Conveyance system

Abstract

To provide a conveyance system that can apply light to conveyed objects, and has high versatility.SOLUTION: A conveyance system includes: a discharge unit for discharging objects; a conveyance apparatus; and an illumination device. The conveyance apparatus comprises: a first conveyance unit for conveying objects; and a second conveyance unit which is provided between the first conveyance unit and the discharge unit, to convey objects delivered from the first conveyance unit. The illumination device radiates light onto the objects conveyed by the first conveyance unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a conveying system.

Background Art

[0002] Light is widely applied to objects conveyed on a conveyor.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a highly versatile conveying system capable of applying light to an object to be conveyed.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] According to an embodiment, a conveying system includes a discharging unit that discharges an object, a conveying device, and a lighting device. The conveying device includes a first conveying unit that conveys the object, and a second conveying unit that is provided between the first conveying unit and the discharging unit and conveys the object delivered from the first conveying unit. The lighting device irradiates light onto the object conveyed to the first conveying unit.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

[0007] The conveying system (10) according to the embodiment includes a discharging unit (14; 120) that discharges an object (S1; S2); a conveying device (12; 118); and a lighting device (42; 116). The conveying device (12; 118) includes a first conveying unit (22; 132; 142) that conveys the object (S1; S2), and a second conveying unit (24; 134; 144) that is provided between the first conveying unit (22; 132; 142) and the discharging unit (14; 120) and conveys the object (S1; S2) delivered from the first conveying unit (22; 132; 142). The lighting device (42; 116) irradiates light onto the object (S1; S2) conveyed to the first conveying unit (22; 132; 142). Therefore, it is possible to provide a highly versatile conveying system (10) capable of applying light to the conveyed object (S1; S2).

[0008] The first conveying unit (22; 132) is provided upstream of the discharging unit (14; 120). Also, the second conveying unit (24; 134; 144) is provided downstream of the first conveying unit (22; 132; 142). Therefore, by arranging the paths of the conveying devices (14; 118) vertically, space can be saved in the horizontal direction of the conveying system (10).

[0009] The component of the conveying direction by the first conveying unit (22; 132; 142) and the component of the conveying direction by the second conveying unit (24; 134; 144) are opposite to each other. As in this embodiment, since the component in the conveying direction by the first conveying unit (22; 132; 142) and the component in the conveying direction by the second conveying unit (24; 134; 144) are opposite to each other, compared with the case where the first conveying unit and the second conveying unit are connected in the horizontal direction, the required space in the horizontal direction of the conveying device (12; 118) can be made space-saving.

[0010] The lighting device (42) of the conveying system (10) includes a first light source unit (42a) that irradiates light onto the object (S1) conveyed by the first conveying unit (22); and a second light source unit (42b) that irradiates light in a wavelength range different from the light from the first light source unit (42a) onto the object (S1) conveyed by the first conveying unit (22). The conveying system (10) includes an imaging unit (44) that acquires a first image by the light using the first light source unit (42a) and a second image by the light using the second light source unit (42b). The conveying system (10) has a control unit (46) that controls the first light source unit (42a), the second light source unit (42b), and the imaging unit (44), and determines the presence or absence of foreign matter in the object using the first image and the second image. The first light source unit (42a) and the second light source unit (42b) can irradiate light in different wavelength ranges from each other, and the reflected light can be acquired as an image by the imaging unit. For this reason, for example, when the control unit (46) controls the first light source unit (42a) to illuminate the object (S1) with white light and the imaging unit (44) acquires the light, the color of the object (S1) is acquired. Also, for example, when the control unit (46) controls the second light source unit (42b) to illuminate the object (S1) with light in a wavelength range different from the wavelength range of white light (for example, UV light) and the imaging unit (44) acquires the light, foreign matter can be detected. Therefore, by adjusting the wavelength range of the first light source unit (42a), the light in the wavelength range of the second light source unit (42b), and the imaging unit (44) according to the object (S1), and acquiring the first image by the light from the first light source unit (42a) and the second image by the light from the second light source unit (42b) by the imaging unit (44), the control unit (46) can make it easier to detect foreign matter.

[0011] The distance from the first conveying unit (22) to the discharging unit (14) is equal to or less than half of the conveying path from the first conveying unit (22) through the second conveying unit (24) to the discharging unit (14). For example, when foreign matter is mixed in the object (S1), if there is an appropriate time before the foreign matter reaches the discharging unit (14), it is possible to easily discharge (discard) the area where the foreign matter exists and the areas before and after it at the discharging unit (14). Therefore, a long conveying path is ensured from the position for determining the presence or absence of foreign matter in the object (S1) to the discharging unit (14), and the portion of the object (S1) where foreign matter is mixed can be easily discharged at the exhaust unit (14).

[0012] The first conveying unit (132; 142) and the second conveying unit (134; 144) can transfer the object (S2) through their respective ends. At least a part of the first conveying unit (132; 142) and the second conveying unit (134; 144) is offset in a top view. The lighting device (116) is arranged at a position where the light from the lighting device (116) can irradiate the object (S2) passing through the first conveying unit (132; 142) and the object (S2) passing through the second conveying unit (134; 144). The light from the lighting device (116) can be conveyed downstream while surely hitting the object (S2). Therefore, for example, when the light from the lighting device (116) is UV light, the object (S2) can be sterilized when the object (S2) is conveyed from the first conveying unit (132; 142) to the second conveying unit (134; 144) while performing sterilization.

[0013] The first conveying unit (132; 142) and the second conveying unit (134; 144) are provided in a V shape in a top view. Therefore, for example, when illumination is performed from the lighting device (116) from above, the first conveying unit (132; 142) and the second conveying unit (134; 144) have non-overlapping portions in a top view, and it is possible to easily apply illumination light to the object (S2). Also, by arranging the lighting device (116) in a more space-saving area in the horizontal direction, the light from the lighting device (116) can be applied to the object (S2).

