Optical classifier

Abstract

OPTICAL CLASSIFIER. This includes a trough arranged in an inclined manner to allow classification targets to flow downwards, optical detection means to detect the classification targets at a detection position, and ejector means to classify and remove the classification targets based on the result of the detection by the optical detection means. The trough is provided with an optical detection slit in a direction orthogonal to a downward flow direction of the classification targets; the slit width of the optical detection slit is adjustable, and the optical detection means images the classification targets flowing downwards in the trough with the imaging means at a position where the optical detection slit is provided as the detection position.

Description

1 / 35 “OPTICAL CLASSIFIER” Field of Technique

[0001] The present invention relates to an optical classifier for sorting grains. Background of the Technique

[0002] Conventionally, an optical classifier is known that classifies raw materials, including grains such as rice or wheat, resin pellets, coffee beans or other grains, into non-defective and defective based on color, for example, or determines and removes foreign matter mixed in the raw material based on color, for example (see Patent Literature 1 and Patent Literature 2).

[0003] The optical classifier described in each of Patent Literatures 1 and 2 includes an inclined chute and is configured so that the grains falling from the lower end of the chute along a constant path are irradiated with light from a light source and then light reflected or transmitted from the grains is received by a sensor so that detection grains, foreign matter and the like are detected. Then the detected detection grains, foreign matter and the like are blown out by an ejector so that the grains are classified into non-defective grains and defective grains.

[0004] Incidentally, in the aforementioned optical classifier, the grains falling from the lower end of the chute include grains that do not fall along a constant falling path due to differences in grain shape or size, differences in grain flight attitude in the air, and the like. In this case, it would be impossible to detect defective grains, foreign matter, and Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 8 / 93 2 / 35 similar with high precision, which can influence classification performance.

[0005] In response, the Applicant of the present application provided the chute with an optical detection slit at a grain detection position. The Applicant then proposed an optical classifier in which the grains flowing down the chute are irradiated with light and then the reflected light or the light transmitted from the grains is received by a sensor so that defective grains, foreign matter and the like are detected (see Patent Application No. JP 2019-209821; hereinafter referred to as a prior invention).

[0006] According to the aforementioned optical classifier of the prior invention, grains that always flow down the chute along a constant path can be detected. Thus, it is possible to detect defective grains, foreign matter and the like with greater accuracy than with the conventional optical classifier and thus improve the classification performance.

[0007] However, in the aforementioned optical classifier of the prior invention, the edge of the optical detection slit may become shadowed depending on the size of the grains as raw material, and in that case, the amount of light required to detect grains may become insufficient, which may result in classification failures. Citation List PATENT LITERATURE:

[0008] [Patent Literature 1] Patent Publication Open to Public Inspection No. JP 8-252535 Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 9 / 93 3 / 35

[0009] [Patent Literature 2] Patent Publication Open to Public Inspection in JP 2009-50760 Summary of the Invention Problem of the Technique

[0010] In view of the foregoing, it is an objective of the present invention to provide an optical classifier that detects defective grains of sorting targets, foreign matter and the like with high precision and thus better sorting performance and further ensures the amount of light required to detect grains as sorting targets even when the size of the grains as sorting targets is altered, thus avoiding sorting failures due to insufficient light. Solution to the Problem

[0011] To achieve the aforementioned objective, the present invention provides an optical classifier comprising a trough arranged in an inclined manner to allow the classification targets to flow downwards; optical detection means for detecting the classification targets at a detection position; and ejector means for classifying and removing the classification targets based on a detection result of the optical detection means, wherein the optical detection means include illumination means for illuminating the detection position and imaging means for imaging the classification targets at the detection position, the trough is provided with an optical detection slit in a direction orthogonal to a downward flow direction of the classification targets, a slit width of the optical detection slit is adjustable and the optical detection means illuminate the classification targets flowing downwards in the trough with the illumination media at a position where the Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 10 / 93 4 / 35 optical detection slit is provided as the detection position, and the images of the classification targets illuminated by the illumination means with the imaging means.

[0012] In the present invention, the trough preferably includes a first trough portion and a second trough portion located on an upstream side of the first trough portion, wherein the first trough portion and the second trough portion preferably have downward flow faces parallel along the downward flow direction of the classification targets, the optical detection slit is preferably formed between the first trough portion and the second trough portion such that a lower slit edge is formed by the first trough portion and an upper slit edge is formed by the second trough portion,wherein the first and / or second trough portions are preferably provided such that a vertical position of the first and / or second trough portions along the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable, and the slit width of the optical detection slit is preferably adjustable by adjusting the vertical position of the first and / or second trough portions.

[0013] In the present invention, the trough preferably includes a first trough portion and a second trough portion located on an upstream side of the first trough portion, wherein the first trough portion and the second trough portion preferably have downward flow faces parallel along the downward flow direction of the classification targets, the optical detection slit is preferably formed between the first trough portion and the second trough portion such that a lower slit edge Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 11 / 93 5 / 35 is formed by the first trough portion and an upper slit edge is formed by the second trough portion, the first trough portion is preferably connected to the second trough portion so that a vertical position of the first trough portion along the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable and the slit width of the optical detection slit is preferably adjustable by adjusting the vertical position of the first trough portion.

[0014] In the present invention, the first trough portion is preferably fixed to the second trough portion in a vertically sliding manner along the downward flow direction of the classification targets, and the slit width of the optical detection slit is preferably adjustable by sliding the first trough portion and thus adjusting the vertical position of the first trough portion.

[0015] In the present invention, the first portion of the trough is preferably provided with a scale having the lower edge of the slit as a base point, so that the scale extends to an upstream side along the downward flow direction of the classification targets and the slit width of the optical detection slit is preferably adjustable with reference to the scale.

[0016] In the present invention, the second trough portion is preferably fixed to the classifier so that a vertical position of the second trough portion along the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable and a position of the upper edge of the optical slit detection is preferably adjustable by adjusting the vertical position of the second trough portion. Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 12 / 93 6 / 35

[0017] In the present document, the classifier portion to which the second trough portion is attached includes, for example, a classifier body structure, as well as any classifier component to which the second trough portion can be attached directly or indirectly, so that the vertical position of the second trough portion along the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable.

