System and method for non-contact hardness measurement of agricultural products during transport

Abstract

The present invention relates to a technique for associating changes in surface curvature with radiation characteristics and measuring hardness by using pneumatic pressure in a non-contact manner on the surface of agricultural products such as fruits. A hardness measurement system according to one embodiment may comprise: a conveyor control unit, which controls a conveyor to transport an object in one direction; a non-contact pressing unit, which presses, in a non-contact manner, the object being transported in the one direction so as to induce a change in curvature on the surface of the object; a curvature change measurement unit for measuring physical quantity changes or image changes due to the changed curvature; and a hardness calculation unit for calculating the hardness of the object on the basis of the measured changes in physical quantity or image.

Description

System and method for measuring hardness of agricultural products in a non-contact manner during movement

[0001] The present invention relates to a technology for measuring hardness by associating changes in surface curvature using pneumatic pressure with radiation characteristics on the surface of agricultural products such as fruits using a non-contact method.

[0002] Conventional fruit hardness measurement techniques use the Magnes-Taylor method. This method involves inserting a cylindrical plunger into the fruit and measuring the pressure applied to determine the firmness of the fruit.

[0003] However, this method has the disadvantage of destroying the fruit. The process of inserting the fruit can cause injury or damage, which can affect the appearance of the fruit and the safety of the food purchased by consumers. Furthermore, this method is time-consuming and accurate measurements can be difficult.

[0004] To address these issues, non-destructive fruit hardness measurement technologies have recently been developed. These technologies measure hardness through the fruit's exterior, ensuring accurate results without damaging the fruit. These methods primarily utilize technologies such as ultrasound or laser to scan the fruit's surface and calculate the resulting hardness.

[0005] These non-destructive technologies help us more accurately assess the quality of agricultural products, helping consumers choose safer, fresher products.

[0006] Furthermore, this technology is also useful for fruit producers and distributors, helping them maintain and manage quality throughout the production and distribution process. Therefore, non-destructive fruit firmness measurement technology is expected to contribute to the development of the agricultural industry and enhanced consumer satisfaction.

[0007] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a technology for measuring hardness by correlating the change in curvature of a fruit surface that appears using pneumatic pressure with radiation characteristics in a non-contact, non-destructive manner.

[0008] A hardness measurement system according to one embodiment may include a conveyor control unit that controls a conveyor to move an object in one direction, a non-contact pressurizing unit that applies pressure to the object moving in the one direction in a non-contact manner to cause a change in curvature on the surface of the object, a curvature change measuring unit that measures a change in a physical quantity or an image due to the caused change in curvature, and a hardness calculating unit that calculates hardness for the object based on the measured change in the physical quantity or the change in the image.

[0009] A hardness measurement system according to one embodiment may include an upper tray on which the non-contact pressurizing unit and the curvature change measuring unit are arranged, a distance measuring unit that measures a distance between the object and the upper tray, and a control unit that controls the distance between the upper tray and the object based on the measured distance.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the non-contact pressurizing unit can pressurize the surface of the object in a non-contact manner by changing the air pressure on the surface of the object.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the non-contact pressurizing unit can pressurize the surface of the object in a non-contact manner by changing the temperature of the surface.

[0012] The curvature change measuring unit according to one embodiment may include a reflected heat measuring unit that measures the curvature change by measuring reflected heat transmitted to the surface of the object where the curvature change occurs.

[0013] The curvature change measuring unit according to one embodiment can measure the curvature change based on an image change of an object based on machine vision.

[0014] The curvature change measuring unit according to one embodiment may include a sound wave measuring unit that measures the curvature change by measuring a reflected wave of sound transmitted to the surface of the object where the curvature change occurs.

[0015] An operating method of a hardness measurement system according to an embodiment may include a step of moving an object in one direction, a step of measuring a distance to the object, a step of applying pressure to the object moving in the one direction in a non-contact manner with an intensity reflecting the measured distance to cause a change in curvature in the surface of the object, a step of measuring a change in a physical quantity or an image due to the change in curvature caused by the change, and a step of calculating hardness for the object based on the measured change in the physical quantity or the change in the image.

