Article sorting system and method

Abstract

This invention discloses an item sorting system and method. The system includes a diversion device, a transmission device, a base plate, an identification device, a trapezoidal groove, a stacking groove, and a storage container. Multiple separator boxes are mounted on the transmission bar of the transmission device. The end of the diversion device is connected to the separator boxes. The base plate is attached to the bottom of the separator boxes at a preset distance, and multiple openable and closable baffles are mounted on the base plate. The identification device is located above the transmission device. The trapezoidal groove is located below the movable baffles. The stacking groove is located at the end of the transmission device. This invention sequentially transports a large number of items to be sorted to the diversion device, causing them to fall one by one into the separator boxes of the transmission device. Based on the identification results, the items are accurately sorted into the corresponding trapezoidal grooves. The stacking groove returns unsorted items for further sorting, replacing manual operation and automatically sorting various types of items into designated storage containers. This allows for highly efficient and accurate intelligent automatic sorting of items, improving sorting efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of item sorting technology, and more particularly to an item sorting system and method. Background Technology

[0002] With the country's increasing emphasis on the logistics industry, various automated sorting equipment and technologies have emerged, and a wide range of industrial equipment can now replace manual labor in relatively low-end, low-complexity, and repetitive industrial operations.

[0003] In industrial sorting of different items, traditional sorting machines require workers to interact with the sorting robot or the remote control device controlling it multiple times, manually inputting new item sorting information or actions. This not only affects sorting efficiency but also increases the risk of errors due to the cumbersome operation, impacting sorting accuracy. Furthermore, since the workload of sorting items is generally quite large, combining manual operation with this method is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and inefficient.

[0004] The above content is only used to help understand the technical solution of the present invention and does not represent an admission that the above content is prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The main objective of this invention is to provide an item sorting system and method, which aims to solve the technical problems of the cumbersome and inefficient sorting process of existing sorting machines.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides an item sorting system, comprising: a diversion device, a transmission device, a base plate, an identification device, a trapezoidal groove, a stacking groove, and a storage container; the transmission device has multiple separator boxes mounted on its transmission strip; the end of the diversion device is connected to the separator boxes; the base plate is abutted against the bottom of the separator boxes at a predetermined distance, and the base plate has multiple openable and closable baffles; the identification device is located above the transmission device; the trapezoidal groove is located below the baffles; and the stacking groove is located below the end of the transmission device.

[0007] The diversion device is used to divert the items to be sorted and then transport the items to be sorted into the separator box of the transmission device.

[0008] The transmission device is used to move the separator box and the items to be sorted in the separator box on the base plate via the transmission bar;

[0009] The identification device is used to identify the items to be sorted in the separator box when the separator box moves below the identification device, determine the item type of the items to be sorted based on the identification result, and open the corresponding movable baffle when the items to be sorted move above the trapezoidal groove corresponding to the item type, so that the items to be sorted fall into the corresponding trapezoidal groove.

[0010] The trapezoidal groove is used to transport items of the same type to be sorted into corresponding storage containers;

[0011] The stacking trough is used to store unsorted items that have moved to the end of the transmission device, and to return the unsorted items that have moved to the end of the transmission device to the diversion device for re-diversion.

[0012] Optionally, the item sorting system further includes a solenoid valve and a main control device;

[0013] The solenoid valve's mechanical switch is connected to the movable baffle, and the control terminal of the main control device is connected to the input terminal of the solenoid valve.

[0014] The main control device is used to determine the trapezoidal groove corresponding to the item to be sorted according to the item type, and to send an opening signal to the solenoid valve when the item to be sorted moves above the corresponding trapezoidal groove;

[0015] The solenoid valve is used to open the corresponding movable baffle according to the opening signal, so that the item to be sorted falls into the corresponding trapezoidal groove.

[0016] Optionally, the item sorting system may also include an early warning device;

[0017] The early warning device is used to monitor the storage status of the storage container and, when the storage status reaches a preset state, issue an early warning signal to notify the management personnel to handle the situation in a timely manner.

[0018] The early warning device is also used to generate a full signal and send the full signal to the main control device when the storage state reaches a full state.

[0019] The main control device is also used to pause the sorting operation when it receives the full signal.

[0020] Optionally, the item sorting system further includes a feeding device;

[0021] The feeding device is connected to the diversion device. The conveyor belt of the feeding device is provided with a preset number of pits. The pits are distributed in multiple parallel columns at a certain distance on the conveyor belt of the feeding device. The pits allow items of preset size to be sorted to enter. The conveyor belt of the feeding device enters the diversion device and operates in a single-line state.

[0022] The feeding device is used to shake at a preset frequency when it receives items to be sorted, so that the items to be sorted enter the recess.

[0023] The diversion device is also used to divert the items to be sorted by the feeding device and transport the diverted items to the separator box of the transmission device.

[0024] Optionally, the transmission device includes a transmission bar, a drive wheel, and a driven guide wheel;

[0025] The drive wheel is used to drive the transmission bar to rotate, and at the connection between the drive wheel and the transmission bar, the angle is changed to make part of the transmission bar concave, so that the transmission bar rotates cyclically. The driven guide wheel guides the transmission bar to rotate along a fixed route.

[0026] The transmission bar is used to move the separator box and the items to be sorted in the separator box on the base plate.

[0027] Optionally, the adjacent sides of each of the separator boxes are inclined at a preset angle. When the transmission bar drives the separator box to move on the base plate, the adjacent sides of the adjacent separator boxes are connected in the form of triangular prisms, so that items of preset size to be sorted can enter the separator box without stopping at the junction.

[0028] Optionally, the item sorting system further includes lighting equipment; the lighting equipment is located within a preset range of the identification device;

[0029] The lighting equipment is used to provide basically fixed lighting conditions for the camera of the recognition device to avoid the influence of inconsistent ambient light when sorting items.

[0030] Furthermore, to achieve the above objectives, the present invention also proposes an item sorting method, which is applied to an item sorting system. The system includes: a diversion device, a transmission device, a base plate, an identification device, a trapezoidal groove, a stacking groove, and a storage container. Multiple separator boxes are provided on the transmission bar of the transmission device. The end of the diversion device is connected to the separator boxes. The base plate is attached to the lower part of the separator boxes at a predetermined distance, and multiple openable and closable baffles are provided on the base plate. The identification device is located above the transmission device. The trapezoidal groove is located below the movable baffles. The stacking groove is located below the end of the transmission device. The method includes:

[0031] After the diversion device diverts the items to be sorted, it transports the items to be sorted into the separator box of the transmission device.

[0032] The transmission device drives the separator box and the items to be sorted in the separator box to move on the base plate via the transmission bar;

[0033] When the separator box moves below the separator box, the identification device identifies the items to be sorted in the separator box, determines the item type of the items to be sorted based on the identification result, and opens the corresponding movable baffle when the items to be sorted move above the trapezoidal groove corresponding to the item type, so that the items to be sorted fall into the corresponding trapezoidal groove.

