Image-Based Lockout Tag Auditing for Accurate Tag Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lockout tag auditing processes are costly and prone to errors, as they require manual verification of tag locations and conditions, which can lead to mistakes in identifying damaged, obsolete, or incorrectly positioned tags.
Innovation Solution
A computer-driven, image-based system using a mobile device with a camera and database to automatically confirm the correctness and location of lockout tags, comparing images with database data to determine matching values and update audit information, facilitating both auditing and lockout procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual auditing of lockout tags is performed, then human judgment can identify tag conditions, but the process is costly and prone to mistakes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical auditing process with an automated image recognition system using cameras and computer vision algorithms to detect, classify, and verify lockout tags, eliminating human labor while maintaining or improving detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates digital copies (images) of physical lockout tags and processes these copies through automated analysis, allowing multiple audits of the same tag without additional physical inspection costs and enabling persistent record-keeping for verification
2Measurement precision
If physical auditing visits are conducted to confirm tag locations, then tag positioning can be verified, but the process is costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical auditor visits with automated image capture and analysis systems that can verify tag locations, orientations, and visibility conditions remotely, dramatically reducing the time and resources required for location verification while maintaining precision through computer vision algorithms
3Reliability
If auditors manually inspect each tag for damage or obsolescence, then tag condition can be assessed, but human vigilance requirements increase complexity and error risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces human visual inspection with automated image recognition systems that use machine learning models trained to detect subtle signs of tag damage, obsolescence, and degradation, providing consistent and reliable detection without requiring human expertise or sustained vigilance
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides automated feedback through image analysis results, automatically comparing detected tags against known good templates and alerting to specific anomalies such as fading, tearing, or incorrect positioning, thereby eliminating the need for human judgment while maintaining high detection reliability
Data Source
AI summary
A lockout tagout auditing and guidance system provides a mobile device that can guide an individual to particular tags either to perform the operations required for lockout procedures or to perform an auditing activity. In both cases, images of the tags are obtained and imaged and tag locations compared to corresponding information in the database to assess the existence and clarity of the tags for auditing purposes.