WO2018136377A1

WO2018136377A1 - Product shape analyzer for packaging solutions

Info

Publication number: WO2018136377A1
Application number: PCT/US2018/013761
Authority: WO
Inventors: Eric Bunn; Harrald ERNSTEINS; Matthew Thompson
Original assignee: Sealed Air Corporation (Us)
Priority date: 2017-01-18
Filing date: 2018-01-16
Publication date: 2018-07-26

Abstract

Methods and systems can be used to determine packaging characteristics for an object. An input that includes an object model is received. The object model includes can be any of a solid computer-aided drafting model, a mesh model, a point cloud model, a shell model, or a surface model. A number of scan angles with respect to the object model are determined. The object model is scanned from the scan angles. A scan of the object model from one of the scan angles generates object surface data that includes a two-dimensional array of values corresponding to depths to a surface of the object model in a direction corresponding to the one of the scan angles. The object surface data from scans at the scan angles is compiled to form converted object data. The converted object data is analyzed to determine one or more packaging characteristics of the object model.

Description

1 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01

PRODUCT SHAPE ANALYZER FOR PACKAGING SOLUTIONS

SPECIFICATION

BACKGROUND [0001] The present disclosure is in the technical field of packaging design for objects. More particularly, the present disclosure is directed to analysis of an object shape in advance of designing packaging for the object.

[0002] Protective packaging may be used to help protect a product during transport, for example, from physical shock, physical deformation (e.g., scratches, dents, etc.), contaminants, and the like. For example, an object may be enclosed in a container (e.g., a box) with packaging materials (e.g., crumpled paper, air-filled plastic cushions, molded foam) to restrain movement of the object inside the box and to cushion the object. In some cases, the object is placed in a container and then a packaging material (e.g., air-filled cushions) is placed about the object in an effort to fill the voids that form between the object and the container walls. In other cases, a packaging material (e.g., molded foam) is placed around the object and then the object and the protective material are placed in the container.

[0003] The process of providing packaging material for an object can be problematic. The process can be inefficient when it is performed individually each time an object is packaged. The process can also be inadequate for providing the optimum amount of protective packaging material. Not only can the optimum amount of protective packaging material be difficult to determine, the type and placement of the optimum packaging material can also be difficult to determine. While decisions about the type, positioning, and amount of protective materials to use can be based on physical characteristics of the object, and those decisions are not always readily apparent to those who typically package objects for shipment. 2 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01

SUMMARY

[0004] 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 of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0005] In one embodiment, a method is used to determine packaging characteristics for an object. The method includes one or more computing devices receiving an input that includes an object model, defining a plurality of scan angles with respect to the object model, and scanning the object model from the plurality of scan angles. A scan of the object model from one of the plurality of scan angles generates object surface data that includes a two-dimensional array of values corresponding to depths to a surface of the object model in a direction corresponding to the one of the plurality of scan angles. The method further includes the one or more computing devices compiling the object surface data from scans at the plurality of scan angles to form converted object data and analyzing the converted object data to determine one or more packaging characteristics of the object.

[0006] In one example, the object model includes one or more of a solid computer- aided drafting model, a mesh model, or a point cloud model, a shell model, or a surface model. In another example, the object model is received by the one or more computing devices from one or more of a three-dimensional scanning system or an imaging system. In another example, the plurality of scan angles include three pairs of scan angles, and wherein one of the pairs of scan angles is substantially perpendicular to the other two pairs of scan angles. In another example, the plurality of scan angles includes at least a first scan angle and a second scan angle, and the first scan angle is substantially non-parallel and substantially non-perpendicular to the second scan angle.

[0007] In another example, the method further includes determining the one or more computing devices a suggested packaging solution for the object based on the one or more packaging characteristics of the object. In another example, the method 3 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 further includes the one or more computing devices receiving a user input indicative of a physical characteristic of the object, and determining the suggested packaging solution for the object is further based on the physical characteristic of the object indicated by the user input. In another example, the physical characteristic of the object indicated by the user input includes one or more of a weight of the object, a density of the object, or a center of gravity of the object. In another example, the method further includes the one or more computing devices receiving a user input indicative of a characteristic of packaging material and determining the suggested packaging solution for the object is further based on the characteristic of packaging material indicated by the user input. In another example, the method further includes the one or more computing devices displaying a representation of the object based on the converted object data and displaying a representation of the suggested packaging solution for the object with the representation of the object. In another example, the method further includes the one or more computing devices displaying a plurality of representations of the object based on the converted object data, where at least two of the plurality of representations of the object are from different angles, and displaying a representation of the suggested packaging solution for the object with each of the plurality of representations of the object.

[0008] In another embodiment, a system to determine packaging characteristics for an object includes one or more processing elements and one or more memories communicatively coupled to the one or more processing elements. The one or more memories include instructions that, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, cause the system to receive an input that includes an object model, define a plurality of scan angles with respect to the object model, and scan the object model from the plurality of scan angles. A scan of the object model from one of the plurality of scan angles generates object surface data that includes a two-dimensional array of values corresponding to depths to a surface of the object model in a direction corresponding to the one of the plurality of scan angles. The one or more memories include instructions that, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, further cause the system to compile the object surface data from scans at the plurality of scan angles to form converted object data 4 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 and analyze the converted object data to determine one or more packaging characteristics of the object model.

[0009] In one example, the object model includes one or more of a solid computer- aided drafting model, a mesh model, or a point cloud model, a shell model, or a surface model. In another example, the object model is received by the system from one or more of a three-dimensional scanning system or an imaging system. In another example, the instructions, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, further cause the system to determine a suggested packaging solution for the object based on the one or more packaging characteristics of the object. In another example, the instructions, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, further cause the system to receive a user input indicative of a physical characteristic of the object, where the system is configured to determine the suggested packaging solution for the object further based on the physical characteristic of the object indicated by the user input. In another example, the instructions, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, further cause the system to receive a user input indicative of a

characteristic of packaging material, the system is configured to determine the suggested packaging solution for the object further based on the characteristic of packaging material indicated by the user input. In another example, the instructions, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, further cause the system to cause a representation of the object based on the converted object data to be displayed and cause a representation of the suggested packaging solution for the object to be displayed with the representation of the object.

