A fully automatic sock inspection sorting machine
By combining the sock-supporting rotating component and the detection component, the problem that existing sock inspection machines cannot effectively detect the heel of the sock is solved, realizing all-round detection and efficient defect identification of the heel of the sock.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- ZHEJIANG YEXIAO KNITTING MACHINERY
- Filing Date
- 2025-08-12
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-04
AI Technical Summary
Existing sock inspection machines cannot effectively stretch the heel of socks, resulting in a low overall inspection accuracy.
A sock-stretching rotating component is used to stretch the sock heel, and an image information of the sock heel is acquired by a detection component at different heights and tilt angles. The sock is illuminated from different angles by a first light source and a second light source. The position and angle of the detection module are adjusted by the X-axis and Y-axis of the transport module, and defect detection is performed in conjunction with the camera module.
It enables comprehensive inspection of the heel area of socks, improving the accuracy and efficiency of inspection, reducing the effects of shadows and reflections caused by uneven lighting, and ensuring that defects are clearly presented.
Smart Images

Figure CN224586422U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of sock quality inspection technology, and more specifically, to a fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine. Background Technology
[0002] As a daily necessity, socks provide basic warmth and absorb sweat. They also provide physical cushioning to reduce wear and tear on the heels and toes, improving foot comfort. They are an indispensable part of human life. With continuous innovation and development in industrial technology, automated production lines are gradually replacing traditional manual labor, and more and more sock-making machines are being put into production.
[0003] Defect detection is a crucial step in ensuring sock quality. It not only promptly identifies and removes substandard products to reduce the defect rate but also helps companies adjust production process parameters in a timely manner to avoid batch quality problems. To this end, Chinese Patent Application No. 202321987183.1, as the applicant's earlier application, discloses a fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine, which includes at least a sock-stretching assembly. The sock-stretching assembly includes a sock-stretching tube, a sock-stretching cylinder, a vertical moving component, and a horizontal moving component. The sock-stretching tube surrounds the sock-stretching cylinder, and the sock-stretching cylinder has a notch. The horizontal moving component passes through the notch and connects to the sock-stretching tube. The horizontal moving component cooperates with the vertical moving component to stretch the socks on the sock-stretching tube. This solution can replace manual stretching of socks, greatly improving inspection efficiency; however, due to the structural differences at the sock heel, the existing device cannot effectively stretch the sock heel, and cannot achieve comprehensive inspection of the sock heel and other parts.
[0004] In view of the above, this utility model is hereby proposed. Utility Model Content
[0005] The problem solved by this invention is that existing sock inspection machines cannot accurately detect the heel of the sock, resulting in a low overall detection accuracy.
[0006] To address the aforementioned problems, this utility model provides a fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine, including a frame. A sock-supporting rotating assembly is mounted on the frame to support the heel of the sock and rotate it 360° horizontally. A detection component is mounted on the side of the sock-supporting rotating assembly. The detection component includes a detection module for acquiring image information of the heel of the sock at a first height and a first tilt angle, and at a second height and a second tilt angle, to detect defects.
[0007] As an example of this utility model, the first height and the second height are h1 and h2 respectively, where h1 < h2. The values of the first tilt angle and the second tilt angle are 0-45° and -45°-0°, respectively. That is, the first tilt angle is tilted upward and the second tilt angle is tilted downward.
[0008] Preferably, the detection component includes a transport X-axis horizontally mounted on the frame, the transport X-axis including a movable sliding seat, a transport Y-axis mounted on the sliding seat, the transport Y-axis including a mounting plate that can slide vertically, the mounting plate being vertically mounted and having an angle α with the transport X-axis, and the value of α being 15°-75°, for mounting the detection module.
[0009] Preferably, the assembly plate has a notch, and the detection module includes a first light source and a second light source located on both sides of the notch. The first light source and the second light source are elongated and extend vertically. The detection module also includes a camera module located at the notch.
[0010] Preferably, the camera module includes a first camera and a first drive motor. The first drive motor is located on the side of the mounting plate away from the sock-supporting rotating assembly and is drivenly connected to the first camera to enable the first camera to switch between a first tilt angle and a second tilt angle.
[0011] Preferably, the sock-supporting rotating assembly includes a sock-supporting component, which includes a first sock-supporting member. The outer wall surface of the first sock-supporting member is provided with a first limiting groove for accommodating the sock-heel spreading component. The sock-heel spreading component includes a spring plate and an output unit. The spring plate protrudes outward from the sock-supporting tube under the action of the output unit to spread the heel of the sock.
[0012] Preferably, the sock heel stretching assembly further includes an outer support member, which is slidably assembled into the first limiting groove, and both ends of the outer support member are respectively connected to the spring sheet and the output unit.
[0013] Preferably, the sock heel stretching assembly further includes an inner support member, which is slidably assembled into the first limiting groove. The inner support member is provided with a second limiting groove. The outer support member is slidably assembled into the second limiting groove. The spring sheet is connected to the outer support member and the inner support member respectively. The inner support member is driven and connected to the height adjustment assembly.
[0014] Preferably, the sock heel stretching assembly further includes a push ring and a bottom ring disposed around the periphery of the sock stretching tube. The bottom ring is located below the push ring. The inner wall surfaces of the push ring and the bottom ring are provided with a first annular groove for limiting the assembly of the outer support member. The inner wall surface of the bottom ring is provided with a second annular groove for limiting the assembly of the inner support member. The output unit is fixed to the bottom ring and drivenly connected to the push ring. The bottom ring is connected to the height adjustment assembly.
[0015] Preferably, the height adjustment assembly includes a second lead screw and a third nut seat, the third nut seat being sleeved on the second lead screw and the two being threaded together, the third nut seat being connected to the inner support member through a guide shaft, and the height adjustment assembly also includes a second motor, the second motor being drivenly connected to the second lead screw.
[0016] Preferably, the frame is provided with a temporary placement platform, and the temporary placement platform and the sock-supporting rotating assembly are respectively located at both ends near the same side of the transport X-axis. The mounting base is provided with a clamping component on the side near the sock-supporting rotating assembly for transferring the socks located on the sock-supporting rotating assembly to the temporary placement platform.
[0017] Compared with the prior art, the fully automatic sock sorting machine described in this utility model embodiment has the following beneficial effects: 1) The sock-supporting rotating component can open up the heel of the sock, while the detection component can adjust the height and tilt angle, thereby realizing the detection of defects in the sock leg and heel, further improving the detection accuracy; 2) The sock is divided into upper and lower parts for detection, thereby reducing the influence of sock length on the detection results; 3) By setting the first light source and the second light source, the light is evenly irradiated onto the sock from different angles, reducing the shadows and reflections caused by uneven lighting, making the defects on the surface of the sock more clearly presented, effectively avoiding the defects being covered up due to local over-brightness or under-brightness, and improving the detection accuracy. Attached Figure Description
[0018] Figure 1 This is an overall schematic diagram of the fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine described in this embodiment of the utility model; Figure 2 This is another perspective view of the fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine described in this embodiment of the utility model; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the detection component described in an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 4 for Figure 3 The intention to magnify a portion of point A in the middle; Figure 5 This is another perspective view of the detection component described in an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 6 This is an overall schematic diagram of the fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine described in this embodiment of the utility model; Figure 7 for Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the horizontal section along the AA side; Figure 8 This is another perspective view of the fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine described in this embodiment of the utility model; Figure 9 This is another perspective view of the fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine described in this embodiment of the utility model; Figure 10for Figure 9 A magnified view of a section at point B in the middle; Figure 11 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional schematic diagram of the fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine described in this embodiment of the present invention; Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the sock support tube according to an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first sock support member in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 14 This is another perspective view of the first sock support member in an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the external support member described in an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 16 This is a structural schematic diagram of the inner support member described in an embodiment of the present utility model.
[0019] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 100 - Detection component; 11 - X-axis conveyor; 111 - First drive component; 112 - First slide rail; 113 - Sliding seat; 12 - Y-axis conveyor; 121 - Second drive component; 122 - Second slide rail; 123 - Mounting seat; 124 - Assembly plate; 1241 - Notch; 13 - Clamping component; 14 - Detection module; 141 - Camera module; 1411 - First camera; 1412 - First drive motor; 142 - First light source; 143 - Second light source; 200 - Frame; 300 - Sock-supporting rotation component 31-Sock support assembly; 311-First sock support piece; 3111-First limiting groove; 3112-First inclined surface; 3113-Second inclined surface; 3114-Ear plate; 3115-Allowing part; 312-Sock support tube; 3121-Strip hole; 3122-Third inclined surface; 3123-Annular rib; 313-Vertical moving part; 3131-Pull rod; 31311-First guide sleeve; 3132-Sleeve; 31321-Second guide sleeve; 3133-Upper cone; 3134-Lower cone; 314-Sock heel stretcher Components; 3141-Outer support; 31411-First protrusion; 31412-First connecting hole; 31413-First protrusion; 31414-Through hole; 3142-Inner support; 31421-Second protrusion; 31422-Second connecting hole; 31423-Second limiting groove; 3143-Spring plate; 3144-Push ring; 31441-First annular groove; 3145-Bottom ring; 31451-Second annular groove; 3146-Output unit; 315-First transmission component; 3151-First lead screw; 3 152-First nut seat; 3153-Second nut seat; 3154-Guide rod; 316-First motor; 317-Height adjustment component; 3171-Second lead screw; 3172-Third nut seat; 3173-Guide shaft; 3174-Second motor; 318-Second support frame; 32-Mounting bracket; 321-First horizontal plate; 322-Second horizontal plate; 323-Third horizontal plate; 324-First vertical plate; 325-Second vertical plate; 33-Bearing; 34-Second transmission component; 35-Drive motor; 400-Temporary placement platform. Detailed Implementation
[0020] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this utility model more apparent and understandable, specific embodiments of this utility model will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Without conflict, the technical features of the embodiments of this utility model can be combined with each other. Example 1
[0021] like Figure 1-5As shown, a fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine includes a frame 200, on which a sock-supporting rotating assembly 300 is disposed. The sock-supporting rotating assembly 300 is used to open and rotate the heel of the sock to be inspected 360° in the horizontal direction. A detection assembly 100 is disposed on the frame 200, and a detection module 14 is disposed on the upper part of the detection assembly 100, which is used to cooperate with the sock-supporting rotating assembly 300 to acquire image information of the heel of the sock from different perspectives for defect detection.
[0022] This setup utilizes a sock-stretching and rotating assembly 300 to open and rotate the socks to be inspected, exposing various parts of the socks, especially the heel and cuff, to the field of view of the detection module 14. The detection module 14, positioned at different heights, acquires image information of the sock surface, particularly the heel, from different angles, thereby more comprehensively and accurately detecting defects such as holes, stains, loose threads, and uneven stitching on the heel. The specific detection method of the detection module 14 is existing technology and will not be described in detail here.
[0023] As an example of this utility model, the detection component 100 includes a transport X-axis 11 horizontally arranged on the frame 200. The transport X-axis 11 includes a movable sliding seat 113. A transport Y-axis 12 is arranged on the sliding seat 113. The transport Y-axis 12 includes a mounting seat 123 that can slide vertically. An assembly plate 124 is fixedly arranged on one side of the mounting seat 123. The assembly plate 124 is vertically arranged and has an included angle α with the transport X-axis 11, and the value of α is 15°-75°.
[0024] This setup allows for adjustment of the distance between the detection module 14 and the sock-supporting rotating assembly 300 by moving the X-axis 11. Simultaneously, the inclined mounting plate 124 minimizes interference from components such as the sock-knitting machine located on the other side of the sock-supporting rotating assembly 300 when the detection module 14 acquires images, further improving detection accuracy. The Y-axis 12 is used to adjust the height of the detection module 14, enabling it to acquire surface image information of the sock heel from both the bottom and top, minimizing light source interference and thus improving the accuracy and efficiency of defect detection.
[0025] As an example of this utility model, the assembly plate 124 is provided with a notch 1241, and the detection module 14 includes a first light source 142 and a second light source 143 located on both sides of the notch 1241. The first light source 142 and the second light source 143 are elongated and extend in the vertical direction. The detection module 14 also includes a camera module 141 located at the notch 1241.
[0026] This setup allows light to evenly illuminate the socks from different angles, reducing shadows and reflections caused by uneven lighting. This makes imperfections on the sock surface clearer and effectively prevents them from being obscured by areas that are too bright or too dark, thus improving detection accuracy. The camera module 141, located at the notch 1241, is not obstructed by the assembly plate 124 when capturing images of the sock surface, thus obtaining complete and clear images of the socks and providing comprehensive and accurate data for subsequent defect detection. This setup makes the device structure more compact, saves space, facilitates miniaturization and portability, and also makes installation and maintenance easier.
[0027] Preferably, the camera module 141 includes a first camera 1411 and a first drive motor 1412. The first drive motor 1412 is located on the side of the mounting plate 124 away from the sock-supporting rotating assembly 300 and is drivenly connected to the first camera 1411 for adjusting the tilt angle of the first camera 1411.
[0028] This setup allows for adjustment of the tilt angle of the first camera 1411 at different heights, thereby meeting the requirements for detecting defects at the heel of the sock. Specifically, when the sock is placed on the sock-stretching rotating assembly 300, the heel of the sock is stretched open. At this time, by adjusting the height and tilt angle of the first camera 1411, all-around inspection of the upper and lower parts of the heel can be performed. The notch 1241 also provides space for the camera module 141, allowing the first camera 1411 to flexibly adjust its shooting angle according to actual inspection needs. Preferably, the first drive motor 1412 is mounted on the assembly plate 124 via a limiting plate, and its specific structure is existing technology.
[0029] Preferably, the central axis of the first camera 1411 is perpendicular to the drive shaft of the first drive motor 1412. This arrangement allows the first camera 1411 to acquire image information of the sock surface in an orthographic projection manner, effectively avoiding image distortion caused by excessively tilted shooting angles, making the acquired sock image more consistent with its actual shape and size, providing a reliable basis for subsequent accurate defect analysis; reducing local over-brightness or under-brightness caused by angle issues, making the brightness of the sock surface more uniform, helping the camera to capture subtle defects on the sock surface, improving image quality and readability; and helping to stabilize the shooting position and angle of the first camera 1411, avoiding image blurring or shaking caused by vibration, ensuring image clarity and stability.
[0030] Preferably, the frame 200 is provided with a temporary placement platform 400, and the temporary placement platform 400 and the sock-supporting rotating assembly 300 are respectively located at both ends near the same side of the transport X-axis 11. The mounting base 123 is provided with a clamping assembly 13 on the side near the sock-supporting rotating assembly 300 for transferring socks located on the sock-supporting rotating assembly 300 to the temporary placement platform 400.
[0031] As an example of this utility model, the transport X-axis 11 includes a first slide rail 112 and a first drive assembly 111. The first drive assembly 111 is fixed to the end of the first slide rail 112 and drivenly connected to the sliding seat 113. The sliding seat 113 is slidably disposed on the first slide rail 112. This arrangement can effectively reduce the vibration and shaking of the transport Y-axis 12, and improve the operational stability and reliability.
[0032] As an example of this utility model, the transport Y-axis 12 includes a second slide rail 122 and a second drive assembly 121. The second drive assembly 121 is fixed to the top of the second slide rail 122 and is drivenly connected to the mounting base 123. The mounting base 123 is located on the side close to the sock-supporting rotating assembly 300 and is slidably disposed on the second slide rail 122.
[0033] This design fully utilizes the top space of the second slide rail 122, making the overall structure of the Y-axis conveying mechanism 12 more compact and improving space utilization, especially in space-constrained production environments such as sock manufacturing. Furthermore, the placement of the mounting base 123 close to the sock-supporting rotating assembly 300 allows for easier and faster transfer of socks from the assembly to the temporary placement table 400, minimizing transfer distance and time during handling and improving production efficiency. As an example of this invention, the first drive assembly 111 and the second drive assembly 121 are motors.
[0034] First, the sock to be inspected is placed on the sock-stretching rotation assembly 300 to stretch the sock's heel. The detection module 13 is moved to the upper position of the sock by the X-axis 11 and Y-axis 12. Then, the tilt angle of the first camera 1311 is adjusted by the first drive motor 1312. The sock is then rotated 360° by the sock-stretching rotation assembly 300 to obtain image information of the sock, especially the heel. Next, the detection module 13 is moved to the lower position of the sock by the Y-axis 12. The first camera 1311 is tilted upward by the first drive motor 1312. The sock is then rotated 360° by the sock-stretching rotation assembly 300 to obtain image information of the sock, especially the heel, to achieve comprehensive detection. Example 2
[0035] like Figure 6-16As shown, the sock-supporting rotating assembly 300 includes a sock-supporting assembly 31, which includes a first sock-supporting member 311, a sock-supporting tube 312, and a vertical moving member 313. The vertical moving member 313 is located inside the sock-supporting tube 312 and is used to drive the first sock-supporting member 311 to move horizontally outward relative to the sock-supporting tube 312 to spread the sock. The outer wall surface of the first sock-supporting member 311 is provided with a first limiting groove 3111 for accommodating a sock heel spreading assembly 314. The sock heel spreading assembly 314 includes a spring plate 3143 and an output unit 3146. Under the action of the output unit 3146, the spring plate 3143 protrudes outward away from the sock-supporting tube 312 to spread the heel of the sock.
[0036] This design uses the first sock stretcher 311 to move horizontally outward relative to the sock tube 312, thus stretching the sock as a whole. This ensures the sock is in a relatively flat and relaxed state, allowing all parts of the sock to be fully exposed, facilitating subsequent comprehensive defect inspection. Simultaneously, a first limiting groove 3111 is provided on the outer wall of the first sock stretcher 311 to accommodate the sock heel stretching component 314. The spring plate 3143 within this component protrudes outward away from the sock tube 312 under pressure, specifically targeting the sock heel for stretching, thereby enabling defect inspection of these two key areas. Furthermore, the distance the first sock stretcher 311 moves horizontally outward relative to the sock tube 312 is controlled by adjusting the stroke of the vertical moving component 313, thus adapting to the stretching requirements of different sock sizes. The degree of protrusion of the spring plate 3143 under pressure can be adjusted according to actual needs to accommodate the elasticity and thickness of different sock heels, making it highly versatile.
[0037] As an example of this utility model, the sock support assembly 314 includes an outer support member 3141 and an inner support member 3142. The inner support member 3142 is assembled into the first limiting groove 3111. The inner support member 3142 is provided with a second limiting groove 31423 for limiting the assembly of the outer support member 3141. The spring sheet 3143 is connected to the upper ends of the outer support member 3141 and the inner support member 3142 respectively. The lengths of the outer support member 3141, the second limiting groove 31423, the inner support member 3142, and the first limiting groove 3111 are L1, L2, L3, and L4 respectively, where L1 < L2 < L3 < L4. The lower end of the outer support member 3141 is driven and connected to the output unit 3146. The sock support assembly 31 also includes a height adjustment assembly 317 for connecting with the inner support member 3142 to adjust its height.
[0038] The inner support member 3142 is shorter than the first limiting groove 3111, allowing the height adjustment component 317 to drive the inner support member 3142 to slide up and down within the first limiting groove 3111, thus adjusting the height of the sock heel stretching component 314. This enables the heel of socks of different models and sizes to be stretched open for easy defect detection, resulting in a wide range of applications. The inner support member 3142 is assembled within the first limiting groove 3111, while the outer support member 3141 is further limited and assembled within the second limiting groove 31423 of the inner support member 3142. This ensures the relative positional stability of each component during movement, preventing misalignment or wobbling between components, guaranteeing the accuracy and consistency of the sock heel stretching action, and improving the reliability of detection. As an example of this utility model, the output unit 3146 is a cylinder.
[0039] Preferably, the height adjustment component 317 includes a second lead screw 3171 and a third nut seat 3172. The third nut seat 3172 is sleeved on the second lead screw 3171 and the two are threadedly connected. The third nut seat 3172 is connected to the inner support member 3142 through a guide shaft 3173. The height adjustment component 317 also includes a second motor 3174, which is drivenly connected to the second lead screw 3171.
[0040] When the second motor 3174 drives the second lead screw 3171 to rotate, the third nut seat 3172 will make precise linear movements along the axis of the second lead screw 3171. By precisely controlling the moving distance of the third nut seat 3172, the height of the sock heel stretching assembly 314 can be adjusted to meet the fine requirements of different sock heel stretching heights, thereby improving the accuracy of defect detection. The threaded connection between the second lead screw 3171 and the third nut seat 3172 has self-locking properties. When the second motor 3174 stops rotating, the third nut seat 3172 will automatically... Locked in its current position, it will not slide or move due to external forces or its own weight, thus ensuring the stability of the sock heel opening and facilitating the smooth progress of the defect detection process. Since the third nut seat 3172 is connected to the inner support member 3142 through the guide shaft 3173, the guide shaft 3173 provides precise guidance for the linear movement of the third nut seat 3172 and the inner support member 3142, so that they can only move in a straight line along the axis of the second lead screw 3171, avoiding the shaking or tilting of the inner support member 3142 due to movement deviation, and further improving the operational stability of the device.
[0041] As an example of this utility model, the side of the outer support member 3141 is provided with a first protrusion 31413, the first protrusion 31413 is provided with a through hole 31414, the first protrusion 31413 is slidably assembled into the second limiting groove 31423, the sock heel spreading assembly 314 also includes an insert post, the insert post passes through the through hole 31414 and is fixedly connected to the side walls on both sides of the second limiting groove 31423.
[0042] This design tightly connects the outer support 3141 and the inner support 3142 together, while the insertion post effectively prevents the outer support 3141 from falling out of the second limiting groove 31423 when under stress, ensuring the integrity and stability of the sock heel spreading assembly 314 structure. When the outer support 3141 is subjected to external force during movement, it can distribute the stress to the inner support 3142, thereby avoiding excessive local stress on the outer support 3141 and causing deformation or damage, thus improving the reliability and stability of the entire sock heel spreading assembly 314.
[0043] As a force-applying component of this utility model, the tops of the outer support 3141 and the inner support 3142 are respectively provided with a first connecting hole 31412 and a second connecting hole 31422 for fixed connection of the two ends of the spring sheet 3143. This design is simple in structure and easy to manufacture.
[0044] Preferably, the vertical moving member 313 includes a pull rod 3131 and a sleeve 3132. The sleeve 3132 is sleeved around the pull rod 3131. The sock-supporting assembly 31 also includes a first motor 316 and a first transmission member 315 connected to each other. The first transmission member 315 is connected to the sleeve 3132 and the pull rod 3131 respectively, and is used to drive the sleeve 3132 and the pull rod 3131 to move in opposite directions, thereby simultaneously applying force to the upper and lower sides of the first sock-supporting member 311 to open it up.
[0045] This setup controls the opening degree of the first sock stretcher 311 by controlling the output of the first motor 316, thus meeting the defect detection requirements of socks of different sizes and specifications, and has a wide range of applications; at the same time, it applies force evenly to the upper and lower parts of the first sock stretcher 311, avoiding the situation where the upper or lower part is unevenly stressed and the opening degree is different due to the traditional sock stretcher tool, thereby avoiding local overstretching or loosening and improving the accuracy of defect detection.
[0046] Preferably, the first transmission member 315 is located on the side of the vertical moving member 313 and includes a first lead screw 3151, a first nut seat 3152, and a second nut seat 3153. The first nut seat 3152 and the second nut seat 3153 are spaced apart from each other and sleeved on the first lead screw 3151. The first nut seat 3152 is connected to the first lead screw 3151 by a reverse thread and is connected to the sleeve 3132. The second nut seat 3153 is connected to the first lead screw 3151 by a positive thread and is connected to the pull rod 3131.
[0047] This configuration easily converts the rotational motion of the first lead screw 3151 into the linear motion of the pull rod 3131 and the sleeve 3132, meeting the requirement of the sock-stretching assembly 31 applying force to the sock from both above and below simultaneously, ensuring that the sock can be stretched stably and evenly. It reduces the number and complexity of parts, lowers the manufacturing cost and maintenance difficulty of the device, and improves the reliability and stability of the device. It should be noted that the first nut seat 3152 can also have a positive thread connected to the first lead screw 3151 and the pull rod 3131, while the second nut seat 3153 can have a negative thread connected to the first lead screw 3151 and the sleeve 3132.
[0048] Preferably, the first transmission component 315 further includes guide rods 3154, which are two in number and located on both sides of the first lead screw 3151, to ensure that the first nut seat 3152 and the second nut seat 3153 move up and down along a predetermined trajectory.
[0049] This setup provides radial constraints on the first nut seat 3152 and the second nut seat 3153 via the guide rod 3154, limiting their rotational degrees of freedom and allowing them to move linearly along the guide rod 3154 to eliminate rotational deviations, thus greatly improving the straightness and accuracy of the motion. At the same time, it can withstand some lateral forces to reduce the burden on the first lead screw 3151, enhancing the structural rigidity of the entire transmission component and making it less prone to deformation or damage when subjected to large loads or external impacts.
[0050] Preferably, the stocking support assembly 31 further includes a second stocking support member 318, which is arranged at intervals with the first stocking support member 311 along the periphery of the stocking support tube 312 and is constrained at both ends by elastic members.
[0051] This design uses elastic elements to allow the first sock stretcher 311 and the second sock stretcher 318 to expand outwards at equal intervals, thereby evenly stretching the sock and ensuring that the shape and size of the sock remain regular after stretching, thus improving the stretching quality of the sock. As an example of this utility model, the top end of the first sock stretcher 311 is provided with an ear plate 3114 for limiting the assembly of the elastic elements. This design ensures that the surface of the first sock stretcher 311 is smooth, facilitating the insertion of the sock for defect detection.
[0052] Multiple second sock stretcher components 318 may be present and extend along the length of the sock stretcher tube 312. This arrangement increases the contact area with the sock, allowing it to stretch the sock better, while also ensuring ease of assembly. Preferably, the outer wall surfaces of the first sock stretcher component 311 and the second sock stretcher component 318 are arc-shaped projected onto the horizontal plane and lie on the same circumference. This arrangement allows the sock stretcher assembly 31 to have a large contact area with the sock, resulting in a small detection error.
[0053] Preferably, the stocking support tube 312 is provided with a strip-shaped hole 3121 for assembling the first stocking support member 311. The first stocking support member 311 has a first inclined surface 3112 and a second inclined surface 3113 at its two ends, respectively. The first inclined surface 3112 and the second inclined surface 3113 are located on the side of the first stocking support member 311 away from the first limiting groove 3111. The upper end of the pull rod 3131 is provided with an upper cone head 3133, the tip of which faces downward and abuts against the first inclined surface 3112. The top outer periphery of the sleeve 3132 is provided with a lower cone head 3134, the tip of which faces upward and abuts against the second inclined surface 3113.
[0054] This design eliminates the need for traditional lateral moving parts, converting the vertical movement of the vertical moving part 313 into the horizontal movement of the first support sock part 311. This results in stable and reliable transmission and simple assembly. The second support sock part 318 also has a first inclined surface 3112 and a second inclined surface 3113 at both ends, which are used to abut against the upper cone head 3133 and the lower cone head 3134, respectively; further details will not be provided here.
[0055] Preferably, the top of the stocking support tube 312 forms a third inclined surface 3122, and the first stocking support member 311 and / or the second stocking support member 318 are disposed below the third inclined surface 3122. This arrangement causes the upper end of the stocking support tube 312 to gradually narrow, making it convenient for socks to be put on the stocking support assembly 31.
[0056] As an example of this utility model, the lower end of the pull rod 3131 is provided with a first guide sleeve 31311, which is fitted with the second nut seat 3153 for limiting assembly. The lower end of the sleeve 3132 is provided with a second guide sleeve 31321, which is fitted with the first nut seat 3152 for limiting assembly.
[0057] This configuration provides precise guide paths for the pull rod 3131 and sleeve 3132 respectively. Driven by the first nut seat 3152 and the second nut seat 3153, the pull rod 3131 and sleeve 3132 can only move along the specified straight line direction, ensuring the straightness and accuracy of the movement. At the same time, it enables the pull rod 3131 and sleeve 3132 to be subjected to uniform constraint force during the movement, making the movement more stable and smooth, and improving the operational stability of the entire device.
[0058] Preferably, the sock-supporting rotating assembly 300 further includes a mounting frame 32, and the sock-supporting tube 312 of the sock-supporting assembly 31 is mounted on the mounting frame 32 via a bearing 33; the sock-supporting rotating assembly 300 further includes a second transmission component 34 and a drive motor 35, and the drive motor 35 drives the sock-supporting tube 312 to rotate via the second transmission component 34.
[0059] This setup uses the sock-supporting assembly 31 to rotate the socks synchronously, allowing the sock surface to be fully displayed in front of the camera and other inspection equipment. This captures information from various parts of the sock, including the cuff, body, heel, and toe, improving the accuracy and comprehensiveness of sock defect detection. Furthermore, it ensures that the time and angle of light exposure on different parts of the sock surface are relatively uniform, facilitating the acquisition of clearer and more accurate sock images, reducing misjudgments caused by uneven lighting, and improving the reliability of the inspection. The second transmission component 34 consists of a belt and rollers, which will not be described in detail here.
[0060] The mounting bracket 32 includes a first horizontal plate 321 and a second horizontal plate 322 spaced apart. The stocking support tube 312 is mounted on the first horizontal plate 321 via a bearing 33. The drive motor 35 is located on the side of the stocking support tube 312 and fixed on the second horizontal plate 322.
[0061] This configuration allows the stocking support tube 312 to be mounted on the first horizontal plate 321 via the bearing 33. Its weight and the force generated during operation are mainly borne by the first horizontal plate 321, while the second horizontal plate 322 provides a stable support for the drive motor 35. This makes the force on the entire mounting frame 32 more even and reasonable, reducing structural deformation or damage caused by excessive local stress and improving the overall stability of the equipment. Since there is a certain distance between the second horizontal plate 322 and the first horizontal plate 321, the vibration will be attenuated to a certain extent during transmission, thereby reducing the impact of vibration on the stocking support tube 312 and ensuring the accuracy and stability of the detection and sorting process.
[0062] Preferably, the lower end of the first sock support member 311 is provided with clearance portions 3115 on both sides, and the periphery of the sock support tube 312 is provided with annular protruding ribs 3123 for limiting the upper part of the bearing 33. This arrangement can avoid interference between the first sock support member 311 and the assembly of the bearing 33, and the structure is more compact. Preferably, the mounting bracket 32 also includes a third horizontal plate 323, which is located on the side of the second horizontal plate 322 away from the first horizontal plate 321, for fixing and assembling the first motor 316.
[0063] This setup forms a multi-layered support structure, effectively reducing the shaking or deformation of the mounting frame 32 caused by motor operation, ensuring the equipment remains stable during long-term operation, and providing a reliable foundation for accurate sock sorting operations; at the same time, it distributes the forces generated by components such as the first motor 316, drive motor 35, and sock support cylinder 312 onto the plate, avoiding excessive local stress and extending service life.
[0064] The mounting bracket 32 also includes a first vertical plate 324 and a second vertical plate 325, which provide support for the first horizontal plate 321, the second horizontal plate 322, and the third horizontal plate 323. Their specific assembly relationship is prior art and will not be described further here.
[0065] As an example of this utility model, the sock heel stretching assembly 314 further includes a push ring 3144 and a bottom ring 3145 sleeved around the sock support tube 312. The bottom ring 3145 is located below the push ring 3144. The inner wall surfaces of the push ring 3144 and the bottom ring 3145 are respectively provided with a first annular groove 31441 and a second annular groove 31451. The lower ends of the outer support member 3141 and the inner support member 3142 are respectively provided with a first protrusion 31411 and a second protrusion 31421. The first protrusion 31411 is limited and assembled to the first annular groove 31441, and the second protrusion 31421 is limited and assembled to the second annular groove 31451. The output unit 3146 is fixed on the bottom ring 3145 and drivenly connected to the push ring 3144. The bottom ring 3145 is connected to the guide shaft 3173.
[0066] This setup utilizes the push ring 3144 and bottom ring 3145 to ensure constant contact with the outer support member 3141 and inner support member 3142, stably adjusting and opening the stocking hem stretching assembly 314 without interfering with the rotation of the stocking tube 312, thus enabling the stretching and rotation of the stocking.
