Production line identifying and reading equipment
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- LEXIN (SHANGHAI) TRADING CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-15
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-26
Smart Images
Figure CN224287520U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of product line technology, and in particular to production line identification equipment. Background Technology
[0002] In modern production and logistics lines, the automatic identification of information on items is crucial. Existing equipment for this purpose often has several shortcomings: First, many devices have relatively fixed installation structures, making it inconvenient to adjust the position and angle of the reader when production lines or products change, resulting in poor adaptability. Second, some devices are not precise enough when triggering reads, easily leading to missed or misreads on high-speed production lines or lines with irregular item spacing, affecting identification accuracy. Third, some devices only support a single identification method, such as RFID-only or QR code-only, failing to flexibly handle situations involving multiple identifiers or partially malfunctioning identifiers. Furthermore, the installation and relocation of traditional equipment are often cumbersome and complex, hindering rapid deployment across different production lines or workstations. Finally, in scenarios requiring item placement on pallets (group pallets), existing solutions often require the deployment of multiple independent identification systems, and integration with automated equipment and related sensors is complex and difficult to coordinate. Therefore, a more flexible, accurate, easily deployable, and integrateable production line identification solution is needed. Utility Model Content
[0003] The purpose of this utility model is to provide a production line identification device to solve the technical problems of poor adaptability, inaccurate triggering, inconvenient deployment, and difficulty in integration and application in complex scenarios such as group trays.
[0004] This utility model discloses a production line identification device, comprising:
[0005] A support structure includes an upright and a crossbar, wherein the crossbar is mounted on the upright via a first adjusting clip, the first adjusting clip being adapted to adjust the position and angle of the crossbar relative to the upright;
[0006] At least one RFID reader is mounted on the crossbar via a first adjustment mechanism, the first adjustment mechanism being adapted to adjust the position and angle of the RFID reader relative to the crossbar;
[0007] A photoelectric sensor is mounted on the RFID reader head via a photoelectric sensor bracket, the photoelectric sensor bracket being adapted to adjust the mounting position of the photoelectric sensor relative to the RFID reader head;
[0008] A control system is electrically connected to the RFID reader and the photoelectric sensor.
[0009] According to the production line identification device of the present invention, the first adjustment mechanism includes:
[0010] The first fixing rod is connected to the RFID reader head;
[0011] The second adjusting clamp connects the first fixing rod and the crossbar.
[0012] The production line identification device according to an embodiment of the present invention further includes:
[0013] A camera is mounted on the crossbar via a second adjustment mechanism adapted to adjust the position and angle of the camera relative to the crossbar.
[0014] The control system is also electrically connected to the camera.
[0015] According to an embodiment of the production line identification device of this utility model, the second adjustment mechanism includes:
[0016] A camera mount, on which the camera is fixed;
[0017] Second fixing rod;
[0018] The T-shaped adjustment clamp connects the camera bracket to the second fixing rod and is adapted to adjust the installation posture of the camera;
[0019] The third adjusting clamp connects the second fixing rod to the crossbar.
[0020] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the production line identification device includes a control system comprising an industrial control all-in-one computer and a main power cabinet, both of which are mounted on the pole or equipment base.
[0021] The production line identification device according to an embodiment of the present invention also includes a device base, the upright is mounted on the device base, the bottom of the device base is provided with a plurality of directional wheels and a plurality of universal wheels, and the universal wheels are provided with a locking mechanism.
[0022] According to the production line identification device of the present invention, the main electrical cabinet is installed on the equipment base and is provided with an electrical box fixing bracket, which is suitable for fixing the main electrical cabinet to an external structure.
[0023] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in the production line identification device, the photoelectric sensor bracket is detachably fixed at multiple different surface positions of the RFID reader head.
[0024] The production line identification device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of RFID reading heads, among which a first reading head and a second reading head are included; the second reading head and the first reading head are positioned at an interval; the second reading head is connected to the control system via a power cable and a network cable; and a first additional photoelectric sensor for detecting products is also installed on the second reading head.