[0018] In the present invention, the second trough portion is preferably fixed to the classifier in a vertically sliding manner along the downward flow direction of the classification targets, and the position of the upper edge of the optical detection slit is preferably adjustable by sliding the second trough portion and thus adjusting the vertical position of the second trough portion.

[0019] In the present invention, the trough preferably further includes a third trough portion located on an upstream side of the second trough portion, wherein the second trough portion and the third trough portion preferably have downward flow faces parallel along the downward flow direction of the classification targets, the second trough portion is preferably fixed to the third trough portion such that a vertical position of the second trough portion along the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable and a position of the upper edge of the optical detection slit is preferably adjustable by adjusting the vertical position of the second trough portion.

[0020] In the present invention, the second trough portion is preferably fixed to the third trough portion in a vertically sliding manner along the downward flow direction of the targets. Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 13 / 93 7 / 35 classification, and the position of the upper edge of the optical detection slot is preferably adjustable by sliding the second trough portion and thus adjusting the vertical position of the second trough portion.

[0021] In the present invention, the trough preferably includes a first trough portion and a second trough portion located on an upstream side of the first trough portion, wherein the first trough portion and the second trough portion preferably have downward flow faces parallel along the downward flow direction of the classification targets, the optical detection slit is preferably formed between the first trough portion and the second trough portion such that a lower slit edge is formed by the first trough portion and an upper slit edge is formed by the second trough portion,The first section of the trough is preferably fixed to the classifier so that a vertical position of the first section of the trough along the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable, and / or the second section of the trough is preferably fixed to the classifier so that a vertical position of the second section of the trough along the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable, and the slit width of the optical detection slit is preferably adjustable by adjusting the vertical position of the first section of the trough and / or adjusting the vertical position of the second section of the trough.

[0022] In this document, the classifier portion to which the first trough portion and / or the second trough portion are / are attached includes, for example, a classifier body structure, as well as any classifier component to which the first trough portion and / or the second trough portion can be attached directly or indirectly so that the Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 14 / 93 8 / 35 The vertical position of the first section of the trough and / or the second section of the trough along the downward flow direction of the classification targets should be adjustable.

[0023] In the present invention, the first trough portion is preferably fixed to the classifier in a vertically sliding manner along the downward flow direction of the classification targets and / or the second trough portion is preferably fixed to the classifier in a vertically sliding manner along the downward flow direction of the classification targets, and the slit width of the optical detection slit is preferably adjustable by sliding the first trough portion and thus adjusting the vertical position of the first trough portion and / or sliding the second trough portion and thus adjusting the vertical position of the second trough portion.

[0024] In the present invention, the optical classifier preferably also includes a discharge hopper that separately discharges the sorted classification targets by the ejector means, and the first trough portion is preferably fixed to the discharge hopper so that the vertical position of the first trough portion along the direction of the downward flow of the classification targets is adjustable.

[0025] In the present invention, the first trough portion is preferably fixed to the discharge hopper in a vertically sliding manner along the downward flow direction of the classification targets.

[0026] In the present invention, the gutter preferably includes a first gutter portion and a second gutter portion located in a Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, page 15 / 93 9 / 35 upstream side of the first trough portion, wherein the first trough portion and the second trough portion preferably have downward flow faces parallel along the downward flow direction of the classification targets, the optical detection slit is preferably formed between the first trough portion and the second trough portion such that a lower slit edge is formed by the first trough portion and an upper slit edge is formed by the second trough portion, wherein the trough preferably also includes a third trough portion located on an upstream side of the second trough portion, wherein the second trough portion and the third trough portion preferably have parallel downward flow faces along the downward flow direction of the classification targets,The first trough section is preferably fixed to the classifier so that a vertical position of the first trough section along the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable; the second trough section is preferably fixed to the third trough section so that a vertical position of the second trough section along the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable; and the slit width of the optical detection slit is preferably adjustable by adjusting the vertical position of the first trough section and / or adjusting the vertical position of the second trough section.

[0027] In this document, the classifier portion to which the first trough portion is attached includes, for example, a classifier body structure, as well as any classifier component to which the first trough portion can be attached directly or indirectly, so that Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, page 16 / 93 10 / 35 the vertical position of the first section of the chute along the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable.

[0028] In the present invention, the first trough portion is preferably fixed to the classifier in a vertically sliding manner along the downward flow direction of the classification targets and / or the second trough portion is preferably fixed to the third trough portion in a vertically sliding manner along the downward flow direction of the classification targets, and the slit width of the optical detection slit is preferably adjustable by sliding the first trough portion and thus adjusting the vertical position of the first trough portion and / or sliding the second trough portion and thus adjusting the vertical position of the second trough portion.

[0029] In the present invention, the optical classifier preferably also includes a discharge hopper that separately discharges the sorted classification targets by the ejector means, and the first trough portion is preferably fixed to the discharge hopper so that the vertical position of the first trough portion along the direction of the downward flow of the classification targets is adjustable.

[0030] In the present invention, the first trough portion is preferably fixed to the discharge hopper in a vertically sliding manner along the downward flow direction of the classification targets.

[0031] In the present invention, the parallel downward flow faces of the first trough portion and the second trough portion are preferably provided with a step so that the flow face Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, page 17 / 93 11 / 35 of the descending flow face of the first section of the channel is located below the descending flow face of the second section of the channel.

[0032] In the present invention, the pitch is preferably adjustable to match the slit width of the optical detection slit.

[0033] In the present invention, the ejector means preferably includes an ejector nozzle that selectively blows air from a plurality of nozzle orifices, the first trough portion is preferably provided with a sorting removal slot on a downstream side of the optical detection slot in a direction orthogonal to the downward flow direction of the sorting targets, and the ejector nozzle is preferably disposed on a side of the lower face of the first trough portion, such that one end of the nozzle tip faces the sorting removal slot and removes the sorting targets flowing downwards in the first trough portion by blowing air on a side of the upper face of the trough.

