Vehicle Loading Rate Estimation Using Object Exclusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for estimating the loading rate of a vehicle's cargo platform are inaccurate when persons or objects other than cargo are present, as they are treated similarly to cargo.
Innovation Solution
A loading rate estimation apparatus that uses image recognition and tracking to differentiate between cargo, persons, and objects, and estimates the loading rate only when neither is present, employing cameras and depth sensors to improve accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional loading rate estimation methods are used, then the estimation can be performed continuously, but the accuracy deteriorates when persons or objects other than cargo are present
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the cargo platform detection into multiple zones: interior cargo platform area and exterior area within predetermined distance from doorway. The recognition section processes images from both interior and exterior cameras separately, tracking persons and objects in each zone to determine their presence or absence in the cargo platform, thereby improving measurement precision without requiring complete system redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The recognition section acts as an intermediary between the imaging system and the estimation section. It processes images from multiple cameras, tracks persons and objects, and provides presence/absence information to the estimation section, which then determines whether to perform loading rate estimation based on this information, resolving the contradiction between continuous operation and accurate measurement
2Measurement precision
If image recognition and tracking are implemented to differentiate cargo, persons, and objects, then loading rate estimation accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The recognition section performs multiple functions using the same image processing infrastructure: it tracks persons and objects in both interior and exterior images, determines their presence/absence in the cargo platform, and provides control signals to the estimation section. This multi-functionality improves measurement precision while avoiding redundant system components
Solution Approach 2:
The recognition section performs preliminary tracking and identification of persons and objects in images before the estimation section calculates loading rates. By pre-determining presence/absence status through image processing, the system ensures accurate loading rate estimation only when conditions are appropriate, improving precision without requiring complex real-time adjustments during estimation
Data Source
AI summary
A load factor estimation device with which it is possible to improve the accuracy of estimating a load factor. The load factor estimation device comprises: a recognition unit for acquiring a first image in which the inside of a loading platform is photographed and/or a second image in which a range within a prescribed distance from the entrance of the loading platform is photographed, recognizing and tracking an object other than a person and freight in the acquired image, thereby guessing whether or not an object other than the person and the freight exists in the loading platform; and an estimation unit for estimating the load factor of a vehicle provided with the loading platform when an object other than the person and the freight does exist in the loading platform.