Object Volume Measuring Apparatus Using Sensor Grids
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing volume measurement methods for objects, such as parcels, in face-to-face reception systems are inaccurate and costly, especially when integrated with existing reception devices, requiring a low-cost solution for convenient and simple volume measurement.
Innovation Solution
An object volume measuring apparatus comprising detection sensors for measuring length and width, a distance measuring sensor for height, and a communication unit for wireless communication with the reception system, allowing for accurate volume calculation and integration with existing systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual measurement with tape measure is used, then the system can be integrated with existing face-to-face reception systems, but the measurement accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The volume measurement function is segmented from the existing reception system into an independent measuring apparatus. This allows the apparatus to use specialized sensors (detection sensors for length/width, distance measuring sensor for height) to achieve accurate automated measurement, while the reception system continues to handle customer service operations. The segmentation enables each system to optimize for its specific function without compromising integration capability.
Solution Approach 2:
A communication unit acts as an intermediary between the measuring apparatus and the reception system. This intermediary enables data exchange through wireless or wired connections, allowing the reception system to request volume measurements and receive results without direct integration. The intermediary preserves the independence of both systems while enabling seamless cooperation, thus maintaining adaptability while improving measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If automated volume measurement system is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring apparatus is designed with multi-functional sensors that serve multiple purposes. Detection sensors arranged in a grid pattern not only measure length and width but also detect object presence and position. The distance measuring sensor measures height and can also track object movement. This universality reduces the need for separate specialized components, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring apparatus operates autonomously without requiring manual intervention. The detection sensors automatically detect object edges and calculate dimensions, the distance measuring sensor automatically measures height, and the volume calculation unit automatically computes the result. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex control interfaces and manual operation mechanisms, reducing device complexity while achieving accurate automated measurement.
3Measurement precision
If independent volume measurement unit is added, then measurement accuracy is improved, but installation space and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The volume measurement apparatus is designed to be integrated with the existing reception counter or desk structure. The detection sensors are arranged on the surface where parcels are placed, and the distance measuring sensor is positioned above the same area. This merging approach allows the measurement function to be added to existing space without requiring separate dedicated installation areas, thus improving measurement accuracy while minimizing additional space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system utilizes the vertical dimension by positioning the distance measuring sensor above the parcel placement area. This vertical arrangement allows height measurement without occupying additional horizontal space. The detection sensors are arranged in a grid pattern on the horizontal surface, efficiently using the available two-dimensional space to measure length and width. This dimensional optimization enables accurate three-dimensional volume measurement within limited installation space.
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
The apparatus provides accurate and convenient volume measurement, enabling efficient operation within existing face-to-face reception systems while maintaining a low-cost structure, facilitating easy integration with existing devices.
Implementation Method 1
the detection sensor may be composed of an illumination sensor or a push sensor. when the detection sensor is an illumination sensor and an end of the object covers a portion of the detection sensor in a direction in which the edge extends, each of the length and the width may be calculated, based on the number of the covered detection sensor and an illumination level of the detection sensor
Implementation Method 2
the distance measuring sensor may be composed of an ultrasonic sensor, an infrared sensor, or a ToF (Time of Flight) camera sensor
Implementation Method 3
the distance measuring sensor may be composed of an ultrasonic sensor, an infrared sensor, or a ToF (Time of Flight) camera sensor
Implementation Method 4
the distance measuring sensor may be composed of an ultrasonic sensor, an infrared sensor, or a ToF (Time of Flight) camera sensor
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are an apparatus and method for measuring a volume of an object. The object volume measuring apparatus includes an area measuring unit that includes a detection sensor, which is arranged at predetermined spacing in a single row along lengthwise edges and widthwise edges of a plate respectively, where an object is placed, measures a length and a width according to the numbers of detection sensors lengthwise and widthwise respectively in which the edges are detected, and calculates an area of the object according to the measured length and width, a height measuring unit that is located above the plate and comprises a distance measuring sensor for measuring a height of the object when the object is placed, and an object calculation unit for calculating a volume of the object based on the area and the height.