Optical Parcel Dimensioning Using Standard Size Elements
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for determining the three-dimensional size of items, such as mail packages, are inefficient and inaccurate, often requiring manual measurement or rough estimates, which are time-consuming and costly.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a single optical sensor to scan a standard size element on the item's surface, combined with conveyor distance data, to calculate the item's dimensions by comparing pixel data and applying scaling factors, allowing for automated and precise determination of length, width, and height.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement or rough estimates are used to determine item dimensions, then measurement precision is poor, but processing time is excessive and costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement with an automated optical scanning system. An optical sensor captures images of standard size elements on items, and a processor automatically calculates dimensions by comparing pixel data against stored reference data, eliminating manual intervention and significantly reducing processing time while improving measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical copies (images) of standard size elements instead of physical measurement tools. By capturing images of the standard elements and processing their pixel dimensions, the system creates a digital reference framework that enables automatic dimension calculation for all items, streamlining the measurement process
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors or complex systems are used to determine three-dimensional size, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the optical sensor multi-functional by using it both to capture images of standard size elements for dimension calibration and to scan items for processing. This single sensor performs multiple functions that would traditionally require separate devices, reducing system complexity while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses standard size elements already present on items to provide their own calibration reference. The standard elements serve the dual purpose of identifying item type and providing dimensional calibration data, eliminating the need for separate calibration devices or complex measurement systems
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
This method significantly improves processing speed and reduces costs by enabling accurate, automated three-dimensional size determination of items using a single optical scanner, enhancing the functionality of item processing systems.
Implementation Method 1
an optical sensor configured to scan a surface of the item facing the optical sensor
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a system and method for automatically determining a three dimensional size of an item. The system may include an optical sensor scanning a surface of the item being transported on a conveyor spaced apart from the optical sensor by a conveyor distance, the surface including a standard size element having a first dimension. The system may also include a memory storing the first dimension and the conveyor distance. The system may also include a processor configured to calculate a second dimension of the surface based on a scanned image of the surface and a scanned image of the standard size element and the stored first dimension. The processor may obtain an item distance between the optical sensor and the surface and determine a height of the item based on the obtained item distance and the stored conveyor distance.