Continuous weighing method and continuous weighing system

Abstract

The continuous weighing method is applied to the continuous weighing system, the continuous weighing system comprises a rubber belt machine and a weighing platform, the weighing platform is arranged on the side close to the input end of the rubber belt machine and below the belt in contact with the article, the height of the weighing platform is higher than the height of the part of the belt not in contact with the weighing platform, and the method comprises the following steps: S100, acquiring the initial weight of the i-th article on the belt above the weighing platform in the case that the rubber belt machine is running; S200, in the case that the i-1-th article does not leave the rubber belt machine and the i+1-th article does not enter the rubber belt machine, searching for the i-1-th balance coefficient corresponding to the actual weight of the i-1-th article from the database according to the actual weight of the i-1-th article; S300, determining the actual weight of the i-th article according to the i-1-th balance coefficient and the initial weight; and S400, storing the image and the actual weight of the i-th article in association.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] At least one embodiment of this disclosure relates to a continuous weighing method for articles, and more specifically, to a continuous weighing method and system for multiple articles on a conveyor belt machine. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous improvement of people's living standards, both the logistics and transportation industries are showing a rapid development trend. In the logistics industry, a large number of goods need to be weighed during the transportation process in order to assess the transportation capacity and to check the weight of each item for comparison and analysis with the uploaded weight list.

[0003] In the weighing of multiple items, a conveyor belt machine is typically used. However, during manufacturing, the conveyor belt machine's dimensions in the transmission direction cannot be less than 1.2 meters. If this dimension is smaller, the machine's operation becomes unstable, making it impossible to achieve continuous weighing of multiple items by reducing the machine's size. Typically, the spacing between packages is 30-50 mm. Increasing the package spacing to allow only one item to be on the conveyor belt for continuous weighing would reduce weighing efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the above problems, this disclosure provides a continuous weighing method and system that enables continuous weighing of multiple items conveyed on a conveyor belt.

[0005] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a continuous weighing method is provided, applied to a continuous weighing system, the continuous weighing system including a conveyor belt and a weighing platform, the weighing platform being disposed near the input end of the conveyor belt and below the belt that contacts the workpiece, the height of the weighing platform being higher than the height of the portion of the belt that is not in contact with the weighing platform, the continuous weighing method comprising:

[0006] Step S100: While the conveyor belt is moving, use the weighing platform to obtain the initial weight of the i-th item when it is on the belt above the weighing platform.

[0007] Step S200: If the (i-1)th item has not left the conveyor belt and the (i+1)th item has not entered the conveyor belt, find the (i-1)th balance coefficient corresponding to the actual weight of the (i-1)th item from the database based on the actual weight of the (i-1)th item.

[0008] Step S300: Determine the actual weight of the i-th item based on the i-1 balance coefficient and the initial weight;

[0009] Step S400: Associate and store the image and actual weight of the i-th item.

[0010] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the database stores multiple reference balance coefficients associated with multiple reference weights, and the method for determining the associated reference balance coefficient based on each reference weight includes:

[0011] Place a reference item with a reference weight on the belt located above the weighing platform;

[0012] Calibrate the weighing platform so that the measured value is the reference weight;

[0013] The conveyor belt is driven to move so that the reference item leaves the weighing platform but remains on the belt. The measured value of the weighing platform is then read as the reference balance coefficient.

[0014] According to embodiments of this disclosure, retrieving the (i-1)th balance coefficient from the database corresponding to the actual weight of the (i-1)th item includes:

[0015] Find the reference weight in the database that is closest to the actual weight of the (i-1)th item; and

[0016] The reference balance coefficient related to the reference weight is used as the (i-1)th balance coefficient.

[0017] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, in step S300, the difference between the initial weight and the i-1 balance coefficient is used as the actual weight of the i-th item.

[0018] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, when i=1, there is no (i-1)th item on the tape machine, and the initial weight of the i-th item is determined as the actual weight of the i-th item.

[0019] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the continuous weighing method further includes:

[0020] In step S200, if there is no (i-1)th item between the weighing platform and the output end of the conveyor belt, the initial weight of the i-th item is determined as the actual weight of the i-th item.

[0021] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the continuous weighing system further includes a display device and / or a printing device.

[0022] According to embodiments of this disclosure, when the continuous weighing system includes a display device, the continuous weighing method further includes:

[0023] Step S610: Use a display device to associate and display the image of the i-th item with its actual weight.

