Piece supply system of sorting machine and related device
By using multi-dimensional separation and automatic screening in the sorting machine's component supply system, the problem of congestion at the entrance of the cross-belt sorting machine was solved, achieving efficient item sorting and abnormal component detection, and improving the stability and efficiency of the sorting machine's component supply.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-11-11
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-13
AI Technical Summary
Existing cross-belt sorting machines are prone to inlet congestion when the volume of items increases, affecting the stability of item feeding and sorting efficiency. Manual feeding mode is inefficient and difficult to handle complex item flow and abnormal items.
The sorting machine feeding system includes an input module, a first separation module, a second separation module, a feeding table, and a collection module. Through the separation methods of the first and second dimensions, it ensures that items are quickly broken down into individual pieces. The system also uses a vision module and a control unit to dynamically adjust the separation speed and direction, thereby achieving automatic screening and sorting of items.
It improves the stability and efficiency of item sorting, reduces manual operation, ensures that items enter the sorting machine in single-item form, avoids congestion, and enhances the automation level and abnormal item detection capability of the sorting machine.
Smart Images
Figure CN121649152A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This specification relates to the field of computer application technology, specifically to the control technology of a feeding device in the field of computer application technology, and more specifically to the feeding system of a sorting machine and related devices. Background Technology
[0002] In recent years, with the rapid development of e-commerce and express delivery, cross-belt small parcel sorting machines have gained an absolute advantage in sorting small parcels in multiple directions. Currently, most cross-belt sorting machines use a manual feeding mode. However, with the increase in the volume of items, manual feeding may lead to congestion at the sorting machine entrance, affecting the stability of item feeding and the sorting efficiency. Summary of the Invention
[0003] This specification provides embodiments of a sorting machine's feeding system and related devices to improve the efficiency of item sorting.
[0004] To achieve the above technical objectives, the embodiments of this specification provide the following technical solutions: In a first aspect, one embodiment of this specification provides a feeding system for a sorting machine, the feeding system including at least one feeding device, the feeding device comprising: Input module, first separation module, second separation module, feeding station and collection module; The input module is used to receive items to be sorted and input the items to be sorted into the first separation module. The items to be sorted are input after the target object performs an unpacking operation. The first separation module is used to separate the items to be sorted from a first dimension, and input the separated items to be sorted into the second separation module; The second separation module is used to separate the items to be sorted from the first separation module from the second dimension to obtain individual items, and then input the individual items into the feeding station in sequence. The first dimension and the second dimension correspond to different spatial dimensions. The feeding station is used to pick the individual items one by one and input the picked individual items into the collection module; The collection module is used to input the picked single items into the sorting machine, and the sorting machine executes the item sorting process associated with the unpacking operation.
[0005] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the input module includes: Input port, output port, and spiral groove; The input port is used to receive the items to be sorted that are poured out by the target object during the unpacking operation, and the output port is connected to the first separation module; The spiral groove is used to connect the input port and the output port, and the spiral groove includes at least one spiral section.
[0006] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the first separation module is configured with a first vision module, and the process by which the first separation module separates the items to be sorted from a first dimension includes: Obtain the transportation status information of the first separation module collected by the first vision module; Configure separation speed parameters based on the aforementioned transportation status information; The first separation module is controlled to separate the items to be sorted from the first dimension according to the separation speed parameter.
[0007] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the first separation module includes at least one ramp separation section; The ramp separation section is used to lift the items to be sorted on a slope during transportation, and then drop them down via a gradient after being lifted.
[0008] Optionally, in one possible implementation, configuring the separation speed parameter based on the transport status information includes: Obtain the sorting load information corresponding to the sorting machine; Configure speed adjustment parameters based on the sorting load information; Configure the separation speed parameters based on the transportation status information and the speed adjustment parameters.
[0009] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the second separation module is configured with a second vision module. The second separation module performs item separation on the items to be sorted input from the first separation module from a second dimension to obtain individual items, including: The second vision module acquires image information of the items to be sorted from the first separation module. In response to the object edge in the image information entering the separation area corresponding to the second separation module, the separation parameters are invoked; The second separation module is controlled to execute separation parameters to separate the items to be sorted from the second dimension, as input by the first separation module, to obtain individual items.