[0010] In another embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is usable to determine packaging characteristics for an object. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes instructions that, in response to execution by one or more processing elements of one or more computing devices, cause the one or more computing devices to receive an input that includes an object model, define a plurality of scan angles with respect to the object model, and scan the object model from the plurality of scan angles. A scan of the object model from 5 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 one of the plurality of scan angles generates object surface data that includes a two- dimensional array of values corresponding to depths to a surface of the object model in a direction corresponding to the one of the plurality of scan angles. The non- transitory computer-readable storage medium further includes instructions that, in response to execution by the one or more processing elements, cause the one or more computing devices to compile the object surface data from scans at the plurality of scan angles to form converted object data and analyze the converted object data to determine one or more packaging characteristics of the object model.

[0011] In one example, the object model includes one or more of a solid computer- aided drafting model, a mesh model, or a point cloud model, a shell model, or a surface model. In another example, the object model is received by the one or more computing devices from one or more of a three-dimensional scanning system or an imaging system. In another example, the instructions, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, further cause the one or more computing devices to determine a suggested packaging solution for the object based on the one or more packaging characteristics of the object. In another example, the

instructions, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, further cause the one or more computing devices to receive a user input indicative of a physical characteristic of the object, where the one or more computing devices are configured to determine the suggested packaging solution for the object further based on the physical characteristic of the object indicated by the user input. In another example, the instructions, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, further cause the one or more computing devices to receive a user input indicative of a characteristic of packaging material, where the one or more computing devices are configured to determine the suggested packaging solution for the object further based on the characteristic of packaging material indicated by the user input. In another example, the instructions, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, further cause the one or more computing devices to cause a representation of the object based on the converted object data to be displayed and cause a representation of the suggested packaging solution for the object to be displayed with the representation of the object. 6 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0012] The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of the disclosed subject matter will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0013] Fig. 1 A depicts an embodiment of an object model of an object, in accordance with the embodiments described herein;

[0014] Fig. 1 B depicts an embodiment of defined scan angles with respect to the object model shown in Fig. 1A, in accordance with the embodiments described herein;

[0015] Fig. 2 depicts a perspective view of the object model shown in Fig. 1A and views of the object model from each of the scan angles defined in Fig. 1 B, in accordance with the embodiments described herein;

[0016] Figs. 3 to 5 depict scans of the object model shown in Fig. 1 A from various scan angles defined in Fig. 1 B, in accordance with the embodiments described herein;

[0017] Fig. 6 depicts a compilation of object surface data obtained from the scans depicted in Figs. 3 to 5, in accordance with the embodiments described herein;

[0018] Fig. 7 depicts an embodiment of a method of determining packaging characteristics for an object, in accordance with the embodiments described herein;

[0019] Fig. 8A depicts an embodiment of an object model of an object in the form of a mesh model, in accordance with the embodiments described herein; 7 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01

[0020] Fig. 8B depicts an embodiment of defined scan angles with respect to the object model shown in Fig. 8A, in accordance with the embodiments described herein;

[0021] Fig. 9 depicts an embodiment of a computer-aided drafting application used to create an object model, in accordance with the embodiments described herein;

[0022] Figs. 10 to 12 depict various instances of a scan of the object model shown in Fig. 9 from one scan angle and an embodiment of a spreadsheet populated during the scan, in accordance with the embodiments described herein;

[0023] Fig. 13 depicts a perspective view of the object model and the scan boundary depicted in Fig. 9 and the scan and the object surface data developed in Figs. 10 to 12, in accordance with the embodiments described herein;

[0024] Fig. 14 depicts a perspective view of the object surface data developed in Figs. 10 to 12 without the object model, in accordance with the embodiments described herein; [0025] Figs. 15 and 16 depict embodiments of a user interface that depicts a representation of an object based on converted object data and that also permits a user to view and/or edit a suggested packaging solution, in accordance with the embodiments described herein;

[0026] Fig. 17 depicts an example embodiment of a system that may be used to implement some or all of the embodiments described herein; and

[0027] Fig. 18 depicts a block diagram of an embodiment of a computing device, in accordance with the embodiments described herein. 8 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] The present disclosure describes embodiments of systems and methods of determining packaging characteristics for an object. In particular, described herein are systems and methods that permit a user to determining packaging

characteristics for an object based on a three-dimensional model of the object. In some embodiments, the user does not need to have expensive or sophisticated computer-aided drafting software to be able to cause the three-dimensional model of the object for analysis to determine packaging characteristics for the object. In some embodiments, the user is provided with a suggested packaging solution and the user is able to provide inputs that are taken into account when determining the suggested packaging solution.

[0029] Depicted in Fig. 1A is an embodiment of an object model 100 of an object. The object model 100 is a three-dimensional representation of the object that is displayable by a computing device. In the depicted embodiment, the object model 100 is a solid computer-aided drafting (CAD) model. In some examples, a solid CAD model defines a volume taken up by the object in three dimensions. In other embodiments, object models can be in the form of mesh models, point cloud models, shell models, surface models, or any other form of model that approximates an object and/or its three-dimensional surfaces. In some examples, a mesh model represents surfaces that form the boundary of the object. A mesh model may be made up of vertices in three-dimensional space that are connected by edges that form the boundary of faces. A number of connected faces form the three- dimensional boundary of the object. A point cloud may be a set of points in the three-dimensional space that represent a point on the surface of the object. A shell model may be a set of hollow shells that define surfaces of an object without defining its interior volume. A surface model may be include non-uniform rational Basis spline (NURBS) curves and contours to define edges and surfaces of an object without defining its volume. Is some embodiments, object models are provided in the form of initial graphics exchange specification (IGES), standard for the exchange of product model data (STEP), ACIS, and/or programmer's hierarchical interactive 9 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 graphics system (PHIGS) files. In some examples, an object model is determined by a three-dimensional scanning system that scans a physical, three-dimensional object to generate the object model. In some examples, an object model is determined by an image processing system that processes image data (e.g., multiple

two-dimensional images) of a physical, three-dimensional object to generate the object model.