[0025] The production line identification device according to an embodiment of the present invention further includes a second additional photoelectric sensor for detecting the tray, the second additional photoelectric sensor being positioned at an interval from the second identification head; the second additional photoelectric sensor is connected to the second identification head via a power cable and a network cable.
[0026] The main differences and effects of this utility model embodiment compared with the prior art are as follows:
[0027] Compared with existing technologies, this invention significantly improves the adaptability of the equipment to different production lines and products through its flexible and adjustable support structure, reading head, and camera mounting mechanism; the integrated adjustable photoelectric sensor enables precise triggering, improving recognition accuracy and efficiency; the combination of RFID and camera for multi-mode recognition enhances the robustness of the system; the base design with casters and locking mechanism facilitates the movement, rapid deployment, and stable fixation of the equipment; especially in the pallet assembly scenario, by configuring and connecting multiple reading heads and additional sensors to a unified control system, the integration and control of complex processes are simplified, achieving effective tracking and automated collaboration from initial identification to final pallet assembly. Attached Figure Description
[0028] Figure 1 An oblique view of a production line identification device according to an embodiment of this application is shown.
[0029] Figure 2A An angle view of an RFID reader head according to an embodiment of this application is shown.
[0030] Figure 2B An oblique view from another direction is shown of an RFID reader head according to an embodiment of this application.
[0031] Figure 3 An oblique view of a camera according to an embodiment of this application is shown.
[0032] Figure 4 A side view of the main electrical cabinet according to an embodiment of this application is shown.
[0033] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a production line identification device in a group pallet scenario according to an embodiment of this application is shown. Detailed Implementation
[0034] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0035] Example 1
[0036] This embodiment provides a production line identification device, which is particularly suitable for the automatic identification and information collection of RFID tags and / or optical marks (such as QR codes and barcodes) on moving packaging boxes or other items in scenarios such as automated production lines and warehousing and logistics sorting lines.
[0037] Figure 1 A perspective view of a production line identification device according to an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 1 As shown, the core structure of the production line identification device 100 includes a support structure. This support structure mainly consists of at least one vertically arranged upright 101 and at least one horizontally arranged crossbar 102. The crossbar 102 is adjustablely fixed to the upright 101 via a first adjusting clamp 103. The first adjusting clamp 103 typically includes two components that can be clamped at any height position on the upright 101 using fastening bolts (not shown in the figure), and provides an interface for fixing the crossbar 102. By adjusting the locking state of the first adjusting clamp 103, the vertical installation height of the crossbar 102 can be easily changed to adapt to production lines or conveyor lines of different heights. Simultaneously, the angle of the crossbar 102 relative to the upright 101 can also be adjusted.
[0038] A core identification unit is mounted on the crossbar 102. In this embodiment, the identification unit includes at least one RFID reader 104. (See also reference...) Figure 2A and Figure 2BThe images show oblique views of the RFID reader head according to embodiments of this application from two different directions. The RFID reader head 104 is mounted on a crossbar 102 via a first adjustment mechanism. This first adjustment mechanism allows for flexible adjustment of the position and orientation of the RFID reader head 104. Specifically, the first adjustment mechanism may include a first fixing rod 105 and a second adjustment clamp 106. One end of the first fixing rod 105 is securely connected to the housing of the RFID reader head 104, and the rod body is clamped by the first fixing rod 106. The first fixing rod 106 is mounted on the crossbar 102. By loosening and locking the first fixing rod 106 and adjusting the connection between the first fixing rod 105 and the RFID reader head 104 (e.g., via a structure such as a universal joint), the operator can easily adjust the left-right position, forward-backward extension distance, and pitch and yaw angles of the RFID reader head 104 along the crossbar 102. This high degree of flexibility allows the reading device to accurately align the effective reading area of the RFID reader with the RFID tags that may be affixed to different locations (such as the top or side) on packaging boxes of different sizes on the production line, greatly improving the on-site adaptability of the equipment.
