JP7329020B2 - Method and apparatus for electronic device recycling - Google Patents

Description

The present invention primarily relates to recycling of electronic devices. More particularly, the present invention relates to a kiosk for visually analyzing an electronic device and providing the owner with consideration for recycling the electronic device.

The number of electronic devices used by the typical consumer has increased greatly. These devices include cell phones, PDAs, mp3 players, GPS devices, cameras, pagers, remote controls, cordless phones, calculators, and the like. As a result of the continuous introduction of new technologies and models of electronic devices, many consumers frequently upgrade or replace one or more of their recyclable devices. In many cases, consumers stop using their old electronic devices and start using new devices rather than discarding their old electronic devices. Such a situation may have occurred over several generations of such devices.

In addition to the electronic devices described above, there are many other types of devices that are replaced relatively frequently, such as portable mobile electronic devices (e.g., cell phones, MP3 players) and non-portable electronic devices (e.g., mobile phones, MP3 players). computers, printers.) In addition to electronic devices, there are content-based digital media (e.g., games on CDs, DVDs or cartridges or mass storage items for entertainment (e.g., CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays). Such items should be handled in an environmentally friendly manner through recycling and/or proper disposal procedures.Recycle such devices or dispose of such devices properly. It would be convenient for electronic device owners, if possible, because the incentive for device owners to "do the right thing" with used devices is currently small, if only the owner would stop using the device. , the opportunity for recycling or reuse by another party is lost.Proper recycling or disposal of the device is prevented if the owner simply throws the device into a regular trash can.

One particular problem associated with this phenomenon can be illustrated by the example of mobile phones. The number of mobile phone users in the world exceeds 3.6 billion, with an annual growth rate of 10%. As new models incorporate new features and new standards are rolled out, the frequency with which mobile handsets are replaced is approximately every 18 months. Also, as an incentive for consumers to sign up for lucrative two-year service contracts, wireless carriers are offering new phones at less than cost or for free, resulting in a pile of old cell phones. It has become. Old mobile phones and other mobile devices (pagers, PDAs) are now a threat to the environment. As of 2007, there are over 7.5 billion cell phones in the United States awaiting recycling in closets or in the waste stream. Moreover, more than 150 million mobile phones are waiting for recycling every year. After these devices are placed in the waste stream, they can leak lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic and other toxins into the water supply. In municipalities, waste is often incinerated, resulting in the rapid release of these toxic substances into the air and back into the earth's rainwater. A problem to be solved is to allow the general public easy access to recycle or resell their cell phones and other recyclable devices. Two reasons that mobile phones are not recycled or resold are the difficulty of accessing recycling or resale facilities and security concerns about information stored on mobile phones. there is a point In addition to mobile phones, many other electronic devices have similar problems.

The prior art fails to recognize the problems associated with recycling mobile phones in a way that is both attractive to consumers and financially rewarding to recyclers. Further, the prior art fails to provide an automated means for visually inspecting the LCD screen of a mobile phone to determine if damage has occurred to the LCD screen. Further, the prior art fails to provide an automated means for determining the authenticity of electronic devices submitted for recycling and consideration.

The present invention enables secure recycling, donation, trade-in and/or sale of mobile phones at publicly accessible locations. In a cell phone recycling embodiment, the present invention is used when cell phone owners submit their cell phones for recycling via a recycling kiosk and receive compensation in some way. Consideration may be distributed via cash, coupons, credit or debit cards or other magnetic or electronic transaction methods.

In one embodiment, a kiosk located at a publicly accessible location is used in a method of collecting used electronic devices for recycling and refurbishment purposes. Kiosks display one or more transaction options. The method further includes interaction between the user and the kiosk display options. Kiosk display options may include powering the electronic device, testing and optical scanning, erasing stored data in the electronic device, consumer determination and acceptance of value consideration for the electronic device. This method allows the consumer to interact with the kiosk in a variety of ways of consideration (e.g., cash distribution or redeemable discount coupon distribution via coupons, or credit card debit or credit, user-specified charity). electronic donation(s), or other electronic payment method).

One aspect of the present invention is a method of evaluating financial compensation to an electronic device and a user for submission of an electronic device. The method includes placing an electronic device within an inspection area of the kiosk. The inspection area has light. The method further includes imaging the display screen of the electronic device in a deactivated mode. Next, the method includes imaging a display screen of the electronic device in an active mode. The light is turned off and an electronic device analysis image is generated. The method further includes imaging a display screen of the electronic device in active mode. The light is turned on and a first image of the electronic device is generated. Next, the method includes subtracting the first image of the electronic device from the analytical image of the electronic device to produce a subtraction image of the electronic device. The subtraction image is compared to the image of the electronic device in the deactivated mode to determine if the display screen of the electronic device is defective and to define the electronic device analyzed. Finally, the method includes determining a value of the analyzed electronic device. The method may also include automatically binning the electronic device after determining the values of the analyzed electronic device.

The method kiosk includes a housing. The housing includes a user interface on the outer surface of the housing for information input by a user, and includes an upper dome and a lower dome. The upper dome and lower dome include multiple mirrors. The kiosk further includes an upper chamber camera, a lower chamber camera and a transparent surface. The kiosk further includes a processor. A processor is provided within the housing and communicates with the at least one camera. The processor is configured to identify the brand and model number of the electronic device based on at least one of information from the user and images from the at least one camera. The processor is configured to determine a monetary value of the electronic device.

Another aspect of the invention is a method of analyzing financial considerations for electronic devices and users for electronic device submissions. The method includes placing an electronic device within an inspection area of the kiosk. The inspection area has a camera. The method further includes imaging the portion of the electronic device. A portion includes the periphery of the electronic device resulting in a peripheral image. A method inspects a peripheral image of an electronic device obtained by at least one camera positioned within an inspection area to determine if a display screen of the electronic device is defective and defines an analyzed electronic device. further including Finally, the method includes determining a value of the analyzed electronic device.

