Device Inspection Management Apparatus Using Image Recognition

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing device inspection systems face errors and oversights due to false recognition of devices, particularly in environments with similar-shaped devices, leading to incorrect inspections and false operation records without ensuring workers visit the correct device.

Innovation Solution

A management apparatus and method that utilize device and individual identification information, using unique identification labels and biometric authentication, to ensure accurate device inspection by matching identification information and granting editable operation records only when correct identification is verified.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If workers manually check computerized drawings and operation procedures on site, then inspection efficiency is improved, but inspection errors and oversight of abnormalities occur due to false recognition of devices

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinspection efficiencyVSAvoidinspection accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a management apparatus as an intermediary between the worker and the device inspection process. This apparatus captures images of devices, extracts identification information, and automatically compares it with the inspection target device information. This intermediary system eliminates the need for workers to manually recognize devices, thereby maintaining inspection efficiency while preventing false recognition errors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical/manual system of worker-based device recognition with an automated image processing and information extraction system. By using cameras to capture device images and automated algorithms to extract and verify identification information, the system substitutes human visual recognition with machine-based automation, thereby eliminating human error while maintaining high inspection efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Quantity of substance

If workers inspect devices based on similar names and device numbers, then inspection coverage is improved, but false reports occur due to false recognition of device information

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinspection coverageVSAvoiddevice identification accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual device identification based on similar names and numbers with automated image-based identification. The system captures device images, extracts unique identification information directly from the device appearance and labeling, and verifies it against the inspection target. This substitution ensures accurate device identification while maintaining comprehensive inspection coverage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a visual copy (image) of the device and extracts identification information from this copy rather than relying on workers to read and interpret similar-looking device labels. This copying approach allows for precise capture and analysis of device identification features, preventing false recognition while enabling thorough inspection coverage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Productivity

If operation record information is created without verifying device visit, then record creation speed is improved, but false operation records are created without actual inspection

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverecord creation speedVSAvoidoperation record authenticity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary verification by capturing device images and verifying identification information before allowing operation record creation. The management apparatus automatically checks whether the captured device matches the inspection target device before the worker can create operation records. This preliminary action ensures record authenticity while maintaining efficient record creation processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the management apparatus continuously verifies device identification information and provides confirmation or rejection signals before allowing operation record creation. This feedback loop ensures that only authenticated device inspections result in valid operation records, maintaining both speed and authenticity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10078926B2Management apparatus, management method, and non-transitory computer-readable recording medium storing management program

Publication Date: 2018.09.18 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD

AI summary

A method includes obtaining, from a first device, first device identification information for identifying the first device; storing, in a memory, operation instruction information including second device identification information for identifying a second device to be inspected and operation record information including a result of inspection of the second device, the operation record information being created at a time of inspection of the second device; and making the operation record information stored in the memory editable in a case where the obtained first device identification information and the second device identification information included in the operation instruction information match each other.