Parcel Barcode Imaging Control for High-Speed Scan Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Logistic centers face inefficiencies in parcel sorting due to unreadable barcodes and improper scanner settings, leading to delayed deliveries and increased resource allocation for reprocessing.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system that dynamically adjusts the field of view and settings of imaging devices, such as cameras, based on parcel dimensions and lighting conditions, using sensors like LIDAR and machine-learned models to ensure clear, focused images of barcodes for successful scanning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If scanner settings are fixed and not adjusted, then device complexity is reduced, but scanning success rate deteriorates due to varying parcel characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of imaging device parameters (field of view, exposure, focus) based on real-time parcel characteristics detected by sensors. The system transitions from static fixed settings to dynamic adaptive settings, allowing the scanner to automatically adjust to varying parcel sizes, shapes, and positions, thereby maintaining high scanning success rates without increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where sensor data about parcel characteristics is continuously monitored and used to adjust imaging parameters. The imaging device receives feedback from parcel detection sensors and automatically modifies its settings to optimize scanning conditions for each specific parcel, improving reliability while keeping the adjustment process automated and simple
2Productivity
If conveyor speed is increased to improve productivity, then output per unit time increases, but image quality deteriorates due to motion blur
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by detecting parcel characteristics and pre-adjusting imaging parameters before the scanning moment. Sensors detect parcel properties in advance, and the system prepares optimal imaging settings (exposure time, focus, field of view) before the parcel reaches the scanning position, ensuring high-quality images even at high conveyor speeds
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes imaging parameters (exposure time, aperture, focus distance) based on conveyor speed and parcel characteristics. When conveyor speed increases, the system adjusts exposure time and other parameters to compensate for reduced scanning time and potential motion blur, maintaining image quality while enabling higher throughput
3Adaptability or versatility
If field of view is widened to capture more parcel surfaces, then scanning coverage increases, but image focus deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by using sensors to detect which specific areas of the parcel require scanning and adjusting the field of view and focus accordingly. Instead of uniformly scanning the entire parcel surface, the imaging device concentrates focus on the specific label or barcode area identified by sensors, achieving both adequate coverage and sharp focus where needed
Solution Approach 2:
The field of view and focus settings are dynamically adjusted based on real-time parcel detection. The system transitions from static wide-angle scanning to dynamic focused scanning, where the field of view is optimized for each specific parcel configuration, maintaining both coverage and focus quality adaptively
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 approach significantly increases the success rate of scanning parcels, reducing reprocessing time and enhancing on-time delivery by optimizing imaging device settings and lighting conditions.
Implementation Method 1
using sensors like LIDAR and machine-learned models to ensure clear, focused images of barcodes for successful scanning
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods disclosed herein increase a scan rates of parcels within a material handling facility. In some instances, the systems and methods described herein focus an imaging device on a label attached to a parcel to capture image data of the label that is in focus. This permits the image data to be analyzed for discerning shipping identifiers that are used for sortation and/or processing the parcels. For example, a height of the parcel may be determined and a field of view (FOV) associated with capturing the image data may be correspondingly adjusted. Furthermore, other setting(s) associated with imaging the parcels may be adjusted. For example, lighting conditions may be adjusted to reduce glare, contrast, and/or brightness captured within the image(s), and/or other setting(s) of the imaging device may be updated, such as gain and exposure.