[0010] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the feeding station is equipped with a third vision module, and the process of the feeding station picking each individual item includes: The third vision module performs image recognition on the single item to determine detection information; If the detection information indicates that the single item is abnormal, then the single item is transported to the recycling module along the first direction of the feeding platform; If the detection information indicates that the single item is not abnormal, then the single item is transported to the collection module along the second direction of the supply table, where the first direction is opposite to the second direction.
[0011] Optionally, in one possible implementation, an import module is also included between the second separation module and the supply station; The transport direction of the import module for a single item is the same as that of the second separation module, but the transport direction of the import module for a single item is not perpendicular to the transport direction of the supply table for a single item.
[0012] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the feeding system includes multiple feeding devices, and the collection modules corresponding to different feeding devices converge at the input port of the sorting machine.
[0013] Secondly, one embodiment of this specification provides a component supply control device, comprising: The acquisition unit is used to acquire the transportation status information of the first separation module collected by the first vision module; The control unit is used to configure the separation speed parameters based on the transport status information; The control unit is used to control the first separation module to separate the items to be sorted from the first dimension according to the separation speed parameter.
[0014] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the control unit is further configured to acquire sorting load information corresponding to the sorting machine; The control unit is also used to configure speed adjustment parameters based on the sorting load information; The control unit is also configured to configure the separation speed parameters based on the transportation status information and the speed adjustment parameters.
[0015] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the control unit is further configured to acquire image information of the items to be sorted input by the first separation module through the second vision module; The control unit is also configured to invoke separation parameters in response to the object edge in the image information entering the separation area corresponding to the second separation module; The control unit is also used to control the second separation module to execute separation parameters, and to separate the items to be sorted input by the first separation module from the second dimension to obtain a single item.
[0016] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the control unit is further configured to perform image recognition on the single item through the third vision module to determine detection information; The control unit is further configured to transport the single item to the recycling module along the first direction of the feeding platform if the detection information indicates that the single item is an abnormal item; The control unit is further configured to, if the detection information indicates that the single item is a non-abnormal item, transport the single item to the collection module along the second direction of the feeding platform, wherein the first direction is opposite to the second direction.
[0017] Thirdly, one embodiment of this specification also provides a computing device including a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the processor, when executing the computer program, implements the feeding system of the sorting machine as described above.
[0018] Fourthly, one embodiment of this specification also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the feeding system of the sorting machine as described above.
[0019] Fifthly, embodiments of this specification provide a computer program product or computer program, the computer program product including a computer program that can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or in the cloud; the processor of the computer device reads the computer program, and when the processor executes the computer program, it implements the steps of the sorting machine's feeding system described above.
[0020] As can be seen from the above technical solution, the part feeding system of the sorting machine provided in the embodiments of this specification includes at least one part feeding device, which includes an input module, a first separation module, a second separation module, a part feeding platform, and a collection module. The input module is used to receive items to be sorted and input the items to be sorted into the first separation module. The items to be sorted are input after the target object performs an unpacking operation. The first separation module is used to separate the items to be sorted from a first dimension and input the separated items to be sorted into the second separation module. The second separation module is used to separate the items to be sorted input from the first separation module from a second dimension to obtain single items and input the single items into the part feeding platform in sequence. The first dimension and the second dimension correspond to different spatial dimensions. The part feeding platform is used to pick the single items separately and input the picked single items into the collection module. The collection module is used to input the picked single items into the sorting machine and execute the item sorting process associated with the unpacking operation through the sorting machine. By separating items in different spatial ways using the first and second dimensions, the items to be sorted are input into the sorting machine as individual items, avoiding item congestion and improving the stability of the supply and the efficiency of item sorting. Attached Figure Description
[0021] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments or prior art of this specification, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only embodiments of this specification. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the provided drawings without creative effort.
[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the feeding system of a sorting machine provided for one embodiment of this specification.
[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the feeding system of another sorting machine provided for one embodiment of this specification.
[0024] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the control architecture of a component feeding device provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0025] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the functional modules of a component control device provided in one embodiment of this specification.
[0026] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a computing device provided for one embodiment of this specification. Detailed Implementation
[0027] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in the embodiments of this specification shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this specification pertains. The terms "first," "second," and similar terms used in the embodiments of this specification do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to avoid confusion of constituent elements.
