Apparatus for inspecting square cans

Abstract

Disclosed is an apparatus for inspecting a square can having a long side and a short side, the apparatus comprising: a pair of large surface inspectors spaced apart by a first pitch such that the can first enters a first inspection position with a small surface thereof having a short side, and configured to take images from facing directions; and a pair of small surface inspectors spaced apart by a second pitch such that the can first enters the second inspection position with a small surface thereof having a long side, and configured to take images from facing directions. The device for inspecting the appearance of the square battery can according to the present disclosure has improved accuracy in detecting defects on the edge and defects on a plurality of outer surfaces.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an apparatus for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can, and more specifically, to an inspection apparatus for detecting external defects in a square can.

[0002] This application is a result of the Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME) Technology Innovation Development Project (Development of an AI Vision Inspection System for CAN·CAP Components of Square Batteries, Project No.: 00277033), which was funded by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups of Korea and conducted under the supervision of the Korea Technology and Information Promotion Agency of SMEs. Background Technology

[0003] In the production process of rechargeable batteries, various inspection methods are used to identify whether the sealed battery cans are normal or defective. Among these inspection methods, there is one that uses a visual inspection device to capture images of the object to identify the presence of any external defects. Because even minor defects in the rechargeable battery cans can lead to major defects in the final product, defects in the cans should be inspected more precisely and accurately.

[0004] Regarding inspection devices for secondary battery cans, Korean Patent No. 1,287,464 has been disclosed. However, because the corners of the secondary battery can are formed with three-dimensional curved surfaces, this prior art makes it difficult to detect defects. Furthermore, this prior art also makes it difficult to obtain images of the inside and outside of the can, thus hindering defect detection.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] (Patent Document 1) Korean Patent No. 1,287,464 Summary of the Invention

[0007] This disclosure is conceived to solve the common problem of difficulty in detecting defects in the appearance of battery square cans, and one aspect of this disclosure is intended to provide an apparatus for inspecting the appearance of battery square cans.

[0008] Furthermore, another aspect of this disclosure is to provide an apparatus that improves the efficiency and accuracy of inspecting the appearance of a square can for secondary batteries.

[0009] According to embodiments of this disclosure, an apparatus for inspecting a square can having a long side and a short side is provided. The apparatus includes: a pair of large surface inspectors spaced apart by a first gap such that the square can first enter a first inspection position with its smaller surface having the short side, and is configured to capture images from opposite directions; and a pair of small surface inspectors spaced apart by a second gap such that the square can first enter a second inspection position with its larger surface having the long side, and is configured to capture images from facing directions.

[0010] On the other hand, each large surface inspector may include: a first camera module configured to capture an image of the large surface; a first coaxial illumination unit configured to illuminate light coaxially with the first camera module; and a first ambient illumination unit configured to illuminate light at an angle of less than 45 degrees relative to the large surface.

[0011] In addition, the first ambient lighting section may include at least one first ambient lighting unit that emits surface light along a surface perpendicular to the large surface.

[0012] On the other hand, the first ambient lighting section may include at least four first ambient lighting units arranged in four directions along the edge of the large surface.

[0013] Furthermore, the first ambient lighting unit can be located outside the area illuminated by the first coaxial lighting unit.

[0014] On the other hand, the device may further include a housing configured to include: a side, the cross-sectional area of ​​which is configured as a first region and has a hole formed at the center to enable the camera module to capture images; and a other side, the cross-sectional area of ​​which is configured as a second region larger than the first region, and an ambient lighting unit is disposed on the inner side of the sidewall.

[0015] On the other hand, the first spacing can be greater than the length of the shorter side.

[0016] On the other hand, the second spacing can be greater than the length of the longer side.

[0017] Furthermore, the device may include a bottom surface inspector positioned below the large surface inspector and configured to acquire an image of the bottom surface of the tank.

[0018] Additionally, each of the small surface inspectors may include: a second camera module configured to capture an image of the small surface; a second coaxial illumination unit configured to illuminate light coaxially with the second camera module; and a second ambient illumination unit configured to illuminate light at an angle of less than 45 degrees relative to the small surface.

[0019] Furthermore, the device may further include a transmission unit, one side of which is inserted into the square can and configured to pick up the square can, and the transmission unit is configured to move the square can horizontally while picking it up.

[0020] On the other hand, the transfer unit can be configured to pass the can between the pair of large surface inspectors.

[0021] On the other hand, the transmission unit can be configured to allow the angle of the hand to be adjusted so that the large or small surface can be selectively facing forward.

[0022] Furthermore, the transmission unit can be configured to have a different entry direction for inspecting large surfaces and a different entry direction for inspecting small surfaces when the pickup tank is in operation.

[0023] On the other hand, while one of the large surface inspectors can work by shining light onto the tank, the other can work by obtaining a silhouette image.

[0024] On the other hand, the device may further include: a placement unit configured to transfer a square can to an internal inspection position; and an internal inspector configured to inspect the interior of the square can placed at the internal inspection position.

[0025] The internal inspector may include: a large surface imaging module configured to capture images of the large internal surface of a square can placed at an internal inspection location; and a small surface imaging module configured to capture images of the small internal surface of the square can placed at the internal inspection location.

[0026] Each of the large surface imaging module and the small surface imaging module may include a mirror whose angle and position can be adjusted.

[0027] The large surface imaging module may include a first camera, a first internal coaxial illumination unit, a first mirror, and a first mirror adjuster. The small surface imaging module may include a second camera, a second internal coaxial illumination unit, a second mirror, and a second mirror adjuster. The first mirror adjuster may be configured to adjust at least one of the position and angle of the first mirror. The second mirror adjuster may be configured to adjust at least one of the position and angle of the second mirror.

[0028] The first lens and the first lens adjuster can each be set to a pair to capture images of a pair of large surfaces.

[0029] The small surface imaging module can be configured to acquire images observed at different angles depending on the height of the small surface by adjusting at least one of the angle and position of the mirror.

