Object Measurement Device Using Turntable and Displacement Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring and positioning objects like cubes, rectangular parallelepipeds, cylinders, and right prisms in automatic storage systems are costly and prone to mechanical failure, with a high risk of damaging the objects during measurement.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that use a rotating turntable and displacement elements to manipulate objects without clamping, allowing for precise measurement and positioning while minimizing the risk of damage, with optional height detection and identification using bar code readers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If camera-based shape recognition is used to determine object dimensions, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex optical measurement systems (cameras) with a simple mechanical measurement system consisting of a turntable and two displacement elements that physically contact the object. This mechanical approach achieves sufficient measurement precision while dramatically reducing system cost and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The object itself serves as the measurement reference by being positioned against the displacement elements. The displacement elements move along the object's surfaces to directly measure dimensions, eliminating the need for external imaging systems and complex image processing algorithms.
2Manufacturing precision
If forks are used to clamp packages for measurement, then positioning precision is improved, but object damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the clamping fork mechanism with a turntable-based system where objects are gently placed and rotated. Displacement elements slide along object surfaces rather than clamping them, eliminating the risk of damage while maintaining measurement precision through controlled positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The turntable acts as an intermediary between the measurement system and the object. Instead of directly clamping the object, the system uses the turntable's rotation and the displacement elements' sliding motion to achieve positioning and measurement without harmful contact forces.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple mechanical components are used for measurement, then measurement capability is improved, but system reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The turntable serves multiple functions: it positions objects for measurement, rotates objects to access different surfaces, and provides a stable reference plane. The displacement elements both measure dimensions and position objects. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines positioning, rotation, and measurement functions into an integrated system where the turntable and displacement elements work together. Instead of separate mechanisms for each function, the system merges these operations into a coordinated sequence, reducing mechanical complexity and potential failure points.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method and a device (1) for measuring the dimensions (length, width, height) and the positioning of an object (2) having a well-defined shape, wherein the object (2) is handled during the measurement and positioning thereof using only a rotary plate (3) and two displacement members (4) that move simultaneously, that are provided at a constant distance from each other, and that define a rectangular area larger than the object (2) so that the object (2) is never squeezed during the measurement and the positioning thereof.