[0028] Unless the context otherwise requires, throughout this specification, "a plurality of" means "at least two," and "including" is interpreted as open-ended or encompassing, that is, "including, but not limited to." In the description of this specification, terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "exemplary embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples" are intended to indicate that a particular feature, structure, material, or characteristic associated with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this specification. The illustrative representations of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example.
[0029] In recent years, with the rapid development of e-commerce and express delivery, cross-belt small parcel sorting machines have gained an absolute advantage in multi-directional small parcel sorting, and most cross-belt sorting machines currently use manual feeding. However, with the increase in the volume of goods, manual feeding may lead to congestion at the sorting machine entrance, affecting the stability of item feeding and sorting efficiency. Furthermore, due to high flow demands, complex item types, and immature technology, the automatic feeding efficiency of the single-zone feeding device is required to be high. The centralized unpacking and conveying of loose items at the front end results in high clamping damage to small items on the conveyor. The single-zone unpacking capacity is large, leading to severe stacking and compression of parcels, low success rate of separating stacked and single items, significant variations in parcel compression morphology, numerous wrinkles on waybills, and poor performance on the loop line. High single-zone capacity and fast parcel conveying speed result in high capacity loss. The ability to reject abnormal items is weak, and the rate of missorting and backflow of abnormal items after they are loaded onto the machine increases, affecting sorting efficiency.
[0030] To address the aforementioned problems, this application proposes a feeding system for a sorting machine. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a part feeding system for a sorting machine provided in an embodiment of this application. The part feeding system in this embodiment includes at least one part feeding device. The composition of a single part feeding device will be described below.
[0031] The feeding device includes: The module consists of an input module, a first separation module, a second separation module, a feeding station, and a collection module.
[0032] Specifically, the input module receives items to be sorted and inputs them into the first separation module. The items to be sorted are input after the target object performs an unpacking operation. The target object can be a warehouse worker or a mechanical device with handling function, such as an intelligent robotic arm or a robot. The unpacking operation, in this embodiment, refers to the items to be sorted, which are general terms for items in the logistics industry such as express parcels and express delivery. Since items are generally transported in a centralized manner using logistics transfer bags in logistics scenarios, the unpacking operation is the release operation of items from logistics transfer bags or devices with similar loading functions.
[0033] Furthermore, the first separation module is used to separate the items to be sorted from the first dimension and input the separated items to be sorted into the second separation module; wherein, the first dimension is the vertical dimension, which is used to indicate the stacking state of the items. The first separation module can eliminate the stacking of the items to be sorted in the vertical direction; the stacking description can be complete stacking or partial stacking, and the specific stacking method depends on the actual scenario.
[0034] In addition, the second separation module is used to separate the items to be sorted from the first separation module in the second dimension to obtain individual items, and then input the individual items into the feeding station in sequence. The first dimension and the second dimension correspond to different spatial dimensions; the second dimension is the horizontal dimension, and its separation purpose is to process the items to be sorted into a sequence of individual items so that the subsequent screening and sorting process can be performed in sequence.
[0035] The feeding station is used to pick individual items and input the picked items into the collection module; the collection module is used to input the picked items into the sorting machine, and the sorting machine performs the unpacking operation associated with the item sorting process.
[0036] The aforementioned feeding device separates items from different dimensions through the first separation module and the second separation module, ensuring that the items are quickly and thoroughly decomposed into individual pieces, significantly improving separation efficiency and reducing manual operation.
[0037] In one possible scenario, the input module can be a linear, polygonal, or other possible shape input device. To slow down the falling object, it can be configured as a spiral shape. Therefore, the input module includes: The system includes an input port, an output port, and a spiral chute. The input port receives the items to be sorted as they are unpacked during the unpacking process of the target object. The output port is connected to the first separation module. The spiral chute connects the input port and the output port and includes at least one spiral section. Each spiral section can be a semicircle or a quarter circle, with the specific curvature depending on the actual scenario.
[0038] For example, the unpacking personnel (target object) pull small packages from the package conveyor line, open the small packages at the spiral chute, and pour the packages into the spiral chute. The accumulated goods are dispersed by the spiral turn. The spiral chute connects the input and output ports, and uses at least one spiral part to slow down the falling speed of the items, initially disperse the items, prevent impact and accumulation, solve the problem of chaos when the items are input, and ensure smooth entry into the first separation module.
[0039] In one possible scenario, the first separation module is configured with a first vision module. The process of separating the items to be sorted from the first dimension by the first separation module can be executed by a control module (not shown in the figure) associated with the first separation module. It can be a separate hardware module or written as an algorithm of the first separation module.
[0040] Specifically, the system first acquires transportation status information from the first separation module collected by the first vision module (e.g., item congestion status, package location, conveyor belt loading status, stacking status, etc.); then, it configures separation speed parameters (e.g., inching, slow, and fast speeds) based on this transportation status information; and controls the first separation module to separate the items to be sorted from the first dimension according to these speed parameters. This adapts to different logistics scenarios in terms of sorting efficiency, i.e., dynamic speed adjustment based on the vision module and sorting load, enabling the system to respond to changes in real time, balance the sorting machine load, and avoid bottlenecks.
[0041] It is understandable that, for the separation process in the first dimension, the first separation module includes at least one ramp separation section; that is, the separation process in the first dimension is achieved through ramping and gradients. Specifically, the ramp separation section is used to lift the items to be sorted along a ramp during transport, and then lower them down along a gradient. By employing the ramp separation section for ramp lifting and gradient lowering, items are separated from the first dimension (e.g., the height direction). A first vision module is configured to collect transport status information and dynamically adjust the separation speed parameters based on this information and sorting load information. This achieves initial separation and optimizes the speed according to real-time conditions, avoiding overload or idling, and improving system adaptability.
[0042] In addition, considering that the purpose of the parts supply is to cooperate with the sorting machine, the process of configuring the separation speed parameters based on the transportation status information can take into account its requirements; that is, firstly obtain the sorting load information corresponding to the sorting machine; then configure the speed adjustment parameters based on the sorting load information; and finally configure the separation speed parameters based on the transportation status information and the speed adjustment parameters.
[0043] As can be seen, when scattered parcels pass through the stacking separation section, the location of the parcels, the load status of the conveyor belt, and the stacking status are visually determined, and the conveyor signal is sent to the conveyor belt (the conveyor status is divided into inching, slow speed, and fast speed). The appropriate speed is output according to the visual status (fast speed is used for downstream replenishment mode, slow speed is used for slow replenishment when there is goods or empty space downstream, and inching speed is mostly used for separation of the current stacking). The stacking separation conveyor is controlled to flexibly eliminate the stacking of parcels by using different speeds for different states through parcel climbing and step drop.
[0044] In one possible scenario, the second separation module is configured with a second vision module. The second separation module separates the items to be sorted from the input of the first separation module from the second dimension to obtain a single item. This process includes: it can be executed by a control module (not shown in the figure) associated with the second separation module, which can be a separate hardware module or written as an algorithm of the second separation module.
[0045] Specifically, the process of separating items in the second dimension involves acquiring image information of the items to be sorted from the first separation module through the second vision module; then, in response to the edge of the item in the image information entering the separation area corresponding to the second separation module, the separation parameters are called; and then the second separation module is controlled to execute the separation parameters to separate the items to be sorted from the first separation module in the second dimension to obtain a single item.
[0046] The second vision module acquires images of the objects and detects when the object's edge enters the separation area. Separation parameters are then invoked to control the separation operation in the second dimension (such as the width direction). This ensures that the objects are completely separated into individual pieces, reducing missed separations or adhesion.
[0047] In one possible scenario, the feeding station is equipped with a third vision module. The process of the feeding station picking individual items includes: it can be executed by a control module (not shown in the figure) associated with the feeding station, which can be a separate hardware module or written into the feeding station's algorithm. The third vision module and the second vision module can be configured as the same module; that is, the second vision module is located at the exit of the second separation module. It can detect the horizontal distribution of the items to be sorted and identify the shape information of each item to be sorted for defective item screening.
[0048] Specifically, for the picking of individual items, i.e., the screening process for abnormal items, a third-vision module performs image recognition on the individual item to determine detection information. If the detection information indicates that the individual item is abnormal, it is transported to the recycling module along the first direction of the feeding platform; if the detection information indicates that the individual item is not abnormal, it is transported to the collection module along the second direction of the feeding platform, with the first direction being the opposite of the second direction. For example, an automatic feeding platform equipped with a camera at the front end identifies abnormal (NC) items, stacked items, oversized items, and other abnormal express items, and then controls the conveyor to reverse, rejecting the abnormal items to the tail collection chute (recycling module), and transferring them to the manual sorting area for sorting.
[0049] Alternatively, the third vision module and the second vision module can be different modules; that is, the third vision module can be configured for the feeding station. Furthermore, to improve the accuracy of visual inspection, the third vision module can be configured at the bottom of the feeding station. That is, the third vision module is configured to perform image recognition, detect abnormal items (such as damaged or incorrect items), and transport the items in opposite directions based on the results (first direction towards the recycling module, second direction towards the collection module).
[0050] As can be seen, the defective item detection and recycling mechanism at the feeding station ensures that the sorting machine only processes qualified items, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. It automatically filters out defective items, guaranteeing that only qualified items enter the sorting machine and improving sorting accuracy.
[0051] In one possible scenario, an import module is also included between the second separation module and the supply station; the import module's transport direction for a single item is consistent with the transport direction of the second separation module, but the transport direction of the import module for a single item is not perpendicular to the transport direction of the supply station for a single item.
[0052] By setting up an import module between the second separation module and the supply platform, ensuring a consistent transportation direction and a non-right-angle connection with the supply platform, sudden changes in direction during item transport can be reduced, preventing jamming and damage, and improving logistics smoothness. This means that the oblique import of packages is smooth and without tumbling, with minimal jumping and displacement deviation at the package connection point, a small range of package posture changes, and a low probability of packages exceeding the edge after loading.
[0053] In one possible scenario, since sorting requirements may differ in different logistics scenarios, the feeding device in this embodiment can be easily expanded. That is, the feeding system includes multiple feeding devices, and the collection modules corresponding to different feeding devices converge at the input port of the sorting machine. For example... Figure 2 As shown, Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of a feeding system for another sorting machine, provided as one embodiment of this specification. Collection modules of multiple feeding devices converge at different input ports of the sorting machine, and recycling modules corresponding to different feeding devices are interconnected. Multiple feeding devices operate in parallel, converging at the sorting machine, supporting high-capacity sorting scenarios (such as e-commerce logistics centers) and easily handling peak traffic. This modular design makes the system easy to maintain and expand; a single module failure does not affect overall operation, thereby increasing system throughput, supporting large-scale sorting needs, and enhancing scalability.
[0054] Based on the above description of the parts supply system, the following parts supply process can be implemented: First, the unpacking personnel pull small packages from the package conveyor line and open them at spiral chute 1, pouring the packages into the spiral chute. The spiral turns disperse the accumulated goods. Then, the dispersed packages pass through the stacking separation section in batches. The position of the packages, the load status of the belt, and the stacking status are visually determined, and a conveyor signal is sent to the belt conveyor (the conveyor status is divided into inching, slow speed, and fast speed). Based on the visual status, an appropriate speed is output (fast speed is used for downstream replenishment, slow speed is used for slow replenishment when there is both goods and empty space, and inching speed is mostly used for separation of the current stacking). The stacking separation conveyor is controlled to flexibly eliminate stacking by using different speeds for different states through packages climbing and falling in stages. After the stacking is eliminated, the packages enter the single-item separation mechanism in a flat state. The shape and position of the packages are visually determined, and the packages are shaped and formed into single items at the single-item separation exit. The single items are then smoothly introduced into the automatic feeding table via an inclined guide. The automatic feeding station is equipped with a vision camera at the front end to identify abnormal express items such as NC parts, stacked parts, and oversized parts. After that, it controls the conveyor to retreat and remove the abnormal items to the tail collection chute and collection line. Express items without abnormalities enter the sorting machine for sorting operations.
[0055] As can be seen, from unpacking to the entry of the parcels into the circular sorting machine, no manual operation is required. The feeding efficiency can reach over 2000 items per hour, which is highly efficient and saves manpower. Furthermore, the feeding device has a simple structure, with mature technology for each component. The flow rate requirement of a single feeding station is low, the conveying distance is short, the stacking degree is low, and the parcels enter the loop in good condition. The feeding devices are independent of each other, the cost of a single feeding station is low, and the control is simple. It also occupies little space, allows for flexible modification of existing sites, and is convenient to set up in new sites.
