Package Video Tracking Using Delivery Images and Scene Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Installed cameras often have a limited field of view and may not capture images of packages after delivery, and the appearance of packages may not be clear, leading to complications in monitoring and guarding against theft.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves obtaining delivery notifications with images, comparing them to a scene model of the property, and generating a package model to track the package's location, using camera images from multiple perspectives and sensors to verify delivery and monitor package movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If installed cameras are used to monitor package delivery, then package monitoring capability is provided, but the limited field of view prevents clear capture of package appearance and location
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from relying on a single fixed camera view to integrating multiple image sources including delivery person captured images, scene model data, and live camera feeds. This multi-dimensional approach to image acquisition overcomes the field of view limitations of any single camera by combining perspectives from different locations and time points.
2Loss of information
If delivery person captures package images manually, then package appearance is clearly documented, but automation and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by having the delivery person capture package images and create a scene model during the delivery process itself. This preliminary documentation of package appearance and location enables automated verification later, combining manual data collection with automated processing to maintain both information quality and operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the package appearance through the delivery person's captured image and stores it in the scene model. This digital copy serves as a reference for automated verification against future camera captures, eliminating the need for continuous manual monitoring while preserving detailed package appearance information.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple cameras are installed to expand field of view, then package coverage is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system makes the existing fixed camera serve multiple functions: it monitors for package delivery events, captures live images for verification, and provides ongoing package location tracking. By combining this with periodic delivery person captured images and scene model data, the system achieves comprehensive monitoring without requiring multiple dedicated cameras for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are methods, systems, and apparatus for monitoring delivered packages using video. A method includes obtaining a notification of a delivery of a package at a property that includes a first image depicting the package; obtaining a second image captured by a camera at the property; determining, using the first image and the second image, that the package has been delivered to the property; generating a package model that represents an appearance of the package; and tracking a location of the package for use in determining whether to provide an alert to a device about the location of the package. Determining that the package has been delivered to the property comprises: comparing the first image to a model of a scene of the property; determining that the first image satisfies similarity criteria for matching the model of the scene; and determining that the second image likely depicts the package.