[0034] The trapezoidal trough transports items of the same type to the corresponding storage containers;

[0035] The stacking trough stores unsorted items that have moved to the end of the transmission device and returns them to the diversion device for re-diversion.

[0036] Optionally, the item sorting system further includes a solenoid valve and a main control device; the mechanical switch of the solenoid valve is connected to the movable baffle, and the control terminal of the main control device is connected to the input terminal of the solenoid valve; the step of opening the corresponding movable baffle when the item to be sorted moves above the trapezoidal groove corresponding to the item type, so that the item to be sorted falls into the corresponding trapezoidal groove, includes:

[0037] The main control device determines the trapezoidal slot corresponding to the item to be sorted according to the item type, and sends an opening signal to the solenoid valve when the item to be sorted moves above the corresponding trapezoidal slot;

[0038] The solenoid valve opens the corresponding movable baffle according to the opening signal, so that the item to be sorted falls into the corresponding trapezoidal groove.

[0039] Optionally, the item sorting system further includes an early warning device; after the step of the trapezoidal trough conveying the same type of items to be sorted to the corresponding storage container, the system further includes:

[0040] The early warning device monitors the storage status of the storage container and issues an early warning signal to notify the management personnel to handle the situation in a timely manner when the storage status reaches a preset state.

[0041] When the storage state reaches the full state, the early warning device generates a full signal and sends the full signal to the main control device.

[0042] When the main control device receives the full signal, it suspends the sorting operation.

[0043] This invention provides an item sorting system, comprising a diversion device, a transmission device, a base plate, an identification device, a trapezoidal groove, a stacking groove, and a storage container; the transmission device has multiple separator boxes mounted on its transmission bar; the end of the diversion device is connected to the separator boxes; the base plate is abutted against the bottom of the separator boxes at a predetermined distance, and the base plate has multiple openable and closable baffles; the identification device is positioned above the transmission device; the trapezoidal groove is positioned below the movable baffles; the stacking groove is positioned below the end of the transmission device; the diversion device is used to divert the items to be sorted and then transport them to the separator boxes of the transmission device; the transmission device is used to transmit the items through the transmission bar... The separator box and the items to be sorted in the separator box are moved on the base plate. The identification device is used to identify the items to be sorted in the separator box when the separator box moves below the identification device, determine the item type of the items to be sorted according to the identification result, and open the corresponding movable baffle when the items to be sorted move above the trapezoidal groove corresponding to the item type, so that the items to be sorted fall into the corresponding trapezoidal groove. The trapezoidal groove is used to transport the items to be sorted of the same type to the corresponding storage container. The stacking groove is used to store the unsorted items that have moved to the end of the transmission device and to return the unsorted items that have moved to the end of the transmission device to the diversion device for re-diversion. This invention delivers a large number of items to be sorted to a sorting device, whereby the items fall one by one into the separator box of the transmission device. Based on the identification results, the items are accurately sorted into trapezoidal troughs. The stacking trough then returns unsorted items for further sorting, replacing manual operation. This automatically sorts various types of items into designated storage containers, thereby enabling intelligent and automatic sorting of items with high efficiency and accuracy, and improving sorting efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 2 This is a structural block diagram of the second embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the process for color recognition of items to be sorted in the second embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 4 This is an HSV color space diagram for color recognition of items to be sorted in the second embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a scenario where shape recognition is performed on the items to be sorted in the second embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the sorting execution process in the second embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure between the feeding device and the diversion device in the third embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the transmission device in the third embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the separator box in the third embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the first embodiment of the item sorting method of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the second embodiment of the item sorting method of the present invention.

[0055] The realization of the objective, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0056] It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0057] This invention provides an item sorting system, referring to... Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention.

[0058] In this embodiment, as shown in the figure, the item sorting system includes: a diversion device 10, a transmission device 20, a base plate 30, an identification device 40, a trapezoidal groove 50, a stacking groove 60, and a storage container 51; the transmission device 20 has multiple separator boxes on its transmission bar; the end of the diversion device 10 is connected to the separator boxes; the base plate 30 is attached to the bottom of the separator boxes at a preset distance, and the base plate 30 has multiple openable and closable baffles; the identification device 40 is located above the transmission device 20; the trapezoidal groove 50 is located below the movable baffles; and the stacking groove 60 is located below the end of the transmission device 30.

[0059] The diversion device 10 is used to divert the items to be sorted and then transport the items to be sorted into the separator box of the transmission device 20.

[0060] It should be noted that a sorting device is used to divert a large number of items to be sorted into a single, continuous belt for sorting, thereby improving sorting accuracy and efficiency. For example, such as... Figure 1 The diversion device shown can consist of a diversion trough and a conveyor belt. Items to be sorted are diverted by the diversion device under the conveyor belt, and each diversion trough transports the items to be sorted to the transmission device for sorting. Furthermore, a certain number of recesses can be set on the conveyor belt of the diversion device to allow the items to be sorted to enter the recesses, so that the sorting process can proceed in an orderly manner. This embodiment does not impose any limitations on this.

[0061] It is understood that the items to be sorted are the items that are being sorted. In industrial applications, this could include items such as pebbles, ores, or packages. This embodiment does not limit this. The size and specifications of each device in the item sorting system can be adaptively adjusted according to the different specifications and volumes of the items to be sorted. This embodiment does not limit this as well.

[0062] The transmission device 20 is used to drive the separator box and the items to be sorted in the separator box to move on the base plate 30 via the transmission bar;

[0063] It should be noted that the transmission device is a device used to transport items to be sorted. For example, such as... Figure 1 The transmission device shown can consist of a transmission bar, a drive wheel, and a driven guide wheel. The drive wheel rotates to drive the transmission bar, and adjacent to the transmission bar are separator boxes. When the sorting device conveys the items to be sorted to the transmission device, the items fall one by one into the separator boxes. At this time, the transmission bar pushes the separator boxes and the items to be sorted in the separator boxes to move. The transmission bar can be a transmission chain or a transmission belt; this embodiment does not limit this.

[0064] It's important to note that the transmission device differs from a traditional conveyor belt, where items move along the belt. In this embodiment, a fixed base plate is installed beneath the transmission device, with a predetermined distance (e.g., 1 cm or a few millimeters) between the base plate and the separator box to prevent friction damage from excessive close proximity. The separator box is a four-sided box without a top or bottom surface. The absence of a top surface facilitates the individual items falling into the separator box and allows for comprehensive identification by the recognition device. The absence of a bottom surface allows items to fall onto the base plate. In actual implementation, when the sorting device delivers the items to the transmission device, they fall one by one into the separator box. At this point, gears rotate, driving a transmission bar. The transmission bar moves the separator box's frame, propelling the items on the base plate.

[0065] It should be noted that the base plate is provided with openable and closable movable baffles at certain intervals. The opening and closing of the movable baffles can be controlled by solenoid valves. The number of movable baffles on the base plate can be set according to the actual situation, and this embodiment does not limit this.