[0016] In one embodiment, the step of applying pressure in a non-contact manner to an object moving in one direction with an intensity reflecting the measured distance to cause a change in curvature on the surface of the object may include a step of applying pressure in a non-contact manner by changing the air pressure on the surface of the object.

[0017] In one embodiment, the step of applying pressure in a non-contact manner to an object moving in one direction with an intensity reflecting the measured distance to cause a change in curvature on the surface of the object may include a step of applying pressure in a non-contact manner by changing the temperature of the surface of the object.

[0018] The step of measuring a change in a physical quantity or a change in an image due to the change in curvature that has occurred according to one embodiment may include a step of measuring the change in curvature by measuring reflected heat due to heat transmitted to the surface of the object where the change in curvature has occurred.

[0019] The step of measuring a change in a physical quantity or a change in an image due to the above-mentioned change in curvature according to an embodiment may include a step of measuring the change in curvature based on a change in an image of an object based on machine vision.

[0020] The step of measuring a change in a physical quantity or a change in an image due to the change in curvature that has occurred according to one embodiment may include a step of measuring the change in curvature by measuring a reflected wave of sound transmitted to the surface of the object where the change in curvature has occurred.

[0021] According to one embodiment, a technology for measuring hardness by correlating changes in the curvature of a fruit surface that appear using pneumatic pressure with radiation characteristics can be provided in a non-contact, non-destructive manner.

[0022] In one embodiment, the height of the upper tray can be adjusted to accommodate fruits of different sizes using a distance detection sensor.

[0023] According to one embodiment, hardness, an important quality factor, can be precisely measured while preserving the commercial value of agricultural products such as fruits using a non-contact and non-destructive method.

[0024] In one embodiment, hardness can be measured quickly and accurately, replacing inefficient manpower.

[0025] According to one embodiment, it can be easily configured as an additional installation on an existing fruit transport conveyor belt (roller system).

[0026] Figure 1 is a drawing illustrating a hardness measurement system according to one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 2 is a drawing illustrating a hardness measurement system according to another embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a specific embodiment of implementing a hardness measurement system according to one embodiment.

[0029] Fig. 4 is a drawing specifically explaining a curvature change measurement unit according to one embodiment.

[0030] Figure 5 is a drawing illustrating an embodiment of calculating hardness by measuring a change in a physical quantity with respect to a change in the curvature of an object.

[0031] FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating an embodiment of calculating hardness by measuring changes in an image for changes in the curvature of an object.

[0032] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation method of a hardness measurement system according to an embodiment.

[0033] Specific structural or functional descriptions of embodiments according to the concept of the present invention disclosed in this specification are merely illustrative for the purpose of explaining embodiments according to the concept of the present invention, and embodiments according to the concept of the present invention may be implemented in various forms and are not limited to the embodiments described in this specification.

[0034] Embodiments according to the concept of the present invention may have various modifications and take various forms, and thus, embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in this specification. However, this is not intended to limit embodiments according to the concept of the present invention to specific disclosed forms, but rather includes modifications, equivalents, or alternatives that fall within the spirit and technical scope of the present invention.

[0035] While terms such as "first" or "second" may be used to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are intended solely to distinguish one component from another. For example, a first component may be referred to as a "second component," and similarly, a second component may also be referred to as a "first component," without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0036] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components in between. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between. Expressions that describe relationships between components, such as "between," "immediately between," or "directly adjacent to," should be interpreted similarly.

[0037] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to limit the present invention. The singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this specification, it should be understood that the terms "comprises" or "has" are intended to specify the presence of a described feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof, but do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0038] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0039]

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, the scope of the patent application is not limited or restricted by these embodiments. The same reference numerals in each drawing represent the same components.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a hardness measurement system (100) according to one embodiment.

[0042] A hardness measurement system (100) according to one embodiment can precisely measure hardness, an important quality factor, while preserving the commercial value of agricultural products such as fruits, using a non-contact and non-destructive method. In particular, a technology can be provided for measuring hardness by correlating changes in the curvature of a fruit surface, which occur using pneumatic pressure, with radiation characteristics in a non-contact and non-destructive manner.

