3D Parcel Measurement with Smartphone LiDAR and Frame Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring package size, such as those using stereo cameras or optical sensors, require expensive equipment and are limited to rectangular parallelepipeds, and do not account for cost, accuracy, and operability in delivery scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A measurement system utilizing a smartphone equipped with LiDAR to perform depth measurement and frame recognition, enabling accurate calculation of package dimensions by detecting frames and performing depth measurements on captured images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If stereo camera and triangulation principle are used for package measurement, then measurement capability is achieved, but equipment cost increases and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling standard smartphone cameras to perform package measurement functions that previously required dedicated measurement equipment. The system uses existing smartphone hardware (camera, processor) to achieve package dimension measurement, making the measurement capability universal across multiple device types rather than requiring specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses image copying principles by capturing package images with standard camera sensors and creating digital representations (depth maps, 3D models) from these images. The measurement is performed on these copied visual representations rather than requiring direct physical measurement, enabling remote and non-contact measurement capabilities.
2Measurement precision
If stereo camera method is used, then depth measurement capability is achieved, but cost and operability for delivery scenarios deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling delivery personnel to perform package measurements using their own personal smartphones rather than requiring specialized measurement equipment. The system leverages the computational capabilities of the smartphone itself to process images and calculate dimensions, making the measurement process self-contained and easily operable in delivery scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical measurement systems (physical contact measurement, dedicated measurement devices) with optical and computational methods. Standard camera imaging combined with image processing algorithms substitutes for traditional mechanical measurement tools, enabling non-contact and easier operation.
3Measurement precision
If all eight vertices are measured as assumed in prior art, then complete package measurement is achieved, but imaging from multiple directions is required increasing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by measuring only the necessary vertices for package dimension calculation rather than requiring all eight vertices to be measured. The system identifies and measures key vertices that are sufficient to determine package dimensions, reducing the imaging and measurement complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the package measurement task into identifying key vertices and calculating dimensions from those vertices, rather than treating all vertices equally. The system segments the measurement process to focus only on the essential measurement points needed for accurate package sizing.
4Measurement precision
If measurement is limited to rectangular parallelepiped shapes, then measurement accuracy for standard packages is achieved, but adaptability to various shapes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a measurement system that can handle multiple package shapes (rectangular parallelepipeds, cylindrical, irregular shapes) using the same fundamental image processing approach. The system is designed to be shape-agnostic, adapting to different geometries without requiring specialized measurement procedures for each shape type.
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
Enables easy, accurate measurement of object shapes with high precision, suitable for various shapes and environments, reducing costs and improving operability.
Implementation Method 1
laser imaging detection and ranging (LiDAR) technology
Implementation Method 2
depth measurement unit configured to perform depth measurement
Data Source
AI summary
The shape of an object is measured with high accuracy. A measurement system includes a frame recognition unit configured to detect one or more frames indicating a straight line portion from a captured image, a depth measurement unit configured to perform depth measurement, and a dimension estimation unit configured to calculate a length of a frame on a basis of the captured image and a result of the depth measurement. The measurement system may have a function of specifying a range in which a measurement target object is present from the captured image.