase order registration and inventory control are integrated into the system, facilitating inventory management and ensuring that products are always available when needed. [010] Finally, the device also offers an additional layer of security through vandalism detection. The system is able to identify if a dispenser has been vandalized or if the bottle has been stolen, allowing for a quick response and ensuring greater control and security in the use of the products. [011] These features make the device a complete and efficient solution for monitoring and measuring liquid volume in dispensers, bringing benefits ranging from daily operation to strategic planning and environmental safety. Description of the attached drawings [012] In order that the present invention may be fully understood and put into practice by any technician in this technological sector, it will be described in a clear, concise and sufficient manner, based on the attached drawings, which illustrate and support it, listed below: Figure 1 represents the perspective view of the device; Figure 2 represents the bottom perspective view of the device. Detailed description of the invention. [013] The device is installed at the bottom of the dispenser and consists of a housing that contains a compartment for the electronic circuit (PC), a weighing sensor (SP) with a weighing pan (PB). [014] The compartment (PC) was designed to prevent water from entering the area where the electronic circuit and batteries are located. The weighing sensor (SP) a