[0014] The conveying system (10) is provided between the second conveying unit (134; 144) and the discharging unit (120), and includes a third conveying unit (136; 146) for conveying the object (S2). The second conveying unit (134; 144) and the third conveying unit (136; 146) can transfer the object (S2) through their respective ends. At least a part of the first conveying unit (132; 142), the second conveying unit (134; 144), and the third conveying unit (136; 146) is offset in a top view. The lighting device (116) is disposed at a position where the light from the lighting device (116) can irradiate the object (S2) passing through the third conveying unit (136; 146) in addition to the object (S2) passing through the first conveying unit (132; 142) and the object (S2) passing through the second conveying unit (134; 144). Even when the object (S2) is placed on the third conveying unit (136; 146) in addition to the first conveying unit (132; 142) and the second conveying unit (134; 144), light is applied from the lighting device (116) to the object (S2). Therefore, after more reliably applying light to the object (S2), the object (S2) can be discharged by the discharging unit (114).

[0015] The first conveying unit (132; 142), the second conveying unit (134; 144), and the third conveying unit (136; 146) are provided in a Z shape or a spiral shape in a top view. For this reason, for example, when illumination is performed from the lighting device (116) from above, the first conveying unit (132; 142) and the second conveying unit (134; 144) have non-overlapping portions in a top view, and it is possible to easily apply illumination light to the object (S2). Further, by arranging the lighting device (116) in a more space-saving area in the horizontal direction, the light from the lighting device (116) can be applied to the object (S2).

[0016] The conveying system (10) includes a housing that covers the first conveying unit (132; 142) and the second conveying unit (134; 144). The lighting device (116) irradiates ultraviolet rays to the object (S2) conveyed by the first conveying unit (132; 142) and the second conveying unit (134; 144). Therefore, the object (S2) can be sterilized by the ultraviolet rays irradiated from the lighting device (116).

[0017] The ultraviolet irradiation method according to the embodiment includes irradiating an object (S2) moving on a first conveyor (132; 142) with ultraviolet rays from a lighting device (116); arranging a part of the first conveyor (132; 142) at least partially offset from the first conveyor (132; 142) in a top view below the first conveyor (132; 142), and irradiating an object (S2) moving on a second conveyor (134; 144) following the first conveyor (132; 142) with ultraviolet rays from the lighting device (116). Therefore, the object (S2) conveyed in order by the first conveyor (132; 142) and the second conveyor (134; 144) can be sterilized.

[0018] The lighting device (116) according to the embodiment irradiates ultraviolet rays onto a conveyor (118) having a first conveyor (132; 142) and a second conveyor (134; 144) arranged below the first conveyor (132; 142) in a state where at least a part thereof is offset from the first conveyor (132; 142) in a top view and following the first conveyor (132; 142). The lighting device (116) is provided above the first conveyor (132; 142) and above the second conveyor (134; 144), and includes a surface light emitting portion that irradiates ultraviolet rays. By forming the lighting device (116) in this way, ultraviolet rays are irradiated onto the first conveyor (132; 142) and the second conveyor (134; 144) from above the first conveyor (132; 142) and above the second conveyor (134; 144), and the object (S2) conveyed on the first conveyor (132; 142) and on the second conveyor (134; 144) can be sterilized.

[0019] The surface light emitting portion (116) is provided directly above the first conveyor (132; 142) and directly above the second conveyor (134; 144). Therefore, ultraviolet rays can be irradiated onto the first conveying unit (132; 142) and the second conveying unit (134) from directly above the first conveying unit (132; 142) and directly above the second conveying unit (134), and sterilization of the object (S2) conveyed on the first conveying unit (132; 142) and on the second conveying unit (134; 144) can be performed.

[0020] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0021] (First Embodiment) The conveying system (foreign object inspection device) 10 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a conveying system (foreign object inspection device) 10 connected to a downstream conveying conveyor 8 according to the present embodiment.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 1, the conveying system 10 includes a conveying device 12, a discharge unit 14, and an image inspection device 16.

[0024] Here, with respect to FIG. 1, an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system is set. The X-axis direction is the conveying direction of the conveying units 22, 24, 26 of the conveying device 12. The Y-axis direction is the width direction (depth direction) of the conveying units 22, 24, 26 of the conveying device 12. The Z-axis direction is the vertical direction.

[0025] The conveying device 12 here includes a region for inspecting by the image inspection device 16 whether a foreign object is mixed in the object S1 conveyed by the conveying device 12. And in case a foreign object is mixed in the conveyed object S1 and the object S1 including the foreign object is to be discharged, the conveying device 12 is formed so as to have a longer path length.

[0026] The conveying device 12 includes, for example, a first conveying unit 22 where an object S1 is continuously supplied, for example, and an image inspection device 16 is disposed above; a second conveying unit 24 disposed below the first conveying unit 22 and conveyed in the opposite direction which is different from the conveying direction of the first conveying unit 22; and a third conveying unit 26 disposed below the second conveying unit 24 and conveyed in the opposite direction which is different from the conveying direction of the second conveying unit 24. Note that the conveying direction of the third conveying unit 26 may be different from both the conveying direction of the first conveying unit 22 and the conveying direction of the second conveying unit 24. The conveying directions of the object S1 by the first conveying unit 22, the second conveying unit 24, and the third conveying unit 26 are each, for example, horizontal. Therefore, the conveying device 12 is formed in three stages in the vertical direction in this embodiment.

[0027] The component of the conveying direction by the first conveying unit 22 (+X-axis direction) and the component of the conveying direction by the second conveying unit 24 (-X-axis direction) are opposite to each other. Therefore, as in this embodiment, since the component of the conveying direction by the first conveying unit 22 (+X-axis direction) and the component of the conveying direction by the second conveying unit 24 (-X-axis direction) are opposite to each other, compared with the case where the first conveying unit and the second conveying unit are connected in the horizontal direction, the required horizontal space of the conveying device 12 can be made space-saving.