[0043] To this end, a hardness measurement system (100) according to one embodiment may include a conveyor control unit (110), a non-contact pressurizing unit (120), a curvature change measurement unit (130), a hardness calculation unit (140), and a control unit (150).

[0044] The conveyor control unit (110) can control the conveyor to move an object in one direction.

[0045] The conveyor control unit (110) can move objects in a desired direction by controlling the operation and speed of the conveyor. It primarily rotates the conveyor belt or controls the transport device via a motor or drive system to transport objects, thereby efficiently moving objects and performing tasks on a production line or work site.

[0046] The conveyor control unit (110) can also control functions such as adjusting or stopping the speed of the conveyor as needed.

[0047] A non-contact pressurizing unit (120) can apply pressure to an object moving in one direction in a non-contact manner, thereby causing a change in curvature on the surface of the object.

[0048] A non-contact pressurizing unit (120) is used with a conveyor that transports an object in a certain direction. As the object moves along the conveyor, the non-contact pressurizing unit (120) can apply pressure to the surface of the object. In this case, the pressure can be applied in a non-contact manner without directly contacting the surface of the object.

[0049] During the process of applying pressure by the non-contact pressurizing unit (120), pressure may be applied to the surface of the object, temporarily causing deformation of the surface. This deformation causes a change in curvature of the surface of the object, which is closely related to the hardness of the object.

[0050] These changes in curvature can be used to measure or estimate hardness in subsequent steps. For example, an algorithm or model that estimates an object's hardness based on the degree of change in curvature can be applied to determine the object's hardness.

[0051] The non-contact pressure unit (120) is an important device capable of non-destructively measuring the hardness of an object, obtaining hardness information without damaging the object's surface. This can be usefully utilized for quality assessment or inspection of sensitive products such as fruits or agricultural products.

[0052] For example, the non-contact pressurizing unit (120) can pressurize the surface of an object in a non-contact manner by changing the air pressure on the surface of the object. This method applies pressure to the surface of the object by adjusting the air pressure around the object. For example, the air pressure around the object can be adjusted by sucking or expelling the air, thereby applying pressure to the surface of the object. This has the advantage of allowing the pressure to be adjusted without directly contacting the surface of the object, thereby allowing the hardness to be measured without damaging the object.

[0053] Additionally, as another example, the non-contact pressurizing unit (120) can pressurize the surface of an object in a non-contact manner by changing the temperature of the surface.

[0054] The non-contact pressurization unit (120) can apply pressure in a non-contact manner by changing the temperature of the surface of an object. This method applies pressure to the surface of an object through heat transfer by adjusting the temperature around the object. For example, heat can be applied to the surface of the object to warm or cool the surface of the object. This also has the advantage of being able to adjust the pressure without directly contacting the surface of the object.

[0055] The curvature change measurement unit (130) can measure changes in physical quantities or images due to the generated curvature change.

[0056] For example, the curvature change measuring unit (130) may measure the curvature change by measuring the reflected heat transmitted to the surface of the object where the curvature change has occurred, measure the curvature change based on the image change of the object based on machine vision, or measure the curvature change by measuring the reflected wave of the sound transmitted to the surface of the object where the curvature change has occurred. In addition, various methods for measuring the curvature change of the object when a deformation occurs on the surface of the object may be applied.

[0057] The measurement of curvature change will be explained again later through Fig. 4.

[0058] The hardness calculation unit (140) can calculate the hardness for the object based on a change in a physical quantity measured from a change in the curvature of the object or a change in an image.

[0059] For example, the hardness calculation unit (140) can estimate the hardness of an object by utilizing the curvature-hardness relationship to calculate the hardness by utilizing the change in curvature.

[0060] Curvature refers to the curvature of a curve on the surface of an object, and generally, the curvature of a surface is a smooth curve in the case of fruits or agricultural products.

[0061] A model is established that defines the relationship between curvature and hardness, and this model can provide a method for estimating hardness for a given curvature. The relationship between curvature and hardness may vary depending on the characteristics of the object. For example, a relationship such as greater curvature can lead to higher hardness can be established.

[0062] By applying a model to the measured curvature, the hardness of an object can be calculated. This allows for estimating the hardness of an object and using it to determine the texture or ripeness of agricultural products.

