Item Identification Using Digital Image Datasets
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for tracking and sorting items within postal and delivery services rely on expensive and sophisticated fluorescent ID tag printers and readers, which are cumbersome and costly to implement and maintain.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that generates a unique image dataset for an item based on digital images, eliminating the need for fluorescent ID tags by using this dataset for identification and dispositioning, such as sorting and tracking, through a centralized system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fluorescent ID tag printers and readers are used for item tracking and sorting, then item identification accuracy is improved, but system cost and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses digital image copies of items instead of physical fluorescent ID tags. The system captures images of items and creates digital representations that can be stored and processed, replacing the need for specialized fluorescent tagging equipment while maintaining identification accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical and optical system of fluorescent tag application and reading with a digital image processing system. Standard cameras and image processing algorithms substitute for specialized fluorescent printers and readers, simplifying the overall system
2Reliability
If fluorescent ID tag printers and readers are deployed, then tracking reliability is improved, but implementation and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses standard digital images that can be captured, stored, and processed without requiring expensive durable infrastructure. The system treats image data as a disposable, easily replaceable medium compared to specialized fluorescent tagging equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The digital image processing system can handle multiple functions including identification, tracking, and sorting using the same infrastructure. A single image capture system serves multiple purposes, reducing the need for specialized equipment for each function
3Productivity
If traditional barcode systems are used, then item dispositioning is efficient, but items appearing visually similar cannot be differentiated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and uses unique local features from item images such as specific patterns, colors, textures, or defects that distinguish individual items. By analyzing local quality characteristics rather than overall item appearance, the system can differentiate visually similar items
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional barcode identification to multi-dimensional image analysis. By considering multiple visual dimensions (color, texture, shape variations, patterns) simultaneously, the system achieves better item differentiation while maintaining processing efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods perform operations that include receiving information regarding an item; obtaining one or more digital images of the item; generating an image dataset, which may be unique, for the item based on the one or more digital images; storing information linking the image data set to the information regarding the item; receiving, from an item disposition system, a request to identify the item, wherein the request includes the image dataset for the item; identifying the item based on receiving the request and the image dataset; and providing, to the item disposition system, the information regarding the item to cause the item disposition system to disposition the item based on the information regarding the item.