The method kiosk includes a housing, a user interface provided on an exterior surface of the housing for user input of information, and an upper dome and a lower dome. The upper dome and lower dome include multiple mirrors. The kiosk further includes an upper chamber camera, a lower chamber camera and a transparent surface. The kiosk also includes a processor. A processor is provided within the housing and communicates with the at least one camera, the processor identifying the brand and model number of the electronic device based on at least one of information from the user and images from the at least one camera. is configured as follows. The processor is configured to determine a monetary value of the electronic device.

In the method, the information from the peripheral image also includes the model name and location of the LED aperture. Further, the processor is configured to automatically adjust the surrounding image to a rectangular shape. Peripheral images include 360 degree images. Information from the peripheral image includes the location of the USB port, the location of the volume control buttons, the location of the camera button, and the location of the power on/off button. Information from the peripheral image also includes the location of the camera lens and the logo of the electronic device.

Yet another aspect of the invention is a method for financial compensation to a user for electronic device analysis and electronic device submission. The method includes placing an electronic device within an inspection area of the kiosk. The inspection area has light. The method further includes imaging a display screen of the electronic device with light in the inspection region illuminating the display screen of the electronic device. Next, the method includes imaging a display screen of the electronic device with the light in the inspection area turned off to generate an analysis image of the electronic device. Next, the method includes subtracting the analytical image of the electronic device from the first image of the electronic device to generate a composite image of the electronic device. Compare the subtracted image with the training image of the electronic device. There are no electronic components in the electronic device if the electronic device is found to be fake by a photograph printed on the cardboard underneath the glass where the LCD is usually placed. When the light is off, there is no light coming out of the screen. By performing some processing on the first image and detecting on the display screen area that the first image has multiple colors and color variations but no emissions from the first image, The method assumes that the electronic device is fake. The method also explicitly trains the fake display electronic device, since the fake display electronic device usually has the same picture in the LCD area. Finally, the method includes determining a value of the analyzed electronic device. The method may also include automatically binning the electronic device after determining the values of the analyzed electronic device.

The method also determines crack detection on the display screen. Crack detection relates to detecting if there are multiple color changes in an electronic device. If the method determines that the actual cracks in the glass are not obtained in the imaging because they are confused with the photograph of the underside of the glass, some kind of color entropy metric is used to divide one crack into the other. (multiple different colors do not occur from cracks in glass).

Yet another aspect of the invention is for determining the authenticity of an electronic device by analyzing the electronic device and, if the electronic device is authentic, providing a monetary compensation to the user for submitting the electronic device. method. The method includes placing an electronic device within an inspection area of the kiosk. The inspection area has light. The method also includes imaging the electronic device. A first image is generated with the light in the inspection area turned on. The method also includes imaging the electronic device. A second image of the electronic device is generated when the light in the inspection area is turned off. The method also includes generating a composite image of the electronic device from the first image and the second image. A composite image is generated to resemble the image of the electronic device when the display screen is off. The method also includes comparing the composite image to training images of a plurality of electronic devices to determine authenticity of the electronic device. Training images include display screens used by unauthorized electronic devices.

The method may further include detecting cracks in the display screen. A color entropy metric can also be used in the method.