[0030] The object model 100 can be analyzed in order to determine packaging characteristics for the object. In the depiction shown in Fig. 1 B, scan angles with respect to the object model 100 are defined. In the depicted embodiment, the object model 100 has been placed in a coordinate system with x-, y-, and z-planes. Also in the depicted embodiment, scan angles 102, 104, 106, 108, 1 10, and 1 12 have been defined. The scan angles 102 and 106 are perpendicular to the z-plane. The scan angles 104 and 108 are perpendicular to the y-plane. The scan angles 1 10 and 1 12 are perpendicular to the x-plane. Thus, in the embodiment depicted in Fig. 1 B, three pairs of scan angles have been defined with respect to the object model 100 and one of the pairs of scan angles (e.g., scan angles 102 and 106) is substantially perpendicular to the other two pairs of scan angles (e.g., scan angles 104 and 108 and scan angles 1 10 and 1 12). In other embodiments, the scan angles include scan angles that are both substantially non-parallel and substantially non-perpendicular to each other. The object model 100 can be scanned from each of the scan angles 102, 104, 106, 108, 1 10, and 1 12. Depicted in Fig. 2 are views of the object model 100, including a perspective view of the object model 100 and views from each of the scan angles 102, 104, 106, 108, 1 10, and 1 12.

[0031] In some embodiments, a scan of the object model 100 from a scan angle generates object surface data that includes a two-dimensional array of values corresponding to depths to a surface of the object model in the direction of the scan angle. A scan 122 of the object model 100 from the scan angle 102 is shown in Fig. 3. The scan 122 of the object model 100 from the scan angle 102 generates object surface data 142. The object surface data 142 includes a two-dimensional array of 10 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 values (represented as dots in Fig. 3) corresponding to depths to a surface of the object model 100 in the direction of the scan angle 102. In the depicted

embodiment, the two-dimensional array is a grid. In other embodiments, the two- dimensional array can be any two-dimensional arrangement, such as a pattern other than a grid, a random arrangement, a pseudo-random arrangement, and the like. In the depicted embodiment, the object surface data 142 does not include values where the two-dimensional array does not contact the object model 100. The object surface data 142 generated by the scan 122 in the direction of the scan angle 102 are shown in the perspective view of the object model 100 shown in Fig. 3. [0032] Fig. 4 depicts continued scanning of the object model 100. More specifically, a scan 124 of the object model 100 from the scan angle 104 is shown in Fig. 4. The scan 124 of the object model 100 from the scan angle 104 generates object surface data 144. The object surface data 144 includes a two-dimensional array of values (represented as dots in Fig. 4) corresponding to depths to a surface of the object model 100 in the direction of the scan angle 104. In the depicted embodiment, the object surface data 144 does not include values where the two-dimensional array does not contact the object model 100. The object surface data 144 generated by the scan 124 in the direction of the scan angle 104 are shown in the perspective view of the object model 100 shown in Fig. 4. [0033] Fig. 5 depicts continued scanning of the object model 100. More specifically, scans 126, 128, 130, and 132 of the object model 100 from the scan angles 106, 108, 1 10, and 1 12, respectively, are shown in Fig. 5. The scans 126, 128, 130, and 132 of the object model 100 from the scan angles 106, 108, 1 10, and 1 12 generate object surface data 146, 148, 150, and 152, respectively. The object surface data 146, 148, 150, and 152 include two-dimensional arrays of values (represented as dots in Fig. 5) corresponding to depths to a surface of the object model 100 in the direction of the scan angles 106, 108, 1 10, and 1 12. The object surface data 146 and 148 generated by the scans 126 and 128 in the directions of the scan angles 1 1 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01

106 and 108, respectively, are shown in the perspective view of the object model 100 shown in Fig. 5.

[0034] As can be seen in the perspective view shown in Fig. 5, the object surface data from scans of different scan angles can be compiled to form converted object data. More specifically, the perspective view shown in Fig. 5 depicts the object surface data 142, 144, 148, and 150 compiled and shown in the same three- dimensional space with the object model 100. As can be seen in Fig. 6, the object surface data 142, 144, 148, and 150 has been compiled and shown in the same three-dimensional space without the object model 100. As can be seen in both Figs. 5 and 6, some of the surfaces of the object model 100 are defined by object surface data from different scan angles. In one example, some of the values of the object surface data 142 and some of the values of the object surface data 150 define one of the surfaces of the object model 100. In another example, some of the values of the object surface data 144 and some of the values of the object surface data 150 define one of the surfaces of the object model 100.

[0035] Using the converted object data compiled from the object surface data 142, 144, 148, and 150 shown in Fig. 6, one or more packaging characteristics of the object can be determined. In one example, the one or more packaging

characteristics include overall dimensions (e.g., the overall height, width, and/or height) of the object. This allows packaging materials to be produced to surround the object. In another example, the one or more packaging characteristics include the angles of the surfaces of the object. This allows packaging to be designed to fit the shape of the object. In another example, the one or more packaging

characteristics include the weight distribution of the object. This allows packaging to be designed to appropriate packaging materials for heavier and/or lighter portions of the object. In some embodiments, the one or more packaging characteristics include any of the characteristics mentioned here, any characteristic not mentioned here, or any combination of those characteristics. 12 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01

[0036] Depicted in Fig. 7 is an embodiment of a method 200 of determining packaging characteristics for an object. At block 202, an input object model is received. In some embodiments, the object model includes a solid computer-aided drafting model, a mesh model, a point cloud model, a shell model, or a surface model. In some embodiments, the object model is received from a three- dimensional scanning system or an imaging system. At block 204, scan angles are defined with respect to the object model. In some embodiments, the scan angles include three pairs of scan angles and one of the pairs of scan angles is substantially perpendicular to the other two pairs of scan angles. In some embodiments, the scan angles include a first scan angle and a second scan angle, and the first scan angle is substantially non-parallel and substantially non-perpendicular to the second scan angle.

