WO2016196175A1 - Procédés et systèmes d'évaluation visuelle de dispositifs électroniques - Google Patents
Procédés et systèmes d'évaluation visuelle de dispositifs électroniques Download PDFInfo
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- WO2016196175A1 WO2016196175A1 PCT/US2016/034278 US2016034278W WO2016196175A1 WO 2016196175 A1 WO2016196175 A1 WO 2016196175A1 US 2016034278 W US2016034278 W US 2016034278W WO 2016196175 A1 WO2016196175 A1 WO 2016196175A1
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- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- electronic device
- scanner
- image
- kiosk
- light source
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Classifications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING OR CALCULATING; COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
- G06Q10/30—Administration of product recycling or disposal
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING OR CALCULATING; COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q30/00—Commerce
- G06Q30/02—Marketing; Price estimation or determination; Fundraising
- G06Q30/0207—Discounts or incentives, e.g. coupons or rebates
- G06Q30/0237—Discounts or incentives, e.g. coupons or rebates at kiosk
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING OR CALCULATING; COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q30/00—Commerce
- G06Q30/02—Marketing; Price estimation or determination; Fundraising
- G06Q30/0278—Product appraisal
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING OR CALCULATING; COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q30/00—Commerce
- G06Q30/06—Buying, selling or leasing transactions
- G06Q30/0601—Electronic shopping [e-shopping]
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- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F7/00—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus
- G07F7/06—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by returnable containers, i.e. reverse vending systems in which a user is rewarded for returning a container that serves as a token of value, e.g. bottles
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING OR CALCULATING; COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q40/00—Finance; Insurance; Tax strategies; Processing of corporate or income taxes
- G06Q40/08—Insurance
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02W—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO WASTEWATER TREATMENT OR WASTE MANAGEMENT
- Y02W30/00—Technologies for solid waste management
- Y02W30/50—Reuse, recycling or recovery technologies
- Y02W30/82—Recycling of waste of electrical or electronic equipment [WEEE]
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02W—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO WASTEWATER TREATMENT OR WASTE MANAGEMENT
- Y02W90/00—Enabling technologies or technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to greenhouse gas [GHG] emissions mitigation
Definitions
- the present disclosure is directed generally to methods and systems for processing mobile devices and other consumer electronic devices at, for example, a consumer operated kiosk, and in particular, to systems and methods for visually evaluating such devices.
- Figure 1 A is an isometric view of a machine configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology for recycling mobile phones and/or other electronic devices
- Figure 1 B is an isometric view of the machine of Figure 1A with a portion of a housing removed
- Figure 1 C is a rear isometric view of the machine of Figures 1 A and 1 B with another portion of the housing removed.
- Figures 2A-2D are a series of isometric views of a portion of the machine of Figures 1 A-1 C with a number of exterior panels removed to illustrate operation of the machine in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.
- Figure 3A is an isometric view of a device imaging system configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology
- Figure 3B is a partially exploded isometric view of the device imaging system of Figure 3A
- Figure 3C is a partially exploded front view of the device imaging system of Figures 3A and 3B.
- Figure 4A is an isometric view of a scanner assembly configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology
- Figure 4B is a partially exploded isometric view of the scanner assembly of Figure 4A
- Figure 4C is a partially exploded side view of the scanner assembly of Figures 4A and 4B
- Figure 4D is another isometric view of the scanner assembly of Figures 4A-4C.
- Figure 5 is a flow diagram of a routine for recycling mobile phones and/or other electronic devices in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.
- Figures 6-1 1 are flow diagrams of routines for visually evaluating mobile phones and/or other electronic devices in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology.
- Figure 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating various components associated with the machine of Figures 1A-2D.
- Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of a suitable distributed computing environment for implementing various aspects of the present technology.
- Embodiments of the systems and methods described herein can be used in or with consumer-operated kiosks, counter-top machines, networked processing devices, retailer-assisted machines, and the like.
- Some embodiments of the present technology are directed to consumer-operated kiosks that can perform automatic visual and/or electrical inspections of mobile phones and/or other consumer electronic devices that are submitted to the kiosks for sale or recycling.
- the visual inspections and/or evaluations can be performed using a device imaging system having one or more scanner assemblies.
- a used electronic device e.g., a used smart phone
- carrying out this inspection can be significantly more challenging than it would be in the case of a person-to-person transaction.
- consumer-operated kiosks typically require the user to enter information at a kiosk touchscreen or keypad to help identify the make and model of the mobile device.
- a camera is used to acquire one or more images of the device so that the kiosk can process the images to determine the identity of the device (e.g., the device make and/or model), as well as the presence of any damage to the device.
- the image quality may be poor, and as a result it may be difficult to detect the dimensions and other features of the device.
- the kiosk may not be able to recognize or sufficiently identify a device based on the images.
- the images may not show some types of damage to the device (e.g., hairline cracks in the screen).
- kiosks equipped with conventional cameras may require bulky domes to position the cameras far enough away from the device to capture an adequate image.
- dome-mounted cameras are typically optimized to focus at a particular distance, which can limit the detail that can be captured in images. Additionally, dome-mounted cameras may require diffuse lighting to achieve consistent imaging, but the use of diffuse lighting can limit the detection of cracks or other small defects as compared to spot lighting. Accordingly, such imaging systems may not be able to accurately identify some mobile devices and/or accurately assess the physical condition of the devices.
- Apparatuses, systems, and methods configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology can at least partially address one or more of the problems described above and/or other problems associated with conventional technologies whether or not stated herein.
- self-service kiosks configured in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present technology include a device imaging system having a scanner (e.g., a flatbed scanner) configured to capture one or more images of an electronic device.
- a scanner e.g., a flatbed scanner
- two flatbed scanner assemblies can be positioned in a face-to-face relationship, with the electronic device disposed on a transparent plate between the two scanner assemblies.
- FIG. 1 A is an isometric view of a kiosk 100 having a device imaging system 130 configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.
- the kiosk 100 can be used for recycling and/or other processing of mobile phones and other consumer electronic devices in accordance with the present technology.
- processing is used herein for ease of reference to generally refer to various services and operations that may be performed or facilitated by the kiosk 100 on, with, or otherwise in relation to an electronic device.
- Such services and operations can include, for example, selling, reselling, donating, exchanging, identifying, evaluating, pricing, auctioning, decommissioning, transferring data from or to, reconfiguring, refurbishing, etc., mobile phones and other electronic devices..
- the kiosk 100 can facilitate selling and/or otherwise processing larger consumer electronic devices, such as desktop computers, TVs, game consoles, etc., as well smaller electronic devices such as Google GlassTM, smart-watches, etc.
- the kiosk 100 and various features thereof can be at least generally similar in structure and function to the kiosks and corresponding components and features described in: U.S. Patent No. 8,463,646, titled
- the kiosk 100 is a floor-standing self-service kiosk configured for use by a user 101 (e.g., a consumer, customer, etc.) to recycle, sell, and/or perform other operations on or with a mobile phone 150 or other consumer electronic device.
- the kiosk 100 can be configured for use on a countertop or a similar raised surface.
- the kiosk 100 is configured for use by consumers, in various embodiments the kiosk 100 and/or various portions thereof can also be used by other operators, such as a retail clerk or kiosk assistant to facilitate the selling or other processing of mobile phones and other electronic devices.
- the kiosk 100 includes a housing 102 that is approximately the size of a conventional vending machine.
- the housing 102 can be of conventional manufacture from, for example, sheet metal, plastic panels, etc.
- a plurality of user interface devices are provided on a front portion of the housing 102 for providing instructions and other information to users, and/or for receiving user inputs and other information from users.
- the kiosk 100 can include a display screen 104 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or light emitting diode (LED) display screen, a projected display (such as a heads-up display or a head-mounted device), and so on) for providing information, prompts, etc., to users.
- LCD liquid crystal display
- LED light emitting diode
- the display screen 104 can include a touch screen for receiving user input and responses to displayed prompts.
- the kiosk 100 can include a separate keyboard or keypad for this purpose.
- the kiosk 100 can also include an ID reader or scanner 1 12 (e.g. , a driver's license scanner), a fingerprint reader 1 14, and one or more cameras 1 16 (e.g., digital still and/or video cameras, identified individually as cameras 1 16a and 1 16b).
- the kiosk 100 can additionally include output devices such as a label printer having an outlet 1 10, and a cash dispenser having an outlet 1 18.
- the kiosk 100 can further include a headphone jack 1 1 1 and speakers 1 13 for audibly communicating information to users, as well as one or more lights for visually communicating signals or other information to users, a handset or microphone for receiving verbal input from the user, and/or other user input and output devices.
- the input devices can include a touchpad, pointing device such as a mouse, joystick, pen, game pad, motion sensor, scanner, eye direction monitoring system, etc.
- the kiosk 100 can also include a bar code reader, QR code reader, bag/package dispenser, a digital signature pad, etc.
- the kiosk 100 additionally includes a header 120 having a display screen 122 for displaying marketing advertisements and/or other video or graphical information to attract users to the kiosk.
- the front portion of the housing 102 also includes a retractable access panel or door 106 located directly beneath the display screen 104.
