Visual sensor and monitoring equipment

Abstract

The utility model relates to a visual sensor and monitoring equipment. The visual sensor comprises a shell, a lens arranged in the shell and a cleaning structure used for cleaning the lens. The cleaning structure comprises a cleaning channel arranged in the shell, one end of the cleaning channel is an outlet end facing the lens, and the other end of the cleaning channel is an inlet end used for being connected with an external connector. The visual sensor is provided with a specific lens cleaning structure, that is, the cleaning channel is arranged in the shell of the visual sensor, cutting fluid attached to the lens can be effectively cleaned, cleaning of oil stains affecting visual detection in front of the lens can be effectively completed, the definition of cutter monitoring, photographing and imaging is improved, and pollution caused by the stains to the lens of the sensor is prevented; and the accuracy of a monitoring result is ensured.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The utility model relates to sensor technical field especially relates to a visual sensor and monitoring equipment. BACKGROUND

[0002] Advanced manufacturing technology integrates the achievements of science and technology and industrial innovation, and plays a vital role in the development of manufacturing industry. Real-time monitoring of the processing process is one of the key technologies, and the monitoring of the state of the tool is an important link of this technology, so the tool state detection technology is born.

[0003] The existing tool state detection technology discloses a method for monitoring the tool by using a visual sensor to judge the use state of the tool. However, in the actual cutting process of the tool, cutting fluid is usually added to play the role of cooling, lubrication, etc. It is found that the cutting fluid is easy to splash to the lens of the visual sensor, which affects the clarity of the photographic imaging, and further affects the accuracy of the visual detection, which needs to be improved. UTILITY MODEL CONTENT

[0004] In order to overcome at least one of the defects of the prior art, according to one aspect of the utility model, a visual sensor is provided, which comprises a shell, a lens arranged in the shell, and a cleaning structure for cleaning the lens.

[0005] The cleaning structure comprises a cleaning channel arranged in the shell, one end of the cleaning channel is an outlet end facing the lens, and the other end is an inlet end for connecting an external connector.

[0006] In an embodiment of the present application, the outlet end of the cleaning channel is inclined to form an inclined outlet facing the lens.

[0007] In an embodiment of the present application, the angle α between the lens and the outlet end ranges from 90° to 180°.

[0008] In an embodiment of the present application, a chamfered area for flow guiding is formed between the bottom of the front end of the shell and the lens.

[0009] In an embodiment of the present application, the top of the front end of the shell is protrudingly arranged compared with the bottom of the front end of the shell, so as to arrange the outlet end on the protruding part of the top of the front end of the shell.

[0010] In an embodiment of the present application, it further comprises an inner shell, a camera module and a connecting line, the inner shell is arranged in the shell, the camera module is arranged in the inner shell, one end of the connecting line is connected with the camera module and the other end extends to the outside through the inner shell and the shell.

[0011] In an embodiment of the present application, the inner wall of the shell is concavely provided with a groove, and a first sealing member is sealingly arranged between the groove of the shell and the lens.

[0012] In an embodiment of the present application, a rear shell is further included, the shell is provided with an assembly opening, and the rear shell is covered at the assembly opening of the shell; the other end of the connecting line extends to the outside through the rear shell.

[0013] The rear shell is provided with a through hole for the external connector to pass through, and a sealing member is sealingly arranged between the through hole of the rear shell and the external connector.

[0014] In an embodiment of the present application, a third sealing member is further included, which is sleeved on the connecting line and sealingly arranged between the rear shell, the shell and the inner shell; a fourth sealing member is sealingly arranged between the rear shell and the shell.

[0015] In an embodiment of the present application, the front end of the camera module is provided with a ring-shaped light source, the connecting line is used for supplying power to the camera module and the ring-shaped light source, and an adjuster arranged on the connecting line is used for adjusting the brightness of the ring-shaped light source.

[0016] In an embodiment of the present application, the camera module and the inner shell are filled with a heat dissipation grease and sealed by gluing.

[0017] The camera module and the inner shell are clamped and positioned, and the inner shell and the shell are clamped and positioned.

[0018] In an embodiment of the present application, the shell and the rear shell of the visual sensor are formed into a housing, the length L of the housing ranges from 36mm to 40mm, the width W of the housing ranges from 16mm to 20mm, and the height H of the housing ranges from 16mm to 20mm.

[0019] According to another aspect of the present application, a monitoring device is provided, which comprises the above-mentioned visual sensor.

[0020] In summary, the visual sensor and the monitoring device provided by the present application have the following technical effects:

[0021] The visual sensor is provided with a specific lens cleaning structure, i.e., a cleaning channel is arranged in the shell, which can effectively clean the cutting fluid attached to the lens, effectively complete the cleaning of the oil stains in front of the lens affecting the visual detection, improve the clarity of the tool monitoring and imaging, prevent the pollution of the stains to the sensor lens, and ensure the accuracy of the monitoring result. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1It is a structure schematic view of the visual sensor of the embodiment of the utility model;

[0023] Figure 2 It is an internal structure section view of the visual sensor of the embodiment of the utility model;

[0024] Figure 3 It is still another structure schematic view of the visual sensor of the embodiment of the utility model;

[0025] Figure 4 It is a section view of the exploded state of the camera module and the inner shell in the visual sensor of the embodiment of the utility model;