Yet another aspect of the invention is a dome-shaped device. A domed device includes an upper dome and a lower dome. The upper and lower domes include multiple walls. The multiple walls are composed of mirrors. The dome-shaped device further includes a transparent surface and at least one camera. A camera can obtain a 360-degree view of the electronic device placed in the dome-shaped apparatus. The upper dome preferably contains the upper chamber camera. The lower dome preferably contains the lower chamber camera. Preferably, a combination of upper dome and lower dome cameras, respectively, and multiple mirrors provide images of the device placed on a transparent surface. Preferably, a combination of upper dome and lower dome cameras respectively and multiple mirrors provide 360 degree view of the electronic device placed on the transparent surface. Each of the upper dome and lower dome cameras is movable.
The present invention provides, for example, the following.
(Item 1)
1. A method of analyzing financial compensation to electronic devices and users for electronic device submissions, comprising:
placing the electronic device in an inspection area of the kiosk, the inspection area having a light source;
imaging the electronic device to produce a first image, wherein the light source in the inspection region is on;
imaging the electronic device to generate an analysis image of the electronic device, wherein the light in the inspection region is off;
subtracting the analysis image of the electronic device from the first image of the electronic device to generate a composite image of the electronic device;
Comparing the composite image of the electronic device to a plurality of training images of the electronic device to identify the electronic device, determine if the electronic device is defective, and define an analyzed electronic device. and,
determining a value of the analyzed electronic device;
A method, including
(Item 2)
2. The method of item 1, further comprising automatically binning the electronic device after determining the value of the analyzed electronic device.
(Item 3)
2. The method of item 1, further comprising multiplying the analysis image by a multiplier to account for any brightness changes of the screen.
(Item 4)
1. A method of analyzing financial compensation to electronic devices and users for electronic device submissions, comprising:
imaging a portion of an electronic device, said portion including a display screen of said electronic device, said imaging resulting in a partial image;
imaging the portion of the electronic device, the portion including the display screen of the electronic device, and providing a lit image when the environment is lit;
inspecting the partial image of the electronic device obtained by at least one camera positioned within an inspection area to determine dimensions of the electronic device;
inspecting the lit image of the electronic device to determine if there are any defects in the screen area of the electronic device to define an analyzed electronic device;
determining a value of the analyzed electronic device;
A method, including
(Item 5)
The kiosk is
a housing;
a user interface provided on an exterior surface of the housing for input of information by the user;
an upper chamber and a lower chamber;
further comprising
The upper chamber includes a plurality of mirrors, an upper chamber camera, a lower chamber camera, a transparent surface, and a processor, the processor provided within the housing and in communication with the at least one camera, the processor comprising: configured to identify a brand and model number of the electronic device based on at least one of the information from the user and the images from the at least one camera, the processor comprising: configured to determine the value of
The method according to any one of items 1-4.
(Item 6)
5. The method of item 4, wherein the information from the partial image includes the position of the camera lens of the electronic device.
(Item 7)
5. The method of item 4, wherein the electronic device comprises one of a mobile phone, tablet computer or e-reader.
(Item 8)
1. A method of analyzing financial compensation to electronic devices and users for electronic device submissions, comprising:
placing an electronic device in an inspection area of a kiosk, the inspection area having a camera;
imaging the electronic device to generate a contour image of the electronic device;
generating a plurality of parameters of the electronic device based on the contour image;
comparing the plurality of parameters of the contour image to a plurality of training images of an electronic device to identify the electronic device;
A method, including
(Item 9)
9. The method of item 8, wherein the plurality of parameters includes dimensions of the electronic device.
(Item 10)
9. The method of item 8, wherein generating a plurality of parameters of the electronic device includes determining a size of a side of the electronic device.
(Item 11)
9. The method of item 8, further comprising generating at least one illumination image of the electronic device to determine texture of the electronic device.
(Item 12)
9. The method of item 8, further comprising determining a value of the electronic device.
(Item 13)
The kiosk is
a housing;
a user interface provided on an exterior surface of the housing for input of information by the user;
an upper chamber and a lower chamber;
further comprising
the upper chamber includes a plurality of mirrors, an upper chamber camera, a transparent surface and a processor, the processor provided within the housing and in communication with the at least one camera;
The method of item 8.
(Item 14)
The processor is configured to identify a brand and model number of the electronic device based on at least one of the information from the user and the image from the at least one camera, the processor comprising: 14. The method of item 13, configured to determine a monetary consideration value of a device.
(Item 15)
1. A method of analyzing financial compensation to electronic devices and users for electronic device submissions, comprising:
placing the electronic device in an inspection area;
imaging the electronic device in a first predetermined lighting environment to generate a first image;
imaging the electronic device in a second predetermined lighting environment to generate a second image;
Generating a composite image of the electronic device from the first image and the second image, wherein the composite image resembles an image of the electronic device as it would be if the display screen was off. that it is generated to
comparing the composite image with training images of a plurality of electronic devices to determine the identity of the electronic device;
A method, including
(Item 16)
16. The method of item 15, wherein the electronic device comprises one of a mobile phone, tablet computer or e-reader.
(Item 17)
1. A method of analyzing an electronic device to determine the authenticity of the electronic device and providing a financial consideration to a user for submission of the electronic device if the electronic device is authentic, comprising:
placing an electronic device in an inspection area of a kiosk, the inspection area having a light;
imaging the electronic device, turning on the light in the inspection area to generate a first image;
imaging the electronic device, wherein the light in the inspection region is turned off to generate an analysis image of the electronic device;
determining that the display screen of the electronic device includes multiple colors but is not emitting light;
determining that the electronic device is not authentic;
A method, including
(Item 18)
The kiosk is
a housing;
a user interface provided on an exterior surface of the housing for input of information by the user;
an upper chamber and a lower chamber;
further comprising
The upper chamber includes a plurality of mirrors, an upper chamber camera, a lower chamber camera, a transparent surface, and a processor, the processor provided within the housing and in communication with the at least one camera, the processor comprising: configured to identify a brand and model number of the electronic device based on at least one of the information from the user and the images from the at least one camera, the processor comprising: configured to determine the value of
18. The method of item 17.
(Item 19)
18. The method of item 17, further comprising using a color entropy metric.
(Item 20)
18. The method of item 17, further comprising detecting cracks in the display screen.

1 is a perspective view of a recycling kiosk; FIG. Figure 2 is a front view of the recycling kiosk of Figure 1; Figure 2 is a front partial view of the recycling kiosk of Figure 1; Figure 2 is a front partial view of the recycling kiosk of Figure 1; FIG. 4 is a partial view of an electrical connector wheel; FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the internal components of the kiosk; FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the internal components of the kiosk; FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the internal components of the kiosk; FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the internal components of the kiosk; FIG. 12 is a partial view of the phone of the kiosk inspection plate; FIG. 11 is a partial view of how the phone is moved into the kiosk; FIG. 11 is a partial view of how the phone is moved into the kiosk; FIG. 3 is a partial view of how phones are binned into kiosks; FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the components of the recycling kiosk; FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the components of the recycling kiosk; FIG. 4 is a partial view of the inspection area of the kiosk; FIG. 11 is a partial view of the camera within the dome of the kiosk; FIG. 4 is a partial view of a phone within the kiosk inspection area; Fig. 3 is an image of a cell phone in the lit state (light on); It is an image of a mobile phone in an unlit state. Fig. 10 is an image of the subtraction result of a lit phone and an unlit phone; An image of a mobile phone training image with the screen not turned on. Graph showing the intensity profile from the top, showing a match (the spikes at 211 are text regions, not present in the training image). An image of a fraudulent mobile phone lit up (when the light in the inspection area is on) showing a picture printed on cardboard and placed under the display screen glass instead of the LCD. Fig. 2 shows an image of an unlit rogue cell phone (with the light in the inspection area turned off) and nothing is displayed; 1 is an image of a genuine mobile phone with cracks in the display screen. 4 is a flow chart of a method of recycling electronic devices. 4 is a flow chart of a method of recycling electronic devices. 4 is a flow chart of a method of recycling electronic devices.

