System and method for automatically grading used electronic devices

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for automatically grading user devices that can include: (1) a lighting element positioned at an angle relative to a platform; (2) an imaging device positioned at an angle relative to the platform such that light emitted from the lighting element and a field of view of the imaging device form a right angle where the light emitted from the lighting element and the field of view of the imaging device intersect at the user device when the user device is positioned in a predetermined position on the platform; and (3) control circuitry that can activate the lighting elements and direct the imaging device to capture an image of a screen of the user device while the user device is in the predetermined position and illuminated by a first lighting element, and analyze the image to determine whether the screen is damaged.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 957,795, filed on January 6, 2020, entitled "SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AUTOMATICALLY GRADING PRE - OWNED ELECTRONIC DEVICES". U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 957,795 is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety as if fully set forth herein.

[0002] The present invention generally relates to grading pre - owned electronic devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to systems and methods for automatically grading pre - owned electronic devices.

Background Art

[0003] Known systems and methods for grading pre - owned electronic devices use manual labor to inspect, classify, and grade pre - owned electronic devices for resale or recycling. However, the extensive use of such manual labor can be costly, slow, and inaccurate. In addition, such known systems and methods often fail to capture high - quality and / or standardized images of pre - owned electronic devices, which can prolong and frustrate customer quality disputes.

[0004] In view of the above, there is a need and an opportunity for improved systems and methods.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0005] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram of a multi - stage automatic assembly line system according to the disclosed embodiment. [Figure 2] A schematic diagram of a portion of a multi - stage automatic assembly line system according to the disclosed embodiment. [Figure 3]This is a schematic diagram of a portion of a multi-stage automated assembly line system according to the disclosed embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram of a screen damage detection system according to the disclosed embodiment. [Figure 5] These are perspective and partial transparency views of the screen damage detection system according to the disclosed embodiment. [Figure 6] These are perspective and partial transparency views of the screen damage detection system according to the disclosed embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a diagram of the overhead conveyor belt lighting in a screen damage detection system according to the disclosed embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a diagram of an imaging device in a screen damage detection system according to a disclosed embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a diagram of the downward conveyor belt lighting in a screen damage detection system according to the disclosed embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a diagram of the downward conveyor belt lighting in a screen damage detection system according to the disclosed embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a diagram of a user device located on a conveyor belt and above the lower conveyor belt lighting in a screen damage detection system according to a disclosed embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a diagram of the overhead conveyor belt lighting in a screen damage detection system according to the disclosed embodiment. [Figure 13] This is a schematic diagram of a back-side defect detection system according to the disclosed embodiment. [Figure 14] This is a schematic diagram of a side defect detection system according to the disclosed embodiment. [Figure 15] This is a schematic diagram of a screen defect detection system according to the disclosed embodiment. [Figure 16] These are perspective and partial perspective views of a screen defect detection system according to the disclosed embodiment. [Figure 17] This is a flowchart of the method according to the disclosed embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0006] While many different embodiments of the present invention are possible, specific embodiments are described in detail herein, with the understanding that this disclosure should be considered as illustrative of the principles of the present invention. The present invention is not intended to be limited to any particular illustrated embodiment.

[0007] Embodiments disclosed herein may include, for example, systems and methods for automatically grading used electronic devices such as mobile phones or other user devices. As shown in Figure 1, in some embodiments, the systems and methods disclosed herein may include a multi-stage automated assembly line system 100 capable of classifying and grading used electronic devices.

[0008] As also shown in Figure 1, in some embodiments, the multi-stage automatic assembly line system 100 may include multiple assembly line stations, systems, and / or devices for performing one or more tasks to grade used electronic devices. For example, in some embodiments, a first station 102 of the multiple assembly line stations may scan a barcode, QR code (registered trademark), etc., associated with one of the used electronic devices 104; a second station 106 of the multiple assembly line stations may identify the model ID of one of the used electronic devices 104; a third station 108 of the multiple assembly line stations may grade one of the screen and / or camera of one of the used electronic devices 104; a fourth station 110 of the multiple assembly line stations may grade one of the back and / or side of one of the used electronic devices 104; and a classification station 111 of the multiple assembly line stations may distribute one of the used electronic devices 104 to one of the multiple output stations 112 based on the evaluations of some or all of the multiple assembly line stations.

[0009] Various systems and methods are conceived for moving used electronic devices through a multi-stage automated assembly line system 100. For example, in some embodiments, a conveyor belt, as known in the art, can move used electronic devices through the multi-stage automated assembly line system 100, and in some embodiments, a movable tote can move used electronic devices through the multi-stage automated assembly line system 100.

[0010] As described above, the first station 102 may, for example, use a scanning device to scan a barcode or another electronic identifier associated with one of the used electronic devices 104. Once the barcode or other electronic identifier is scanned, a control circuit 114 of the multi-stage automated assembly line system 100, which communicates with the first station 102, may identify and load preliminary information associated with one of the used electronic devices 104 from the barcode or other electronic identifier. In some embodiments, the preliminary information associated with one of the used electronic devices 104 may include the manufacturer of one of the used electronic devices 104, a customer ID associated with one of the used electronic devices 104, usage data for one of the used electronic devices 104, a model of one of the used electronic devices 104, a provisional grade for one of the used electronic devices 104, and / or other types of information known or desired by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, in some embodiments, other stations of the multiple assembly line stations may then add to and / or augment the preliminary information associated with one of the used electronic devices 104. For example, in some embodiments, in response to a first station 102 scanning a barcode or other electronic identifier, the control circuit 114 can generate a database entry in the database that initially includes preliminary information associated with one of the used electronic devices 104, i.e., preliminary information identified from the barcode or other electronic identifier, and other stations in a plurality of assembly line stations can store additional information associated with one of the used electronic devices 104 in the database entries.

[0011] As described above, the second station 106 can identify one model ID of the used electronic device 104. For example, in some embodiments, a control circuit 114 communicating with the second station 106 can use preliminary information associated with one of the used electronic devices 104 to identify one manufacturer and / or model of the used electronic device 104, and in response, identify a set of possible options for one model ID of the used electronic device 104.