[0037] At block 206, the object model is scanned from the scan angles. In some embodiments, a scan at the one of the scan angles generates object surface data that includes a two-dimensional array of values corresponding to depths to a surface of the object model in a direction corresponding to the one of the scan angles. At block 208, the object surface data from scans at the scan angles is compiled to form converted object data. At block 210, the converted object data is analyzed to determine one or more packaging characteristics of the object. [0038] One benefit of the method 200 is that the method 200 may be performed without the need to have and/or be able to operate CAD software. One problem with the CAD software is that licenses to CAD software can be expensive. Another problem with CAD software is that some types of CAD software require significant skill to operate properly. The method 200 may be performed without requiring a user to have a license to CAD software or be able to operate CAD software. For example, the method 200 may be embodied in computer-executable instructions that permit a user to cause one or more computing devices to perform the method 200 without the need for CAD software to be installed on the one or more computing devices. Even if the input object model is a solid CAD model, the computer- 13 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 executable instructions may be executed by one or more computing devices to perform the method 200 without CAD software installed on the one or more computing devices.

[0039] The embodiment of the object model 100 shown in Figs. 1 A to 6 is a solid CAD model. However, as noted above, the systems and methods described herein may be in the form of other types object model, such as a mesh model, a point cloud model, a shell model, or a surface model. Depicted in Fig. 8A is an embodiment of an object model 300 in the form of a mesh model. The object model 300 includes faces 302 that define outer boundaries of the object model 300. The faces 302 are bordered by edges 304 that extend between vertices. In the depicted embodiment, the edges 304 are coplanar to that the faces 302 are flat. However, in other embodiments, the faces 302 can be curves that define contoured surfaces. In the depicted embodiment, the faces 302 are triangular in shape. In other embodiments, the faces 302 can have any polygon shape or any non-polygonal shape. The faces 302 define the outer boundaries of the object model 300 without defining the volume inside.

[0040] In some embodiments, the object model 300 can be reduced to form a coarser mesh model before scanning the object model 300. Reducing the object model 300 may reduce the processing time necessary to scan the object model 300. Reducing the object model 300 may increase the discrepancy between the dimensions of the object model 300 and its corresponding physical object. However, many packaging materials are not rigid (e.g., air-filled cushions, foam materials, crumpled paper materials, etc.) and do not have set outer dimensions. Thus, any discrepancy between the dimensions of the object model 300 and its corresponding physical object from reducing may not be significant enough to adversely affect the protection offered by packaging materials created based on the scanning of the object model 300. 14 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01

[0041] Depicted in Fig. 8B is an embodiment of defining scan angles for the object model 300. As depicted, scan angles 310, 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, and 322 have been defined for the object model 300. The scan angles 310 and 312 are directed toward the top-front-left corner and the top-front-right corner, respectively, of the object model 300. The scan angles 314 and 316 are directed toward the bottom- front-left corner and the bottom-front-right corner, respectively, of the object model 300. The scan angles 318 and 320 are directed toward the top-back-left corner and the top-back-right corner, respectively, of the object model 300. The scan angle 322 is directed to the bottom-back-left corner of the object model and another scan angle (not visible in Fig. 8B) is directed to the bottom-back-right corner of the object model. Because the scan angles 310, 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, and 322 are directed at corners of the object model 300, a scan from one of the scan angles 310, 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, and 322 generates object surface data on three sides of the object model 300. This arrangement may permit for contours on the sides of the object model 300 to be better defined. In addition, the scan angles 310, 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, and 322 includes a number of sets of two scan angles that are both substantially non-parallel and substantially non-perpendicular to each other.

[0042] Scans from the scan angles 310, 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, and 322 can be taken of the object model to generate object surface data that includes a two- dimensional array of values corresponding to depths to a surface of the object model in a direction corresponding to the scan angles. This object surface data generated by the scans can be compiled to form converted object data. The converted object data can be analyzed to determine one or more packaging characteristics of a physical object corresponding to the object model 300. [0043] Depicted in Fig. 9 is an embodiment of a CAD application 400 used to create an object model 402. In the depicted embodiment, the object model 402 is a CAD assembly made up of a number of solid CAD model parts. In other embodiments, the object model 402 is a solid CAD model that is a single part. A user may utilize the CAD application 400 to form the individual CAD parts and to arrange the parts 15 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 together to form the assembly of the object model 402. In other examples, a user may utilize the CAD application 400 to view the object model 402, which was created elsewhere.

[0044] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 9, the object model 402 is shown from a scan angle at which the object is to be scanned. From this view the user may define a scan boundary 404 at which the object model 402 will be scanned from the scan angle. In the depicted embodiment, the entire object model 402 is located within the scan boundary 404. In other embodiments, a portion of the object model 402 may be located out of the scan boundary 404. In one example, the right side of the scan boundary 404 may be pulled to the left such that a portion of the protrusion at the top right of the object model 402 is outside of the scan boundary 404. In this case, the portion of the object model 402 outside of the scan boundary 404 will not be scanned. Doing this may cause a portion of the object model 402 not to be scanned and therefore not included when analyzing the converted object data to determine one or more packaging characteristics of the object. However, the portion of the object not taken into account when determining one or more packaging

characteristics of the object may be small enough to fit within the "give" of non-rigid packaging materials used to cushion the object. While the scan boundary 404 is shown in Fig. 9 inside of the CAD application 400, [0045] With the scan boundary 404 defined in Fig. 9, the object model 402 can be scanned. Depicted in Fig. 10 is a first portion of a scan 406 of the object model 402 completed. The scan 406 generates object surface data 408 that includes a two-dimensional array of values corresponding to depths to a surface of the object model 402 in a direction of the scan angle. In the depicted embodiment, the object surface data 408 is indicated by dots on the object model 402. Also depicted in Fig.

10 is a spreadsheet 420 that contains depth values 422 corresponding to depths to a surface of the object model 402 in the direction of the scan angle. The rows and columns of the spreadsheet 420 correspond with the horizontal and vertical directions in the CAD application 400, as shown in Fig. 10. As the scan 406 16 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 progresses, the spreadsheet 420 is populated with the depth values 422

representing the object surface data 408 at the corresponding horizontal and vertical locations.

