U.S. patent application number 13/993035 was filed with the patent office on 2014-03-06 for apparatus, systems and methods for using handheld measurement devices to create on-demand packaging.
This patent application is currently assigned to PACKSIZE LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Niklas Pettersson. Invention is credited to Niklas Pettersson.
Application Number | 20140059981 13/993035 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46245100 |
Filed Date | 2014-03-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140059981 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Pettersson; Niklas |
March 6, 2014 |
APPARATUS, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USING HANDHELD MEASUREMENT
DEVICES TO CREATE ON-DEMAND PACKAGING
Abstract
Methods, apparatus, assemblies, and systems relate to producing
on-demand packaging. For example, packaging can be automatically
produced on-demand and be sized and configured for use with a
customized set of items and/or a customized arrangement of items.
In one aspect, one or more items are arranged. The one or more
items are then measured using a measurement device. The measurement
device includes, in some aspects, a bracket that engages the
arranged one or more items. The bracket may, in some embodiments,
elevate a measurement component relative to the arranged one or
more items so as to provide clear line of sight unobstructed by the
arranged one or more items. Measurements in three dimensions may be
obtained and used to create a custom, on-demand package.
Inventors: |
Pettersson; Niklas; (Sandy,
UT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Pettersson; Niklas |
Sandy |
UT |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
PACKSIZE LLC
Salt Lake City
UT
|
Family ID: |
46245100 |
Appl. No.: |
13/993035 |
Filed: |
December 15, 2011 |
PCT Filed: |
December 15, 2011 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2011/065054 |
371 Date: |
November 19, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61423567 |
Dec 15, 2010 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
53/504 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65B 2210/04 20130101;
G01B 21/02 20130101; G01B 11/00 20130101; B65B 5/024 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
53/504 |
International
Class: |
B65B 5/02 20060101
B65B005/02 |
Claims
1. A measurement device adapted to measure an arrangement of one or
more to-be-packaged items in each of three dimensions, the
measurement device comprising: an electronic measurement component,
wherein the electronic measurement component includes: a first end;
and an emission mechanism configured to direct a measurement
element in a direction generally normal to the first end; and a
bracket attached to the electronic measurement component, wherein
the bracket includes a first engagement surface generally aligned
with the first end of the electronic measurement component.
2. The measurement device recited in claim 1, wherein the bracket
is an angle bracket.
3. The measurement device recited in claim 1, wherein the bracket
includes at least first and second surfaces, the first and second
surfaces being offset at an angle that is at least about ninety
degrees.
4. The measurement device recited in claim 1, wherein the bracket
includes at least two portions, wherein a first portion attaches to
the electronic measurement component and wherein the second portion
includes the first engagement surface and is offset relative to the
electronic measurement component.
5. The measurement device recited in claim 4, wherein the second
portion is offset in a direction generally parallel to the first
end of the electronic measurement component.
6. The measurement device recited in claim 1, wherein the bracket
includes a dual angle construction.
7. The measurement device recited in claim 6, wherein the dual
angle construction includes: an engagement angle, the engagement
angle including the first engagement surface; and an attachment
angle, the attachment angle including a first attachment surface
configured to attach to the electronic measurement component.
8. The measurement device recited in claim 6, wherein the dual
angle construction includes two angles arranged back-to-back.
9. The measurement device recited in claim 8, wherein the two
angles include generally parallel first surfaces and generally
parallel second surfaces, and wherein the two angles are secured
together along at least a portion of the generally parallel second
surfaces.
10. The measurement device recited in claim 9, wherein the two
angles are at least partially offset a distance extending in a
direction generally parallel to the second surfaces and generally
perpendicular to the first surfaces of the two angles.
11. The measurement device recited in claim 1, wherein the emission
mechanism is configured to extend or emit at least one of a laser,
a sound wave, or a measuring tape.
12. The measurement device recited in claim 1, wherein the
electronic measurement component is configured to measure
dimensions obtained in three orthogonal directions.
13. The measurement device recited in claim 1, wherein the
electronic measurement component is configured to communicate with
a package production machine by transmitting dimensional
information to the package production machine.
14. The measurement device recited in claim 13, wherein the package
production machine is configured to use the dimensional information
received from the electronic measurement component to design a
package template for the one or more to-be-packaged items.
15. The measurement device recited in claim 14, wherein the package
production machine is configured to produce the package template
from raw production materials based on the dimensional information
received from the electronic measurement component.
16. The measurement device recited in claim 13, wherein the package
production machine comprises a package design engine.
17. The measurement device recited in claim 16, wherein the package
design engine is adapted to design a packaging template based on
dimensional information received from the electronic measurement
component.
18. The measurement device recited in claim 17, wherein the package
design engine is configured to automatically select a packaging
template style from a plurality of packaging template styles based
on the dimensional information of the one or more to-be-packaged
items.
19. The measurement device recited in claim 18, wherein the
plurality of packaging template styles include at least a one-piece
folding box template and a two-piece box with separate top and
bottom portions.
20. The measurement device recited in claim 16, wherein the package
design engine is adapted to design a packaging template based on
the proportions of the one or more to-be-packaged items.
21. The measurement device recited in claim 13, wherein the package
production machine comprises a production system that is adapted to
produce a package template for the one or more to-be-packaged items
based on the dimensional information received from the electronic
measurement component.
22. The measurement device recited in claim 13, wherein the package
production machine produces the package template by cutting,
creasing, scoring, perforating, or otherwise manipulating raw
production materials.
23. The measurement device recited in claim 1, wherein the bracket
further includes a second engagement surface, wherein at least one
of the first or second engagement surfaces defines cut corners.
24. The measurement device recited in claim 1, wherein the bracket
is selectively detachable from the electronic measurement
component.
25. A system for producing on-demand, custom sized packages,
comprising: a measurement device, wherein the measurement device
includes: an electronic measurement component, the electronic
measurement component being capable of obtaining measurements made
in at least three dimensions; one or more angle brackets secured to
the electronic measurement component, wherein each of the one or
more angle brackets includes at least an engagement angle
configured to engage an arrangement of one or more to-be-packaged
items to facilitate proper positioning of the electronic
measurement component relative to the to-be-packaged items.
26. The system recited in claim 25, wherein the engagement angle
includes at least a first engagement surface generally aligned with
an emission end of the electronic measurement component.
27. The system recited in claim 26, wherein the engagement angle
includes at least a second engagement surface extending from the
first engagement surface and offset from the electronic measurement
component by a distance extending in a direction generally parallel
to the first engagement surface or the emission end of the
electronic measurement component.
28. The system recited in claim 25, further comprising: a package
production machine communicatively coupleable to the electronic
measurement device, wherein the package production machine is
configured to obtain dimensional information obtained by the
electronic measurement device and design and produce a package
template from raw production materials.
