Software and methods for automated pallet inspection and repair
US7958624B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 17, 2004 |
| Grant date | Jun 14, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 17, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/53317
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An automated pallet inspection and repair apparatus includes an inspection station and a repair station. The inspection station includes a laser that illuminates a pallet, a camera that collects the reflected light and a computer system. The computer system analyzes the output of the camera and acquires the pallet's geometry and topography. The design of the pallet is determined by the computer software. A decision to repair the pallet is made by comparing the acquired pallet data against the design criteria. If the pallet needs repair, a recipe of repair steps is constructed by inspecting each of the pallet's elements. The recipe is transmitted to the automated repair station.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.