Shoe Part Recognition and Placement for Precise Automated Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shoe manufacturing methods are resource intensive and prone to high variability due to reliance on manual execution and inefficient assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
An automated system for shoe part placement that utilizes a part-recognition system to analyze images of shoe parts, determine their identity and orientation, and manipulate them automatically for precise placement and assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual assembly methods are used, then ease of operation is maintained, but productivity is low and manufacturing precision is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical assembly operations with an automated system comprising image capture devices, processing units, and robotic manipulation mechanisms. The system captures images of shoe parts, processes them to identify part types and orientations, and automatically positions parts for assembly, eliminating manual labor while maintaining operational capability.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual assembly methods are used, then device complexity is low, but manufacturing precision is poor and variability is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses image capture devices to create digital copies (images) of the shoe parts and their orientations. These images are processed to extract precise positional and orientational information, which then guides the automated assembly system. This copying and processing approach enables high manufacturing precision by accurately replicating the intended part arrangements.
3Productivity
If automated manipulation is implemented, then productivity increases, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by capturing images of shoe parts and processing them to determine part types and orientations before the actual assembly operation. This preliminary image capture and processing enables the automated system to plan and execute assembly operations more efficiently, reducing the energy required during the main assembly process by avoiding trial-and-error adjustments.
Data Source
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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.