[0046] The scan 406 can continue from the instance shown in Fig. 10. Fig. 1 1 depicts the object model 402 with a second portion of the scan 406 completed. As depicted, a greater number of the object surface data 408 dots have been added in the view shown in CAD application 400 and a greater number of the depth values 422 have been added to the spreadsheet 420. The object surface data 408 and the corresponding depth values 422 are saved only in locations where the scan 406 is directed at the object model 402. The scan 406 can continue until the scan is complete, as shown in the instance depicted in Fig. 12. As shown there, the scan 406 has covered the entire area within the scan boundary 404. The object surface data 408 are shown as dots over the entire portion of the object model 402 visible in CAD application 400 and the spreadsheet 420 has been populated with the corresponding depth values 422.

[0047] Depicted in Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the object model 402, the scan boundary 404, the scan 406, and the object surface data 408. The scan 406 placed generated the object surface data 408 on surfaces of the object model 402 that are visible in the scan direction, but did not generate object surface data on other surfaces. In some embodiment, other scans of the object model 402 are performed from other angles to obtain object surface data on surfaces that do not include the object surface data 408 generated during the scan 406. With the object surface data 408 generated by the scan 406, the object model 402 can be removed to end up with the object surface data 408 alone, as shown in the perspective view in Fig. 14. As noted above, the object surface data 408 does not include object surface data of all of the surfaces. Thus, the object surface data 408 can be compiled with other object surface data that includes other surfaces to generate converted object data that provides a more complete indication of the surfaces of the object model 402. 17 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01

[0048] After the object surface data has been generated and compiled into converted object data and the converted object data is analyzed to determine one or more packaging characteristics of the object, a suggested packaging solution for the object can be determined based on the one or more packaging characteristics of the object. Taking the one or more packaging characteristics of the object into account to determine the suggested packaging solution allows the suggested packaging solution to be designed to accommodate the one or more packaging characteristics of the object. In some embodiments, the suggested packaging solution includes a type of packaging materials to be used. In some embodiments, the suggested packaging solution includes an amount of packaging materials (e.g., a number of inflated air pillows, a length of crumpled paper, an amount of chemical to form a foam-in-bag cushion, a length of inflated bubble sheet material, etc.). In some embodiments, the suggested packaging solution includes a density of packaging material (e.g., a density of molded foam). In some embodiments, the suggested packaging solution includes a size and shape of a packaging material (e.g., a size and shape of molded foam).

[0049] Depicted in Fig. 15 is an embodiment of a user interface 500 that permits a user to view and/or edit a suggested packaging solution. In some embodiments, the user interface 500 is accessible via the internet using a web browser on the user's computing device. This allows the user to use the user interface 500 without the need for specialized software (e.g., particular CAD software) to be installed on the user's computing device. In some embodiments, the user interface 500 is

associated with an application installed on the user's computing device.

[0050] In the depicted embodiment, the user interface 500 displays a representation of the object 502 that is based on the converted object data. In some embodiments, the representation of the object 502 is a depiction of the points of the compiled object surface data that make up the converted object data. In some embodiments, the representation of the object 502 is an approximation of a three-dimensional shape (e.g., a mesh model) generated based on the converted object data. In the depicted 18 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 embodiment, the user interface 500 also displays a representation of the suggested packaging solution 504 for the object with the representation of the object 502. The packaging solution 504 depicted in Fig. 15 includes eight molded foam pieces that have been shaped to cushion the object based on the one or more packaging characteristics of the object determined from the converted object data.

[0051] Also depicted in Fig. 15 is an indication of the center of gravity 506 of the object. In some embodiments, the indication of the center of gravity 506 is based on an assumption of uniform density throughout the object. In some embodiments, the indication of the center of gravity 506 is based on a user input, such as a user input indicative of one or more of a weight of the object, a density of the object, or the center of gravity of the object. In the depicted embodiment, the user interface 500 includes a physical characteristics section 508 that displays and/or receives user inputs related to physical characteristics of the object (e.g., weight, density, etc.) and/or a package into which the object will be placed (e.g., a size of the package, a spacing between the object and the package walls, etc.). In some embodiments, the user is able to provide a user input into the physical characteristics section 508 that is indicative of the physical characteristics of the object and/or a package into which the object will be placed. A computing device is able to determine the suggested packaging solution for the object based on the physical characteristic of the object indicated by the user input in the physical characteristics section 508.

[0052] In the depicted embodiment, the user interface 500 also includes a design target selection 510 that permits a user to select a characteristic of the packaging material. In some embodiments, the design target selection 510 allows a user to select from types of packaging material characteristics, such as durability of the packaging material, extended durability of the packaging material, best protection of the object, or source reduction to reduce the amount of packaging material used. In other embodiments, other packaging material characteristics may be selectable. When a user selects a characteristic of the packaging material in the design target 19 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 selection 510, the computing device determines the suggested packaging solution for the object based on the characteristic of the packaging material.

[0053] In the depicted embodiment, the user interface 500 also includes a cushion style selection 512 that permits a user to select a characteristic of the packaging material. In some embodiments, the cushion style selection 512 allows a user to select from types of packaging material characteristics, cap cushions, corner cushions, horizontal rails, or vertical rails. In other embodiments, other packaging material characteristics may be selectable. When a user selects a characteristic of the packaging material in the cushion style selection 512, the computing device determines the suggested packaging solution for the object based on the

characteristic of the packaging material.

[0054] In the depicted embodiment, the user interface 500 also includes a fold out view 514 of the object. The fold out view 514 includes multiple representations of the object based on the converted object data from different angles. The fold out view 514 also depicts a representation of the suggested packaging solution for the object with each of the representations of the object. In some embodiments, the user may select one of the representations of the object in the fold out view 514 to change the view of the larger representation of the object 502. In the depicted embodiment, the user interface 500 also includes multiple other buttons that permit the user to change the view of the larger representation of the object 502. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 15, the left view of the representation of the object 502 has been selected. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 16, the back view of the representation of the object 502 has been selected. In other embodiments, any other view of the representation of the object 502 may be selected. [0055] In some embodiments, the user interface 500 may be hosted by a website that is accessible to a user computing device via a network (e.g., the internet). In such a case the user may submit an object model to the website via the network. The object model may be data from a three-dimensional scanner that is 20 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 communicatively coupled to the user's computing device, a solid CAD model developed by the user on the user's computing device, or any other object model. The website receive the object model, defines scan angles for the object model, scans the object model from the scan angles to generate object surface data, compile the object surface data to generate converted object data, analyze the converted object data to determine one or more packaging characteristics of the object. The website can then display the representation of the object 502 in the user interface 500. In this way, the instructions for performing the methods described herein can reside on a website's computing device (e.g., server) and the user need not have any software on the user's computing device other than software used to interact with the website to submit the object model and to interact with the user interface 500.