29. The system recited in claim 28, wherein the package production
machine is communicatively coupled to the electronic measurement
device using a wireless or wired connection.
30. The system recited in claim 29, wherein the package production
machine is adapted to receive the measurements obtained by the
electronic measurement device.
31. The system recited in claim 30, wherein the package production
machine comprises: a package design engine adapted to design a
packaging template based on the measurements obtained by the
electronic measurement component; and a production system
communicatively connected to the package design engine, the
production system being adapted to produce the package template
designed by the package design engine.
32. The system recited in claim 31, wherein the package design
engine is configured to automatically select a packaging template
style from a plurality of packaging template styles based on the
proportions of the measurements obtained by the electronic
measurement component.
33. The system recited in claim 31, wherein the package production
machine produces the package template by cutting, creasing,
scoring, perforating, or otherwise manipulating raw production
materials.
34. An angle bracket for use in a custom package production system,
the angle bracket including: a first angle defined by a first plate
and a second plate, the first and second plates being generally
perpendicular relative to each other, the first and second plates
defining at least two engagement surfaces for engaging an
arrangement of one or more to-be-packaged items; and a second angle
defined by a third plate and a fourth plate, the third and fourth
plates being generally perpendicular relative to each other, the
third plate defining an attachment surface for connecting the first
angle to a measurement device, and the fourth plate defining a
transition surface for connecting the third plate to the first
angle, wherein the first plate and the third plate are generally
parallel and the second plate and the fourth plate are generally
parallel, and wherein the first plate and the second plate are
offset from each other by a distance, the distance extending in a
direction generally parallel to the second plate and the fourth
plate.
35. The angle bracket recited in claim 34, wherein the first angle
has a first width, and wherein the second angle has a second width,
the second width being less than the first width.
36. A system for producing on-demand, custom packages, comprising:
a handheld measurement device, wherein the measurement device
includes: an electronic measurement component adapted to obtain at
least three dimensional measurements of one or more to-be-packaged
items; a bracket secured to the electronic measurement component,
wherein the bracket is adapted to engage with one or more surfaces
of the one or more to-be-packaged items to facilitate proper
positioning of the electronic measurement component relative to the
one or more to-be-packaged items in order to accurately obtain the
at least three dimensional measurements; a stop component, wherein
a surface of the one or more to-be-packaged items that is opposite
to the surface engaged by the bracket and the stop component are
configured to be placed adjacent to one another to facilitate
obtaining of the at least three dimensional measurements; and a
package production machine communicatively linked to the
measurement device, the package production machine having: a
package design component configured to receive the at least three
dimensional measurements from the electronic measurement component
and design a package template using the at least three dimensional
measurements; and a production component configured to access the
package template design and use available raw packaging materials
to produce the package template, wherein the production component
includes tools to perform any combination of making cuts, scores,
perforations, and/or creases.
37. The system recited in claim 36, wherein the bracket comprises:
an engagement angle defined by an upper plate and a back plate, the
upper plate and the back plate being perpendicular and integrally
formed, wherein each of the upper plate and the back plate have an
interior surface configured to engage a surface adjacent a corner
of the one or more to-be-packaged items.
38. The system recited in claim 37, wherein the bracket comprises:
an attachment angle defined by a transition plate and a mounting
plate, the transition plate being perpendicular to, and integral
with, the mounting plate, wherein the transition plate is secured
to an exterior surface of the back plate and is vertically offset
with respect thereto, such that the mounting plate is parallel to
the upper plate but resides in a plane offset with respect
thereto.
39. The system recited in claim 36, wherein the electronic
measurement component comprises: a processor; and a light beam
emitter and receiver, wherein the light beam emitter and receiver
are communicatively linked to the processor, and wherein the light
beam emitter and receiver are configured to be selectively
activated and to thereby collectively determine a distance based on
emission and reception of a light beam.
40. The system recited in claim 36, wherein the stop component
comprises a handheld stop component.
41. The system recited in claim 36, wherein the stop component
comprises one or more walls or a surface of a table.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 61/423,567, filed on Dec. 15,
2010, entitled APPARATUS, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USING HANDHELD
MEASUREMENT DEVICES TO CREATE ON-DEMAND PACKAGING, which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] With the increasing availability of merchandise, products,
and other items not only locally, but through a global market, the
need to properly and efficiently package such materials for
shipment and delivery has never been more important. Products that
are improperly packaged are more likely to be damaged on arrival.
Damaged products can result in a significant cost to the provider
if the product needs to be returned, replaced, or even if a
frustrated consumer decides simply to cancel a purchase.
Fortunately, available packaging systems can now be used to produce
virtually any style of packaging, including packaging that can
safely enclose and store one or more products.
[0003] Perhaps the single biggest factor in producing packaging for
a product is that the packaging be designed to fit the contained
product as precisely as possible. With a more precise fit, the
contained item or product not only is less likely to be damaged,
but the need for inner packaging is also reduced and possibly
eliminated. In particular, when packaging materials (e.g.,
corrugated cardboard, paper, etc.) are used to create a box or
other packaging design, the materials are often creased and folded
as near to a right angle possible. Creasing and folding at right
angles increases strength characteristics of the packaging
materials, thereby giving a resulting box a correspondingly
increased resistance to damage when stacked, transported, moved,
and the like.
[0004] A standard box has twenty-four right angles making up its
rectilinear form. If one or more angles deviate from a right angle
by more than even a few degrees, other angles can also be comprised
and the strength of a resulting box reduced. When strength
decreases, the risk of damage or loss to the enclosed item(s)
increases. Likewise when packaging fits loosely, similar risks of
damage or loss can occur as the sides of the packaging can bow, the
corners may sag, and the right angles that make the package strong
may be lost.
[0005] Using boxes or other packaging that provide a more precise
fit can thus provide a dramatic reduction in loss and damage. A
more precise fit also produces other significant savings, such as,
for example, reducing in the amount of material used in producing a
box, reducing and potentially eliminating inner packaging, reducing
postage and handling fees, reducing time at the pack line, and
increasing transportation yield.
[0006] For instance, in the fulfillment industry, it is estimated
that shipped items are typically packaged in boxes that are about
40% larger than the shipped items. Boxes that are too large for a
particular item are more expensive than a box that is custom sized
for the item due to the cost of the excess material used to make
the larger box. When an item is packaged in an oversized box,
filling material (e.g., Styrofoam, foam peanuts, paper, air
pillows, etc.) is often placed in the box to prevent the item from
moving inside the box and to prevent the box from caving in when
pressure is applied (e.g., when boxes are taped closed or stacked).
