Carcass Classification Using Angular Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing SEUROP carcass classification system for cattle is subjective and costly due to reliance on visual inspection by skilled assessors, leading to potential errors and the need for multiple assessors for reliability, whereas existing image analysis methods lack objective parameters and require costly pre-calibration.
Innovation Solution
A classification apparatus and method using an industrial video camera to acquire digital images of cattle carcasses, calculating angular parameters from specific landmarks to objectively and automatically assign SEUROP classes based on reference thresholds, allowing for semi-automatic operation and reduced costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If visual inspection by skilled assessors is used for SEUROP classification, then the assessment can be performed with existing expertise, but the results are subjective and require multiple assessors for reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual inspection system with an optical-digital system. An acquisition unit captures images of the carcass, and a processing unit automatically calculates angular parameters from these images to determine SEUROP class, eliminating the need for multiple human assessors while maintaining or improving reliability through objective mathematical measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces digital images and angular parameter calculations as intermediaries between the physical carcass and the classification decision. The acquisition unit creates a digital representation, and the processing unit extracts angular features that serve as objective mediators for classification, replacing subjective human visual assessment
2Reliability
If multiple assessors are used to reduce subjectivity error, then classification reliability improves, but costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-assessment by automatically capturing images and calculating angular parameters without requiring human assessors. The processing unit independently determines the SEUROP class based on objective measurements, eliminating the need to pay multiple assessors while maintaining high reliability through mathematical objectivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the carcass through image acquisition, which can be analyzed without requiring physical inspection by multiple assessors. This digital replica allows automated measurement of angular parameters, reducing the need for multiple human evaluations while maintaining assessment accuracy
3Extent of automation
If image analysis methods are used for carcass classification, then automation is improved, but pre-calibration and parameter settings are required which increase complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential angular parameters needed for SEUROP classification from the complex task of full carcass analysis. By focusing specifically on angular measurements from key anatomical points, the system achieves automation without requiring extensive pre-calibration of multiple parameters, simplifying the setup while maintaining high automation level
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from analyzing multiple linear and surface parameters to focusing on angular parameters. This parameter transformation simplifies the measurement requirements and reduces pre-calibration needs, as angular measurements can be directly calculated from image geometry without extensive reference standards
4Measurement precision
If angular parameters are used for classification, then objectivity and accuracy are improved, but the measurement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex manual angular measurement with automated digital image analysis. The processing unit calculates angular parameters mathematically from digital images using coordinate geometry, eliminating the need for complex physical measurement tools or manual protractor-based measurements while achieving high precision
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus (1) for the SEUROP classification of the conformation of carcasses of slaughtered cattle is described, comprising: - an acquisition unit (3) adapted to acquire at least one digital image (30) of an outer face of a side (45) of a carcass of a slaughtered bovine, the side (45) comprising a region of the rump and of the lower limb (46) and a remaining region (47) of the side 45; - a processing unit (6) configured to receive the acquired digital image (30) and to calculate from the digital image (30) at least one angular parameter AC, AC1, AC2, AC3, AC4, the above-mentioned angular parameter being calculated by using at least one landmark (P1-P4) located in the region of the rump and of the lower limb (46).