[0028] Also, the component of the conveying direction by the second conveying unit 24 (-X-axis direction) and the component of the conveying direction by the third conveying unit 26 (+X-axis direction) are opposite to each other. Therefore, as in this embodiment, further, since the component of the conveying direction by the second conveying unit 24 (-X-axis direction) and the component of the conveying direction by the third conveying unit 26 (+X-axis direction) are opposite to each other, compared with the case where the first conveying unit, the second conveying unit, and the third conveying unit are connected in the horizontal direction, the required horizontal space of the conveying device 12 can be made space-saving.

[0029] Below the downstream end position of the first transport unit 22 is a position between the upstream end and the downstream end of the second transport unit 24 and is a position downstream of the upstream end of the second transport unit 24. Below the downstream end position of the second transport unit 24 is a position between the upstream end and the downstream end of the third transport unit 26 and is a position downstream of the upstream end of the third transport unit 26.

[0030] In the present embodiment, when the transport device 12 is viewed from above on the upper side of the first transport unit 22, it is preferable that a part of the second transport unit 24 overlaps the first transport unit 22 and a part of the downstream side of the second transport unit 24 cannot be visually recognized. When the transport device 12 is viewed from above on the upper side of the first transport unit 22, among the second transport unit 24, what can be visually recognized is the upstream end portion of the second transport unit 24.

[0031] Also, when the transport device 12 is viewed from above on the upper side of the second transport unit 24 and below the first transport unit 22, it is preferable that a part of the third transport unit 26 overlaps the second transport unit 24 and a part of the downstream side of the third transport unit 26 cannot be visually recognized. And when the transport device 12 is viewed from above on the upper side of the second transport unit 24 and below the first transport unit 22, among the third transport unit 26, what can be visually recognized is the upstream end portion of the third transport unit 26.

[0032] In FIG. 1, the vertical distance between the first transport unit 22 and the second transport unit 24 is shown to be larger than the vertical distance between the second transport unit 24 and the third transport unit 26. The vertical distance between the first transport unit 22 and the second transport unit 24 may be the same as the vertical distance between the second transport unit 24 and the third transport unit 26. Or the vertical distance between the first transport unit 22 and the second transport unit 24 may be smaller than the vertical distance between the second transport unit 24 and the third transport unit 26.

[0033] Note that the downstream end of the first transport unit 22 may be appropriately inclined so as to approach the upstream end of the second transport unit 24. Also, the downstream end of the second transport unit 24 may be appropriately inclined so as to approach the upstream end of the third transport unit 26.

[0034] In this embodiment, the discharge unit 14 is provided adjacent to the downstream side of the downstream end of the third transport unit 26.

[0035] The discharge unit 14 includes a discharge conveyor 32 that is swingable (switchable) between a feeding position (solid line) for sending the object S1 to the downstream conveyor 8 on the further downstream side and a discharging position (dashed line) for discharging the object.

[0036] For this reason, the discharge unit 14 is provided on the downstream side of the transport device 12 and is used to collectively discharge the portion of the object S1 in which foreign matter is mixed and appropriate weight portions before and after that portion.

[0037] In this embodiment, the (linear) distance from the downstream end of the first transport unit 22 to the discharge unit 14 is less than or equal to half of the transport path from the first transport unit 22 through the second transport unit 24 and the third transport unit 26 to the discharge unit 14. In other words, it is preferable that the transport path of the object S1, which is the sum of the distance from the downstream end of the first transport unit 22 to the downstream end of the second transport unit 24 and the distance from the downstream end of the second transport unit 24 to the downstream end of the third transport unit 26, is greater than twice the (linear) distance from the first transport unit 22 to the discharge unit 14.

[0038] The image inspection device 16 detects whether foreign matter is mixed in the object S1 being transported by the transport device 12 and determines the presence or absence of foreign matter in the object S1.

[0039] The image inspection device 16 is preferably provided above a position closer to the downstream end than the upstream end between the upstream end and the downstream end of the first transport unit 22. For this reason, the image inspection device 16 can detect the mixing of foreign matter and the like at an upstream position in the transport system 10 that is far from the discharge unit 14 along the transport path.

[0040] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the image inspection device 16 of the transport system 10 as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow II in FIG. 1. Here, an example of inspecting for the mixing of foreign matter in coarsely ground meat will be described as the object S1. Coarsely ground meat is usually in a state where an appropriate red color of the protein part and the white color of the fat part are mixed.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 2, the image inspection apparatus 16 includes an illumination device 42, an imaging unit 44, and a control unit 46 that controls the illumination device 42 and the imaging unit 44. In the present embodiment, the imaging unit 44 includes a first camera 52 and a second camera 54. The first camera 52 and the second camera 54 are arranged side by side. As an example, the optical axes of the first camera 52 and the second camera 54 are vertically downward.

[0042] The first camera 52 is used to obtain an image of the reflected light of white light when white light is irradiated onto the first transport unit 22 of the transport device 12. The second camera 54 is used to obtain an image of the reflected light of UV light when UV light is irradiated onto the first transport unit 22 of the transport device 12. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the first camera 52 and the second camera 54 are arranged between the two illumination devices 42. If it is possible to execute both the acquisition of the image performed by the first camera 52 and the acquisition of the image performed by the second camera 54 with a single camera, the number of cameras may be one.

[0043] The illumination device 42 includes a first light source unit 42a and a second light source unit 42b. The first light source unit 42a creates white light using, for example, LEDs that emit red, green, and blue light. Alternatively, the first light source unit 42a may create white light by causing a yellow phosphor to emit light with an LED that emits blue light. The second light source unit 42b emits ultraviolet light (UV light) in a wavelength range of, for example, 400 nm.

[0044] The first camera 52 acquires a subject image of the object S1 being transported under white illumination under the control of the control unit 46. Based on the subject image acquired by the first camera 52, the control unit 46 detects the presence or absence of foreign substances that are of a color or material different from that of the rough minced meat (protein part, fat part), such as a blue resin film or a black resin piece, and determines the presence or absence of foreign substances in the object S1.

[0045] A band - pass filter 54a that blocks wavelengths different from the wavelength of UV light (400 nm) is installed in the lens portion of the second camera 54. The second camera 54 acquires a subject image of the object S1 being conveyed under UV light illumination under the control of the control unit 46. Based on the subject image acquired by the second camera 54, the control unit 46 detects the presence or absence of white label foreign substances (e.g., paper or PET) that can have the same color as the fat portion of the coarsely ground meat.