[0024] According to embodiments of this disclosure, when the continuous weighing system includes a printing device, the continuous weighing method further includes:

[0025] Step S620: Use a printing device to associate the image of each item with its actual weight and print it to form a weight inspection report for multiple items.

[0026] According to embodiments of this disclosure, both the input and output ends of the continuous weighing system are equipped with conveying mechanisms.

[0027] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the continuous weighing method further includes:

[0028] Step S500: If it is determined that there are items on the conveyor mechanism at the output end, disinfect the items located on the conveyor mechanism at the output end.

[0029] A second aspect of this disclosure provides a continuous weighing system, comprising:

[0030] A tape conveyor, which has a belt for transporting items;

[0031] The weighing platform is located near the input end of the conveyor belt and below the belt that contacts the items. The height of the weighing platform is higher than the height of the belt that contacts the items. The weighing platform is suitable for detecting the initial weight of items located on the conveyor belt.

[0032] The first detector is used to detect whether any items have entered the tape machine;

[0033] The second detector is used to detect whether any items have left the tape machine;

[0034] Image acquisition device for acquiring images of items entering a tape machine; and

[0035] The controller is configured as follows:

[0036] Control the weighing platform to obtain the initial weight of the i-th item when it is located on the belt above the weighing platform;

[0037] If the second detector detects that the (i-1)th item has not left the conveyor belt and the first detector detects that the (i+1)th item has not entered the conveyor belt, the (i-1)th balance coefficient corresponding to the actual weight of the (i-1)th item is retrieved from the database based on the actual weight of the (i-1)th item.

[0038] Determine the actual weight of the i-1 item based on the balance coefficient and the initial weight;

[0039] Store the image and actual weight of the i-th item together.

[0040] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the continuous weighing system further includes:

[0041] The display device is configured to display an image and actual weight of the i-th item under the control of the controller.

[0042] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the continuous weighing system further includes:

[0043] The printing device, under the control of the controller, associates the image of each item with its actual weight and prints it to generate a weight inspection report for multiple items.

[0044] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the continuous weighing system further includes:

[0045] The output conveyor mechanism is located after the outlet end of the conveyor belt and is suitable for receiving items weighed by the conveyor belt.

[0046] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the continuous weighing system further includes:

[0047] The third detector is used to detect whether any items have entered the output conveyor mechanism; and

[0048] The sterilization device is configured to sterilize items located on the output conveyor mechanism under the control of a controller, when items are present on the output conveyor mechanism.

[0049] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the continuous weighing system further includes;

[0050] The input conveyor mechanism, located before the inlet of the conveyor belt, is suitable for receiving weighed items and transferring the received items onto the conveyor belt.

[0051] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the continuous weighing system further includes:

[0052] The first support frame is set on the conveyor belt and located at the inlet end of the conveyor belt. The first detector and the image acquisition device are installed on the first support frame.

[0053] A second support frame is mounted on the conveyor belt and located at the outlet end of the conveyor belt; the second detector is mounted on the second support frame; and

[0054] The third support frame is mounted on the output transmission mechanism, and the third detector and sterilization device are mounted on the third support frame.

[0055] According to embodiments of this disclosure, any one of the first detector, the second detector, and the third detector includes:

[0056] A light emitter, mounted on a column of the first, second, or third support frame, is suitable for emitting a light beam; and

[0057] A light receiver, mounted on another column of the first, second, or third support frame, is adapted to receive a light beam emitted from the light emitter.

[0058] According to embodiments of this disclosure, by setting a weighing platform on the tape machine, the weight of multiple items can be continuously measured without stopping the tape machine. This avoids the instability caused by reducing the size of the tape machine and also avoids the problem of low measurement efficiency caused by increasing the spacing between items. Attached Figure Description

[0059] The foregoing contents, as well as other objects, features, and advantages of this disclosure, will become clearer from the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0060] Figure 1 A perspective view of a continuous weighing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0061] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating a continuous weighing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically;

[0062] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of scenario A of a continuous weighing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0063] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of scenario B of the continuous weighing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0064] Figure 5 A schematic diagram illustrating scenario C of a continuous weighing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; and

[0065] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of scenario D of a continuous weighing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0066] The embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that these descriptions are exemplary only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure for ease of explanation. However, it will be apparent that one or more embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known structures and techniques are omitted in the following description to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the concepts of the present disclosure.

[0067] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. The terms “comprising,” “including,” etc., as used herein indicate the presence of the stated features, steps, operations, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, or components.

[0068] All terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art, unless otherwise defined. It should be noted that the terms used herein are to be interpreted in a manner consistent with the context of this specification, and not in an idealized or overly rigid way.

[0069] When using expressions such as "at least one of A, B, and C", they should generally be interpreted in accordance with the meaning that is commonly understood by a person skilled in the art (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" should include, but is not limited to, a system having A alone, a system having B alone, a system having C alone, a system having A and B, a system having A and C, a system having B and C, and / or a system having A, B, and C, etc.).

[0070] In the technical solution disclosed herein, the collection, storage, use, processing, transmission, provision, disclosure, and application of image information of user items all comply with the provisions of relevant laws and regulations, necessary confidentiality measures have been taken, and they do not violate public order and good morals.

[0071] In the technical solution disclosed herein, the user's authorization or consent is obtained before acquiring or collecting image information of the user's items.

[0072] In this disclosed technical solution, the tape machine can be set to a size of 120cm, the package spacing to 40cm, and the weighing platform to 40cm. The typical package size is 30cm. Specific dimensions can be adjusted according to actual needs.

[0073] Figure 1 A perspective view of a continuous weighing system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0074] like Figure 1 As shown, the continuous weighing system 100 may include a conveyor belt machine 200, a weighing platform 300, a first detector 400, a second detector 500, an image acquisition device 600, and a controller 700.

[0075] The conveyor belt 200 has a belt for transporting items, suitable for transporting multiple items such as suitcases, parcels, and travel bags. A weighing platform 300 is located near the input end of the conveyor belt 200 and below the belt that contacts the items. The height of the weighing platform 300 is higher than the height of the belt in contact with the items. The weighing platform 300 is used to detect the initial weight of the items on the conveyor belt 200. A first detector 400 is used to detect whether any items have entered the conveyor belt 200. A second detector 500 is used to detect whether any items have left the conveyor belt 200. An image acquisition device 600 is used to acquire images of the items entering the conveyor belt 200.

[0076] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the controller 700 may include a control module, a calculation module, and a storage module. The control module is configured to: control the weighing platform 300 to acquire the initial weight of the i-th item when it is positioned on the conveyor belt above the weighing platform 300; when the second detector 500 detects that the (i-1)-th item has not left the conveyor belt 200 and the first detector 400 detects that the (i+1)-th item has not entered the conveyor belt 200, the calculation module is configured to: look up the (i-1)-th balance coefficient corresponding to the actual weight of the (i-1)-th item from the database based on the actual weight of the (i-1)-th item; determine the actual weight of the i-th item based on the (i-1)-th balance coefficient and the initial weight; and the storage module is configured to associate and store the image of the i-th item with its actual weight.

[0077] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, after the continuous weighing system 100 is started, when the first item is weighed at the weighing platform 300, the first detector 400 detects that the second item has not entered the conveyor belt 200, and at this time the weight of the first item can be accurately measured. When the second item is weighed at the weighing platform 300, if the second detector 500 detects that the first item has not left the conveyor belt 200 and the first detector 400 detects that the third item has not entered the conveyor belt 200, the initial weight of the second item is measured using the weighing platform 300, and a first balance coefficient corresponding to the weight of the first item is retrieved from the database, thereby enabling the actual weight of the second item to be accurately calculated based on the initial weight of the second item, the weight of the first item, and the first balance coefficient.

[0078] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, when the third item is measured by the weighing platform 300, the second detector 500 detects that the second item has not left the conveyor belt 200, and the first detector 400 detects that the fourth item has not entered the conveyor belt 200. At this time, the actual weight of the third item can be calculated based on the second balance coefficient corresponding to the initial weight of the third item and the actual weight of the second item. The actual weight of each subsequent item can be obtained by analogy.

[0079] According to embodiments of this disclosure, before or after determining the weight of each item by the above method, an image acquisition device 600 can be used to acquire an image of the item, and the image of the item and its weight can be associated and stored. The image can refer to the label image of the item, or it can be barcode information or number information obtained by recognizing the label on the item to characterize the item. The image acquisition device 600 may include a camera or a barcode recognition device.

[0080] According to the embodiments of this disclosure, by setting a weighing platform 300 on the tape machine 200, the weight of multiple items can be continuously measured without stopping the tape machine 200. This avoids the instability caused by reducing the size of the tape machine 200 and also avoids the problem of low measurement efficiency caused by increasing the spacing between items.

[0081] like Figure 1 As shown, the continuous weighing system 100 may also include a display device 800, which is configured to display an image and actual weight of the i-th item under the control of the controller 700.

[0082] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the display device 800 allows staff to view the weight of each item in real time, or allows the owner of the item to view the weight of their own item, so that items exceeding the weight limit can be dealt with promptly.

[0083] like Figure 1 As shown, the continuous weighing system 100 may also include a printing device 900. The printing device 900 is configured to associate an image of each item with its actual weight under the control of the controller 700, thereby generating a weight report for multiple items. For example, the printed images and weights of the items can be affixed to the items, used for archiving and retrieval, or carried by the owner of the items.

[0084] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the printing device 900 can provide staff with a weight detection report so that staff can perform subsequent processing based on the report, such as calculating the error based on the report and the reported weight of the item.

[0085] like Figure 1 As shown, the continuous weighing system 100 may further include an output conveyor mechanism 1000. The output conveyor mechanism 1000 is located after the outlet end of the conveyor belt 200 and is suitable for receiving the items weighed by the conveyor belt 200.

[0086] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the output conveyor 1000 can avoid the problem of manual handling when each item leaves the conveyor belt 200, thereby reducing labor costs and improving work efficiency.

[0087] like Figure 1 As shown, the continuous weighing system 100 may further include a third detector 1100 and a sterilization device 1200. The third detector 1100 is adapted to detect whether an item has entered the output conveying mechanism 1000. The sterilization device 1200 is configured to sterilize the items located on the output conveying mechanism 1000 under the control of the controller 700 when there are items on the output conveying mechanism 1000.

[0088] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the use of the sterilization device 1200 can prevent the impact on the health of individuals due to bacteria or viruses remaining on the items when items are transferred between multiple people (including staff and owners of the items).

[0089] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the continuous weighing system 100 may further include an input conveying mechanism 1300. The input conveying mechanism 1300 is disposed before the inlet end of the conveyor belt 200 and is adapted to receive the items to be weighed and transfer the received items onto the conveyor belt 200.

[0090] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the input end of the input conveying mechanism 1300 can be connected to other conveying devices. The input conveying mechanism 1300 avoids the problem of low weighing efficiency caused by manually placing items sequentially.

[0091] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the continuous weighing system 100 may further include a first support frame 1401, a second support frame 1402, and a third support frame 1403. The first support frame 1401 is disposed on the conveyor belt 200 and located at the inlet end of the conveyor belt 200, and a first detector 400 and an image acquisition device 600 are mounted on the first support frame 1401. The second support frame 1402 is disposed on the conveyor belt 200 and located at the outlet end of the conveyor belt 200, and a second detector 500 is mounted on the second support frame 1402. The third support frame 1403 is disposed on the output conveying mechanism 1000, and a third detector 1100 and a sterilization device 1200 are mounted on the third support frame 1403.

[0092] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the continuous weighing method described above is executed when the first detector 400 on the first support frame 1401 detects the item, wherein the image acquisition device 600 can acquire an image of the item. When the second detector 500 on the second support frame 1402 detects that the item is within its detection area, it can be determined that the item has left the conveyor belt 200. When the item leaves the conveyor belt 200 and passes through the detection area of ​​the third detector 1100, if the third detector 1100 detects the item, the controller 700 controls the sterilization device 1200 to sterilize the item, and then the item continues to move.

[0093] According to embodiments of this disclosure, any one of the first detector 400, the second detector 500, and the third detector 1100 may include a light emitter and a light receiver. In another alternative embodiment, any one of the first detector 400, the second detector 500, and the third detector 11001 may include a laser with a laser emitter and a laser receiver, the laser receiver determining the presence of an item based on the intensity of the laser light emitted by the laser emitter toward the transmitting device after reflection. For example, the laser may include a single-line laser.

[0094] In some embodiments, a light emitter is mounted on one column of the first support frame 1401, the second support frame 1402, or the third support frame 1403, and is adapted to emit a light beam. A light receiver is mounted on the other column of the first support frame 1401, the second support frame 1402, or the third support frame 1403, and is adapted to receive the light beam emitted from the light emitter.

[0095] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, when an item enters (or leaves) the tape machine 200, a light emitter on the column emits a light beam. Due to the obstruction of the item, the light receiver cannot receive the corresponding light beam, thereby determining that an item has moved into the detection area of ​​the detector.

[0096] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating a continuous weighing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically. Figure 3 A schematic diagram of scenario A of a continuous weighing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 4 A schematic diagram of scenario B of the continuous weighing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 5 A schematic diagram of scenario C of a continuous weighing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 6 A schematic diagram of scenario D of a continuous weighing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0097] The continuous weighing method is applied to a continuous weighing system 100, which may include a conveyor belt 200 and a weighing platform 300. The weighing platform 300 is located near the input end of the conveyor belt 200 and below the belt that contacts the item. The height of the weighing platform 300 is higher than the height of the portion of the belt that is not in contact with the weighing platform 300. Figure 2 As shown, the continuous weighing method may include steps S100 to S400.

[0098] Step S100: While the conveyor belt 200 is moving, use the weighing platform 300 to obtain the initial weight of the i-th item when it is on the belt above the weighing platform 300. Step S200: If the (i-1)-th item has not left the conveyor belt 200 and the (i+1)-th item has not entered the conveyor belt 200, look up the (i-1)-th balance coefficient corresponding to the actual weight of the (i-1)-th item in the database. Step S300: Determine the actual weight of the i-th item based on the (i-1)-th balance coefficient and the initial weight. Step S400: Associate and store the image and actual weight of the i-th item.

[0099] According to embodiments of this disclosure, such as Figure 3-5 As shown, because the weighing platform 300 is positioned below the belt that contacts the item, the height of the weighing platform 300 is higher than the height of the portion of the belt that is not in contact with the weighing platform 300. This allows items that have left the weighing platform but are still on the belt (e.g., items that have left the weighing platform but are still on the belt) to be weighed more easily. Figure 5 The item on the far right (in the middle) will still exert pressure on the weighing platform. Therefore, when the weighing platform is weighing an item that is on the platform, the reading (measured weight) will include the pressure exerted by items leaving the platform. Based on this, the influence of items leaving the platform should be considered when calculating the actual weight of an item on the platform.

[0100] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the weighing platform 300 can be made of a load-bearing plate and multiple weight sensors, or it can be other weighing devices capable of performing weighing functions, such as electronic scales. The conveyor belt machine 200 involved in this disclosure belongs to a type of conveying device, which can also be a conveying device made of conveyor rollers and conveyor belts.

[0101] According to embodiments of this disclosure, after the continuous weighing system 100 is started (e.g. Figure 3 As shown), when the first item is weighed at weighing platform 300, the second item has not yet entered conveyor belt 200. At this time, the weight of the first item can be accurately measured (e.g., Figure 4 (As shown). When the second item is weighed, if the first item has not left the conveyor belt 200 and the third item has not entered the conveyor belt 200, the initial weight of the second item is measured using the weighing platform 300. Simultaneously, the first balance coefficient corresponding to the weight of the first item is retrieved from the database. This allows the actual weight of the second item to be accurately calculated based on its initial weight, the weight of the first item, and the first balance coefficient (e.g., ...). Figure 5 (As shown).

[0102] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, when the third item is being measured, the second item has not yet left the conveyor belt 200, the first item has left the conveyor belt 200, and the fourth item has not yet entered the conveyor belt 200. At this time, the actual weight of the third item can be calculated based on the initial weight of the third item and the second balance coefficient corresponding to the actual weight of the second item. The actual weight of each subsequent item can be obtained in this manner (e.g., ...). Figure 6 (As shown).

[0103] In one illustrative embodiment, when measuring the third item, if the first item has not left the conveyor belt 200, the total weight of the first and second items can be used as a reference weight to obtain the balance coefficient corresponding to the reference weight from the database to calculate the actual weight of the third item. Since there is a gap between the first and second items on the conveyor belt 200, the total balance coefficient of multiple items under the reference weight is not necessarily the same as the balance coefficient of a single item under the reference weight. Therefore, the total balance coefficient can be set separately in the database to deal with the influence of multiple items on the weight of items on the weighing platform 300.

[0104] It should be noted that because items of different weights exert different pressures on the conveyor belt, the impact on the weight detection of the weighing platform 300 also varies. Therefore, the database stores a large number of balance coefficients, each corresponding to a specific weight. Optionally, the weights corresponding to multiple balance coefficients in the database can be arranged according to a preset gradient. In the express delivery and logistics field, the weight of ordinary packages is usually less than 50kg. Therefore, the preset gradient can be set to 0.1kg. This 0.1kg is only for illustrative purposes and does not limit the preset gradient to 0.1kg. Staff can arrange the weights reasonably according to the weight range of the packages, such as 0.5kg, 1kg, 10kg, or other values. The balance coefficients for different weights are shown in the table below (this table is only used to explain that the balance coefficients for different weights are different).

[0105] Serial Number weight Balance coefficient …… …… …… 21 10.0kg 0.10kg 22 10.5kg 0.11kg 23 11.0kg 0.14kg 24 11.5kg 0.18kg 25 12.0kg 0.23kg 26 12.5kg 0.29kg 27 13.0kg 0.36kg 28 13.5kg 0.43kg 29 14.0kg 0.47kg 30 14.5kg 0.50kg 31 15.0kg 0.53kg 32 15.5kg 0.57kg 33 16.0kg 0.62kg 34 16.5kg 0.66kg 35 17.0kg 0.69kg 36 17.5kg 0.72kg …… …… ……

[0106] According to embodiments of this disclosure, before or after determining the weight of each item by the above method, an image of the item can be acquired, and the image of the item and its weight can be associated and stored. The image can refer to the label image of the item, or it can be barcode information or number information obtained by identifying the label on the item to characterize the item.

[0107] According to the embodiments of this disclosure, by setting a weighing platform 300 on the tape machine 200, the weight of multiple items can be continuously measured without stopping the tape machine 200. This avoids the instability caused by reducing the size of the tape machine 200 and also avoids the problem of low measurement efficiency caused by increasing the spacing between items.

[0108] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the database stores multiple reference balance coefficients that are respectively associated with multiple reference weights, and the method for determining the associated reference balance coefficient based on each reference weight may include the following steps.

[0109] A reference item with a reference weight is placed on a belt located above the weighing platform 300. The weighing platform 300 is calibrated so that its measurement value is the reference weight. The conveyor belt 200 is driven to move so that the reference item leaves the weighing platform 300 but remains on the belt, and the measurement value of the weighing platform 300 is read as the reference balance coefficient.

[0110] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the balance coefficient is determined by measuring a large number of calibration objects (reference items). For example, when determining the balance coefficient for 10 kg, it is necessary to use multiple 10 kg reference items to measure the test item with different known weights, and finally determine the balance coefficient for 10 kg.

[0111] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the purpose of calibrating the weighing platform 300 is to avoid the influence of the belt on the weighing platform 300 during the operation of the conveyor belt 200.

[0112] According to embodiments of this disclosure, retrieving the (i-1)th balance coefficient from the database corresponding to the actual weight of the (i-1)th item may include:

[0113] Find the reference weight in the database that is closest to the actual weight of the (i-1)th item; and

[0114] The reference balance coefficient related to the reference weight is used as the (i-1)th balance coefficient.

[0115] According to embodiments of this disclosure, since different items have different weights, the database may not have a balance coefficient corresponding to that weight. In this case, the balance coefficient of the weight closest to that weight can be determined from the database as the balance coefficient of that item.

[0116] According to embodiments of this disclosure, for example, if the database contains balance coefficients for 1.8kg and 2.0kg (but not for balance coefficients between 1.8kg and 2.0kg), and the measured weight of the item is 1.85kg, then the balance coefficient corresponding to 1.8kg can be used as the balance coefficient for the 1.85kg item. The above is merely an illustrative example; in actual use, to reduce error, the gradient value of the preset gradient can be decreased.

[0117] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, for example, if there are balance coefficients of 1.8kg and 2.0kg in the database (there are no balance coefficients between 1.8kg and 2.0kg), and the measured weight of the item is 1.9kg, then the weights closest to 1.9kg are 1.8kg and 2.0kg. In this case, the average of the balance coefficients of 1.8kg and 2.0kg can be used as the balance coefficient of the 1.85kg item.

[0118] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, in step S300, the difference between the initial weight and the i-1 balance coefficient is used as the actual weight of the i-th item.

[0119] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, when i=2, the difference between the initial weight of the second item and the first balance coefficient can be used as the actual weight of the second item.

[0120] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, when i=1, there is no (i-1)th item on the tape machine 200, and the initial weight of the i-th item is determined as the actual weight of the i-th item.

[0121] In one exemplary embodiment, when the first item is weighed, its initial weight can be determined as its actual weight to enable the weighing of subsequent items.

[0122] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the continuous weighing method may further include: in step S200, if there is no (i-1)th item between the weighing platform 300 and the output end of the conveyor belt 200, then the initial weight of the i-th item is determined as the actual weight of the i-th item.

[0123] In one exemplary embodiment, if the first item has already left the conveyor belt 200 when the second item is being weighed, the initial weight of the second item can be determined as the actual weight of the second item to enable the weighing of subsequent items.

[0124] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the continuous weighing system 100 may further include a display device 800 and / or a printing device 900.

[0125] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, where the continuous weighing system 100 may include a display device 800, the continuous weighing method may further include: step S610: using the display device 800 to associate and display an image of the i-th item with its actual weight.

[0126] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the display device 800 allows staff to view the weight of each item in real time, or allows the owner of the item to view the weight of their own item, so that items exceeding the weight limit can be dealt with promptly.

[0127] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the display device 800 can be a display screen or an electronic device such as a computer that is communicatively connected to the continuous weighing system 100. After weighing each item, the display device 800 can be used to display the actual weight and image of the corresponding item, for example, in the form of an Excel spreadsheet.

[0128] According to embodiments of this disclosure, where the continuous weighing system 100 may include a printing device 900, the continuous weighing method may further include: step S620: using the printing device 900 to associate an image of each item with its actual weight and print it to generate a weight detection report for multiple items. For example, the printed images and actual weights of the items may be affixed to the items, used for archiving and retrieval, or carried by the owner of the items.

[0129] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the printing device 900 can provide staff with a weight detection report so that staff can perform subsequent processing based on the report, such as calculating the error based on the report and the reported weight of the item.

[0130] According to embodiments of this disclosure, both the input and output ends of the continuous weighing system 100 are provided with conveying mechanisms.

[0131] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the input end of the conveying mechanism located at the input end of the continuous weighing system 100 can be connected to other conveying devices. The conveying mechanism avoids the problem of low weighing efficiency caused by manually placing items sequentially.

[0132] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the conveying mechanism located at the output end of the continuous weighing system 100 can avoid the problem of manual handling when each item leaves the conveyor belt 200, thereby reducing labor costs and improving work efficiency.

[0133] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the continuous weighing method may further include: step S500: when it is determined that there is an item on the conveying mechanism at the output end, the item located on the conveying mechanism at the output end is disinfected.

[0134] According to the embodiments of this disclosure, since the items may pass through different environments or different personnel when entering the continuous weighing system 100, there is a high probability that viruses or the like may be present on the items. Therefore, the items can be disinfected after they leave the continuous weighing system 100. The disinfection device can be a disinfectant spray device or an ultraviolet radiation lamp.

[0135] Those skilled in the art will understand that the features described in the various embodiments and / or claims of this disclosure can be combined or combined in various ways, even if such combinations or combinations are not explicitly described in this disclosure. In particular, the features described in the various embodiments and / or claims of this disclosure can be combined or combined in various ways without departing from the spirit and teachings of this disclosure. All such combinations and / or combinations fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0136] The embodiments of this disclosure have been described above. However, these embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Although various embodiments have been described above, this does not mean that the measures in the various embodiments cannot be used advantageously in combination. The scope of this disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Various substitutions and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of this disclosure, and all such substitutions and modifications should fall within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A continuous weighing method applied to a continuous weighing system, the continuous weighing system including a conveyor belt and a weighing platform, the weighing platform being disposed near the input end of the conveyor belt and below the belt that contacts the item, the height of the weighing platform being higher than the height of the portion of the belt that does not contact the weighing platform, the method comprising: Step S100: While the conveyor belt is moving, use the weighing platform to obtain the initial weight of the i-th item when it is on the belt above the weighing platform; Step S200: If the (i-1)th item has not left the tape machine and the (i+1)th item has not entered the tape machine, find the (i-1)th balance coefficient corresponding to the actual weight of the (i-1)th item from the database based on the actual weight of the (i-1)th item. Step S300: Determine the actual weight of the i-th item based on the i-1 balance coefficient and the initial weight; Step S400: Associate and store the image and actual weight of the i-th item; The process of finding the (i-1)th balance coefficient corresponding to the actual weight of the (i-1)th item from the database based on the actual weight of the (i-1)th item includes: The database is searched for a reference weight that is closest to the actual weight of the (i-1)th item, and the database stores multiple reference balance coefficients associated with each of the multiple reference weights; and The reference balance coefficient associated with the reference weight is used as the (i-1)th balance coefficient.

2. The continuous weighing method according to claim 1, wherein, Methods for determining the relevant reference balance coefficient based on each reference weight include: Place the reference item with the reference weight on the belt located above the weighing platform; The weighing platform is calibrated so that the measured value of the weighing platform is the reference weight; The conveyor belt is driven to move so that the reference item leaves the weighing platform but remains on the belt, and the measured value of the weighing platform is read as the reference balance coefficient.