[0063] In practice, mathematical methods can be used to perform these steps. For example, the surface of an object can be mathematically modeled, and from this, a mathematical relationship between curvature and hardness can be derived. Based on this, an algorithm can be developed in advance to calculate hardness based on changes in curvature.

[0064] From a mathematical perspective, it can generally be calculated using a function representing the relationship between curvature and hardness. This function can be used to calculate the hardness of an object for a given curvature. This function can take various forms depending on the given data or model.

[0065] Using this method, the hardness can be calculated using the change in curvature.

[0066] The control unit (150) can be interpreted as a central processing unit (CPU) and can perform various operations and process data within the system.

[0067] In particular, the control unit (150) can read commands from memory, interpret and execute the commands, and can also perform arithmetic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

[0068] In addition, the control unit (150) can handle data storage and retrieval, and can also perform the function of reading data from memory and storing the results of performing operations back into memory.

[0069] In addition, the control unit (150) can manage the execution flow of the program, and in particular, can control the flow of the program using commands such as conditional statements (if-else) or iterative statements (for, while). In addition, the control unit (150) can have a small and fast memory device called a register placed inside, and this register can be used to temporarily store data or perform operations.

[0070] The control unit (150) can process and take appropriate action when an external event or exceptional situation occurs, and can quickly access data and instructions by using cache memory that is faster than the main memory.

[0071] In addition, the control unit (150) can use a system bus to communicate with memory or input / output devices, and can provide various power management functions to minimize power consumption.

[0072] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating a hardness measurement system (200) according to another embodiment.

[0073] A hardness measurement system (200) according to another embodiment may further include an upper tray (210) and a distance measuring unit (220) in addition to the components of FIG. 1.

[0074] The upper tray (210) can have a non-contact pressurizing unit and a curvature change measuring unit placed thereon.

[0075] The distance measuring unit (220) can measure the distance between an object and the upper tray.

[0076] At this time, the control unit (150) can control the distance between the upper tray (210) and the object based on the measured distance.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the control unit (150) can control the distance between objects by driving the upper tray (210) up and down.

[0078] FIG. 3 is a drawing (300) explaining a specific embodiment of implementing a hardness measurement system according to one embodiment.

[0079] According to the embodiment of FIG. 3, the drawing symbol 301 may be interpreted as an object, such as an agricultural product whose hardness is to be measured, before being pressed, and the drawing symbols 302 to 304 may represent a state after being pressed by a non-contact pressurizing unit (120).

[0080] Drawing symbol 310 is a conveyor belt for moving agricultural products such as fruits.

[0081] The distance measuring unit (220) corresponds to a distance detection sensor for adjusting the height of the tray according to the size of agricultural products such as fruits, and the drawing symbol 210 corresponds to an upper tray that can be adjusted up and down to fit various sizes of agricultural products such as fruits.

[0082] In addition, the non-contact pressurizing unit (120) may include an air pressure generator that applies a certain amount of air pressure to agricultural products such as fruits in a non-contact manner, and non-contact air pressure can be applied within a range in which the quality of the agricultural products does not change.

[0083] In addition, the curvature change measuring unit (130) may include a heating source that heats agricultural products such as fruits at a constant temperature and time without contact, and includes a heating source that heats non-contact within a range where the quality of the agricultural products does not change. In addition, the curvature change measuring unit (130) may include a measuring and judging unit that measures surface curvature changes of agricultural products such as fruits by a pneumatic generator using an infrared thermal imaging sensor located adjacent to the heating source, and judges hardness in relation to radiation characteristics.

[0084] In the embodiment of FIG. 3, it is possible to measure the hardness of an object by using radiant heat from a heat source that heats agricultural products such as fruits, reflected heat from agricultural products such as fruits, and reflected heat captured by an infrared thermal imaging sensor.

[0085] That is, by applying compressed air (pneumatic pressure) non-contactly to cause a change in the curvature of the surface of agricultural products such as fruits, a heat source is applied non-contactly to the curvature of the fruit surface caused by the pneumatic pressure to confirm the radiation response, and it can be confirmed using an infrared thermal imaging sensor that the radiation response by the non-contact heat source differs depending on the difference in curvature.