[0030] On the other hand, small surface imaging modules can be configured as a pair.

[0031] The first mirrors, which are set as a pair, can each be set outside the pair of large inner surfaces and each can be set to tilt upwards at a specified angle.

[0032] A mounting frame can be further provided to mount the large surface imaging module and the small surface imaging module above a specified height. In this case, the internal inspection location can be confined to the space defined by the mounting frame.

[0033] The first camera can be configured to adjust the focus based on at least one of the angle and position of the first lens.

[0034] The second camera can be configured to adjust the focus based on at least one of the angle and position of the second mirror.

[0035] The first internal coaxial lighting unit may include multiple first lighting units, and the second internal coaxial lighting unit may include multiple second lighting units. The first lighting units and the second lighting units may be configured to be controlled independently. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the square tank to be inspected according to this disclosure.

[0037] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of an apparatus for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a large surface inspector according to a first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0039] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of a large surface inspector according to a first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0040] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the working state of the large surface inspector in the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0041] Figure 6 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the optical path at the first inspection position in a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An enlarged view of the 'I' in the image.

[0043] Figure 8This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the optical path at the second inspection position in the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0044] Figure 9 This is a bottom view based on a square tank, showing a conceptual diagram of the area to be inspected by the inspector in the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0045] Figure 10 This is a conceptual diagram showing a silhouette image of a can taken in the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0046] Figure 11 This is a usage state diagram illustrating the transfer of the square tank according to the inspection process in the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0047] Figure 12 This is a usage state diagram illustrating the transfer of a square tank according to the inspection process in an alternative embodiment of the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0048] Figure 13 This is a block diagram of an apparatus for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of an apparatus for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the internal inspector in a second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0051] Figure 16 This is an exploded perspective view of the internal inspector in a second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0052] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of the first mirror and the first mirror adjuster in the second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0053] Figure 18 This is an exploded perspective view of the first mirror adjuster in the second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0054] Figure 19 This is an operational state diagram illustrating the angle adjustment operation of the first mirror adjuster in the second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0055] Figure 20 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the large surface imaging module in a second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0056] Figure 21 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the small surface imaging module in a second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0057] Figure 22a This is a diagram illustrating the imaging area of ​​the large surface imaging module in a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] Figure 22b This is a diagram illustrating the imaging area of ​​the small surface imaging module in a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] Figure 23a and Figure 23b These are images captured based on the operation of the large surface imaging module in the second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0060] Figure 24a and Figure 24b These are images captured based on the operation of the small surface imaging module in the second embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0061] The apparatus for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can according to embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the names of components may be referred to by other names in the art. However, if these components are functionally similar or identical to each other, they may be considered equivalent components in alternative embodiments. Furthermore, the reference numerals for components are given only for ease of description. However, the components indicated by the reference numerals in the drawings are not limited to those shown therein. Similarly, if components are functionally similar or identical to each other, they may be considered equivalent components even if they are partially modified in the drawings according to alternative embodiments. Moreover, descriptions of components that are considered by those skilled in the art to be included will be omitted.

[0062] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the square tank to be inspected according to this disclosure.

[0063] Reference Figure 1 The square can 1000 to be inspected according to this disclosure can be used in the manufacture of batteries such as secondary batteries. The square can 1000 is defined as having five outer surfaces. Four of the five outer surfaces are side surfaces, including two surfaces with a wide width and two surfaces with a narrow width. The remaining outer surface is defined as a bottom surface 1130 or 1230. The square can 1000 has a side open for inspection.

[0064] In the following text, the side surfaces with a wider width (long side) are referred to as "large surfaces 1110 and 1210", and the side surfaces with a narrower width (short side) are referred to as "small surfaces 1120 and 1220". Furthermore, the width of large surfaces 1110 and 1210 is referred to as the first width, and the width of small surfaces 1120 and 1220 is referred to as the second width.

[0065] Large surfaces 1110 and 1210 are further divided into an external large surface 1210 exposed to the outside and an internal large surface 1110 located on the opposite side of the external large surface 1210 and facing inward. Similarly, small surfaces 1120 and 1220 are divided into an external small surface 1220 exposed to the outside and an internal small surface 1120 located on the opposite side of the external small surface 1220 and facing inward.

[0066] According to this disclosure, the square can 1000 for a secondary battery has large surfaces 1110 and 1210, small surfaces 1120 and 1220, and bottom surfaces 1130 and 1230, which are formed as flat surfaces and connected perpendicularly to each other. In this case, the edge e is formed as a curved surface at the connection portion. Furthermore, the bottom surfaces 1130 and 1230 are divided into an outer bottom surface 1230 exposed to the outside and an inner bottom surface 1130 located on the opposite side of the outer bottom surface 1230 and facing inward.

[0067] The apparatus for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can according to a first embodiment of this disclosure is configured to accurately detect defects by visually inspecting the outer surface and edge e. Therefore, the “large surface,” “small surface,” and “bottom surface” inspected by the apparatus for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can according to the first embodiment described herein can refer to the outer large surface 1210, the outer small surface 1220, and the outer bottom surface 1230, respectively.

[0068] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of an apparatus for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] Reference Figure 2 According to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, the device 1 for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can 1000 may include a transmission unit 10, a large surface inspector 100, a small surface inspector 200, and a bottom surface inspector 300.

[0070] The transmission unit 10 may include a hand 20. The hand 20 is inserted into the opening of the square can 1000 and is configured to hold the can 1000. Furthermore, the transmission unit 10 is configured to move the can 1000 linearly while holding it. Alternatively, regardless of the literal meaning of the term, the hand 20 may refer to a component inserted into the can 1000 and used to pick up the can 1000.

[0071] The transfer unit 10 is configured to pick up the can 1000 and transfer it to a first inspection position and a second inspection position. The can 1000 can be inspected at the first inspection position for its large and bottom surfaces, and at the second inspection position for its small surfaces.

[0072] On the other hand, the description according to this disclosure has been based on an example of inspecting tank 1000 at a first inspection position and then inspecting tank 1000 at a second inspection position. However, this order can be reversed.

[0073] According to this disclosure, an example has been described based on the transfer unit 10 being configured to transfer the can 1000 in the horizontal direction. However, the transfer unit 10 can also be configured to transfer the can 1000 in the vertical direction. The transfer unit 10 may include a wide range of moving parts such as linear guides, actuators, or linear motors, and a wide range of configurations such as suction sections or clamps, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0074] Each of the large surface inspector 100, the small surface inspector 200, and the bottom surface inspector 300 is configured to inspect the surface facing the camera module and the edges e formed on that surface (see...). Figure 1 This is part of the inspection process.

[0075] Large surface inspectors 100 are configured to inspect the large surface of the square can 1000. The large surface inspectors 100 are configured as a pair and spaced apart by a first gap. The first gap can be defined as being greater than the width of the smaller surface. Therefore, the square can 1000 picked up by the transfer unit 10 can be moved linearly in the width direction of the large surface and placed between the pair of large surface inspectors 100.

[0076] The large surface inspector 100 may include a camera module configured to capture images from opposite directions. The large surface inspector 100 can inspect a pair of opposite large surfaces simultaneously.

[0077] The bottom surface inspector 300 can be positioned below the large surface inspector 100. Because the square can 1000 is picked up and transported by the transmission unit 10, the bottom surface inspector 300 will not be disturbed even if the square can 1000 moves between the large surface inspectors 100.

[0078] The bottom surface inspector 300 can be configured to acquire images of the bottom surface while its own illumination unit and the illumination unit disposed in the large surface inspector 100 are in operation. The acquired images can show the bottom surface and the four edges surrounding the bottom surface. Because the four edges are configured in a three-dimensional shape, approximately half of the area acquired by the bottom surface inspector 300 can be used for inspection. That is, the closer the direction the camera faces is to the tangent plane parallel to the edge, the more difficult it becomes to detect defects. In the cross-sectional view, the approximately 45-degree angle region of the edge formed between two perpendicular surfaces can be used to detect defects. The remaining 45-degree angle region needs to be inspected from different directions to capture images and detect defects. According to this disclosure, the small surface inspector 200 and / or the large surface inspector 100 are used to capture images of the remaining areas of the edge, thereby performing defect detection.

[0079] Although a configuration has been described based on the bottom surface inspector 300 working with the large surface inspector 100 at a first inspection position to obtain an image, this configuration is merely an example and the bottom surface inspector 300 can be modified to be configured to obtain an image of the bottom surface together with the small surface inspector 200 at a second inspection position.

[0080] The small surface inspector 200 is configured to inspect the small surfaces of the square can 1000. The small surface inspectors 200 can be configured as a pair, similar to the large surface inspectors 100. The pair of small surface inspectors 200 can be spaced apart by a second gap. This second gap can be greater than the width of the large surface of the square can 1000. Therefore, the square can 1000 can be moved horizontally in the width direction of the small surface via the transfer unit 10 and positioned between the small surface inspectors 200.

[0081] The small surface inspector 200 is configured to acquire images of a pair of opposing small surfaces of the tank 1000, thereby performing defect detection.

[0082] On the other hand, when the entry direction of the large surface inspector 100 is the same as the entry direction of the small surface inspector 2000, the transfer unit 10 can be configured to rotate the tank 1000 by 90 degrees. In this case, the configuration is simplified to linear movement in only one direction, which is sufficient to meet the requirements.

[0083] On the other hand, although not shown, the device 1 for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can 1000 according to this disclosure may include a controller and an image processor. The controller may control the operation of the camera module, the illumination unit, and the transmission unit 10. Additionally, the image processor may include an algorithm for detecting defects based on the acquired images. However, the controller and image processor can be implemented using well-known processors, and therefore their description will be omitted.

[0084] The configuration of the large surface inspector will be described in detail below.

[0085] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the large surface inspector in the first embodiment of this disclosure. Furthermore, Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the large surface inspector in the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0086] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The large surface inspector 100 may include a first housing 110, a first camera module 120, a first coaxial illumination unit 130, and a first ambient illumination unit 140.

[0087] The first housing 110 is configured to block external light interference during image capture to improve detection accuracy. The first housing 110 may have a quadrilateral cross-section corresponding to the shape of the square can 1000. The first housing 110 may include a coaxial illumination housing 111 and an ambient illumination housing 112. A camera is disposed on one side of the coaxial illumination housing 111, and the other side is combined with the ambient illumination housing 112. The ambient illumination housing 112 can extend from the coaxial illumination housing 111. The ambient illumination housing 112 may be formed such that a portion of its inner surface can extend in a direction parallel to the surface of the can to be imaged. A portion of the ambient illumination housing 112 combined with the coaxial illumination housing 111 may be formed with an aperture to be illuminated by coaxial light and imaged through the first camera module 120. The other side of the ambient illumination housing 112 may be open to illuminate light around the can.

[0088] A first coaxial illumination section 130, coaxially configured with the first camera module 120, can be provided in the opening. The first coaxial illumination section 130 can be arranged at an angle relative to the first camera module 120. As an example, the light-emitting portion of the first coaxial illumination section 130 can be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the first camera module 120. The first coaxial illumination section 130 may include an optical path converter, such as a beam splitter 131, to coaxially illuminate the first housing 110.

[0089] On one side of the first housing 110, a plurality of first ambient lighting units 140 may be disposed at a position adjacent to the end of the first housing 110. The first ambient lighting units 140 may include first ambient lighting elements disposed on the inner surface of the ambient lighting housing 112. The first ambient lighting elements may be disposed on the side facing the can placed at the inspection position on the inner surface of the ambient lighting housing 112. That is, the first ambient lighting units 140 may be configured to illuminate the can from at least five directions.

[0090] Each first ambient lighting unit may include a light-emitting element, such as a light-emitting diode (LED). Furthermore, each first ambient lighting unit may be configured to emit surface light. On the other hand, each first ambient lighting unit may be placed within a defined area, and the first ambient lighting units placed within the defined area may be controlled to operate independently of each other.

[0091] While the first coaxial illumination unit 130 illuminates the large surface coaxially and at least one first ambient illumination unit also illuminates the surface from the surrounding environment, the first camera module 120 acquires an image of the large surface. In this case, the first camera module 120 can be configured to acquire multiple images while the first ambient illumination unit operates in various combinations.

[0092] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the operational status of the large surface inspector 100 in the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0093] Light from the first coaxial illumination unit 130 illuminates the large surface at a relatively large angle. Light from the first ambient illumination unit 140 illuminates the large surface at a relatively small angle. On the other hand, light from the first coaxial illumination unit 130 and light from the first ambient illumination unit 140 illuminate the edge e at various angles (see...). Figure 1 This allows defects in the edge areas to be detected more effectively.

[0094] On the other hand, the aforementioned configuration of the large surface inspector 100 can also be applied to the small surface inspector 200. That is, the small surface inspector 200 may include a second housing 210, a second camera module 220, a second coaxial illumination unit 230, and a second ambient illumination unit 240. However, the small surface inspector 200 may be configured to have a different cross-sectional area corresponding to the small surface of the can 1000. In addition, the configuration such as the first ambient illumination unit 140 can be omitted from the bottom surface inspector 300, because the first ambient illumination unit 140 provided in the large surface inspector 100 can be used to provide ambient light to the bottom surface.

[0095] Furthermore, the bottom surface inspector 300 can be configured similarly to the large surface inspector 100, except that its size corresponds to the bottom surface and is smaller than that of the large surface inspector 100.

[0096] Figure 6 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the optical path at the first inspection position in a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0097] Reference Figure 6At the first inspection position, light can be irradiated from a pair of large surface inspectors 100 and bottom surface inspectors 300. In this case, light can be irradiated onto the large surface by a first coaxial illumination unit and a first ambient illumination unit 140. As an example, the first ambient illumination unit 140 can irradiate light at an angle of 0 to 30 degrees relative to the large surface. In this case, as described above, the light-emitting area of ​​the first ambient illumination unit 140 can be changed, and whenever the light-emitting area changes, the first camera module can operate to acquire an image of the large surface.

[0098] The bottom inspector 300 can acquire images via the third camera module 320 by illuminating the canister 1000 with light from the first ambient lighting unit 140 provided in the large surface inspector and the third coaxial lighting unit provided in the third housing 310.

[0099] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An enlarged view of the 'I' in the image.

[0100] Reference Figure 7 The bottom surface can be illuminated by light from the third coaxial illumination unit and also by light from the first ambient illumination unit of the large surface inspector. In this case, light can be reflected from the edge between the large surfaces 1110 and 1210 and the bottom surfaces 1130 and 1230 and received in the third camera module. In this case, the first ambient illumination unit can emit surface light towards the edge e at various angles, so the light can be reflected at various angles. A portion of the light reflected from the edge e can be collected in the first camera module and / or the third camera module.

[0101] Figure 8 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the optical path at the second inspection position in the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0102] Reference Figure 8 At the second inspection position, an image can be obtained by the small surface inspector 200.

[0103] In this configuration, the second coaxial illumination unit 230 operates to illuminate the small surface and the four edges (or three edges excluding the opening-side end) formed around the small surface. Additionally, as an example, the second ambient illumination unit 240 can illuminate the small surface at an angle of 0 to 30 degrees. The second camera module 220 can acquire an image of the small surface whenever the luminous area in the second ambient illumination unit 240 changes.

[0104] Figure 9 The first embodiment of this disclosure is a bottom view based on a square tank, showing a conceptual diagram of the area to be inspected by the inspector.

[0105] Reference Figure 9The large surface inspector 100 can acquire an image of the large surface and half (approximately 45 degrees) of the edge region surrounding the large surface. The small surface inspector 200 can acquire an image of the small surface and half (approximately 45 degrees) of the edge region surrounding the small surface.

[0106] On the other hand, the bottom surface inspector 300 can acquire images of the bottom surface and half of the four edge regions around the bottom surface (part of the edge adjacent to the bottom surface).

[0107] Figure 10 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating a silhouette image of a can that can be captured in the first embodiment of this disclosure. (See also...) Figure 10 The apparatus for inspecting the appearance of a square can according to this disclosure is configured to measure the dimensions of the square can. At a first inspection position, large surface inspectors are respectively positioned on both sides of the can. In this configuration, while one large surface inspector illuminates the can, the other large surface inspector captures an image. In other words, according to this disclosure, illumination from opposite sides can be used as backlighting to obtain a silhouette image of the can.

[0108] In the silhouette image, areas where light is blocked by the can can be identified, allowing for the calculation of the can's identifiable width and depth. Specifically, the boundaries of the can's edges in the silhouette image can be analyzed, and coordinates can be extracted in pixels to generate shape data. Based on the silhouette image Is, the dimensions of both large and small surfaces can be calculated.

[0109] Figure 11 This is a usage state diagram illustrating the transfer of the square tank according to the inspection process in the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0110] Reference Figure 11 According to this disclosure, the device for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can can transport the square can in a linear or in-line manner, such that the square can moves along a straight line simultaneously with a single angular rotation as it passes through a first inspection position and a second inspection position.

[0111] Figure 12 This is a usage state diagram illustrating the transfer of a square tank according to the inspection process in an alternative embodiment of the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0112] Reference Figure 12 This illustrates performing inspections at both the first and second inspection positions by changing the transport direction by 90 degrees without altering the orientation of the square tank. Figure 12 In the illustrated embodiment, the inspection is performed by arranging the small surface inspector 200 perpendicular to the entry direction of the large surface inspector 100. When as... Figure 12When configured as in the embodiments described above, the transmission unit 10 can be configured to transmit the square can in at least two directions.

[0113] As described above, the apparatus for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can according to the first embodiment of this disclosure has the following effect: it minimizes changes in the orientation of the square can, thereby quickly and accurately detecting defects on the outer surface and edges.

[0114] Below, based on the above description and reference Figures 13 to 24b A device for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure is described. The device for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can according to the second embodiment can be configured to acquire precise images of the interior and exterior of the square can.

[0115] Figure 13 This is a block diagram of a device 2 for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. (Refer to...) Figure 13 According to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, the device 2 for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can may include a loading unit 30a, an internal inspector 10a, an external inspector 20a, and an unloading unit 40a.

[0116] According to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, the device 2 for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can is configured to perform the inspection by continuously transporting the square can in a collinear manner through various inspection positions.

[0117] The loading section 30a is configured to load multiple square tanks transferred from the outside.

[0118] The internal inspector 10a is configured to perform an inspection on the interior of a square can that has been transferred to the internal inspection location. The internal inspector 10a can shine light into the interior of the square can and acquire an image, thereby checking for internal defects.

[0119] After the inspection inside the square can is completed, the transfer unit transports the square can to the first inspection position.

[0120] External inspector 20a is configured to perform a visual inspection on the exterior of the square can. External inspector 20a is configured to perform the visual inspection while transferring the square can to a first inspection position and a second inspection position.

[0121] The unloading unit 40a is configured to sort and load inspected square cans. For example, the unloading unit 40a is configured to sort and load square cans that are free of defects and those that are defective, respectively.

[0122] On the other hand, according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, the interior or exterior of the square can is configured to be selectively supported or held during the transfer and inspection of the square can.

[0123] However, the widely used configuration can be used for the transmission unit, loading unit 30a and unloading unit 40a, and therefore further detailed description of it will be avoided.

[0124] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of an apparatus for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0125] Reference Figure 14 According to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, the device 2 for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can performs an inspection on the square can that has been transferred from the loading unit 30a in the internal inspector 10a.

[0126] The internal inspector 10a may include multiple mirrors to obtain an image of the interior of the square can. Furthermore, coaxial illumination can be used to illuminate the interior of the can and obtain an image. In this case, the angle and / or position of the mirrors can be adjusted to obtain a precise image of the side near the bottom surface (inner bottom surface), thereby acquiring the image.

[0127] The transfer unit is configured to transfer the square can by picking up the interior of the square can that has already undergone internal inspection. When the can picked up by the transfer unit moves to the external inspector 20a, an external inspection of the square can is performed.

[0128] The external inspector 20a may include a large surface inspector 100 and a small surface inspector 200. The large surface inspector 100 is configured to capture images of a pair of large external surfaces. The small surface inspector 200 is configured to capture images of a pair of small external surfaces. This has already been described in the first embodiment, and therefore redundant descriptions will be omitted.

[0129] Furthermore, as in the first embodiment, according to the second embodiment, the bottom surface inspector 300 can be configured to capture images of the bottom surface. Again, this has already been described above, so redundant descriptions will be omitted.

[0130] On the other hand, while maintaining the transport direction of the square can, the transport unit can transport the square can from the large surface inspector 100 to the small surface inspector 200 while changing the orientation of the square can by 90 degrees.

[0131] On the other hand, although not shown, the square cans that have been inspected can be sorted and loaded into the unloading unit 40a according to the inspection results.

[0132] Below, we will refer to Figures 15 to 24b An internal checker according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

[0133] Now refer to it again Figure 1In the description of the internal inspector, the large surface may refer to the internal large surface 1110, the small surface may refer to the internal small surface 1120, and the bottom surface may refer to the internal bottom surface 1130.

[0134] In a second embodiment of this disclosure, the internal inspector 10a is configured to perform visual inspections on the large surface 1110, small surface 1120, and bottom surface 1130 of the interior, thereby accurately detecting defects.

[0135] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the internal inspector according to a second embodiment of this disclosure. Furthermore, Figure 16 This is an exploded perspective view of the internal inspector in a second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0136] Reference Figure 15 and Figure 16 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an internal inspector 10a for a square can 1000 is configured to distinguish between the large surface 1110 and the small surface 1120 of the square can 1000 and actively adjust the angle of the mirror to obtain an accurate image of the interior.

[0137] The internal inspector 10a may include a base 100a, a mounting frame 120a, a placement unit 110a, a large surface imaging module 130a, and a small surface imaging module 140a.

[0138] The base 100a is formed to extend in the horizontal direction and serves as a base for placing other components thereon according to this disclosure.

[0139] Mounting frame 120a is configured to mount large surface imaging module 130a and small surface imaging module 140a thereon. Mounting frame 120a mounts large surface imaging module 130a and small surface imaging module 140a above a predetermined height. Mounting frame 120a can be configured to have several layers. Depending on the height, mounting frame 120a can be equipped with a mirror (described later) or a camera. However, Figure 15 and Figure 16 The frame shown is merely an example and can have various shapes that can accommodate cameras and / or mirrors.

[0140] The placement unit 110a is configured to place a square can 1000 thereon. The placement unit 110a is configured such that the square can 1000 can be placed with its opening facing the camera. As an example, the placement unit 110a can allow at least one can for a secondary battery to be placed at predetermined intervals. Furthermore, the placement unit 110a can be moved horizontally on the base 100a via a placement unit adjuster, allowing the square can 1000 to be positioned at an internal inspection location.

[0141] The placement unit adjuster may include a placement unit horizontal actuator 111a, a placement unit vertical actuator 112a, and a clamp 113a. The placement unit horizontal actuator 111a and the placement unit vertical actuator 112a may be configured to adjust the horizontal or vertical position of the placement unit 110a, and may be configured as linear moving parts, such as a linear motor.

