Parcel Sorting Projection Device for Speed-Accuracy Trade-off

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Solution Overview

Problem

The increasing volume of parcel circulation has led to inefficiencies in manual parcel sorting, with workers limited by the need to visually check labels and sort parcels at predetermined speeds, resulting in reduced efficiency and potential errors.

Innovation Solution

A parcel sorting system that includes a projection instruction device using a processor and memory to generate projection images on parcels based on sensing information, including parcel identification and position data, to guide workers in sorting, reducing the need for manual label reading and improving accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual parcel sorting is used, then workers can sort parcels by visually checking labels, but the sorting speed is limited and errors may occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesorting speedVSAvoidsorting accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a projector as an intermediary device that displays sorting information directly on parcels. The projector acts as a mediator between the control system and the worker, providing visual guidance (arrows, colors) that indicates where to sort the parcel, thereby improving both speed and accuracy without requiring manual label reading

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of reading labels and making sorting decisions with an automated optical system. The projector uses light to display information, substituting the human visual inspection mechanism with an automated projection system that provides real-time sorting instructions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Speed

If the projection image is generated based on sensing information obtained at a previous time, then the processing speed is improved, but the position accuracy of the projection may be degraded due to parcel movement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocessing speedVSAvoidprojection position accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary processing of sensing information to obtain prediction data before the parcel reaches the projection point. By calculating the predicted position in advance based on movement trends, the system prepares the projection image timing and position data ahead of time, ensuring both speed and accuracy when the actual projection occurs

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses feedback from continuous sensing information to update and refine the predicted parcel position. The system continuously monitors parcel movement and adjusts the prediction based on actual movement patterns, ensuring the projection remains accurate even as the parcel moves through the sorting area

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10860855B2Instruction projecting device, package sorting system and instruction projecting method

Publication Date: 2020.12.08 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD

AI summary

There is provided an instruction projecting device which generates a projection image to be projected on a parcel based on sensing information of the parcel and parcel identification information specifying the parcel in an image, the device including: a processor; and a memory, in which by cooperating with the memory, the processor determines a direction to pick up the parcel based on the parcel identification information, and generates the projection image indicating the pick-up direction.