- the access door 106 is configured to automatically retract so that the user can place an electronic device (e.g., the mobile phone 150) in an inspection area 108 for automatic inspection by the kiosk 100.
- Figure 1 B is an isometric view of the kiosk 100 of Figure 1A with the display screen 104, the access door 106, and a portion of the surrounding housing 102 removed for purposes of illustration.
- the device imaging system 130 is disposed within the inspection area 108.
- a transparent inspection plate 144 is movably disposed in front of the device imaging system 130.
- a user wishing to sell an electronic device e.g. , the mobile phone 150
- the inspection plate 144 can then move rearward in the direction of the y-axis to bring the mobile phone 150 into the proximity of the device imaging system 130 for visual inspection.
- a connector carrier 140 is disposed in front of and beneath the inspection plate 144.
- the connector carrier 140 is a rotatable carrousel configured to rotate about a generally horizontal central axis and carries a plurality of electrical connectors (not shown) distributed around an outer periphery thereof.
- the connectors can include a plurality of interchangeable USB connectors configured to provide power and/or exchange data with a variety of different mobile phones and/or other electronic devices.
- the connector carrier 140 is configured to automatically rotate about its axis to position an appropriate one of the connectors adjacent to the subject electronic device, such as the mobile phone 150, that has been placed on the inspection plate 144 for evaluation.
- the connector can then be manually and/or automatically withdrawn from the connector carrier 140 and connected to a port on the mobile phone 150 for electrical analysis.
- Such analysis can include, e.g., an evaluation of the make, model, configuration, condition, etc., using one or more of the methods and/or systems described in detail in the commonly owned patents and patent applications identified herein and incorporated by reference in their entireties.
- Figure 1 C is a rear isometric view of the kiosk 100 of Figure 1A with a portion of the housing 102 removed for purposes of illustrating various internal components.
- a collection bin 134 is disposed beneath the device imaging system 130. Following visual and electrical inspection of the mobile phone 150 and acceptance of remuneration by the user, the mobile phone 150 can be transferred into the collection bin 134 for later retrieval and recycling.
- Figures 2A-2D are a series of isometric views of a portion of the kiosk 100 with the housing 102 removed to illustrate selected components associated with the device imaging system 130 in detail.
- an exterior housing 232 has been removed from the device imaging system 130 to better illustrate various internal components thereof. Referring first to Figures 2A and 2B together, in the illustrated embodiment, the device imaging system 130, the connector carrier 140, and the inspection plate 144 are operably disposed behind the access door 106 ( Figure 1A).
- the inspection plate 144 is configured to translate back and forth along the y-axis (on, e.g., parallel mounting tracks 145a and 145b) to move an electronic device, such as the mobile phone 150, between a first position ( Figure 2A) directly behind the access door 106, and a second position ( Figure 2B) within or at least proximate to the device imaging system 130.
- a gate 238 can be raised to provide clearance for the mobile phone 150 to enter the device imaging system 130.
- the gate 238 can be raised, for example, by rotating a lead screw 239 which is threadably coupled to the gate 238 such that rotation of the lead screw 239 in a first direction causes the gate 238 to raise vertically along the z-axis, and rotation of the lead screw 239 in the opposite direction causes the gate 238 to lower vertically along the z-axis.
- the gate 238 can be raised and lowered using different actuation mechanisms, for example a belt drive, a pneumatic translation system, or other suitable mechanism for raising and lowering the gate 238.
- the inspection plate 144 is transparent, or at least partially transparent (e.g., formed of glass, Plexiglas, etc.) to enable the mobile phone 150 to be scanned and/or otherwise optically evaluated from multiple viewing angles (e.g., top, bottom, sides, etc.) using, e.g., imaging system scanner assemblies positioned above and/or below the inspection plate 144.
- the inspection area 108 can also include weight scales, heat detectors, UV readers/detectors, and the like, for further evaluation of electronic devices placed therein.
- the kiosk 100 can further include an angled binning plate 236 for directing electronic devices from the inspection plate 144 into the collection bin 134 positioned in a lower portion of the kiosk 100.
- the device imaging system 130 includes an upper scanner assembly 202 disposed above the inspection plate 144, and a lower scanner assembly 204 disposed beneath the inspection plate 144.
- the upper scanner assembly 202 includes an upper scanner 264 configured to translate on an upper guide rail 256 along the y-axis.
- the lower scanner assembly 204 includes a lower scanner 266 configured to translate along a lower guide rail 258 along the y-axis.
- the upper scanner 264 and the lower scanner 266 each include imaging elements as described in more detail below to capture images of the mobile phone 150 as the upper and lower scanners 264 and 266 translate with respect to the mobile phone 150 on the inspection plate 144.
- Imaging control electronics 206 are operably coupled to the upper scanner assembly 202 and the lower scanner assembly 204 and are configured to control movement of the scanners 264 and 266 as well as to control image capture.
- the imaging control electronics 206 can include an integrated circuit chip, for example a processor or CPU configured to execute computer-readable instructions to control the upper and lower scanner assemblies 202 and 204, as described in more detail below.
- the imaging control electronics 206 can perform image processing as well, while in other embodiments image processing can be performed by other components such as the kiosk CPU or remote electronic components.
- the imaging control electronics 206 can control movement of the upper and lower scanners 264 and 266 so that they move independently of each other or together in unison.
- the kiosk 100 can be used in a number of different ways to efficiently facilitate the recycling, selling and/or other processing of mobile phones and other consumer electronic devices.
- a user wishing to sell a used electronic device such as the mobile phone 150, approaches the kiosk 100 and identifies the type of device the user wishes to sell by selecting options (e.g., touch screen options) in response to prompts on the display screen 104.
- the kiosk 100 may print and dispense a unique identification label (e.g., a small adhesive-backed sticker with a quick response code (“QR code”), barcode, or other machine-readable indicia, etc.) from the label outlet 1 10 for the user to adhere to the back of the mobile phone 150.
- a unique identification label e.g., a small adhesive-backed sticker with a quick response code (“QR code”), barcode, or other machine-readable indicia, etc.
- QR code quick response code
- the door 106 retracts and opens allowing the user to place the mobile phone 150 onto the inspection plate 144 in the inspection area 108 ( Figure 2A).
- the door 106 then closes, the gate 238 is raised along the z-axis, and the inspection plate 144 moves the mobile phone 150 along the y-axis to position the mobile phone 150 in a scanner field of view 257 as shown in Figure 2B.
- the scanning field of view 257 represents the operative field of view of the device imaging system 130, both from an upper and lower perspective.
- the device imaging system 130 can perform a visual inspection of the mobile phone 150 when the inspection plate 144 is translated to the position shown in Figure 2B.
- the visual inspection can include a computer-implemented visual analysis (e.g., a three- dimensional ("3D") analysis) performed by a processing device within the kiosk 100 (e.g., a CPU) to confirm the identification of the mobile phone 150 (e.g. make, model and/or sub-model) and/or to evaluate or assess the condition and/or functionality of the mobile phone 150 and/or its various components and systems.
- the visual analysis can include computer-implemented evaluation (e.g.
- the visual analysis can further include a computer-implemented inspection of a display screen on the mobile phone 150 to check for, e.g., cracks in the glass and/or other damage or defects in the LCD (e.g., defective pixels, etc.).
- the kiosk 100 can perform the visual analysis using one or more of the methods and/or systems described in detail in the commonly owned patents and patent applications identified herein and incorporated by reference in their entireties. Visual inspection of the mobile phone 150 by the device imaging system 130 is described in more detail below with respect to Figures 3A-1 1 .
- the inspection plate 144 returns the mobile phone 150 to its initial position near the door 106.
- the display screen 104 ( Figure 1A) can also provide an estimated price, or an estimated range of prices, that the kiosk 100 may offer the user for the mobile phone 150 based on the visual analysis, and/or based on user input (e.g., input regarding the type, condition, etc. of the mobile phone 150). If the user indicates (by, e.g., input via the touch screen) that he wishes to proceed with the transaction, the connector carrier 140 automatically rotates an appropriate one of the connectors 242 into position adjacent the inspection plate 144, and the door 106 is again opened.
- the user can then be instructed (via, e.g., the display screen 104) to withdraw the selected connector 242 (and its associated wire or cable) from the connector carrier 140, plug the connector 242 into the corresponding port (e.g., a USB port) on the mobile phone 150, and reposition the mobile phone 150 on the inspection plate 144 in the inspection area 108.
- the door 106 once again closes and the kiosk 100 (e.g. the kiosk CPU) performs an electrical inspection of the device via the connector 242 to further evaluate the condition of the phone as well as specific component and operating parameters such as the memory, carrier, etc.
- the electrical inspection can include a determination of phone manufacturer information (e.g., a vendor identification number or VID) and product information (e.g., a product identification number or PID).
- the kiosk 100 can perform the electrical analysis using one or more of the methods and/or systems described in detail in commonly owned U.S. Patent Application No. 14/506,449, filed October 3, 2014, and the other patents and patent applications identified herein and incorporated by reference in their entireties.
- a retraction mechanism 246 can automatically disconnect the connector 242 from the mobile phone 150.