[0066] Understandably, the transmission device and the diverter device are compatible; the diverter device has several rows of diverters, meaning the transmission device has a corresponding number of rows, for example... Figure 1 The three-column drive system can also be four-column, five-column, etc. The number of drive systems can be set according to the actual sorting situation. This embodiment does not limit this.

[0067] The identification device 40 is used to identify the items to be sorted in the separator box when the separator box moves below the identification device 40, determine the item type of the items to be sorted according to the identification result, and open the corresponding movable baffle when the items to be sorted move above the trapezoidal groove 50 corresponding to the item type, so that the items to be sorted fall into the corresponding trapezoidal groove 50.

[0068] The trapezoidal trough 50 is used to transport the same type of items to be sorted to the corresponding storage container 51.

[0069] It should be noted that the identification device is a device for identifying items to be sorted, and can identify parameters such as color, shape, and size, such as a camera. This embodiment does not limit this. The item type is the type of item to be sorted, such as color or shape.

[0070] Understandably, the trapezoidal trough is a device used to transport sorted items of the same type together. A storage container can be installed at the end of the trough to store these items. It should be noted that the number of trapezoidal troughs can be set according to the type and quantity of items to be sorted; this embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this. Taking the sorting of pebbles as an example, pebble sorting is generally based on color, with common colors being black, white, red, yellow, and mixed colors. In this case, five rows of trapezoidal troughs can be set up to sort the pebbles by color.

[0071] It should be noted that the position and number of trapezoidal grooves correspond to the movable baffles of the base plate, such as... Figure 1 The trapezoidal slot shown is positioned below the movable baffle. In the specific implementation, the separator pushes the items to be sorted along the base plate. When the items move below the identification device, the identification device identifies the items in the separator and determines the item type based on the identification result. Since different types correspond to different trapezoidal slots, and the upper part of the trapezoidal slot corresponds to the movable baffle, when the items move above the corresponding trapezoidal slot, the solenoid valve can be controlled to open the corresponding movable baffle, allowing the items to fall into the corresponding trapezoidal slot, thus completing the item sorting.

[0072] The stacking trough 60 is used to store unsorted items that have moved to the end of the transmission device, and to return the unsorted items that have moved to the end of the transmission device to the diversion device 10 for re-diversion.

[0073] Understandably, the stacking trough is a device used to gather and re-sort unsorted items. Because of the time it takes for the identification device to recognize the type of item to be sorted, or the potential time delay in the solenoid valve controlling the moving baffle, items may not fall into the trapezoidal trough in time. In this case, the unsorted items can be transported to the stacking trough, and then returned to the sorting device for further sorting.

[0074] This embodiment uses a diversion device to divert items to be sorted through multiple channels. When the items move to the end of the diversion device, they will vibrate and fall into the color-separated boxes in sequence. The boxes are not enclosed by baffles. When a box passes an identification device, the device classifies and identifies the items, such as by color or shape, to determine which trapezoidal groove the item should fall into. If the item in the box matches the type of the movable baffle, the solenoid valve opens the baffle, allowing the pebbles to fall into the trapezoidal groove. Simultaneously, it checks if the type of the next box matches the movable baffle; if so, the baffle remains open; otherwise, it closes. Some boxes containing items outside the sorting range or containing multiple different types of items will be carried to the end of the sorting system via a conveyor belt, where the items will fall into the stacking trough for re-sorting. Empty boxes will re-enter the sorting system via the conveyor belt, repeating the sorting process. In this embodiment, a large number of items to be sorted are conveyed to a sorting device, whereby the items fall one by one into the separator box of the transmission device. Based on the identification results, the items to be sorted are accurately sorted into trapezoidal troughs. The stacking trough then returns the unsorted items for re-sorting, replacing manual operation. This automatically sorts various types of items to be sorted into designated storage containers, thereby enabling intelligent and automatic sorting of items with high efficiency and accuracy, and improving sorting efficiency.

[0075] Based on the first embodiment described above, a second embodiment is proposed. In this embodiment, considering the control of the movable baffle, refer to... Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a structural block diagram of a second embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention. The item sorting system further includes a solenoid valve 31 and a main control device 01.

[0076] The mechanical switch of the solenoid valve 31 is connected to the movable baffle, and the control terminal of the main control device 01 is connected to the input terminal of the solenoid valve 31.

[0077] The main control device 01 is used to determine the trapezoidal groove 50 corresponding to the item to be sorted according to the item type, and to send an opening signal to the solenoid valve 31 when the item to be sorted moves above the corresponding trapezoidal groove 50.

[0078] The solenoid valve 31 is used to open the corresponding movable baffle according to the opening signal, so that the item to be sorted falls into the corresponding trapezoidal groove 50.

[0079] It should be noted that the main control unit is the central control unit of the sorting system. It can control the start or stop of the sorting system, as well as the opening and closing of the movable baffles. The solenoid valve is an electronic control device that controls the opening and closing of the movable baffles on the base plate. Under the control of the main control unit, it can automatically open the movable baffles to sort the items.

[0080] In its implementation, when an item to be sorted moves below the identification device, the device identifies the item in the separator and sends the identification result to the main control device. The main control device determines the item type based on the identification result and identifies the corresponding trapezoidal slot. When the item moves above the corresponding trapezoidal slot, it controls a solenoid valve to open the corresponding movable baffle, allowing the item to fall into the slot, thus accurately completing the sorting. The identification device uses a visual positioning system to identify and match the features of the items to be sorted. It is characterized by high speed, large information capacity, and multiple functions, enabling the classification and screening of a large number of items in a short time, reducing manual intervention and potential error rates. Furthermore, individual identification significantly improves accuracy; combined with the transmission design of the drive system, it enables cyclic sorting, improving work efficiency and saving time and labor costs.

[0081] Furthermore, considering the storage status of similar items to be sorted, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the item sorting system in this embodiment also includes an early warning device 02; the early warning device 02 is used to monitor the storage status of the storage container 51, and when the storage status reaches a preset state, it issues an early warning signal to notify the management personnel to handle it in time; the early warning device 02 is also used to generate a full signal and send the full signal to the main control device 01 when the storage status reaches a full state; the main control device 01 is also used to suspend the sorting operation when it receives the full signal.

[0082] It should be noted that the warning device is used to issue an alert when there is sufficient storage of similar items to be sorted. The preset state is the state of the storage container. When the storage container is about to be full, for example, when the storage container is three-quarters full, an alert signal can be issued to remind staff to promptly collect the items in the container to prevent overflow.

[0083] In practice, the early warning device monitors the storage status of the storage container in real time. When the storage container is about to be full, for example, when the storage container is three-quarters full, it issues an early warning signal to remind staff to collect the items in the container in time to prevent overflow. If the staff does not handle it in time, a full signal is sent to the main control device when the storage container is full. When the main control device receives the full signal, it controls the sorting system to suspend the sorting work, making the machine more intelligent and thus further improving the level and capacity of sorting.