[0046] Note that the arrangements of the first light source unit 42a and the second light source unit 42b can be set as appropriate. As shown in FIG. 2, the first light source unit 42a and the second light source unit 42b may be arranged on the upstream side in the conveyance direction with respect to the camera, or the first light source unit 42a and the second light source unit 42b may be arranged on the downstream side in the conveyance direction with respect to the camera. As an example in this case, the first light source unit 42a and the second light source unit 42b are arranged in a matrix. Also, only one of the first light source unit 42a and the second light source unit 42b may be arranged on the upstream side in the conveyance direction with respect to the camera, or only the other of the first light source unit 42a and the second light source unit 42b may be arranged on the downstream side in the conveyance direction with respect to the camera.

[0047] Hereinafter, an example of performing a foreign - object mixing inspection on coarsely ground meat as the object S1 using the conveyance system (foreign - object inspection device) 10 according to this embodiment will be described. And it is assumed that when foreign substances are found to be mixed in the coarsely ground meat as the object S1, it is required to remove the coarsely ground meat, which is the object S1, before and after the detection position of the foreign substances, by a predetermined weight each.

[0048] The coarsely ground meat is conveyed as the object S1 on the first conveyance unit 22. The coarsely ground meat as the object S1 is spread in a state where it has approximately the same density per unit area in the width direction of the first conveyance unit 22, and is conveyed continuously and almost evenly, with approximately the same weight per unit time.

[0049] The control unit 46 repeatedly turns on and off the first light source unit 42a and the second light source unit 42b of the lighting device 42 continuously or at appropriate time intervals. Therefore, the first camera 52 acquires a first image, for example, continuously or at appropriate time intervals, and the second camera 54 acquires a second image, for example, continuously or at appropriate time intervals.

[0050] Note that it is preferable that the control unit 46 causes the first camera 52 to acquire a first image when the first light source unit 42a is emitting light (lit) and the second light source unit 42b is turned off, and causes the second camera 54 to acquire a second image when the first light source unit 42a is turned off and the second light source unit 42b is emitting light (lit).

[0051] By repeating such operations, the coarsely ground meat, which is the object S1 being conveyed on the first conveyor unit 22, is imaged by at least the first camera 52 and the second camera 54 once.

[0052] And assume that the control unit 46 does not find a foreign object of a color different from that of the coarsely ground meat, such as a white label foreign object (e.g., paper or PET), or a blue resin film or a black resin piece, in the coarsely ground meat as the object S1. In this case, the coarsely ground meat (object S1) is conveyed through the conveying paths of the conveyors 22, 24, and 26 shown in FIG. 1 and further through the feeding position (solid line) of the discharge conveyor 32 of the discharge unit 14 to the downstream conveyor 8.

[0053] Therefore, the part of the object S1 where no foreign object is detected is conveyed to the downstream conveying conveyor 8 and further conveyed downstream.

[0054] Assume that the control unit 46 finds a foreign object of a color different from that of the coarsely ground meat, such as a white label foreign object (e.g., paper or PET), or a blue resin film or a black resin piece, in the coarsely ground meat as the object S1. That is, the control unit 46 determines that foreign object contamination has been detected in the object S1.

[0055] At this time, the control unit 46 calculates the time for the object S1 at the position where foreign matter is detected to reach the discharge unit 14 based on the conveyance speeds and conveyance path lengths of the first conveyance unit 22, the second conveyance unit 24, and the third conveyance unit 26. Such time calculation is obtained based on the path lengths of the conveyance units 22, 24, 26, the feed speeds of the conveyance units 22, 24, 26, the height between the conveyance units 22, 24, and the height between the conveyance units 24, 26, etc.

[0056] Then, the control unit 46 switches the discharge conveyor 32 of the discharge unit 14 from the feed position (solid line) to the discharge position (dashed line) by an appropriate time before the arrival time when the position where foreign matter is detected reaches the discharge unit 14. Also, the control unit 46 maintains the discharge conveyor 32 of the discharge unit 14 at the discharge position (dashed line) until an appropriate time has elapsed after the arrival time when the position where foreign matter is detected reaches the discharge unit 14. Then, the control unit 46 returns the discharge conveyor 32 from the discharge position (dashed line) to the feed position (solid line) after an appropriate time has elapsed after the arrival time when the position where foreign matter is detected reaches the discharge unit 14. For this reason, the discharge unit 14 can discharge (discard) the object S1 of a predetermined weight before and after including the position where foreign matter is detected.

[0057] Therefore, according to the present embodiment, by using a white light source as the first light source unit 42a of the inspection illumination device 42 of the image inspection device 16 and a UV light source as the second light source unit 42b, in addition to foreign matter of a color different from that of the roughly ground meat as the object S1, it is also possible to detect foreign matter of a color similar to fat (for example, a white label). Also, a plurality of conveyance units 22, 24, 26 are provided as the conveyance device 12 below the image inspection device 16, and by ensuring the time from the detection of foreign matter or the like to the discharge at the discharge unit 14 on the downstream side of the conveyance unit 26, in addition to the specimen in which foreign matter is detected, it becomes possible to discharge the specimens before and after the detection of foreign matter together at the discharge unit 14.

[0058] In addition, in the present embodiment, an example in which foreign matter is mixed in the object S1 and discharged has been described. In order to find the target object from the object S1 and appropriately separate it, the conveying system 10 according to the present embodiment may be used.

[0059] The conveying system 10 according to the embodiment includes a discharge unit 14 that discharges the object S1, a conveying device 12, and an illumination device 42. The conveying device 12 is provided above the discharge unit 14, and includes a first conveying unit 22 that conveys the object S1, and a second conveying unit 24 that is provided below the first conveying unit 22 and is provided between the first conveying unit 22 and the discharge unit 14 and conveys the object S1 delivered from the first conveying unit 22. The illumination device 42 irradiates light on the object S1 conveyed to the first conveying unit 22. Therefore, it is possible to provide a highly versatile conveying system 10 that can apply light to the conveyed object S1 and can arrange the second conveying unit 24 below the first conveying unit 22.

