Object Singulation Using Movement Redistribution and Dynamic Bin Assignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current object distribution systems are inefficient and costly due to reliance on human labor, mechanical complexity, and the need for a large number of collection bins to handle objects of varying sizes and weights, which limits throughput and increases operational costs.

Innovation Solution

A processing system that includes a singulation system with a conveying system, detection system, and redistribution system to provide a singulated stream of objects, utilizing robotic arms and sensors to automate the identification and sorting of objects, reducing the need for multiple collection bins and increasing efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a large number of collection bins are used to handle objects of varying sizes and weights, then the system can accommodate more object types, but the space requirements and capital costs increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to handle objects of varying sizes and weightsVSAvoidspace requirements for collection bins

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically assigns objects to collection bins based on real-time availability and object characteristics rather than using fixed dedicated bins. The bin assignment is flexible and adapts to varying object types, sizes, and weights, allowing the same bin to serve multiple purposes throughout the sorting process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Collection bins are designed to be multi-functional, handling various object types rather than being dedicated to specific object categories. This universal approach allows a smaller number of bins to accommodate diverse object sizes and weights by dynamically reassigning bins based on current sorting needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If human workers manually sort objects to collection bins, then flexibility in handling various object types is maintained, but labor costs and operational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflexibility in handling various object typesVSAvoidoperational complexity and labor requirements

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces manual human sorting with an automated image recognition and control system. Cameras capture object images, processing logic determines appropriate bin assignments, and robotic mechanisms transfer objects to designated bins, eliminating the need for human workers while maintaining flexibility through intelligent algorithms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-sorting through automated image recognition and decision-making algorithms that independently determine bin assignments without human intervention. The control system automatically manages the entire sorting process, from object identification to bin selection and mechanical transfer.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of manufacture

If fixed sequence operations are used in conventional sortation systems, then the process is simple to implement, but throughput is limited and the system cannot adapt to varying sorting needs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of system implementationVSAvoidthroughput and adaptability to varying sorting needs

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs dynamic bin assignment where collection bins are not permanently dedicated to specific object types but are temporarily assigned based on real-time sorting requirements. This dynamic reassignment allows the system to handle varying object types efficiently while maintaining a relatively simple physical infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the operational parameters of collection bins dynamically, altering which bin receives which object type based on image recognition results and sorting logic. This parameter flexibility enables high throughput and adaptability without requiring complex physical reconfiguration of the sortation system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11826787B2Systems and methods for providing singulation of objects for processing using object movement redistribution

Publication Date: 2023.11.28 BERKSHIRE GREY OPERATING CO INC

AI summary

A processing system including a singulation system is disclosed. The singulation system includes a conveying system for moving objects to be processed from a source area along a first direction, a detection system for detecting objects at the conveying system, and for selecting certain selected objects for redistribution on the conveying system, and a movement redistribution system for redistributing the certain selected objects on the conveying system for providing a singulated stream of objects.