[0039] To achieve precise triggering of readings, a photoelectric sensor 201 is integrated into the RFID reader head 104. As shown in Figure 2, the photoelectric sensor 201 is fixed to the housing of the RFID reader head 104 via a specially designed photoelectric sensor bracket 202. The design of this photoelectric sensor bracket 202 allows it to be removed and reinstalled in multiple preset positions (e.g., front panel, side panel, or top panel) on the housing of the RFID reader head 104 to optimize the sensor's detection angle and timing for incoming materials. The function of the photoelectric sensor 201 is to detect in real time whether an item (such as a packaging box) is about to enter or has already arrived at the optimal reading area of the RFID reader head 104. The installation position of the photoelectric sensor can be adjusted to be slightly ahead of the RFID reading area to allow time for system response and initiation of the reading action, especially on high-speed production lines.
[0040] To improve the success rate of identification and to address the possibility of RFID tag failure, this embodiment preferably also includes a camera 107, as shown in the reference. Figure 1 and in conjunction with references Figure 3The diagram shows a perspective view of a camera according to an embodiment of this application. Camera 107 can be an industrial camera used to read optical markings such as QR codes and barcodes on packaging boxes. Camera 107 is also mounted on a crossbar 102 via a second adjustment mechanism. This second adjustment mechanism may include a camera bracket 301, a second fixing rod 108, a T-shaped adjustment clip 302, and a third adjustment clip 109. The camera 107 body is fixed to the camera bracket 301. The camera bracket 301 is connected to the second fixing rod 108 via the T-shaped adjustment clip 302. The T-shaped adjustment clip 302 allows for different angles of connection between the camera bracket 301 and the second fixing rod 108, facilitating adjustment of the camera's basic mounting posture. The second fixing rod 108 is mounted on the crossbar 102 via the third adjustment clip 109. Similar to the adjustment of an RFID reader, by adjusting these clips and the fixing rod, the left-right position, front-back distance, shooting angle, and field of view of the camera 107 can be independently adjusted, enabling it to clearly capture optical markings on the packaging box. Specifically, the focus point and reading area of the camera 107 can be adjusted to coincide as closely as possible with the trigger point (spot position) of the photoelectric sensor 201, ensuring that the optical mark is exactly within the effective reading range of the camera when the sensor is triggered.
[0041] According to an embodiment of this application, the core control of the entire production line's identification equipment is handled by a control system. The control system is electrically connected and exchanges signals with the RFID reader 104, photoelectric sensor 201, and camera 107 via cables (typically industrial cables with good shielding and protection). In this embodiment, reference... Figure 1 The physical carriers of the control system mainly consist of an industrial control all-in-one computer 110 and a main electrical cabinet 111. The industrial control all-in-one computer 110 typically integrates a touch screen, processor, memory, and necessary interfaces. It is mounted on the upper part of the pole 101 and provides a human-machine interface for displaying equipment status, reading results, and setting parameters. (Reference) Figure 4 The side view shown is of the main power cabinet according to an embodiment of this application. The main power cabinet 111 is mounted on the lower part of the upright 101 or directly fixed to the equipment base 112. It internally houses core electrical components such as a main controller (e.g., a PLC or embedded controller), power modules, relays, terminal blocks, and a network switch (if required). The main power cabinet 111 is typically designed with good sealing properties, and its exterior is equipped with a waterproof power interface 113 and a waterproof network interface 114 (e.g., using waterproof glands) to meet the IP65 protection requirements of industrial environments, preventing dust and splash water intrusion.
[0042] According to embodiments of this application, the overall deployment and fixing of the production line identification equipment has also been optimized. (Reference) Figure 1 and in conjunction with references Figure 4The diagram shows a side view of the main electrical cabinet according to an embodiment of this application. The production line identification device 100 is equipped with a robust equipment base 112, with a support pole 101 securely mounted on the side of the main electrical cabinet 111, and the bottom of the main electrical cabinet 111 securely mounted on the equipment base 112. The bottom of the base is equipped with casters for easy movement, typically including two fixed wheels 115 and two casters 116 with locking mechanisms (brakes). This allows the device to be easily moved during initial installation or when a change of position is needed, and the device can be secured by locking the casters after the working position is determined. For applications requiring long-term fixed installation, one or more electrical box fixing brackets 117 are also provided on the side of the main electrical cabinet 111 or on the equipment base 112. These brackets have holes for securing the device firmly to the ground or the production line structure with bolts or other fasteners, ensuring the stability of the device during operation.