[0056] In summary, the feeding system of this embodiment includes at least one feeding device, which includes an input module, a first separation module, a second separation module, a feeding platform, and a collection module. The input module receives items to be sorted and inputs them into the first separation module. The items to be sorted are input after the target object has performed an unpacking operation. The first separation module separates the items to be sorted from a first dimension and inputs the separated items into the second separation module. The second separation module separates the items to be sorted from the first separation module from a second dimension to obtain individual items, and then inputs the individual items sequentially into the feeding platform. The first and second dimensions correspond to different spatial dimensions. The feeding platform picks the individual items and inputs the picked individual items into the collection module. The collection module inputs the picked individual items into a sorting machine, which performs the item sorting process associated with the unpacking operation. By separating items from different spatial methods using the first and second dimensions, the items to be sorted are input into the sorting machine as individual items, avoiding item congestion and improving the stability of the feeding process and the efficiency of item sorting.
[0057] This method is applied to Figure 2 In the control flow framework of the feeding device shown, such as Figure 2 The diagram shown is a flowchart of the control process of a parts supply device provided in an embodiment of this application. The device sends a visual detection request to the server through a parts supply request (item input) from the terminal. The device then sequentially acquires parameters from multiple visual modules configured in the parts supply device and controls the corresponding modules to respond, thereby achieving dynamic parameter adjustment.
[0058] It is understood that the part-feeding system of the sorting machine provided in this application can be a program written into it as processing logic in a hardware system, or it can be a part-feeding control device, implementing the above-mentioned processing logic in an integrated or external manner. As one implementation, this part-feeding control device achieves dynamic optimization, maximizes efficiency, prevents congestion, and ensures smooth operation by controlling the first vision module for macroscopic state monitoring and adaptive speed adjustment to perceive the density, flow rate, and congestion status of items on the overall transport line. It also controls the second vision module for microscopic precise positioning and trigger control to identify the edge position of individual items, determine their relative relationship with the separation mechanism, achieve precise separation, realize single-item processing, and ensure gentle movements to reduce damage. Finally, it controls the third vision module to achieve item quality inspection and intelligent diversion, identifying item identity (barcode) and determining whether its status is abnormal, achieving pre-inspection to ensure the main line is secure, and automatically diverting items to improve automation.
[0059] It should be noted that the various embodiments described in this specification emphasize the parts that differ from other embodiments, and the embodiments can be explained by comparison with each other. Any combination of the various embodiments described in this specification based on general technical knowledge is covered within the scope of this specification.
[0060] In one exemplary embodiment of this specification, a supply control device 400 is also provided, such as... Figure 4 As shown, Figure 4 A functional block diagram of a supply control device provided for one embodiment of this specification, the control device 400 includes: The acquisition unit 401 is used to acquire the transportation status information of the first separation module collected by the first vision module; Control unit 402 is used to configure separation speed parameters based on the transport status information; The control unit 402 is used to control the first separation module to separate the items to be sorted from the first dimension according to the separation speed parameter.
[0061] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the control unit 402 is further configured to acquire sorting load information corresponding to the sorting machine; The control unit 402 is also used to configure speed adjustment parameters based on the sorting load information; The control unit 402 is also used to configure the separation speed parameters based on the transportation status information and the speed adjustment parameters.
[0062] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the control unit 402 is further configured to acquire image information of the items to be sorted input by the first separation module through the second vision module; The control unit 402 is also configured to invoke separation parameters in response to the object edge in the image information entering the separation area corresponding to the second separation module; The control unit 402 is also used to control the second separation module to execute separation parameters, and to separate the items to be sorted input by the first separation module from the second dimension to obtain a single item.
[0063] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the control unit 402 is further configured to perform image recognition on the single item through the third vision module to determine detection information; The control unit 402 is further configured to transport the single item to the recycling module along the first direction of the feeding platform if the detection information indicates that the single item is an abnormal item; The control unit 402 is further configured to transport the single item to the collection module along the second direction of the feeding platform if the detection information indicates that the single item is a non-abnormal item, wherein the first direction is opposite to the second direction.