These filling materials further increase the cost associated with
packing an item in an oversized box. Furthermore, customized sized
boxes also reduce the shipping costs associated with shipping items
compared to shipping the items in oversized boxes. A shipping
vehicle filled with boxes that are 40% larger than the packaged
items is much less cost efficient to operate than a shipping
vehicle filled with boxes that are custom sized to fit the packaged
items. In other words, a shipping vehicle filled with custom sized
packages can carry a significantly larger number of packages, which
can reduce the number of shipping vehicles required to ship that
same number of items. Accordingly, in addition or as an alternative
to calculating shipping prices based on the weight of a package,
shipping prices are often affected by the size of the shipped
package. Thus, reducing the size of an item's package can reduce
the price of shipping the item.
[0007] Existing packaging equipment permits a manufacturer,
producer, or vendor to key in a desired box template or potentially
the desired dimensions of a box or other package. The equipment can
then automatically generate a box template with appropriate cuts
and creases. For high volume items, box sizes may be pre-fabricated
since repeated sales and/or storage of such items makes it
economically feasible to design a package specific to such item or
collection of items.
[0008] However, it is often not feasible to pre-select box sizes
and/or pre-fabricate boxes for low volume items, specialty items,
unique collections of items, etc., at least not in a manner that
provides a precise fit. For example, a retailer operating an online
store may have thousands of different items, and could receive an
order for any number of different items, such that the combined
size, shape, weight, and other configuration of a desired package
would be virtually impossible to predict beforehand. Such
combinations have heretofore made it difficult to produce
customized packaging economically, due at least in part to the time
needed to arrange and measure the items, and key in a box size for
each order that includes multiple items. Thus, retailers have
generally been forced to select a box from available boxes of
standard sizes and fill in the gaps within the box with internal
packaging materials.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0009] Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a
system for creating on-demand packaging based on a physical
arrangement of items to be placed within the created packaging.
Embodiments of the present disclosure include systems, machines,
methods, assemblies, and computer-readable media usable to
efficiently and automatically produce customized packaging for a
wide variety of combinations of different items and products.
[0010] According to one example aspect, a measurement device is
disclosed and is adapted to measure an arrangement of one or more
to-be-packaged items in each of three dimensions. According to at
least one aspect, the measurement device may include an electronic
measurement component and a bracket. The electronic measurement
component may include a first end and an emission mechanism
configured to direct a measurement element in a direction generally
normal to the first end. The bracket may be attached to the
electronic measurement component. The bracket may include a first
engagement surface generally aligned with the first end of the
electronic measurement component.
[0011] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a measurement bracket is an angle
bracket.
[0012] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a bracket includes at least first and second
surfaces, with the first and second surfaces being offset at an
angle that is at least about ninety degrees.
[0013] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a bracket includes at least two portions. A
first portion attaches to an electronic measurement component and a
second portion includes a first engagement surface and is offset
relative to an electronic measurement component.
[0014] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a second portion of a bracket is offset in a
direction generally parallel to a first end of an electronic
measurement component.
[0015] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a bracket includes a dual angle
construction.
[0016] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a bracket defines an engagement angle that
includes a first engagement surface, and defines an attachment
angle including a first attachment surface configured to attach to
an electronic measurement component.
[0017] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a dual angle bracket has two angles arranged
back-to-back.
[0018] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a bracket includes generally parallel first
surfaces and two generally parallel second surfaces, with two
angles being secured together along at least a portion of generally
parallel second surfaces.
[0019] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, two angles of a bracket are at least
partially offset in a direction that extends generally parallel to
second surfaces and/or generally perpendicular to first
surfaces.
[0020] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, an emission mechanism is configured to extend
or emit at least one of a laser, sound wave, ultrasonic wave, or
measuring tape.
[0021] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, an electronic measurement component is
configured to measure and store dimensions obtained in three
orthogonal directions.
[0022] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, an electronic measurement component is
configured to display three orthogonal dimensions as they are
obtained, and/or simultaneously.
[0023] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, an electronic measurement component is
configured to communicate with a package production machine by
transmitting dimensional information to the package production
machine.
[0024] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a bracket further includes a second
engagement surface, and at least one of first or second engagement
surfaces has cut corners.
[0025] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a bracket is selectively detachable from an
electronic measurement component.
[0026] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a system for producing on-demand or custom
packaging includes a measurement device having an electronic
measurement component and an angle bracket detachably secured to
the electronic measurement component. The electronic measurement
component is capable of obtaining and simultaneously storing
measurements made in at least three dimensions. The angle bracket
includes an engagement angle configured to engage an arrangement of
one or more to-be-packaged items, and includes an attachment angle
coupled to the engagement angle and sized to be detachably secured
to the electronic measurement component.
[0027] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, an engagement angle includes a first
engagement surface generally aligned with an emission end of an
electronic measuring component and/or an emission mechanism
thereof.
[0028] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, an engagement angle includes at least a
second engagement surface extending from a first engagement surface
and offset from an electronic measurement component by a distance
extending in a direction generally parallel to the first engagement
surface or an emission end of the electronic measurement
component.
[0029] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a package production machine is
communicatively coupleable to an electronic measurement device, and
the package production machine is configured to receive dimensional
information obtained by the electronic measurement device and
dynamically and on-demand design and produce a package template
from raw production materials.
[0030] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a package production machine is
communicatively coupled to an electronic measurement device using a
wireless or wired connection.
[0031] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, an angle bracket is used in a custom package
production system and includes a first angle and a second angle.
The first angle is defined by a first plate and a second plate. The
first and second plates are generally perpendicular relative to
each other, and define at least two engagement surfaces for
engaging an arrangement of one or more to-be-packaged items. The
second angle is defined by a third and a fourth plate, the third
and fourth plates being generally perpendicular relative to each
other. The third plate defines an attachment surface for connecting
the first angle to a measurement device, and the fourth plate
defines a transition surface for connecting the third plate to the
first angle.
[0032] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a first plate and a third plate are generally
parallel and a second plate and a fourth plate are generally
parallel.
[0033] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a first plate and a second plate are offset
from each other by a distance extending in a direction generally
parallel to a second plate and/or a fourth plate.
[0034] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a first angle has a first width and a second
angle has a second with, with the second width being less than the
first width.
[0035] In another aspect, a method is disclosed for producing a
customized, on-demand package. In the method, one or more items
that are to be packaged are identified and/or arranged in some
manner. First, second, and third measurements are obtained using an
electronic measuring device. The measurements are provided to a
package production machine. The package production machine receives
dimensions of the arrangement of items, designs a package template,
and produces a package template.
[0036] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a method includes using a handheld electronic
measuring device to obtain first, second, or third measurements of
an arrangement of items.
[0037] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a stop component is positioned opposite an
electronic measurement device when obtaining at least one
measurement.
[0038] In another aspect that may be combined with any one or more
other aspects herein, a handheld electronic measurement device
communicates with the package production machine in a wireless or
wired manner, or using removable storage media.
[0039] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of
concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in
the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify
key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter,
nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of
the claimed subject matter.