- the retraction mechanism 246 can be substantially as described in commonly owned U.S. Patent Application No. 13/794,816, filed March 12, 2013, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- the order of the device evaluation operations described above can be modified such that the electrical inspection is conducted before the visual inspection.
- a user can begin the process by first indicating a phone type (via, e.g., input via the touch screen), and the connector carrier 140 then automatically rotates the appropriate one of the connectors 242 into position adjacent the inspection plate 144. Then the door 106 is opened, and the user can then be instructed (via, e.g. , the display screen 104) to connect the selected connector 242 to the mobile phone 150 and to reposition the mobile phone 150 on the inspection plate 144 in the inspection area 108. The door 106 can then close, and electrical inspection of the device can be performed (e.g., via the kiosk CPU). After the electrical inspection, the electrical connector 242 can be automatically disconnected from the mobile phone 150 via the retraction mechanism 246. The inspection plate 144 can then be advanced along the y-axis to the device imaging system 130 for visual inspection of the mobile phone 150.
- the user is presented with a phone purchase price via the display screen 104. If the user declines the offer price, the door 106 opens, and the user can reach in and retrieve the mobile phone 150. If the user accepts the price, the door 106 remains closed and the user may be prompted to place his or her identification (e.g., a driver's license) in the ID scanner 1 12 and provide a thumbprint via the fingerprint reader 1 14.
- his or her identification e.g., a driver's license
- the kiosk 100 can be configured to transmit an image of the driver's license to a remote computer screen, and an operator at the remote computer can visually compare the picture (and/or other information) on the driver's license to an image of the person standing in front of the kiosk 100 as viewed by one or more of the cameras 1 16a and 1 16b ( Figure 1A) to confirm that the person attempting to sell the mobile phone 150 is in fact the person identified by the driver's license.
- one or more of the cameras 1 16a and 1 16b can be movable to facilitate viewing of kiosk users, as well as other individuals in the proximity of the kiosk 100.
- the person's fingerprint can be checked against records of known fraud perpetrators. If either of these checks indicate that the person selling the phone presents a fraud risk, the transaction can be declined and the mobile phone 150 returned.
- the inspection plate 144 moves back toward the device imaging system 130. As shown in Figure 2D, as the inspection plate 144 slides under the gate 238 and the mobile phone 150 is stopped by the gate 238 and slides off of the inspection plate 144, onto the angled binning plate 236 and into the collection bin 134.
- the kiosk 100 can then provide payment of the purchase price to the user. In some embodiments, payment can be made in the form of cash dispensed from the cash outlet 1 18. In other embodiments, the user can receive remuneration for the mobile phone 150 in various other useful ways.
- the user can be paid via a redeemable cash voucher, a coupon, an e-certificate, a prepaid card, a wired or wireless monetary deposit to an electronic account (e.g., a bank account, credit account, loyalty account, online commerce account, mobile wallet etc.), Bitcoin, etc.
- an electronic account e.g., a bank account, credit account, loyalty account, online commerce account, mobile wallet etc.
- the kiosk 100 can be used to recycle or otherwise process consumer electronic devices such as mobile phones.
- the foregoing examples are described in the context of mobile phones, it should be understood that the kiosk 100 and various embodiments thereof can also be used in a similar manner for recycling virtually any consumer electronic device, such as MP3 players, tablet computers, PDAs, and other portable devices, as well as other relatively non-portable electronic devices such as desktop computers, printers, devices for implementing games, entertainment or other digital media on CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray, etc.
- the kiosk 100 in various embodiments thereof can similarly be used by others, such as a store clerk, to assist consumers in recycling, selling, exchanging, etc. their electronic devices.
- Figure 3A is an isometric view of the device imaging system 130
- Figures 3B and 3C are partially exploded isometric and front views, respectively, of the device imaging system 130.
- the device imaging system 130 includes the upper scanner assembly 202 operably disposed above the inspection plate 144, and the lower scanner assembly 204 operably disposed beneath the inspection plate 144.
- the upper scanner assembly 202 includes the upper guide rail 256, which is supported on opposite ends by a first upper mount 352a and a second upper mount 352b, which in turn can be fixed to the housing 232 ( Figure 2A).
- the upper guide rail 256 can be an elongate cylindrical member.
- the upper scanner 264 can be movably coupled to the upper guide rail 256 by a coupling 353 (having e.g. , a cylindrical linear bearing) that can translate smoothly back and forth along the guide rail 256.
- the upper guide rail 256 can have other shapes, such as rectangular cross sections.
- translation of the upper scanner 264 along the guide rail 256 can be effected via an upper belt 368 and an associated drive system.
- the scanner 264 can translate between a first position 357 at a first end of the guide rail 256 and a second position 359 at an opposite end of the guide rail 256.
- the scanner 264 As the scanner 264 translates between the first position 357 and the second position 359, the scanner covers the field of view 257, which as noted above represents the operative field of view of the device imaging system 130.
- the upper scanner 264 is supported at a first end by the upper guide rail 256 and at on opposite second end by a parallel rail or other guide surface (not shown) that is movably received in a groove of a support fitting 232.
- the lower scanner assembly 204 can be configured similarly to the upper scanner assembly 202.
- the lower scanner assembly 204 includes a lower guide rail 258 secured to a first lower mount 354a and a second lower mount 354b.
- the lower scanner 266 is movably coupled to the lower guide rail 258 by a coupling 355 and configured to translate along its length in the y-direction to cover the scanner field of view 257.
- the lower scanner 266 is supported at a first end by the lower guide rail 258 and at the other end by a support fitting 365 that movably engages a corresponding guide rail or surface (not shown) on the housing 232 ( Figure 2A).
- a lower belt 370 can be used to control movement of the lower scanner 266 along the length of the lower guide rail 258.
- the upper scanner assembly 202 and the lower scanner assembly 204 can comprise scanners and/or scanner components available from Avision-Labs Inc. located in Newark, CA 94560, for example components of the flatbed scanner model AVA6 available from Avision-Labs Inc. In other embodiments, other scanner assemblies and components can be used.
- the upper scanner assembly 202 faces downwardly toward the inspection plate 144 and is configured to capture one or more images (e.g., top and side images) of a mobile phone 150 or other electronic device placed on the inspection plate 144.
- the lower scanner assembly 204 faces upwardly toward the inspection plate 144 and is configured to capture one or more other images (e.g., bottom and side images) of the mobile phone 150 or other electronic device placed on the inspection plate 144.
- a first mirror assembly 360 is disposed over the inspection plate 144 along a first side or edge region, and a second mirror assembly 362 is disposed over the inspection plate 144 along a second side or edge region.
- the first mirror assembly 360 is disposed over a left edge 361 of the inspection plate 144
- the second mirror assembly 362 is disposed over an opposite right edge 363 of the inspection plate 144.
- the first mirror assembly 360 includes a first mirror 372 supported at each end by a mirror mounts 374a and 374b, which in turn can be fixed to the housing 232 ( Figure 2A).
- the first mirror 372 can be an elongate planar reflective surface (e.g., a rectangular surface) that is angled with respect to the inspection plate 144.
- the first mirror 372 is angled upwardly at an angle A1 of from about 1 15 degrees to about 155 degrees, or approximately 135 degrees with respect to the inspection plate 144 ( Figure 3C).
- the upper scanner assembly 202 can be oriented such that the upper scanner 264 is positioned over the first mirror 372, and during imaging the upper scanner 264 can obtain an image of the first mirror 372. Due to the angled orientation of the first mirror 372, the image obtained via the upper scanner 264 includes a side view of the mobile phone 150 or other electronic device placed on the inspection plate 144.
- the second mirror assembly 362 can be configured similarly to the first mirror assembly 360, and can accordingly include a second mirror 376 (e.g. , an elongate planar reflective surface such as a rectangular surface) secured via mirror mounts 378a and 378b.
- the second mirror 376 can be angled downwardly with respect to the inspection plate at an angle A2 of from about 25 degrees to about 65 degrees, or approximately 45 degrees.
- the lower scanner assembly 204 can be oriented such that the lower scanner 266 is movably positioned under the second mirror 376 and configured to obtain an image of the second mirror 376 during imaging.
- the image obtained by the lower scanner 266 includes a side view of the mobile phone 150 or other electronic device on the inspection late 144. More specifically, the first mirror 372 can provide a view of a first side (e.g., the left side) of an mobile phone 150 and the second mirror 376 can provide a view of a second, opposite side (e.g., the right side) of the mobile phone 150.
- a first side e.g., the left side
- the second mirror 376 can provide a view of a second, opposite side (e.g., the right side) of the mobile phone 150.
- the upper scanner 264 and the lower scanner 266 can be laterally offset from one another by a distance D along the x-axis, such that the upper scanner 264 does not image the second mirror 376 and the lower scanner 266 does not image the first mirror 372.
- the distance D can be between from about 0.25 inches to about 5 inches, or from about 0.5 inch to about 3 inches, or about 1 inch. This offset can advantageously minimize wasted imaging area, since views of the back sides of the first mirror 372 and the second mirror 376 would not be useful for evaluating a mobile phone or other electronic device.
- the mirrors 372 and 376 can have other positions and angular orientations.
- the first and second mirror assemblies 360 and 362 can be disposed in other positions over the inspection plate, for example over forward and rearward edges.
