Package Parameter Estimation via Acoustic Vibration Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the distribution industry, accurately estimating the weight and gravity center of packages, especially integrated ones, is challenging due to variability in package size, shape, and material, leading to potential gripping failures and damage during robotic handling, as existing non-contact methods like X-ray inspection are inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A parameter estimation method using a device that acquires appearance information, vibrates the package, and detects vibrations to estimate parameters such as weight and gravity center through a relation between vibration data and parameters, employing an ultrasonic phased array for non-contact excitation and sensors for data acquisition, allowing for accurate gripping plan creation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If X-ray inspection device is used to estimate weight and gravity center, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity decreases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the X-ray inspection device with a vibration-based measurement system that uses acoustic waves to excite the package and sensors to detect vibration characteristics. This substitution eliminates the need for complex imaging equipment while achieving accurate weight and gravity center estimation through mechanical vibration analysis, thereby improving throughput and reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies mechanical vibration by using an acoustic wave generator to vibrate the package at specific frequencies and analyzing the vibration response characteristics. The vibration frequency, amplitude, and mode information are used to calculate the package weight and gravity center position, providing a fast and accurate non-contact measurement method that maintains high productivity.
2Measurement precision
If X-ray inspection device is used to estimate weight and gravity center, then measurement precision is improved, but device cost and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the expensive and large-sized X-ray inspection device with a compact vibration-based measurement system consisting of an acoustic wave generator and vibration sensors. This substitution dramatically reduces device cost and size while maintaining measurement precision through physical vibration analysis of the package.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses inexpensive acoustic wave generators and vibration sensors instead of costly X-ray equipment. The measurement system is simpler, more affordable, and easier to deploy, making it suitable for widespread use in distribution centers without requiring expensive specialized equipment.
3Device complexity
If visual check of corrugated carton is used to estimate parameters, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enhances the simple visual check system by adding vibration analysis. The acoustic wave generator excites the package, and vibration sensors detect the response characteristics that directly relate to weight and gravity center. This adds minimal complexity while dramatically improving measurement precision compared to visual inspection alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces vibration characteristics as an intermediary between the simple visual inspection system and the desired accurate parameter estimation. The vibration response acts as a mediator that contains information about weight and gravity center, allowing accurate estimation without complex imaging or X-ray equipment.
4Measurement precision
If package is placed in X-ray inspection device for measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity decreases due to handling time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses mechanical vibration that can be applied to packages in motion or at rest without requiring them to be placed in a dedicated inspection chamber. The acoustic wave generator can excite the package externally, and vibration sensors can detect the response quickly, eliminating the time-consuming handling and positioning required by X-ray inspection devices.
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
Enables accurate estimation of package parameters without physical contact, reducing the risk of damage and improving handling efficiency by creating precise gripping plans, while being cost-effective and suitable for high-throughput environments.
Implementation Method 1
acquiring appearance information including a shape information and a position information of at least one package of a plurality of packages each having a packing material and a content packed by using the packing material; vibrating the at least one package at least at one position selected in accordance with the appearance information
Implementation Method 2
acquiring at least one data showing a vibration of the at least one package, the at least one data being selected from the group consisting of: acceleration, speed and displacement
Data Source
AI summary
A parameter estimation method, comprises: acquiring appearance information including a shape information and a position information of at least one package; vibrating the at least one package at least at one position selected in accordance with the appearance information, and acquiring at least one data showing a vibration of the at least one package, and estimating a value of at least one parameter of the at least one package in accordance with a relation between the at least one data and the at least one parameter.