Image-Based Liquid Volume Estimation From Surface Level Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid processing apparatuses face challenges in accurately measuring the volume of a processed liquid product, with existing solutions relying on complex hardware and/or software, such as digital scales or AI-based technologies, the complexity of measuring the contents, such as digital scales, which are not addressed by existing solutions, including AI-based analysis and hardware components, leading to increased costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that uses image processing to estimate the volume of a processed liquid product by segmenting the image data, determining the dimension of the processed liquid product, and applying a predetermined relationship to calculate the volume, leveraging existing camera capabilities without additional hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual sampling and measurement methods are used, then equipment complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and productivity are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical sampling and measurement operations with an automated optical measurement system. The probe assembly with optical sensors detects liquid level and volume electronically, eliminating the need for manual sampling equipment and mechanical measurement tools, thereby improving precision while managing complexity through automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses optical sensing to create an electronic representation (copy) of the liquid volume in the transfer line without physically sampling the liquid. The optical probe detects light absorption or reflection changes to determine volume, replacing physical measurement copies with optical data copies for more precise and non-intrusive measurement.
2Productivity
If automated probe measurement is implemented, then measurement precision and productivity are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical probe assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it measures liquid level, determines volume, detects liquid presence, and can identify liquid properties through optical characteristics. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate measurement devices, managing complexity while improving productivity through a single integrated sensing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is designed to operate autonomously within the transfer line without requiring external intervention. The probe automatically detects volume changes as liquid passes through, and the system self-calibrates using reference measurements, reducing operational complexity while maintaining high productivity through continuous automated monitoring.
3Loss of information
If continuous optical monitoring is used, then productivity and measurement precision are improved, but energy consumption and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous monitoring, the optical probe uses periodic measurement pulses that trigger at specific intervals or when liquid presence is detected. This periodic operation maintains accurate volume data collection while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous illumination and detection, as the optical source and sensors remain inactive between measurement cycles.
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
Provides an accurate and efficient method to estimate the volume of processed liquid products, reducing complexity and user burden, while leveraging existing camera capabilities in smart appliances.
Implementation Method 1
The system employs an optical probe to detect the presence and volume of liquid in the transfer line
Data Source
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Figure 5(A)~5(C)
AI summary
In an embodiment, a computer-implemented method (100) of estimating a volume of a processed liquid product in a container for a liquid processing apparatus is described. The method comprises receiving (102) first image data corresponding to a view of the processed liquid product in the container after a first ingredient has been processed by the liquid processing apparatus. The method further comprises segmenting (104) a portion of the first image data that corresponds to a surface level of the processed liquid product in the container from a background to the processed liquid product. The method further comprises determining (106) a dimension of the surface level of the processed liquid product in the container from the segmented portion of the first image data. The method further comprises estimating a first volume of the processed liquid product based on the dimension. The first volume is estimated according to a predetermined relationship between the dimension of a given surface level and a known volume of liquid held by the container for the given surface level.