[0142] The clamp 113a is configured to hold the square can 1000 and can be selectively operated by a controller. The clamp 113a can selectively hold the square can 1000 from the outside.

[0143] The mounting unit adjuster can operate to move the square tank 1000 to an internal inspection position without interfering with the mirror (described later). The internal inspection position can be a space defined by the mounting frame 120a, for example, the underside of the mounting frame 120a.

[0144] The large surface imaging module 130a is configured to capture images of a pair of large surfaces and a bottom surface on the inner surface of the square tank 1000. The large surface imaging module 130a may include a first camera (first internal camera module) 131a, a first internal coaxial illumination unit 132a, a first mirror 133a, and a first mirror adjuster 134a.

[0145] The first camera 131a can directly capture images of the bottom surface of the tank 1000. Alternatively, the first camera 131a can be configured to capture images of the large surface 1110 reflected from the mirror.

[0146] The first internal coaxial illumination unit 132a can be configured to illuminate the interior of the tank 1000. The first internal coaxial illumination unit 132a can be vertically disposed above the tank 1000. The first internal coaxial illumination unit 132a may include a first illumination unit (not shown) and a semi-reflective mirror (not shown) disposed at a position offset from the optical axis of the first camera 131a.

[0147] Multiple first illumination units (not shown) can be configured, and the multiple first illumination units can be configured to emit light at different locations, and can also be configured to operate independently.

[0148] The first mirrors 133a form a pair, and the pair of first mirrors 133a can be configured to reflect different large surfaces 1110 toward the first camera 131a.

[0149] The first mirror adjusters 134a form a pair, and each first mirror adjuster 134a can be configured to adjust the position and / or angle of the first mirror 133a. Through the operation of the first mirror adjusters 134a, the angle at which the first camera 131a observes the large surface 1110 of the tank 1000 changes according to the height.

[0150] The small surface imaging module 140a may include a pair of second cameras (second internal camera modules) 141a, which acquire images as the spacing between the small surfaces 1120 increases.

[0151] In this case, it is possible to consider using a single camera to capture images of both the small surface 1120 and the large surface 1110. However, due to limitations such as the reflection angle of the mirror and interference with the first camera 131a of the large surface imaging module 130a, it is preferable to use multiple cameras. Therefore, the small surface imaging modules 140a are configured as a pair, and the second camera 141a is positioned vertically above the second mirror 143a to increase the angle at which the second camera 141a observes the small surface 1120.

[0152] Specifically, the small surface imaging module 140a is configured to inspect the pair of small surfaces 1120. The small surface imaging module 140a may include a second camera 141a, a second internal coaxial illumination unit 142a, a second mirror 143a, and a second mirror adjuster 144a. The small surface imaging modules 140a are configured as a pair and are configured to capture images of different small surfaces 1120 respectively.

[0153] On the other hand, the second internal coaxial lighting unit 142a may include a plurality of second lighting units (not shown) similar to the first internal coaxial lighting unit 132a. Furthermore, the plurality of second lighting units may be configured to operate independently at different locations.

[0154] However, the above configuration is merely an example, and the configuration according to alternative embodiments may include a pair of large surface imaging modules 130a and a single small surface imaging module 140a.

[0155] As described above, according to this disclosure, each of the large surface imaging module 130a and the small surface imaging module 140a may include a mirror and a mirror adjuster. In this case, the size and shape of the first mirror 133a and the second mirror 143a may be the same or different. Furthermore, the first mirror adjuster 134a and the second mirror adjuster 144a may have similar configurations and may each be configured to adjust the angle of the mirror as well as its vertical and horizontal positions.

[0156] For ease of description, the configuration of the first mirror 133a and the first mirror adjuster 134a, which are set at a high position, will be described below.

[0157] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of the first mirror and the first mirror adjuster in the second embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 18 This is an exploded perspective view of the first mirror adjuster in the second embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 19 This is an operational state diagram illustrating the angle adjustment operation of the first mirror adjuster in the second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0158] Reference Figures 17 to 18 The first mirror adjuster 134a may include a first horizontal actuator 136a, a first vertical actuator 135a, and a first rotary actuator 137a. One side of the first vertical actuator 135a may be fixed to the mounting frame 120a. The first horizontal actuator 136a may be located on the other side of the first vertical actuator 135a. The first rotary actuator 137a may be located at the end of the first horizontal actuator 136a. The first rotary actuator 137a may include a linkage mechanism and may be designed to ultimately adjust the angle of the mirror as a linear motion. However, this is merely an example, and the first rotary actuator 137a may have various structures capable of adjusting the angle.

[0159] On the other hand, although not shown, similar to the structure of the first mirror adjuster 134a, the structure of the second mirror adjuster 144a may also include a second vertical actuator 145a, a second horizontal actuator 146a, and a second rotary actuator 147a.

[0160] Reference Figure 19 This illustrates how the operation of the first mirror adjuster 134a causes a change in the mirror's center and an adjustment in its angle. The operation of the first mirror adjuster 134a can be linked (associated) with the operation of the first camera 131a. When the first camera 131a captures images of the upper, middle, and lower regions of the large surface 1110, the first mirror adjuster 134a can adjust the position and / or angle of the first mirror 133a. Furthermore, the amount of position movement and / or angle adjustment can vary depending on changes in the size or shape of the container.

[0161] On the other hand, although not shown, the second mirror adjuster 144a can also operate in a similar manner to the first mirror adjuster 134a.

[0162] Figure 20 This is a view illustrating the operation of the large surface imaging module in a second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0163] Reference Figure 20When the first internal coaxial illumination unit 132a is operated, the first camera 131a can capture images of the bottom surface 1130 of the vertically downward-placed can 1000 and the images of the pair of large surfaces 1110 reflected on the pair of first mirrors 133a. In this case, compared with capturing the bottom surface 1130, images can be acquired by adjusting the focus to a greater distance when capturing the first mirrors 133a.