[0086] The higher the curvature, the less the reflection compared to the radiation of heat, which means the hardness is low, and the lower or no curvature, the more the radiation and reflection of heat are constant, which can mean the hardness is high.

[0087] Fig. 4 is a drawing specifically explaining a curvature change measurement unit according to one embodiment.

[0088] The curvature change measurement unit (130) can measure changes in physical quantities or images due to the generated curvature change.

[0089] To this end, the curvature change measurement unit (130) may include at least one module among a reflection heat measurement unit (131), a vision sensor unit (132), or a sound wave measurement unit (133).

[0090] The reflected heat measuring unit (131) can measure the change in curvature by measuring the reflected heat due to the heat transmitted to the surface of the object where the change in curvature has occurred.

[0091] The reflected heat measuring unit (131) can detect a change in curvature by measuring the reflected heat caused by heat transmitted to the surface of an object where a change in curvature has occurred.

[0092] The reflected heat measurement unit (131) may mainly consist of a heat source, a reflected heat detector, and a data processing unit. The heat source applies a certain amount of heat to the surface of an object. As this heat reaches the surface of the object, some of it is absorbed and some is reflected. The reflected heat detector detects this reflected heat and transmits it to the data processing unit. The data processing unit analyzes the collected reflected heat data to calculate the change in curvature occurring on the surface of the object.

[0093] The principle of reflected heat measurement can be based on the physical properties of heat. When heat is transferred to the surface of an object, the amount of reflected heat can vary depending on the structural characteristics of the surface.

[0094] In particular, heat reflection appears differently in areas where there is a change in curvature. The reflected heat measurement unit (131) can precisely measure this change in reflected heat and detect changes in the surface curvature.

[0095] When a heat source applies heat to an object's surface, the heat reflection pattern changes depending on the surface's curvature. The heat reflectance can exhibit different values ​​depending on whether the surface is flat or curved.

[0096] Reflective heat detectors measure heat reflected from a surface using highly sensitive sensors. These sensors can detect heat across a wide range of wavelengths and can precisely detect even the smallest thermal changes.

[0097] The detected reflected heat data can be transmitted to a data processing device. This device analyzes the collected data to calculate changes in surface curvature. Various algorithms and mathematical models are used to precisely reconstruct the object's surface structure.

[0098] The vision sensor unit (132) can measure the change in curvature based on changes in the image of the object based on machine vision.

[0099] The vision sensor unit (132) can detect changes in the image of an object, such as agricultural products or fruits, based on machine vision and measure changes in the curvature of the object. This technology can precisely determine changes in the surface curvature of an object by utilizing image processing and analysis algorithms.

[0100] The vision sensor unit (132) consists of a high-resolution camera, a lighting system, an image processing device, and data analysis software.

[0101] High-resolution cameras capture images of an object's surface to collect detailed visual information.

[0102] The lighting system provides uniform and stable lighting, minimizing variations in brightness and color in the image. The image processing unit processes the captured image in real time and extracts specific features from the image.

[0103] Data analysis software analyzes the processed images to calculate changes in the object's curvature.

[0104] The vision sensor unit (132) can analyze the surface image of an object using machine vision technology. Machine vision technology enables computers to process and understand visual data, and can extract various information through image analysis and pattern recognition.

[0105] A high-resolution camera can capture images of objects, while a lighting system can provide uniform light to maintain image consistency.

[0106] The captured image is transmitted to an image processing device, where image processing techniques such as edge detection, shape analysis, and texture analysis can be used to extract features of the object's surface.

[0107] Extracted image features can be compared with previously stored reference images.

[0108] The reference image is the image before pressing the object, and is compared with the image after pressing.

[0109] When the surface curvature of an object changes, changes can be detected in specific areas of the image. For example, changes in curvature can alter the shadow or reflection patterns on the surface.

[0110] Data analysis software analyzes image data to calculate changes in the object's curvature. This can be done with greater precision using machine learning algorithms.

[0111] The vision sensor unit (132) is used to detect changes in the surface curvature of fruits or agricultural products to determine their freshness or ripeness. This helps determine harvest time and improve quality control.