[0056] Fig. 17 depicts an example embodiment of a system 610 that may be used to implement some or all of the embodiments described herein. In the depicted embodiment, the system 610 includes computing devices 620i , 6202, 62Ο3, and 620₄ (collectively computing devices 620). In the depicted embodiment, the computing device 620i is a tablet, the computing device 62Ο2 is a mobile phone, the computing device 62Ο3 is a desktop computer, and the computing device 620₄ is a laptop computer. In other embodiments, the computing devices 620 include one or more of a desktop computer, a mobile phone, a tablet, a phablet, a notebook computer, a laptop computer, a distributed system, a gaming console (e.g., Xbox, Play Station, Wii), a watch, a pair of glasses, a key fob, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, an ear piece, a scanner, a television, a dongle, a camera, a wristband, a wearable item, a kiosk, an input terminal, a server, a server network, a blade, a gateway, a switch, a processing device, a processing entity, a set-top box, a relay, a router, a network access point, a base station, any other device configured to perform the functions, operations, and/or processes described herein, or any combination thereof. 21 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01

[0057] The computing devices 620 are communicatively coupled to each other via one or more networks 630 and 632. Each of the networks 630 and 632 may include one or more wired or wireless networks (e.g., a 3G network, the Internet, an internal network, a proprietary network, a secured network). The computing devices 620 are capable of communicating with each other and/or any other computing devices via one or more wired or wireless networks. While the particular system 610 in Fig. 1 depicts that the computing devices 620 communicatively coupled via the network 630 include four computing devices, any number of computing devices may be communicatively coupled via the network 630. [0058] In the depicted embodiment, the computing device 6203 is communicatively coupled with a peripheral device 640 via the network 632. In the depicted

embodiment, the peripheral device 640 is a scanner, such as a barcode scanner, an optical scanner, a computer vision device, and the like. In some embodiments, the network 632 is a wired network (e.g., a direct wired connection between the peripheral device 640 and the computing device 6203), a wireless network (e.g., a Bluetooth connection or a WiFi connection), or a combination of wired and wireless networks (e.g., a Bluetooth connection between the peripheral device 640 and a cradle of the peripheral device 640 and a wired connection between the peripheral device 640 and the computing device 6203). In some embodiments, the peripheral device 640 is itself a computing device (sometimes called a "smart" device). In other embodiments, the peripheral device 640 is not a computing device (sometimes called a "dumb" device).

[0059] Depicted in Fig. 2 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a computing device 700. Any of the computing devices 620 and/or any other computing device described herein may include some or all of the components and features of the computing device 700. In some embodiments, the computing device 700 is one or more of a desktop computer, a mobile phone, a tablet, a phablet, a notebook computer, a laptop computer, a distributed system, a gaming console (e.g., an Xbox, a Play Station, a Wii), a watch, a pair of glasses, a key fob, a radio frequency 22 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 identification (RFID) tag, an ear piece, a scanner, a television, a dongle, a camera, a wristband, a wearable item, a kiosk, an input terminal, a server, a server network, a blade, a gateway, a switch, a processing device, a processing entity, a set-top box, a relay, a router, a network access point, a base station, any other device configured to perform the functions, operations, and/or processes described herein, or any combination thereof. Such functions, operations, and/or processes may include, for example, transmitting, receiving, operating on, processing, displaying, storing, determining, creating/generating, monitoring, evaluating, comparing, and/or similar terms used herein. In one embodiment, these functions, operations, and/or processes can be performed on data, content, information, and/or similar terms used herein.

[0060] In the depicted embodiment, the computing device 700 includes a processing element 705, memory 710, a user interface 715, and a communications interface 720. The processing element 705, memory 710, a user interface 715, and a communications interface 720 are capable of communicating via a communication bus 725 by reading data from and/or writing data to the communication bus 725. The computing device 700 may include other components that are capable of communicating via the communication bus 725. In other embodiments, the computing device does not include the communication bus 725 and the components of the computing device 700 are capable of communicating with each other in some other way.

[0061] The processing element 705 (also referred to as one or more processors, processing circuitry, and/or similar terms used herein) is capable of performing operations on some external data source. For example, the processing element may perform operations on data in the memory 710, data receives via the user interface 715, and/or data received via the communications interface 720. As will be understood, the processing element 705 may be embodied in a number of different ways. In some embodiments, the processing element 705 includes one or more complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), microprocessors, multi-core 23 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 processors, co processing entities, application-specific instruction-set processors (ASIPs), microcontrollers, controllers, integrated circuits, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic arrays (PLAs), hardware accelerators, any other circuitry, or any combination thereof. The term circuitry may refer to an entirely hardware embodiment or a combination of hardware and computer program products. In some embodiments, the processing element 705 is configured for a particular use or configured to execute instructions stored in volatile or nonvolatile media or otherwise accessible to the processing element 705. As such, whether configured by hardware or computer program products, or by a combination thereof, the processing element 705 may be capable of performing steps or operations when configured accordingly.

[0062] The memory 710 in the computing device 700 is configured to store data, computer-executable instructions, and/or any other information. In some

embodiments, the memory 710 includes volatile memory (also referred to as volatile storage, volatile media, volatile memory circuitry, and the like), non-volatile memory (also referred to as non-volatile storage, non-volatile media, non-volatile memory circuitry, and the like), or some combination thereof.

[0063] In some embodiments, volatile memory includes one or more of random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), fast page mode dynamic random access memory (FPM DRAM), extended data-out dynamic random access memory (EDO DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), double data rate type two synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR2 SDRAM), double data rate type three synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR3 SDRAM), Rambus dynamic random access memory (RDRAM), Twin Transistor RAM

(TTRAM), Thyristor RAM (T-RAM), Zero-capacitor (Z-RAM), Rambus in-line memory module (RIMM), dual in-line memory module (DIMM), single in-line memory module (SIMM), video random access memory (VRAM), cache memory (including various 24 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 levels), flash memory, any other memory that requires power to store information, or any combination thereof.

