FAQ
How does the smart ice cream scoop count servings?
This device goes beyond simply measuring the pressure to determine the amount of ice cream served. It’s programmed to recognize the entire serving motion, so it can precisely count, record, and transmit the exact number of scoops sold.
How can an ice cream scoop be “smart”?
The system can distinguish between different motions—like cleaning the scoop or removing stuck ice cream—ensuring those actions aren’t counted as servings.
Why is this development necessary?
The ERWIN Smart Ice Cream Scoop isn’t just another tech upgrade—it’s a completely new business approach designed to give parlor owners greater control over their operations.
Where can the serving counter system be used?
It’s compatible with any type of scoop or point of sale, since every serving action has a characteristic movement pattern that the system can detect.
How does sales data tracking work?
Starting in 2025, data transmission will be internet-based, giving users access to a digital storage platform where sales information can be continuously monitored.
This not only speeds up the process but also allows for remote configuration changes and maintenance.How many scoops can be used at one location?
A single parlor can have one receiver unit, to which up to 7 scoops can be paired.
Can a scoop used at one parlor be used at another?
No. Each scoop is paired with its assigned receiver unit and only works with that specific receiver. The manufacturer can reconfigure both the scoops and receiver units, but this isn’t possible at the user level to prevent misuse.
How are the scoops charged?
The scoops must be charged using a low-voltage (5V DC) charger, with a cable featuring a micro USB connector – the same kind commonly used for many smartphones and tablets.
Charging from a COMPUTER or other electronic device is strictly FORBIDDEN.How long does it take to fully charge the scoops?
Completely depleted scoops can be fully charged in about 1-2 hours.
How long do the scoops run on a full charge?
Depending on usage, a fully charged scoop will last an entire day, so charging once daily—such as at the end of a shift or overnight—is sufficient.
Can you check the battery level of the scoops?
When transmitting data, the scoops send not only the number of scoops served but also their battery status to the receiver and then to the server—so you can check it anytime. If the battery gets low during use, the scoop will flash orange when picked up.
What is the expected lifespan of the scoops?
This is a new product, so we don’t have long-term usage data yet. However, since the only aging component is a smartwatch battery, you can expect a lifespan similar to that of smartwatches.
What happens if communication between the receiver and scoops fails?
The scoops handle the counting themselves. If data transfer fails, the scoop continues counting, and the counted values are updated in the receiver with the next successful transmission.
What happens if the receiver cannot connect to the server?
The receiver tries to forward data from the scoops to the server as soon as it’s received, while also saving it in its internal memory every hour. If a particular hour’s data has not yet been transmitted, it will be sent as soon as the connection is restored.
How quickly do the counted data appear on the server?
As long as the scoops are in motion, their main job is to count. Once a scoop has been idle for at least 20 seconds, it sends the collected data to the receiver and goes into sleep mode. When there’s a live server connection, these data typically appear on the server within 4-5 minutes.
How much data can the receiver unit store?
The receiver’s memory holds the last month’s worth of data, continuously overwriting the oldest records.
What type of adapter is required for the receiver unit?
The same type of adapter used to charge the scoops is needed for the receiver. Ideally, use a multi-output adapter—one output powers the receiver, while the others can charge the scoops.
Powering from a COMPUTER or any other electronic device is strictly FORBIDDEN.What happens during a power outage?
Because the scoops perform all counting and run on batteries, counting continues as normal. When power is restored, the data is automatically transferred to the receiver and server.
What if the receiver box is unpowered for several days?
For communication with the scoops, the receiver must be powered on—and it also needs accurate time and date information received from the server. The receiver retains these time settings and continues tracking for several days without power. After power returns, it resumes normal operation. If the outage lasts longer, the receiver will first synchronize time with the server before reconnecting to the scoops.
How well do the scoops handle moisture?
Unlike traditional scoops, these have an electronic circuit in the handle. The scoop head—the part that contacts the ice cream—is waterproof and washable. However, the electronics compartment in the handle is only splash-resistant; it can be wiped down with a damp cloth and withstands splashes, but must not be immersed, washed in a dishwasher, or rinsed under running water.
What happens if water gets into the charging port?
The charging port is rated IPX7, meaning it is fully sealed and no water can reach the circuit, even if the inside of the port gets wet. Still, make sure the connector is completely dry before charging.
What if the scoop is dropped?
In most cases, dropping won’t damage the scoop or electronics. However, a fall on the corner may cause the electronics casing to detach due to strong impact. If this happens, return it to the manufacturer for repair—the electronics can be reattached.
Where should the receiver unit be placed?
The receiver can sit on any horizontal surface, such as a counter, or be wall-mounted using brackets. The key is to place it within a few meters of where the scoops are used, ensure it isn’t blocked, and protect it from moisture.
How do you connect the receiver to the internet?
Connect the receiver to the local network using a standard UTP cable (CAT5 or better). The receiver uses dynamic IP addressing (DHCP) and accesses the server via DNS—so your local network must support these functions. If fixed IP settings are needed, provide the required information to the vendor after ordering.
What should you keep in mind when transporting the scoops?
Because the scoops are activated by motion, they may turn on during transport—draining the battery as if they were in use. After long-distance shipping, it’s wise to recharge them. Short trips generally don’t significantly affect charge level.
How do the scoops count servings?
The scoops monitor their position in space and time, as well as the status of the separating blade. Based on these factors, they determine which action is performed—which in turn triggers the scoop count.
What if the blade doesn’t cut the scoop on the first try and is pressed multiple times?
You can press the blade multiple times to release the serving if needed—the scoop will only count it once.
Could using a scoop washer result in a miscount?
No. Repeated use of the scoop washer with the blade in its default position won’t cause any extra counts.
Can operating the blade without ice cream cause errors?
Yes. The scoop does not analyze actual ice cream content—so motions resembling a serving action, even without ice cream, will be counted.
Can a dead battery cause a loss of count?
Yes. Without power, the scoop cannot count. However, the device warns you in advance when the battery is low, so you can either charge it or switch to another scoop on time. Since a full charge covers a full day of operation and charge status is logged on the server hourly, it’s easy to spot and avoid potential data loss due to an uncharged scoop.