Object/shape recognition technology: an assessment of the feasibility of implementation at Defense Logistics Agency Disposition Services

Abstract

The Defense Logistics Agency Disposition Services (DLA DS) is facing substantial potential budget cuts, which will require the organization to increase efficiency and cut costs. DLA DS is assessing the feasibility to improve the item disposal process with an object/shape recognition technology as a means to increase efficiency. The technology may potentially reduce the time required to identify items in order to route for appropriate disposal. With the advancement of new technology and the availability of databases, it may now be possible to identify an object using recognition technology. Given the potential of these technologies to reduce identification time and errors, research to assess the viability of existing prototypes is justified. This applied project identified and assessed object/shape recognition technologies as a means to support efficiency while taking into account wider government policy and objectives in relation to technology adoption. This project evaluated the feasibility of implementation of these technologies that includes an analysis of DLA DS’s items disposal process, a technology readiness assessment of the technology, and a cost-benefit analysis to assess the financial payoffs of an investment in the technology. The objective was to understand the items disposal process and assess object/shape recognition technology to address the problem that unlabeled items poses to DLA DS at Camp Pendleton, CA.