[0043] According to the embodiments of this application, Figure 1 The image also shows an indicator light 118 on top of the RFID reader 104, used to indicate the reading result of the read item tag and the device status. A waterproof USB 119 on top of the industrial control all-in-one computer 110 is used to connect external devices. A door lock 120 on the main electrical cabinet 111 is used to lock and open the electrical box; a power button 121 and a running indicator light 122 are also shown.
[0044] Brief description of equipment workflow:
[0045] When the production line starts and the packaged box moves along the conveyor line and approaches the production line identification device 100:
[0046] 1. The leading edge of the packaging box is first detected by the photoelectric sensor 201. The photoelectric sensor 201 immediately generates a trigger signal and sends it to the control system.
[0047] 2. After receiving the trigger signal, the control system sends a reading command to the RFID reader 104 according to the preset logic; at the same time, optionally, if the camera 107 is configured, a reading command is also sent to the camera 107.
[0048] 3. The RFID reader 104 transmits radio frequency signals to attempt to read the data from the RFID tag on the packaging box. Optionally, if a camera 107 is configured, the camera 107 photographs and decodes the optical tags within its field of view.
[0049] 4. The RFID reader 104 (optionally, and the camera 107) feeds back the reading result (successfully read data or failure status) to the control system. The control system determines the final valid identification result according to a preset priority strategy (e.g., prioritizing RFID data; if RFID reading fails, attempting to use QR code data read by the camera).
[0050] 5. The control system uploads the valid identification results to the upper-level management system via network interface 114. If the RFID and camera (if any) fail to successfully read valid information within the set time, the control system will determine that the reading has failed and may trigger an alarm to alert on-site personnel; for example, by illuminating the red light in the tri-color indicator light 118 installed on the equipment, or by displaying alarm information on the screen of the industrial control all-in-one computer 110.
[0051] This working method, which combines precise sensor triggering, multimodal reading (RFID + vision), and intelligent data decision-making, significantly improves the success rate, real-time performance, and overall robustness of data acquisition in complex production line environments (such as inconsistent label placement, slightly damaged labels, and uneven item spacing) compared to single identification or continuous reading methods. Meanwhile, the flexible and adjustable mechanical structure ensures that the equipment can quickly adapt to different production lines and product requirements.
[0052] Example 2
[0053] This production line identification device can also be flexibly applied to more complex production line layouts, such as scenarios involving pallet assembly processes. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 5 The diagram shown illustrates a production line identification device in a palletizing scenario according to an embodiment of this application. In some production or logistics processes, after initial identification, items (such as packaging boxes) need to be stacked onto pallets to form a transport unit; this process is called palletizing. Palletizing can be done manually or by automated equipment (such as a robotic arm).
[0054] In this application scenario, in addition to setting up a reading device containing a first RFID reader 104 (first reader) as described in Example 1 at the front end of the production line (e.g., when the packaging box has just come off the line or entered a certain area), it is usually necessary to add a second RFID reader 501 (second reader) near the palletizing station. This second RFID reader 501 is specifically used to read the RFID tag of the packaging box that is about to be stacked on the pallet.
[0055] Depending on the site layout, the palletizing station may be adjacent to the front-end reading station or located in different production line sections or areas at a greater distance. Therefore, the second RFID reader 501 is typically installed via its own mounting structure 502 (e.g., a separate bracket, column, or directly fixed to the palletizing equipment or a nearby production line frame). Importantly, this second RFID reader 501 needs to be connected back to the control system of the production line reading equipment via power cables and network cables, traversing possible physical distances, for example, by connecting to a corresponding interface in the main power cabinet 111 or accessing it through a network switching device. In this way, the control system can receive and process data from both the first RFID reader 104 and the second RFID reader 501, enabling full tracking of the packaging boxes from initial identification to final palletizing.
