Touchscreen Dimensioning Apparatus for Package Volume Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dimensioning technologies are costly, space-intensive, and unsuitable for measuring three-dimensional objects, particularly for small businesses and retail outlets that need to calculate dimensional weight for shipping purposes.
Innovation Solution
The development of touchscreen-based dimensioning systems using linear sensor strips and capacitive touchscreen sensors with slider capabilities, which allow for the measurement of linear dimensions and volume calculation of objects by processing electrical signals from touch inputs, enabling efficient and accurate determination of object dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional dimensioning systems are used, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device cost and space consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical dimensioning systems with a touchscreen-based electronic system. The touchscreen sensor element detects touch positions to determine object dimensions, substituting mechanical measurement mechanisms with electronic sensing and signal processing, thereby reducing device complexity and space while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a touchscreen surface that creates a digital representation (copy) of the object's footprint. By detecting touch positions around the object's perimeter, the system generates a digital outline that can be processed to determine dimensions without requiring physical measurement tools, reducing the need for complex mechanical structures
2Measurement precision
If vertical touchscreen technology is used for envelope dimensioning, then two-dimensional measurement capability is achieved, but three-dimensional object measurement and space efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the measurement capability from two-dimensional envelope scanning to three-dimensional object dimensioning by incorporating depth perception through touch position detection. The system measures length, width, and height by detecting touches at different positions and combining this data with object placement information, enabling versatile 3D measurement while maintaining a compact footprint
3Device complexity
If compact touchscreen-based systems are implemented, then device cost and space consumption are reduced, but measurement capability for three-dimensional objects must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the touchscreen system to perform multiple functions: it can measure two-dimensional envelopes by scanning edges and three-dimensional packages by detecting corner and edge positions. The same hardware platform handles different object types and measurement scenarios, providing universal dimensioning capability while maintaining compactness and cost-effectiveness
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
These systems provide a compact, cost-effective solution for determining the dimensions of objects, including cuboidal packages, facilitating accurate volume calculation and enabling efficient shipping charge computation, space optimization, and safe loading practices.
Implementation Method 1
a capacitive touchscreen sensor element with slider capability and configured to generate an outline of an object resting upon the sensor element responsive to a continuous touch about a periphery of the object
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus, methods and systems for obtaining one or more dimensions of an object employing, at least in part, touch sensors.