[0012] Various embodiments are contemplated for identifying a single manufacturer, model, and / or model ID of a used electronic device 104. For example, in some embodiments, a first station 102 or a second station 106 may include an imaging device 116 capable of capturing a first image of the used electronic device 104, and a control circuit 114 may process the first image of the used electronic device 104 to identify a single manufacturer, model, and / or model ID of the used electronic device 104. In some embodiments, the control circuit 114 can compare one first image of a used electronic device 104 with a first set of pre-stored reference images whose manufacturer, model, and / or model ID are known, identify one of the first set of pre-stored reference images that best matches one first image of a used electronic device 104, and assign to one of the used electronic devices 104 the manufacturer, model, and / or model ID associated with one of the pre-stored reference images that best matches one first image of a used electronic device 104.

[0013] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the control circuit 114 can analyze a first image of the used electronic device 104 to identify one visual identification detail of the used electronic device 104, such as one size of the used electronic device 104, one screen location of the used electronic device 104, and the location and size of other elements of the used electronic device 104, such as a camera and buttons. The control circuit 114 can then compare the visual identification details with the identification information of a known electronic device to identify one manufacturer, model, and / or model ID of the used electronic device 104.

[0014] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the control circuit 114 may run a device recognition artificial intelligence ("AI") program or algorithm to identify the manufacturer, model, and / or model ID of a used electronic device 104. For example, in training mode, the device recognition AI program or algorithm may be trained to identify used electronic devices by, for example, providing it with captured images, sensor scan data, and / or identification information of known electronic devices, and in response, positive and negative feedback may be provided for the device identification performed by the device recognition AI program or algorithm. Based on the positive and negative feedback, the device recognition AI program or algorithm may develop rules and heuristics that can be used to identify one manufacturer, model, and / or model ID of a used electronic device 104 when operating outside of training mode.

[0015] As described above, the third station 108 can grade one screen and / or camera of the used electronic device 104 by determining, for example, whether one screen and / or camera of the used electronic device 104 is cracked or to what extent it is cracked. In some embodiments, the control circuit 114 communicating with the third station 108 uses one of the used electronic devices 104 and preliminary information associated with the manufacturer, model, and / or model ID of one of the used electronic devices 104 to grade one screen and / or camera of the used electronic device 104. For example, in some embodiments, the control circuit 114 uses the manufacturer, model, and / or model ID of one of the used electronic devices 104 to send instructions to the third station 108 or positioning elements therein to position the lighting element 118 and the imaging device 120 associated with the third station 108 and adjust the parameters of the lighting element 118 and the imaging device 120, whereby any crack in the lens of one screen and / or camera of the used electronic device 104 can be identified without powering on one of the used electronic devices 104, and the area of one of the used electronic devices 104 imaged by the imaging device 120 can be limited to only the area necessary to identify such a crack.

[0016] Various embodiments of the illuminating element 118 are contemplated. For example, in some embodiments, the illuminating element 118 may include an ultraviolet light-emitting element. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the illuminating element 118 may include a non-ultraviolet illuminating element that can be used independently or in association with the ultraviolet light-emitting element. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the illuminating element 118 may include a plurality of, for example, three separate optical elements with variable intensity that can be adjusted by the control circuit 114 based on one manufacturer, model, and / or model ID of a used electronic device 104. For example, the first element of the illuminating element 118 may include a large planar illuminating element positioned at the angle closest to the first end into which one of the used electronic devices 104 enters the third station 108, relative to a section of a conveyor belt or movable tote in the third station 108. Next, a second element of the illuminating element 118 can be positioned below the conveyor belt or movable tote, and may have a width greater than the conveyor belt or movable tote, and may be used to illuminate one of the used electronic devices 104 from below, in these embodiments the conveyor belt or movable tote may be at least partially transparent. Finally, a third element of the illuminating element 118 may be closer perpendicular to the conveyor belt or movable tote than the first element of the illuminating element 118 located at the opposite end of the third station 108 from the first element of the illuminating element 118.

[0017] In some embodiments, different configurations and numbers of illuminating elements 118 can be employed in the third station 108. For example, in some embodiments, the physical configuration, optical properties, and timing characteristics of the illuminating elements 118 can be modified and optimized for use in relation to different screen types of used electronic devices, such as LED screens, to facilitate optimized accuracy, e.g., accuracy exceeding 98%, when grading one screen of a used electronic device 104. In particular, the control circuit 114 can compensate for and optimize the polarization pattern, refractive anomalies, exposure rate, and speed of the illuminating elements 118 to increase productivity when identifying cracks in LED and LCD screens.

[0018] Various embodiments are contemplated for grading one screen and / or camera of a used electronic device 104. For example, in some embodiments, the imaging device 120 can capture a second image of one of the used electronic devices 104 while the illumination element 118 irradiates one of the used electronic devices 104, and the control circuit 114 can process the second image of one of the used electronic devices 104 to identify cracks in one screen or camera lens of the used electronic device 104. In some embodiments, the control circuit 114 can compare a second image of one of the used electronic devices 104 with a second series of pre-stored reference images whose manufacturer, model, and / or model ID match the manufacturer, model, and / or model ID of one of the used electronic devices 104. In these embodiments, each of the second series of pre-stored reference images can include a cracked screen, a cracked camera lens, an uncracked screen, an uncracked camera lens, and combinations thereof. Based on such comparison, the control circuit 114 can identify one of the second series of pre-stored reference images that most closely matches the second image of one of the used electronic devices 104, and grade one screen and / or camera of the used electronic device 104 based on how closely the second image of one of the used electronic devices 104 matches different reference images of the second series of pre-stored reference images.

[0019] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the control circuit 114 can analyze a second image of one of the used electronic devices 104 to identify visual characteristics that match cracks in one screen and / or camera lens of the used electronic device 104. Then, the control circuit 114 can compare the visual characteristics with stored information indicating cracks in the screen and / or camera lens to identify whether and to what extent one screen and / or camera lens of the used electronic device 104 is cracked, and grade one screen and / or camera of the used electronic device 104 based thereon.

[0020] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the control circuit 114 may run a screen grading AI program or algorithm to grade one screen and / or camera of a used electronic device 104. For example, in training mode, the screen grading AI program or algorithm can be trained to identify scratches and corresponding grades in a used electronic device by providing it with captured images, sensor scan data, and / or identification information of known electronic devices with cracked screens and / or camera lenses of various grades and different combinations and degrees, and in response, positive and negative feedback of the screen and camera grades assigned by the screen grading AI program or algorithm can be provided. Based on the positive and negative feedback, the screen grading AI program or algorithm can develop rules and heuristics that can be used to grade one screen and / or camera of a used electronic device 104 when operating outside of training mode.

