Dispensing Hazard Detection Using Thermal Imaging and Zoom Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing environments lack automated hazard detection and mitigation capabilities, relying on manual intervention which is inadequate to prevent hazards from escalating, posing risks to property and personnel.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing thermometric cameras and image processing to autonomously detect hazards, generate control signals to cease dispenser operations, activate fire suppression systems, and notify emergency services, enabling rapid hazard mitigation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual intervention is used for hazard detection and mitigation, then device complexity is reduced, but response speed and reliability of hazard mitigation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by automatically detecting hazards through image sensors and thermometric cameras, processing thermal signatures to identify anomalies, and autonomously generating control signals to mitigate hazards without requiring manual human intervention, thereby improving reliability while maintaining acceptable complexity levels
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical intervention with automated electronic and optical systems, including image sensors, thermometric cameras, and control signal generation, substituting human-operated mechanical hazard response with electronic detection and control mechanisms that operate faster and more reliably
2Speed
If automated hazard detection systems are implemented, then response speed and hazard mitigation capability improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves multi-functionality by integrating multiple detection capabilities (image sensing, thermometric imaging) and mitigation functions (dispenser control, fire suppression activation) into a single automated platform, allowing rapid hazard detection and response while consolidating complexity rather than multiplying separate systems
Solution Approach 2:
The control signal generation module serves as an intermediary that processes thermal signature data and translates it into appropriate mitigation actions, mediating between detection and response functions to enable fast automated hazard mitigation without requiring direct complex integration of all system components
3Measurement precision
If magnified field of view is used for detailed hazard analysis, then measurement precision improves, but loss of time for comprehensive area monitoring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic action by alternating between wide-area scanning at lower magnification and focused magnified inspection of suspicious regions, periodically switching between comprehensive monitoring and detailed analysis to maintain both speed and precision without continuous time loss
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring area is segmented into zones of interest, allowing the system to divide comprehensive area monitoring into broader surveillance regions and specific focal points, processing different segments at appropriate magnification levels to balance overall coverage speed with detailed detection precision
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Automated hazard detection and mitigation reduce the risk of injury and damage by quickly responding to and containing hazards within dispensing environments.
Implementation Method 1
A system utilizing image sensors, such as thermometric cameras, to monitor dispensing environments for thermal signatures
Data Source
AI summary
A method for detecting and mitigating hazard events within a dispensing environment including a dispenser are provided. The method can include receiving image data of an area within the dispensing environment and determining segmentation frames therein. An initial state of a hazard event within a segmentation frame can be determined based on pixel data within the segmentation frame exceeding a threshold. A persisted state of the hazard event can be determined based on receiving additional image data having a magnified field of view of the area and determining segmentation frames therein. Based on pixel data within the additional image data exceeding the threshold, the method includes generating and providing one or more control signals controlling operation of the dispenser. Related systems, apparatuses, and computer-readable mediums are also provided.