Parcel Projection Indication Device for Sorting Error Detection

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The increasing volume of parcel circulation and diversity of parcel types pose challenges for effective and precise sorting, with existing systems limited by manual efficiency and error recognition in sorting processes.

Innovation Solution

A parcel sorting system incorporating a projection indication device that uses label readers, image sensors, and projectors to generate and project sorting instructions directly onto parcels, enhancing worker efficiency and error detection by displaying error indicators.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual sorting is used, then flexibility in handling various parcel types is maintained, but sorting efficiency and precision deteriorate due to time-consuming processes and human error

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesorting efficiencyVSAvoidsorting system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables parcels to be automatically identified and sorted through self-service mechanisms: label readers automatically capture parcel information, image sensors automatically track parcel positions, and the control unit automatically determines sorting destinations and projects guidance images, eliminating the need for manual intervention in each sorting step

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical sorting operations with an automated optical-electronic system: label readers and image sensors substitute for human visual inspection, the control unit substitutes for human decision-making, and the projector substitutes for human guidance, creating an automated sorting system that processes parcels more efficiently

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If automated projection systems are implemented, then sorting precision improves through error detection, but system complexity increases due to multiple components required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerror detection accuracyVSAvoidprojection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit serves multiple functions: it processes label information from label readers, analyzes position data from image sensors, determines sorting destinations, generates guidance images, and controls the projector. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, managing system complexity while maintaining high precision error detection capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If projection images are displayed on moving parcels, then worker efficiency improves through immediate error recognition, but tracking precision requirements increase to maintain image legibility

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworker sorting efficiencyVSAvoidparcel tracking precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements continuous feedback through image sensors that track parcel positions in real-time. The control unit receives position information from these sensors and uses it to dynamically adjust and update the projection images on moving parcels, ensuring the images remain accurately positioned and legible throughout the sorting process, thereby maintaining both worker efficiency and tracking precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Improves sorting efficiency and precision by allowing workers to recognize errors and target parcels with errors through projected images, reducing manual errors and increasing throughput in high-volume parcel sorting environments.

Implementation Method 1

a laser projection system to paint the selected display directly onto a selected exterior surface of the corresponding parcel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight projection: Light

Implementation Method 2

an acquisition device to capture indicia on each parcel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical scanning: Reflection

Data Source

PatentEP3647235B1Projection indication device, parcel sorting system, and projection indication method
Publication Date: 2023.09.20 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
  • EP3647235B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3647235B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3647235B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3B

AI summary

There is provided a projection indication device that generates a projection image to be projected on parcel based on a reading result of parcel identification information included in a label attached to the parcel, the device including: a processor; and a memory, in which by cooperating with the memory, the processor detects occurrence of an error, generates a projection image indicating the occurrence of the error in a case where the occurrence of the error is detected, and indicates to project the projection image on the parcel which is a target of the error.