[0067] First, the sock to be inspected is placed on the sock support tube 312. Then, the first motor 316 moves the pull rod 3131 downward through the first transmission component 315, while the sleeve 3132 moves upward in sync, causing the first sock support component 311 and the second sock support component 318 to move away from the central axis of the sock support tube 312, thus spreading the sock open. Then, the output unit 3146 drives the outer support component 3141 to move upward relative to the inner support component 3142, causing the two ends of the spring plate 3143 to squeeze each other and protrude outward, thus spreading the sock heel. The orientation of the sock heel spreading component 314 on the circumference can be set according to the orientation of the sock in the process parameters so that it is set directly opposite the sock heel. The protrusion degree of the spring plate 3143 can be adjusted by adjusting the parameters of the output unit 3146 to adapt to different socks. If necessary, the height of the sock heel spreading component 1 can be adjusted by adjusting the height component 317 to adapt to different sizes of socks. Finally, the sock support tube 312 is rotated by the drive motor 35 for defect detection.
[0068] While the present invention has been disclosed above, it is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can make various modifications and alterations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention; therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope defined in the claims.
Claims
1. A fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine, comprising a frame (200), characterized in that, The frame (200) is provided with a sock-supporting rotation assembly (300) for supporting the heel of the sock and rotating it 360° in the horizontal direction; a detection assembly (100) is provided on the side of the sock-supporting rotation assembly (300), the detection assembly (100) includes a detection module (14) for acquiring image information of the heel of the sock at a first height with a first tilt angle and at a second height with a second tilt angle for defect detection.
2. The fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detection component (100) includes a transport X-axis (11) horizontally arranged on the frame (200). The transport X-axis (11) includes a movable sliding seat (113). A transport Y-axis (12) is arranged on the sliding seat (113). The transport Y-axis (12) includes an assembly plate (124) that can slide vertically. The assembly plate (124) is vertically arranged and has an angle α with the transport X-axis (11), and the value of α is 15°-75°. It is used to install the detection module (14).
3. The fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The assembly plate (124) is provided with a notch (1241). The detection module (14) includes a first light source (142) and a second light source (143) located on both sides of the notch (1241). The first light source (142) and the second light source (143) are elongated and extend in the vertical direction. The detection module (14) also includes a camera module (141) located at the notch (1241).
4. The fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The camera module (141) includes a first camera (1411) and a first drive motor (1412). The first drive motor (1412) is located on the side of the mounting plate (124) away from the sock rotation assembly (300) and is drivenly connected to the first camera (1411) to enable the first camera (1411) to switch between a first tilt angle and a second tilt angle.
5. The fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sock-supporting rotating assembly (300) includes a sock-supporting assembly (31), which includes a first sock-supporting member (311). The outer wall surface of the first sock-supporting member (311) is provided with a first limiting groove (3111) for accommodating a sock-heel spreading assembly (314). The sock-heel spreading assembly (314) includes a spring plate (3143) and an output unit (3146). Under the action of the output unit (3146), the spring plate (3143) protrudes outward from the sock-supporting tube (312) to spread the heel of the sock.
6. The fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine according to claim 5, characterized in that, The sock heel stretching assembly (314) also includes an outer support member (3141), which is slidably assembled into the first limiting groove (3111). The two ends of the outer support member (3141) are respectively connected to the spring sheet (3143) and the output unit (3146).
7. The fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, The sock heel stretching assembly (314) further includes an inner support member (3142), which is slidably assembled into the first limiting groove (3111). The inner support member (3142) is provided with a second limiting groove (31423). The outer support member (3141) is slidably assembled into the second limiting groove (31423). The spring sheet (3143) is connected to the outer support member (3141) and the inner support member (3142) respectively. The inner support member (3142) is drivenly connected to the height adjustment assembly (317).
8. The fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine according to claim 7, characterized in that, The sock heel stretching assembly (314) further includes a push ring (3144) and a bottom ring (3145) disposed around the sock tube (312). The bottom ring (3145) is located below the push ring (3144). The inner wall surfaces of the push ring (3144) and the bottom ring (3145) are provided with a first annular groove (31441) for limiting the assembly of the outer support member (3141). The inner wall surface of the bottom ring (3145) is provided with a second annular groove (31451) for limiting the assembly of the inner support member (3142). The output unit (3146) is fixed to the bottom ring (3145) and drivenly connected to the push ring (3144). The bottom ring (3145) is connected to the height adjustment assembly (317).
9. The fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine according to claim 8, characterized in that, The height adjustment assembly (317) includes a second lead screw (3171) and a third nut seat (3172). The third nut seat (3172) is sleeved on the second lead screw (3171) and the two are threaded together. The third nut seat (3172) is connected to the inner support member (3142) through a guide shaft (3173). The height adjustment assembly (317) also includes a second motor (3174), which is connected to the second lead screw (3171) for transmission.
10. The fully automatic sock inspection and sorting machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The frame (200) is provided with a temporary platform (400). The temporary platform (400) and the sock-supporting rotating assembly (300) are respectively located at both ends of the same side of the transport X-axis (11). The transport Y-axis (12) is provided with a clamping assembly (13) on the side near the sock-supporting rotating assembly (300) for transferring socks located on the sock-supporting rotating assembly (300) to the temporary platform (400).