Networked Camera Parameter Cloning via Decentralized Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

The replacement of cameras in logistics automation systems is cumbersome and prone to errors due to the need for physical handling of SD cards, which can lead to damage, confusion, and loss of configuration data.

Innovation Solution

A camera system where parameter sets are stored in a network memory and transferred between cameras using a decentralized cloning method, eliminating the need for physical handling and ensuring robust and accurate parameter transfer during camera replacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If SD cards are used to store camera parameters for replacement, then parameter transfer between cameras is enabled, but physical handling risks include damage, loss, confusion, and ESD damage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter transfer reliabilityVSAvoidphysical handling complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical SD card handling system with an electronic/communication-based parameter transfer system. The new camera automatically receives parameters from the old camera via network communication during replacement, eliminating the need for physical SD card extraction, transport, and insertion. This substitution removes all risks associated with mechanical handling while maintaining parameter transfer capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a control unit as an intermediary that manages the parameter transfer process. Instead of directly copying parameters from one camera to another via SD card, the control unit mediates the transfer by receiving parameters from the old camera and automatically configuring the new camera, thereby eliminating the need for manual SD card handling and reducing errors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Loss of information

If SD cards are removed and inserted manually during camera replacement, then configuration data can be transferred, but the process is cumbersome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration data transferVSAvoidcamera replacement time
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary action by having the new camera automatically request and receive its configuration parameters from the old camera immediately upon connection to the network, before any manual intervention is required. This automated preliminary parameter retrieval eliminates the time-consuming manual process of removing SD cards, inserting them into the new camera, and waiting for configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables self-service by allowing the new camera to autonomously obtain its configuration parameters from the old camera through network communication without requiring manual SD card handling. The system automatically manages the parameter transfer process, reducing both time and potential for human error.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If micro-SD cards are handled during camera replacement, then parameters can be copied, but the small size makes them easy to lose or mishandle

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter backup reliabilityVSAvoidhandling complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical SD card system with an electronic parameter transfer system over the network. Instead of physically copying parameters via micro-SD cards, the system uses digital communication to transfer configuration data, thereby eliminating the complexity and risk associated with handling tiny, fragile components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a virtual copying mechanism where parameters are transmitted electronically from the old camera to the new camera through the network. This digital copying approach maintains data integrity and reliability while eliminating all physical handling risks associated with micro-SD cards.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS11528403B2Networked cameras configured for camera replacement
Publication Date: 2022.12.13 SICK AG
  • US11528403B2 patent drawing
  • US11528403B2 patent drawing
  • US11528403B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A camera is provided that has an image sensor for recording image data from a field of vision, a communication interface for connection to at least one further camera in a network, a control and evaluation unit for reading the image data, and a memory in which a parameter set for the operation of the camera is stored, At least one further parameter set for the operation of at least one further camera of the network is stored in the memory here.