Container Auto-Dimensioning via 3D Depth Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for improved, automated means to efficiently detect and report the dimensions of containers, which vary in size, to optimize loading and unloading processes in transportation, particularly in long-haul and short-haul goods transport.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a container monitoring unit (CMU) equipped with 3D-depth and 2D cameras that capture images of containers, analyze the data to determine plane equations, and compute dimensions such as height, width, and depth, enabling accurate measurement and reporting of container dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement methods are used to determine container dimensions, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with an automated optical measurement system using 3D-depth cameras and 2D cameras. The image capture apparatus automatically captures images of the container, and the processor analyzes these images to determine plane equations and compute dimensions, eliminating the need for manual measurement tools and significantly improving measurement precision while accepting increased device complexity through automation.
2Productivity
If automated image capture and analysis systems are implemented, then measurement precision and productivity improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system performs self-service by automatically capturing images, processing the image data, and computing container dimensions without requiring external manual intervention. The processor autonomously analyzes the captured images, determines plane equations, and calculates dimensions, enabling the system to serve itself and significantly improving productivity while the complexity is justified by the autonomous operation.
3Measurement precision
If multiple camera types (3D-depth and 2D) are used, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple camera types (3D-depth camera and 2D camera) into a single integrated image capture apparatus. The 3D-depth camera captures depth information while the 2D camera captures visual information, and both are processed together by the same processor to determine plane equations and compute dimensions. This merging approach improves measurement precision by combining complementary data sources while managing device complexity through integrated processing.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to the field of space dimensioning. In an embodiment, the present invention is a method of dimensioning a container bound by at least a first wall and a second wall opposite the first wall, the space being 3D and definable via height, width, and depth coordinates. The method includes: obtaining, a 3D image of at least a portion of the space; analyzing the image to determine a first and second equations defining first plane and second planes corresponding to the first and second walls; solving the first equation for a first coordinate value; solving the second equation for a second coordinate value, the first coordinate value and the second coordinate value being one of a width coordinate or a height coordinate; and computing a first distance based at least in part on the first coordinate value and the second coordinate value.