[0034] In the present invention, the ejector nozzle is preferably disposed on the lower face side of the first trough portion with the tip end of the nozzle facing the classification removal slot so that the tip end of the nozzle is inserted through the classification removal slot or touches or is located close to the lower face side of the first trough portion and thus the plurality of nozzle orifices communicate with the classification removal slot directly or indirectly.

[0035] In the present invention, when the position of the sorting removal slot along the downward flow direction of the sorting targets is changed along with the adjustment of the slot width of the slot. Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 18 / 93 With 12 / 35 optical detection, the air blast time of the ejector nozzle is preferably adjusted.

[0036] In the present invention, the optical detection means are preferably provided on one side of the upper face and / or on one side of the lower face of the trough, and the sorting targets flowing down the trough are preferably illuminated by the illumination means on the side of the upper face and / or the side of the lower face of the trough, and the sorting targets illuminated by the illumination means are preferably visualized by the imaging means on the side of the upper face and / or the side of the lower face of the trough.

[0037] Advantageous Effects of the Invention

[0038] In the optical classifier of the present invention, the chute is provided with an optical detection slit in a direction orthogonal to the downward flow direction of the classification targets. The optical detection means illuminate the sorting targets flowing down the chute with the illumination means in the position where the optical detection slit is provided as the detection position. Then, the classification targets illuminated by the illumination means can be visualized by the imaging means. Thus, unlike the conventional optical classifier that detects classification targets falling from the lower end of the chute, it is possible to detect classification targets that always flow down the chute along a constant path.

[0039] Thus, according to the optical classifier of the present invention, it is possible to detect defective grains from the classification targets, Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 19 / 93 13 / 35 foreign matter and similar substances with greater accuracy than with conventional optical classifiers. Thus, classification performance can be improved.

[0040] In the optical classifier of the present invention, since the slit width of the optical detection slit is adjustable, the slit width can be adjusted to a width that is suitable for the size of the classification targets.

[0041] Thus, according to the optical classifier of the present invention, it is possible to guarantee the amount of light necessary to detect classification targets as raw material even when the size of the classification targets is altered and, thus, avoid classification failures due to a shortage of light.

[0042] In the optical classifier of the present invention, the trough includes a first trough portion and a second trough portion located on the upstream side of the first trough portion. Furthermore, the first trough portion and the second trough portion have downward flow faces parallel along the downward flow direction of the classification targets. The optical detection slit is formed between the first trough portion and the second trough portion such that a lower slit edge is formed by the first trough portion and an upper slit edge is formed by the second trough portion. The first rail portion and / or the second rail portion are provided such that their vertical position along the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable. According to such configuration, the slit width of the optical detection slit is adjustable by adjusting the vertical position of the first trough portion and / or the second trough portion.Thus, the width of. Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 20 / 93 The 14 / 35 slot can be freely adjusted to become wider on the upstream side, the downstream side, or both the upstream and downstream sides.

[0043] In the optical classifier of the present invention, the first trough portion is fixed to the second trough portion in a vertically sliding manner along the downward flow direction of the classification targets. As the slit width of the optical detection slit is adjustable by sliding the first trough portion and thus adjusting the vertical position of the first trough portion, the slit width can be easily adjusted.

[0044] In the optical classifier of the present invention, the first portion of the trough is provided with a scale having the lower edge of the slit as its base point, so that the scale extends upstream along the downward flow direction of the classification targets. As the slit width of the optical detection slit is adjustable with reference to the scale, the slit width can be easily adjusted.

[0045] In the optical classifier of the present invention, since the parallel downflow faces of the first trough portion and the second trough portion are provided with a step, so that the downflow face of the first trough portion is located below the downflow face of the second trough portion, it is possible to prevent the classification targets from jumping when colliding with the lower edge of the slot.

[0046] In the present invention, the ejector means includes an ejector nozzle that selectively blows air from a plurality of nozzle orifices. The first trough portion is provided with a sorting removal slot on the downstream side of the optical detection slot in a direction orthogonal to the flow direction. Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 21 / 93 15 / 35 descending of the sorting targets. The ejector nozzle is positioned on the lower face of the first trough section so that the tip of the nozzle faces the sorting removal slot. Thus, the ejector nozzle can remove sorting targets flowing down the descending flow face of the first trough section by blowing air towards the upper face of the trough. Therefore, unlike conventional optical sorters that sort and remove sorting targets that fall from the lower end of the trough, it is possible to sort and remove sorting targets that always flow down the trough along a constant path.

[0047] Thus, according to the optical classifier of the present invention, it is possible to separate and remove defective grains from classification targets, foreign matter and the like with greater precision than with the conventional optical classifier and thus further improve classification performance. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0048] Figure 1 is a side view in section of an optical classifier.

[0049] Figure 2 is an illustrative view of an optical sorting unit of a prior invention.

[0050] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a gutter of the prior invention.

[0051] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a gutter according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of a main part of Figure 4. Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 22 / 93 16 / 35

[0053] Figure 6 is a side view in section of Figure 5.

[0054] Figure 7 is an illustrative view of an example where the slit width of an optical detection slit in Figure 6 is adjusted.

[0055] Figure 8 is an illustrative view of an example where the slit width of the optical detection slit in Figure 6 is adjusted.

[0056] Figure 9 is an illustrative view of an example where the slit width of the optical detection slit in Figure 6 is adjusted. Description of Modalities

[0057] The embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Optical Classifier

[0058] Figure 1 is a side view in section illustrating an example of an optical classifier. In each embodiment of the present invention, an optical classifier 1 includes a grain supply unit 2 that supplies grains as raw material, a chute 3 that is arranged in an inclined manner and thus allows the grains to flow downwards, an optical sorting unit 4 that detects the downward flow of grains in the chute 3 and classifies the grains into non-defective grains and defective grains based on the detection results, and a discharge hopper 5 that separately discharges the grains classified into non-defective grains and defective grains by the optical sorting unit 4.