[0056] In highly automated palletizing scenarios, especially when using robotic arms for palletizing, at least one additional first photoelectric sensor is typically installed on or near the second RFID reader 501 to achieve precise control and status assessment. Figure 5 (Not shown in the image). The detection beam of the first additional photoelectric sensor is aligned with the position where the packaging box is about to be placed or has just been placed. Its main function is to trigger the second RFID reader 501 to perform a reading operation when the packaging box is detected in place. Alternatively, after reading, it can detect whether the packaging box has indeed been stacked in place (detect whether the product has been palletized). In addition, to further improve the level of automation, a second additional photoelectric sensor can be added (…). Figure 5 (Not shown in the image). This sensor is typically installed in a location capable of detecting the presence of the pallet itself, such as above the floor or at the entrance of the palletizing station. The second additional photoelectric sensor is used to: determine whether there are empty pallets waiting to be palletized at the current station. Alternatively, in conjunction with other information (such as the number of stacking layers), it can determine whether a pallet is full, i.e., whether the palletizing task is completed, and whether a new pallet has entered. This second additional photoelectric sensor can be connected to the second RFID reader 501 via a connecting cable or directly back to the control system, for example, connected to the corresponding interface in the main electrical cabinet 111 or accessed through a network switching device.
[0057] Brief description of the workflow in the group-based scenario:
[0058] 1. As the packaging box passes through the front end of the production line, it is identified and its information is recorded (activated) by the first RFID reader 104 (possibly in conjunction with a camera 107).
[0059] 2. The packaging boxes are transported to the pallet assembly station.
[0060] 3. When the packaging box is about to arrive at or reaches the stacking position, it is detected by the first additional photoelectric sensor, triggering the second RFID reader 501 to read the RFID tag of the packaging box.
[0061] 4. The control system receives the data read by the second RFID reader 501.
[0062] 5. At the same time, the control system may also obtain the current status information of the pallet from the second additional photoelectric sensor to determine whether the palletizing task has ended and whether a new pallet has entered.
[0063] 6. The control system executes the association logic to bind the newly read packaging box information with the pallet information currently being assembled.
[0064] 7. Based on the state change of the first additional photoelectric sensor (e.g., from blocked to unobstructed, indicating that the robotic arm has taken the next box or that the manual has stacked it), and the possible stacking count, the control system determines whether the stacking action of a single box is completed, that is, whether the product has been stacked.
[0065] 8. Determine when a pallet is full by using counting logic, a second additional sensor signal, or manual confirmation.
[0066] The control system completes the final binding of the pallet with all box information and prepares to process the next pallet.
[0067] With this configuration including multiple reading heads and additional sensors, the production line reading device of this invention can effectively support complex pallet grouping applications, whether it is manual palletizing (providing box-pallet association data) or automated palletizing (providing trigger, confirmation and status judgment signals), ensuring data accuracy and process smoothness.
[0068] It is understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely for illustrative purposes and not for limiting the scope of this application. Furthermore, for ease of description, the accompanying drawings show only the parts relevant to this application, and not all of the structures or processes. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in this specification denote similar items in the accompanying drawings.
[0069] It should be understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used herein to describe various features, these features should not be limited by these terms. The use of these terms is merely for distinction and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. For example, without departing from the scope of the exemplary embodiments, a first feature may be referred to as a second feature, and similarly, a second feature may be referred to as a first feature.
[0070] In the description of this application, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set up," "connected," and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this embodiment based on the specific circumstances.
[0071] The illustrative embodiments of this application include, but are not limited to, production line identification equipment.
[0072] Various aspects of the illustrative embodiments will be described using terminology commonly employed by those skilled in the art to convey the essence of their work to others skilled in the art. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that some alternative embodiments will be practiced using the features partially described. Specific figures and configurations are set forth for purposes of explanation in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the illustrative embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that alternative embodiments may be practiced without specific details. In some other instances, well-known features have been omitted or simplified herein to avoid obscuring the illustrative embodiments of this application.