[0064] In some embodiments, non-volatile memory includes one or more of hard disks, floppy disks, flexible disks, solid-state storage (SSS) (e.g., a solid state drive (SSD)), solid state cards (SSC), solid state modules (SSM), enterprise flash drives, magnetic tapes, any other non-transitory magnetic media, compact disc read only memory (CD ROM), compact disc-rewritable (CD-RW), digital versatile disc (DVD), Blu-ray disc (BD), any other non-transitory optical media, read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory

(EEPROM), flash memory (e.g., Serial, NAND, NOR, and/or the like), multimedia memory cards (MMC), secure digital (SD) memory cards, Memory Sticks, conductive-bridging random access memory (CBRAM), phase-change random access memory (PRAM), ferroelectric random-access memory (FeRAM), non- volatile random access memory (NVRAM), magneto-resistive random access memory (MRAM), resistive random-access memory (RRAM), Silicon Oxide-Nitride- Oxide-Silicon memory (SONOS), floating junction gate random access memory (FJG RAM), Millipede memory, racetrack memory, any other memory that does not require power to store information, or any combination thereof. [0065] In some embodiments, memory 710 is capable of storing one or more of databases, database instances, database management systems, data, applications, programs, program modules, scripts, source code, object code, byte code, compiled code, interpreted code, machine code, executable instructions, or any other information. The term database, database instance, database management system, and/or similar terms used herein may refer to a collection of records or data that is stored in a computer-readable storage medium using one or more database models, such as a hierarchical database model, network model, relational model, entity relationship model, object model, document model, semantic model, graph model, or any other model. 25 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01

[0066] The user interface 715 of the computing device 700 is in communication with one or more input or output devices that are capable of receiving inputs into and/or outputting any outputs from the computing device 700. Embodiments of input devices include a keyboard, a mouse, a touchscreen display, a touch sensitive pad, a motion input device, movement input device, an audio input, a pointing device input, a joystick input, a keypad input, peripheral device 640, foot switch, and the like. Embodiments of output devices include an audio output device, a video output, a display device, a motion output device, a movement output device, a printing device, and the like. In some embodiments, the user interface 715 includes hardware that is configured to communicate with one or more input devices and/or output devices via wired and/or wireless connections.

[0067] The communications interface 720 is capable of communicating with various computing devices and/or networks. In some embodiments, the communications interface 720 is capable of communicating data, content, and/or any other information, that can be transmitted, received, operated on, processed, displayed, stored, and the like. Communication via the communications interface 720 may be executed using a wired data transmission protocol, such as fiber distributed data interface (FDDI), digital subscriber line (DSL), Ethernet, asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), frame relay, data over cable service interface specification (DOCSIS), or any other wired transmission protocol. Similarly, communication via the communications interface 720 may be executed using a wireless data transmission protocol, such as general packet radio service (GPRS), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Code Division Multiple Access 2000 (CDMA2000), CDMA2000 1X (1 xRTT), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE), Time Division-Synchronous Code Division Multiple Access (TD-SCDMA), Long Term Evolution (LTE), Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN), Evolution-Data Optimized (EVDO), High Speed Packet Access (HSPA), High-Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), IEEE 802.1 1 (WiFi), WiFi Direct, 802.16

(WiMAX), ultra wideband (UWB), infrared (IR) protocols, near field communication 26 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01

(NFC) protocols, Wibree, Bluetooth protocols, wireless universal serial bus (USB) protocols, or any other wireless protocol.

[0068] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, one or more components of the computing device 700 may be located remotely from other components of the computing device 700 components, such as in a distributed system. Furthermore, one or more of the components may be combined and additional components performing functions described herein may be included in the computing device 700. Thus, the computing device 700 can be adapted to accommodate a variety of needs and circumstances. The depicted and described architectures and descriptions are provided for exemplary purposes only and are not limiting to the various

embodiments described herein.

[0069] Embodiments described herein may be implemented in various ways, including as computer program products that comprise articles of manufacture. A computer program product may include a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing applications, programs, program modules, scripts, source code, program code, object code, byte code, compiled code, interpreted code, machine code, executable instructions, and/or the like (also referred to herein as executable instructions, instructions for execution, computer program products, program code, and/or similar terms used herein interchangeably). Such non-transitory computer- readable storage media include all computer-readable media (including volatile and non-volatile media).

[0070] As should be appreciated, various embodiments of the embodiments described herein may also be implemented as methods, apparatus, systems, computing devices, and the like. As such, embodiments described herein may take the form of an apparatus, system, computing device, and the like executing instructions stored on a computer readable storage medium to perform certain steps or operations. Thus, embodiments described herein may be implemented entirely in hardware, entirely in a computer program product, or in an embodiment that 27 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 comprises combination of computer program products and hardware performing certain steps or operations.

[0071] Embodiments described herein may be made with reference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations. Thus, it should be understood that blocks of a block diagram and flowchart illustrations may be implemented in the form of a computer program product, in an entirely hardware embodiment, in a combination of hardware and computer program products, or in apparatus, systems, computing devices, and the like carrying out instructions, operations, or steps. Such

instructions, operations, or steps may be stored on a computer readable storage medium for execution buy a processing element in a computing device. For example, retrieval, loading, and execution of code may be performed sequentially such that one instruction is retrieved, loaded, and executed at a time. In some exemplary embodiments, retrieval, loading, and/or execution may be performed in parallel such that multiple instructions are retrieved, loaded, and/or executed together. Thus, such embodiments can produce specifically configured machines performing the steps or operations specified in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations. Accordingly, the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations support various combinations of embodiments for performing the specified instructions, operations, or steps. [0072] For purposes of this disclosure, terminology such as "upper," "lower,"

"vertical," "horizontal," "inwardly," "outwardly," "inner," "outer," "front," "rear," and the like, should be construed as descriptive and not limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter. Further, the use of "including," "comprising," or "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless limited otherwise, the terms "connected," "coupled," and "mounted" and variations thereof herein are used broadly and encompass direct and indirect connections, couplings, and mountings. Unless stated otherwise, the terms "substantially," "approximately," and the like are used to mean within 5% of a target value. 28 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01

[0073] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of the present disclosure have been described in the foregoing description. However, aspects of the present disclosure which are intended to be protected are not to be construed as limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Further, the

embodiments described herein are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. It will be appreciated that variations and changes may be made by others, and equivalents employed, without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such variations, changes, and

equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, as claimed.