[0164] Furthermore, the first lens adjuster 134a can adjust the angle of the first lens 133a, thereby enabling the capture of images of the lower and upper regions of the large surface 1110. Additionally, the position of the first lens 133a can be adjusted. Although not shown, the controller can perform control by analyzing images acquired from the image processor. The image processor can analyze the image and determine whether the angle and orientation of the first lens 133a need to be adjusted. Furthermore, the image processor can determine whether the focal length needs to be adjusted. The controller can operate the first lens adjuster 134a or adjust the focal length of the first camera 131a based on values ​​received from the image processor.

[0165] Figure 21 This is a view illustrating the operation of the small surface imaging module in a second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0166] Reference Figure 21 Each of the small surface imaging modules 140a captures an image of the small surface 1120. In this case, by illuminating light while operating the second internal coaxial illumination unit 142a and adjusting the orientation of the second mirror 143a, the small surface imaging module 140a can be controlled to capture images of the upper region and the lower region of the small surface 1120. On the other hand, the image processor can adjust the position and orientation of the second mirror 143a based on the acquired images. In addition, the focus of the second camera 141a can be adjusted based on the images acquired by the image processor.

[0167] Figure 22a This is a diagram illustrating the imaging area of ​​the large surface imaging module in the second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0168] Reference Figure 22a When capturing an image of the upper region, the large surface imaging module 130a can change the upward tilt angle of the first mirror 133a. That is, in this case, the first mirror adjuster 134a can operate with a gentle tilt. In this case, the maximum angle of the first mirror 133a can vary depending on the shape of the tank 1000 and the positions of the first camera 131a and the first mirror 133a.

[0169] The first lens adjuster 134a can adjust the angle of the first lens 133a, so that the tilt angle of the first lens 133a can be increased when capturing images of the lower region. In addition, when capturing images of the upper and lower parts of the large surface 1110, the first lens adjuster 134a can adjust the vertical and / or horizontal position of the first lens 133a.

[0170] On the other hand, although not shown, when capturing an image of the large surface 1110, the first mirror adjuster 134a can adjust the angle of the first mirror 133a multiple times. Each time the angle of the first mirror 133a is adjusted, the focus of the first camera 131a is adjusted, thereby acquiring an image.

[0171] As an example, the large surface imaging module 130a can acquire images of regions with different heights by adjusting the pair of first mirror adjusters 134a three times. As an example, the first camera 131a can acquire images of the upper region, the middle region, and the lower region of the pair of large surfaces 1110.

[0172] Figure 22b This is a diagram illustrating the imaging area of ​​the small surface imaging module in the second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0173] Reference Figure 22b According to a second embodiment of this disclosure, the pair of small surface imaging modules 140a can acquire images of the small surface 1120 by symmetrically adjusting the second mirror adjuster 144a. The pair of second cameras 141a are configured to capture images of the opposite small surface 1120 respectively. In this case, when capturing images of the upper and lower regions of the small surface 1120, the angle and position of the second mirror 143a can be adjusted.

[0174] On the other hand, the second camera 141a can acquire multiple images while the angle and / or position of the second mirror 143a is fixed. In this case, each image can be acquired whenever the emission combination of the second illumination unit is changed. By combining multiple images taken at a single angle of the mirror, the detection accuracy based on image analysis can be improved.

[0175] Figure 23a and Figure 23b The image is taken based on the operation of the large surface imaging module in the second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0176] Reference Figure 23aAccording to a second embodiment of this disclosure, the large surface imaging module 130a can adjust the position and / or angle of the pair of first mirrors 133a to capture an image of the upper region of the large surface 1110. Therefore, the image Ia of the large surface 1110 is acquired by the first cameras 131a as if they were captured at a large angle (nearly perpendicular to the large surface 1110).

[0177] Reference Figure 23b According to embodiments of this disclosure, the large surface imaging module 130a can increase the angle of the pair of first mirrors 133a to capture the lower region of the large surface 1110. Additionally, the position of the first mirrors 133a can be adjusted. Therefore, the first camera 131a is able to capture an image Ib of the side surface, which shows the internal depth of the tank.

[0178] Figure 24a and Figure 24b The image is taken based on the operation of the small surface imaging module in the second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0179] Reference Figure 24a According to the present disclosure, the small surface imaging module 140a can acquire an image Ic of the small surface 1120, as if the upper region of the small surface 1120 were observed and photographed by a camera at a large angle.

[0180] Reference Figure 24b By adjusting the second mirror adjuster 144a, the second camera 141a can acquire the image ID of the small surface 1120, as if observing the small surface 1120 at a small angle, and acquire the image of the lower internal region. In other words, the small surface imaging module 140a acquires images observed from different angles depending on the height of the small surface 1120.

[0181] The above reference Figure 24a and Figure 24b The acquisition of the described image can be performed simultaneously by the pair of second cameras 141a, the pair of second mirrors 143a, and the pair of second mirror adjusters 144a for the pair of small surfaces 1120.

[0182] As described above, the internal inspector 10a according to the second embodiment of this disclosure can acquire images as if they were taken from various angles while the square tank 1000 is stopped at the inspection position.

[0183] On the other hand, similar to the first embodiment, the “large surface” to be inspected by the external inspector of the second embodiment can refer to the external large surface 1210, the small surface can refer to the external small surface 1220, and the bottom surface can refer to the external bottom surface 1230.

[0184] In this case, return to reference Figure 14 The external inspector 20a in the device 2 for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can according to the second embodiment may include a large surface inspector 100, a small surface inspector 200, and a bottom surface inspector 300 according to the first embodiment. Furthermore, referring again... Figure 2 The external inspector 20a according to the second embodiment may include the transmission unit 10 according to the first embodiment to pick up and transmit the square can 1000.