[0060] In addition, the component of the conveying direction by the first conveying unit 22 and the component of the conveying direction by the second conveying unit 24 are opposite to each other. As in the present embodiment, since the component of the conveying direction by the first conveying unit 22 and the component of the conveying direction by the second conveying unit 24 are opposite to each other, the required horizontal space of the conveying device 12 can be reduced in size compared to the case where the first conveying unit and the second conveying unit are connected in the horizontal direction.

[0061] In addition, since the conveying device 12 can secure an appropriate path length from the position where the foreign matter is found by the image inspection device 16 to the discharge unit 14, the object S1 before and after the position including the foreign matter can be surely discharged from the discharge unit 14.

[0062] (Second Embodiment) The conveying system (foreign matter inspection device) 10 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. Note that members that are the same as or have the same functions as the members described in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals as much as possible, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0063] In this embodiment, the object S2 is assumed to be an object with a front and a back. Also, an object that is not broken due to some level differences is assumed. That is, the conveying system 10 according to this embodiment preferably has a front and a back on the object S2 and is used in a conveying process including a dropping process. Therefore, it is preferable that the object S2 is not broken by dropping. Alternatively, even if the object S2 is easily broken, it is preferable that the conveying units 132, 134, and 136 of the conveying device 118 to be described later can receive the object S2 with a surface having cushioning properties.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 3, the conveying system 10 according to this embodiment is provided between the upstream conveying conveyor 6 and the downstream conveying conveyor 8.

[0065] Here, with respect to FIG. 3, an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system is set. The X-axis direction is the conveying direction of the upstream conveyor 6 and the downstream conveyor 8. The Y-axis direction is the width direction (depth direction) of the upstream conveyor 6 and the downstream conveyor 8. The Z-axis direction is the vertical direction.

[0066] The conveying system 10 according to this embodiment includes a housing 112, an entrance portion 114 where the object S2 is transferred from the upstream conveying conveyor 6, a lighting device (surface light emitting portion) 116, a conveying device 118, and a discharge portion (exit portion) 120 that transfers the object S2 to the downstream conveying conveyor 8.

[0067] The conveying system 10 includes a housing 112, a lighting device 116 having a light source portion (first light source portion) that irradiates, for example, ultraviolet rays, an entrance portion 114 that receives an object conveyed from the upstream conveying conveyor 6 (previous process), a conveying device 118 that flows while irradiating the object with ultraviolet rays, and a discharge portion 120 that outputs the object S2 to the downstream conveying conveyor 8 (next process).

[0068] The housing 112 is formed, for example, in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped closed box shape. Therefore, the housing 112 covers the conveying device 118 (three conveying units 132, 134, and 136 to be described later).

[0069] The inlet portion 114 is preferably provided on the ceiling plate of the housing 112. The inlet portion 114 may also be preferably provided not on the ceiling plate of the housing 112 but on the upper part of the side plate. Alternatively, the inlet portion 114 may be preferably provided across the ceiling plate and the upper part of the side plate of the housing 112.

[0070] In this embodiment, the lighting device 116 is preferably provided as a surface light-emitting portion on the ceiling plate of the housing 112. And the lighting device 116 emits ultraviolet B toward the bottom plate of the housing 112.

[0071] The discharge portion 120 is preferably provided on the bottom plate of the housing 112. The discharge portion 120 may also be preferably provided not on the bottom plate of the housing 112 but on the lower part of the side plate. Alternatively, the discharge portion 120 may be preferably provided across the bottom plate and the lower part of the side plate of the housing 112.

[0072] The conveying device 118 is provided in the housing 112 between the inlet portion 114 and the discharge portion 120. In this embodiment, the conveying device 118 has a structure such that the object S2 falls a plurality of times.

[0073] The conveying device 118 may be formed of one part or may be formed of a plurality of physically independent parts. As shown in FIG. 4, the conveying device 118 has a structure, shape, and arrangement such that, in a top view, that is, when viewed from the lighting device 116, they do not overlap as much as possible. For this reason, ultraviolet B easily reaches the object S2 moving on the conveying device 118.

[0074] As an example, the conveying device 118 includes three conveying parts 132, 134, and 136 that are substantially Z-shaped in top view. The relationship between the first conveying part 132 and the second conveying part 134 is arranged in a V-shape that is offset from each other in top view. The relationship between the second conveying part 134 and the third conveying part 136 is arranged in a V-shape that is offset from each other in top view. And in the present embodiment, the relationship among the first conveying part 132, the second conveying part 134, and the third conveying part 136 is arranged in a Z-shape that is offset from each other in top view as described above.

[0075] One end 132a and the other end 132b of the first conveying part 132 are inclined. An inlet part 114 is arranged above one end 132a of the first conveying part 132. By continuously descending from one end 132a to the other end 132b of the first conveying part 132, the object S2 slides or rolls from one end 132a to the other end 132b of the first conveying part 132.

[0076] One end 134a and the other end 134b of the second conveying part 134 are inclined. The other end 132b of the first conveying part 132 is arranged above one end 134a of the second conveying part 134. By continuously descending from one end 134a to the other end 134b of the second conveying part 134, the object S2 slides or rolls from one end 134a to the other end 134b of the second conveying part 134.

[0077] One end 136a and the other end 136b of the third conveying part 136 are inclined. The other end 134b of the second conveying part 134 is arranged above one end 136a of the third conveying part 136. By continuously descending from one end 136a to the other end 136b of the third conveying part 136, the object S2 slides or rolls from one end 136a to the other end 136b of the third conveying part 136.

[0078] And a discharge part 120 is arranged below the other end 136b of the third conveying part 136.

[0079] Note that one end 132a of the first conveying unit 132, one end 134a of the second conveying unit 134, and one end 136a of the third conveying unit 136 are formed as stoppers for preventing the object S from falling off.