- the mirrors 372 and 376 can be curved, or can include other optical elements such as lenses, lenslet arrays, prisms, etc.
- the mirrors can be omitted altogether, while in still other embodiments there may be fewer or more mirrors (e.g., three, four, five or more mirrors).
- Figure 4A is an upper isometric view of the upper scanner assembly 202
- Figures 4B and 4C are partially exploded isometric and side views, respectively, of the upper scanner assembly 202
- Figure 4D is a lower isometric view of the upper scanner assembly 202, illustrating the lower surface of the scanner assembly 202.
- the lower scanner assembly 204 can be at least generally similar in structure and function to the upper scanner assembly 202 described herein. More specifically, both scanner assemblies 202 and 204 can have the same or similar housings, drive motors, belts, guide rails, light bar mounts, light bars, and/or diffusers, etc.
- the upper scanner 264 is movably coupled to the upper guide rail 256 by means of the coupling 353 and is configured to translate along its length in the y- direction.
- the coupling 353 can include one or more linear bearings 410 that coaxially receive the upper guide rail 256 to facilitate smooth movement thereon.
- the upper scanner 264 additionally carries a drive motor 480 (e.g., an electric rotary or stepper motor) coupled to a first drive gear 482, and a guide roller 481 .
- the upper belt 368 is fixed at each end and passes around the drive gear 482 and the guide roller 481 to provide an open belt drive system for moving the upper scanner 264 on the guide rail 256.
- the upper belt 368 can be a toothed belt and can be configured to engage with corresponding teeth on the drive gear 482 and the guide roller 481 .
- the drive motor 480 rotates the drive gear 482 in a first direction to translate the upper scanner 264 in a first direction along the upper guide rail 256, and rotates the drive gear 482 in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, to translate the upper scanner 264 in a second, opposite direction along the upper guide rail 256.
- a tensioner 483 coupled to the upper belt 368 allows the tension in the upper belt 368 to be adjusted for efficient operation of the open belt drive system.
- the drive motor 480 can be in electrical communication with the imaging control electronics 206 ( Figure 2B), which can control operation of the drive motor 480 to effect movement of the upper scanner 264 along the upper guide rail 256.
- the upper scanner 264 can be translated along the upper guide rail 256 using different actuation mechanisms, for example a closed belt drive, a pneumatic drive system, a lead screw linear actuator, or other suitable mechanism for translating the upper scanner 264.
- the upper scanner 264 can house an imaging sensor 485 to obtain images as the upper scanner 264 translates along the upper guide rail 256.
- the imaging sensor can include, for example, charge-coupled device (CCD) or complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) imaging sensors arranged in a linear array to capture images in successive lines extending parallel to the x-axis across the field of view 257 ( Figure 3B). These lines can then be combined after the upper scanner 264 has swept along the upper guide rail 256 to produce a single scanned image of the inspection plate 144 and any electronic device or other object placed thereon.
- CCD charge-coupled device
- CMOS complementary metal-oxide semiconductor
- a light bar mount 487 is fastened to a bottom surface of the upper scanner 264.
- the light bar mount 487 can be configured to support a plurality of light bars 484a-c on a lower surface thereof that are directed downwardly to project light toward the inspection plate 144. Electrical interconnections between the light bars 484a-c and control electronics within the upper scanner 264 can be integrated into the light bar mount 487.
- the light bars 484a-c can each be a linear array of a plurality of individual lighting elements, such as light- emitting diodes (LEDs).
- the light bars 484a-c can include an edge light configured to provide light along the length of the respective bar 484a-c with accompanying optics (e.g., facets) configured to redirect propagating light outwardly along an edge of the respective light bar 484a-c.
- accompanying optics e.g., facets
- a diffuser 486 is disposed beneath the light bars 484a-c and attached to the light bar mount 487.
- the diffuser 486 can be made of translucent plastic or other material and can include diffusing or scattering elements that diffuse light from the light bars 484a-c for a more uniform illumination of the inspection plate 144 and a mobile phone or other electronic device to be imaged.
- An elongate imaging slot 488 is formed in a portion of the diffuser 486 and is configured to align with the imaging sensor 485 within the upper scanner 264.
- a corresponding imaging slot 490 is formed in the light bar mount 487, and the light bars 484a-c are arranged on either side of the imaging slot 488.
- the diffuser 486 may be omitted, or one or more of the light bars 486a-c can have individual diffusers coupled thereto, thereby eliminating the need for a separate diffuser with an imaging slot formed therein.
- the light bars 484a-c are each elongate rectangular plates with a plurality of individual lighting elements disposed thereon.
- the light bars 484a-c are aligned parallel to the x-axis and parallel to the imaging sensor 485.
- the first light bar 484a and the second light bar 484b are disposed such that the principal direction of emitted light is along the z-axis.
- the third light bar 484c is angled such that the principle direction of emitted light is angled relative to the z-axis. As shown in Figure 4C, for example, the third light bar 484c can be angled with respect to the z-axis at an angle of between 25 degrees and 65 degrees, or approximately 45 degrees.
- the first and second light bars 484a and 484b can be angled towards or away from the imaging slot 488.
- the third light bar 484c can be oriented similarly to the first and second white light bars 484a and 484b, such that the principal direction of emitted light from the third light bar 484c is along the z-axis.
- light from the light bars 484a-c is directed downwardly toward the inspection plate 144 and the object of interest to be scanned (e.g. , a mobile phone).
- the light from each light bar 484a-c can extend the full width, or at least approximately the full width, of the inspection plate 144.
- the light bars 484a-c can be configured to produce various wavelength bands of emitted light.
- the first light bar 484a and the second light bar 484b can each be white light bars configured to emit broad spectrum white light
- the third light bar 484c can be configured to emit infrared or near-infrared light.
- the light bars 484a-c can be configured to provide different wavelength bands, for example red, green, blue, ultraviolet, or other wavelengths of light.
- images can be obtained using different combinations of the light bars 484a-c activated separately or in conjunction with each other.
- the variety of images obtained using different lighting configurations can enable visual inspection of a mobile phone 150 or other electronic device.
- the use of two different types of light sources can be advantageous as materials which look very similar under white light can appear different under infrared, and vice versa. Additionally, cracks, dents, scuffs, and other defects may be more visible under infrared light than white light, or vice versa.
- processes or blocks are presented in a given order, alternative implementations may perform routines in a different order, and some processes or blocks may be rearranged, deleted, moved, added, subdivided, combined, and/or modified to provide alternative or sub-combinations.
- Each of these processes or blocks may be implemented in a variety of different ways.
- processes or blocks are at times shown as being performed in series, these processes or blocks may instead be performed or implemented in parallel, or may be performed at different times.
- the steps depicted in the flow diagrams and/or represented by other tables, formulas, etc. can themselves include a sequence of operations that need not be described herein.
- routines and portions thereof can be stored in non-volatile memory that forms part of a processor contained in the kiosk 100 or otherwise associated with the kiosk 100 (e.g., a remote processor operably connected to the kiosk 100 via a wired/wireless communication link, etc.), or they can be stored in removable media, such as disks, or hardwired or preprogrammed in chips, such as EEPROM semiconductor chips.
- FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a routine 500 that can be performed by the kiosk 100 for purchasing devices, e.g., mobile phones and/or other electronic devices, from users in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.
- the routine can be executed by a processing device (e.g., a kiosk CPU) in accordance with computer- executable instructions stored on memory.
- the routine receives the device from the user (e.g., in the inspection area 108 of the kiosk 100 ( Figures 1 A- 1 C)).
- the routine performs an evaluation, e.g., a visual and/or electrical inspection of the device, to determine various information about the device that can affect the device value.
- the visual inspection can include visual inspection of the electronic device via the device imaging system 130 described in detail above with reference to Figures 2A-4D.
- Information determined obtained from the visual and/or electrical inspection can include, for example, the make, model, and/or sub-model of the device; the device features (e.g. , memory size, cell service carrier, etc.); device operability; device charge and/or rechargeability; physical condition; display function and condition; etc.
- the routine proceeds to block 506 to determine a price to offer the user for the device.
- the routine presents the offer to the user (via, e.g., a textual message on the display screen 104, an audio speaker, etc.).
- decision block 510 the routine determines if the user has accepted the offer price (by, e.g. , providing input via a touch screen, key pad, microphone, etc. operably coupled to the kiosk 100). If the user declines the offer, the routine proceeds to block 512 and returns the device to the user. Conversely, if the user accepts the offer, the routine proceeds to block 514 and provides remuneration to the user in the amount of the purchase price.
- Such remuneration or payment can be in the form of, e.g., cash, a voucher redeemable for cash, merchandise, services, etc. , electronic value (e.g., bitcoin, e-certificates, credit to electronic payment account, etc.), credit (e.g., a prepaid credit card, debit card, gift card, etc.), coupons, loyalty points, and/or other forms of value.
- electronic value e.g., bitcoin, e-certificates, credit to electronic payment account, etc.
- credit e.g., a prepaid credit card, debit card, gift card, etc.
- coupons loyalty points, and/or other forms of value.
- the routine retains the device (e.g., in the collection bin 134 of the kiosk 100) and the routine ends.