[0059] The grain supply unit 2 includes a raw material tank (not shown) and a vibratory feeder 21 that feeds grain stored in the raw material tank to the chute 3. Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, page 23 / 93 17 / 35

[0060] Chute 3 has a predetermined width and is arranged at an angle in a position below the tip end side of the vibratory feeder 21. Chute 3 can allow the grains fed from the vibratory feeder 21 to flow down by gravity.

[0061] The optical sorting unit 4 includes a pair of optical detection devices 41a and 41b arranged on the upper and lower faces of the chute 3, a determination device 42 that determines whether the grains are non-defective or defective grains based on imaging signals obtained with the optical detection devices 41a and 41b, and an ejector device 43 that removes the defective grains based on the determination results of the determination device 42 and thus sorts the grains into non-defective and defective grains.

[0062] The discharge hopper 5 includes a discharge passage for non-defective grains 51 and a discharge passage for defective grains 52 which separately discharge the separated grains into non-defective grains and defective grains by the ejector device 43.

[0063] In optical classifier 1, the grains stored in the raw material tank of the grain supply unit 2 are continuously fed into chute 3 by the vibratory feeder 21. The fed grains flow continuously down the surface of chute 3 by gravity as they spread out in the direction of the width of chute 3.

[0064] The grains flowing down in chute 3 are visualized by means of imaging from optical detection devices 41a and 41b in the optical sorting unit 4. Determination device 42 compares the signal levels, such as the amounts of light or color components, of the signals from Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, page 24 / 93 18 / 35 image obtained with the imaging means with a threshold. The grains are determined as non-defective grains or defective grains based on the results of the comparison with the threshold. Then, the determination device 42 sends a removal signal to the ejector device 43 so that the defective grains are removed with an air jet from the ejector device 43 and thus the grains are classified into non-defective grains and defective grains.

[0065] Next, the grains classified as non-defective grains are discharged from the non-defective grain discharge passage 51 of the discharge hopper 5 and the grains classified as defective grains are discharged from the defective grain discharge passage 52 of the discharge hopper 5. Optical Classification Unit

[0066] Figure 2 is an illustrative view of an optical sorting unit of a prior invention. Figure 3 is a perspective view of a trough of the prior invention.

[0067] In an optical sorting unit 4 of the prior invention, a trough 3 is provided with an optical detection slit 31, which is continuously open in the direction of the width of the trough 3, in a direction orthogonal to the downward flow direction of the grains.

[0068] Chute 3 is also equipped with a sorting removal slot 32, which is continuously open in the direction of the width of the chute 3, in a direction orthogonal to the downward flow direction of grains on the downstream side of the optical detection slot 31. Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 25 / 93 19 / 35

[0069] In the optical classification unit 4, each of the optical detection devices 41a and 41b incorporates a line sensor or an area sensor, such as a CCD, which can correspond to grains flowing down the chute 3 as they spread out in the direction of the chute's width. The optical detection devices 41a and 41b, respectively, include imaging means 411a and 411b, such as CCD cameras, which can receive light in the wavelength range of near-infrared (NIR), visible rays, or ultraviolet rays, for example; illumination means 412a and 412b, such as LED light sources or fluorescent lamps, which illuminate a detection position O of the chute 3 in which the grains flow down; and a background portion that serves as a background when the grains are visualized by the imaging means 411a and 411b at the detection position O.

[0070] The ejector device 43 includes an ejector nozzle 431 corresponding to grains flowing down the trough 3 while spreading in the direction of the width of the same as with the optical detection devices 41a and 41b. The ejector nozzle 431 has a plurality of nozzle holes formed in it in the direction of the width of the trough 3, and one or more of the nozzle holes are selected so that air can be blown from them. The ejector device 43 also includes an ejector drive device (not shown) that allows air to be blown from the ejector nozzle 431 based on a removal signal sent from the determination device.

[0071] Optical detection devices 41a and 41b are arranged so that their detection position O is the position of the chute 3 in which the optical detection slit 31 is provided. Optical detection devices 41a and 41b, respectively, allow the grains flowing downwards to be detected. Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 26 / 93 20 / 35 in channel 3 are illuminated by illumination means 412a and 412b in detection position O on the upper face side and on the lower face side of the channel and then visualized by imaging means 411a and 411b.

[0072] The ejector device 43 is arranged so that the tip end of the ejector nozzle 431 touches or is located close to the side of the lower face of the chute 3. The plurality of nozzle orifices of the ejector nozzle 431 are arranged so that they communicate with the classification removal slot 32 directly or indirectly, so that the grains determined to be defective among the grains flowing down the chute 3 are removed by an air jet to the side of the upper face of the chute 3 through the classification removal slot 32.

[0073] Then, the grains determined to be non-defective among the grains flowing down in chute 3 are discharged from the non-defective grain discharge passage 51 of the discharge hopper 5. The grains determined to be defective among the grains flowing down in chute 3 are discharged from the defective grain discharge passage 52 of the discharge hopper 5.

[0074] In the above description, each of the imaging means 411a and 411b incorporates either a line sensor or an area sensor. When each of the imaging means 411a and 411b incorporates a line sensor, it is possible to detect defective and similar grains with greater accuracy than when it incorporates an area sensor, even if the slit width of the optical detection slit 31 is narrow.

[0075] In the above description, an LED light source, a fluorescent lamp, or similar is used for each of the means of Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, page 27 / 93 21 / 35 illumination 412a and 412b. When an LED light source is used, light scattering is unlikely to occur due to the characteristics of the LED light source. Thus, it is possible to ensure a sufficient amount of light for image grains with imaging media 411a and 411b compared to when a fluorescent lamp is used even if the optical detection slit width 31 is narrow.

[0076] However, even when using a fluorescent lamp for each of the lighting media 412a and 412b, it is possible to obtain advantageous effects similar to those obtained when using an LED light source, by light condensation.