[0021] Additionally or alternatively, a third station 108 may grade one screen and / or camera of a used electronic device 104 based on the amount of visible wear identified on one front of the used electronic device 104, which is different from or less than a complete crack among the cracks on one screen and / or camera lens of the used electronic device 104.

[0022] As described above, the fourth station 110 can grade the rear and / or side of one of the used electronic devices 104. In some embodiments, one of the used electronic devices 104 can be rotated so that, as a result, one of the used electronic devices 104 is at the first station 102, the second station 106, and / or the third station 104 when its rear is facing one direction, such as downward, and while one of the used electronic devices 104 is at the fourth station 110, its rear is facing a second direction, such as upward, which is opposite to the first direction. Thus, in some embodiments, a control circuit 114 communicating with the fourth station 110 can grade the rear and / or side of one of the used electronic devices 104 using preliminary information associated with one of the used electronic devices 104, as well as the manufacturer, model, and / or model ID of one of the used electronic devices 104. For example, in some embodiments, the control circuit 114 may use the manufacturer, model, and / or model ID of a used electronic device 104 to send a command to a fourth station 110 or a positioning element within it to position an imaging device 122 associated with the fourth station 110, thereby limiting the area of ​​the used electronic device 104 imaged by the imaging device 122 to only the area required for such grading.

[0023] Various embodiments are contemplated for grading one rear and / or side of a used electronic device 104. For example, in some embodiments, an imaging device 122 can capture one third image of the used electronic device 104, and a control circuit 114 can process one third image of the used electronic device 104. In some embodiments, the control circuit 114 can compare one third image of the used electronic device 104 with a third set of pre-stored reference images whose manufacturer, model, and / or model ID matches one manufacturer, model, and / or model ID of the used electronic device 104, in these embodiments, each of the third set of pre-stored reference images may include varying degrees of wear or other cosmetic damage. Based on such comparisons, the control circuit 114 can identify one of a third set of pre-stored reference images that best matches one third image of the used electronic device 104, and can grade one back and / or side of the used electronic device 104 based on how closely one third image of the used electronic device 104 matches a different reference image from the third set of pre-stored reference images. In some embodiments, the imaging device 122 can capture one image of one back of the used electronic device 104 and another image of one side of the used electronic device 104, either alone or using multiple imaging devices communicating with it.

[0024] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the control circuit 114 can analyze a third image of the used electronic device 104 to identify visual characteristics that match cosmetic damage such as cracks, dents, and / or scratches. The control circuit 114 can then compare the visual characteristics with stored information showing the back and / or sides of the used electronic device with cosmetic damage to determine whether and to what extent one of the back and / or sides of the used electronic device 104 contains cosmetic damage, and based on that, one of the back and / or sides of the used electronic device 104 can be graded.

[0025] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the control circuit 114 may run a back and side grading AI program or algorithm to grade the cosmetic damage to one back and / or side of a used electronic device 104. For example, in training mode, the back and side grading AI program or algorithm can be trained to identify cosmetic damage and corresponding grades in a used electronic device by, for example, providing the back and side grading AI program or algorithm with captured images, sensor scan data, and / or identification information of known electronic devices with various grades and different combinations and degrees of cosmetic damage, and in response, positive and negative feedback of the back and side grades assigned by the back and side grading AI program or algorithm can be provided. Based on the positive and negative feedback, the screen grading AI program or algorithm can develop rules and heuristics that can be used to grade one back and / or side of a used electronic device 104 when operating outside of training mode.

[0026] In some embodiments, any image captured by the multi-stage automated assembly line system 100 can be stored for future use in customer disputes. For example, in some embodiments, the control circuit 114 can store a first image of the used electronic device 104 captured at the first station 102 or the second station 104, a second image of the used electronic device 104 captured at the third station 108, and / or a third image of the used electronic device 104 captured at the fourth station 110 in a database entry generated by the first station 102.

[0027] As described above, the classification station 111 can deliver one of the used electronic devices 104 to one of the multiple output stations 112 based on evaluations at or from the first station 102, the second station 106, the third station 108, and the fourth station 110. For example, the multiple output stations 112 may include (1) a first output station for used electronic devices that require polishing or buffering, (2) a second output station for used electronic devices that require repair, (3) a third output station for used electronic devices that fall under certain exceptions, (4) a fourth output station for used electronic devices that require return, (5) a fifth output station for used electronic devices that require recycling, and / or (6) other output stations for used electronic devices that have been assigned any of the A+, A, B, and C grades.

[0028] Although the control circuit 114 is shown separately and spaced apart from the other elements of the multi-stage automatic assembly line system 100 in the figure, it should be understood that the control circuit 118 can be integrated with and / or otherwise communicate with the other elements of the multi-stage automatic assembly line system 100, thereby enabling control and / or commands of the other elements of the multi-stage automatic assembly line system 100 to perform the methods described herein.

[0029] In this regard, the first station 102, the second station 106, the third station 108, the fourth station 110, the classification station 111, and their various sub-components can be controlled by a single central processor or multiple processors coupled together. For example, each of the first station 102, the second station 106, the third station 108, the fourth station 110, the classification station 111, and their various sub-components may include their respective transmitting and receiving devices and their respective memory devices, each of which may communicate with its respective control circuit, e.g., control circuit 114, one or more respective programmable processors, and its respective executable control software, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. In some embodiments, the executable control software of each of the first station 102, the second station 106, the third station 108, the fourth station 110, the classification station 111, and its various sub-components may be stored in their respective temporary or non-temporary computer-readable media, including but not limited to local computer memory, RAM, optical storage media, magnetic storage media, flash memory, etc. Some or all of the control circuits, programmable processors, and executable control software of each of the first station 102, the second station 106, the third station 108, the fourth station 110, the classification station 111, and its various sub-components may perform and control at least some of the methods described herein.

[0030] Figures 2 and 3 are schematic diagrams of another system 200 that can classify and grade used electronic devices such as user devices 202. As seen in Figures 2 and 3, system 200 may include an inflow system 204, a grading and classification system 206, a control circuit 208, and a platform 210 that can transport user devices 202 through system 200.

[0031] As can be seen in Figure 2, in some embodiments, the inflow system 204 may include a sensor 212, for example, a photoelectric sensor, an imaging device 214, a first section 216 of the platform 210, a second section 218 of the platform 210, and a third section 220 of the platform 210. In some embodiments, the second section 218 may be located between the first section 216 and the third section 220 so that the sensor 212 is located at the end of the first section 216, close to the second section 218, and a gap 222 can be located between the second section 218 and the third section 220 and within the field of view of the imaging device 214. In some embodiments, the gap 222 may be about 1.27 cm (about 0.5 inches), and in some embodiments, the first section 216, the second section 218, and the third section 220 may include separate conveyor belts. In some embodiments, the user device 202 may include a data matrix label located externally, in which case the imaging device 214 can scan the data matrix label to identify the user device 202 to the control circuit 208.

[0032] As shown in Figure 3, in some embodiments, the grading and classification system 206 may include a screen damage detection system 224, a back defect detection system 226, a side defect detection system 228, a screen defect detection system 230, a positioning device 232, such as a robotic arm, and a first final position 234, a second final position 236, a third final position 238, and a fourth final position 240. In some embodiments, the first final position 234 may be dedicated to user devices having a damaged screen, the second final position 236 may be dedicated to user devices having a defective back or a defective side, the third final position 238 may be dedicated to user devices having a defective screen, and the fourth final position 240 may be dedicated to undamaged and defect-free user devices. However, in some embodiments, the second final position 236 may be dedicated to user devices having only a defective back, and in these embodiments, the grading and classification system 206 may also include a fifth final position dedicated to user devices having a defective side.

[0033] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the screen damage detection system 224 according to a disclosed embodiment, and Figures 5-12 are other diagrams of the screen damage detection system 224 according to a disclosed embodiment. As seen in Figures 4-8, in some embodiments the screen damage detection system 224 may include an illumination element 242, e.g., ELF infrared (IR) light, and an imaging device 244, both of which may be located within a housing 250. In some embodiments the orientation of the illumination element 242 may be positioned relative to the platform 210, for example, at an angle A above the platform 210, and the orientation of the imaging device 244 may be positioned relative to the platform, for example, at an angle A above the platform 210, so that the light emitted from the illumination element 242 and the field of view of the imaging device 244 may form a right angle 246 where the light emitted from the illumination element 242 and the field of view of the imaging device 244 intersect at the user device 202 when the user device 202 is positioned in a predetermined position within the screen damage detection system 224.

[0034] As seen in Figures 4, 7, and 9-11, in some embodiments the screen damage detection system 224 may also include an illumination element 248, such as a spectral IR light, which may be located outside the housing 250. In particular, in some embodiments the illumination element 248 may be located beneath the platform 210, in which case a portion of the platform 210 may be at least partially transparent to allow light emitted from the illumination element 248 to pass through the platform 210 and illuminate the user device 202 from beneath the platform 210.

[0035] As shown in Figure 12, in some embodiments, the screen damage detection system 224 may also include an illuminating element 252, such as an ELF LED light, located within the housing 250 and opposite the first illuminating element 242. In some embodiments, the third illuminating element 252 may be closer perpendicular to the platform 210 than the illuminating element 242.

[0036] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of a back defect detection system 226 according to a disclosed embodiment. As shown in Figure 13, the back defect detection system 226 may include a positioning device 232 for positioning and oriented a user device 202 within the back defect detection system 226, an illumination element 252, and an imaging device 254, for example, a line scanning camera. For example, the illumination element 252 may be positioned at an angle B with respect to some other surface, such as the ground 255 or one parallel to the ground 225, and the imaging device 254 may be positioned at an angle B with respect to the ground 255 or other surface, so that the light emitted from the illumination element 252 and the field of view of the imaging device 254 intersect at a right angle 256 in the user device 202 when the user device 202 is positioned in a predetermined position in the back defect detection system 226 with a predetermined orientation. In some embodiments, the predetermined orientation may include the back of the user device 202 facing the imaging device 254.

[0037] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of a side defect detection system 228 according to a disclosed embodiment. As shown in Figure 14, the side defect detection system 228 may include an illumination element 258, for example, a see-through bar light of an inline controller, and an imaging device 260, for example, a line scanning camera, which may be installed on one side of the illumination element 258, on the opposite side of the illumination element 258, close to the user device 202. In some embodiments, the imaging device 260 may include a telecentric lens, in which the imaging device may be moved closer to the illumination element 258 and away from the illumination element 258 to capture an image of the user device 202.

[0038] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of the screen defect detection system 230 according to a disclosed embodiment, and Figure 16 is another diagram of the screen defect detection system 230 according to a disclosed embodiment. As seen in Figure 15, in some embodiments, the screen defect detection station 230 may include an illumination element 262, e.g., an ELF LED light, which can be positioned at an angle C with respect to the platform 210, and an imaging device 264, e.g., a line scanning camera, which can be positioned at an angle C with respect to the platform 210, so that the light emitted from the illumination element 262 and the field of view of the imaging device 264 can form a right angle 266 at the user device 202 when the user device 202 is positioned in a predetermined location within the screen defect detection system 230. Additionally or alternatively, as seen in Figure 16, in some embodiments, the screen defect detection system 230 may include an illumination element 270, which can be oriented parallel to the platform 210 so that the light emitted from the illumination element 270 is perpendicular to the platform 210.

[0039] Although the control circuit 208 is shown separately and apart from the other elements of system 200, it should be understood that the control circuit 208 can be integrated with and / or otherwise communicate with the other elements of system 200, thereby controlling and / or commanding the other elements of system 200 to perform the methods described herein.

[0040] In this regard, the inflow system 204, the grading and classification system 206, the platform 210, and their various sub-components can be controlled by a single central processor or multiple processors coupled together. For example, each of the inflow system 204, the grading and classification system 206, the platform 210, and their various sub-components may include their respective transmitting and receiving devices and their respective memory devices, each of which can communicate with its respective control circuit, e.g., control circuit 208, one or more respective programmable processors, and its respective executable control software, as understood by those skilled in the art. In some embodiments, the executable control software of each of the inflow system 204, the grading and classification system 206, the platform 210, and its various sub-components may be stored in their respective temporary or non-temporary computer-readable media, including but not limited to local computer memory, RAM, optical storage media, magnetic storage media, flash memory, etc. Some or all of the control circuits, programmable processors, and executable control software of each of the inflow system 204, the grading and classification system 206, the platform 210, and its various sub-components may perform and control at least some of the methods described herein.