[0040] Additional features and advantages of the embodiments
disclosed herein will be set forth in the description which
follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may
be learned by the practice of the embodiments disclosed herein. The
features and advantages of the disclosed embodiments and variations
thereof may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments
and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims.
These and other features of the present disclosure will become more
fully apparent from the following description and appended claims,
or may be learned by the practice of the embodiments as set forth
hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0041] To further clarify various aspects of embodiments of the
present disclosure, a more particular description of various
features and aspects will be rendered by reference to specific
embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings.
It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical
embodiments of the disclosure and are therefore not to be
considered limiting of its scope, nor are the figures necessarily
drawn to scale. The embodiments herein will be described and
explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of
the accompanying drawings in which:
[0042] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a system architecture
including a measurement apparatus and a packaging production
machine;
[0043] FIG. 2A illustrates an orthogonal view of a measurement
apparatus usable in the system architecture of FIG. 1;
[0044] FIG. 2B illustrates a side view of the measurement apparatus
of FIG. 2A;
[0045] FIG. 3A illustrates an exploded view of the measurement
apparatus of FIG. 1, showing a handheld device detached from a
measurement assisting bracket;
[0046] FIGS. 3B-3F illustrate additional views of the measurement
assistance bracket of FIG. 3A;
[0047] FIG. 4 illustrates a flow chart of a method of producing a
customized package for one or more items;
[0048] FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate obtaining a first measurement for
a customized package;
[0049] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate obtaining a second measurement
for a customized package;
[0050] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate obtaining a third measurement for
a customized package;
[0051] FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of obtaining a first
measurement for a customized package; and
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
[0052] Example embodiments of the present disclosure are directed
to apparatus, methods, systems, assemblies, and architectures for
creating on-demand packaging. More particularly, exemplary
embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to systems,
machines, and assemblies, usable to efficiently and automatically
produce customized packaging for a wide variety of combinations of
different items. Accordingly, example embodiments of the present
disclosure may be utilized to efficiently produce packaging
on-demand. For instance, such packaging may be customized for a
single item or a combination of items in any manner. Such custom
and/or on-demand packaging may reduce the likelihood of damage or
loss to the items, reduce costs associated with packaging materials
or supplies, reduce handling costs, reduce packaging time, or
provides any of a number of other benefits, or any combination of
the foregoing.
[0053] With reference now to FIG. 1, one example embodiment of an
on-demand packaging system 100 is illustrated. The illustrated
on-demand packaging system includes a packaging station 102, a
measurement device 104 and a package production machine 106. The
package production machine 106 may further include one or more
sub-systems. For instance, the package production machine 106 may
include a package design engine 108 and/or a production system 110.
The operation of such components of the on-demand packaging system
100 is described in greater detail hereafter.
[0054] For instance, in accordance with one embodiment, the
packaging station 102 may be any location at which one or more
to-be-packaged items are gathered. Such items may be gathered for
insertion into a package, for arranging in a manner simulating how
they will be placed when packaged, for transport of the items, or
in any other suitable manner. By way of illustration, in one
embodiment, the packaging station 102 may be a conveyor belt,
table, arranging station, or any other suitable location(s).
[0055] Upon placement of one or more items at the packaging station
102, the items may be measured using the measurement device 104.
Operation of the measurement device 104 may occur in any suitable
manner, including those disclosed herein. For instance, a single
item may be placed at the packaging station 102, and the
measurement device 104 may obtain dimensional information about the
single item. Such measurements may include, for instance, a full
scan of the item, three measurements (e.g., height, width, and
length) for the item, or any other suitable type of
measurement.
[0056] The measurement device 104 may also be used to obtain
information about more than a single item. For instance, two or
more items may be selected for packaging together, and can be
arranged at the packaging station 102. The measurement device 104
may then obtain dimensional information about the collection of
items. For instance, height, width, and length information may be
obtained for the collective set of items, rather than for each item
individually. A full scan may also be obtained to obtain
three-dimensional information or other dimensional analysis.
[0057] Once the measurement device 104 has obtained desired
dimensional information, the measurement device 104 may transfer
collected data to the package production machine 106. The package
production machine 106 may be primarily responsible for producing a
template that can be assembled into a package having desired a
desired configuration. By way of illustration, the package
production machine 106 optionally includes the package design
engine 108. The package design engine 108 may be usable to design a
template based on supplied information, such as the dimensions of a
desired package. There may be multiple styles or types of packages
that can be produced. For instance, one type of package may be a
one-piece folding box having full-size flaps; another may be a
two-piece box with separate top and bottom portions. These examples
are merely illustrative and other types of packages may also be
available.
[0058] The package production machine 106 can use a particular box
style and input the dimensions or other information provided by the
measurement device to determine the precise locations of sections
and segments of a box template. Optionally, the package design
engine 108 may automatically select the type of package to be
produced, although in other embodiments an operator of the package
production machine 106 may select a type of package, or there may
be a combination of manual and automatic processes. For instance,
the package design engine 108 may evaluate the dimensional
information and make various recommendations to the operator.
Moreover, in some aspects, the package design engine 108 may swap
the measured dimensions to evaluate different potential templates,
thereby performing real-time design optimization, and such may be
performed automatically, manually, or as a combination of the
foregoing. Accordingly, the package design engine 108 may assist in
manually or automatically making an intelligent choice for the
packaging design. Such design may vary based on factors such as the
dimensions (e.g., different choices for large vs. small
arrangements), proportions (e.g., long and narrow, flat, cubic,
etc.), and the like. Exemplary characteristics and operation of a
real-time packaging design optimization system are provided in
greater detail in U.S. Patent Ser. No. 61/359,753, filed on Jun.
29, 2010, and entitled "REAL-TIME PACKAGING DESIGN OPTIMIZATION,"
which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
[0059] Dimensional information provided by the measurement device
104 may in any case be used to automatically design the box.
Thereafter, the template design can be conveyed to the production
system 110 within the package production machine 106. The
production system 110 can be responsible for producing the box or
other package template by cutting, creasing, scoring, perforating,
or otherwise manipulating raw production materials available to the
production system. Using such techniques, or any combination
thereof, corrugated cardboard or other materials supplied in a
fanfold, roll, or other fashion, can be formed into a package
template that, when assembled, will have a particular size and
shape. Such size and shape may generally correspond to the
dimensions provided by the measurement device 104. For instance,
the interior capacity of the package assembled from the package
template may generally be sized to receive therein the arrangement
of one or more items on which the measurement device 104 received
dimensional information.
[0060] The foregoing description is exemplary only. In some
embodiments, for instance, the package design engine 108 and the
production system 110 may be housed within a unitary device,
although in other embodiments they may be separate. For instance,
the package design engine 108 may be housed outside of the package
production machine 106 and be in communication with the package
production machine 106 in a manner that allows the design of a
package template to be conveyed to the package production machine
106 in a manner that allows production of the template by the
production system 110. The communication between such a package
production machine 106 and package design engine 108 may take any
form. For instance, there may be a continuously available wireless
or wired connection, an intermittent connection, or some other
connection. In another embodiment, the package design engine 108
may store package template information on a medium and that medium
can be used to transfer the information to the package production
machine 106.