[0077] The slit width of the optical detection slit 31 provided in the chute 3 can be set taking into account the size of each sensor element, the amount of light received by each sensor, the angle of inclination of the chute, the weight or size of the grains flowing down the chute, and the like. For example, when the grains are rice grains, the slit width of the optical detection slit 31 can be set to 1 to 2 mm.

[0078] The width of the classification removal slot 32 provided in chute 3 can be adjusted to a width that allows defective grains to be safely removed.

[0079] In the above-mentioned description, the screening removal slot 32 is formed so that it is continuously open in the direction of the width of the chute 3, but it can also be formed so that it is intermittently open in the direction of the width of the chute 3 corresponding to the plurality of nozzle holes of the ejector nozzle 431. Embodiments of the Present Invention Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 28 / 93 22 / 35

[0080] In the optical classifier according to each embodiment of the present invention, the slit width of the optical detection slit 31 provided in the channel 3 of the prior invention is adjustable. The other settings are as described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Thus, their description is omitted in the present document. Mode 1 Example 1

[0081] Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of a gutter according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 5 illustrates an enlarged view of a main part of Figure 4. Figure 6 illustrates a side view in section of Figure 5.

[0082] In embodiment 1 of this invention, a channel 7 includes a first channel portion 7A and a second channel portion 7B located on the upstream side of the first channel portion 7A.

[0083] The first trough section 7A and the second trough section 7B have downward flow faces parallel along the downward flow direction of the grains.

[0084] The trough 7 has a lower split edge 71A formed at the upper end of the first trough portion 7A and has an upper split edge 71B formed at the lower end of the second trough portion 7B. In addition, an optical detection slit 71 is formed between the upper end of the first trough portion 7A and the lower end of the second trough portion 7B in a direction orthogonal to the downward grain flow direction. Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 29 / 93 23 / 35

[0085] As illustrated in Figure 5, each of the opposite side walls of the first trough section 7A has a long hole 73 formed in it. Each of the opposite side walls of the second trough section 7B is provided with two screws 74 adapted to be inserted through each long hole 73. In addition, a nut 75 is attached to each screw 74 so that the second trough section 7B and the first trough section 7A are integrally fixed. When each nut 75 is loosened, the first trough section 7A can be slid into the second trough section 7B along the downward grain flow direction.

[0086] The inner face of at least one of the side walls of the first trough portion 7A is provided with a scale 76, which has as its base point the lower slit edge 71A at the upper end of the first trough portion 7A, along the downward flow direction of the grains so that the scale 76 extends to the upstream side.

[0087] Furthermore, the parallel downflow faces of the first channel portion 7A and the second channel portion 7B are provided with a step so that the downflow face of the first channel portion 7A is located below the downflow face of the second channel portion 7B.

[0088] In the example illustrated in Figure 6, the position of the optical detection slit 71 is adjusted so that the optical axes Xa and Xb, which connect respectively the imaging media 411a and 411b, such as CCD cameras, illustrated in Figure 2 and the detection position O in the channel 7, pass through the center of the slit in the direction of the downward flow of the grains G. Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 30 / 93 24 / 35

[0089] Figure 7 illustrates an example in which the slit width of the optical detection slit in Figure 6 is adjusted. That is, Figure 7 is an illustrative view of an example in which the slit width is adjusted so that it becomes wider towards the downstream side relative to the detection position O (i.e., an intersection of the optical axis Xa and the optical axis Xb).

[0090] In Embodiment 1 of this invention, the slit width of the optical detection slit 71 can be adjusted by adjusting the position of the lower edge of the slit 71A by sliding the first trough portion 7A into the second trough portion 7B and thus adjusting the vertical position of the first trough portion 7A.

[0091] When the slot width is adjusted, since the first section of channel 7A is equipped with scale 76 which has the lower edge of slot 71A as a base point, it is possible to easily adjust the slot width while viewing scale 76.

[0092] Because the parallel downward flow faces for the grains of the first trough portion 7A and the second trough portion 7B are provided with a step so that the downward flow face of the first trough portion 7A is located below the downward flow face of the second trough portion 7B, it is possible to prevent the grains from jumping and colliding with the lower edge of the slot 71A.

[0093] This step is preferably adjusted to match the slit width of the optical detection slit 71.

[0094] In Embodiment 1 of the present invention, the first trough portion 7A is provided with a sorting removal slot 72 in a Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 31 / 93 25 / 35 direction orthogonal to the downward flow direction of the G grains on the downstream side of the optical detection slit 71.

[0095] Furthermore, as illustrated in Figures 6 and 7, an ejector nozzle 831 is arranged on the lower face of the first trough portion 7A, so that the tip end of the nozzle is located close to the classification removal slot 72.

[0096] The ejector nozzle 831 can remove the G grains flowing down the downflow face of the first trough portion 7A by blowing air to the side of the upper face of the trough 7 through the classification removal slot 72.

[0097] The tip end of the ejector nozzle 831 may, in addition to being located near the classification removal slot 72, touch the lower face side of the first trough portion 7A or be inserted through the classification removal slot 72. Consequently, the plurality of nozzle holes of the ejector nozzle 831 may be arranged on the lower face side of the first trough portion 7A so that they communicate with the classification removal slot 72 directly or indirectly.

[0098] In the example illustrated in Figure 7, the slit width of the optical detection slit 71 is adjusted so that it becomes wider towards the downstream side. Therefore, the position of the classification removal slit 72 is changed to the downstream side relative to the detection position O (i.e., the intersection of the optical axis Xa and the optical axis Xb) along the downward flow direction of the grains G. In this case, adjusting the air blasting time of the ejector nozzle 831, delaying it, can reliably remove the grains G by blowing air towards the upper face side of the chute 7. Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 32 / 93 26 / 35

[0099] In the example mentioned above, the slit width of the optical detection slit 71 is adjusted by sliding the first rail portion 7A into the second rail portion 7B and thus adjusting the vertical position of the first rail portion 7A. However, the present invention is not limited to such a method. For example, it is also possible to configure the first rail portion 7A to be attachable and detachable from the second rail portion 7B with screws and the like, and to adjust the slit width by changing the fixing position of the first rail portion 7A relative to the second rail portion 7B. Example 2

[0100] In embodiment 1 of the present invention, the second trough portion 7B can be attached to the classifier in a vertically sliding manner along the downward grain flow direction.

[0101] In the optical detection slot 71, the position of the upper edge of the slot 71B can be adjusted by sliding the second rail portion 7B in the classifier and thus adjusting the vertical position of the second rail portion 7B.

[0102] In this document, the part of the classifier to which the second trough portion 7B is attached includes, for example, a classifier body structure, as well as any classifier component to which the second trough portion 7B can be attached directly or indirectly.

[0103] Each of Figures 8 and 9 illustrates an example in which the slit width of the optical detection slit in Figure 6 is adjusted. Figure 8 is an illustrative view of an example in which the slit width is adjusted so that it becomes wider towards the upstream side relative to the detection position O (i.e., the intersection of the optical axis Xa and the optical axis Xb). Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 33 / 93 27 / 35 Figure 9 is an illustrative view of an example where the slit width is adjusted so that it becomes wider both upstream and downstream relative to the detection position O (i.e., the intersection of the optical axis Xa and the optical axis Xb).

[0104] In the example illustrated in Figure 8, the second portion of trough 7B of trough 7 in the state illustrated in Figure 7 is slid in the classifier to the upstream side.

[0105] Meanwhile, in the example illustrated in Figure 9, the first portion of channel 7A of channel 7 in the state illustrated in Figure 8 is still slid into the second portion of channel 7B to the downstream side.

[0106] In the optical detection slot 71 of the aforementioned example, the position of the upper slot edge 71B is adjusted by sliding the second rail portion 7B in the classifier and thus adjusting the vertical position of the second rail portion 7B. However, the present invention is not limited to such a method. For example, the second rail portion 7B can be configured to be attachable and detachable from the classifier with screws and the like, and the position of the upper slot edge 71B can be adjusted by changing the attachment position of the second rail portion 7B relative to the classifier. Example 3

[0107] In embodiment 1 of this invention, the trough 7 may include a third trough portion that is located on the upstream side of the second trough portion 7B and includes a downward flow face parallel along the downward flow direction of the grains. Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 34 / 93 28 / 35

[0108] In such a case, the second trough section 7B can be attached to the third trough section in a vertically sliding manner along the downward grain flow direction.

[0109] Furthermore, in the optical detection slot 71, the vertical position of the second trough portion 7B can be adjusted by sliding the second trough portion 7B into the third trough portion. Consequently, the position of the upper slit edge 71B can be adjusted as in Example 2.

[0110] In the example mentioned above, the position of the upper slot edge 71B of the optical detection slot 71 is adjusted by sliding the second rail portion 7B into the third rail portion and thus adjusting the vertical position of the second rail portion 7B. However, the present invention is not limited to such a method. For example, the second rail portion 7B can be configured to be attachable and detachable from the third rail portion with screws and the like, and the position of the upper slot edge 71B can be adjusted by other means, for example, by changing the fixing position of the second rail portion 7B relative to the third rail portion. Mode 2

[0111] An optical classifier of embodiment 2 of the present invention differs from the optical classifier of embodiment 1 mentioned above in that the first trough portion 7A is fixed to the classifier in a vertically sliding manner along the downward flow direction of the grains. Example 4

[0112] In embodiment 2 of the present invention, the first trough portion 7A can be fixed to the classifier in a sliding manner vertically along the downward grain flow direction. Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 35 / 93 29 / 35

[0113] Furthermore, the slit width of the optical detection slit 71 can be adjusted by adjusting the position of the lower edge of the slit 71A by sliding the first trough portion 7A in the classifier and thus adjusting the vertical position of the first trough portion 7A.

[0114] In this document, the classifier portion to which the first trough portion 7A is attached includes, for example, a classifier body structure, as well as any classifier component to which the first trough portion 7A can be attached directly or indirectly, such as the discharge hopper.

[0115] In the example mentioned above, the slit width of the optical detection slit 71 is adjusted by sliding the first trough portion 7A in the classifier and thus adjusting the vertical position of the first trough portion 7A. However, the present invention is not limited to such a method. For example, the first trough portion 7A can be configured to be attachable and detachable from the classifier with screws and the like, and the slit width can be adjusted by other means, for example, by changing the fixing position of the first trough portion 7A relative to the classifier. Example 5

[0116] In Embodiment 2 of the present invention, the second trough portion 7B can be attached to the classifier in a vertically sliding manner along the downward grain flow direction as in Embodiment 1 described above.

[0117] In addition, the slit width of the optical detection slit 71 can be adjusted by adjusting the position of the upper edge of the slit 71B. Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, page 36 / 93 30 / 35 sliding the second section of trough 7B into the classifier and thus adjusting the vertical position of the second section of trough.

[0118] In the present document, the classifier to which the second trough portion 7B is attached includes, for example, a classifier body structure, as well as any classifier component to which the second trough portion 7B can be attached directly or indirectly.

[0119] In the example mentioned above, the slit width of the optical detection slit 71 is adjusted by sliding the second trough portion 7B in the classifier and thus adjusting the vertical position of the second trough portion 7B. However, the present invention is not limited to such a method. For example, the second trough portion 7B can be configured to be attachable and detachable from the classifier with screws and the like, and the slit width can be adjusted by other means, for example, by changing the fixing position of the second trough portion 7B relative to the classifier. Example 6

[0120] In embodiment 2 of the present invention, the trough 7 may include a third trough portion that is located on the upstream side of the second trough portion 7B and includes a downward flow face parallel along the downward flow direction of the grains.

[0121] In such a case, the second trough section 7B can be attached to the third trough section in a vertically sliding manner along the downward grain flow direction.

[0122] In addition, for the optical detection slot 71, the vertical position of the second rail portion 7B is adjusted by sliding the second portion Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 37 / 93 31 / 35 of rail 7B on the third rail section. Consequently, the slot width can be adjusted as in Example 5.

[0123] In the example mentioned above, the slit width of the optical detection slit 71 is adjusted by sliding the second trough portion 7B into the third trough portion and thus adjusting the vertical position of the second trough portion 7B. However, the present invention is not limited to such a method. For example, the second trough portion 7B can be configured to be attachable and detachable from the third trough portion with screws and the like, and the slit width can be adjusted by other means, for example, by changing the fixing position of the second trough portion 7B relative to the third trough portion.

[0124] In the optical classifier of each embodiment of the present invention, the chute 7 is provided with the optical detection slit 71 in a direction orthogonal to the downward flow direction of grains. In the optical detection devices 41a and 41b, the illumination means 412a and 412b illuminate grains flowing downwards in the chute 7 at the position where the optical detection slit 71 is provided as the detection position O for the grains. Furthermore, the grains illuminated by the illumination means 412a and 412b are visualized by the imaging means 411a and 411b. Thus, unlike the conventional optical classifier that detects grains falling from the lower end of the chute, it is possible to detect grains that always flow downwards in the chute along a constant path.

[0125] According to such configuration, the optical classifier of each embodiment of the present invention can detect defective grains, matter Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 38 / 93 32 / 35 strange and similar patterns with greater accuracy than conventional optical sorters. Thus, classification performance can be improved.

[0126] In the optical classifier of each embodiment of the present invention, since the slit width of the optical detection slit 71 is adjustable, the slit width can be adjusted to a width suitable for the grain size.

[0127] According to this configuration, the optical classifier of each embodiment of the present invention can guarantee the amount of light necessary to detect grains as raw material even when the grain size is altered. This avoids classification failures due to insufficient light.

[0128] In each embodiment of the present invention, the optical detection devices 41a and 41b can be provided only on the upper or lower face of the channel.

[0129] Furthermore, in each embodiment of the present invention, the illumination means 412a and 412b of the optical detection devices 41a and 41b can be provided only on the upstream side or on the downstream side of the detection position O.

[0130] In each embodiment of the present invention, the optical sorting unit 4 is adapted to remove defective grains, but it can also remove non-defective grains so as to separate the grains into non-defective grains and defective grains. In addition, the optical sorting unit 4 can also remove foreign matter mixed in the raw material, so as to separate the raw material into grains and foreign matter. Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, page 39 / 93 33 / 35

[0131] Each embodiment of the present invention illustrated an example in which the ejector device 43 includes the ejector nozzle 431 and removes the grains by air jet from it. However, the present invention is not limited to such a method, and it is possible to provide a configuration in which the grains are removed by suction using a suction apparatus, or a configuration in which the grains are removed by a pre-determined mechanically operated element.

[0132] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to them, and the configuration of the present invention may be altered as appropriate within the scope of the invention. Industrial applicability

[0133] The optical classifier of the present invention can detect defective grains, foreign matter and the like with high precision and therefore can have improved classification performance. In addition, the optical classifier of the present invention can ensure the amount of light needed to detect grains even when the grain size is altered; this avoids classification failures due to insufficient light. List of numerical references Optical classifier Grain supply unit Vibration feeder Gutter Optical detection slit Classification removal slot Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 40 / 93 34 / 35 Optical classification unit 41a, 41b Optical detection device 411a, 411b Imaging methods 412a, 412b Lighting media Determination device Ejector device 431 Ejector nozzle Discharge hopper Non-defective grain discharge passage (first discharge portion) Defective grain discharge passage (second discharge section) Downward flow track 7A First section of gutter 7B Second section of gutter Optical detection slit 71A Lower slot edge 71B Top slot edge Classification removal slot Long hole Screw Pig Scale 831 Ejector nozzle G Grains Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 41 / 93 35 / 35 Detection Position Xa, Xb Optical axis connecting the imaging media and detection position O Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 42 / 93

Claims

1 / 8 CLAIMS 1. Optical classifier (1) comprising: a chute (3) arranged in an inclined form to allow the classification targets to flow down; optical detection means (41a, 41b) for detecting the classification targets at a detection position (O); and ejector means (43) for classifying and removing classification targets based on a result of detection by optical detection means (41a, 41b), characterized in that: the optical detection means (41a, 41b) include illumination means (412a, 412b) to illuminate the detection position (O), and imaging means (411a, 411b) to image the classification targets at the detection position (O), the chute (3, 7) is provided with an optical detection slit (31, 71) in a direction orthogonal to a downward flow direction of the classification targets, a slit width of the optical detection slit (31, 71) is adjustable and the optical detection means (41a,41b) illuminate the classification targets flowing down the channel (3, 7) with the illumination means (412a, 412b) in a position where the optical detection slit (31, 71) is provided as the detection position (O), and images the classification targets Petition 870260060277, dated 19 / 06 / 2026, page. 43 / 93 2 / 8 illuminated by illumination means (412a, 412b) with imaging means (411a, 411b), wherein: the trough (3, 7) includes a first trough portion (7A) and a second trough portion (7B) located on an upstream side of the first trough portion (7A), the first trough portion (7A) is provided with a scale (76) which has the lower slit edge (71A) as a base point, so that the scale (76) extends to an upstream side along the downward flow direction of the classification targets, and the slit width of the optical detection slit (71) is adjustable with reference to the scale (76).

2. Optical classifier (1), according to claim 1, characterized in that: the trough (3, 7) includes a first trough portion (7A) and a second trough portion (7B) located on an upstream side of the first trough portion (7A), the first trough portion (7A) and the second trough portion (7B) have downflow faces parallel along the downflow direction of the classification targets, the optical detection slit (71) is formed between the first trough portion (7A) and the second trough portion (7B) such that a lower slit edge (71A) is formed by the first trough portion (7A) and an upper slit edge (71B) is formed by the second trough portion (7B), Petition 870260060277, dated 19 / 06 / 2026, p.44 / 93 3 / 8 the first trough portion (7A) and / or the second trough portion (7B) are provided such that a vertical position of the first trough portion (7A) and / or the second trough portion (7B) along the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable, and the slit width of the optical detection slit (71) is adjustable by adjusting the vertical position of the first trough portion (7A) and / or the second trough portion (7B).