[0041] Figure 17 is a flowchart of Method 300 according to a disclosed embodiment. As shown in Figure 17, Method 300 may include, as shown in 302, starting the inflow system 204; as shown in 304, detecting the user device 202 with the sensor 212; and as shown in 306, a control circuit 208 that controls the speed of the first section 216 and the second section 218 to equally space the user device 202 from other user devices in the system 200.

[0042] Method 300 may then include a control circuit 208 that scans the user device 202 using an imaging device 214 to identify the user device 202 to the control circuit 208, as in 308. In some embodiments, identifying the user device 202 to the control circuit 208 may include the control circuit 208 receiving any information that identifies the manufacturer and model of the user device 202, and the control circuit 208 generating a database entry for the user device 202 in which the appearance grade of the user device 202 can be stored.

[0043] After scanning the user device 202, method 300 may include, as in 310, having the control circuit 208 activate a third section 220 to transport the user device 202 to the screen damage detection system 224. Then, as in 312, method 300 may include having the control circuit 208 (1) activate illuminating element 242 and simultaneously activate illuminating element 248, and (2) instruct the imaging device 244 to capture a first image of the screen of the user device 202 while the user device 202 is in a predetermined position in the screen damage detection system 224 and illuminated by illuminating elements 242 and 248.

[0044] After capturing a first image of the screen of the user device 202, method 300 may include, as in 314, having the control circuit 208 analyze the first image of the screen of the user device 202 to determine whether the screen of the user device 202 is damaged. For example, in some embodiments, the control circuit 208 may determine that the screen of the user device 202 is damaged if the control circuit 208 identifies a predetermined number of cracks or more on the screen of the user device 202 depicted in the first image of the user device 202. If the control circuit 208 determines that the screen of the user device 202 is damaged, method 300 may include, as in 316, having the control circuit 208 assign the lowest appearance grade to the user device 202 and instruct the platform 210 to move the user device 202 to a first final position 234. For example, in some embodiments, the control circuit 208 may instruct the first pushing device to push the user device 202 onto a conveyor belt associated with a first final position 234 after the user device 202 has left the screen damage detection system 224.

[0045] However, if the control circuit 208 does not determine that the screen of the user device is damaged, method 300 may include, as in 318, instructing the control circuit 208 to position the positioning device 232 in a predetermined orientation within the back defect detection system 226. Then, method 300 may include, as in 320, instructing the control circuit 208 to activate the illumination element 252 and to instruct the imaging device 254 to capture an image of the back of the user device 202 while the user device 202 is in a predetermined position within the back defect detection system 226 and illuminated by the illumination element 252. In some embodiments, method 300 may include the control circuit 208 instructing the positioning device 232 to move the center of the user device 202 toward or away from the vertex 256 in order to ensure optimal image clarity while acquiring the image of the back of the user device 202.

[0046] Before and after the user device 202 is in the rear defect detection system 226, Method 300 may include the control circuit 208 instructing the positioning device 232 to position the user device 202 in the side defect detection system 228, as in 321; (2) activating the illumination element 258; and (3) instructing the positioning device 252 to rotate all sides of the user device 202 so that they pass through the field of view of the imaging device 260 and the light emitted by the illumination element 258 in the side defect detection system 228, as in 322. During such rotation, Method 300 may include the control circuit 208 instructing the imaging device 260 to acquire images of the sides of the user device 202 while the user device 202 is illuminated by the illumination element 258, as in 324.

[0047] Immediately after or some time after capturing images of the back and sides of the user device 202, method 300 may include, as in 326, having the control circuit 208 analyze the images of the back and sides of the user device 202 to determine whether there is a defect on the back and / or any side of the user device 202. For example, in some embodiments, the control circuit 208 may determine that there is a defect on the back or side of the user device 202 if the control circuit 202 identifies a certain amount or more of cracks or scratches on the back of the user device 202 as depicted in the back image of the user device, or on the side of the user device 202 as depicted in the side image of the user device. If the control circuit 208 determines that there is a defect on the back of the user device 202 or on any side of the user device 202, method 300 may include, as in 328, having the control circuit assign the lowest appearance grade to the user device 202 and instructing the platform to move the user device 202 to a second final position 236 and / or a fifth final position. For example, in some embodiments, the control circuit 208 may instruct a second pushing device to push the user device 202 onto the conveyor belt associated with the second final position 236 and / or the fifth final position after the user device 202 has left the back defect detection system 226 and the side defect detection system 228.

[0048] However, if the control circuit 208 does not determine that there is a defect on the back of the user device 202 or on any side of the user device 202, method 300 may include, as in 330, having the control circuit 208 instruct the platform 210 to transport the user device 202 to the screen defect detection system 230.

[0049] After transporting the user device 202 to the screen defect detection system 230, method 300 may include, as in 332, instructing the control circuit 208 to activate the illumination element 262 and to instruct the imaging device 264 to capture a second image of the screen of the user device 202 while the user device 202 is in a predetermined position within the screen defect detection system 230 and illuminated by the illumination element 264. Method 300 may then include, as in 334, instructing the control circuit 300 to analyze the second image of the screen of the user device 202 to determine whether the screen of the user device 202 is defective. For example, in some embodiments, the control circuit 208 may determine that the screen of the user device 202 is defective if the control circuit 202 identifies a predetermined number of scratches on the screen of the user device 202 depicted in either the first or second image of the user device 202. If the control circuit 208 determines that the screen of the user device 202 is defective, method 300 may include, as in 336, having the control circuit 208 assign an intermediate appearance grade to the user device 202 and instructing the platform 210 to move the user device 202 to a third final position 238. For example, in some embodiments, the control circuit 208 may instruct a third pushing device to push the user device 202 onto a conveyor belt associated with the third final position 238 after the user device 202 has left the screen defect detection system 230. However, if the control circuit 208 does not determine that the screen of the user device 202 is defective, method 300 may include, as in 338, having the control circuit assign the best appearance grade to the user device 202 and instructing the platform 210 to move the user device 202 to a fourth final position 240.

[0050] In some embodiments, the grading and classification system 206 does not need to include a screen defect detection station 230. In these embodiments, if the control circuit 202 does not determine that the screen of the user device 202 is damaged, the method 300 may include the control circuit 208 re-analyzing a first image of the screen of the user device 202 to determine whether the screen is defective.

