Perception-Guided Object Handling in Automated Linear Stations
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current object distribution systems rely heavily on human labor, are inefficient in handling objects of varying sizes and weights, and require a large number of collection bins, leading to high operational and physical space costs, as well as limitations in throughput and bin management.
Innovation Solution
A programmable motion device system that identifies objects using perception units and directs them to specific processing locations, utilizing an end effector to acquire and move objects along a programmable path, optimizing grasp points and trajectories for efficient sorting and distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If human workers manually sort objects to collection bins, then flexibility in handling various object types is maintained, but productivity and operational efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables objects to be automatically identified and routed without human intervention. Perception units automatically detect objects, determine their destinations based on identifying indicia, and direct them to appropriate collection bins, allowing the system to serve itself rather than requiring manual sorting operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical sorting operations with an automated system combining perception units, processing units, and induction elements. This substitution eliminates the need for human workers to physically handle and sort objects, dramatically improving productivity while maintaining adaptability through programmable control
2Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of collection bins are used to handle diverse object types, then adaptability improves, but device complexity and physical space requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic routing where collection bins are not permanently assigned to specific object types but are dynamically allocated based on real-time sorting needs. The processing unit can redirect objects to different bins as required, allowing a smaller number of bins to handle a larger variety of object types through flexible, changeable configurations
Solution Approach 2:
Collection bins serve multiple functions and multiple object types rather than being dedicated to single purposes. The same bin can receive different types of objects at different times based on system requirements, reducing the total number of bins needed while maintaining the ability to handle diverse object types
3Ease of operation
If objects are sorted in arrival order to collection bins, then processing simplicity is maintained, but productivity and throughput deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary identification and destination determination of objects as they arrive, allowing the processing unit to pre-plan sorting sequences and optimize bin allocation before actual sorting occurs. This preliminary processing enables more efficient throughput without sacrificing operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the processing unit continuously monitors object flow, bin status, and sorting patterns to dynamically adjust sorting decisions. This feedback loop enables the system to optimize throughput by learning from past sorting patterns while maintaining simple operation through automated control
Data Source
AI summary
A method of processing objects using a programmable motion device is disclosed. The method includes the steps of perceiving identifying indicia representative of an identity of a plurality of objects and directing the plurality of objects toward an input area from at least one input conveyance system, acquiring an object from the plurality of objects at the input area using an end effector of the programmable motion device, and moving the acquired object toward an identified processing location using the programmable motion device. The identified processing location is associated with the identifying indicia and the identified processing location is provided as one of a plurality of processing locations along a first direction. The step of moving the acquired object includes moving the programmable motion device along a second direction that is substantially parallel with the first direction.