Shoe Part Recognition and Transfer for Precise Automated Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual methods in shoe manufacturing are resource-intensive and prone to high variability, making them inefficient and inconsistent.
Innovation Solution
An automated system that uses image recognition and part-transfer apparatuses with multiple cameras and lighting systems to identify and position shoe parts accurately, enabling precise placement and orientation of shoe parts through geometric coordinate mapping and automated manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated systems are introduced to improve manufacturing efficiency, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated manufacturing system is divided into distinct functional modules: image recording subsystem, processing subsystem, and part transfer subsystem. Each module performs a specific function (image capture, coordinate conversion and control signal generation, and physical part manipulation), allowing the complex system to be managed through modular components that can be independently optimized and maintained.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing system that converts image coordinates to manufacturing coordinates and generates control signals. This intermediary layer acts as a bridge between the image recording system and the part transfer apparatus, enabling automated control without requiring direct complex integration between all system components.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple cameras and lighting systems are used to improve measurement precision, then manufacturing precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs multiple cameras positioned at different locations (above, below, and at angles to the shoe part) to capture images from specific viewpoints. Each camera provides localized perspective data that is complementary to others, enabling precise three-dimensional reconstruction and positioning of shoe parts through coordinated multi-view imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates multiple optical copies (images) of the shoe part from different angles and positions using multiple cameras. These optical copies are then processed to generate accurate spatial coordinates and positioning information, allowing the system to determine part location and orientation without requiring direct physical measurement.
3Reliability
If automated part transfer apparatus is implemented to reduce variability, then reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses image recording to capture the actual position and orientation of shoe parts, processes this visual feedback information to determine precise coordinates, and uses this data to control the part transfer apparatus. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures accurate and consistent part placement while allowing the system to adapt to variations in part positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated system that uses optical imaging and computational processing to control part transfer. Instead of relying on manual positioning and mechanical gauges, the system uses image coordinate analysis and automated control signals to achieve precise part placement, reducing human variability and improving consistency.
Data Source
AI summary
Manufacturing of a shoe or a portion of a shoe is enhanced by automated placement of shoe parts. For example, a part-recognition system analyzes an image of a shoe part to identify the part and determine a location of the part. Once the part is identified and located, the part can be manipulated in an automated manner.