[0051] In some embodiments, before instructing imaging devices 244, 254, 260, and / or 264 to capture the identified images described above, Method 300 may also include instructing control circuit 208 to adjust its various parameters to some or all of the imaging devices in order to obtain the highest possible quality images. For example, in some embodiments, the various parameters may include line acquisition rate, exposure, brightness, and contrast, and control circuit 208 may identify optimal values ​​for those parameters based on the color of the user device 202 and the speed at which the user device 202 is moving relative to each of the imaging devices 244, 254, 260, and 264. In these embodiments, System 200 may include an encoder that can identify the speed of the user device 202 using position data transmitted to control circuit 208, and a device color sensor that can identify the color of the user device 202 using RGB value data transmitted to control circuit 208.

[0052] Although the multi-stage automated assembly line systems 100 and 200 are shown in separate drawings and described as separate embodiments, it should be understood that any and all stations, systems, devices, or other components of the multi-stage automated assembly line system 100 can be used in relation to system 200, and any and all stations, systems, devices, or other components of system 200 can be used in relation to the multi-stage automated assembly line system 100. Therefore, it should be understood that the multi-stage automated assembly line system 100 can perform some or all of method 300. For example, as a specific but non-limiting example, the first station 102 and the second station 106 of the multi-stage automated assembly line system 100 can identify the user device 202, as in 308. As another specific but non-limiting example, the third station 108 of the multi-stage automated assembly line system 100 can determine whether the screen of the user device 202 is damaged or defective, as in 314 and 334, and the fourth station 110 of the multi-stage automated assembly line system 100 can determine whether the back or side of the user device 202 is defective, as in 326.

[0053] While several embodiments are described in detail above, other variations are possible. For example, the logical flow described above does not require the specific order or sequential sequence described to achieve the desired result. Other steps may be provided, steps may be excluded from the described flow, other components may be added to the described system, or removed from the described system. Other embodiments may be within the scope of the present invention.

