Storage-retrieval management device, storage-retrieval management system, and storage-retrieval management method
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current storage-retrieval management systems for refrigerators lack effective management of storage positions within the repository, as they rely on learning models that may not accurately determine where objects are stored based on sensor input.
Innovation Solution
A storage-retrieval management device and system that includes an image capturer capturing images of markers on different storage structures within the refrigerator, determining storage positions by assessing whether these markers are visible or hidden, allowing for precise tracking of object placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If sensor input with learning model is used to determine storage/retrieval, then automation is improved, but measurement precision of storage position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the learning model-based determination system with an image processing system that captures actual visual information of the repository interior. The image capturer takes photographs of the repository, and image processing extracts marker positions from these images to determine precise storage locations, substituting the indirect sensor-based approach with direct visual observation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces markers as intermediary objects attached to storage locations within the repository. These markers serve as visual mediators between the storage positions and the image processing system, enabling accurate detection of storage locations through image capture and marker position extraction, thereby resolving the precision limitation of direct sensor-based methods.
2Measurement precision
If markers are provided on multiple storage structures at different vertical positions, then storage position management is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal image capture approach that can detect multiple markers across different vertical positions and storage structures simultaneously. The single image capturer and image processing system serve multiple functions: capturing the entire repository view, detecting all markers regardless of position, and determining storage locations for multiple shelves, thereby managing complexity through a unified multi-functional system rather than separate detection systems for each level.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage-retrieval management device includes: an image capturer that captures images each including markers as subjects from above a refrigerator that includes a first storage structure and a second storage structure, the images showing a scene in which an object is put into or taken out of the refrigerator, the markers being provided on the first storage structure and the second storage structure, the second storage structure being at a position different from a position of the first storage structure in a vertical direction; and a determiner that determines a storage position at which the object is stored, based on whether the markers included in the images are visible or hidden.