Light-Permeable Scanning Window for Parcel Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing parcel handling and tracking systems struggle to accurately read identifying features on the hidden face of parcels, as these features are obscured by the surface the parcel rests on, leading to inaccurate readings and the need for linear scan cameras with limited resolution and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A parcel handling and tracking system that includes a movable, light-permeable scanning window capable of supporting the parcel and allowing a 2D scanning device to read identifying features on the hidden resting surface, eliminating the need for linear scan cameras and enhancing scanning accuracy and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a gap is created in the conveyor to expose the hidden face of the parcel for scanning, then the identifying feature on the hidden face becomes accessible to the scanner, but the system requires linear scan cameras with limited resolution and flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the parcel or creating a gap to expose the hidden face, the patent inverts the approach by placing a transparent window at the conveyor surface and positioning the scanner on the opposite side to read through the window. This allows the scanner to read the hidden face without requiring the parcel to be moved or a gap to be created, thereby maintaining high-resolution 2D scanning capabilities while accessing previously hidden identifying features.
2Measurement precision
If linear scan cameras are used to read identifying features through the gap, then the hidden face can be scanned, but the resolution and scanning capability are limited compared to 2D cameras
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a transparent window as an intermediary element that allows optical penetration between the scanner and the hidden face of the parcel. This window acts as a mediator that enables 2D cameras to read identifying features on the hidden face without direct line of sight, thereby maintaining high-resolution scanning capabilities while accessing previously unreachable surfaces.
3Reliability
If multiple cameras are positioned to read all faces of the parcel, then comprehensive tracking is achieved, but the base face remains out of reach as it contacts the conveyor surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the constraint of the conveyor surface by introducing a transparent window that separates the support function (conveyor surface) from the scanning function (transparent window). This allows the scanner to read through the window at the conveyor surface level, eliminating the need for additional cameras positioned below or beside the conveyor to read the base face, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining comprehensive tracking.
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 reliable and accurate reading of identifying features on all faces of parcels, including the hidden resting surface, without compromising camera performance or tracking system efficiency, thereby improving parcel tracking accuracy and reducing operational constraints.
Implementation Method 1
a light-permeable scanning window capable of supporting the parcel and allowing a 2D scanning device to read identifying features on the hidden resting surface
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed herein is a parcel handling and tracking system (1) allowing an all-around scanning of identifying features thanks to a scanning window (2), wherein the parcels are configured to sit at the scanning window on a resting surface (R) of the parcel itself. The scanning window (2) is light permeable to allow reading of identifying features (ID4) at the resting surface, possibly together with other identifying features at surfaces of the parcel (P) other than the resting surface (R).