[0054] From the above, it will be observed that numerous modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. It should be understood that no limitations are intended or should be assumed with respect to any particular system or method described herein. Naturally, it is intended to cover all such variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention. [Item 1] It is a system, A first lighting element positioned at a first angle to the platform, An imaging device in a fixed position, wherein the field axis, which is the axis of the field of view formed by the imaging device, is positioned at a second angle with respect to the platform, and the second angle is the same as the first angle, such that when the user device is stationary and positioned at a predetermined position on the platform, the light emitted from the first illumination element in the direction of the optical axis formed by the first illumination element and the field axis of the imaging device intersect at a right angle in the user device, A system comprising a control circuit that activates the first illumination element, instructs the imaging device to capture an image of the screen of the user device while the user device is in the predetermined position and illuminated by the first illumination element, and analyzes the image to determine whether the screen is damaged. [Item 2] Further equipped with a second lighting element, The first lighting element is positioned above the platform, The second lighting element is located below the platform, The system according to item 1, wherein the control circuit operates the second illuminating element simultaneously with the first illuminating element, and instructs the imaging device to capture the image while the user device is in the predetermined position and illuminated by the first and second illuminating elements. [Item 3] The system according to item 1, wherein if the control circuit determines that the screen is damaged, the control circuit assigns a lower appearance rating to the user device and instructs the platform to move the user device to a first final position dedicated to user devices having a damaged screen. [Item 4] The system according to item 3, wherein if the control circuit does not determine that the screen is damaged, the control circuit analyzes the image to determine whether the screen is defective, and if the control circuit determines that the screen is defective, the control circuit assigns an intermediate level of appearance rating to the user device and instructs the platform to move the user device to a second final position reserved for user devices having a defective screen, and if the control circuit does not determine that the screen is defective, the control circuit assigns a high level of appearance rating to the user device and instructs the platform to move the user device to a third final position reserved for user devices that are undamaged and free of defects. [Item 5] The system according to item 4, wherein if the control circuit identifies a predetermined number or more cracks on the screen depicted in the image, the control circuit determines that the screen is damaged, and if the control circuit identifies a predetermined amount or more of scratches on the screen depicted in the image, the control circuit determines that the screen is defective. [Item 6] The device further comprises a housing that surrounds the first illumination element and the imaging device, The system according to item 4, wherein the platform includes a conveyor belt that moves the user device to the predetermined position within the housing, and to the first final position, the second final position, or the third final position, after the imaging device has captured the image. [Item 7] It is a system, Positioning device and, A first lighting element positioned at a first angle to the ground, A first imaging device in a fixed position, wherein the first field of view axis, which is the axis of the first field of view formed by the first imaging device, is positioned at a second angle with respect to the ground, and the second angle is the same as the first angle, so that the user device is stationary and positioned at a first predetermined position, and the back surface of the user device is positioned in a predetermined orientation by the positioning device, wherein the light emitted from the first illumination element in the direction of the optical axis formed by the first illumination element and the first field of view axis of the first imaging device intersect at a right angle on the back surface of the user device, A system comprising a control circuit that activates the first illumination element, instructs a first imaging device to capture a first image of the back surface of the user device while the user device is in a first predetermined position and the back surface of the user device is illuminated by the first illumination element, and analyzes the first image to determine whether there is a defect on the back surface of the user device. [Item 8] A second lighting element, Further comprising a second imaging device, The control circuit activates the second illumination element, activates the positioning device to rotate all sides of the user device as they pass through the second field of view of the second imaging device and the light emitted from the second illumination element, and instructs the second imaging device to capture a second image of the sides of the user device while the user device is illuminated by the second illumination element. The control circuit analyzes the second image to determine whether there is a defect on any side of the user device. The system according to item 7, wherein if the control circuit determines that there is a defect on the back or any side of the user device, the control circuit assigns a lower appearance grade to the user device and instructs the platform to move the user device to a first final position dedicated to user devices having a defective back or side. [Item 9] The system according to item 8, wherein if the control circuit identifies a predetermined amount or more of cracks or scratches on the back of the user device as depicted in the first image or on the side of the user device as depicted in the second image, the control circuit determines that there is a defect on either the back of the user device or the side of the user device. [Item 10] A third lighting element positioned at a third angle with respect to the platform, The third imaging device further comprises: a third imaging device wherein the third field of view axis, which is the axis of the third field of view formed by the third imaging device, is positioned at a fourth angle with respect to the platform, and the fourth angle is the same as the third angle, so that when the user device is stationary and positioned at a second predetermined position on the platform, the light emitted from the third illumination element in the direction of the optical axis formed by the third illumination element and the third field of view axis of the third imaging device intersect at a right angle in the user device; If the control circuit does not determine that there is a defect on the back or any side of the user device, the control circuit instructs the platform to move the user device to the second predetermined position, activate the third illumination element, and instructs the third imaging device to capture a third image of the user device while the user device is in the second predetermined position and illuminated by the third illumination element. The control circuit analyzes the third image to determine whether there is a defect in the user device screen. If the control circuit determines that the screen has a defect, the control circuit assigns an intermediate appearance grade to the user device and instructs the platform to move the user device to a second final position dedicated to the user device having the defective screen. The system according to item 8, wherein if the control circuit does not determine that the screen is defective, the control circuit assigns a high appearance rating to the user device and instructs the platform to move the user device to a third final position reserved for undamaged and defect-free user devices. [Item 11] The system according to item 10, wherein if the control circuit identifies a predetermined number or more scratches on the screen depicted in the third image, the control circuit determines that the screen is defective. [Item 12] It is a method, Positioning the first lighting element at a first angle relative to the platform, Positioning the first imaging device in a fixed position, wherein the first field of view axis, which is the axis of the first field of view formed by the first imaging device, is positioned at a second angle with respect to the platform, and the second angle is the same as the first angle, so that when the user device is stationary and positioned at a first predetermined position on the platform, the light emitted from the first illumination element in the direction of the optical axis formed by the first illumination element and the first field of view axis of the first imaging device intersect at a right angle in the user device, and the first imaging device is positioned in a fixed position, Activating the first illuminating element, While the user device is in the first predetermined position and illuminated by the first illumination element, the first imaging device is instructed to capture a first image of the user device's screen. The first image is analyzed using a control circuit to determine whether the screen is damaged, A method comprising: if the control circuit determines that the screen is damaged, assigning a lower appearance rating to the user device; and instructing the platform to move the user device to a first final position dedicated to user devices having a damaged screen. [Item 13] Activating the second lighting element simultaneously with the first lighting element, wherein the first lighting element is positioned above the platform and the second lighting element is positioned below the platform. The method of item 12, further comprising instructing the first imaging device to capture the first image while the user device is in the first predetermined position and illuminated by the first and second illuminating elements. [Item 14] If the control circuit does not determine that the screen is damaged, the first image is analyzed to determine whether the screen has a defect. If the control circuit determines that the screen has a defect, it assigns an intermediate appearance grade to the user device and instructs the platform to move the user device to a second final position dedicated to user devices with defective screens. The method of item 12, further comprising assigning a high appearance rating to the user device if the control circuit does not determine that the screen is defective, and instructing the platform to move the user device to a third final position reserved for undamaged and defect-free user devices. [Item 15] If the control circuit identifies a predetermined number or more cracks on the screen depicted in the first image, it is determined that the screen is damaged. The method according to item 14, further comprising determining that the screen is defective if the control circuit identifies a predetermined number or more scratches on the screen depicted in the first image. [Item 16] When the user device is positioned at a second predetermined position in a predetermined orientation, the second illumination element and the second imaging device are positioned such that the light emitted from the second illumination element and the second field of view axis, which is the axis of the second field of view of the second imaging device, intersect at a right angle within the user device. Activating the second illuminating element, The second imaging device is instructed to capture a second image of the back of the user device while the user device is in the second predetermined position and orientation and the back of the user device is illuminated by the second illumination element. The method according to item 12, further comprising analyzing the second image using the control circuit to determine whether there is a defect on the back surface of the user device. [Item 17] Rotating all sides of the user device as it passes through the third field of view of the third imaging device and the light emitted by the third illumination element, While the user device is illuminated by the third illumination element, the third imaging device is instructed to capture a third image of the side of the user device. The third image is analyzed to determine whether there is a defect on the side surface of the user device, The method of item 16, further comprising: if the control circuit determines that there is a defect on the back or side of the user device, assigning a lower appearance rating to the user device; and instructing the platform to move the user device to a second final position dedicated to user devices having a defective back or side. [Item 18] The method of item 17, further comprising determining that there is a defect on the back of the user device or on the side of the user device if the control circuit identifies a predetermined amount or more of cracks or scratches on the back of the user device as depicted in the second image or on the side of the user device as depicted in the third image. [Item 19] If the control circuit does not determine that there is a defect on the back or side of the user device, when the user device is positioned at a third predetermined position on the platform, the fourth illuminating element and the fourth imaging device are positioned relative to the platform such that the light emitted from the fourth illuminating element and the fourth field of view axis, which is the axis of the fourth field of view of the fourth imaging device, intersect at a right angle in the user device. Activating the fourth illuminating element, While the user device is in the third predetermined position and illuminated by the fourth illumination element, the fourth imaging device is instructed to capture a fourth image of the user device. The fourth image is analyzed using the control circuit to determine whether there is a defect in the screen, If the control circuit determines that the screen has a defect, it assigns an intermediate appearance grade to the user device and instructs the platform to move the user device to a third final position dedicated to user devices with defective screens. The method of item 17, further comprising: assigning a high appearance rating to the user device if the control circuit does not determine that the screen is defective; and instructing the platform to move the user device to a fourth final position reserved for undamaged and defect-free user devices. [Item 20] The method according to item 19, further comprising determining that the screen is defective when the control circuit identifies a predetermined number or more scratches on the screen depicted in the fourth image. [Item 21] The system described in item 1, wherein the first illuminating element is a surface illuminating device that forms two-dimensional illumination. [Item 22] The system according to item 1, wherein the image of the screen captured by the imaging device includes the entire screen of the user device, and the entire screen is captured all at once by the imaging device. [Item 23] The system described in item 22, wherein analyzing the image to determine whether the screen is damaged includes analyzing the entire screen at once.

Claims

1. It is a system, Platform and A first lighting element having a light-emitting surface positioned at a first angle with respect to the platform, and forming an optical axis along a direction perpendicular to the light-emitting surface, An imaging device in a fixed position, mounted at a second angle to the platform, the field of view axis which is the axis of the field of view formed by the imaging device is positioned at the second angle to the platform, and the second angle is the same as the first angle, so that when the user device is stationary and positioned at a predetermined position on the platform, the light emitted from the first illumination element in the direction of the optical axis formed by the first illumination element and the field of view axis of the imaging device intersect at a right angle in the user device, A control circuit that activates the first illumination element, instructs the imaging device to capture an image of the user device's screen while the user device is in the predetermined position and illuminated by the first illumination element, and analyzes the image to determine whether the screen is damaged. A second lighting element is provided, The first lighting element is positioned above the platform, The second lighting element is positioned below the platform, A system in which the control circuit operates the second illumination element simultaneously with the first illumination element, and instructs the imaging device to capture the image while the user device is in the predetermined position and illuminated by the first illumination element and the second illumination element.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein if the control circuit determines that the screen is damaged, the control circuit assigns a first appearance grade to the user device and instructs the platform to move the user device to a first final position dedicated to the user device having the damaged screen.