3. The continuous weighing method according to claim 1, wherein, In step S300, the difference between the initial weight and the i-1 balance coefficient is taken as the actual weight of the i-th item.

4. The continuous weighing method according to claim 1, wherein, When i=1, there is no (i-1)th item on the tape machine, and the initial weight of the i-th item is determined as the actual weight of the i-th item.

5. The continuous weighing method according to claim 1, further comprising: In step S200, if there is no i-1 item between the weighing platform and the output end of the conveyor belt, the initial weight of the i-th item is determined as the actual weight of the i-th item.

6. The continuous weighing method according to claim 1, wherein, The continuous weighing system also includes a display device and / or a printing device.

7. The continuous weighing method according to claim 6, wherein, When the continuous weighing system includes the display device, the method further includes: Step S610: Use the display device to associate and display the image of the i-th item with the actual weight.

8. The continuous weighing method according to claim 6, wherein, When the continuous weighing system includes the printing device, the method further includes: Step S620: Use the printing device to associate the image of each item with its actual weight and print it to form a weight detection report for multiple items.

9. The continuous weighing method according to claim 1, wherein, Both the input and output ends of the continuous weighing system are equipped with conveying mechanisms.

10. The continuous weighing method according to claim 9, further comprising: Step S500: If it is determined that there is an item on the conveying mechanism at the output end, the item on the conveying mechanism at the output end is disinfected.

11. A continuous weighing system, comprising: A tape conveyor, the tape conveyor having a belt for conveying articles; A weighing platform is positioned near the input end of the conveyor belt and below the belt that contacts the item. The height of the weighing platform is higher than the height of the belt that contacts the item. The weighing platform is suitable for detecting the initial weight of the item located on the conveyor belt. The first detector is used to detect whether any items have entered the tape machine; The second detector is used to detect whether any items have left the tape machine; An image acquisition device is used to acquire images of the items entering the tape machine; as well as The controller is configured as follows: Control the weighing platform to obtain the initial weight of the i-th item when it is located on the belt above the weighing platform; If the second detector detects that the (i-1)th item has not left the tape machine and the first detector detects that the (i+1)th item has not entered the tape machine, the (i-1)th balance coefficient corresponding to the actual weight of the (i-1)th item is retrieved from the database based on the actual weight of the (i-1)th item. The actual weight of the i-1 item is determined based on the i-1 balance coefficient and the initial weight. The image and actual weight of the i-th item are associated and stored; The process of finding the (i-1)th balance coefficient corresponding to the actual weight of the (i-1)th item from the database based on the actual weight of the (i-1)th item includes: The database is searched for a reference weight that is closest to the actual weight of the (i-1)th item, and the database stores multiple reference balance coefficients associated with each of the multiple reference weights; and The reference balance coefficient associated with the reference weight is used as the (i-1)th balance coefficient.

12. The continuous weighing system according to claim 11, further comprising: The display device is configured to display an image and actual weight of the i-th item under the control of the controller.

13. The continuous weighing system according to claim 11, further comprising: The printing device, under the control of the controller, associates the image of each item with its actual weight and prints it to generate a weight detection report for multiple items.

14. The continuous weighing system according to any one of claims 11-13, wherein, Also includes: An output conveyor mechanism is located after the outlet end of the conveyor belt and is suitable for receiving items weighed by the conveyor belt.

15. The continuous weighing system according to claim 14, wherein, Also includes: A third detector is used to detect whether an object has entered the output conveying mechanism; and The sterilization device is configured to sterilize items located on the output conveying mechanism under the control of the controller when items are on the output conveying mechanism.

16. The continuous weighing system according to claim 15, wherein, Also includes: An input conveying mechanism, located before the inlet of the conveyor belt, is suitable for receiving weighed items and transferring the received items onto the conveyor belt.

17. The continuous weighing system according to claim 16, further comprising: A first support frame is disposed on the conveyor belt and located at the inlet end of the conveyor belt, and the first detector and image acquisition device are mounted on the first support frame; A second support frame is provided on the conveyor belt and located at the outlet end of the conveyor belt, and the second detector is installed on the second support frame; as well as The third support frame is disposed on the output transmission mechanism, and the third detector and sterilization device are mounted on the third support frame.

18. The continuous weighing system according to claim 17, wherein, Any one of the first detector, the second detector, and the third detector includes: A light emitter, mounted on a column of the first, second, or third support frame, is suitable for emitting a light beam; and A light receiver, mounted on another column of the first, second, or third support frame, is adapted to receive a light beam emitted from the light emitter.

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