Instruction Projecting Device for Parcel Sorting Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing volume of parcel circulation and diversification of parcel types pose challenges for efficient and precise sorting, as manual sorting is time-consuming and prone to errors, and existing automated systems are not adequately equipped to handle the complexity and speed required by modern distribution centers.
Innovation Solution
A parcel sorting system incorporating an instruction projecting device that uses a label reader, distance image sensor, and projector to generate and project images on parcels, guiding workers with precise instructions based on parcel identification and location, thereby enhancing sorting efficiency and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual sorting is used, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but sorting speed and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and physical sorting actions with an automated optical projection system. Projectors display destination information and sorting instructions directly on parcels, eliminating the need for workers to manually read labels and physically locate destinations, thereby dramatically increasing sorting speed while maintaining human oversight for exception handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces visual projection instructions as an intermediary between the sorting system and workers. Instead of workers directly interpreting complex destination data from labels, the projection system translates this information into intuitive visual cues (arrows, colors, icons) that guide sorting actions, bridging the gap between automated data processing and human physical actions.
2Measurement precision
If automated sorting systems are implemented, then productivity increases, but measurement precision and detection accuracy are insufficient for complex parcel types
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a multi-functional projection system that can display various types of information (destination addresses, sorting priorities, handling instructions, destination markers) using a single projector infrastructure. This universal approach handles diverse parcel types without requiring separate detection and display systems for each parcel category, maintaining high measurement precision while controlling device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates visual copies of destination information on the parcel surfaces themselves. Instead of workers reading text labels and mentally processing addresses, the system projects enlarged, color-coded visual representations of destination information directly onto the parcels, providing accurate identification cues without adding complex detection hardware.
3Loss of time
If projection images are displayed on moving parcels, then sorting guidance is provided in real-time, but position accuracy and timing coordination become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the projection system continuously monitors parcel position and adjusts projection timing and location accordingly. The system detects when a parcel enters the projection zone and activates projections at the optimal moment, ensuring accurate positioning and timing coordination while providing real-time sorting guidance that adapts to actual parcel movement speed and position.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary positioning and timing calculations before projections are displayed. The system pre-calculates optimal projection timing based on predicted parcel arrival at the sorting zone and pre-positions projection content accordingly, ensuring that instructions appear on parcels at the correct moment and location without requiring complex real-time adjustments during parcel movement.
Data Source
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AI summary
There is provided an instruction projecting device which generates a projection image to be projected on a parcel based on sensing information of the parcel, the device including: a processor; and a memory, in which by cooperating with the memory, the processor determines whether or not the parcel is picked up based on the sensing information, and in a case where it is determined that the parcel is picked up, the processor generates the projection image including detail information of the parcel.