3. If the control circuit does not determine that the screen is damaged, the control circuit analyzes the image to determine whether the screen is defective, and if the control circuit determines that the screen is defective, the control circuit assigns a second appearance grade to the user device and instructs the platform to move the user device to a second final position reserved for user devices with defective screens; if the control circuit does not determine that the screen is defective, the control circuit assigns a third appearance grade to the user device and instructs the platform to move the user device to a third final position reserved for user devices that are undamaged and free of defects. The system according to claim 2, wherein the first appearance grade is a lower grade than the third appearance grade, and the second appearance grade is a grade between the first appearance grade and the third appearance grade.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein if the control circuit identifies a predetermined number or more of cracks on the screen depicted in the image, the control circuit determines that the screen is damaged, and if the control circuit identifies a predetermined amount or more of scratches on the screen depicted in the image, the control circuit determines that the screen is defective.

5. The device further comprises a housing that surrounds the first illumination element and the imaging device, The system according to claim 3, wherein the platform includes a conveyor belt for moving the user device to the predetermined position within the housing, and to the first final position, the second final position, or the third final position, after the imaging device has captured the image.

6. It is a method, Positioning the light-emitting surface of the first illuminating element at a first angle with respect to the platform, wherein the first illuminating element forms an optical axis along a direction perpendicular to the light-emitting surface, Positioning the first imaging device in a fixed position, wherein the first imaging device is mounted at a second angle to the platform, and the first field of view axis, which is the axis of the first field of view formed by the first imaging device, is positioned at a second angle to the platform, and the second angle is the same as the first angle, so that when the user device is stationary and positioned at a first predetermined position on the platform, the light emitted from the first illumination element in the direction of the optical axis formed by the first illumination element and the first field of view axis of the first imaging device intersect at a right angle in the user device, and the first imaging device is positioned in a fixed position, Activating the first illuminating element, While the user device is in the first predetermined position and illuminated by the first illumination element, the first imaging device is instructed to capture a first image of the user device's screen. The first image is analyzed using a control circuit to determine whether the screen is damaged, If the control circuit determines that the screen is damaged, it assigns a first appearance grade to the user device and instructs the platform to move the user device to a first final position dedicated to the user device having the damaged screen. Activating the second lighting element simultaneously with the first lighting element, wherein the first lighting element is positioned above the platform and the second lighting element is positioned below the platform. A method comprising instructing a first imaging device to capture a first image while the user device is in a first predetermined position and is illuminated by the first illumination element and the second illumination element.

7. If the control circuit does not determine that the screen is damaged, the first image is analyzed to determine whether the screen has a defect. If the control circuit determines that the screen has a defect, it assigns a second appearance grade to the user device and instructs the platform to move the user device to a second final position dedicated to the user device having the defective screen. If the control circuit does not determine that the screen is defective, the further includes assigning a third appearance grade to the user device and instructing the platform to move the user device to a third final position dedicated to undamaged and defect-free user devices. The method according to claim 6, wherein the first appearance grade is a lower grade than the third appearance grade, and the second appearance grade is a grade between the first appearance grade and the third appearance grade.

8. If the control circuit identifies a predetermined number or more cracks on the screen depicted in the first image, it is determined that the screen is damaged. The method according to claim 7, further comprising determining that there is a defect in the screen if the control circuit identifies a predetermined number or more scratches on the screen depicted in the first image.

9. When the user device is positioned at a second predetermined position in a predetermined orientation, the second illumination element and the second imaging device are positioned such that the light emitted from the second illumination element and the second field of view axis, which is the axis of the second field of view of the second imaging device, intersect at a right angle within the user device. Activating the second lighting element, While the user device is in the second predetermined position and orientation and its back surface is illuminated by the second illumination element, the second imaging device is instructed to capture a second image of the back surface of the user device. The method according to claim 6, further comprising analyzing the second image using the control circuit to determine whether there is a defect on the back surface of the user device.

10. Rotating all sides of the user device as it passes through the third field of view of the third imaging device and the light emitted by the third illumination element, While the user device is illuminated by the third illumination element, the third imaging device is instructed to capture a third image of the side of the user device. The third image is analyzed to determine whether there is a defect on the side surface of the user device, The method according to claim 9, further comprising: if the control circuit determines that there is a defect on the back or side of the user device, assigning the first appearance grade to the user device; and instructing the platform to move the user device to a second final position dedicated to the user device having the defective back or side.

11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising determining that there is a defect on the back of the user device or on the side of the user device if the control circuit identifies a predetermined amount or more of cracks or scratches on the back of the user device as depicted in the second image or on the side of the user device as depicted in the third image.

12. If the control circuit does not determine that there is a defect on the back or side of the user device, when the user device is positioned at a third predetermined position on the platform, the fourth illuminating element and the fourth imaging device are positioned relative to the platform such that the light emitted from the fourth illuminating element and the fourth field of view axis, which is the axis of the fourth field of view of the fourth imaging device, intersect at a right angle on the user device. Activating the fourth illuminating element, While the user device is in the third predetermined position and illuminated by the fourth illumination element, the fourth imaging device is instructed to capture a fourth image of the user device. The fourth image is analyzed using the control circuit to determine whether there is a defect in the screen, If the control circuit determines that the screen has a defect, it assigns a second appearance grade to the user device and instructs the platform to move the user device to a third final position dedicated to the user device having the defective screen. If the control circuit does not determine that the screen is defective, the further includes assigning a third appearance grade to the user device and instructing the platform to move the user device to a fourth final position reserved for undamaged and defect-free user devices. The method according to claim 10, wherein the first appearance grade is a lower grade than the third appearance grade, and the second appearance grade is a grade between the first appearance grade and the third appearance grade.

13. The method according to claim 12, further comprising determining that there is a defect in the screen when the control circuit identifies a predetermined number or more scratches on the screen depicted in the fourth image.

14. The system according to claim 1, wherein the first illuminating element is a surface illuminating device that forms two-dimensional illumination.

Images