Automated Tool Control System with Image-Based Inventory Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tool control systems face challenges in accurately verifying the contents of kits, managing access security, automating inventory audits, and efficiently filtering and displaying audit data, particularly in high-security environments like the aerospace industry.
Innovation Solution
An automated tool control system equipped with image sensing devices, multi-factor authentication, remote locking mechanisms, and advanced data processing capabilities to verify kit contents, manage access, and filter audit data effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are disposed in numerous storage locations to detect tool presence, then inventory detection capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses image capture devices to create visual copies of storage location contents, replacing the need for physical sensors at each location. The image processing system analyzes these visual copies to detect tool presence and identity, significantly reducing hardware complexity while maintaining detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/electrical sensor systems with an optical imaging and computer vision system. Instead of using contact sensors, magnetic sensors, or infrared sensors that require physical installation at each storage location, the system uses cameras and image processing algorithms to detect tool presence and characteristics.
2Measurement precision
If manual inventory checks are performed to verify tool contents, then accuracy of tool verification is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic self-verification of tool inventory by capturing images, processing them through computer vision algorithms, and comparing detected tools against the required tool list. This eliminates the need for manual inspection while maintaining high verification accuracy, thereby reducing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging and verification process can occur continuously or at scheduled intervals without interrupting workflow. The system automatically captures images and processes them in real-time or near-real-time, providing continuous monitoring of tool inventory status without requiring periodic manual stops for verification.
3Loss of information
If work order information is integrated with tool control system, then information completeness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates multiple functions including work order management, tool inventory tracking, image capture, and verification into a single unified platform. The tool control system serves as both a storage management system and an information integration hub, reducing the need for separate systems and interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses an image capture device and processing system as an intermediary between physical tool inventory and digital work order information. The processed image data serves as a bridge that connects physical tool presence/absence with the digital work order requirements, enabling integration without direct complex connectivity between all system components.
Data Source
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AI summary
An inventory control system is provided for monitoring the removal and replacement of objects stored in the system. The system includes a storage container including a plurality of storage locations for storing objects; a sensing device configured to detect the presence or absence of objects in the storage locations; a display device; and a data processor. The data processor is configured to receive work order data identifying a particular work order; receive information associated with the work order based on the work order data; and display the information associated with the work order on the display device.