[0026] Figure 5 It is a schematic view of the exploded state of the outer shell and the inner shell in the visual sensor of the embodiment of the utility model;

[0027] Figure 6 It is still another structure schematic view of the visual sensor of the embodiment of the utility model;

[0028] The drawings: 1-outer shell, 11-cleaning channel, 111-outlet end, 112-inlet end, 12-groove, 13-assembly opening, 14-connection area, 2-lens, 3-inner shell, 4-camera module, 5-connection line, 61-first sealing piece, 62-second sealing piece, 7-rear shell, 71-through hole, 81-third sealing piece, 82-fourth sealing piece, 91-first clamping groove, 92-first clamping convex, 93-second clamping groove, 94-second clamping convex, 10-external connector, 20-locking piece. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] In order to better understand and implement, the technical scheme in the embodiment of the utility model will be clearly and completely described below in combination with the drawings in the embodiment of the utility model.

[0030] In the description of the utility model, it needs to be explained that the orientation or position relationship indicated by the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer" and the like is the orientation or position relationship based on the orientation or position relationship shown in the drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing the utility model and simplifying the description, and therefore cannot be understood as limiting the utility model.

[0031] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the utility model belongs. The terms used in the specification of the utility model herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the utility model.

[0032] An embodiment of this utility model discloses a vision sensor.

[0033] Given that existing technologies specifically utilize vision sensors to monitor tool condition, cutting fluid is typically added during the actual cutting process to provide cooling and lubrication. However, it has been found that cutting fluid can easily splash onto the lens of the vision sensor, affecting the clarity of the image and consequently the accuracy of the visual inspection.

[0034] To address the aforementioned problems, the structure of existing vision sensors has been improved, leading to the development of the vision sensor described in this embodiment. This vision sensor primarily includes an improved cleaning scheme for the lens 2, removing oil contaminants that affect visual detection, improving the clarity of tool monitoring and imaging, preventing contamination of the sensor lens 2 by cutting fluid, and ensuring the accuracy of the monitoring results.

[0035] The following combination Figures 1-6 Let me describe in detail the improved vision sensor of this utility model embodiment.

[0036] Specifically, this vision sensor includes a housing 1 and a lens 2 disposed within the housing 1. The vision sensor also includes a cleaning structure for cleaning the lens 2. This cleaning structure can utilize air jet cleaning, liquid cleaning, or both air jet cleaning and liquid cleaning simultaneously, i.e., using the scouring force generated by the ejection of gas and / or liquid for cleaning. Air jet cleaning is preferred.

[0037] To achieve air jet cleaning and / or liquid spray cleaning, a cleaning channel 11 can be specifically provided within the housing 1 of this vision sensor. One end of the cleaning channel 11 is an outlet end 111 facing the lens 2, and the other end is an inlet end 112 for connecting to the external connector 10. Therefore, the cleaning structure can specifically include the cleaning channel 11 provided within the housing 1 of this vision sensor.

[0038] Since the cleaning structure of this vision sensor can be cleaned by air jet or liquid spray, when air jet cleaning is required, an external air source (such as a compressed air tank or air pump) is connected to the inlet end 112 of the cleaning channel 11 through an external connector 10. High-pressure gas flows through the cleaning channel 11 to the outlet end 111, forming a high-speed airflow at the outlet end 111 that rushes toward the surface of the lens 2. The high-speed airflow can blow away the cutting fluid contaminants on the surface of the lens 2. The kinetic energy and impact force of the gas are used to remove the contaminants from the surface of the lens 2, thereby achieving the purpose of cleaning the lens 2.

[0039] Or, when it is necessary to carry out liquid spray cleaning, an external liquid source (for example, a container filled with cleaning liquid and matched with a corresponding pumping device) is connected with the inlet end 112 of the cleaning channel 11; the cleaning liquid enters the cleaning channel 11 under the action of pressure and is then sprayed from the outlet end 111 to the lens 2; the cutting fluid contaminants on the lens 2 can be dissolved or flushed away by the cleaning liquid, and the contaminants are carried away during the flowing of the cleaning liquid on the surface of the lens 2, so that the lens 2 is restored to be clean.

[0040] Or, when air and liquid spray cleaning is simultaneously carried out, the gas and the cleaning liquid enter the cleaning channel 11 from the respective supply sources. In the cleaning channel 11, the gas and the liquid are mixed to form a gas-liquid mixed flow that is sprayed to the lens 2; the high-speed flow of the gas can enhance the spraying pressure and coverage range of the cleaning liquid, so that the cleaning liquid is more uniformly distributed on the surface of the lens 2 and the flushing force is enhanced; at the same time, the gas also helps to quickly dry the residual cleaning liquid on the surface of the lens 2, reduces water stains, and improves the cleaning efficiency and effect.

[0041] It can be seen that the visual sensor is provided with a specific lens cleaning structure, that is, the cleaning channel 11 is arranged in the shell 1 of the visual sensor; no matter whether air spray, liquid spray or gas-liquid mixed cleaning is adopted, the cutting fluid adhered to the lens 2 can be effectively cleaned, the cleaning of the oil stains affecting the visual detection in front of the lens can be effectively completed, the clarity of the imaging of the tool monitoring and photographing is improved, the pollution of the cutting fluid to the sensor lens is prevented, and the accuracy of the monitoring result is ensured.

[0042] It should be noted that in actual application, the visual sensor can not only be applied in the scene of tool cutting machining to clean the cutting fluid adhered to the lens 2, but also can be applied in other scenes, for example, for the machining of precise parts such as engine blades and automobile transmission gears, the visual sensor can accurately measure the size thereof; or for the machining of mobile phone parts and a large number of small parts such as screws and chip pins, the visual sensor can be installed on the production line to detect the small parts in real time.

[0043] Therefore, the visual sensor is provided with a specific lens cleaning structure, the air spray cleaning can also clean dry dust, lint and other contaminants, the liquid spray cleaning can deal with oil stains, fingerprints and other sticky stains, and the gas-liquid mixed cleaning combines the advantages of the two, so that the lens 2 of the visual sensor can be thoroughly and completely cleaned to ensure that the lens 2 always maintains good light transmittance and imaging clarity, thereby ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the image or data collected by the visual sensor.

[0044] This means that the appropriate cleaning mode can be selected flexibly according to the actual working environment of the visual sensor and the contamination of the lens 2; for example, in a dry and dusty environment, jet cleaning can be preferred; in an industrial environment with more oil stains, liquid jet or gas-liquid mixed cleaning can be selected, so that the visual sensor can work stably in different harsh environments and broaden its application range.

[0045] Specifically, the lens 2 can specifically adopt an anti-reflection technology, for example, the lens 2 can specifically adopt an anti-reflection film to increase the light transmittance, so that the visual sensor can receive more light and improve the brightness and contrast of the image. Moreover, in a low-light environment, this advantage is more obvious, which can reduce the noise of the image and make the image clearer and more delicate, thereby improving the detection and recognition ability of the visual sensor to the target object.

[0046] Specifically, the lens 2 can specifically adopt a hydrophobic coating technology, for example, the lens 2 can specifically be coated with a hydrophobic coating, which makes the lens 2 surface have a self-cleaning function. When water droplets or oil stains fall on the lens 2, they will automatically roll off, reducing the adhesion of pollutants on the lens 2, which to some extent reduces the frequency of cleaning, especially in outdoor or humid environments, which can maintain the cleanliness of the lens 2 and prolong the effective working time of the visual sensor.

[0047] Specifically, the outlet end 111 of the cleaning channel 11 is inclined to form an inclined jet outlet towards the lens 2. By setting the outlet end 111 of the cleaning channel 11 to be inclined, the gas or liquid can be sprayed at a certain angle to the surface of the lens 2. The inclined gas or liquid can generate a tangential force, making it easier for cutting fluid, dust, debris and other pollutants to be blown away from the surface of the lens 2. Moreover, the inclined jet outlet can reduce the cleaning dead angle and improve the overall cleaning efficiency. Furthermore, the inclined airflow can cover a larger area of the lens 2. Compared with vertical spraying, the inclined spraying of gas or liquid has a longer path on the surface of the lens 2, which can clean the lens 2 more comprehensively, improve the uniformity of cleaning, and ensure that each area of the lens 2 can achieve good cleaning effect.

[0048] Specifically, the visual sensor further comprises an inner shell 3, a camera module 4 and a connecting line 5. The inner shell 3 is arranged in the outer shell 1, the camera module 4 is arranged in the inner shell 3, and one end of the connecting line 5 is connected to the camera module 4 and the other end extends out of the inner shell 3 and the outer shell 1.

[0049] In this way, the inner shell 3 is arranged in the outer shell 1 as a relatively independent internal containing structure, and mainly serves to provide a relatively stable and protected internal environment for the camera module 4. The outer shell 1 plays a whole protection role against external physical collision, dust, water vapor and other adverse factors that may exist outside the internal components. The inner shell 3 further isolates the camera module 4 from the inner space of the outer shell 1, reduces the possibility of external interference being transmitted to the camera module 4 due to the outer shell 1, enables the camera module 4 to work in a relatively stable and clean environment, reduces the risk of damage to the camera module 4 caused by external factors, prolongs the service life of the camera module 4, and guarantees the stability and reliability of the whole visual sensor.

[0050] The camera module 4 is placed in the inner shell 3, which is the core component of the whole visual sensor to realize the image acquisition function, and captures light and converts it into an electrical signal through the internal optical elements, and then generates image data.

[0051] The connecting line 5 is responsible for establishing the connection between the camera module 4 and external devices (such as data processing terminals, power supplies, etc.). One end of the connecting line 5 is connected to the camera module 4 to realize signal transmission and power supply functions, and the other end of the connecting line 5 is arranged out of the inner shell 3 and the outer shell 1 and extends to the outside, which is convenient for interfacing with the corresponding external devices, so that the collected image data can be transmitted out for subsequent analysis and processing, and control instructions or power supply from the external devices can also be received.

[0052] In order to better understand the signal and power transmission principle, a simple example is given. In the image acquisition process, the photosensitive elements in the camera module 4 will generate corresponding electrical signals according to the change of light, which will be transmitted from the camera module 4 in the inner shell 3 to the related devices outside the outer shell 1, such as computers, controllers, etc., through the signal lines in the connecting line 5 according to the established transmission protocol (for example, common USB protocol, Ethernet protocol, etc., depending on the actual situation). If external power supply is needed to drive the camera module 4 to work, the power provided by the power supply will also be transmitted from the outside to the camera module 4 through the power lines in the connecting line 5, passing through the inner shell 3, to provide stable working voltage for the internal electronic elements of the camera module 4, and guarantee its normal operation.

[0053] Specifically, the inner wall of the outer shell 1 is recessed with a groove 12, and the groove 12 of the outer shell 1 and the lens 2 are sealingly provided with a first sealing member 61. Optionally, the first sealing member 61 can be a sealing ring, and the groove 12 can be a ring-shaped groove. In actual assembly, the first sealing member 61 is installed into the groove 12 of the outer shell 1, and the lens 2 extrudes the first sealing member 61, so that the first sealing member 61 is tightly sealed at the front end position of the visual sensor.

[0054] In this way, the first seal 61 is arranged between the recess 12 of the outer shell 1 and the lens 2, and when the lens 2 is mounted to the outer shell 1, it is pressed between the edge of the lens 2 and the recess 12, which can effectively prevent dust and water from entering, and the first seal 61 significantly prolongs the service life of the internal components (such as the camera module 4).

[0055] Since the optical and electronic elements in the camera module 4 are very sensitive to dust and water, dust can block light or affect the light transmittance of the optical elements, and water can cause electrical faults such as short circuits, and a good sealed environment can allow these components to work in a clean and dry environment, reducing the frequency of maintenance and replacement.

[0056] In particular, the second seal 62 is arranged between the inner shell 3 and the lens 2. Optionally, the second seal 62 can be a ring-shaped gasket. In actual assembly, the inner shell 3 is pressed against the second seal 62 to make the lens 2 adhere to the second seal 62, achieving a secondary sealing effect.

[0057] In this way, when the first seal 61 has formed a preliminary sealing protection between the outer shell 1 and the lens 2, the second seal 62 as a secondary seal further enhances the sealing effect; the first seal 61 mainly resists most of the dust and liquid from the outside of the outer shell 1, while the second seal 62 intercepts a small amount of contaminants that may bypass the first seal 61, and the second seal 62 can serve as a second barrier to prevent these contaminants from entering the core area of the camera module 4 inside the inner shell 3, thereby forming a double-layer protection system.

[0058] The secondary sealing structure significantly improves the overall sealing effect of the visual sensor, and compared with relying on a single seal, double sealing can more effectively block dust, water vapor and other pollutants from entering the inner shell 3, protecting the camera module 4 and other key components. Especially in some harsh environmental conditions, such as high humidity, dusty environment or industrial scenes with liquid splashing, this enhanced sealing can greatly reduce the risk of equipment damage.

[0059] In particular, the visual sensor also includes a rear shell 7, and since the inner shell 3 and other related workpieces are assembled into the outer shell 1, an assembly opening 13 is formed in the outer shell 1, and at this time, in order to prevent the workpieces inside the outer shell 1 from being affected, the rear shell 7 is covered at the assembly opening 13 of the outer shell 1.

[0060] An assembly opening 13 is formed on the outer shell 1, which is used to provide a convenient passage for the inner shell 3 and other related components (such as the camera module 4) to be placed into the inner space of the outer shell 1 in the correct order and position. During the assembly process, the worker can operate more easily through this opening to accurately install each component in place, for example, first install the camera module 4 into the inner shell 3, then put the inner shell 3 into the outer shell 1 through the assembly opening 13, and then perform subsequent operations such as connecting the connecting line 5.

[0061] The rear shell 7 covering the assembly opening 13 is shaped and sized to fit the assembly opening 13. After the assembly of the internal components is completed, the rear shell 7 is installed on the assembly opening 13 of the outer shell 1 and tightly combined with the outer shell 1 through a suitable connection method (such as snap connection, screw fixing, etc.) to close the assembly opening 13. When the rear shell 7 is closed, it tightly fits the edge of the outer shell 1 to form a relatively complete closed structure, ensuring that the space inside the outer shell 1 returns to a relatively closed and stable state, preventing dust, water vapor and other adverse factors from the outside from entering the inner shell 1 through the assembly opening 13 to affect the internal components.

[0062] In particular, the camera module 4 is also connected to the connecting line 5, and the other end of the connecting line 5 extends to the outside through the rear shell 7.

[0063] The rear shell 7 usually has a dedicated wire hole or wire slot structure, which is designed according to the specifications of the connecting line 5 so that the connecting line 5 can pass through smoothly. When assembling the visual sensor, after the inner shell 3, camera module 4 and other components are installed into the outer shell 1, and the rear shell 7 is closed on the assembly opening 13 of the outer shell 1, the connecting line 5 is arranged along the pre-designed wire hole or wire slot, so that one end of the connecting line 5 is connected to the camera module 4 to realize signal transmission and power supply functions, and the other end extends to the outside environment through the rear shell 7.

[0064] In order to ensure good sealing and avoid damage to the connecting line 5, some protective measures may be provided around the wire hole or wire slot, such as adding a rubber ring or other sealing material. When the connecting line 5 passes through the rubber ring, the rubber ring tightly wraps the connecting line 5, which can prevent dust, water vapor and other external factors from entering the inner shell 1 through the wire hole, and can also fix the connecting line 5 to some extent, reducing the damage to the connecting line 5 and the connecting part with the camera module 4 caused by the shaking of the connecting line 5.

[0065] Further, the third seal 81 is arranged on the connecting line 5 and seals the space between the rear shell 7, the outer shell 1 and the inner shell 3.

[0066] When the rear shell 7 is assembled and gradually approaches and finally covers the assembling opening 13 of the outer shell 1, the rear shell 7 will exert a certain pressure on the third seal 81. Since the third seal 81 is elastic, it will deform elastically after being extruded by the rear shell 7, thereby filling the gap space between the rear shell 7, the outer shell 1 and the inner shell 3. The third seal 81 will tightly adhere to the contact surfaces of the three components to form a continuous and gapless sealing area. Whether it is a planar contact or an annular area around the connecting line 5, the third seal 81 can block the communication channel between the outside and the inside of the visual sensor by deforming itself to achieve the sealing effect.

[0067] Therefore, the existence of the third seal 81 further enhances the sealing performance of the visual sensor and makes up for the possible weak sealing link between the rear shell 7, the outer shell 1 and the inner shell 3. In cooperation with other seals, a more comprehensive and rigorous sealing protection network is constructed, so that it is more difficult for dust, water vapor, oil stains and other impurities in the outside world to enter the internal space of the visual sensor, greatly improving the overall ability of the equipment to resist the outside environment.

[0068] Further, the fourth seal 82 is arranged between the rear shell 7 and the outer shell 1. Optionally, the fourth seal 82 can be a sealing gasket. In actual assembly, the rear shell 7 will press the fourth seal 82 tightly, so that a good sealing structure is formed between the rear shell 7 and the outer shell 1, and the rear end of the visual sensor is sealed.

[0069] In this way, when the rear shell 7 is assembled with the outer shell 1, the rear shell 7 will exert pressure on the fourth seal 82. Due to the elasticity of the fourth seal 82, it will deform under the pressure. This deformation enables the fourth seal 82 to tightly adhere to the contact surface between the rear shell 7 and the outer shell 1, filling the possible small gaps therebetween. The shape and size of the fourth seal 82 are designed according to the contact part of the rear shell 7 and the outer shell 1, which is usually able to cover the entire contact edge or the key sealing area, thereby effectively preventing external substances (such as dust, liquid, etc.) from entering the inside of the visual sensor through the gap between the rear shell 7 and the outer shell 1.

[0070] It can be seen that, in the rear end of the visual sensor, the third seal 81 (seal around the connecting line 5) and the fourth seal 82 (seal between the rear shell 7 and the outer shell 1) jointly play a role to form a double-seal defense line. This greatly enhances the sealing effect of the rear end, making it more difficult for dust, water vapor and other external factors to enter the interior, further improving the overall sealing performance of the visual sensor.

[0071] More importantly, the fourth seal 82, together with the first seal 61 (between the inner wall groove 12 of the outer shell 1 and the lens 2), the second seal 62 (between the inner shell 3 and the lens 2), and the third seal 81 (seal between the rear shell 7, the outer shell 1 and the inner shell 3 around the connecting line 5) mentioned earlier, form a complete sealing system. Through the synergistic effect of multi-directional sealing, even when facing external factors in different directions, the interior of the entire visual sensor can maintain a relatively closed, clean and stable environment, further improving the overall sealing effect.

[0072] In addition, at least one locking member 20 is arranged between the rear shell 7 and the shell. Optionally, the locking member 20 can be a screw or a bolt.

[0073] When a screw or a bolt is used as the locking member 20, corresponding screw holes are designed in advance on the rear shell 7 and the outer shell 1. During assembly, the screw or bolt is inserted through the screw holes on the rear shell 7 and the outer shell 1, and then tightened by a rotating tool (such as a screwdriver or wrench). As the screw or bolt is tightened, the distance between the rear shell 7 and the outer shell 1 gradually decreases until the rear shell 7 is tightly attached to the outer shell 1.

[0074] At the same time of tightening the locking member 20, the rear shell 7 will compress the seal members (such as the third seal 81 and the fourth seal 82) located between them. As mentioned earlier, the seal members will be elastically deformed under pressure, filling the gap between the rear shell 7 and the outer shell 1, achieving sealing. The tight connection provided by the locking member 20 ensures that the seal members can continuously receive sufficient pressure, maintaining a good sealing state. Even in the case of external interference or dynamic load on the visual sensor, the seal members can maintain the sealing effect due to the fixation of the locking member 20.

[0075] In addition, since the inlet end 112 of the cleaning channel 11 of the present visual sensor needs to be connected to the external connector 10, when the rear shell 7 needs to be assembled at the assembly opening 13 of the outer shell 1, in order to avoid interference, a through hole 71 can be arranged through the rear shell 7 for the external connector 10 to pass through.

[0076] In the assembly process of the visual sensor, the outer shell 1 is provided with an assembly opening 13 for loading the inner shell 3 and other related workpieces, and then the rear shell 7 needs to be covered to close the assembly opening 13. The inlet end 112 of the cleaning channel 11 needs to be connected to the external joint 10 to realize the introduction of gas or cleaning liquid for lens 2 cleaning and other operations. The through hole 71 for the external joint 10 is provided through the rear shell 7, and the size and position thereof are designed according to the specifications of the external joint 10 and the layout of the inlet end 112 of the cleaning channel 11.

[0077] When the rear shell 7 is installed, the external joint 10 can smoothly pass through the through hole 71, so that the rear shell 7 can be tightly covered at the assembly opening 13 of the outer shell 1 according to the normal assembly process without being hindered by the external joint 10, avoiding the situation that the rear shell 7 cannot be normally installed or installed out of position due to the existence of the external joint 10, and ensuring that the assembly process of the entire visual sensor can be smoothly carried out.

[0078] Specifically, the through hole 71 of the rear shell 7 and the external joint 10 are sealingly arranged. For example, a sealing ring can be specifically arranged. In this way, the sealing ring between the external joint 10 and the through hole 71 significantly enhances the sealing performance of the rear end of the visual sensor, and the sealing barrier provided can effectively prevent the invasion of dust, water vapor and other external substances, so that the visual sensor can work in a relatively clean and dry environment, especially suitable for complex and harsh environments such as outdoors and industries, prolonging the service life of the internal components and improving the reliability and stability of the entire visual sensor.

[0079] Specifically, the front end of the camera module 4 is provided with a ring-shaped light source, and the connecting line 5 is used to supply power to the camera module 4 and the ring-shaped light source. The connecting line 5 serves as a medium for power transmission, and transmits the electric energy of the external power supply to the camera module 4 and the ring-shaped light source, so as to ensure the normal work of the electronic elements in the camera module 4, including the core components such as the photosensitive chip and the image processing chip. At the same time, the connecting line 5 also establishes a data transmission channel between the camera module 4 and the external equipment (such as a computer, a controller, etc.), so that the image data collected by the camera module 4 can be transmitted out for subsequent processing and analysis.

[0080] It should be noted that the front end of the camera module 4 is specifically the side of the camera module 4 away from the connecting line 5.

[0081] Specifically, the adjuster on the connecting line 5 is used to adjust the brightness of the annular light source. When the brightness of the annular light source needs to be adjusted, the adjuster on the connecting line 5 is operated, and the adjuster can control the luminous intensity of the annular light source by changing the electrical parameters such as current or voltage. For example, it may be that the voltage applied across the light-emitting diodes of the annular light source is adjusted, and according to the light-emitting characteristics of the LED, the change in voltage will cause the current through the LED to change, thereby changing the luminous brightness of the LED. Or use pulse width modulation (PWM) technology, control the average current by changing the duty cycle of the pulse signal, and then realize the adjustment of the brightness of the annular light source.

[0082] Specifically, the camera module 4 and the inner shell 3 are filled with heat-conducting grease and sealed by gluing. The heat-conducting grease has good heat-conducting performance, and it is filled between the camera module 4 and the inner shell 3, which can effectively conduct the heat generated by the camera module 4 during operation. The electronic components (such as chips, etc.) in the camera module 4 will generate heat when running, and the heat-conducting grease can fill the small gap between the camera module 4 and the inner shell 3, increase the thermal contact area between the two, so that the heat can be transferred from the camera module 4 to the inner shell 3 more quickly, and then further to the surrounding environment through the inner shell 3, thereby reducing the temperature of the camera module 4 and ensuring its stable operation within the appropriate temperature range.

[0083] Gluing sealing is to apply sealing glue at the contact edge or gap between the camera module 4 and the inner shell 3. The sealing glue will form a continuous, elastic and sealing glue layer after curing. This layer of glue can prevent external dust, moisture, oil stains and other impurities from entering the space between the camera module 4 and the inner shell 3, preventing these impurities from having a negative impact on the heat dissipation performance of the camera module 4 (such as dust accumulation affecting heat dissipation efficiency, water vapor causing short circuit, etc.), and also protecting the camera module 4 from direct erosion by external environmental factors, maintaining a clean and dry environment inside.

[0084] Specifically, the camera module 4 and the inner shell 3 are clamped and positioned, and the inner shell 3 and the outer shell 1 are clamped and positioned.

[0085] Corresponding clamping grooves and clamping convex structures are provided on the camera module 4 and the inner shell 3 respectively. When assembling, the clamping convex structure of the camera module 4 slides along the clamping groove of the inner shell 3 and is embedded therein. The shape and size of the clamping groove limit the freedom of movement of the camera module 4 relative to the inner shell 3, so that the camera module 4 can only be installed in a specific direction and position, thereby determining the relative position and angle of the camera module 4 in the inner shell 3. For example, in the embodiment shown, the camera module 4 has a first clamping convex structure 92, and the inner wall of the inner shell 3 has a first clamping groove 91.

[0086] Similarly, the inner shell 3 and the outer shell 1 are also designed with a clamping groove and a clamping convex fitting structure. The clamping convex of the inner shell 3 interacts with the clamping groove of the outer shell 1. During assembly, the inner shell 3 is precisely positioned at a specific position and angle inside the outer shell 1 through the embedding and sliding of the clamping convex in the clamping groove of the outer shell 1. Since the camera module 4 and the inner shell 3 have determined the relative relationship through the clamping groove positioning, the positioning of the inner shell 3 and the outer shell 1 further fixes the position and angle of the camera module 4 relative to the outer shell 1. For example, in the embodiment shown, the outer wall of the inner shell 3 has a second clamping convex 94, and the inner wall of the outer shell 1 has a second clamping groove 93.

[0087] Through this layer-by-layer nested clamping groove positioning method, no matter how many times the visual sensor undergoes repeated operations during production and assembly, or how it is installed and fixed in different use environments, the photographing angle of the camera module 4 relative to the outside of the sensor (the outer shell 1) can be kept highly consistent. This is crucial for application scenarios that require accurate visual measurement, image contrast analysis, etc. For example, in industrial product size detection, the same photographing angle can ensure that the product image features collected each time are comparable, improving the accuracy and reliability of the detection results.

[0088] In particular, the outer shell 1, the inner shell 3, and the rear shell 7 can be made of aluminum alloy rust-proof material, which can be used for long-term operation inside machine tool equipment without being corroded by oil stains, has good heat dissipation effect, and low maintenance cost.

[0089] In particular, the outer shell 1 and the rear shell 7 of the visual sensor form a shell, the length L of the shell ranges from 36mm to 40mm, the width W of the shell ranges from 16mm to 20mm, and the height H of the shell ranges from 16mm to 20mm.

[0090] For example, the length L of the shell can be 36mm, 37mm, 38mm, 39mm, or 40mm, the width W of the shell can be 16mm, 17mm, 18mm, 19mm, or 20mm, and the height H of the shell can be 16mm, 17mm, 18mm, 19mm, or 20mm. Of course, in other embodiments, the length L of the shell can be other sizes within the range of 36mm≤L≤40mm, the width W of the shell can be other sizes within the range of 16mm≤W≤20mm, and the height H of the shell can be other sizes within the range of 16mm≤H≤20mm.

[0091] Preferably, the length L of the outer shell 1 is 36mm, the width W of the outer shell 1 is 16mm, and the height H of the outer shell 1 is 16mm.

[0092] In the design of the visual sensor, the length L, width W and height H of the shell are limited in ranges, which are comprehensively considered the reasonable layout requirements of the internal components (such as the camera module 4, the inner shell 3, the connecting line 5, the cleaning structure and the annular light source, etc.) and the overall functional implementation requirements. For example, it is necessary to ensure that the camera module 4 has enough space to be installed in the inner shell 3, and the inner shell 3 can be adaptively placed in the outer shell 1, while also reserving space for the cleaning channel 11, the connecting line 5 to pass through and the annular light source to be installed, etc. The sizes of these internal components and the spacing distances between them jointly determine the minimum size of the shell. The upper limit range is set considering the limitation of the overall volume of the visual sensor in the actual application scenarios, so as to avoid that the visual sensor is too large to be inconvenient to install, carry or integrate into other devices or systems. For example, the size of the visual sensor defined in the present application is very suitable for the application scenario of tool state monitoring, and does not affect the cutting work of the tool.

[0093] In addition, the length, width and height of the outer shell 1 are preferably 36 mm, 16 mm and 16 mm, which are the optimal solutions obtained after a large number of experimental tests and actual application scenario verifications. This size makes the overall structure more compact on the basis of ensuring that all necessary internal components can be accommodated and the complete functions of the visual sensor (such as normal image acquisition, cleaning, heat dissipation, etc.) can be implemented. In some application environments with strict space requirements (such as the visual system of a small robot, a compact industrial detection device, etc.), the visual sensor can be more conveniently installed and arranged, and the material cost and production and processing cost are reduced to a certain extent.

[0094] Specifically, the angle a between the lens 2 and the outlet end 111 is in the range of 90°≤a≤180°. For example, the angle a between the lens 2 and the outlet end 111 can be 90°, 100°, 110°, 120°, 130°, 140°, 150°, 160°, 170° or 180°. Preferably, the angle a between the lens 2 and the outlet end 111 can be 150°. Of course, in some other embodiments, the angle a between the lens 2 and the outlet end 111 can also be other angles in the range of 90°≤a≤180°.

[0095] When the embodiment is specifically used for jet cleaning, when compressed air is sprayed from the outlet end 111, through multiple calculations and tests, when the angle a between the lens 2 and the outlet end 111 is in the range of 90°≤a≤180°, the fogging range can be effectively reduced, the noise value of the influence of the lens 2 on the sensor can be reduced, for example, the noise value of the influence on the sensor can be specifically reduced to 0.05, thereby ensuring the identification accuracy of the sensor. And, the compressed air can also be quickly discharged, without forming secondary impact points on the shell 1, effectively controlling the temperature change range, and ensuring the temperature stability of the sensor working. At the same time, the airflow of the outlet end 111 can also be directly opposite to the upper 1 / 5 of the lens 2, and the airflow can be effectively blown to the entire range of the sensor field of view through diffusion, so as to achieve full coverage cleaning of the lens 2.

[0096] Specifically, the bottom of the front end of the shell 1 and the lens 2 are chamfered to form a connecting area 14 for guiding airflow. It should be noted that the end of the shell 1 away from the rear shell 7 is the front end, a cavity is formed between the front end of the shell 1 and the lens 2, the inner wall top side of the cavity is provided with the outlet end 111 and the opposite bottom side is provided with the connecting area 14, one end of the connecting area 14 connects to the circumferential edge of the lens 2 and the other end extends to the outer side of the front end of the shell 1.

[0097] When compressed air is blown to the lens 2 through the outlet end 111, the airflow will scatter outward due to resistance. Since there is cutting fluid on the lens 2, the cutting fluid collides with the inner wall of the cavity at the sensor lens 2 under the action of compressed air, thereby producing atomization effect, affecting the field of view of the vision sensor and making it unclear. Therefore, by chamfering the bottom of the front end of the shell 1 and the lens 2 to form a connecting area 14 for guiding airflow, the flow direction of the cutting fluid under the action of compressed air can be effectively guided, so that the cutting fluid flows out smoothly along the connecting area 14 of the lens 2 and the shell 1, and atomization is not generated in the sensor field of view.