- Figure 6 is a flow diagram of a routine 600 for the visual inspection of an electronic device, such as a mobile phone 150 in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology with the device imaging system 130 described in detail above.
- the routine 600 can be performed with a single scanner or with multiple scanners.
- the routine can be executed by a processing device (e.g., the imaging control electronics 206 and/or a kiosk CPU) in accordance with computer-executable instructions stored on memory.
- the routine 600 can be performed as a portion of block 504 in the routine 500 of Figure 5.
- the routine receives the electronic device (e.g., mobile phone 150) on the inspection plate 144 ( Figure 2A).
- the inspection plate 144 is translated to position the electronic device with respect to the scanner field of view 257 ( Figure 3A).
- the inspection plate 144 is translated to position the mobile phone 150 between the upper scanner assembly 202 and the lower scanner assembly 204 as shown in Figures 3A-3C.
- the routine initiates the scanner assembly light source configuration.
- the scanner assembly 202 can include a plurality of light sources such as light bars 484a-c.
- the light bars 484a-c can include a first white light bar (e.g., the first light bar 484a), a second white light bar (e.g. , the second light bar 484b), and an infrared or near-infrared light bar (referred to herein as an infrared light bar) (e.g., the third light bar 484c.
- backlighting for one scanner assembly can be provided by the other scanner assembly.
- white light bars on the lower scanner assembly 204 can provide backlight for an image obtained via the upper scanner assembly 202 while the lights on the upper scanner are off.
- the lower scanner 266 can be positioned slightly in front of or slightly behind the upper scanner 264 (e.g. , approximately 1 inch in front or approximately 1 inch behind) so that the light from the lower scanner 266 does not blind the imaging sensor 485 in the upper scanner 264 (e.g., light emitted from the lower scanner 266 is not directly aligned with the imaging sensor 485 in the upper scanner 264) as the scanner assemblies move in unison relative to the electronic device.
- the backlit image obtained via the upper scanner 264 can produce a silhouette-like image, which can be useful for determining dimensions of the mobile phone 150 and other visual information for evaluation.
- the scanner can have various different initial light source configurations, including: a first white light bar alone, a second white light bar alone, both the first and second white light bar together, an infrared light bar alone, either or both white light bars together with the infrared light bar, an image with no light bars activated, and backlighting provided by the opposing scanner, etc.
- the scanner can take a separate image (e.g., by translating the scanner 264 across the scanner field of view 257 and capturing image data with the image sensor 458).
- these various different lighting configurations can provide different benefits and advantages for use in visual inspection and evaluation of an electronic device.
- the routine continues in block 608 by translating the scanner (e.g., the upper scanner 264) with respect to the electronic device to obtain images.
- an open belt drive utilizing a rotary motor can be used to effect translation of the scanner 264 along the upper guide rail 268 in the x-direction.
- the imaging sensor 485 housed within the scanner 264 can obtain one or more images of the inspection plate and the electronic device placed thereon.
- the routine analyzes the obtained image or images.
- the one or more images can be analyzed by further image processing techniques, including combining, subtracting, averaging, or other techniques.
- the analysis can identify, e.g. , the make and model of the device, as well as identify any defects (e.g. , cracks, scuffs, missing buttons, etc.), and/or identify fraudulent devices (e.g., devices with false display screens).
- FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of a routine 700 for visual inspection of an electronic device, such as a mobile phone 150 in accordance with another embodiment of the present technology.
- the routine 700 can be performed using a single scanner (e.g., upper scanner 264) or using two scanners (e.g., the upper and lower scanners 264 and 266).
- the routine 700 begins in block 702 by imaging the electronic device with a scanner (e.g., the upper scanner 264) using a first white light bar (e.g., the first light bar 484a).
- “imaging” with the scanner includes translating the scanner (e.g., the upper scanner 264) across a scanner field of view (e.g., the field of view 257) and capturing image data using the image sensor 458. After imaging with a particular light source configuration, the scanner can return to the initial position before proceeding with additional scans.
- the routine 700 images the electronic device with the scanner using a second white light bar (e.g. , the second white light bar 484b).
- the routine images the electronic device with the scanner using both the first and second white light bars simultaneously (e.g., with both the first light bar 484a and the second light bar 484b illuminated simultaneously).
- the device is imaged using an infrared light bar (e.g., the third light bar 484c).
- the electronic device is imaged with the scanner using backlighting.
- white light bars e.g., the first light bar 484a and/or the second white light bar 484b
- the lower scanner 266 can sweep slightly in front of or slightly behind the upper scanner 264 with the two scanners moving in unison so that the light from the lower scanner 266 does not blind the image sensor 458 in the upper scanner 264.
- the routine 700 continues in block 712 by obtaining an image the electronic device with the scanner (e.g., upper scanner 264) without any lights illuminating the electronic device.
- the routine 700 proceeds in block 714 by analyzing the obtained images.
- the routine 700 is but one routine for scanning an electronic device with the device imaging system 130.
- an electronic device can be scanned using only a single pass with white light, or for example by scanning only to obtain an upper view without obtaining a bottom view from a separate scan.
- the light sources can take other forms, for example using light bars or other light sources with varying wavelength bands, for example red, green, blue, ultraviolet, or other wavelengths of light.
- the use of different types of light sources can be advantageous, for example as materials which look very similar under white light can appear different under infrared, and vice versa. Additionally, cracks, dents, scuffs, and other defects may be more visible under infrared light than white light, or vice versa.
- Figures 8-1 1 are flow diagrams of routines for analyzing images obtained with the imaging system 130 (e.g., the images obtained via the routine 700) in accordance with embodiments of the present technology.
- the imaging control electronics 206 can perform these routines, while in other embodiments the routines can be performed by or in combination with other processing components, such as the kiosk CPU.
- Figure 8 is a flow diagram of a routine 800 for performing the image analysis of block 714.
- the routine 800 begins in block 802 by comparing the first white light bar image (e.g. , an image obtained with the scanner 264 using the first light bar 484a) and the second white light bar image (e.g., an image obtained with the scanner 264 using the second light bar 484b).
- first and second white light bars 484a and 484b are disposed on opposite sides of the imaging slots 488 and 490 ( Figure 4D)
- reflections on the mobile phone 150 from the first and second white light bars 484a and 484b will present differently.
- a particular region of the mobile phone 150 may provide a strong reflection when imaged using the first white light bar 484a, while an image obtained with the second white light bar 484b may have a much lower reflection in that region since the two light bars 484a and 484b are disposed at different positions with respect to the imaging slot 488.
- These reflections can also be rotation dependent, so that the orientation of the mobile phone 150 with respect to the scanner assembly can affect how the reflections appear on the scanned images.
- the first white light bar image and the second white light bar image can be compared to determine the brightest pixel or region of pixels between each of the images for each location on the mobile phone 150.
- the routine 800 continues in block 804 by synthesizing the first white light bar image and the second white light bar image.
- the first white light bar image and the second white light bar image can be averaged to reduce the intensity of any particularly bright reflections and to increase the intensity in any particularly dim or dark regions of the mobile phone image.
- the images can be averaged using standard image processing techniques known to those of skill in the art, for example using image stacking or other suitable technique.
- the images can be synthesized by selecting the highest intensity for each pixel or group of pixels of the two images for each location on the mobile phone, thereby creating a high-contrast image.
- the images can be synthesized by selecting the lowest intensity for each pixel or group of pixels of the two images for each location, thereby creating an image of the mobile phone in which the reflections are removed or at least reduced.
- mechanical damage such as cracks, dents, or scuffs in the mobile phone 150 can be detected best when the images are combined for maximum contrast because the heightened contrast increases visibility of light reflected from such aberrations.
- Other types of damage may be seen better with only one of the images, for example a small dent or scratch or crack may be better seen with one light bar, but light from the other light bar may fill in the crack or dent so that it is more difficult to detect.
- the reflections can be reduced by subtraction (e.g., by preserving lowest valued pixels between each scan).
- the first white light bar image and the second white light bar image can be averaged as noted above.
- the routine 800 continues in block 806 by analyzing the synthesized image, for example to identify the make and/or model of the device, to detect any cracks, dents, scuffs or other defects, and/or to detect broken screens or fraudulent devices with nonfunctional displays.
- the synthesized image can be compared to trained images in a database to compare dimensions, particular identifiable features (e.g., screen size, home button, etc.), reflection signatures, etc.
- Figure 9 is a flow diagram of another routine 900 for performing the image analysis of block 714 in accordance with another embodiment of the present technology.
- the routine 900 begins in block 902 by comparing the infrared image with images from a database of trained devices.
- a database associated with the imaging system 130 and/or accessible by the kiosk CPU can store a plurality of images of different devices obtained using an infrared light source.
- the infrared image of the mobile phone 150 can be compared with these database images to compare dimensions of the mobile phone 150 with known trained devices, as well as to compare various other signatures such as intensity in different regions of the device under infrared light.
- the routine 900 continues in block 904 by comparing a white light image with images from a database of trained devices.
- the database can store a plurality of images of different devices obtained using a white light source or multiple white light sources.
