Automated QR Code Detection for Stacked Gastronorm Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for identifying reusable Gastronorm food containers, such as those used in large kitchens, face challenges in efficiently and cost-effectively tracking a large number of containers, especially when stacked, due to limitations with RFID transponders and manual QR code scanning.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a mobile platform with a vertically movable detection device and a holding device that allows containers to be arranged one above the other, enabling rapid and semi-automatic identification of up to 16 containers using QR codes and barcodes, along with a label printer for human-readable labels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RFID transponders are used to identify Gastronorm containers, then identification reliability is improved, but cost increases and temperature resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical copies (QR codes or barcodes) printed on the containers instead of physical RFID transponders. These visual codes can be scanned to retrieve identification data, providing a cost-effective alternative that maintains identification functionality while avoiding the high cost and temperature limitations of RFID technology.
2Ease of manufacture
If manual QR code scanning is used to identify containers, then cost is reduced, but productivity deteriorates when processing large numbers of containers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual scanning operations with an automated scanning system that uses cameras or optical sensors to automatically detect and read QR codes or barcodes on containers. This automation eliminates the need for manual intervention while maintaining the cost-effectiveness of optical code technology, thereby significantly improving processing speed and productivity.
3Volume of moving object
If containers are stacked one above the other for storage and transport, then space utilization is improved, but detection complexity increases due to limited access to identifiers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places QR codes or barcodes on the vertical sides of stacked containers rather than only on top surfaces. This side placement ensures that identifiers remain accessible to scanning devices even when containers are stacked vertically, allowing automated systems to read codes from multiple levels without requiring physical access to each container's top surface.
4Productivity
If a large number of containers are processed quickly, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision may deteriorate due to rapid scanning conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses high-resolution cameras or optical sensors that capture images of QR codes or barcodes before processing. This preliminary capture allows for image enhancement, error correction, and verification steps to be performed, ensuring accurate identification even when containers are moving quickly through the processing system.
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
Enables quick and secure identification of reusable food containers, maintaining an up-to-date inventory and ensuring proper handling and tracking, even in high-volume scenarios, while reducing costs and improving hygiene by avoiding direct contact with potentially dirty containers.
Implementation Method 1
the detection device (18) can be moved at least in the vertical direction using at least one motor (20) in order to capture identifiers individually
Implementation Method 2
The vertical movement of the detection device can take place, for example, via a linear guide with a toothed belt drive
Data Source
Figure 1~1a
Figure 2~2a
Figure 3~3a
AI summary
The invention relates to a system (10) for automatically detecting identifiers (12) of stacked reusable food containers (14), comprising a mobile platform (16) and a detection device (18) attached thereto, which can be moved at least in the vertical direction by means of at least one motor (20) in order to detect the individual identifiers (12).