[0061] Turning now to FIGS. 2A and 2B, an exemplary measurement
device 200 is illustrated in greater detail. In particular,
measurement device 200 includes a measurement component 202 and a
bracket 204. The measurement component 202 may be useful to, for
instance, obtain a measurement of a particular distance. For
instance, the measurement component 202 may utilize a laser,
ultrasonic waves, a physical tape, or other mechanism, or any
combination thereof to determine a distance, length, or other
dimension. By way of illustration, the measurement component 202
may, in one embodiment, include a Leica Disto laser distance meter
capable of measuring distance, area, and volume. Such a device may
also be able to add or subtract distances, areas, or volumes,
determine indirect height and distance measurements for
inaccessible locations and measure tilts. In another embodiment,
the measurement component 202 may include a Mastech Digital Laser
Tape Measure that sends narrow beams of ultrasonic waves. The waves
bounce back to the device and a microprocessor converts the elapsed
time into a distance and displays it on an LCD screen. A laser may
also be included for accuracy of the device. In still other
embodiments, the measurement component 202 may include Neiko or
Starline digital tape measure. Such a device may include a tape
that physically extends a distance and, based on the extension of
the tape, includes an LCD display that indicates the measured
distance. The foregoing are presented by way of illustration only,
other similar devices, or any other device suitable for obtaining a
measurement may also be used. Optionally such devices obtain a
measurement without an operator being required to interpret the
particular dimension measured (e.g., by displaying a particular
value rather than having an operator determine a tick mark and the
value of such tick mark).
[0062] In the illustrated embodiment, the measurement component 202
is connected to a bracket 204. The bracket 204 may be connected to
the measurement component 202 and facilitate obtaining of an
accurate measurement by the measurement component 202. For
instance, as shown by the dashed line in FIG. 2B, an interior
contact surface of the bracket 204 may be generally aligned with
the front surface or edge of the measurement component 202 and/or
the emission mechanism 206. As described in greater detail
hereafter, the bracket 204 may be securely placed against an item
such that the interior contact surface of the bracket 204 abuts an
item or collection of items that is to be measured. A measurement
may then be read and the length, height, width or other dimension
of the item or collection can be determined.
[0063] In FIGS. 2A and 2B, it can be seen that bracket 204 has a
dual angle design. In particular, an engagement angle 216 may be
used to contact an item being measured. An attachment angle 218 may
connect to the engagement angle 216 and can be used to couple the
engagement angle 216 to the measurement component 202. Thus, the
engagement angle 216 may be used to secure the measurement device
200 at a particular position relative to an item being measured,
while the attachment angle 218 facilitates securement of the
engagement angle 216 relative to the measurement component 202.
[0064] In more particular detail, engagement angle 216 and
attachment angle 218 each define angles that are about right
angles. The right angle of the engagement angle 216 may facilitate,
for instance, abutting the bracket 204 against a box, container,
object, or other item that has an edge formed by two surfaces that
are oriented about perpendicular relative to each other.
[0065] In some embodiments, the bracket 204 may be formed separate
from the measurement component 202 and/or may be detachable with
respect thereto. In other embodiments, the bracket 204 may be
formed integrally with the measurement component 202. For instance,
the measurement component 202 may include a casing or skin
integrally molded, machined, or otherwise formed with all or a
portion of the bracket 204.
[0066] An embodiment in which the bracket 204 is formed separate
from the measurement component 202 and/or is detachable with
respect thereto is illustrated in FIG. 3A. In such an embodiment,
the bracket 204 may be attached to the measurement component 202 in
any suitable manner. For instance, the bracket 204 may be secured
in place using one or more screws, clamps, rivets, hook and loop
fasteners (e.g., VELCRO), or other mechanical fasteners. The
bracket 204 may also be secured using an adhesive (e.g., glue,
double-sided tape, epoxy, etc.), or a thermal joint (e.g., a weld),
or in any other manner.
[0067] The bracket 204 is illustrated in additional detail in FIGS.
3A-3F. It should be appreciated that such an embodiment is merely
illustrative of any number of different types of brackets that may
be attached to a measurement component 202 and/or used in
connection with the methods, systems, assemblies, and devices of
the present disclosure.
[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, the bracket 204 is generally
composed of four generally flat plates. More particularly, the
engagement angle 216 may be composed of two plates 208, 212 while
the attachment angle 218 is also composed of two plates 210, 214.
As described above, plates 208, 212 may be angularly offset
relative to each other, and in some embodiments may be about
perpendicular relative to each other. Similarly, plates 210, 214
may be angularly offset relative to each other, and in some
embodiments may be about perpendicular relative to each other. Such
an arrangement is, however merely exemplary.
[0069] As best illustrated in FIGS. 3B and 3D, an upper plate 208
of the engagement angle 216 may have a tapered construction. In
particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the upper plate 208 is
generally trapezoidal, such that at least a portion of the side
edges tapers towards the front and rear edges. In other cases,
however, the upper plate 208 may take other forms or shapes,
including trapezoidal in an opposing direction, rectangular,
square, or any other regular or irregular geometric shape. The
upper plate 208 may also be considered as having a generally
rectangular shape with cut distal corners. In this embodiment, the
corners are cut such that a length of the cut corner extends
between about 70-80% of the length of the side edges of the upper
plate 208, although the corners may be cut anywhere from 0-100%.
For instance, at 0%, there may be no cut corners, whereas at 100%,
the corners may help to define a pure trapezoidal shape.
[0070] The back plate 212 may also have a generally tapered
construction as shown in FIGS. 3C and 3E. In particular, the back
plate 212 mates with the upper plate 208 along an edge and extends
downward in the illustrated embodiment. At the lower edge, the side
edges taper or are inclined inward, so as to form a cut-corner at
the lower edge of the back plate 212. The degree to which the
corners may vary. In this embodiment, for instance, the corners may
be cut at approximately 25-35% of the length of the side edges;
however, the corners may be cut at any desired degree, or may not
be cut at all.
[0071] Together, the back plate 212 and the upper plate 208 define
the engagement angle 216 which can be used to assist in mounting a
measurement apparatus to an item that is being measured. This is
best illustrated in FIG. 3F which illustrates an example measurable
item in dashed lines. The lower surface of the upper plate 208 and
the interior surface of the back plate 212 (illustrated as the
right surface) may abut against a corner of an item. Thereafter, a
measurement device may be used to take a measurement. For instance,
if a laser measuring device is used, a laser may extend in a
direction that is generally parallel to the upper plate 208 and
generally perpendicular to the back plate 212.
[0072] The attachment angle 218 may have a similar construction as
the engagement angle 216 although this is merely exemplary. In the
illustrated embodiment, for instance, the attachment angle 218 also
defines a substantially right angle and itself may resemble an
L-bracket. In some embodiments, the width of the attachment angle
218 may be less than a width of the engagement angle 216. For
instance, the engagement angle 216 may be configured to engage
items of any of a number of different sizes. In contrast, the
attachment angle 218 may be configured to attach directly between
the engagement angle 216 and a measurement component 202. Thus, the
attachment angle 218 may not necessarily be adaptable to
accommodate different sized objects. Thus, in one embodiment, a
width of the attachment angle 218 generally conforms to a size of a
measurement component 202. For instance, an upper plate 210 may
attach to a measurement component 202. Consequently, the upper
plate 210 may have a size that is about the same size as or less
than a width of the measurement component 202. In other
embodiments, however, the upper plate 210 may be larger than the
measurement component 202 to which it is attached. In this
embodiment, a transition plate 214 is used to connect the upper
plate 210 of the attachment angle 218 to the engagement angle 216.
More particularly, and as best shown in FIGS. 3A, 3C and 3E, the
engagement angle 216 and attachment angle 218 may be offset
relative to each other. In particular, in this embodiment, both the
engagement angle 216 and the attachment angle 218 form L-shaped
brackets that are aligned back-to-back. The transition plate 214
may, however, be offset relative to the back plate 212 of the
engagement angle 216. More particularly, in the illustrated
orientation, the transition plate 214 is vertically offset relative
to at least a portion of the back plate 212, such that the upper
plate 210 of the attachment angle 218 is vertically above the upper
plate 208 of the engagement angle 216.
[0073] As a result of the offset of the transition plate 214
relative to the back plate 212, a measurement device 202 may be
offset relative to the upper plate 208 of the engagement angle 216.
For instance, as best illustrated in FIG. 2B, the measurement
component 202 may be vertically higher relative to the upper plate
208 of the engagement angle 216. This may be desirable for any
number of reasons. For instance, in one embodiment, an emission
mechanism 206 may project, or be positioned relative to the front
surface of the measurement component 202. By positioning the upper
surface 208 lower relative to the measurement component 202, a
beam, laser, wave, tape, or other element extended/emitted from the
emission mechanism 206 may be sent outward without obstruction from
the bracket 204. The emission mechanism 206 may emit light, another
wave, a measuring tape, or another element in a direction generally
normal to the front surface of the measurement component 202.
[0074] The plates 208, 210, 212, 214 of the angles 216, 218 may be
connected to each other in any suitable manner. For instance, in
one embodiment, plates 208, 212 are integrally formed and are bent
relative to each other to form separate plates at an angle relative
to each other. Plates 210 and 214 may be similarly formed.
Thereafter, the attachment angle 218 may be attached to the
engagement angle 216 by using a mechanical fastener, adhesive,
thermal process, or in a variety of different manners. In other
embodiments, the plates 208, 212 and/or the plates 210, 214 may be
formed separate relative to each other and thereafter joined. In
still other embodiments, plates 208, 210, 212, 214 may be formed as
an integral or unitary piece, such at through an extrusion
process.
[0075] Turning now to FIG. 4, an exemplary method 400 for creating
a customized package on-demand is illustrated. In the illustrated
embodiment, various steps of the method may be performed by
different components, although this is not necessarily the case.
For instance, a human, robotic, or other operator may perform some
aspects of the method 400. A measurement device may perform other
aspects of the method, while a package production machine may
perform still other embodiments. It should be noted that various
steps may, however, be performed by other components. For instance,
the measurement device may be integrated within the package
production machine, or connected thereto, such that various acts
illustrated as being performed by the measurement device may be
performed at least partially by the package production machine. In
still other embodiments, a package template may be designed
external to the package production machine.
[0076] In the illustrated embodiment, an operator of some type may
identify one or more items as to-be-packaged items (act 402). The
items may be arranged (act 404). For instance, if there is a single
item, the item may be arranged at a packaging station such as a
table, conveyor belt, or the like. Arranging the single item may
include determining which way the sides or faces of the item should
be oriented. If there are multiple items, arranging the items may
include arranging the multiple items in a custom manner in which
the operator would also package the items in a custom, on-demand
package, and can also be manipulated at by the user during
measurement (e.g., where an item is flexible or compressible).
Alternatively, or additionally, each of multiple items may be
measured independently and thereafter packaged. For instance, the
system may recommend a manner for arranging the measured items.
[0077] When the items are arranged, a first measurement may be
obtained (act 406). For instance, the length of an item or an
overall length of an arrangement of items may be obtained. A second
measurement can also be obtained (act 408). This may include
obtaining a measurement of a width of the item or collection of
items. A third measurement may also be obtained (act 410). Such a
measurement may correspond to a height of an item or collection of
items. Of course, one will appreciate in view of the disclosure
herein that the particular type of measurement or dimension
obtained (e.g., length, width, height) can be obtained in any
order. Moreover, some dimensions may be obtained at the same time.
For instance, a three-dimensional scanner may be able to obtain all
measurements at approximately the same time.
[0078] The obtained measurements may also be provided by the
measurement device to a package production machine (act 412). The
manner in which the measurements are provided can vary in
accordance with any number of factors. For instance, the
measurement device may have wireless capabilities (e.g., short
range radio, Bluetooth, 802.11, etc.). A package production machine
may be within range of the measurement device such that
measurements of the item or collection of items can be transmitted
automatically and/or wirelessly. In other embodiments, the
measurement device may be tethered or connectable via a physical,
wired connection to the package production machine, so as to
transfer obtained measurements. In still other embodiments, a
storage device such as a disk, memory card, or the like may store
obtained measurements. The storage device may be removed from the
measurement device and connected to the package production machine
to transfer the dimensional information.
[0079] Regardless of the particular manner in which the
measurements are provided, the package production machine may
receive or otherwise access the dimensions of the arrangement of
one or more items (act 414). Based on the dimensions, a package
template may be designed (act 416). Design of the package template
may also include other aspects, such as the selection of a
particular style of package or box to be created. Such selection
may be made manually by an operator, or may be automatically
performed. After the package template is designed, the package
template can be produced (act 418). Producing the package template
may include, for instance, use of an automated process within the
package production machine that makes the necessary or desired
cuts, creases, perforations, scores, and the like.
[0080] Examples of portions of the method 400 are illustrated in
greater detail with respect to FIGS. 5A-8. In particular, FIGS.
5A-8 illustrate example manners in which measurements of an item or
arrangement of items may be obtained, although such embodiments are
merely exemplary.
[0081] In FIGS. 5A-7B, a single item 522 is to he measured and
packaged. The item 522 is illustrated as having a generally
regular, box-like shape. It will be appreciated that this is,
however, merely for simplicity in illustration and that in other
embodiments, the item 522 may take any number of regular,
irregular, or other shapes, and may indeed be a combination of a
number of different components, each of which may have any of a
number of different sizes, shapes, or other configurations.