- the white light image of the mobile phone 150 can be compared to these database images to compare dimensions, intensity signatures in different regions of the mobile phone 150, and/or to identify other features (e.g., location of the home button, display size, volume buttons, etc.).
- the routine 900 continues in block 906 by identifying the device based on the comparisons.
- a nearest neighbor match can be found in the database based on the comparisons in blocks 402 and 404 between the captured infrared and white light images of the mobile phone 150 and the white light and infrared images of trained devices stored in the database.
- the use of two different types of light sources can be advantageous as materials which look very similar under white light can appear significantly different under infrared light, and vice versa.
- the routine 900 detects whether the mobile phone 150 is a fraud and/or has defects based on the comparisons of blocks 902 and 904.
- fake screens e.g., colored paper placed behind display glass to represent an activated LCD screen
- the routine 900 can determine whether the screen is unusually bright or dim under infrared light, indicating a fraudulent device.
- cracks, dents, scuffs, and other defects may be more visible under infrared light than white light, or vice versa. By comparing both sets of images to images of trained devices, such defects can be detected.
- FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of a routine 1000 for performing the image analysis of block 714 in accordance with another embodiment of the present technology.
- the routine 1000 begins in block 1002 by subtracting the no light image (e.g., an image of the subject electronic device obtained using the scanner with no light bars activated) from the white light image (e.g., an image of the device obtained using the scanner with one or both of the white light bars activated).
- the no light image may generally be dark except for any light coming from the screen or other light sources on the device (e.g., a notification indicator light).
- the resulting image provides a white light image in which the screen and notification lights are not illuminated.
- the initial white light image of the mobile phone 150 might include an activated screen.
- the image obtained with no lights will only show the activated screen.
- the resulting image shows the entire mobile phone 150 without the screen. This can approximate an image of the mobile phone 150 in which the screen is not activated. This subtraction can aid in identification and evaluation of the device, as it can provide for a more accurate comparison from one device to the next.
- the routine 1000 continues in block 1004 by analyzing the resulting image, for example, to identify the make and/or model of the device, to detect any cracks, dents, scuffs or other defects, and/or to detect broken screens or fraudulent devices with nonfunctional displays.
- the resulting image can be compared to trained images in a database to compare dimensions, particular identifiable features (e.g., screen size, home button, etc.), reflection signatures, etc.
- Figure 1 1 is a flow diagram of a routine 1 100 for performing the image analysis of block 714 in accordance with another embodiment of the present technology.
- the routine 1 100 begins in block 1 102 by identifying a screen refresh rate from a scanned image (e.g. , an image of the mobile phone 150 or other electronic device using the scanner 264 under any of the lighting conditions described herein).
- a scanned image e.g. , an image of the mobile phone 150 or other electronic device using the scanner 264 under any of the lighting conditions described herein.
- the pattern presented on the display screen in a scanned image can indicate the refresh rate or the frequency of the pulsed width modulation of the screen, depending on the type of display screen.
- the term "screen refresh rate" includes both actual screen refreshes and the frequency of the pulsed width modulation of the display light source or other scanned image artifacts that indicate the type of display screen technology. For example, scanned images of certain types of LCD screens may show lines on the screen due to the pulsed width modulation or screen refresh rate. Other types of LCD screens can use different technologies that do not present such artifacts in scanned images. Accordingly, these lines, or the absence of such lines, can be used to determine the screen refresh rate of the device.
- the routine 1 100 continues in block 1 104 by evaluating the screen refresh rate to identify the device and/or defect whether the device is a fraud.
- the refresh rate or other artifacts present on the scanned image can aid in identifying the make and model of the mobile phone 150, and can also indicate the presence of a fake display screen or an aftermarket display screen which employs different display technology than the original device.
- the detected screen refresh rate can be compared to a table of known screen refresh rates for different phones. Accordingly, comparing the refresh rate of the imaged device with that of trained devices can aid in identifying the device and/or detecting whether the device is fraudulent.
- routines described above for analyzing the images obtained using the device imaging system 130 can be combined in various ways. For example, while processes or blocks are presented in a given order, alternative implementations may perform routines having steps, or employ systems having blocks in a different order, and some processes or blocks may be deleted, moved, added, subdivided, combined, and/or modified to provide alternative or sub-combinations. As indicated above with respect to Figure 5, visual and/or electrical inspection of the device (block 504) can be followed by determining a price (block 506) and presenting an offer to the customer (block 508).
- the flow diagrams described herein are representative flow diagrams that depict routines and processes used in some embodiments. These processes and routines can be executed by a processing device, such as a processor or CPU associated with the kiosk 100 (as described below with reference to, e.g., Figure 12) and/or the device imaging system 130, an associated server computer, wireless device, personal computer, etc. in accordance with computer-executable instructions stored on a computer-readable medium.
- a processing device such as a processor or CPU associated with the kiosk 100 (as described below with reference to, e.g., Figure 12) and/or the device imaging system 130, an associated server computer, wireless device, personal computer, etc. in accordance with computer-executable instructions stored on a computer-readable medium.
- the routines disclosed herein can be performed by computing devices that are separate from a kiosk, for example a user's home computer, a mobile electronic device (e.g., smartphone or tablet), etc.
- routines described above can be stored in non-volatile memory, or in removable media, such as disks, or hardwired or preprogrammed in chips, such as EEPROM semiconductor chips.
- FIG 12 provides a schematic representation of an architecture of the kiosk 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.
- the kiosk 100 includes a suitable processor or central processing unit (“CPU") 1200 that controls operation of the kiosk 100 in accordance with computer- readable instructions stored on system memory 1206.
- the CPU 1200 can control performance of all or a portion of the various routines described herein with reference to, for example, Figures 5-1 1 .
- the CPU 1200 may be any logic processing unit, such as one or more CPUs, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), etc.
- the CPU 1200 may be a single processing unit or multiple processing units in a device or distributed across multiple devices.
- the CPU 1200 is connected to the memory 1206 and may be coupled to other hardware devices, for example, with the use of a bus (e.g., a PCI Express or Serial ATA bus).
- the CPU 1200 can include, by way of example, a standard personal computer ("PC") (e.g., a DELL OPTI PLEX 780 or 7010 PC) or other type of embedded computer running any suitable operating system, such as Linux, Windows, Android, iOS, MAC OS, or an embedded real-time operating system.
- the CPU 1200 can be a small form factor PC with integrated hard disk drive (“HDD”) or solid-state drive (“SSD”) and universal serial bus (“USB”) or other ports to communicate with the other components of the kiosk 100.
- HDD integrated hard disk drive
- SSD solid-state drive
- USB universal serial bus
- the CPU 1200 can include a microprocessor with a standalone motherboard that interfaces with a separate HDD.
- the memory 1206 can include read-only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM) or other storage devices, such as disk drives or SSDs, that store the executable applications, test software, databases and other software required to, for example, implement the various routines described herein (e.g., those described with reference to Figures 5-1 1 ), control kiosk components, process electronic device information and data (to, e.g., evaluate device make, model, condition, pricing, etc.), communicate and exchange data and information with remote computers and other devices, etc.
- ROM read-only memory
- RAM random access memory
- the CPU 1200 can provide information and instructions to kiosk users via the display screen 104 and/or an audio system (e.g., speakers 1 13).
- the CPU 1200 can also receive user inputs via, e.g., a touch screen 1208 associated with the display screen 104, a keypad with physical keys, and/or a microphone 1210. Additionally, the CPU 1200 can receive personal identification and/or biometric information associated with users via the ID reader 1 12, one or more of the external cameras 1 16, and/or the fingerprint reader 1 14.
- the CPU 1200 can also receive information (such as user identification and/or account information) via a card reader 1212 (e.g., a debit, credit, or loyalty card reader having, e.g., a suitable magnetic stripe reader, optical reader, etc.).
- a card reader 1212 e.g., a debit, credit, or loyalty card reader having, e.g., a suitable magnetic stripe reader, optical reader, etc.
- the CPU 1200 can also control operation of the label dispenser 1 10 and systems for providing remuneration to users, such as the cash dispenser 1 18 and/or a receipt or voucher printer and an associated dispenser 1220.
- the kiosk 100 additionally includes a number of electronic, optical and electromechanical devices for electrically, visually and/or physically analyzing electronic devices placed therein for recycling.
- Such systems can include the scanners 264 and 266 associated with the device imaging system 130 for visually inspecting electronic devices to, e.g., determine the external dimensions and condition, and one or more of the electrical connectors 242 (e.g., USB connectors) for, e.g., powering up electronic devices and performing electronic analyses.
- the connectors 242 can be movably and interchangeably carried by the connector carrier 140 ( Figures 2A-2D).
- the kiosk 100 further includes a plurality of mechanical components that are electronically actuated for carrying out the various functions of the kiosk 100 during operation.
- the mechanical components 1218 can include, for example, the inspection area access door 106 and one or more of the movable components (e.g. the inspection plate 144, the scanner assemblies 202 and 204 of the device imaging system 130 etc.) operably disposed within the inspection area 108 ( Figure 1 B).
- the kiosk 100 further includes power 1202, which can include battery power and/or facility power for operation of the various electrical components associated with kiosk operation.
