Package Inspection Workflow Using X-Ray and History-Based Sorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inspection systems require manual operator intervention to determine the sorting destination of packages, leading to inefficiencies such as delayed sorting and misclassification of packages.
Innovation Solution
An inspection apparatus and program that utilize an EAD tag, camera, X-ray imaging, and ledger sheet readers to automate the sorting process, providing an operator with a verification screen that includes external appearance, X-ray, and historical data to efficiently sort packages into verified or non-verified categories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operator determination is used to sort packages, then flexibility in judgment is maintained, but sorting time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection apparatus performs self-service by automatically determining package sorting destinations using image recognition and machine learning, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention while maintaining accurate judgment through automated algorithms
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical system of manual operator judgment is replaced with an automated inspection apparatus that uses image capture, recognition processing, and machine learning algorithms to determine sorting destinations, thereby increasing productivity while maintaining judgment accuracy
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual sorting is performed, then operator discretion is maintained, but time consumption increases and throughput decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection apparatus uses feedback mechanisms where operators can correct automated sorting decisions, and these corrections are fed back into the machine learning system to improve future automated judgments, maintaining adaptability while reducing time consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary automated sorting based on image recognition and historical data before operator review, allowing operators to only intervene when necessary and thereby reducing overall sorting time while maintaining discretion for complex cases
3Productivity
If automated inspection is implemented, then sorting speed increases, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection apparatus is designed with multi-functionality, combining image capture, recognition processing, machine learning inference, and sorting control in a single integrated system, which increases productivity while managing complexity through consolidation rather than proliferation of separate components
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 enables efficient and accurate sorting of packages by automating the determination process, reducing human error and improving throughput in customs inspections.
Implementation Method 1
a camera (14) that acquires an image of external appearance (external appearance image) of the package
Implementation Method 2
an X-ray capturing apparatus (15) that acquires an image with X rays (X-ray image) of the package
Data Source
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AI summary
According to an embodiment, an inspection apparatus includes a communication interface and a processor. The communication interface acquires package information regarding a package being conveyed by a sorter that sorts the package and an operation signal generated based on an operation of an operator. The processor outputs reference information, based on past history in which inspection-result information indicating whether or not the package is a regulated-article candidate, generated based on the operation signal, and the package information are associated together, and the package information newly acquired.