[0185] In other words, the external inspector 20a of the device 2 for inspecting the appearance of the square battery can according to the second embodiment can be provided with the components according to the first embodiment, or can be implemented by a device that operates substantially the same or similarly thereto. Therefore, the description of the external inspector 20a according to the second embodiment will be omitted to avoid redundancy.

[0186] The apparatus for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can according to this disclosure has improved accuracy in detecting defects on the edges and on multiple outer surfaces.

[0187] Furthermore, the apparatus for inspecting the appearance of a square battery can according to this disclosure can acquire precise images of the can's interior and exterior, thus improving inspection accuracy based on the acquired precise images. Moreover, appearance inspection is performed while minimizing changes in the square can's posture and movement, thereby ensuring inspection efficiency.

[0188] [Figure Labels]

[0189] 1000: Square jar

[0190] 1110, 1210: Large surface area

[0191] 1120, 1220: Small surfaces

[0192] 1130, 1230: Bottom surface

[0193] e: edge

[0194] 1, 2: Equipment for inspecting the appearance of square battery cans; 100: Large surface inspector.

[0195] 110: First shell

[0196] 120: First camera module

[0197] 130: First coaxial illumination unit

[0198] 131: Beam splitter

[0199] 140: First Ambient Lighting Department

[0200] 200: Small Surface Inspector

[0201] 210: Second shell

[0202] 220: Second camera module

[0203] 230: Second coaxial lighting unit

[0204] 240: Second Ambient Lighting Department

[0205] 241: Second Ambient Lighting Unit

[0206] 300: Bottom Surface Inspector

[0207] 310: Third shell

[0208] 320: Third camera module

[0209] 330: Third coaxial lighting unit

[0210] 10: Transmission Unit

[0211] 20: Hands

Claims

1. An apparatus for inspecting a square can having a long side and a short side, the apparatus comprising: a pair of large surface inspectors spaced apart by a first interval such that the square can can enter a first inspection position with a small surface thereof having the short side first, and the pair of large surface inspectors are configured to take images from facing directions; and a pair of small surface inspectors spaced apart by a second interval such that the square can can enter a second inspection position with a large surface thereof having the long side first, and the pair of small surface inspectors are configured to take images from facing directions.

2. The apparatus for inspecting square cans according to claim 1, wherein, Each large surface inspector comprises: a first camera module configured to take an image of the large surface; a first coaxial illumination part configured to irradiate light coaxially with the first camera module; and a first ambient illumination part configured to irradiate light at an angle of less than 45 degrees with respect to the large surface.

3. The apparatus for inspecting square cans according to claim 2, wherein, The first ambient illumination part comprises at least one first ambient illumination unit that emits surface light along a surface perpendicular to the large surface.

4. The apparatus for inspecting square cans according to claim 3, wherein, The first ambient illumination part comprises at least four first ambient illumination units disposed in four directions along an edge of the large surface.

5. The apparatus for inspecting square cans according to claim 4, wherein, The first ambient illumination unit is disposed outside of an area irradiated with light by the first coaxial illumination part. 6.The apparatus for inspecting a square can according to claim 5, further comprising a housing configured to comprise: a side having a cross-sectional area configured as a first area, and formed with a hole at a central portion to enable image taking by the camera module, and another side having a cross-sectional area configured as a second area larger than the first area, and the ambient illumination unit is disposed inside a side wall. 7.The apparatus for inspecting a square can according to claim 6, further comprising a bottom surface inspector disposed below the large surface inspector and configured to acquire an image of a bottom surface of the square can.

8. The apparatus for inspecting square cans according to claim 7, wherein, Each of the small surface inspectors comprises: a second camera module configured to take an image of the small surface; a second coaxial illumination part configured to irradiate light coaxially with the second camera module; and a second ambient illumination part configured to irradiate light at an angle of less than 45 degrees with respect to the small surface. 9.The apparatus for inspecting a square can according to claim 8, further comprising a transport unit having a side inserted into the square can and configured to pick up the square can, and the transport unit is configured to move the square can horizontally while picking up the square can. 10.The apparatus for inspecting a square can according to claim 1, further comprising: a seating unit configured to transport the square can to an internal inspection position; and a an internal inspector configured to inspect an interior of the square can placed at the internal inspection position, wherein the internal inspector includes: a large surface imaging module configured to take an image of an interior large surface of the square can disposed at the internal inspection position; and a small surface imaging module configured to take an image of an interior small surface of the square can disposed at the internal inspection position, and wherein each of the large surface imaging module and the small surface imaging module includes a mirror whose angle and position are adjustable.

11. The apparatus for inspecting a square can according to claim 10, wherein: the large surface imaging module includes a first camera, a first internal coaxial illumination portion, a first mirror, and a first mirror adjuster, the small surface imaging module includes a second camera, a second internal coaxial illumination portion, a second mirror, and a second mirror adjuster, the first mirror adjuster is configured to adjust at least one of a position and an angle of the first mirror, and the second mirror adjuster is configured to adjust at least one of a position and an angle of the second mirror.

12. The apparatus for inspecting square cans according to claim 11, wherein, the first mirror and the first mirror adjuster are each provided as a pair to take an image of a pair of the large surfaces.

13. Apparatus for inspecting square cans according to claim 12, wherein, the small surface imaging module is configured to acquire images observed at different angles according to a height of the small surface by adjusting at least one of the angle and the position of the mirror.

14. Apparatus for inspecting square cans according to claim 13, wherein, the small surface imaging module is provided as a pair.

15. Apparatus for inspecting square cans according to claim 14, wherein, the first mirrors provided as a pair are each provided outside a pair of the interior large surfaces and are each provided to be inclined toward an upper side at a prescribed angle. the small surface imaging module is provided as a pair. the first mirrors provided as a pair are each provided outside a pair of the interior large surfaces and are each provided to be inclined toward an upper side at a prescribed angle.

Images