[0082] In FIG. 5A, the to-be-packaged item 522 is positioned
relative to a packaging station 526. In this embodiment, the
packaging station 526 is a table on which the item 522 is
positioned, although the packaging station 526 may take any other
suitable form. To obtain a first measurement, a measurement device
500 is positioned relative to the item 522. In this particular
embodiment, the measurement device 500 includes a measurement
component 502 attached to a bracket 504. The bracket 504 may be
abutted against the item 522. As show in FIG. 5A, for instance, the
bracket 504 may have upper and back plates. The upper and back
plates have interior surfaces that are positioned in engagement
with a top and side surface of the item 522. Thereafter, the
measurement device 500 may be activated to obtain a
measurement.
[0083] In this particular embodiment, a stop component 520 is also
positioned against the item 522. In particular, the stop component
520 may be positioned along a surface opposing the side surface of
the item 522 engaged by the back plate of the bracket 504. As a
result, surfaces of the bracket 504 and the stop component 520 may
be separated by a distance generally corresponding to one dimension
of the item 522. In FIG. 5A, the measurement device 500 and the
stop component 520 are separated by an "x" dimension of the item
522.
[0084] The stop component 520 may take any suitable form. In
particular, the stop component 520 may provide a surface that
reflects back light, waves, or another particle, matter, wave, or
other form emitted from the measurement component 502. For
instance, in FIG. 5A, a reflection point 524 is illustrated where a
laser or other measurement means is directed. The stop component
520 can thus facilitate obtaining of an accurate measurement with
respect to the distance "x".
[0085] It should be appreciated that the stop component 520 may be
arranged or formed in a variety of different ways. In one
embodiment, the stop component 520 may be built into the packaging
station 526. For instance, the packaging station 526 may have a
three-plane rest in which an item can be positioned, with each of
three planes acting as a stop plate to engage a corresponding
surface of to-be-packaged items. In another embodiment, the stop
component 520 may be handled manually. For instance, an operator of
the measurement device 500 may hold the measurement component 502
in one hand, and the stop component 520 in another hand. When the
measurement component 502 and stop component 520 are aligned the
operator may then selectively activate the measurement device 500
and obtain a first dimension.
[0086] In FIG. 5B, a more particular view of the result of
obtaining the first measurement (i.e., in the "x" dimension) is
shown. In this particular embodiment, the first measurement is
about 12.55 inches and is identified with first indicia 528a on a
display of the measurement device 502. While the illustrated
dimension is measured in inches, any measurement convention or unit
may be used. Thus, a measurement may be made in any suitable
English or Metric unit. In some embodiments, the measurement
component 502 can be selectively changed between desired
measurement conventions or units.
[0087] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a second measurement being taken
of the item 522. In particular, the measurement device 500 is being
used in connection with the stop component 520 to obtain a second
measurement in the "y" direction. The manner of obtaining the
measurement is substantially the same as that described above with
respect to FIGS. 5A and 5B, except that the bracket 204 is engaged
against a different side surface of the item 522, and the different
side surface is offset at about ninety degrees relative to the side
surface used in obtaining the first measurement.
[0088] As shown in FIG. 6B, when the second measurement is
obtained, second indicia 528b on the display of the measurement
component 502 may be updated. Although not illustrated, the area of
a surface or plane defined by the "x" and "y" dimensions may also
be updated at that time, although such a configuration is merely
optional.
[0089] A third measurement is also obtained, as is illustrated in
FIGS. 7A and 7B. In this particular embodiment, the measurement
deice 500 is being used to obtain the illustrated "z" dimension. To
obtain such a dimension, the measurement device 500 is positioned
against the item 522 by, for example, abutting the bracket 504
against two surfaces of the item 522. In this embodiment, the back
plate of the bracket 504 is abutted against the top surface of the
item 522 while an upper surface of the bracket 504 is abutted
against a side surface of the item 522. As a result, in the
orientation shown in FIG. 7A, the measurement device 500 is
directed downward. A reflection point 524 may be made on the
packaging station 526 such that, in this embodiment, the operator
may not use a separate stop component. When the measurement device
500 is activated--which may be selectively or continuously--the
obtained measurement may be made and/or updated. For instance, as
shown in FIG. 7B, the obtained measurement may be indicated by
indicia 528c on the display of the measurement component 502. As
measurements in each of three orthogonal dimensions have thus been
obtained, the measurement component 502 may also calculate a volume
of the item 522, which is illustrated by indicia 530. The indicated
measurements and volume may also generally correspond to an
interior volume of an on-demand or other custom package created to
enclose the item 522.
[0090] As noted above, the systems, methods, components, apparatus,
and assemblies of the present invention are not limited to use with
single items or items having a regular shape. As shown in FIG. 8,
for instance, a measurement device 600 according to the present
disclosure may also be used in connection with an arrangement of
multiple items that do not form a perfect rectangular shape. For
instance, in FIG. 8, at least six items are arranged to form a
generally rectangular shape; however, the shape has openings and
voids not filled in with other items. Nevertheless, the measurement
device 602 may obtain a measurement of each of three dimensions.
For instance, in the illustrated aspect, a stop component 620 may
be placed at a distal end of the collection of items 622, and the
measurement device 602 at a proximal, opposing end. For instance, a
bracket 604 attached to a measurement component 602 may engage one
of the items 622. A measurement may then be taken of the items in
the "x" dimension. Although not illustrated, the measurement device
600 and/or stop component 620 may then be moved or repositioned so
as to obtain measurements in other dimensions. In some embodiments,
the bracket 604 may not be suitable based on a shape or
configuration of the items 622. In such a case, the bracket 604 may
be removable for a measurement to be made without the aid of the
bracket 604.
[0091] As will be appreciated in view of the disclosure herein,
various embodiments of the present disclosure can provide any
number of benefits, not the least of which is a reduction in errors
in packaging design and/or cost savings at least in terms of
production time. For instance, example embodiments may be usable
with large as well as small items. For instance, even items having
dimensions as small as an inch may be measured. Larger items may
also be measured. For very large items, a stop component (e.g., a
target plate or angle) may be placed against the items, or the item
may be placed against a wall or another object to obtain a
reading.
[0092] Furthermore, embodiments of the present disclosure may be
used to measure items of a variety of different types, including
rigid, compressible, flexible, and other items. Compressible or
flexible items may, for instance, be easily adjusted by an operator
of a measurement device to obtain an accurate measurement.