[0112] Additionally, the vision sensor unit (132) can enhance quality control by monitoring the surface condition of food. For example, the surface condition of bread or pastries can be analyzed to maintain consistency in the production process.

[0113] The sound wave measuring unit (133) can measure the change in curvature by measuring the reflected wave of sound transmitted to the surface of the object where the change in curvature has occurred.

[0114] The sound wave measuring unit (133) can precisely determine structural changes in the surface of an object by utilizing the reflection characteristics of sound waves.

[0115] The sound wave measuring unit (133) may be composed of a transmitter, a receiver, and a data processing device.

[0116] The transmitter transmits sound waves of a certain frequency to the surface of an object, and the receiver can detect the sound waves reflected from the surface of the object. Furthermore, the data processing device can analyze the received reflected wave data to calculate changes in the object's curvature.

[0117] The principle of acoustic measurement is based on the physical properties of sound reflection. When sound waves reach an object's surface, the reflection pattern varies depending on the structural characteristics of the surface. The acoustic measurement unit precisely measures these changes in reflected waves, enabling it to detect changes in surface curvature.

[0118] When a transmitter sends out sound waves of a certain frequency toward the surface of an object, these sound waves propagate through the air and reach the surface of the object.

[0119] When sound waves reach an object's surface, the reflection pattern can vary depending on the surface's curvature. Flat surfaces and curved surfaces reflect sound waves differently.

[0120] The receiver can detect sound waves reflected from an object's surface. Data can be collected by measuring the characteristics of the reflected waves, such as arrival time, amplitude, and phase.

[0121] The data processing unit can analyze the received reflected wave data. It calculates changes in the curvature of the object's surface based on the reflection characteristics of the sound waves, allowing for precise identification of structural changes.

[0122] A curvature change measurement unit can detect these curvature changes and measure changes in physical quantities. This allows for the quantification and analysis of physical changes resulting from changes in the curvature of an object. For example, changes in pressure applied to an object's surface can be measured to assess curvature changes, or images of the object's surface can be captured to visually analyze changes in curvature.

[0123] Additionally, the curvature change measurement unit can detect curvature changes through changes in the image. By capturing an image of an object's surface and analyzing the changes in curvature in this image, changes in physical quantities can be estimated. This allows for non-destructive measurement and analysis of object curvature changes.

[0124] Figure 5 is a drawing illustrating an embodiment of calculating hardness by measuring a change in a physical quantity with respect to a change in the curvature of an object.

[0125] Objects can have various shapes and, under certain conditions, can exhibit changes in curvature. These changes can be induced by external factors, such as temperature or pressure changes, caused by the non-contact pressurizing element (120). These changes can affect the surface properties of the object.

[0126] In Fig. 5, a change in curvature occurring on the surface of an object can be detected using a heat source (501) as an external factor by a non-contact pressurizing unit (120) and a reflected heat detector (503) by the heat source (501).

[0127] Drawing symbol 510 represents the object before an external factor occurs, and drawing symbol 520 represents the object after an external factor occurs.

[0128] Depending on the change in curvature that occurs on the surface of the object, the reflection pattern of the reflected heat (502) changes, and accordingly, the total amount and pattern of the reflected heat (502) input to the reflected heat detector (503) change.

[0129] The curvature change measurement unit (130) can measure changes in physical quantities such as temperature or pressure that occur according to changes in curvature.

[0130] For example, a reflective heat detector (503) can be used to monitor temperature changes on the surface of an object in real time. Temperature changes are closely related to changes in curvature depending on the thermal properties of the object.

[0131] As another example, the curvature change measuring unit (130) can measure pressure changes applied to the surface of an object through a pressure sensor. Pressure changes can affect the structural characteristics of the object and induce curvature changes.

[0132] The curvature change measurement unit (130) can measure changes in physical quantities and then transmit the collected data to an external data processing device.

[0133] Additionally, the curvature change measurement unit (130) or an external data processing device can analyze temperature and pressure change data to calculate the curvature change of an object. This is accomplished through a specific algorithm, and complex mathematical models may be used for precise calculations.

[0134] FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating an embodiment of calculating hardness by measuring changes in an image for changes in the curvature of an object.

