Lock Type Determination Using Sensor Probability Distributions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the type of lock devices used to secure containers are inefficient and prone to errors due to manual intervention, deformation, and erosion, leading to high costs and potential mistakes during unloading processes.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize sensors, such as 2D and 3D cameras, to collect raw data from lock devices, generate probability distributions, and determine lock types automatically, allowing for accurate identification without manual intervention and enabling robot systems to remove lock devices efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If human workers are employed to determine lock types, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but time cost and human resources increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical human visual inspection system with an automated image recognition system using cameras and computer algorithms. The system captures images of lock devices and automatically determines lock types through pattern recognition, eliminating the need for human workers to manually inspect each lock while significantly reducing time cost.
2Adaptability or versatility
If human workers determine lock types, then adaptability to different lock conditions is maintained, but human errors occur due to deformation and erosion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates digital copies (images) of the lock devices and analyzes these copies through computer algorithms rather than relying on direct human observation. This copying approach allows the system to examine lock features without physical contact, avoiding errors from deformation and erosion while maintaining the ability to handle various lock types through image analysis.
3Productivity
If automated sensor systems are used to determine lock types, then time efficiency and accuracy are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal image recognition system that can identify multiple lock types using the same camera and algorithm framework. Rather than requiring specialized equipment for each lock type, the system uses multi-functional image processing capabilities to handle diverse lock devices, thereby improving productivity without proportionally increasing system complexity.
4Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are deployed to collect lock device data, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces image processing algorithms as an intermediary between the camera sensor and lock type determination. The algorithms extract relevant features from images and transform them into reliable identification data, achieving high measurement precision while keeping the physical sensor system simple (primarily requiring only a camera).
Data Source
AI summary
Method for determining a lock type of a lock device. In the method, a group of raw data of a group of lock devices is collected from a group of sensors respectively. Here the group of lock devices are respectively mounted to an object at a group of positions, and the group of lock devices belong to at least one lock type of a plurality of lock types. A group of probability distributions are obtained based on the group of raw data. Here a probability distribution in the group of probability distributions is associated with a lock device in the group of lock devices and probabilities of lock types to which the lock device belongs. A lock type of the lock device is determined based on the group of probability distributions.