According to the present invention, an automated analysis of an electronic device can be performed to determine if the device is damaged and to ascertain the value of the electronic device if it is recycled. Automated analysis is preferably performed using a kiosk or recycling machine. The kiosk has an inspection area that includes an upper chamber and a lower chamber. Preferably each chamber has a camera. The kiosk also has a transparent plate between the inspection areas to allow viewing of the underside of the electronic device placed on the transparent plate. Each chamber preferably has multiple mirrors that provide multiple views of the electronic device within the inspection area. These mirrors allow a multidimensional view of the electronic device placed on the transparent plate. Preferably, these mirrors allow a 360 degree view of the electronic device placed on the rotatable transparent plate. Preferably, these mirrors make it possible to obtain the height, width and/or length of the electronic device.

Mobile phones are preferably segmented into three basic shapes: 1) a flip phone or clamshell (e.g. MOTOROLA RAZR), 2) a slider phone that exposes a keyboard or screen (e.g. MOTORLA DROID). ), and 3) stick phones (eg, Apple iPhone or Research in Motion BLACKBERRY). The invention is also used with networks of kiosks in public spaces. These kiosks perform a combination of recycling process steps. The combination of recycling process steps includes receipt, identification, visual inspection, electrical testing, electrical erasure, quality grading, containerization (bagging), labeling, and inventory of recyclable electronic devices. Each kiosk determines some form of compensation for the owner of the device. This consideration preferably takes the form of a direct payment, a credit on an account, a donation to charity, a discount coupon for future purchases, or some similar form of consideration. The device owner has the option to accept the offered consideration or decline the transaction and remove the device.

In the following description an example is given for a mobile phone. However, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the system can be run with any number of other devices having LCD screens without departing from the spirit and scope of the system. .

As shown in FIGS. 1, 1A, 1B and 1C, a kiosk for recycling and providing monetary compensation for electronic devices is indicated generally by the reference numeral 100. As shown in FIG. Electronic devices can be smartphones, tablet computers, IPOD® devices, MP3 players, GPS devices, eReaders, and the like. The kiosk 100 has a quasi-rectangular parallelepiped housing 105 . Kiosk 100 is preferably a vending machine of typical size and shape (eg, a soda machine, coin changer, can recycling machine, or other vending machine). Header 103 allows marketing and video. An access door 130 in the front body area 131 allows access to the electronic device test area 106 . A display screen 115 is provided in front of the housing 105 . Display screen 115 provides information to the user and serves as a user interface in touch screen embodiments. Also preferably located on the exterior of housing 105 is a label printer 125, a coupon dispenser 126, a receipt printer 127, and a cash or card dispenser 128. A thumb print reader is also provided in the external housing.

Kiosk 100 enables automated visual analysis of electronic devices to identify electronic devices and to determine that electronic devices are damaged to ascertain the recycling value of electronic devices. It can be performed. In addition, kiosk 100 also enables electrical analysis of electronic devices. As shown in FIG. 2, kiosk 100 includes carousel 500 that includes a plurality of electrical connectors 505a-505y. Each electrical connector 505 has a unique connection plug for removable connection to an electronic device. Electrical connectors 505 a - 505 y each have a cartridge removably secured within carousel 500 . Thus, the new electrical connector 505 can replace the old electrical connector 505 . In addition, kiosk 100 is designed for automatic detachment using detachment mechanism 511 of electrical connector 505 .

As shown in FIGS. 3, 3A, 3B and 3C, the internal mechanism 101 of the kiosk 100 includes an upper chamber 520, a lower chamber 530, a binning plate 540, a transparent plate 545, a door 550, a canister 555 and a rotary Conveyor 500 is included. Preferably, carousel 500 can hold approximately 25 electrical connectors 505 . The electrical connector 505 is replaceable so that changes in USB and other similar connections can be easily accommodated. As shown in FIG. 3B, mobile phone 150 is placed on transparent plate 545 and moved to inspection area 106 within upper chamber 520 and lower chamber 530 . Both the upper and lower chambers preferably have a bell-shaped shape. Visual analysis is performed by moving the cell phone between the upper chamber 520 and the lower chamber 530, as shown in FIG. 3C. The transparent plate is preferably constructed of glass of transparent plastic material to allow the imaging components in the upper chamber 520 and lower chamber 530 to obtain multiple view images of the mobile phone 150 . Preferably, a 3D profile of the mobile phone is generated for visual analysis of the mobile phone's identity and status. After visual analysis is completed, transparent plate 545 is moved from between upper chamber 520 and lower chamber 530 .

4, 4A, 4B and 4C illustrate automatic movement and binning of electronic device 150 within internal mechanism 101 of kiosk 100. FIG. As shown in FIG. 4 , after the door 550 is lowered and placed on the transparent plate 545 , the door 550 is moved while the mobile phone 150 is placed on the door 550 . As shown in FIG. 4A, as the transparent plate 545 moves inward, the cell phone is blocked by the door 550 and is blocked by the binning plate 540 as it begins to fall into the opening created by the inward movement of the transparent plate 545 . engage. As shown in FIG. 4B, when the cell phone is placed on the binning plate 540, the binning plate 540 slowly moves down to one side and opens into the canister 555. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 4C, the mobile phone 150 is slowly dropped through the opening 556 into the canister 555, where the mobile phone 150 is secured and later collected. This entire process is done at such a speed that damage to the electronic devices being recycled is avoided.

Kiosk 100 is of a typical size and shape for a vending machine (eg, soda machine, coin changer, can recycling machine, or other vending machine). A housing 105 of kiosk 100 protects internal mechanism 101 and secures electronic devices submitted for recycling. Housing 105 is preferably constructed of a metallic material (eg, steel or aluminum) to avoid authenticated access to kiosk 100 .

Inspection area 106 is preferably designed to allow detailed visual inspection of electronic devices (eg, tablet computers, e-readers, MP3 players, PDAs). The size of inspection area 106 is preferably 30 centimeters ("cm") long, 30 cm wide, and 20 cm high. The walls of the inspection area are preferably white and/or mirror finished to allow imaging of the electronic device.