[0084] For ease of understanding, the specific process of the identification device identifying pebbles is used as an example, but this does not limit the scope of this solution. (Reference) Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the color recognition process for items to be sorted in the second embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention. First, a corresponding recognition model needs to be trained. The training process requires learning object features to facilitate rapid recognition when acquiring the original captured image. After training the model, the acquired original image is converted into an RGB image, then Gaussian filtering is applied to the RGB image, followed by Canny edge detection to improve the resolution of the object to be identified in the image. Since the Canny edge detection operator is used to extract the edges of the detected object for object localization, the resulting image is a single-pixel image. Furthermore, some noise still exists in areas significantly affected by lighting. Further noise removal using threshold area processing can be performed to obtain more accurate image information. From this, the position of the object's center relative to the entire image is extracted, obtaining the image contour. Next, the pixel values ​​of the original image are extracted and transformed using the HSV color space. In this color space, H represents chroma, S represents saturation, and V represents brightness. Compared to RGB format images, the HSV space can clearly display the degree of color difference, which is very convenient for color recognition and improves the recognition rate. Finally, the trained model is used for recognition, thereby quickly obtaining information on the color and pattern of the pebbles and sorting them according to their color and pattern.

[0085] The specific process of color recognition is as follows. In image color recognition, the first step is to perform Gaussian filtering on the image. Gaussian filtering primarily removes noise from the image. The main steps of filtering are: first, move the relevant Gaussian kernel so that it is directly above the image pixels; then, convolve the image's pixel values ​​with the Gaussian kernel; finally, the output is the filtered image. The image after Gaussian filtering has significantly less noise. Next, the image is converted from RGB format to HSV format. RGB colors are composed of red, green, and blue colors in different proportions, but the HSV color space is more suitable for color recognition. (Refer to...) Figure 4 , Figure 4This is an HSV color space diagram for color recognition of items to be sorted in the second embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention. As shown in the figure, in HSV, H represents hue, S (Satuation) represents saturation, and V (Value) represents brightness. Hue (H) is measured in degrees, ranging from 0° to 360°, counted counterclockwise starting from red. For several specific colors, red is 0°, yellow is 60°, green is 120°, cyan is 180°, blue is 240°, and magenta is 300°. Saturation (S) is a number from 0 to 1; the higher the value, the more saturated the color. Black represents brightness of 0.0, and white represents brightness of 1.0. Brightness (V) ranges from 0 to 255, from dark to light. In the HSV color space, color recognition mainly involves comparing the set color's H hue with the color captured by the camera, setting a threshold, and identifying colors within this threshold.

[0086] Shape recognition can also be performed on objects. Shape recognition first requires contour recognition, primarily using the Canny edge detection algorithm to extract the object's approximate outline. For circle recognition, Hough circle detection is used. These two algorithms together identify the object's shape. The Canny edge detection algorithm enhances the visibility of image contours, highlighting them. Its main processes include smoothing image noise using Gaussian filtering, finding the strongest gradient, eliminating errors using non-maximum suppression, applying bilateral thresholding to detect potential boundaries, and finally tracking the boundaries using hysteresis. The Hough circle detection process mainly involves three steps: edge-preserving filtering, converting the image to grayscale, and finally using Hough circle detection to detect spheres. Figure 5 , Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a scenario of shape recognition for items to be sorted in the second embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention. In the pebble sorting process, the target object shapes are relatively simple, requiring only the separation of circles and ellipses. The sorting function can utilize a neural network trained to perform shape separation. The specific steps are: after the image size is changed to a fixed size, it is fed into a convolutional neural network for training, and finally, the trained neural network is used for object shape recognition. After training, the neural network of this system can also recognize ores.

[0087] For ease of understanding, the method of sorting pebbles is used as an example, but it does not limit the scope of this method. (Reference) Figure 6 , Figure 6This is a flowchart illustrating the sorting process in the second embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention. First, the camera acquires an image. Then, the recognition device identifies the pebbles, recognizing their color and pattern. Next, the recognition information is sent to the main controller. The main controller, based on the encoder's measurement of the chain's movement speed, determines whether the color of the movable baffle corresponds perfectly with the color of the approaching pebble. If so, it controls the solenoid valve to open the baffle based on the pebble's color information and the speed information fed back by the encoder. It then continues to determine whether the movable baffle corresponds perfectly with the color of the next approaching pebble. If the next approaching pebble's color also corresponds, the baffle remains open; otherwise, it closes. If the movable baffle does not perfectly correspond with the color of the approaching pebble, the baffle remains closed, and the unsorted pebbles return to the sorting trough for secondary sorting. Simultaneously, the main controller can also detect whether the pebbles in the storage container have reached a pressure threshold using a pressure sensor. If not, no operation is performed; if so, an alarm is triggered to remind staff to collect the pebbles.

[0088] In this embodiment, when the items to be sorted move below the identification device, the identification device identifies the items in the separator and sends the identification result to the main control device. The main control device determines the type of the items to be sorted based on the identification result and identifies the corresponding trapezoidal slot. When the items to be sorted move above the corresponding trapezoidal slot, the main control device controls the solenoid valve to open the corresponding movable baffle, so that the items to be sorted fall into the corresponding trapezoidal slot, thereby accurately completing the item sorting. Furthermore, an early warning device can be set up. The early warning device monitors the storage status of the storage container in real time. When the storage container is about to be full, for example, when the storage container is three-quarters full, an early warning signal is issued to remind the staff to collect the items in the container in time to prevent overflow. If the staff does not handle it in time, a full signal is sent to the main control device when the storage container is full. When the main control device receives the full signal, it controls the sorting system to suspend the sorting operation, thereby improving the automation performance of the sorting equipment. Meanwhile, the identification device can also combine AI vision technology to identify and match items to be sorted through autonomous discrimination, lock the target object through positioning function, and automatically classify and put the items to be sorted without human intervention. It can also monitor the overflow of containers, making the machine more intelligent and further improving the level and capacity of sorting.

[0089] Based on the above embodiments, this embodiment is proposed. In this embodiment, considering the orderly progress of the sorting process for items to be sorted, reference is made to... Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure between the feeding device and the diversion device in a third embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention. The item sorting system also includes a feeding device 11;

[0090] The feeding device 11 is connected to the diversion device 10. The conveyor belt of the feeding device 11 is provided with a preset number of pits. The pits are distributed in multiple parallel columns at a certain distance on the conveyor belt of the feeding device 11. The pits allow items of preset size to be sorted to enter. The conveyor belt of the feeding device 11 enters the diversion device 10 and is diverted in a single-line operation state.

[0091] The feeding device 11 is used to shake at a preset frequency when it receives the item to be sorted, so that the item to be sorted enters the recess.

[0092] The diversion device 10 is also used to divert the items to be sorted from the feeding device 11 and transport the diverted items to the separator box of the transmission device 20.

[0093] It should be noted that the feeding device is a device that arranges the items to be sorted in an orderly manner. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the feeding device has a preset number of recesses, which are distributed in multiple parallel columns at a certain distance along the conveyor belt. The size of the recesses can be set according to the actual specifications of the items to be sorted; this embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this. The specifications of the feeding device correspond to the specifications of the diversion device, and the conveyor belt of the feeding device enters the diversion device in a single-line operation. When the feeding device receives items to be sorted, it vibrates at a preset frequency to allow the items to enter the recesses, thus enabling them to fall orderly into the separator box of the transmission device for sorting.

[0094] Furthermore, considering the transmission of the drive system, refer to Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the transmission device in the third embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention; the transmission device in this embodiment includes a transmission bar 21, a drive wheel 22, and a driven guide wheel;

[0095] The drive wheel 22 is used to drive the transmission bar 21 to rotate, and changes the angle at the connection between the drive wheel 22 and the transmission bar 21 to make part of the transmission bar concave, so that the transmission bar 21 rotates cyclically, and the driven guide wheel guides the transmission bar 21 to rotate along a fixed route;

[0096] The transmission bar 21 is used to move the separator box and the items to be sorted in the separator box on the base plate 30.

[0097] It should be noted that, as Figure 8 As shown, the angle at the connection between the drive wheel and the transmission bar is changed to make part of the transmission bar concave, so that the transmission bar can circulate and drive the separator box and push the items to be sorted for sorting.

[0098] Furthermore, considering that items to be sorted can accurately fall into the separator boxes, refer to Figure 9 , Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the separator box in the third embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention. In this embodiment, the adjacent sides of each separator box are inclined at a preset angle. When the transmission bar drives the separator box to move on the base plate, the adjacent sides of the adjacent separator boxes are connected in the form of triangular prisms, so that items of preset size to be sorted can enter the separator box without stopping at the junction.

[0099] It should be noted that, as Figure 9 As shown, the adjacent sides of the adjacent dividers are connected in the form of a triangular prism, so that the items to be sorted can fall accurately into the dividers and avoid getting stuck between the boxes.

[0100] Furthermore, considering the accuracy of the identification device in identifying items to be sorted, the item sorting system in this embodiment also includes a lighting device 41; the lighting device 41 is set within a preset range of the identification device 40; the lighting device 41 is used to provide basically fixed lighting conditions for the camera of the identification device 40, so as to avoid the influence of inconsistent ambient light when sorting items.

[0101] It should be noted that lighting equipment can be installed near the identification device to provide basically fixed lighting conditions when the identification device identifies the items to be sorted, so as to avoid inconsistent ambient light when sorting items and improve the accuracy of the identification device in identifying items to be sorted.

[0102] This embodiment also includes a feeding device with a preset number of recesses. These recesses are distributed in parallel rows at a certain distance along the conveyor belt of the feeding device. The size of the recesses can be set according to the actual specifications of the items to be sorted; this embodiment does not impose any limitations on this. The specifications of the feeding device correspond to the specifications of the diversion device, and the conveyor belt of the feeding device enters the diversion device in a single-line operation. When the feeding device receives items to be sorted, it vibrates at a preset frequency to allow the items to enter the recesses, thus enabling them to fall orderly into the separator boxes of the transmission device for sorting. Furthermore, the adjacent sides of the separator boxes are connected in a triangular prism configuration, ensuring that the items to be sorted fall accurately into the separator boxes and preventing them from getting stuck between boxes. Additionally, lighting equipment can be installed near the identification device to provide relatively constant illumination conditions when the identification device identifies the items to be sorted, avoiding inconsistent ambient light during sorting and improving the accuracy of the identification device in recognizing items to be sorted.

[0103] Reference Figure 10 The present invention provides an item sorting system and an item sorting method. Figure 10This is a flowchart illustrating a first embodiment of the item sorting method of the present invention. The item sorting method is applied to an item sorting system, which includes: a diversion device, a transmission device, a base plate, an identification device, a trapezoidal groove, a stacking groove, and a storage container. Multiple separator boxes are provided on the transmission bar of the transmission device. The end of the diversion device is connected to the separator boxes. The base plate is abutted against the lower part of the separator boxes at a predetermined distance, and multiple openable and closable baffles are provided on the base plate. The identification device is located above the transmission device. The trapezoidal groove is located below the movable baffles. The stacking groove is located below the end of the transmission device. The method includes:

[0104] Step S10: After the diversion device diverts the items to be sorted, it transports the items to be sorted into the separator box of the transmission device;

[0105] It should be noted that a diversion device is used to divert a large number of items to be sorted, thereby reducing sorting pressure. For example, such as... Figure 1 The diversion device shown can consist of a diversion trough and a conveyor belt. Items to be sorted are diverted by the diversion device under the conveyor belt, and each diversion trough transports the items to be sorted to the transmission device for sorting. Furthermore, a certain number of recesses can be set on the conveyor belt of the diversion device to allow the items to be sorted to enter the recesses, so that the sorting process can proceed in an orderly manner. This embodiment does not impose any limitations on this.

[0106] It is understood that the items to be sorted are the items that are being sorted. In industrial applications, this could include items such as pebbles, ores, or packages. This embodiment does not limit this. The size and specifications of each device in the item sorting system can be adaptively adjusted according to the different specifications and volumes of the items to be sorted. This embodiment does not limit this as well.

[0107] Step S20: The transmission device drives the separator box and the items to be sorted in the separator box to move on the base plate via the transmission bar;

[0108] It should be noted that the transmission device is a device used to transport items to be sorted. For example, such as... Figure 1 The transmission device shown can consist of a transmission bar and gears. The transmission bar is driven by the rotation of the gears, and adjacent to the transmission bar are separator boxes. When the sorting device conveys the items to be sorted to the transmission device, the items fall one by one into the separator boxes. At this time, the transmission bar pushes the items to be sorted in the separator boxes to move. The transmission bar can be a transmission chain or a transmission belt; this embodiment does not limit this.

[0109] It's important to note that the transmission device differs from a traditional conveyor belt, where items move along the belt. In this embodiment, a fixed base plate is installed beneath the transmission device, with a predetermined distance (e.g., 1 cm or a few millimeters) between the base plate and the separator box to prevent friction damage from excessive close proximity. The separator box is a four-sided box without a top or bottom surface. The absence of a top surface facilitates the individual items falling into the separator box and allows for comprehensive identification by the recognition device. The absence of a bottom surface allows items to fall onto the base plate. In actual implementation, when the sorting device delivers the items to the transmission device, they fall one by one into the separator box. At this point, gears rotate, driving a transmission bar. The transmission bar moves the separator box's frame, propelling the items on the base plate.

[0110] It should be noted that movable baffles are provided at certain intervals on the base plate. The opening and closing of the movable baffles can be controlled by solenoid valves. The number of movable baffles on the base plate can be set according to the actual situation, and this embodiment does not limit this.

[0111] Understandably, the transmission device and the diverter device are compatible; the diverter device has several rows of diverters, meaning the transmission device has a corresponding number of rows, for example... Figure 1 The three-column drive system can also be four-column, five-column, etc. The number of drive systems can be set according to the actual sorting situation. This embodiment does not limit this.

[0112] Step S30: When the separation box moves below the identification device, the identification device identifies the items to be sorted in the separation box, determines the item type of the items to be sorted based on the identification result, and opens the corresponding movable baffle when the items to be sorted move above the trapezoidal groove corresponding to the item type, so that the items to be sorted fall into the corresponding trapezoidal groove.

[0113] Step S40: The trapezoidal trough transports the same type of items to be sorted into the corresponding storage containers.

[0114] It should be noted that the identification device is a device for identifying items to be sorted, and can identify parameters such as color, shape, and size, such as a camera. This embodiment does not limit this. The item type is the type of item to be sorted, such as color or shape.

[0115] Understandably, the trapezoidal trough is a device used to transport sorted items of the same type together. A storage container can be installed at the end of the trough to store these items. It should be noted that the number of trapezoidal troughs can be set according to the type and quantity of items to be sorted; this embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this. Taking the sorting of pebbles as an example, pebble sorting is generally based on color, with common colors being black, white, red, yellow, and mixed colors. In this case, five rows of trapezoidal troughs can be set up to sort the pebbles by color.

[0116] It should be noted that the position and number of trapezoidal grooves correspond to the movable baffles of the base plate, such as... Figure 1 The trapezoidal slot shown is positioned below the movable baffle. In the specific implementation, the separator pushes the items to be sorted along the base plate. When the items move below the identification device, the identification device identifies the items in the separator and determines the item type based on the identification result. Since different types correspond to different trapezoidal slots, and the upper part of the trapezoidal slot corresponds to the movable baffle, when the items move above the corresponding trapezoidal slot, the solenoid valve can be controlled to open the corresponding movable baffle, allowing the items to fall into the corresponding trapezoidal slot, thus completing the item sorting.

[0117] Step S50: The stacking trough stores the unsorted items that have moved to the end of the transmission device, and returns the unsorted items that have moved to the end of the transmission device to the diversion device for re-diversion.

[0118] Understandably, the stacking trough is a device used to gather and re-sort unsorted items. Because there may be a time delay in the identification device's recognition of the type of item to be sorted, or in the solenoid valve's control of the moving baffle, the items may not fall into the trapezoidal trough in time. In this case, the unsorted items can be transported to the stacking trough, and then returned to the sorting device for further sorting.

[0119] This embodiment uses a diversion device to divert items to be sorted through multiple channels. When the items move to the end of the diversion device, they will vibrate and fall into the color-separated boxes in sequence. The boxes are not enclosed by baffles. When a box passes an identification device, the device classifies and identifies the items, such as by color or shape, to determine which trapezoidal groove the item should fall into. If the item in the box matches the type of the movable baffle, the solenoid valve opens the baffle, allowing the pebbles to fall into the trapezoidal groove. Simultaneously, it checks if the type of the next box matches the movable baffle; if so, the baffle remains open; otherwise, it closes. Some boxes containing items outside the sorting range or containing multiple different types of items will be carried to the end of the sorting system via a conveyor belt, where the items will fall into the stacking trough for re-sorting. Empty boxes will re-enter the sorting system via the conveyor belt, repeating the sorting process. In this embodiment, a large number of items to be sorted are conveyed to a sorting device, whereby the items fall one by one into the separator box of the transmission device. Based on the identification results, the items to be sorted are accurately sorted into trapezoidal troughs. The stacking trough then returns the unsorted items for re-sorting, replacing manual operation. This automatically sorts various types of items to be sorted into designated storage containers, thereby enabling intelligent and automatic sorting of items with high efficiency and accuracy, and improving sorting efficiency.

[0120] Reference Figure 11 , Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the second embodiment of the item sorting method of the present invention. Based on the above... Figure 10 The illustrated embodiment presents a second embodiment of the article sorting method of the present invention.

[0121] In this embodiment, the item sorting system further includes a solenoid valve and a main control device; the mechanical switch of the solenoid valve is connected to the movable baffle, and the control terminal of the main control device is connected to the input terminal of the solenoid valve; step S30 includes:

[0122] Step S31: When the separation box moves below the identification device, the identification device identifies the items to be sorted in the separation box and determines the item type of the items to be sorted based on the identification result.

[0123] Step S32: The main control device determines the trapezoidal slot corresponding to the item to be sorted according to the item type, and sends an activation signal to the solenoid valve when the item to be sorted moves above the corresponding trapezoidal slot.

[0124] Step S33: The solenoid valve opens the corresponding movable baffle according to the opening signal, so that the item to be sorted falls into the corresponding trapezoidal groove.

[0125] It should be noted that the main control unit is the central control unit of the sorting system. It can control the start or stop of the sorting system, as well as the opening and closing of the movable baffles. The solenoid valve is an electronic control device that controls the opening and closing of the movable baffles on the base plate. Under the control of the main control unit, it can automatically open the movable baffles to sort the items.

[0126] In practical implementation, when the items to be sorted move below the identification device, the device identifies the items in the separator and sends the identification result to the main control device. The main control device determines the type of the items based on the identification result and identifies the corresponding trapezoidal slot. When the items move above the corresponding trapezoidal slot, it controls the solenoid valve to open the corresponding movable baffle, allowing the items to fall into the slot, thus accurately completing the sorting. The visual positioning system identifies and matches the features of the items to be sorted, offering high speed, large information capacity, and multiple functions. It can classify and screen a large number of items in a short time, reducing manual intervention and potential error rates. Furthermore, individual identification significantly improves accuracy; combined with the transmission design of the drive system, cyclic sorting can be achieved, improving work efficiency and saving time and labor costs.

[0127] Furthermore, considering the storage status of similar items to be sorted, the item sorting system in this embodiment also includes an early warning device; the early warning device monitors the storage status of the storage container, and when the storage status reaches a preset state, it issues an early warning signal to notify the management personnel to handle it in a timely manner; when the storage status reaches a full state, the early warning device generates a full signal and sends the full signal to the main control device; when the main control device receives the full signal, it suspends the sorting operation.

[0128] It should be noted that the warning device is used to issue an alert when there is sufficient storage of similar items to be sorted. The preset state is the state of the storage container. When the storage container is about to be full, for example, when the storage container is three-quarters full, an alert signal can be issued to remind staff to promptly collect the items in the container to prevent overflow.

[0129] In practice, the early warning device monitors the storage status of the storage container in real time. When the storage container is about to be full, for example, when the storage container is three-quarters full, it issues an early warning signal to remind staff to collect the items in the container in time to prevent overflow. If the staff does not handle it in time, a full signal is sent to the main control device when the storage container is full. When the main control device receives the full signal, it controls the sorting system to suspend the sorting work, making the machine more intelligent and thus further improving the level and capacity of sorting.