[0080] In addition, it is preferable that the edges 133a and 133b between one end 132a and the other end 132b of the first conveying unit 132 are formed as stoppers for preventing the object S2 from accidentally falling off the first conveying unit 132. It is preferable that the edges 135a and 135b between one end 134a and the other end 134b of the second conveying unit 134 are formed as stoppers for preventing the object S2 from accidentally falling off the second conveying unit 134. It is preferable that the edges 137a and 137b between one end 136a and the other end 136b of the third conveying unit 136 are formed as stoppers for preventing the object S2 from accidentally falling off the third conveying unit 136.

[0081] Since the conveying device 118 is formed in this way, in this embodiment, it is preferable that there is no discharge part 120 directly below the inlet part 114.

[0082] One component in the conveying direction of the first conveying unit 132 (+X-axis direction) and one component in the conveying direction of the second conveying unit 134 (-X-axis direction) are opposite to each other. For this reason, as in this embodiment, since one component in the conveying direction of the first conveying unit 132 (+X-axis direction) and one component in the conveying direction of the second conveying unit 134 (-X-axis direction) are opposite to each other, compared with the case where the first conveying unit and the second conveying unit are connected in the horizontal direction, the required horizontal space of the conveying device 118 can be made more space-saving.

[0083] Further, one component of the conveying direction by the second conveying unit 134 (-X-axis direction) and one component of the conveying direction by the third conveying unit 136 (+X-axis direction) are opposite to each other. For this reason, as in the present embodiment, further, since one component of the conveying direction by the second conveying unit 134 (-X-axis direction) and one component of the conveying direction by the third conveying unit 136 (+X-axis direction) are opposite to each other, compared with the case where the first conveying unit, the second conveying unit, and the third conveying unit are connected in the horizontal direction, the required space in the horizontal direction of the conveying device 118 can be made space-saving.

[0084] Note that the lighting device 116 is provided above the first conveying unit 132, the second conveying unit 134, and the third conveying unit 136 that are displaced from each other in a top view, and is formed as a surface light-emitting unit that irradiates ultraviolet rays. The lighting device 116 as the surface light-emitting unit is preferably provided directly above the first conveying unit 132, the second conveying unit 134, and the third conveying unit 136. For this reason, the lighting device 116 is arranged at a position where the light (ultraviolet rays) from the lighting device 116 can irradiate the object S2 passing through the first conveying unit 132 and the object S2 passing through the second conveying unit 134.

[0085] Hereinafter, an example of sterilizing the object 2 by irradiating the object S2 with ultraviolet rays B using the conveying system 10 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0086] The conveying system 10 causes the lighting device 116 to emit light (turn on) and continuously irradiates ultraviolet rays B downward from the lighting device 116.

[0087] When the object S2 is supplied from the upstream conveying conveyor 6 to the inlet portion 114, the object S2 drops near one end 132a of the first conveying unit 132. The object S2 moves along the first conveying unit 132 from one end 132a side toward the other end 132b while sliding or rolling. At this time, the object S2 on the first conveying unit 132 receives ultraviolet rays B from the lighting device 116.

[0088] Then, the object S2 drops near one end 134a of the second transport unit 134 through the other end 132b of the first transport unit 132. Therefore, the first transport unit 132 and the second transport unit 134 can transfer the object S2 via their respective ends (the other end 132b of the first transport unit 132 and one end 134a of the second transport unit 134). Even when the object S2 is transferred in this way, the object S2 receives ultraviolet B from the lighting device 116.

[0089] The object S2 moves along the second transport unit 134 from one end 134a side toward the other end 134b while sliding or rolling. At this time, in a top view, a part between one end 134a and the other end 134b of the second transport unit 134 overlaps with the first transport unit 132, but the other regions do not overlap with the first transport unit 132. Therefore, the object S2 on the second transport unit 134 receives ultraviolet B from the lighting device 116.

[0090] Then, the object S2 drops near one end 136a of the third transport unit 136 through the other end 134b of the second transport unit 134. Therefore, the second transport unit 134 and the third transport unit 136 can transfer the object S2 via their respective ends (the other end 134b of the second transport unit 134 and one end 136a of the third transport unit 136). Even when the object S2 is transferred in this way, the object S2 receives ultraviolet B from the lighting device 116.

[0091] The object S2 moves along the third transport unit 136 from one end 136a side toward the other end 136b while sliding or rolling. At this time, in a top view, a part between one end 136a and the other end 136b of the third transport unit 136 overlaps with the second transport unit 134, but the other regions do not overlap with the second transport unit 134. Therefore, the object S2 on the third transport unit 136 receives ultraviolet B from the lighting device 116.

[0092] Also, the ultraviolet B from the lighting device 116 is appropriately reflected by the inner wall of the housing 112. Therefore, the object S2 being transported by the transport units 132, 134, 136 is irradiated with ultraviolet B from various directions.

[0093] Therefore, the object S2 is sterilized by moving within the transport system 10 along the transport units 132, 134, and 136. At this time, the object S2 is irradiated with light (for example, ultraviolet ray B) from one direction (for example, directly above) with respect to the transport units 132, 134, and 136 that are arranged in a space-saving manner in the horizontal direction. For this reason, the object S2 can be irradiated with light (for example, ultraviolet ray B) for a longer period of time.

[0094] Further, in the present embodiment, when the object S2 is transferred from the first transport unit 132 to the second transport unit 134, it moves while turning over. For this reason, even if the object S2 moves from the upstream side to the downstream side while sliding on the first transport unit 132, it can be turned over when the object S2 is transferred from the first transport unit 132 to the second transport unit 134. For this reason, even the portion of the object S2 that was not irradiated with ultraviolet rays when it was on the first transport unit 132 can be irradiated with ultraviolet rays when the object S2 is transferred from the first transport unit 132 to the second transport unit 134.

[0095] Similarly, even the portion of the object S2 that was not irradiated with ultraviolet rays when it was on the second transport unit 134 can be irradiated with ultraviolet rays when the object S2 is transferred from the second transport unit 134 to the third transport unit 136.

[0096] Therefore, by using the transport system 10 according to the present embodiment, the object S2 can be appropriately irradiated with ultraviolet rays to sterilize the surface of the object S2.

[0097] In the present embodiment, an example in which the object S2 moves while sliding or rolling on the first transport unit 132, the second transport unit 134, and the third transport unit 136 has been described. For example, the first transport unit 132, the second transport unit 134, and the third transport unit 136 may move the object S2 as described above using a conveyor using power.

[0098] In the conveying system 10 according to this embodiment, an example in which the object S2 is gradually moved downward has been described. For example, by using a belt conveyor or the like that is operated by driving a motor or the like for the conveying units 132, 134, and 136, the conveying units 132, 134, and 136 may be arranged horizontally, and the object S2 may be moved horizontally. Also in this case, since the conveying units 132, 134, and 136 are displaced in a top view, when ultraviolet ray B is conveyed from the upstream side (the first conveying unit 132) to the downstream side (the third conveying unit 136), the object S2 is irradiated. In this case, in order to turn over the object S2, it is preferable to use a vibrating conveyor or the like as the conveying units 132, 134, and 136.

[0099] Therefore, the conveying system 10 according to the embodiment includes a discharging unit 120 that discharges the object S2, a conveying device 118, and a lighting device 116. The conveying device 118 includes a first conveying unit 132 that conveys the object S2, and a second conveying unit 134 that is provided between the first conveying unit 132 and the discharging unit 120 and conveys the object S2 delivered from the first conveying unit 132. The lighting device 116 irradiates light onto the object S2 conveyed to the first conveying unit 132. For this reason, it is possible to provide a highly versatile conveying system 10 that can apply light to the conveyed object S2.

[0100] The first conveying unit 132 is provided above the discharging unit 120. Also, the second conveying unit 134 is provided below the first conveying unit 132. When the object S2 is delivered from the first conveying unit 132 to the second conveying unit 134, it turns over. For this reason, when the object S2 is delivered from the first conveying unit 132 to the second conveying unit 134, even if a part of the object S2 on the first conveying unit 132 is not irradiated with light, when the object S2 is delivered from the first conveying unit 132 to the second conveying unit 134, light (for example, ultraviolet ray B) can be irradiated onto the portion of the object S2 that has not been irradiated with light.

[0101] Further, the component of the conveying direction by the first conveying unit 132 and the component of the conveying direction by the second conveying unit 134 are opposite to each other. As in the present embodiment, since the component of the conveying direction by the first conveying unit 132 and the component of the conveying direction by the second conveying unit 134 are opposite to each other, when the first conveying unit and the second conveying unit are connected in the horizontal direction, the required space of the conveying device 118 in the horizontal direction can be reduced compared to the case where they are connected in a straight line.

[0102] (Modification example) In the second embodiment described above, the conveying device 118 has been described as an example formed in a substantially Z shape in a top view. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, it is also preferable that the conveying device 118 is formed in a substantially spiral shape in a top view. The relationship between the first conveying unit 142 and the second conveying unit 144 is arranged in a V shape shifted from each other in a top view. The relationship between the second conveying unit 144 and the third conveying unit 146 is arranged in a V shape shifted from each other in a top view. The relationship between the third conveying unit 146 and the fourth conveying unit 148 is arranged in a V shape shifted from each other in a top view. And in this modification example, the relationship between the first conveying unit 142, the second conveying unit 144, the third conveying unit 146, and the fourth conveying unit 148 is arranged in a spiral shape shifted from each other as described above in a top view.

[0103] As an example, the conveying device 118 includes four conveying units 142, 144, 146, and 148 that are substantially spiral in a top view.

[0104] One end 142a and the other end 142b of the first conveying unit 142 are inclined. An inlet portion 114 is arranged above one end 142a of the first conveying unit 142. As the object S2 continuously descends from one end 142a to the other end 142b of the first conveying unit 142, the object S2 rolls from one end 142a to the other end 142b of the first conveying unit 142.

[0105] The second conveyor section 144 slopes between one end 144a and the other end 144b. Above one end 144a of the second conveyor section 144, the other end 142b of the first conveyor section 142 is arranged. By continuously descending from one end 144a to the other end 144b of the second conveyor section 144, the object S2 rolls from one end 144a to the other end 144b of the second conveyor section 144.

[0106] The third conveyor section 146 slopes between one end 146a and the other end 146b. Above one end 146a of the third conveyor section 146, the other end 144b of the second conveyor section 144 is arranged. By continuously descending from one end 146a to the other end 146b of the third conveyor section 146, the object S2 rolls from one end 146a to the other end 146b of the third conveyor section 146.

[0107] The fourth conveyor section 148 slopes between one end 148a and the other end 148b. Above one end 148a of the fourth conveyor section 148, the other end 146b of the third conveyor section 146 is arranged. By continuously descending from one end 148a to the other end 148b of the fourth conveyor section 148, the object S2 rolls from one end 148a to the other end 148b of the fourth conveyor section 148.

[0108] And below the other end 148b of the fourth conveyor section 148, a discharge section 120 is arranged.

[0109] Note that one end 142a of the first conveyor section 142, one end 144a of the second conveyor section 144, and one end 146a of the third conveyor section 146 are formed as stoppers for preventing the object S from falling off.

[0110] Also, it is preferable that the edges 143a and 143b between one end 142a and the other end 142b of the first conveyor section 142 are formed as stoppers for preventing the object S2 from falling off the first conveyor section 142.

[0111] The edges 145a and 145b between one end 144a and the other end 144b of the second transport unit 144 are preferably formed as stoppers that prevent the object S2 from falling off the second transport unit 144.

[0112] The edges 147a and 147b between one end 146a and the other end 146b of the third transport unit 146 are preferably formed as stoppers that prevent the object S2 from falling off the third transport unit 146.

[0113] The edges 149a and 149b between one end 148a and the other end 148b of the fourth transport unit 148 are preferably formed as stoppers that prevent the object S2 from falling off the fourth transport unit 148.