Connections from kiosk 100 and to remote computers are preferably single connections to a communication network (eg, the Internet) via a wired LAN, wireless LAN, cellular or any other proprietary communication system. Kiosk 100 preferably includes processor 160 . Processor 160 processes information obtained from the mobile phone and controls the components of kiosk 100 . Preferably, processor 160 is a standard personal computer (“PC”) or other type of embedded computer running any operating system (eg, Linux or MACOS). be. Processor 160 is most preferably a small form factor PC with an integrated hard disk drive (“HDD”), a central processing unit (“CPU”), and a universal serial bus (“USB”) that communicates with other components of kiosk 100. is a port. One most suitable CPU is the DELL PC OPTIPLEX780. Alternatively, the processing means is a microprocessor, with a separate HDD, power supply and standalone motherboard that interfaces with other components of kiosk 100 . Kiosk 100 preferably includes memory 161 or other storage device (eg, disk drive) for storing executable applications, test software, databases and other software necessary for operation of recycling kiosk 100 .

External communication components for kiosk 100 preferably include a wired Ethernet that provides connectivity to the Internet, or external communication components include a wireless modem (e.g., GSM for data communication). trademark), CDMA, 3G and 4G technologies).

As shown in FIGS. 7-9, visual inspection of an electronic device (eg, cell phone 150) in inspection area 106 is preferably performed by at least one camera 610 in upper chamber 520. As shown in FIGS. Lower chamber 530 also preferably has at least one camera or other imaging component (eg, scanner). Alternatively, visual inspection is performed by multiple cameras. A preferred camera 610 is a 1 megapixel machine vision camera. If a single camera 610 is used in the inspection area 106, the camera 610 is preferably moveable, which allows for greater flexibility in inspecting the electronic device 150 (e.g., mobile phone placed on the transparent plate 545). Increase the field of view of the inspection area 106. Camera 161 is preferably movable. Camera 610 is preferably positioned to image LCD screen 153 of electronic device 150 to determine if LCD screen 153 is damaged. The interior surfaces of upper chamber 520 and lower chamber 530 preferably include mirrors 615 to optimize viewing of electronic devices placed within inspection region 106 . As shown in Figure 9, the reflection 150' of the mobile phone 150 is illustrated. The camera 610 is also preferably movable to image the data port of the electronic device to determine the type of electrical connector 505 of the electronic device for performing an electrical analysis of the electronic device. Alternatively, the entire inner surface of upper chamber 520 and lower chamber 530 are mirror-finished to optimize imaging of the electronic device. Alternatively, the camera(s) are CCD or CMOSS.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the major components of kiosk 100. As shown in FIG. Processor 160 preferably communicates with other components of kiosk 100 . Memory 161 preferably includes a database of information (eg, images, physical characteristics, prices, and other similar information) on multiple test mobile phones. External communication 167 preferably communicates with the network through a wireless connection or Ethernet to send and receive information to and from the remote portion. Power source 170 is preferably received through a plug-in connection to a wall outlet. Mechanical components 165 include electrical connector carousel 500, transparent plate 545, binning plate 540, door 550, and other similar components. Camera(s) 610, electrical connectors and user interfaces interact with processor 160 as described above. FIG. 5 shows the interior back of recycling kiosk 100 . As shown, the processor 160 is preferably a personal computer having a spare battery 170a, a wireless connection 167 for external communication, an electrical connection 140, a receipt dispenser 104 and a display screen 115.

Processor 160 identifies electronic devices 150 submitted for recycling using visual inspection and information from the user interface. Processor 160 also uses information obtained during visual inspection or information from the user interface to determine the appropriate electrical connector 505 for connection to the data port of electronic device 150 . Processor 160 also directs and receives information from electrical analysis of electronic device 150 performed using electrical connector 505 connected to a data port of electronic device 150 . The processor preferably determines the submitted electronic device 150 money based on visual inspection, optionally electrical analysis and data stored within the kiosk's memory 161 or information obtained externally through the external communication component 167. It also determines the actual consideration.

A flow chart of the preferred recycling method is shown in FIG. At step 301, the consumer chooses to sell or recycle the electronic device. The consumer sees a listing on the kiosk screen to see if the electronic device is available for sale/repair arrangement. The consumer activates an on-screen menu system and either enters the phone model directly or browses through a series of menus to determine if the electronic device can be sold or can only be recycled. At decision block 302, it is determined that the electronic device can only be recycled. If the electronic device can only be recycled (i.e., the electronic device is not listed on the list of electronic devices available for resale), the consumer can insert the electronic device into the receptacle at step 303, The electronic device then drops into a small container 112 for recycling.

If the electronic device is refurbished/resalable, the consumer is encouraged to proceed with testing/evaluating the system. At step 304, the system determines the correct connector for connection to the electronic device. Connectivity options are not limited to cables, standard or proprietary connectors, hard docks, removable or external physical memory for readout, or other wireless methods (eg, WiFi, Bluetooth, RFID, NFC). At step 305 , an electronic device is connected and inserted into test area 106 . If this is done correctly, some notification (eg green light) is given to the consumer and the system proceeds to step 306 . At step 306, the electronic device is tested using diagnostics and operates, for example, via an OMSI interface. Diagnostics preferably includes electrical and physical testing (eg, battery, screen, memory, button functionality and structural integrity testing of electronic devices).