[0130] To facilitate understanding, the specific process of the recognition device identifying pebbles is used as an example, but this does not limit the scope of this solution. The specific process of color recognition is as follows. In the image color recognition process, the image first undergoes Gaussian filtering. Gaussian filtering primarily removes noise from the image. The main steps of filtering are: first, move the relevant Gaussian kernel so that it is directly above the image pixels; then, convolve the image's pixel values ​​with the Gaussian sum; the final output is the filtered image. The image after Gaussian filtering has significantly less noise. Next, the image is converted from RGB format to HSV format. RGB colors are composed of red, green, and blue colors in different proportions, but the HSV color space is more suitable for color recognition. (Refer to...) Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is an HSV color space diagram for color recognition of items to be sorted in the second embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention. As shown in the figure, in HSV, H represents hue, S (Satuation) represents saturation, and V (Value) represents brightness. Hue (H) is measured in degrees, ranging from 0° to 360°, counted counterclockwise starting from red. For several specific colors, red is 0°, yellow is 60°, green is 120°, cyan is 180°, blue is 240°, and magenta is 300°. Saturation (S) is a number from 0 to 1; the higher the value, the more saturated the color. Black represents brightness of 0.0, and white represents brightness of 1.0. Brightness (V) ranges from 0 to 255, from dark to light. In the HSV color space, color recognition mainly involves comparing the set color's H hue with the color captured by the camera, setting a threshold, and identifying colors within this threshold.

[0131] Shape recognition can also be performed on objects. Shape recognition first requires contour recognition, primarily using the Canny edge detection algorithm to extract the object's approximate outline. For circle recognition, Hough circle detection is used. These two algorithms together identify the object's shape. The Canny edge detection algorithm enhances the visibility of image contours, highlighting them. Its main processes include smoothing image noise using Gaussian filtering, finding the strongest gradient, eliminating errors using non-maximum suppression, applying bilateral thresholding to detect potential boundaries, and finally tracking the boundaries using hysteresis. The Hough circle detection process mainly involves three steps: edge-preserving filtering, converting the image to grayscale, and finally using Hough circle detection to detect spheres. Figure 5 , Figure 5This is a schematic diagram illustrating a scenario of shape recognition for items to be sorted in the second embodiment of the item sorting system of the present invention. In the pebble sorting process, the target object shapes are relatively simple, requiring only the separation of circles and ellipses. The sorting function can utilize a neural network trained to perform shape separation. The specific steps are: after the image size is changed to a fixed size, it is fed into a convolutional neural network for training, and finally, the trained neural network is used for object shape recognition. After training, the neural network of this system can also recognize ores.

[0132] For ease of understanding, this explanation uses pebble sorting as an example, but it does not limit the scope of this solution. First, a camera acquires an image. Then, a recognition device identifies the pebbles, recognizing their color and pattern. This recognition information is then sent to the main controller. The main controller uses an encoder to measure the chain speed and determines if the color of the moving baffle corresponds perfectly with the color of the approaching pebble. If so, it controls a solenoid valve to open the baffle based on the pebble's color and the speed information from the encoder. It then checks if the color of the next approaching pebble corresponds perfectly. If the next pebble's color also corresponds, the baffle remains open; otherwise, it closes. If the color of the next pebble does not correspond perfectly, the baffle remains closed. If the color of the approaching pebble does not correspond perfectly, the baffle does not open, and the unsorted pebbles return to the sorting trough for secondary sorting. Simultaneously, the main controller can also use a pressure sensor to detect if the pebble level in the storage container has reached a pressure threshold. If not, no action is taken; if so, an alarm is triggered to remind staff to collect the pebbles.

[0133] In this embodiment, when the items to be sorted move below the identification device, the identification device identifies the items in the separator and sends the identification result to the main control device. The main control device determines the type of the items to be sorted based on the identification result and identifies the corresponding trapezoidal slot. When the items to be sorted move above the corresponding trapezoidal slot, the main control device controls the solenoid valve to open the corresponding movable baffle, so that the items to be sorted fall into the corresponding trapezoidal slot, thereby accurately completing the item sorting. Furthermore, an early warning device can be set up. The early warning device monitors the storage status of the storage container in real time. When the storage container is about to be full, for example, when the storage container is three-quarters full, an early warning signal is issued to remind the staff to collect the items in the container in time to prevent overflow. If the staff does not handle it in time, a full signal is sent to the main control device when the storage container is full. When the main control device receives the full signal, it controls the sorting system to suspend the sorting operation, thereby improving the automation performance of the sorting equipment. By combining AI vision technology, the machine can identify and match items to be sorted through autonomous discrimination and lock the target object through positioning function. Without human intervention, it can automatically classify and place items to be sorted, and monitor container overflow, making the machine more intelligent and further improving the level and capacity of sorting.

[0134] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or system that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or system. Unless otherwise specified, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or system that includes that element.

[0135] The sequence numbers of the above embodiments of the present invention are for descriptive purposes only and do not represent the superiority or inferiority of the embodiments.

[0136] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by means of software plus necessary general-purpose hardware platforms. Of course, they can also be implemented by hardware, but in many cases the former is a better implementation method. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the present invention, or the part that contributes to the prior art, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium (such as read-only memory / random access memory, magnetic disk, optical disk) and includes several instructions to cause a terminal device (which may be a mobile phone, computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods described in the various embodiments of the present invention.

[0137] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not limit the scope of the patent. Any equivalent structural or procedural transformations made based on the description and drawings of the present invention, or direct or indirect applications in other related technical fields, are similarly included within the scope of patent protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An article sorting system, characterized by, The item sorting system includes: a diversion device, a transmission device, a base plate, an identification device, a trapezoidal groove, a stacking groove, and a storage container. The transmission device has multiple partition boxes mounted on its transmission rod. Each partition box is a four-sided box. The base plate is fixedly attached to the bottom of each partition box at a predetermined distance. The partition boxes have no bottom surface. Multiple openable and closable baffles are mounted on the base plate. Adjacent sides of each partition box are inclined at a predetermined angle. When the transmission rod moves the partition boxes on the base plate, adjacent sides of adjacent partition boxes are connected in a triangular prism shape, allowing items of a predetermined size to enter the partition boxes without stopping at the junction. The end of the diversion device connects to the partition boxes. The identification device is located above the transmission device. The trapezoidal groove is located below the movable baffles. The stacking groove is located below the end of the transmission device. The diversion device is used to divert the items to be sorted and then transport the items to be sorted into the separator box of the transmission device. The transmission device is used to move the separator box by means of the transmission bar, and the frame of the separator box pushes the items to be sorted inside to move on the base plate. The identification device is used to identify the items to be sorted in the separator box when the separator box moves below the identification device, and determine the item type of the items to be sorted based on the identification result; the identification result is sent to the main controller, and the main controller determines whether the movable baffle and the items to be sorted that are about to arrive are completely corresponding based on the speed of the chain movement measured by the encoder. If they are corresponding, the main controller controls the solenoid valve to open the movable baffle when the items to be sorted move above the trapezoidal groove corresponding to the item type, so that the items to be sorted fall into the corresponding trapezoidal groove, based on the item type of the items to be sorted and the speed information fed back by the encoder. The trapezoidal groove is used to transport items of the same type to be sorted into corresponding storage containers; The stacking trough is used to store unsorted items that have moved to the end of the transmission device, and to return the unsorted items that have moved to the end of the transmission device to the diversion device for re-diversion. The item sorting system further includes an infeed device; the infeed device is connected to the diversion device, and the conveyor belt of the infeed device is provided with a preset number of recesses, which are distributed in multiple parallel columns at a certain distance on the conveyor belt of the infeed device. The recesses allow items of a preset size to enter; the diversion device consists of a diversion trough and a conveyor belt. The items to be sorted are diverted by the diversion device under the conveyor belt, and each column of diversion transports the items to be sorted to the transmission device for sorting; the conveyor belt of the infeed device enters the diversion device in a single-line operation state; the number of diversions by the infeed device, the number of diversions by the diversion device, and the number of transmission devices are corresponding. The feeding device is used to shake at a preset frequency when it receives items to be sorted, so that the items to be sorted enter the recess. The diversion device is also used to divert the items to be sorted by the feeding device and transport the diverted items to the separator box of the transmission device.

