Remote Electronic Device Evaluation Using Camera-Based Microdefect Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for evaluating and trading pre-owned electronic devices lack efficient methods for remote identification, verification, and provision of services such as repair quotes, insurance/warranty services, and certification, especially for detecting microdefects invisible to the naked eye.
Innovation Solution
The development of remote distributed evaluation devices, including kiosks equipped with cameras and processors that capture images of pre-owned electronic devices, detect microdefects, and provide services like repair quotes, insurance/warranty quotes, certification, and a promise to purchase, using a network-connected control system for evaluation and reporting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If remote evaluation devices use basic visual inspection methods, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision for detecting microdefects deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an automated evaluation device that uses cameras and image processing algorithms to detect microdefects. The system captures multiple images from different angles and uses computational methods to analyze device conditions, substituting mechanical/visual inspection with optical and digital processing systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The evaluation process is divided into multiple stages: initial visual inspection, detailed imaging of specific components, algorithmic analysis of microdefects, and final evaluation. The system segments the evaluation into distinct phases handled by different components (cameras, processors, algorithms) to manage complexity while improving detection precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If evaluation devices provide comprehensive services (repair quotes, insurance, certification), then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The evaluation device is designed as a multi-functional platform that can provide various services including repair quotes, insurance/warranty quotes, certification, and trade-in evaluation. The same hardware infrastructure (cameras, processors, network connectivity) supports multiple evaluation protocols and service types, allowing one device to perform many functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a centralized control system and network infrastructure as intermediaries that coordinate the various service functions. Rather than each function being independently complex, the control system manages complexity centrally while the evaluation device focuses on data collection and processing, distributing the complexity management across the system architecture.
3Measurement precision
If the evaluation process includes detailed imaging and algorithmic analysis, then measurement precision for microdefects improves, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing multiple images from different angles and pre-processing them before final analysis. Quality images are captured and stored in advance, and algorithms are pre-configured to detect specific defect types, so that when evaluation is needed, the processed data can be quickly analyzed without time-consuming data collection.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses, methods and storage mediums associated with evaluating previously-owned electronic devices are described. An example apparatus includes an evaluation area configured to temporarily include within it a previously owned electronic device, and one or more cameras arranged to capture images of the previously owned electronic device within the evaluation area. The example apparatus also includes a processor configured to evaluate the previously-owned electronic device using at least the one or more cameras, and, based on the evaluation, provide at least one of a repair quote, a protection plan quote, a protection plan claim, a certification, or a promise to purchase for the previously-owned electronic device.