[0135] In Fig. 6, changes in the curvature of an object can be detected by measuring changes in the image.

[0136] To this end, a surface image of the object is captured using a high-resolution camera of a curvature change measurement unit (130). The captured image has a high resolution so as to be able to capture detailed changes in the surface.

[0137] The curvature change measurement unit (130) compares the captured image with a previously stored reference image and analyzes the difference between the two images to detect changes in the curvature of the surface.

[0138] The curvature change measurement unit (130) can calculate surface curvature changes using image processing software. Changes in the image can be precisely analyzed using techniques such as edge detection, pattern recognition, and shape analysis.

[0139] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation method of a hardness measurement system according to an embodiment.

[0140] A method of operating a hardness measurement system according to an embodiment of the present invention can measure a distance to an object separately from the object by moving the object in one direction (step 701) (step 702).

[0141] In this process, the distance between the upper tray equipped with the non-contact pressurizing unit (120) and the object can be adjusted so that the object can come close to the range where the pressure can be applied.

[0142] According to an embodiment, a method of operating a hardness measurement system may include applying pressure in a non-contact manner to an object moving in one direction with an intensity that reflects the measured distance, thereby causing a change in curvature on the surface of the object (step 703). For example, to cause a change in curvature on the surface of the object, pressure may be applied in a non-contact manner by changing the air pressure on the surface of the object, or pressure may be applied in a non-contact manner by changing the temperature on the surface of the object.

[0143] Next, the method of operating the hardness measurement system according to one embodiment can measure a change in a physical quantity or an image due to a change in curvature that has occurred (step 704).

[0144] According to an embodiment, a method of operating a hardness measurement system may measure a change in a physical quantity or an image due to a change in curvature that has occurred, by measuring reflected heat transmitted to the surface of an object in which a change in curvature has occurred, thereby measuring the change in curvature. In addition, the change in curvature may be measured based on a change in the image of the object based on machine vision, or the change in curvature may be measured by measuring a reflected wave of sound transmitted to the surface of the object in which a change in curvature has occurred.

[0145] The method of operating the hardness measurement system according to one embodiment can calculate the hardness for the object based on a change in the measured physical quantity or a change in the image (step 705).

[0146] Ultimately, the present invention provides a technology for measuring hardness by correlating changes in the curvature of a fruit surface, which occur using pneumatic pressure, with radiation characteristics in a non-contact, non-destructive manner. Furthermore, the height of the upper tray can be adjusted to accommodate fruits of various sizes using a distance sensor, and hardness, a critical quality factor, can be precisely measured using a non-contact, non-destructive method while preserving the commercial value of agricultural products such as fruits. Furthermore, hardness can be measured quickly and accurately, replacing inefficient manpower, and can be easily configured as an add-on to an existing fruit transport conveyor belt (roller system).

[0147]

[0148] The devices described above may be implemented as hardware components, software components, and / or a combination of hardware components and software components. For example, the devices and components described in the embodiments may be implemented using one or more general-purpose computers or special-purpose computers, such as, for example, a processor, a controller, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable array (FPA), a programmable logic unit (PLU), a microprocessor, or any other device capable of executing instructions and responding to them. The processing device may execute an operating system (OS) and one or more software applications running on the operating system. The processing device may also access, store, manipulate, process, and generate data in response to the execution of the software. For ease of understanding, the processing device is sometimes described as being used singly; however, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the processing device may include multiple processing elements and / or multiple types of processing elements. For example, the processing device may include multiple processors, or one processor and one controller. Additionally, other processing configurations, such as parallel processors, are also possible.

[0149] Software may include a computer program, code, instructions, or a combination of one or more of these, which may configure a processing device to do a desired thing or may independently or collectively command a processing device to do a desired thing.

[0150] The method according to the embodiment may be implemented in the form of program commands that can be executed through various computer means and recorded on a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium may include program commands, data files, data structures, etc., alone or in combination. The program commands recorded on the medium may be those specially designed and configured for the embodiment or may be those known and available to those skilled in the art of computer software. Examples of the computer-readable recording medium include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes, optical media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, magneto-optical media such as floptical disks, and hardware devices specially configured to store and execute program commands, such as ROMs, RAMs, and flash memories. Examples of the program commands include not only machine language codes generated by a compiler, but also high-level language codes that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter, etc. The hardware devices described above may be configured to operate as one or more software modules to perform the operations of the embodiment, and vice versa.