Preferably, the electronic device is imaged and analyzed using analysis software to identify scratches, cracks, wear patterns, dents, breaks or missing parts, features (e.g. lenses, buttons, connectors, badges, labels and/or branding). Identify comprehensions. The identification may be by an image comparison method or other similar method, in which the captured image of the electronic device is normalized and compared to a reference image. Other inspection methods may be used in conjunction with visual and/or electrical testing (e.g., weighting) to determine specific weights, and such data may be used to further verify manufacturer and correct device model verification. Precision is improved. In another embodiment, photographic images are used to identify the correct manufacturer and model number/product number. Visual identification may include any combination of the following: calculations based on measurements, physical (eg, mm, inches), number of pixels, and the like. Identification is based on electronic device dimensions, button location/size, LCD and other physical characteristics. A single camera or multiple cameras can be used to determine the height, width and depth as desired. Identification is based on OCR (Optical Character Recognition) of identifiers (eg, (phones and tablet computers) carrier, brand, model, serial number, other identifiers). Identification is based on barcodes. The consumer can be instructed to orient the CE on the front, back, side, and then change direction as needed. Additionally, the consumer may be instructed to remove the CE cover(s), battery, etc. to gain access to identifiable items (eg, alphanumeric or bar code data). Kiosk 100 provides a method of using visual inspection in conjunction with electrical inspection to identify devices, determine their value, and reduce the likelihood of fraud.

In one embodiment, the kiosk 100 communicates with the carrier associated with the mobile phone to verify all information that may be pertinent to the device (e.g. validity or authenticity, registered ownership, account status). , service period). In some cases, if the consumer's specific information does not match the registered owner information, the kiosk 100 automatically contacts the assumed owner in some manner (automatic phone call, email, text message). to alert the owner of the phone to a possible transaction.

Another feature of embodiments of the kiosk 100 is the ability to determine if there is personal information on the electronic device. This can either verify the existence of data in a specific storage register in memory (e.g. quickkey save number) or verify the file type (e.g. jpeg, mp3) or personalize all non-default storage locations. Determined by only assuming data is included. Consumers are given the opportunity to erase data from their phones. One option allows the consumer to download the data first and then send it to a consumer-specified location (eg, email address, website). In another embodiment, a slot is provided for the consumer to insert a memory card (eg, USB drive, memory stick). When a memory card is inserted through this slot, kiosk 100 uploads data to the memory device. In yet another embodiment, kiosk 100 provides a web location from which the user can later retrieve data when desired. In another embodiment, the user chooses to save in another electronic device purchased by the consumer at kiosk 100 or in a kiosk 100 location or some other storage location. The consumer preferably selects a username and password to access the system-provided storage location.

After determining the value, this value is provided to the kiosk in step 307 . Kiosk 100 then provides the price or other consideration for the phone to the consumer. This price or other consideration is typically lower than the resale value. At step 311, kiosk 100 completes any further testing and diagnostics of the electronic device, disconnects the cable from the electronic device, and prints a receipt for the consumer. Funds transfers may be authenticated by kiosk 100 by crediting a consumer credit card or distributing bills or vouchers or coupons by cash distribution. At step 312, kiosk 100 updates its inventory database and sends the updated information to the kiosk server over the communications network.

One preferred method of the present invention is shown in the flow chart of FIG. Method 1000 begins at block 1001 . A mobile phone 150 is placed within the inspection area 106 of the kiosk 100 . The inspection area has light. The electronic device is imaged in deactivated mode. At block 1002, a display screen of an electronic device is imaged. When the electronic device is in active mode and the light in inspection region 106 is turned off, an analytical image of the electronic device is obtained. At block 1003, the display screen of electronic device 150 is imaged again, but with the light in inspection region 106 turned on to obtain a first image of the electronic device. The mobile phone 150 must set the camera function to camera mode. At block 1004, a first image of the electronic device is subtracted from the analysis image to produce a subtraction image of the electronic device. At block 1005, the subtracted image is compared to the image of the electronic device in the deactivated mode to determine if the display screen of the electronic device is defective and to define an analyzed electronic device. At block 1006, the cell phone value is determined as described in further detail below.

Preferably, the method kiosk 100 includes a housing 105 . Housing 105 includes a user interface on the outer surface of the housing for information input by a user, and also includes an upper dome and a lower dome. The upper dome and lower dome include multiple mirrors. Kiosk 100 further includes an upper chamber camera, a lower chamber camera and a transparent surface. Kiosk 100 further includes processor 160 . A processor 160 is provided within the housing and communicates with the at least one camera. Processor 160 is configured to identify the brand and model number of the electronic device based on at least one of information from the user and images from the at least one camera. Processor 160 is configured to determine a monetary consideration value for the electronic device.

The upper and lower domes preferably include walls constituted by mirrors. The dome-shaped device further includes a transparent surface and at least one camera. The camera can obtain multiple views of the electronic device located within the dome-shaped apparatus. The upper dome preferably contains the upper chamber camera. The lower dome preferably contains the lower chamber camera. Preferably, a combination of upper dome and lower dome cameras, respectively, and multiple mirrors allow the image of the device to be placed on a transparent surface. Preferably, the combination of upper dome and lower dome cameras, respectively, and multiple mirrors allows 360 degree electronic devices to be placed on a transparent surface. Preferably, each of the upper dome and lower dome cameras is movable.

Another method of the present invention is shown in the flow chart of FIG. As method 2000 begins at block 2001 , an electronic device is placed within the inspection area of kiosk 100 . Inspection area 106 has a camera. At block 2002, a portion of the electronic device is imaged, a portion including the periphery of the electronic device, resulting in a peripheral image. At block 2003, a peripheral image of the electronic device obtained by at least one camera positioned within the inspection area is inspected. At block 2004, it is determined whether the display screen of the electronic device is defective and the analyzed electronic device is defined. At block 2005, values for the analyzed electronic device are determined.

Information from the peripheral image preferably includes the model name and location of the LED aperture. Further, the processor 160 is configured to automatically adjust the peripheral edges to a rectangular shape to compensate for screen damage that causes image distortion due to missing portions of the screen. Peripheral images include 360 degree images. Information from the peripheral image includes the location of the USB port, the location of the volume control buttons, the location of the camera button, and the location of the power on/off button. Information from the peripheral image also includes the location of the camera lens and the logo of the electronic device.

