Optical Depth Sensor for Kiosk Package Dimensioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current self-service kiosks for package dimensioning and weighing often face inaccuracies and inefficiencies in measuring package dimensions and weight, which can lead to incorrect shipping cost calculations and resource misallocation.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing depth sensors with optical or infrared capabilities, integrated into a self-service kiosk, measures the distance between surfaces and calculates object dimensions based on differences in measured distances, with optional features like computer-vision-based object tracking and weighing scales for enhanced accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional dimensional scanners and scales are used in self-service kiosks, then package dimensioning and weighing can be performed automatically, but measurement inaccuracies occur leading to incorrect shipping cost calculations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical dimensional scanners and contact-based weighing scales with a depth-measuring system using optical sensors (time-of-flight or structured light technology). This substitution eliminates mechanical contact points and complex scanning mechanisms, providing more accurate and reliable depth measurements for package dimensioning while maintaining automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary transparent surface (glass or acrylic panel) between the optical sensor and the package. This intermediary allows the depth-measuring system to measure the depth of the package by detecting the light reflection from the package surface through the transparent panel, enabling accurate measurements without direct contact between the sensor and the package, thus improving measurement precision.
2Loss of time
If self-service kiosks are implemented to reduce carrier personnel involvement, then time and resources are saved, but measurement inaccuracies lead to resource misallocation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement systems with optical depth-sensing technology, which provides more accurate and consistent measurements. This improves the reliability of shipping cost calculations by eliminating errors from mechanical wear, calibration drift, and contact interference, ensuring that self-service operations maintain high accuracy without requiring carrier personnel intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the depth-measuring system continuously measures package dimensions and the system automatically adjusts and recalibrates based on measured data. This feedback loop ensures consistent measurement accuracy and allows the system to compensate for environmental variations, maintaining reliable shipping cost calculations throughout self-service operations.
3Ease of operation
If depth sensors are used to measure package dimensions through a transparent surface, then non-contact measurement is achieved, but the system must account for the surface thickness and refraction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calibration by measuring the thickness and optical properties of the transparent surface before package dimensioning. The system stores these calibration parameters and uses them to automatically compensate for refraction and thickness effects during actual measurements, simplifying the operational process while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical sensors with time-of-flight or structured light technology that can directly measure depth through the transparent surface by calculating the time for light to travel to and from the package surface. This substitution of traditional contact-based measurement methods with optical time-based measurement simplifies the overall system complexity by eliminating mechanical contact points and reducing the need for complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
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
The system provides accurate and efficient measurement of package dimensions and weight, reducing human error and resource allocation issues, while enabling self-service operations that streamline shipping processes for both customers and carriers.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one optical sensor being configured to measure distance to the first surface through the second surface and to measure distance to an object placed on the second surface
Data Source
AI summary
A system comprises a first surface; a second surface disposed opposite the first surface by a predetermined distance; and a depth-measuring system having at least one optical sensor disposed facing the first and second surfaces, the at least one optical sensor having a field of view covering at least a portion of the second surface, the at least one optical sensor being configured to measure distance to the first surface through the second surface and to measure distance to an object placed on the second surface.