[0098] Specifically, since the bottom of the front end of the shell 1 and the lens 2 are chamfered to form a connecting area 14 for guiding airflow, and the top of the front end of the shell 1 is protruding compared to the bottom of the front end of the shell 1, the outlet end 111 is arranged on the protruding part of the top of the front end of the shell 1, so that the front end of the shell 1 forms a structure similar to a hat brim.

[0099] The above-mentioned structure similar to a hat brim provides an additional protective barrier for the lens 2 from above, for example, in a dusty indoor environment, it can also reduce the amount of dust settlement. Moreover, even if part of the foreign matter contacts this structure, it is more likely to slide away under the action of gravity, reducing the risk of contamination of the lens 2, prolonging the maintenance period of the lens 2, and thereby improving the overall reliability and durability of the vision sensor.

[0100] The embodiment of the utility model discloses a kind of monitoring equipment, including above-mentioned visual sensor. Wherein specifically, monitoring equipment can be specifically cutter state monitoring equipment, that is, the monitoring equipment of improved visual sensor is detected to cutter state, so set, broken tool, broken blade, entangled scrap and wear condition of cutter can also be more clearly photographed, to facilitate better accurately cutter state is monitored. Of course in some other embodiments, it can also be the monitoring equipment of monitoring other workpieces.

[0101] Since the visual sensor can clearly capture the broken tool, broken blade, entangled scrap and wear condition of the cutter, the monitoring equipment can accurately judge the cutter state. Through the analysis and processing of image data, it can accurately determine whether the cutter is damaged, the degree of damage and the remaining service life, etc. This is very important for timely replacing the cutter, improving the processing quality and production efficiency. For example, in an automated processing production line, accurate cutter state monitoring can avoid the increase of product defective rate and production interruption caused by cutter failure, ensure the continuity and stability of the production process, thereby improving the processing efficiency and product quality, and reducing the management cost.

[0102] The technical means disclosed in the utility model scheme is not limited to the technical means disclosed in the above embodiments, but also includes the technical scheme composed of any combination of the above technical features. It should be noted that, for ordinary skilled persons in the art, without departing from the principles of the utility model, a number of improvements and refinements can be made, and these improvements and refinements are also considered within the protection scope of the utility model.

Claims

1. A vision sensor, characterized by, The visual sensor comprises a shell (1), a lens (2) arranged in the shell (1), and a cleaning structure for cleaning the lens (2); The cleaning structure comprises a cleaning channel (11) arranged in the shell (1), one end of the cleaning channel (11) being an outlet end (111) facing the lens (2) and the other end being an inlet end (112) for connecting an external connector (10).

2. A vision sensor according to claim 1, wherein, The outlet end (111) of the cleaning channel (11) is arranged obliquely to form an oblique spray outlet facing the lens (2); The included angle α between the lens (2) and the outlet end (111) ranges from 90° to 180°.

3. The vision sensor of claim 1, wherein, The bottom of the front end of the shell (1) and the lens (2) are connected by a chamfer to form a connecting area (14) for guiding flow. The top of the front end of the shell (1) is arranged protruding compared to the bottom of the front end of the shell (1) to arrange the outlet end (111) on the protruding part of the top of the front end of the shell (1).

4. A vision sensor according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, Further comprising an inner shell (3), a camera module (4), and a connecting line (5), the inner shell (3) is arranged in the shell (1), the camera module (4) is arranged in the inner shell (3), one end of the connecting line (5) is connected with the camera module (4) and the other end extends out of the inner shell (3) and the shell (1).

5. A vision sensor according to claim 4, wherein, The inner wall of the shell (1) is recessed with a groove (12), the groove (12) of the shell (1) and the lens (2) are sealed with a first sealing member (61); the inner shell (3) and the lens (2) are sealed with a second sealing member (62). The visual sensor further comprises a rear shell (7), the shell (1) is provided with a fitting opening (13), the rear shell (7) is covered at the fitting opening (13) of the shell (1); the other end of the connecting line (5) extends out of the rear shell (7). The rear shell (7) is provided with a through hole (71) for the external connector (10) to pass through; the through hole (71) of the rear shell (7) and the external connector (10) are sealed.

6. A vision sensor according to claim 5, wherein, Further comprising a third sealing member (81) sleeved on the connecting line (5), the third sealing member (81) is sealed between the rear shell (7), the shell (1), and the inner shell (3); the fourth sealing member (82) is sealed between the rear shell (7) and the shell (1).

7. A vision sensor according to claim 4, wherein, The front end of the camera module (4) is provided with a ring light source, the connecting line (5) is used for supplying power to the camera module (4) and the ring light source; the adjuster arranged on the connecting line (5) is used for adjusting the brightness of the ring light source.

8. The vision sensor of claim 4, wherein, The camera module (4) and the inner shell (3) are filled with heat dissipation grease and sealed by gluing; The camera module (4) and the inner shell (3) are clamped and positioned, and the inner shell (3) and the shell (1) are clamped and positioned.

9. A vision sensor according to any of claims 1-3, 5-8, wherein, The shell (1) and the rear shell (7) of the visual sensor form a shell, the length L of the shell ranges from 36mm to 40mm, the width W of the shell ranges from 16mm to 20mm, and the height H of the shell ranges from 16mm to 20mm.

10. Monitoring device, characterized in that it comprises a vision sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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