Visual inspection and recognition software is preferably used by kiosk 100 for mobile phone 150 analysis. In one preferred method, a recognition algorithm is applied to a particular make and model of mobile phone 150 . Visual inspection and recognition software determines the boundaries of the mobile phone 150 being inspected to determine the outer dimensions of the mobile phone 150 . A master database of cell phones stored in the memory 161 of the kiosk 100 or a master database of cell phones available to the kiosk 100 on-line using external communication to a portion of the possible cell phones using external dimensions. Determine from The visual inspection and recognition software then preferably uses a set of secondary and tertiary features to further distinguish mobile phone 150 . These secondary and tertiary features may include display screen placement and size, keyboard placement and size, unique buttons, port placement and other distinguishing features. After determining the correct make and model of cell phone, the visual inspection and recognition software subtracts the image of the cell phone 150 from the image of the complete cell phone of the same make and model. The result of the subtraction is preferably a quantifiable number of pixels and examined for broken or missing parts, screen cracks, and low, medium or high wear categories.

Alternatively, visual inspection is performed using neural network pattern recognition techniques to identify mobile phone 150 . A filter algorithm is then used to determine defects (eg, screen cracks). Additionally, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that other visual inspection techniques may be used without departing from the scope and intent of the present invention.

Additionally, visual inspection optionally includes obtaining a thermal signature for mobile phone 150 . One preferred method for obtaining a thermal signature of the mobile phone 150 is to raster the laser on the mobile phone to characterize the decay thermal profile of the submitted mobile phone 150. FIG. This decay heat profile is then compared to that of a complete sample of the same mobile phone 150 . The decay heat profile shows the wear of the cell phone 150 outer surface. This wear is used to calculate the monetary value of mobile phone 150 .

Yet another method of the present invention includes placing an electronic device within an inspection area of the recycling kiosk 100, powering the electronic device, and displaying a known image on the LCD screen of the electronic device. include. A known image on the LCD screen of the electronic device was compared to a stored copy of the known image stored on the recycling kiosk to determine and analyze defects in the LCD screen of the electronic device. Defines an electronic device. The method further includes determining a value of the analyzed electronic device.

In one embodiment of the method, the known image is a startup image for an electronic device carrier. In another embodiment, the known images are images of national parks. The method may further include performing an electrical analysis of the electronic device.

The method preferably images the electronic device in whatever state the electronic device is in once it is placed in the kiosk. The method then compares the images to a training database of all different types of electronic devices that have been trained in the past (all training images preferably have their screens off).

The method preferably images beyond the display screen of the electronic device. That is, the method preferably images everything on the electronic device (eg, any keyboard on a Blackberry lit up).

The method preferably subtracts the analysis image from the first image. The method also preferably multiplies the analysis image by a multiplier to account for changes in screen brightness. For example, the multiplier is 1 if the brightness of the screen did not change between the two images. If the brightness of the screen during the analysis image was half the brightness of the "first image" during the analysis image, multiply the analysis image by 2 to match the brightness and improve subtraction (basic Essentially, there is a brightness compensation factor to account for screens with auto-brightness that change when the dome light of the kiosk is on/off). This image is a "synthetic" image because it has been partially synthesized by subtraction. Subtracted image is used synonymously with composite image.

The method preferably compares the subtracted image with all different training images of the electronic device to first identify the electronic device and then analyze the defects after the electronic device identification. However, the main purpose of subtraction is to produce an image of what the electronic device's screen looks like when it is in the off state. This is because it is preferable to first identify the electronic device by comparing an image of such appearance with a training image of the electronic device when the screen is off. Then, after the electronic device has been identified (or after the expected appearance, which may be a set of 5 or 10 similar electronic devices), the defects are analyzed.

Preferably, an image of the electronic device in the kiosk is generated and compared with the training data to identify the electronic device and determine the status of all its features.

In another embodiment, there are two steps in the process: 1) Obtain a contour image to determine the location of the electronic device within the kiosk and the size of the electronic device (e.g., side view, electronic device 2) By obtaining a fully lit image and "mapping the texture" of the electronic device on the contour image, not only the contour but also the electronic device when the electronic device is surrounded by light Determine the actual appearance of the device.

In one embodiment, the mirror is a small portion of the wall of the chamber. Most of the walls are preferably white plastic/paint to diffuse the light to create even lighting and minimize specular reflections.

Five of the six sides of the electronic device are shown in the preferred kiosk. The top camera sees the front and three sides (left, top, right) of the electronic device, and the bottom camera sees the back of the electronic device. Since there are three mirrors instead of four, the top portion of the bottom portion of the electronic device (where the cable connector is located in the case of an IPHONE phone) is not visible. So the combination of both cameras will see 5 of the 6 sides and the top camera will see only 4 of the 6 sides. The position, size, shape and color of all buttons are imaged independently of their function. For example, the IPHONE4S cell phone looks identical to the VERIZON IPHONE4 cell phone (except that the SIM card slot is on the side). As such, kiosk 100 uses the presence of a SIM card slot to determine that the electronic device is an IPHONE4S cell phone rather than a VERIZON IPHONE4 cell phone.

The present invention preferably extracts features from training images and stores these features in a database along with other information (eg, electronic device make and model, screen area/location and other data).

The "surrounding image" should preferably not be used to detect defects in the screen. The present invention analyzes image contours (regions) to aid in device identification. This is because the contour gives the dimensions of the phone and helps narrow down the devices in the training database to be compared. (Only compare with other phones).

FIG. 10 is an image of the mobile phone 150 with the light on. A mobile phone display screen 153 is attested. Touch screen buttons 153a-153c are visible. Physical buttons 156 , 157 and 159 are visible on the periphery of phone 150 . Figure 11 is an image of the phone of Figure 10 when the lights are off. The display screen 153 is barely visible. FIG. 12 is a subtraction result obtained by subtracting the image of the phone 150 with the lights on from the image of the phone 150 with the lights off. FIG. 13 is an image of the phone when the display screen 153 is off. FIG. 14 shows the line intensity profile of the image of FIG. 13 (solid line 1401) and the image of phone 150 of FIG. 12 (dashed line 1402). The spike at time 211 indicates the text region in FIG.