Moreover, items of different shapes, including items with sharp
objects that stick-out from other objects, or a pile of items may
be measured. Further still, a measurement device may obtain
measurements regardless of the color or surface finish of the items
or location of the items. Such benefit may be particularly
desirable in cases where, for instance, items or a location of
items is difficult for use with a camera or scanner. More
particularly, a scanner or camera may have difficultly identifying
dimensions based on color or surface finish features, but
measurement devices of the present disclosure may eliminate such
difficulties.
[0093] In accordance with other aspects, embodiments of the present
disclosure allow lean, mobile, and fast production. For instance,
as items are transported by a conveyor, cart, belt, roller, or
other mechanism, or placed at a packaging location, the items can
be measured without any need to move the products. Thus, by
reducing the movement of the items (e.g., to a particular
measurement location) the production time can be decreased and
efficiency increased.
[0094] Further still, systems reliant on manual input for
dimensional input are often prone to error. By way of illustration,
an operator reading a value from a measuring stick or tape can rely
on a slow and human-error prone process of interpreting the results
and thereafter also attempting to accurately record the
measurements into an on-demand package production machine.
Regardless of whether such transfer is performed by voice,
keyboard, touch screen, or other means, the manual input can be
affected by human and/or communication errors. By automating not
only the determination of the measurements but also the transfer
thereof, such errors can be reduced if not eliminated.
[0095] Errors may also exist in other automated systems. For
instance, and as previously noted, an automated scanner based on
laser, light-grid, ultra-sound, or other technologies may have
difficulty distinguishing between items that are to be packaged and
materials that should not be measured, such as a surrounding
placement device. Items may also be positioned within a bulky
plastic bag, have straps that hang out, or otherwise include items
that are not easily stackable or do not remain in a desired state
(e.g., compressed, or moved state for a flexible device). These
issues may interfere with accuracy in automated imaging processes,
but using embodiments of the present disclosure may be avoided as
an operator can control a measurement device while also
manipulating the items into a desired position or state. Some
devices, such as a three-dimensional camera, may also have
difficulty detecting dark or other colors, high gloss or reflective
materials, or thin or sharp objects that stick out from a main
body, which could lead to errors.
[0096] Further still, in accordance with some aspects, volumetric
data may be computed by a measurement device and/or a package
production machine. The volumetric data optionally exists as a
check value that can ensure that communication between the
measurement device and an on-demand or other package production
machine results in correct data transfer.
[0097] In addition, the disclosed system has a reduced cost
relative to other systems that could be used or produced. While a
tape measurer or other similar manual system may have a reduced
direct cost, errors as discussed above may increase costs by way of
errors or inefficiencies. The costs may be significantly less than
other alternatives that limit the risk for human error, and even
further reduced compared to fully automated systems that do not
require direct labor.
[0098] The discussion herein refers to a number of methods and
method steps and acts that may be performed. It should be noted,
that although the method steps and acts may be discussed in a
certain order or illustrated in a flow chart as occurring in a
particular order, no particular ordering is necessarily required
unless specifically stated, or required because an act is dependent
on another act being completed prior to the act being
performed.
[0099] Embodiments of the present disclosure may comprise or
utilize a special purpose or general-purpose computer including
computer hardware, such as, for example, one or more processors and
system memory, as discussed in greater detail below. Embodiments
within the scope of the present disclosure also include physical
and other computer-readable media for carrying or storing
computer-executable instructions and/or data structures. Such
computer-readable media can be any available media that can be
accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer system.
Computer-readable media that store computer-executable instructions
are physical storage media. Computer-readable media that carry
computer-executable instructions are transmission media. Thus, by
way of example, and not limitation, embodiments of the disclosure
can comprise at least two distinctly different kinds of
computer-readable media, including at least computer storage media
and/or transmission media.
[0100] Examples of computer storage media include RAM, ROM, EEPROM,
CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or
other magnetic storage devices, or any other non-transmission
medium which can be used to store desired program code means in the
form of computer-executable instructions or data structures and
which can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose
computer.
[0101] A "network" is defined as one or more data links that enable
the transport of electronic data between computer systems and/or
modules, engines, and/or other electronic devices. When information
is transferred or provided over a network or another communications
connection (either hardwired, wireless, or a combination of
hardwired or wireless) to a computer, the computer properly views
the connection as a transmission medium. Transmissions media can
include a network and/or data links, carrier waves, wireless
signals, and the like, which can be used to carry desired program
code means in the form of computer-executable instructions or data
structures and which can be accessed by a general purpose or
special purpose computer. Combinations of physical storage media
and transmission media should also be included within the scope of
computer-readable media.
[0102] Further, upon reaching various computer system components,
program code means in the form of computer-executable instructions
or data structures can be transferred automatically from
transmission media to computer storage media (or vice versa). For
example, computer-executable instructions or data structures
received over a network or data link can be buffered in RAM within
a network interface module (e.g., a "NIC"), and then eventually
transferred to computer system RAM and/or to less volatile computer
storage media at a computer system. Thus, it should be understood
that computer storage media can be included in computer system
components that also (or even primarily) utilize transmission
media.
[0103] Computer-executable instructions comprise, for example,
instructions and data which, when executed at a processor, cause a
general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or special
purpose processing device to perform a certain function or group of
functions. The computer executable instructions may be, for
example, binaries, intermediate format instructions such as
assembly language, or even source code. Although the subject matter
has been described in language specific to structural features
and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject
matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to
the described features or acts described above, nor performance of
the described acts or steps by the components described above.
Rather, the described features and acts are disclosed as example
forms of implementing the claims.
[0104] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the
embodiments may be practiced in network computing environments with
many types of computer system configurations, including, personal
computers, desktop computers, laptop computers, message processors,
hand-held devices, multi-processor systems, microprocessor-based or
programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers,
mainframe computers, mobile telephones, PDAs, pagers, routers,
switches, and the like. Embodiments may also be practiced in
distributed system environments where local and remote computer
systems, which are linked (either by hardwired data links, wireless
data links, or by a combination of hardwired and wireless data
links) through a network, both perform tasks. In a distributed
computing environment, program modules may be located in both local
and remote memory storage devices.
[0105] Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that
embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced in
special-purpose or other computing devices integrated within or
coupled to packaging machines, whether by a network connection,
wireless connection, or hardwire connection. Exemplary packaging
machines may include machines that cut or crease packaging
materials to form packaging templates. Example packaging machines
suitable for use with embodiments of the present disclosure may
also directly, or indirectly, execute program code that enables the
packaging machine to accept dimensional inputs and design a
customized packaging template based on the input. Such input may be
provided manually or, as described herein, may be provided by a
measurement device that, for example, determines desired dimensions
and automatically transfers them to the packaging machine without
requiring that the operator or user manually input dimensions.
[0106] Although the foregoing embodiments have been described in
some detail by way of illustration and example, for purposes of
clarity and understanding, certain changes and modifications will
be obvious to those with skill in the art in view of the disclosure
herein. The described embodiments are to be considered in all
respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. Thus, all
changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of
the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
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