3D Scanning System for Supply Chain Piece Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current supply chain management systems lack efficient methods for creating detailed 3D models of products for autonomous manipulation, particularly at the piece level, which is crucial for high-speed and accurate inventory management and product identification.
Innovation Solution
A scanning system that generates high-resolution 3D models of products, including dimensions, weight, and visual features, to create digital representations suitable for various configurations, such as packaging, single product, and multiple product configurations, enabling accurate identification and manipulation by autonomous robots.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If traditional scanners are used for supply chain management, then basic product identification is possible, but detailed 3D modeling and autonomous manipulation at piece level cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates detailed digital 3D copies of physical products using depth sensors and image capture devices. These digital models include precise geometric data, texture information, and physical properties that enable autonomous robots to identify and manipulate individual pieces without human intervention, resolving the contradiction between automation extent and information loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional 2D barcode scanning to comprehensive 3D modeling by incorporating depth sensors and multi-angle image capture. This dimensional enhancement provides complete spatial information about product geometry, surfaces, and configurations, enabling autonomous manipulation while preserving all necessary product details.
2Measurement precision
If high-resolution 3D scanning is implemented for piece-level identification, then product manipulation accuracy improves, but scanning speed and throughput may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by capturing multiple images and depth data from various angles simultaneously using arrays of sensors. The system pre-processes this data to create complete 3D models before manipulation tasks begin, ensuring high measurement precision without slowing down the overall throughput since scanning and model creation are prepared in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple sensing functions into a unified scanning system that simultaneously captures depth information, color images, and geometric data using coordinated sensor arrays. This consolidation allows high-resolution 3D scanning to occur at speeds compatible with supply chain throughput by processing multiple data streams in parallel rather than sequentially.
3Reliability
If multiple sensors and imaging devices are deployed for comprehensive product modeling, then product identification accuracy improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal multi-functional sensors that simultaneously perform depth measurement, color capture, and geometric mapping. Each sensor unit is designed to execute multiple functions, reducing the overall number of separate devices needed while maintaining high identification reliability through the combined data from these versatile sensing elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the scanning system into modular sensor units that can be independently positioned and calibrated. Each unit captures specific aspects of the product (depth, color, texture), and the system integrates these segmented data streams into a unified 3D model. This segmentation reduces overall system complexity by making each component simpler while achieving comprehensive product identification through their combination.
Data Source
AI summary
Managing supply chain inventory is accomplished by measuring the dimensions and the weight of a product. A plurality of images of the product is obtained. The shape of the outer surface of the product is determined. The center of gravity of the product can be calculated. A product model that includes a three dimensional representation of the shape of a configuration of the product and optionally the center of gravity of the product is generated. The product model is stored in memory for future use.