2. The item sorting system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The item sorting system also includes solenoid valves and a main control device; The solenoid valve's mechanical switch is connected to the movable baffle, and the control terminal of the main control device is connected to the input terminal of the solenoid valve. The main control device is used to determine the trapezoidal groove corresponding to the item to be sorted according to the item type, and to send an opening signal to the solenoid valve when the item to be sorted moves above the corresponding trapezoidal groove; The solenoid valve is used to open the corresponding movable baffle according to the opening signal, so that the item to be sorted falls into the corresponding trapezoidal groove.

3. The item sorting system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The item sorting system also includes an early warning device; The early warning device is used to monitor the storage status of the storage container and, when the storage status reaches a preset state, issue an early warning signal to notify the management personnel to handle the situation in a timely manner. The early warning device is also used to generate a full signal and send the full signal to the main control device when the storage state reaches a full state. The main control device is also used to pause the sorting operation when it receives the full signal.

4. The item sorting system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The transmission device includes a transmission bar, a drive wheel, and a driven guide wheel; The drive wheel is used to drive the transmission bar to rotate, and at the connection between the drive wheel and the transmission bar, the angle is changed to make part of the transmission bar concave, so that the transmission bar rotates cyclically. The driven guide wheel guides the transmission bar to rotate along a fixed route. The transmission bar is used to move the separator box and the items to be sorted in the separator box on the base plate.

5. The item sorting system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The item sorting system also includes lighting equipment; the lighting equipment is located within a preset range of the identification device. The lighting equipment is used to provide basically fixed lighting conditions for the camera of the recognition device to avoid the influence of inconsistent ambient light when sorting items.

6. A method for sorting items, characterized in that, The item sorting method is applied to an item sorting system, which includes: a diversion device, a transmission device, a base plate, an identification device, a trapezoidal groove, a stacking groove, and a storage container; the transmission device has multiple partition boxes on its transmission bar, each partition box being a four-sided box; the base plate is fixedly attached to the bottom of the partition box at a predetermined distance; the partition box has no bottom surface; and the base plate has multiple openable and closable baffles; adjacent sides of each partition box are inclined at a predetermined angle; when the transmission bar moves the partition box on the base plate, adjacent sides of adjacent partition boxes are connected in a triangular prism shape, so that items of a predetermined size can enter the partition box without stopping at the junction; the end of the diversion device is connected to the partition box; the identification device is located above the transmission device; the trapezoidal groove is located below the movable baffles; and the stacking groove is located below the end of the transmission device; the method includes: After the diversion device diverts the items to be sorted, it transports the items to be sorted into the separator box of the transmission device. When the transmission device drives the separator box to move via the transmission bar, the frame of the separator box pushes the items to be sorted inside to move on the base plate. When the separator box moves below the identification device, the identification device identifies the items to be sorted in the separator box and determines the item type based on the identification result. The identification result is then sent to the main controller. The main controller determines whether the movable baffle corresponds perfectly with the item to be sorted that is about to arrive based on the speed of the chain movement measured by the encoder. If they correspond, the main controller controls the solenoid valve to open the movable baffle when the item to be sorted moves above the trapezoidal groove corresponding to the item type, based on the item type and the speed information fed back by the encoder, so that the item to be sorted falls into the corresponding trapezoidal groove. The trapezoidal trough transports items of the same type to the corresponding storage containers; The stacking trough stores unsorted items that have moved to the end of the transmission device, and returns the unsorted items that have moved to the end of the transmission device to the diversion device for re-diversion; The item sorting system further includes an infeed device; the infeed device is connected to the diversion device, and the conveyor belt of the infeed device is provided with a preset number of recesses, which are distributed in multiple parallel columns at a certain distance on the conveyor belt of the infeed device. The recesses allow items of a preset size to enter; the diversion device consists of a diversion trough and a conveyor belt. The items to be sorted are diverted by the diversion device under the conveyor belt, and each column of diversion transports the items to be sorted to the transmission device for sorting; the conveyor belt of the infeed device enters the diversion device in a single-line operation state; the number of diversions by the infeed device, the number of diversions by the diversion device, and the number of transmission devices are corresponding. When the feeding device receives the item to be sorted, it shakes at a preset frequency so that the item to be sorted enters the recess. The diversion device diverts the items to be sorted from the feeding device and transports the diverted items to the separator box of the transmission device.

7. The item sorting method as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The item sorting system further includes a solenoid valve and a main control device; the mechanical switch of the solenoid valve is connected to the movable baffle, and the control terminal of the main control device is connected to the input terminal of the solenoid valve; the step of opening the corresponding movable baffle when the item to be sorted moves above the trapezoidal groove corresponding to the item type, so that the item to be sorted falls into the corresponding trapezoidal groove, includes: The main control device determines the trapezoidal slot corresponding to the item to be sorted according to the item type, and sends an opening signal to the solenoid valve when the item to be sorted moves above the corresponding trapezoidal slot; The solenoid valve opens the corresponding movable baffle according to the opening signal, so that the item to be sorted falls into the corresponding trapezoidal groove.

8. The item sorting method as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The item sorting system also includes an early warning device; after the step of the trapezoidal trough conveying the same type of items to be sorted to the corresponding storage container, the system further includes: The early warning device monitors the storage status of the storage container and issues an early warning signal to notify the management personnel to handle the situation in a timely manner when the storage status reaches a preset state. When the storage state reaches the full state, the early warning device generates a full signal and sends the full signal to the main control device. When the main control device receives the full signal, it suspends the sorting operation.

Images