3. Optical classifier (1), according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: the trough (3, 7) includes a first trough portion (7A) and a second trough portion (7B) located on an upstream side of the first trough portion (7A), the first trough portion (7A) and the second trough portion (7B) have downward flow faces parallel along the downward flow direction of the classification targets, the optical detection slit (71) is formed between the first trough portion (7A) and the second trough portion (7B) such that a lower slit edge (71A) is formed by the first trough portion (7A) and an upper slit edge (71B) is formed by the second trough portion (7B), the first trough portion (7A) is fixed to the second trough portion (7B) such that a vertical position of the first trough portion (7A) along so that the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable,and the slit width of the optical detection slit (71) is adjustable by adjusting the vertical position of the first trough portion (7A). Petition 870260060277, dated 19 / 06 / 2026, p. 45 / 93 4 / 8, 4. Optical classifier (1), according to claim 3, characterized in that: the first trough portion (7A) is fixed to the second trough portion (7B) in a vertically sliding manner along the downward flow direction of the classification targets, and the slit width of the optical detection slit (71) is adjustable by sliding the first trough portion (7A) and thus adjusting the vertical position of the first trough portion (7A).

5. Optical classifier (1), according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that: the second trough portion (7B) is fixed to the classifier (1) such that a vertical position of the second trough portion (7B) along the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable, and a position of the upper slit edge (71B) of the optical detection slit (71) is adjustable by adjusting the vertical position of the second trough portion (7B).

6. Optical classifier (1), according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that: the trough (3, 7) further includes a third trough portion located on an upstream side of the second trough portion (7B), the second trough portion (7B) and the third trough portion have downflow faces parallel along the downflow direction of the classification targets, the second trough portion (7B) is fixed to the third trough portion such that a vertical position of the second trough portion (7B) along the downflow direction of the classification targets is adjustable, and a position of the upper slit edge (71B) of the optical detection slit (71) is adjustable by adjusting the vertical position of the second trough portion (7B).

7. Optical classifier (1), according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: the trough (3, 7) includes a first trough portion (7A) and a second trough portion (7B) located on an upstream side of the first trough portion (7A), the first trough portion (7A) and the second trough portion (7B) have downflow faces parallel along the downflow direction of the classification targets, the optical detection slit (71) is formed between the first trough portion (7A) and the second trough portion (7B) such that a lower slit edge (71A) is formed by the first trough portion (7A) and an upper slit edge (71B) is formed by the second trough portion (7B),the first trough portion (7A) is fixed to the classifier (1) so that a vertical position of the first trough portion (7A) along the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable and / or the second trough portion (7B) is fixed to the classifier (1) so that a vertical position of the second trough portion (7B) along the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable and Petition 870260060277, dated 19 / 06 / 2026, page 47 / 93 6 / 8 the slit width of the optical detection slit (71) is adjustable by adjusting the vertical position of the first trough portion (7A) and / or adjusting the vertical position of the second trough portion (7B).

8. Optical classifier (1), according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: the trough (3, 7) includes a first trough portion (7A) and a second trough portion (7B) located on an upstream side of the first trough portion (7A), the first trough portion (7A) and the second trough portion (7B) have downward flow faces parallel along the downward flow direction of the classification targets, the optical detection slit (71) is formed between the first trough portion (7A) and the second trough portion (7B) such that a lower slit edge (71A) is formed by the first trough portion (7A) and an upper slit edge (71B) is formed by the second trough portion (7B), the trough (3, 7) further includes a third trough portion located on an upstream side of the second trough portion (7B),The second trough portion (7B) and the third trough portion have downward flow faces parallel along the downward flow direction of the classification targets, the first trough portion (7A) is fixed to the classifier (1) so that a vertical position of the first trough portion (7A) along the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable, and / or the second trough portion (7B) is fixed to the third trough portion so that a vertical position of the second trough portion (7B) along the downward flow direction of the classification targets is adjustable, and the slit width of the optical detection slit (71) is adjustable by adjusting the vertical position of the first trough portion (7A) and / or adjusting the vertical position of the second trough portion (7B).

9. Optical classifier (1), according to any one of claims 2 to 8, characterized in that the parallel downflow faces of the first trough portion (7A) and the second trough portion (7B) are provided with a step such that the downflow face of the first trough portion (7A) is located below the downflow face of the second trough portion (7B).

10. Optical classifier (1), according to any one of claims 2 to 9, characterized in that: the ejector means (43) include an ejector nozzle (431, 831) that selectively blows air from a plurality of nozzle orifices, the first trough portion (7A) is provided with a classification removal slot (32, 72) on a downstream side of the optical detection slot (31, 71) in a direction orthogonal to the downward flow direction of the classification targets, and the ejector nozzle (831) is disposed on a side of the lower face of the first trough portion (7A) such that one end of the nozzle tip faces the classification removal slot (72) and removes the classification targets flowing down in the first trough portion (7A) by blowing air to a side of the upper face of the trough (3, 7). Petition 870260060277, dated 06 / 19 / 2026, p. 49 / 93 8 / 8 11. Optical classifier (1), according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that: the optical detection means (41a, 41b) are provided on one side of the upper face and / or on one side of the lower face of the trough (3, 7), and the classification targets flowing down the trough (3, 7) are illuminated by the illumination means (412a, 412b) on the side of the upper face and / or on the side of the lower face of the trough (3, 7), and the classification targets illuminated by the illumination means (412a, 412b) are visualized by the imaging means (411a, 411b) on the side of the upper face and / or the lower face of the trough (3, 7). Petition 870260060277, dated 19 / 06 / 2026, p. 50 / 93

Images