Computer vision for the LPG industry
The challenge
In the LPG industry, cylinder data like tare weights and inspection dates are essential for accurate filling and maintenance. Each cylinder carries printed or embossed tare weights that must be read and forwarded to filling station PLCs — a task traditionally done by hand. Manual reading is slow, error-prone, and difficult to scale.
The solution
Eplusplus has developed a computer vision system for MAKEEN Energy that automatically reads the stamped numbers on LPG cylinders. Using embedded camera hardware and custom image-processing algorithms, the system captures and decodes tare weights in real time — even under challenging conditions such as poor lighting, surface wear, and varying fonts.
The decoding process can be monitored in real-time from a web browser, where decoding statistics can also be observed.
Key aspects
- Custom image capture hardware designed for industrial environments
- Real-time number recognition from stamped or embossed metal surfaces
- Robust performance across varying lighting and cylinder conditions
- Integration with existing cylinder processing workflows and equipment (PLCs)