[0151] Although the embodiments described above have been described with limited drawings, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and variations can be made based on the above description. For example, appropriate results can still be achieved even if the described techniques are performed in a different order than described, and / or components of the described systems, structures, devices, circuits, etc. are combined or combined in a different manner than described, or are replaced or substituted with other components or equivalents.

[0152] Therefore, other implementations, other embodiments, and equivalents to the claims also fall within the scope of the claims described below.

Claims

1. A conveyor control unit that controls the conveyor to move objects in one direction; A non-contact pressurizing unit that applies pressure to an object moving in the above one direction in a non-contact manner to cause a change in curvature on the surface of the object; A curvature change measuring unit that measures changes in physical quantities or images due to the above-mentioned changes in curvature; and A hardness measurement system including a hardness calculation unit that calculates hardness for the object based on a change in the measured physical quantity or a change in the image.

2. In paragraph 1, An upper tray on which the non-contact pressurizing unit and the curvature change measuring unit are arranged; a distance measuring unit for measuring the distance between the object and the upper tray; and A hardness measurement system including a control unit that controls the distance between the upper tray and the object based on the measured distance.

3. In paragraph 1, The above non-contact pressurizing part is, A hardness measurement system characterized by applying pressure in a non-contact manner by changing the air pressure on the surface of the object.

4. In paragraph 1, The above non-contact pressurizing part is, A hardness measurement system characterized by applying pressure in a non-contact manner by changing the temperature of the surface of the object.

5. In paragraph 1, The above curvature change measuring unit is, A hardness measurement system characterized by including a reflection heat measuring unit that measures the change in curvature by measuring the reflected heat transmitted to the surface of the object where the change in curvature has occurred.

6. In paragraph 1, The above curvature change measuring unit is, A hardness measurement system characterized by including a vision sensor unit that measures the change in curvature based on a change in an image of an object based on machine vision.

7. In paragraph 1, The above curvature change measuring unit is, A hardness measurement system characterized by including a sound wave measuring unit that measures the change in curvature by measuring a reflected wave of sound transmitted to the surface of the object where the change in curvature has occurred.

8. Step to move the object in one direction; Steps to measure the distance to an object A step of applying pressure in a non-contact manner to an object moving in the above one direction with an intensity reflecting the measured distance, thereby causing a change in curvature on the surface of the object; A step of measuring a change in a physical quantity or an image due to the change in curvature that occurred above; and A method of operating a hardness measurement system, comprising a step of calculating hardness for the object based on a change in the measured physical quantity or a change in the image.

9. In paragraph 8, The step of applying pressure in a non-contact manner to an object moving in the above one direction with an intensity reflecting the measured distance to cause a change in curvature on the surface of the object is as follows: A method of operating a hardness measurement system, characterized in that it includes a step of applying pressure in a non-contact manner by changing the air pressure on the surface of the object.

10. In paragraph 8, The step of applying pressure in a non-contact manner to an object moving in the above one direction with an intensity reflecting the measured distance to cause a change in curvature on the surface of the object is as follows: A method of operating a hardness measurement system, characterized in that it includes a step of applying pressure in a non-contact manner by changing the temperature of the surface of the object.

11. In paragraph 8, The step of measuring the change in physical quantity or image due to the change in curvature that occurred above is: An operating method of a hardness measurement system, characterized in that it comprises a step of measuring the change in curvature by measuring the reflected heat due to heat transmitted to the surface of the object where the change in curvature has occurred.

12. In paragraph 8, The step of measuring the change in physical quantity or image due to the change in curvature that occurred above is: An operating method of a hardness measurement system, characterized in that it includes a step of measuring a change in curvature based on an image change of an object based on machine vision.

13. In paragraph 8, The step of measuring the change in physical quantity or image due to the change in curvature that occurred above is: A method of operating a hardness measurement system, characterized in that it comprises a step of measuring a change in curvature by measuring a reflected wave of sound transmitted to the surface of the object where the change in curvature has occurred.

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