[0073] References to "embodiments," "illustrative embodiments," etc., in this specification indicate that the described embodiments may include specific features, structures, or properties; however, each embodiment may or may not necessarily include specific features, structures, or properties. Furthermore, these phrases are not necessarily directed at the same embodiment. Additionally, when specific features are described in conjunction with specific embodiments, the knowledge of those skilled in the art can influence the combination of these features with other embodiments, whether or not those embodiments are explicitly described.
[0074] Unless the context otherwise specifies, the terms “comprising,” “having,” and “including” are synonyms. The phrase “A and / or B” means “(A), (B), or (A and B).”
[0075] In the accompanying drawings, some structures may be shown in a specific arrangement and / or order. However, it should be understood that such a specific arrangement and / or order is not necessary. Rather, in some embodiments, these features may be illustrated in a manner and / or order different from that shown in the illustrative drawings. Furthermore, the structures included in a particular drawing do not mean that all embodiments need to include such features; in some embodiments, these features may not be included or may be combined with other features.
[0076] The embodiments of this application have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the use of the technical solutions of this application is not limited to the various applications mentioned in the embodiments of this application. Various structures and modifications can be easily implemented with reference to the technical solutions of this application to achieve the various beneficial effects mentioned herein. Within the scope of knowledge possessed by those skilled in the art, all changes made without departing from the spirit of this application should be considered within the scope of this patent application.
Claims
1. A production line identification device, characterized in that, include: A support structure includes an upright and a crossbar, wherein the crossbar is mounted on the upright via a first adjusting clip, the first adjusting clip being adapted to adjust the position and angle of the crossbar relative to the upright; At least one RFID reader is mounted on the crossbar via a first adjustment mechanism, the first adjustment mechanism being adapted to adjust the position and angle of the RFID reader relative to the crossbar; A photoelectric sensor is mounted on the RFID reader head via a photoelectric sensor bracket, the photoelectric sensor bracket being adapted to adjust the mounting position of the photoelectric sensor relative to the RFID reader head; A control system is electrically connected to the RFID reader and the photoelectric sensor.
2. The production line identification device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first adjustment mechanism includes: The first fixing rod is connected to the RFID reader head; The second adjusting clamp connects the first fixing rod and the crossbar.
3. The production line identification device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A camera is mounted on the crossbar via a second adjustment mechanism adapted to adjust the position and angle of the camera relative to the crossbar. The control system is also electrically connected to the camera.
4. The production line identification device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second adjustment mechanism includes: A camera mount, on which the camera is fixed; Second fixing rod; The T-shaped adjustment clamp connects the camera bracket to the second fixing rod and is adapted to adjust the installation posture of the camera; The third adjusting clamp connects the second fixing rod to the crossbar.
5. The production line identification device according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that, The control system includes an industrial control computer and a main power cabinet, both of which are mounted on the pole or equipment base.
6. The production line identification device according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a device base, on which the upright is mounted. The bottom of the device base is provided with multiple directional wheels and multiple omnidirectional wheels, and the omnidirectional wheels are provided with a locking mechanism.
7. The production line identification device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The main electrical cabinet is mounted on the equipment base and is provided with an electrical box fixing bracket, which is suitable for fixing the main electrical cabinet to an external structure.
8. The production line identification device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The photoelectric sensor bracket is detachably fixed at multiple different surface positions of the RFID reader head.
9. The production line identification device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The system includes multiple RFID readers, including a first reader and a second reader; the second reader is positioned at a distance from the first reader; the second reader is connected to the control system via a power cable and a network cable; and the second reader is also equipped with a first additional photoelectric sensor for detecting products.
10. The production line identification device according to claim 9, characterized in that, It also includes a second additional photoelectric sensor for detecting the tray, the second additional photoelectric sensor being positioned at a distance from the second reading head; the second additional photoelectric sensor is connected to the second reading head via a power cable and a network cable.