[0064] Specifically, the acquisition unit and control unit in this embodiment can correspond to physical components. For example, the processing unit can be a processing module such as a CPU, GPU, or FPGA. The specific physical component can be any component or combination of components with the above functions. The specific method depends on the actual scenario and is not limited here.
[0065] The aforementioned control device improves the adaptability of the separation process to different traffic flow scenarios by acquiring information from different vision modules and dynamically adjusting the separation parameters.
[0066] Specific limitations regarding the feeding control device can be found in the section above regarding the feeding system of the sorting machine, and will not be repeated here. Each unit module in the aforementioned feeding control device can be implemented entirely or partially through software, hardware, or a combination thereof. These modules can be embedded in hardware or independently of the processor in a computer device, or stored in software in the memory of a computer device, so that the processor can call and execute the corresponding operations of each module.
[0067] Another embodiment of this application also proposes a computing device, see [link to relevant documentation] Figure 5 As shown, an exemplary embodiment of this specification also provides a computing device, including: a memory and a processor, the memory storing a computer program, the processor executing the computer program to perform the steps in the feeding system of a sorting machine according to various embodiments of this specification as described in the above embodiments.
[0068] The internal structure of the computing device can be as follows: Figure 5 As shown, the computing device includes a processor, memory, network interface, and input devices connected via a system bus. The processor provides computing and control capabilities. The memory includes a non-volatile storage medium and internal memory. The non-volatile storage medium stores an operating system and computer programs. The internal memory provides an environment for the operation of the operating system and computer programs in the non-volatile storage medium. The network interface is used to communicate with external terminals via a network connection. When the computer program is executed by the processor, it follows the steps in the feeding system of the sorting machine according to various embodiments of this specification as described in the above embodiments.
[0069] The processor may include the main processor, as well as baseband chips, modems, etc.
[0070] The memory stores a program that executes the technical solution of this invention, and may also store an operating system and other critical business functions. Specifically, the program may include program code, which includes computer operation instructions. More specifically, the memory may include read-only memory (ROM), other types of static storage devices capable of storing static information and instructions, random access memory (RAM), other types of dynamic storage devices capable of storing information and instructions, disk storage, flash memory, etc.
[0071] The processor can be a general-purpose processor, such as a general-purpose central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, etc., or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or one or more integrated circuits used to control the execution of the program of the present invention. It can also be a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an off-the-shelf programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components.
[0072] Input devices may include devices that receive data and information input by the user, such as keyboards, mice, cameras, scanners, light pens, voice input devices, touch screens, pedometers, or gravity sensors.
[0073] Output devices may include devices that allow information to be output to the user, such as displays, printers, speakers, etc.
[0074] The communication interface may include any transceiver-like device for communicating with other devices or communication networks, such as Ethernet, Radio Access Network (RAN), Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), etc.
[0075] The processor executes the program stored in the memory and calls other devices, which can be used to implement the various steps of the feeding system of any sorting machine provided in the above embodiments of this application.
[0076] The computing device may also include a display component and a voice component. The display component may be a liquid crystal display screen or an e-ink display screen. The input device of the computing device may be a touch layer covering the display component, or a button, trackball or touchpad set on the casing of the computing device, or an external keyboard, touchpad or mouse, etc.
[0077] Those skilled in the art will understand that Figure 5The structures shown are merely block diagrams of some structures related to the solutions in this specification and do not constitute a limitation on the computing devices on which the solutions in this specification are applied. Specific computing devices may include more or fewer components than those shown in the figures, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.
[0078] In addition to the methods and devices described above, the part feeding system of the sorting machine provided in the embodiments of this specification can also be a computer program product, which includes a computer program that, when run by a processor, causes the processor to perform the steps in the part feeding system of the sorting machine according to various embodiments of this specification as described in the "Exemplary Methods" section above.
[0079] The computer program product described herein can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages to perform the operations of the embodiments described herein. These programming languages include object-oriented programming languages such as Java and C++, as well as conventional procedural programming languages such as C or similar languages. The program code can be executed entirely on the user's computing device, partially on the user's computing device, as a standalone software package, partially on the user's computing device and partially on a remote computing device, or entirely on a remote computing device or server.
