Dimensioning Function Selection for Certified Measurement Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dimensioning systems face challenges in accurately determining the appropriate dimensioning function for objects of varying shapes and sizes, particularly when regulatory certification is required, due to complexities in categorization and compliance with unique rules from agencies like NTEP, Measurement Canada, or OIML, leading to potential errors and additional time for recalculations.
Innovation Solution
A dimensioning device and system that employs sensors to capture object data, a processor to select a designated dimensioning function based on criteria stored in memory, and a communication link to a server for certified functions, ensuring accurate and certified dimensioning results by choosing the appropriate algorithm for the object's characteristics and environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a weights & measures legal-for-trade certified dimensioning function is used, then measurement precision and regulatory compliance are improved, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase due to strict categorization criteria
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary classification of the object based on sensor data before selecting the dimensioning function. This preliminary action determines whether the object qualifies for certified dimensioning by checking criteria such as shape regularity, size ranges, and environmental conditions, thereby simplifying the subsequent dimensioning process
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary classification module is introduced between object detection and dimensioning function selection. This intermediary evaluates object characteristics against certified function criteria and mediates the selection process, reducing the complexity burden on the main dimensioning system
2Productivity
If automated function selection is implemented, then productivity is improved by reducing manual intervention, but reliability decreases due to potential errors in automated categorization
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where dimensioning results are validated against expected ranges and patterns. When automated selection produces questionable results, the system can trigger re-evaluation or switch to alternative dimensioning approaches, thereby maintaining reliability while preserving automated throughput
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares multiple dimensioning function options in advance and has fallback mechanisms ready. If the primary automated selection proves incorrect, pre-prepared alternative functions can be applied without requiring manual intervention, cushioning against reliability failures
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dimensioning functions are maintained for different object types, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to managing multiple functions and their criteria
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a universal dimensioning platform that can execute multiple dimensioning functions through a common interface and unified object model. This multi-functionality allows the system to handle diverse object types while maintaining a consistent operational framework, reducing the perceived complexity
4Measurement precision
If certified dimensioning functions are used, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to additional verification and compliance checks
Solution Approach 1:
Compliance verification and certification checks are performed as preliminary actions during the object classification phase, before the actual dimensioning calculation. This ensures that when certified dimensioning is applied, the time-consuming verification has already been completed, reducing the perceived cycle time
Data Source
AI summary
An example dimensioning device includes: a sensor to capture data representing an object; a memory configured to store: a first dimensioning function and criteria associated with the first dimensioning function; and a default dimensioning function; and a processor interconnected with the sensor and the memory, the processor configured to: in response to a dimensioning request to dimension the object, obtain the data representing the object from the sensor; select, from the first dimensioning function and the default dimensioning function, a designated dimensioning function based on the data and the criteria; call the designated dimensioning function to obtain dimensions of the object; and output the dimensions of the object.