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Automated package registration systems, devices, and methods

  • US 10,562,188 B1
  • Filed: 06/17/2019
  • Issued: 02/18/2020
  • Est. Priority Date: 10/30/2018
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A method for registering a package during a robotic package handling operation, the method comprising:

  • receiving first image data representative of a first surface image of a package surface;

    determining that the package is unregistered based on comparing the first surface image to a registration record;

    identifying a pair of edges for the package surface based on the first image data, wherein the pair of edges are exposed along horizontal directions and intersect each other to form a corner of the package surface;

    estimating unclear edges based on the first image data, wherein the pair of edges and the unclear edges correspond to boundaries of the package surface;

    identifying a straight line based on the first image data;

    determining a minimum viable region based on the pair of edges, wherein the minimum viable region overlaps and/or coincides with one or both of the pair of edges and wherein the minimum viable region is a continuous region that excludes the straight line, wherein the minimum viable region does not overlap with the unclear edges for gripping the package while leaving exposed portions of the package corresponding to the estimated unclear edges;

    generating one or more commands for (1) gripping the package with an end effector positioned over the minimum viable region and (2) lifting the package;

    receiving second image data representative of the package after the lift;

    determining third image data as a function of the first image data and the second image data; and

    creating registration data representative of a new registration record of the package based on the third image data for subsequently identifying other packages.

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