[0080] Furthermore, embodiments of this specification also provide a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, the computer program being processed by a processor to perform the steps in the feeding system of a sorting machine according to various embodiments of this specification as described in the "Exemplary Methods" section above.
[0081] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. The computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium. When executed, the computer program can include the processes of the embodiments of the above methods. Any references to memory, storage, databases, or other media used in the embodiments provided in this specification can include non-volatile and / or volatile memory. Non-volatile memory may include read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory may include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM is available in a variety of forms, such as static RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), dual data rate SDRAM (DDRSDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), synchronous link DRAM (SLDRAM), RAMbus direct RAM (RDRAM), direct memory bus dynamic RAM (DRDRAM), and memory bus dynamic RAM (RDRAM), etc.
[0082] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.
[0083] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods outlined in this specification. While the descriptions are specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the solutions provided in this specification. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this specification, and these all fall within the scope of protection of this specification. Therefore, the scope of protection for this patent should be determined by the appended claims.
Claims
1. A feeding system for a sorting machine, characterized in that, The parts supply system includes at least one parts supply device, the parts supply device comprising: Input module, first separation module, second separation module, feeding station and collection module; The input module is used to receive items to be sorted and input the items to be sorted into the first separation module. The items to be sorted are input after the target object performs an unpacking operation. The first separation module is used to separate the items to be sorted from a first dimension, and input the separated items to be sorted into the second separation module; The second separation module is used to separate the items to be sorted from the first separation module from the second dimension to obtain individual items, and then input the individual items into the feeding station in sequence. The first dimension and the second dimension correspond to different spatial dimensions. The feeding station is used to pick the individual items one by one and input the picked individual items into the collection module; The collection module is used to input the picked single items into the sorting machine, and the sorting machine executes the item sorting process associated with the unpacking operation.
2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The input module includes: Input port, output port, and spiral groove; The input port is used to receive the items to be sorted that are poured out by the target object during the unpacking operation, and the output port is connected to the first separation module; The spiral groove is used to connect the input port and the output port, and the spiral groove includes at least one spiral section.
3. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first separation module is configured with a first vision module. The process by which the first separation module separates the items to be sorted from a first dimension includes: Obtain the transportation status information of the first separation module collected by the first vision module; Configure separation speed parameters based on the aforementioned transportation status information; The first separation module is controlled to separate the items to be sorted from the first dimension according to the separation speed parameter.
4. The system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first separation module includes at least one ramp-up separation section; The ramp separation section is used to lift the items to be sorted on a slope during transportation, and then drop them down via a gradient after being lifted.
5. The system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The configuration of separation speed parameters based on the transportation status information includes: Obtain the sorting load information corresponding to the sorting machine; Configure speed adjustment parameters based on the sorting load information; Configure the separation speed parameters based on the transportation status information and the speed adjustment parameters.
6. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second separation module is configured with a second vision module. The second separation module separates the items to be sorted from the first separation module from a second dimension to obtain individual items. The process includes: The second vision module acquires image information of the items to be sorted from the first separation module. In response to the object edge in the image information entering the separation area corresponding to the second separation module, the separation parameters are invoked; The second separation module is controlled to execute separation parameters to separate the items to be sorted from the second dimension, as input by the first separation module, to obtain individual items.
7. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The feeding station is equipped with a third vision module, and the process of the feeding station picking each individual item includes: The third vision module performs image recognition on the single item to determine detection information; If the detection information indicates that the single item is abnormal, then the single item is transported to the recycling module along the first direction of the feeding platform; If the detection information indicates that the single item is not abnormal, then the single item is transported to the collection module along the second direction of the supply table, where the first direction is opposite to the second direction.
8. The system according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The second separation module and the feeding station also include an import module; The transport direction of the import module for a single item is the same as that of the second separation module, but the transport direction of the import module for a single item is not perpendicular to the transport direction of the supply table for a single item.
9. The system according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The feeding system includes multiple feeding devices, and the collection modules corresponding to different feeding devices converge at the input port of the sorting machine. The recycling modules corresponding to different feeding devices are associated with each other.
10. A computing device, characterized in that, It includes a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the processor executes the computer program to implement the operation of the feeding system of the sorting machine according to any one of claims 1-8.