Claims

29 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1 . A method of determining packaging characteristics for an object, the method comprising:

receiving, by one or more computing devices, an input that includes an object model;

defining, by the one or more computing devices, a plurality of scan angles with respect to the object model;

scanning, by the one or more computing devices, the object model from the plurality of scan angles, wherein a scan of the object model from one of the plurality of scan angles generates object surface data that includes a two-dimensional array of values corresponding to depths to a surface of the object model in a direction corresponding to the one of the plurality of scan angles;

compiling, by the one or more computing devices, the object surface data from scans at the plurality of scan angles to form converted object data; and

analyzing, by the one or more computing devices, the converted object data to determine one or more packaging characteristics of the object.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the object model includes one or more of a solid computer-aided drafting model, a mesh model, a point cloud model, a shell model, or a surface model.

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the object model is received by the one or more computing devices from one or more of a three-dimensional scanning system or an imaging system.

4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of scan angles include three pairs of scan angles, and wherein one of the pairs of scan angles is substantially perpendicular to the other two pairs of scan angles. 30 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of scan angles includes at least a first scan angle and a second scan angle, and wherein the first scan angle is substantially non-parallel and substantially non-perpendicular to the second scan angle.

6. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:

determining, by the one or more computing devices, a suggested packaging solution for the object based on the one or more packaging characteristics of the object.

7. The method of claim 6, further comprising:

receiving, by the one or more computing devices, a user input indicative of a physical characteristic of the object;

wherein determining the suggested packaging solution for the object is further based on the physical characteristic of the object indicated by the user input.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the physical characteristic of the object indicated by the user input includes one or more of a weight of the object, a density of the object, or a center of gravity of the object.

9. The method of claim 6, further comprising:

receiving, by the one or more computing devices, a user input indicative of a characteristic of packaging material;

wherein determining the suggested packaging solution for the object is further based on the characteristic of packaging material indicated by the user input.

10. The method of claim 6, further comprising:

displaying, by the one or more computing devices, a representation of the object based on the converted object data; and

displaying, by the one or more computing devices, a representation of the suggested packaging solution for the object with the representation of the object.

1 1 . The method of claim 6, further comprising: 31 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 displaying, by the one or more computing devices, a plurality of

representations of the object based on the converted object data, wherein at least two of the plurality of representations of the object are from different angles; and displaying, by the one or more computing devices, a representation of the suggested packaging solution for the object with each of the plurality of

representations of the object.

12. A system to determine packaging characteristics for an object, the system comprising:

one or more processing elements; and

one or more memories communicatively coupled to the one or more processing elements, wherein the one or more memories include instructions that, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, cause the system to:

receive an input that includes an object model,

define a plurality of scan angles with respect to the object model, scan the object model from the plurality of scan angles, wherein a scan of the object model from one of the plurality of scan angles generates object surface data that includes a two-dimensional array of values corresponding to depths to a surface of the object model in a direction corresponding to the one of the plurality of scan angles,

compile the object surface data from scans at the plurality of scan angles to form converted object data, and

analyze the converted object data to determine one or more packaging characteristics of the object model.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the object model includes one or more of a solid computer-aided drafting model, a mesh model, a point cloud model, a shell model, or a surface model.

14. The system of claim 12, wherein the object model is received by the system from one or more of a three-dimensional scanning system or an imaging system. 32 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01

15. The system of claim 12, wherein the instructions, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, further cause the system to:

determine a suggested packaging solution for the object based on the one or more packaging characteristics of the object.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the instructions, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, further cause the system to:

receive a user input indicative of a physical characteristic of the object;

wherein the system is configured to determine the suggested packaging solution for the object further based on the physical characteristic of the object indicated by the user input.

17. The system of claim 15, wherein the instructions, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, further cause the system to:

receive a user input indicative of a characteristic of packaging material;

wherein the system is configured to determine the suggested packaging solution for the object further based on the characteristic of packaging material indicated by the user input.

18. The system of claim 15, wherein the instructions, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, further cause the system to:

cause a representation of the object based on the converted object data to be displayed; and

cause a representation of the suggested packaging solution for the object to be displayed with the representation of the object.

19. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium usable to determine packaging characteristics for an object, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions that, in response to execution by one or more processing elements of one or more computing devices, cause the one or more computing devices to:

receive an input that includes an object model; 33 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01 define a plurality of scan angles with respect to the object model;

scan the object model from the plurality of scan angles, wherein a scan of the object model from one of the plurality of scan angles generates object surface data that includes a two-dimensional array of values corresponding to depths to a surface of the object model in a direction corresponding to the one of the plurality of scan angles;

compile the object surface data from scans at the plurality of scan angles to form converted object data; and

20. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 19, wherein the object model includes one or more of a solid computer-aided drafting model, a mesh model, a point cloud model, a shell model, or a surface model.

21 . The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 19, wherein the object model is received by the one or more computing devices from one or more of a three-dimensional scanning system or an imaging system.

22. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 19, wherein the instructions, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, further cause the one or more computing devices to:

23. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 22, wherein the instructions, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, further cause the one or more computing devices to:

receive a user input indicative of a physical characteristic of the object;

wherein the one or more computing devices are configured to determine the suggested packaging solution for the object further based on the physical characteristic of the object indicated by the user input. 34 Attorney Docket No. D-45522-01

24. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 22, wherein the instructions, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, further cause the one or more computing devices to:

receive a user input indicative of a characteristic of packaging material;

wherein the one or more computing devices are configured to determine the suggested packaging solution for the object further based on the characteristic of packaging material indicated by the user input.

25. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 22, wherein the instructions, in response to being executed by the one or more processing elements, further cause the one or more computing devices to: