Fixed state inspection apparatus, fixed state inspection system, fixed state inspection method, and a non-transitory computer readable medium
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies do not provide an automated method to detect whether securing apparatuses on freight trains are in a fixed or unfixed state, leading to time-consuming visual inspections and potential safety hazards, especially in adverse conditions like nighttime or bad weather.
Innovation Solution
A fixed state inspection system that includes a frame image group acquisition means to capture images of a freight train, a detection means to identify securing apparatuses in an unfixed state using machine learning, and an output means to generate detection position information for securing apparatuses in an unfixed state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If visual observation is used to check securing apparatus state, then no additional equipment is needed, but inspection is time-consuming and may miss unfixed states especially in nighttime or bad weather
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual visual inspection method with an automated image processing system. A camera captures images of the securing apparatus, and an image processing apparatus automatically analyzes the images to determine the state of the securing apparatus. This substitution eliminates the time-consuming and error-prone manual visual inspection while providing reliable detection even in nighttime or bad weather conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-inspection of the securing apparatus state through automated image capture and processing. The inspection process does not require operator intervention for each check - the system automatically captures images, processes them, and determines the state of securing apparatuses, allowing continuous monitoring without consuming operator time.
2Productivity
If automated image processing is implemented to detect securing apparatus state, then inspection efficiency and reliability improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an image processing apparatus as an intermediary between the camera and the final determination of securing apparatus state. This intermediary component automatically analyzes captured images, extracts relevant features, and determines the state of securing apparatuses. The intermediary handles the complexity of image analysis, allowing the overall system to achieve high productivity while managing device complexity through modular design.
3Reliability
If manual visual inspection is performed, then system complexity remains low, but safety risks increase due to potential oversight of unfixed securing apparatuses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an automated image processing system to improve safety. The system continuously monitors the state of securing apparatuses through automated image capture and analysis, eliminating human error and oversight that could lead to safety incidents. The automated system provides reliable detection of unfixed securing apparatuses, significantly improving the safety of freight train operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides continuous feedback on the state of securing apparatuses through automated image processing. By capturing images at multiple positions along the freight train and analyzing them systematically, the system provides comprehensive feedback on the status of all securing apparatuses, enabling timely detection and correction of any unfixed states that could pose safety risks.
Data Source
AI summary
For enabling safer operation of freight trains, a fixed state inspection apparatus includes: a frame image group acquisition unit acquiring frame image group information being information including a plurality of frame images acquired by continuously capturing images of a freight train along a traveling direction, at least one of the frame images including a fixing mechanism that is provided in association with a container in the freight train and can switch between a fixed state and a released state between members; a detection unit detecting the fixing mechanism in an unfixed state different from the fixed state in the freight train, based on the frame image group information; and an output unit generating and outputting detection position information being information allowing determination of a position of the detected fixing mechanism in the freight train, based on a detection frame image being a frame image including the detected fixing mechanism.