3D Scan Inventory System for Random Object Counting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current inventory systems fail to provide continuous and accurate documentation for the removal of objects from warehouses, especially for randomly arranged and overlapping items, and are often costly and unsuitable for unordered or partially hidden objects.
Innovation Solution
A 3D scanning-based measuring system that uses a 3D scan measuring unit to capture data, combined with a database of object and storage bin data, to estimate the number of similar objects by calculating the volume of contents and using object data to determine the number of objects, allowing for automatic inventory management and subsequent deliveries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If image recognition algorithms (Histogram of Oriented Gradients) are used to count objects, then object identification is improved, but the system fails to count randomly arranged and overlapping objects accurately
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D image recognition to 3D spatial analysis by capturing depth information. The system uses a 3D scanning unit to obtain spatial coordinates of objects, enabling accurate counting even when objects are randomly arranged or overlapping in physical space. This dimensional expansion allows the system to distinguish between objects based on their three-dimensional positions rather than relying solely on two-dimensional image patterns.
2Extent of automation
If scales built into shelves are used to inventory objects, then automatic inventory is achieved, but the installation cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical weighing scales with an optical/3D scanning system. Instead of using physical scales that require installation in each shelf compartment, the system uses a 3D scanning unit to capture spatial data and calculate object quantities based on volume displacement. This substitution eliminates the need for expensive mechanical infrastructure while maintaining automatic inventory capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital 3D model (virtual copy) of the storage space and its contents through scanning. By reconstructing the spatial arrangement of objects in a digital model, the system can calculate volumes and count objects without physical contact or mechanical measurement devices. This digital copying approach replaces expensive physical scaling infrastructure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If 3D scan data is used to estimate object volume, then counting of randomly arranged objects is enabled, but measurement precision for individual objects may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs partial measurement by focusing on the collective volume occupied by objects rather than measuring each individual object with high precision. By calculating the total volume of objects based on their spatial distribution in the 3D scan and dividing by the average object volume, the system achieves accurate counting for random arrangements without requiring precise measurement of each individual object's dimensions.
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 efficient and cost-effective estimation of object quantities in unordered storage locations, reducing the need for continuous documentation and minimizing the requirement for expensive scale installations, while allowing for automatic ordering based on estimated stock levels.
Implementation Method 1
a 3D scan measuring unit (3) for capturing 3D scan data
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A measurement system (1) for estimating the number of randomly arranged objects (9) in a storage location (21) is presented. The measurement system (1) comprises a 3D scan measurement unit (3) for acquiring 3D scan data, a database (4) containing object data relating to the objects (9), and an evaluation unit (5). The evaluation unit (5) is configured to approximate the volume of the contents of the storage location (21) using the 3D scan measurement unit (3). Furthermore, the number of objects (9) in the storage location (21) is estimated using the approximate volume of the contents of the storage location (21) and the object data relating to the objects (9) contained in the database (4). A combination comprising the measurement system (1) and a storage unit (2), methods for estimation and subsequent replenishment, and the use of the measurement system (1) for such methods are also presented.