Vacuum-Based End Effector Audio Sensing for Parcel Classification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing parcel transfer systems rely on vacuum sensors and high-resolution cameras for parcel engagement detection and classification, which are inefficient and costly, leading to prolonged processing times and reduced system throughput.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing audio data from microphones positioned on vacuum-based end effectors to detect parcel engagement and classify parcel types, employing a controller and neural networks to process audio signals for real-time parcel identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high-resolution cameras are used for parcel detection and classification, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the optical/mechanical camera-based detection system with an acoustic sensing system. Microphones capture sound waves generated during parcel engagement, and audio processing algorithms classify parcel types based on acoustic signatures. This substitution eliminates complex high-resolution camera hardware while achieving comparable or superior detection precision through acoustic analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an acoustic copy or representation of parcel engagement events. Instead of capturing visual images, the system captures sound wave patterns that represent the physical interaction between the end effector and parcel. These acoustic signatures serve as proxies for visual data, enabling classification without requiring complex imaging systems.
2Measurement precision
If high-resolution cameras are used for real-time parcel classification, then measurement precision is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces computationally intensive image processing with acoustic signal processing. Audio data from microphones requires significantly less computational power to analyze than high-resolution images, enabling real-time parcel classification with faster processing speeds while maintaining accurate detection and classification capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter being measured from visual characteristics to acoustic characteristics. By detecting sound frequency, amplitude, and temporal patterns during parcel engagement, the system achieves rapid classification based on acoustic signatures rather than visual features, dramatically reducing processing time while maintaining precision.
3Measurement precision
If vacuum sensors are used for engagement detection, then measurement capability is provided, but information completeness is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the acoustic sensing system multi-functional. The same microphone array that detects engagement events also captures parcel type information through acoustic signatures. A single acoustic sensing system performs both engagement detection and parcel classification, eliminating the need for separate sensor systems and providing comprehensive information about both engagement status and parcel characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through acoustic monitoring during the engagement process. The microphones continuously capture sound waves generated by the end effector interacting with the parcel, providing real-time feedback about both engagement status and parcel properties. This feedback loop enables dynamic adjustment and comprehensive information gathering without requiring multiple separate sensing systems.
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
Enables efficient and cost-effective parcel classification and engagement detection, improving system throughput by reducing reliance on high-resolution cameras and enhancing real-time processing capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of vacuum cups (24a-24d) configured to be placed in fluid communication with a vacuum source (40)
Implementation Method 2
one or more microphones (30) positioned below the upper surface (22a) of the base plate (22) and mounted to the base plate (22) and/or the one or more vacuum cups (24a-24d)
Data Source
AI summary
A method for detecting parcel engagement and classifying parcels includes steps of: (i) processing, by a processor, audio data received from one or more microphones, the audio data corresponding to a robot engaging a parcel; and (ii) classifying, by the processor, the parcel as a particular parcel type based on the audio data corresponding to the robot engaging the parcel. The one or more microphones may be positioned in proximity to one or more vacuum cups of a vacuum-based end effector of the robot to obtain audio data corresponding to the one or more vacuum cups engaging the parcel for transfer.