[0114] In this modification, since the transport device 118 is formed in this way, it is preferable that there is no discharge unit 120 directly below the inlet unit 114. Depending on the structure of the transport units 142, 144, 146, and 148, it is also preferable that the discharge unit 120 is arranged directly below the inlet unit 114.

[0115] In this modification, the transport device 118 is illustrated with an example in which the center of the spiral of the transport units 142, 144, 146, and 148 moves toward the center as the spiral goes downward. Conversely, the transport device 118 may be formed so that the center of the spiral of the transport units 142, 144, 146, and 148 moves away from the center as the spiral goes downward.

[0116] Also, similar to the transport units 132, 134, and 136 described in the second embodiment, the transport units 142, 144, 146, and 148 may be arranged horizontally to move the object S2 in the horizontal direction. Also in this case, since the transport units 142, 144, 146, and 148 are displaced in a top view, the object S2 is irradiated with ultraviolet B when it is transported from the upstream side (the first transport unit 142) to the downstream side (the fourth transport unit 148). In this case, in order to turn over the object S2, it is preferable to use a vibrating conveyor or the like as the transport units 142, 144, 146, and 148.

[0117] The transport system 10 according to this modification example includes a discharge unit 120 that discharges the object S2, a transport device 118, and a lighting device 116. The transport device 118 includes a first transport unit 142 that transports the object S2, and a second transport unit 144 that is provided between the first transport unit 142 and the discharge unit 120 and transports the object S2 delivered from the first transport unit 142. The lighting device 116 irradiates light onto the object S2 transported to the first transport unit 142. Therefore, it is possible to provide a highly versatile transport system 10 that can apply light to the transported object S2 and can arrange the second transport unit 144 below the first transport unit 142.

[0118] The first transport unit 142 is provided above the discharge unit 120. Also, the second transport unit 144 is provided below the first transport unit 142. When the object S2 is transferred from the first transport unit 142 to the second transport unit 144, it turns over. For this reason, when the object S2 is transferred from the first transport unit 142 to the second transport unit 144, even if a part of the object S2 on the first transport unit 142 is not irradiated with light, when it is transferred from the first transport unit 142 to the second transport unit 144, it is possible to irradiate the portion of the object S2 that has not been irradiated with light with light (for example, ultraviolet ray B).

[0119] Also, the component of the transport direction by the first transport unit 142 (+X-axis direction) and the component of the transport direction by the second transport unit 144 (-X-axis direction) are opposite to each other. As in this embodiment, since the component of the transport direction by the first transport unit 142 and the component of the transport direction by the second transport unit 144 are opposite to each other, compared to the case where the first transport unit and the second transport unit are connected in the horizontal direction, the required horizontal space of the transport device 118 can be made space-saving.

[0120] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0121] 6... upstream conveying conveyor, 8... downstream conveying conveyor, 10... conveying system, 12... conveying device, 14... discharge unit, 16... image inspection device, 22, 24, 26... conveying unit, 32... discharge conveyor, 42... lighting device, 42a, 42b... light source unit, 44... imaging unit, 46... control unit, 52, 54... camera, 54a... band-pass filter, 112... housing, 114... entrance portion, 116... lighting device, 118... conveying device, 120... discharge unit, 132... first conveying unit, 132a... one end, 132b... the other end, 133a, 133b... edges, 134... second conveying unit, 134a... one end, 134b... the other end, 135a, 135b... edges, 136... third conveying unit, 136a... one end, 136b... the other end, 137a, 137b... edges, S1, S2... objects.

Claims

1. A discharging unit that discharges an object; A conveying system comprising: a first conveying unit that conveys the object; and a second conveying unit that is provided between the first conveying unit and the discharging unit and conveys the object delivered from the first conveying unit. An illumination device that irradiates light onto the object conveyed to the first conveying unit; A conveying system comprising the above components.

2. The first conveying unit is provided upstream of the discharging unit, The second conveying unit is provided downstream of the first conveying unit. The conveying system according to Claim 1.

3. The component of the conveying direction by the first conveying unit and the component of the conveying direction by the second conveying unit are opposite to each other. The conveying system according to Claim 1 or Claim 2.

4. The illumination device includes: a first light source unit that irradiates light onto the object conveyed to the first conveying unit; and a second light source unit that irradiates light in a wavelength range different from the light from the first light source unit onto the object conveyed to the first conveying unit. An imaging unit that acquires a first image by the light using the first light source unit and a second image by the light using the second light source unit; A control unit that controls the first light source unit, the second light source unit, and the imaging unit, and determines the presence or absence of foreign matter in the object using the first image and the second image. The conveying system according to Claim 1 or Claim 2, comprising the above components.

5. The distance from the first conveying unit to the discharging unit is less than or equal to half of the conveying path from the first conveying unit through the second conveying unit to the discharging unit. The conveying system according to Claim 2.

6. The first conveying unit and the second conveying unit can transfer the object to each other through their ends. At least a part of the first conveying unit and the second conveying unit is displaced in a top view. The lighting device is arranged so as to be able to irradiate the object passing through the first conveying unit and the object passing through the second conveying unit with light from the lighting device. The conveying system according to claim 1 or claim 2.

7. The first conveying unit and the second conveying unit are provided in a V shape in a top view. The conveying system according to claim 6.

8. A third conveying unit is provided between the second conveying unit and the discharging unit for conveying the object; The second conveying unit and the third conveying unit can transfer the object to each other through their ends. At least a part of the first conveying unit, the second conveying unit, and the third conveying unit is displaced in a top view. The lighting device is arranged so as to be able to irradiate the object passing through the first conveying unit, the object passing through the second conveying unit, and in addition, the object passing through the third conveying unit with light from the lighting device. The conveying system according to claim 6.

9. The first conveying unit, the second conveying unit, and the third conveying unit are provided in a Z shape or a spiral shape in a top view. The conveying system according to claim 8.

10. A housing covering the first conveying unit and the second conveying unit is provided; The lighting device irradiates the object conveyed by the first conveying unit and the second conveying unit with ultraviolet rays. The conveying system according to claim 1 or claim 2.

Images