Another aspect of the invention is the detection of counterfeit electronic devices. As shown in FIG. 15, an image of a lit fraudulent mobile phone 150 (when the inspection area light is turned on) is printed on cardboard and on the underside of the display screen glass 153 rather than the LCD. Show the placed photo. This image has many and color variations over the screen area. However, there is no light emission from the mobile phone at all. When the light in the examination area is turned off, the display screen of mobile phone 150 is blank as shown in FIG. As such, the kiosk 150 of the present invention can automatically detect non-genuine (counterfeit) electronic devices. Additionally, images of fake phones are stored in the database for training. This is because such images are often used multiple times. Also, fake phones do not contain electronic components in the housing. Thus, if the kiosk 100 is equipped with a weight scale, another means of detecting a counterfeit phone is possible, as the mass of a counterfeit phone is different than a genuine phone.

Another aspect of the invention is the detection of cracks in a phone screen. As shown in FIG. 17, the image of the genuine mobile phone 150 has cracks in the display screen 153. FIG. By performing a color entropy metric, the present invention can distinguish between an actual crack in the display screen glass and an image containing multiple color variations. This is because cracks in glass do not produce different colors.

Claims (18)

A consumer-operated kiosk for processing a user's electronic device, said kiosk comprising:
a housing having an opening;
an inspection area within the housing, the inspection area configured to receive the electronic device through the opening, the inspection area having one or more white walls;
One or more lights configured to selectively illuminate the electronic devices within the inspection area, wherein the one or more white walls diffuse light from the one or more lights , one or more lights, and
(i) a first image of the electronic device when the display of the electronic device is turned on and the electronic device is positioned within the inspection area and illuminated by the one or more lights; (ii) a second of the electronic device when the display of the electronic device is powered on and the electronic device is positioned within the inspection area and the one or more lights are turned off; an imaging component configured to capture an image of
one or more connectors configured to operatively connect to the electronic device;
A processor in communication with the imaging component and the one or more connectors, the processor: (i) causing the imaging component to capture the first image and the second image; and (ii) (iii) visual analysis of at least the first image of the electronic device and the one or more tests of the electronic device; (iv) identifying the brand and model of the electronic device based at least in part on testing; A kiosk, comprising: a processor configured to: and verify that the display is operational . The kiosk of claim 1, wherein the one or more connectors are positioned within the inspection area. The processor performs one of (i) the visual analysis of at least the first image , (ii) the analysis of at least the second image, or (iii) the one or more tests of the electronic device . 2. The kiosk of claim 1, configured to determine a monetary consideration for the electronic device based on the foregoing . The kiosk of claim 1, further comprising one or more mirrors within the inspection area to enable 360 degree imaging of the electronic device. The kiosk of claim 1, wherein the imaging component is movable within the inspection area. The kiosk of claim 1, further comprising a second imaging component configured to capture one or more images of the electronic device within the inspection area. 2. The kiosk of claim 1, wherein the one or more tests include testing a battery of the electronic device, the display of the electronic device, or memory of the electronic device. 2. The kiosk of claim 1, further comprising a user interface on an exterior surface of said housing for said user to enter information about said electronic device. 9. The kiosk of Claim 8 , wherein the user interface comprises a display screen. A method of processing electronic devices using a consumer-actuated kiosk, said kiosk comprising:
a housing;
an inspection area within the housing, the inspection area having one or more white walls;
one or more lights;
a first imaging component;
one or more connectors configured to operatively connect to an electronic device;
a processor in communication with the first imaging component and the one or more connectors;
wherein the method comprises:
the inspection area receiving an electronic device;
the one or more lights illuminating the electronic device within the inspection area;
the one or more white walls diffuse light from the one or more lights;
When the display of the electronic device is powered on and the electronic device is positioned within the inspection area and illuminated by the one or more lights, the first imaging component Capturing a first image of the device;
when the display of the electronic device is powered on, the electronic device is positioned within the inspection area, and the one or more lights are turned off, the first imaging component comprises: capturing a second image of the electronic device;
the processor electrically testing the electronic device via the one or more connectors;
said processor identifying a brand and model of said electronic device, said identifying said brand and model comprising visual analysis of at least said first image of said electronic device and said electrical testing of said electronic device; based at least in part on
the processor determining operability of the display of the electronic device based at least in part on analysis of at least the second image of the electronic device;
method including. the processor based on one or more of (i) the visual analysis of at least the first image ; (ii) the analysis of at least the second image; and (iii) the electrical test of the electronic device. 11. The method of claim 10 , further comprising: determining a monetary value of said electronic device. 11. The method of claim 10 , wherein the kiosk further comprises a user interface on an exterior surface of the kiosk, the method further comprising receiving user input regarding the electronic device. 4. The kiosk further comprising a second imaging component, the method further comprising capturing a third image of the electronic device within the inspection area. 10. The method according to 10 . 2. The kiosk of claim 1, wherein said analysis of at least said second image includes comparing said first image and said second image. 2. The kiosk of claim 1, wherein as at least part of the analysis of the second image, the processor is configured to subtract the second image from the first image. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein based at least in part on a portion of said analysis of at least said second image, said processor is configured to determine whether said electronic device is a counterfeit electronic device. Kiosk as described. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein determining the operability of the display of the electronic device comprises the processor subtracting the second image from the first image. Determining the operability of the display of the electronic device involves the processor comparing the first image and the second image to determine whether the electronic device is a counterfeit electronic device. 11. The method of claim 10, comprising:

Images