- the kiosk 100 further includes a network connection 1222 (e.g., a wired connection, such as an Ethernet port, cable modem, FireWire cable, Lightning connector, USB port, etc.) suitable for communication with, e.g., all manner of remote processing devices via a communication link 1250, and a wireless transceiver 1224 (e.g.
- a network connection 1222 e.g., a wired connection, such as an Ethernet port, cable modem, FireWire cable, Lightning connector, USB port, etc.
- a wireless transceiver 1224 e.g.
- the wireless transceiver 1224 can facilitate wireless communication with handheld devices, such as a mobile device 1230 (e.g., a smartphone) either in the proximity of the kiosk 100 or remote therefrom.
- a mobile device 1230 e.g., a smartphone
- the mobile device 1230 can include one or more features, applications and/or other elements commonly found in smartphones and other known mobile devices.
- the mobile device 1230 can include a CPU and/or a graphics processing unit (“GPU") 1234 for executing computer readable instructions stored on memory 1236.
- the mobile device 1230 can include an internal power source or battery 1232, a dock connector 1246, a USB port 1248, a camera 1240, and/or well-known input devices, including, for example, a touch screen 1242, a keypad, etc.
- the mobile device 1230 can also include a speaker 1244 for two-way communication and audio playback.
- the mobile device 1230 can include a mobile operating system (OS) 1231 and/or a device wireless transceiver that may include one or more antennas 1238 for wirelessly communicating with, for example, other mobile devices, websites, and the kiosk 100.
- OS mobile operating system
- a device wireless transceiver that may include one or more antennas 1238 for wirelessly communicating with, for example, other mobile devices, websites, and the kiosk 100.
- Such communication can be performed via, e.g., the communication link 1250 (which can include the Internet, public and private intranet, a local or extended Wi-Fi network, cell towers, the plain old telephone system (POTS), etc.), direct wireless communication, etc.
- POTS plain old telephone system
- the kiosk 100 and/or the mobile device 1230 can include other features that may be different from those described above. In still further embodiments, the kiosk 100 and/or the mobile device 1230 can include more or fewer features similar to those described above.
- FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a suitable network environment for implementing various aspects of an electronic device recycling system 1300 configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology.
- a plurality of the kiosks 100 can exchange information with one or more remote computers (e.g., one or more server computers 1304) via the communication link 1250.
- the communication link 1250 can include a publically available network (e.g. , the Internet with a web interface), a private communication link, such as an intranet or other network may also be used.
- the individual kiosk 100 can be connected to a host computer (not shown) that facilitates the exchange of information between the kiosks 100 and remote computers, other kiosks, mobile devices, etc.
- the server computer 1304 can perform many or all of the functions for receiving, routing and storing electronic messages, such as webpages, audio signals and electronic images necessary to implement the various electronic transactions described herein.
- the server computer 1304 can retrieve and exchange web pages and other content with an associated database or databases 1306.
- the database 1306 can include information related to mobile phones and/or other consumer electronic devices. Such information can include, for example, make, model, serial number, IMEI, MEID, carrier plan information, pricing information, owner information, etc. , as well as dimensional information (size, shape, location of displays, ports, etc.) and other visual information (e.g., logo shapes, sizes, locations, etc.) associated with known devices, such as particular device models, sub-models, etc.
- the server computer 1304 can also include a server engine 1308, a web page management component 1310, a content management component 1312, and a database management component 1314.
- the server engine 1308 can perform the basic processing and operating system level tasks associated with the various technologies described herein.
- the web page management component 1310 can handle creation and/or display and/or routing of web or other display pages.
- the content management component 1312 can handle many of the functions associated with the routines described herein.
- the database management component 1314 can perform various storage, retrieval and query tasks associated with the database 1306, and can store various information and data such as animation, graphics, visual and audio signals, etc.
- the kiosk 100 e.g., the processor 1200
- the server computer 1304 or both.
- the kiosks 100 can also be operably connected to a plurality of other remote devices and systems via the communication link 1250.
- the kiosks 100 can be operably connected to a plurality of user devices 1318 (e.g., personal computers, laptops, handheld devices, etc.) having associated browsers 1320.
- the kiosks 100 can each include wireless communication facilities for exchanging digital information with mobile devices, such as the mobile device 1230.
- the kiosks 100 and/or the server computer 1304 are also operably connectable to a series of remote computers for obtaining data and/or exchanging information with necessary service providers, financial institutions, device manufactures, authorities, government agencies, etc.
- the kiosks 100 and the server computer 1304 can be operably connected to one or more cell carriers 1322, one or more device manufacturers 1324 (e.g. , mobile phone manufacturers), one or more electronic payment or financial institutions 1328, one or more databases (e.g., the GSMA International Mobile Equipment Identity Database, etc.), and one or more computers and/or other remotely located or shared resources associated with cloud computing 1326.
- the financial institutions 1328 can include all manner of entity associated with conducting financial transactions, including banks, credit/debit card facilities, online commerce facilities, online payment systems, virtual cash systems, money transfer systems, etc.
- the kiosks 100 and the server computer 1304 can also be operably connected to a resale marketplace 1330 and a kiosk operator 1332.
- the resale marketplace 1330 represents a system of remote computers and/or services providers associated with the reselling of consumer electronic devices through both electronic and brick-and-mortar channels. Such entities and facilities can be associated with, for example, online auctions for reselling used electronic devices as well as for establishing market prices for such devices.
- the kiosk operator 1332 can be a central computer or system of computers for controlling all manner of operation of the network of kiosks 100.
- Such operations can include, for example, remote monitoring and facilitating of kiosk maintenance (e.g., remote testing of kiosk functionality, downloading operational software and updates, etc.), servicing (e.g., periodic replenishing of cash and other consumables), performance, etc.
- the kiosk operator 1332 can further include one or more display screens operably connected to cameras located at each of the kiosks 100 (e.g. , one or more of the cameras 1 16 described above with reference to Figures 1A-1 C). This remote viewing capability enables operator personnel to verify user identification and/or make other visual observations at the kiosks 100 in real-time during transactions, as described above with reference to Figures 1A-1 C.
- routines and other functions and methods described above can be performed by various processing devices, such as the kiosk processor 1200 ( Figure 12), the server computer 1304 ( Figure 13), or both.
- the processes can be implemented as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), by a digital signal processing (DSP) integrated circuit, through conventional programmed logic arrays or circuit elements. While many of the embodiments are shown and described as being implemented in hardware (e.g., one or more integrated circuits designed specifically for a task), such embodiments could equally be implemented in software and be performed by one or more processors.
- Such software can be stored on any suitable computer-readable medium, such as microcode stored in a semiconductor chip, on a computer-readable disk, or downloaded from a server and stored locally at a client.
- the kiosks 100, mobile devices 1230, server computers 1304, user computers and/or other user devices 1318, etc. may include one or more central processing units or other logic-processing circuitry, memory, input devices (e.g., keyboards and pointing devices), output devices (e.g., display devices and printers), and storage devices (e.g., magnetic, solid state, fixed and floppy disk drives, optical disk drives, etc.).
- Such computer devices may include other program modules such as an operating system, one or more application programs (e.g., word processing or spread sheet applications), and the like.
- the user computers may include wireless computers, such as mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), palm-top computers, etc. , which communicate with the Internet via a wireless link.
- the computers may be general-purpose devices that can be programmed to run various types of applications, or they may be single-purpose devices optimized or limited to a particular function or class of functions. Aspects of the invention may be practiced in a variety of other computing environments.
- a private network such as an intranet may likewise be used herein.
- the network may have a client-server architecture, in which a computer is dedicated to serving other client computers, or it may have other architectures such as peer-to-peer, in which one or more computers serve simultaneously as servers and clients.
- a database or databases, coupled to the server computer(s), stores much of the web pages and content exchanged between the user computers.
- the server computer(s), including the database(s), may employ security measures to inhibit malicious attacks on the system and preserve the integrity of the messages and data stored therein (e.g., firewall systems, message encryption and/or authentication (e.g., using transport layer security (TLS) or secure socket layers (SSL)), password protection schemes, encryption of stored data (e.g., using trusted computing hardware), and the like).
- security measures e.g., firewall systems, message encryption and/or authentication (e.g., using transport layer security (TLS) or secure socket layers (SSL)), password protection schemes, encryption of stored data (e.g., using trusted computing hardware), and the like).
- a display description may be in HTML, XML or WAP format, email format or any other format suitable for displaying information (including character/code-based formats, algorithm-based formats (e.g., vector generated), and bitmapped formats).
- various communication channels such as local area networks, wide area networks, or point-to-point dial-up connections, may be used instead of the Internet.
- the system may be conducted within a single computer environment, rather than a client/server environment.
- the user computers may comprise any combination of hardware or software that interacts with the server computer, such as television-based systems and various other consumer products through which commercial or noncommercial transactions can be conducted.
- the various aspects of the invention described herein can be implemented in or for any e-mail environment.
- aspects of the invention are described in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as routines executed by a general- purpose data processing device, e.g., a server computer, wireless device or personal computer.
- a general- purpose data processing device e.g., a server computer, wireless device or personal computer.
- PDAs personal digital assistants
- wearable computers all manner of cellular or mobile phones (including Voice over IP (VoIP) phones), dumb terminals, media players, gaming devices, multi-processor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, set-top boxes, network PCs, mini-computers, mainframe computers, and the like.
- PDAs personal digital assistants
- VoIP Voice over IP
- dumb terminals media players, gaming devices, multi-processor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, set-top boxes, network PCs, mini-computers, mainframe computers, and the like.
- Input devices may include a touchpad, keyboard and/or a pointing device such as a mouse. Other input devices are possible such as a microphone, joystick, pen, game pad, scanner, digital camera, video camera, and the like.
- the data storage devices may include any type of computer-readable media that can store data accessible by a computer, such as magnetic hard and floppy disk drives, optical disk drives, magnetic cassettes, tape drives, flash memory cards, digital video disks (DVDs), Bernoulli cartridges, RAMs, ROMs, smart cards, etc. Indeed, any medium for storing or transmitting computer-readable instructions and data may be employed, including a connection port to a network such as a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN) or the Internet.
- LAN local area network
- WAN wide area network
- the Internet the Internet
- aspects of the invention can be embodied in a special purpose computer or data processor that is specifically programmed, configured, or constructed to perform one or more of the computer-executable instructions explained in detail herein. While aspects of the invention, such as certain functions, are described as being performed exclusively on a single device, the invention can also be practiced in distributed environments where functions or modules are shared among disparate processing devices, which are linked through a communications network, such as a Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), or the Internet. In a distributed computing environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.
- LAN Local Area Network
- WAN Wide Area Network
- program modules may be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.
- aspects of the invention may be stored or distributed on tangible computer- readable media, including magnetically or optically readable computer discs, hard-wired or preprogrammed chips (e.g. , EEPROM semiconductor chips), nanotechnology memory, biological memory, or other data storage media.
- the data storage devices may include any type of computer-readable media that can store data accessible by a computer, such as magnetic hard and floppy disk drives, optical disk drives, magnetic cassettes, tape drives, flash memory cards, DVDs, Bernoulli cartridges, RAM, ROMs, smart cards, etc. Indeed, any medium for storing or transmitting computer-readable instructions and data may be employed, including a connection port to a network such as a LAN, WAN, or the Internet.
- computer implemented instructions, data structures, screen displays, and other data under aspects of the invention may be distributed over the Internet or over other networks (including wireless networks), on a propagated signal on a propagation medium (e.g., an electromagnetic wave(s), a sound wave, etc.) over a period of time, or they may be provided on any analog or digital network (packet switched, circuit switched, or other scheme).
- a propagation medium e.g., an electromagnetic wave(s), a sound wave, etc.
- packet switched, circuit switched, or other scheme packet switched, circuit switched, or other scheme.
- the terms “memory” and "computer-readable storage medium” include any combination of temporary, persistent, and/or permanent storage, e.g., ROM, writable memory such as RAM, writable non- volatile memory such as flash memory, hard drives, solid state drives, removable media, and so forth, but do not include a propagating signal per se.
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Abstract
La présente invention concerne divers modes de réalisation de systèmes et de procédés destinés au recyclage de téléphones mobiles et d'autres dispositifs électroniques grand public. Dans divers modes de réalisation, les systèmes et les procédés décrits comprennent des systèmes d'imagerie permettant d'inspecter, d'évaluer, d'identifier, et/ou d'obtenir d'autres informations concernant les dispositifs. Lesdits systèmes d'imagerie peuvent comprendre un ou plusieurs scanner(s) à plat et peuvent être utilisés au moyen d'une borne actionnée par un utilisateur pour déterminer un prix qu'il convient de proposer à un utilisateur pour un téléphone mobile ou un autre dispositif électronique en se basant sur les informations.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US201562169072P | 2015-06-01 | 2015-06-01 | |
| US62/169,072 | 2015-06-01 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| WO2016196175A1 true WO2016196175A1 (fr) | 2016-12-08 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/US2016/034278 Ceased WO2016196175A1 (fr) | 2015-06-01 | 2016-05-26 | Procédés et systèmes d'évaluation visuelle de dispositifs électroniques |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CN (2) | CN206421439U (fr) |
| WO (1) | WO2016196175A1 (fr) |
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| CN107341906A (zh) * | 2017-07-25 | 2017-11-10 | 深圳友宝科斯科技有限公司 | 手机回收装置及手机回收方法 |
| CN109754520A (zh) * | 2018-12-29 | 2019-05-14 | 国网安徽省电力有限公司培训中心 | 自动纸箱回收装置及分布式纸箱回收系统 |
| WO2020167846A1 (fr) * | 2019-02-12 | 2020-08-20 | Ecoatm, Llc | Kiosque pour évaluer et acheter des dispositifs électroniques usagés |
| TWI721143B (zh) * | 2017-03-17 | 2021-03-11 | 鴻海精密工業股份有限公司 | 手機回收設備及方法 |
| US20220068076A1 (en) * | 2020-08-25 | 2022-03-03 | Ecoatm, Llc | Kiosk for evaluating and purchasing used electronic devices |
| US20220136977A1 (en) * | 2019-03-29 | 2022-05-05 | Mintit Co., Ltd. | Electronic Device Valuation System |
| CN116075872A (zh) * | 2020-08-28 | 2023-05-05 | 明蒂股份有限公司 | 手机购买装置 |
| EP4307045A3 (fr) * | 2017-07-14 | 2024-01-24 | A La Carte Media, Inc. | Kiosques informatisés à faible coût pour la collecte à distance de dispositifs électroniques pour une valeur |
| US12271929B2 (en) | 2020-08-17 | 2025-04-08 | Ecoatm Llc | Evaluating an electronic device using a wireless charger |
| US12322259B2 (en) | 2018-12-19 | 2025-06-03 | Ecoatm, Llc | Systems and methods for vending and/or purchasing mobile phones and other electronic devices |
| US12340425B2 (en) | 2008-10-02 | 2025-06-24 | Ecoatm, Llc | Kiosk for recycling electronic devices |
| US12380420B2 (en) | 2019-12-18 | 2025-08-05 | Ecoatm, Llc | Systems and methods for vending and/or purchasing mobile phones and other electronic devices |
| US12462635B2 (en) | 2021-07-09 | 2025-11-04 | Ecoatm, Llc | Identifying electronic devices using temporally changing information |
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| CN106846622A (zh) * | 2017-02-28 | 2017-06-13 | 深圳市友机机科技有限公司 | 手机自动回收方法与手机自动回收终端 |
| CN109117958A (zh) * | 2017-06-26 | 2019-01-01 | 深圳回收宝科技有限公司 | 便携式电子设备估价方法、回收方法、终端、云端及系统 |
| CN108283972B (zh) * | 2018-04-12 | 2020-01-17 | 福州及时雨云信息科技有限公司 | 一种电子设备回收箱 |
| CN109064341A (zh) * | 2018-07-06 | 2018-12-21 | 阿里巴巴集团控股有限公司 | 一种自助终端、自助装置及电子设备 |
| KR200495129Y1 (ko) * | 2020-08-18 | 2022-03-11 | 민팃(주) | 휴대폰 매입 장치 |
| CN116257757B (zh) * | 2023-01-05 | 2024-12-13 | 成都天合一成科技服务有限公司 | 基于人工智能的移动通讯终端的精准定位方法及系统 |
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| US12340425B2 (en) | 2008-10-02 | 2025-06-24 | Ecoatm, Llc | Kiosk for recycling electronic devices |
| TWI721143B (zh) * | 2017-03-17 | 2021-03-11 | 鴻海精密工業股份有限公司 | 手機回收設備及方法 |
| EP4307045A3 (fr) * | 2017-07-14 | 2024-01-24 | A La Carte Media, Inc. | Kiosques informatisés à faible coût pour la collecte à distance de dispositifs électroniques pour une valeur |
| CN107341906B (zh) * | 2017-07-25 | 2023-05-26 | 深圳友宝科斯科技有限公司 | 手机回收装置及手机回收方法 |
| CN107341906A (zh) * | 2017-07-25 | 2017-11-10 | 深圳友宝科斯科技有限公司 | 手机回收装置及手机回收方法 |
| US12322259B2 (en) | 2018-12-19 | 2025-06-03 | Ecoatm, Llc | Systems and methods for vending and/or purchasing mobile phones and other electronic devices |
| CN109754520A (zh) * | 2018-12-29 | 2019-05-14 | 国网安徽省电力有限公司培训中心 | 自动纸箱回收装置及分布式纸箱回收系统 |
| CN114566003A (zh) * | 2019-02-12 | 2022-05-31 | 埃科亚特姆公司 | 用于评估和购买二手电子设备的自助服务终端 |
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| US12380420B2 (en) | 2019-12-18 | 2025-08-05 | Ecoatm, Llc | Systems and methods for vending and/or purchasing mobile phones and other electronic devices |
| US12271929B2 (en) | 2020-08-17 | 2025-04-08 | Ecoatm Llc | Evaluating an electronic device using a wireless charger |
| US20220068076A1 (en) * | 2020-08-25 | 2022-03-03 | Ecoatm, Llc | Kiosk for evaluating and purchasing used electronic devices |
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Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CN106228249A (zh) | 2016-12-14 |
| CN206421439U (zh) | 2017-08-18 |
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