Inspection components and needle detectors

Abstract

To provide inspection components and needle detectors that can properly ensure operational checks before use, that is, enable proper traceability management. [Solution] The test piece 101 is used in pre-use operational checks of a metal detector to inspect whether or not unwanted metal is mixed into products before shipment. The test piece 101 includes a piece-shaped member PP, which is the object of inspection during the operational check, and an RF tag 120 on which electrical information is recorded. The RF tag 120 is integrally attached to the piece-shaped member PP so that it is subjected to inspection together with the piece-shaped member PP. The electrical information is information used to generate historical information for managing traceability of the operational check, which is generated by electrically reading it by the metal detector and linking it with the information obtained from the metal detector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a member for inspection and a needle detector.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in the inspection of whether unnecessary metal is mixed in a product before shipment, a needle detector has been used. In a needle detector, it is common to perform an operation check before its use. In such an operation check before use, for example, the test piece described in Patent Document 1 is used. Identification information for identifying the test piece is added to the test piece described in Patent Document 1. The identification information is defined by a combination of the presence or absence of cutouts or the like that transmit or do not transmit light.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] A combination of cutouts or the like that define the identification information may cause deterioration such that the presence or absence of cutouts or the like cannot be correctly identified when the test piece is repeatedly used. This makes it difficult to ensure the appropriateness of the operation check before use.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] An inspection component capable of solving the above problems is used in pre-use operational checks of a metal detector for inspecting whether or not unwanted metals are mixed in with the object to be inspected. The inspection component includes a sample that is the object to be inspected during the operational check, and a tag on which electrical information is recorded. The tag is integrally attached to the sample for inspection together with the sample, and the electrical information is information for generating historical information used for managing traceability of the operational check, which is generated by electrically reading the information obtained from the metal detector and linking it with the information obtained from the metal detector.

[0006] According to the above configuration, in functional testing using a sample as the object of inspection, the tag is subjected to inspection along with the sample. The electrical information recorded on the tag during inspection is electrically read by the metal detector. This electrical information is unlikely to degrade to the point where it becomes incorrectly identifiable even if the sample is used repeatedly. In other words, the electrical information linked to the inspection component via the tag is suitable for generating historical information used for traceability management. Therefore, it is possible to properly ensure functional testing, that is, to achieve proper traceability management.

[0007] In the above-described inspection member, the electrical information may include the serial information of the tag, and the history information may be configured to be generated by linking the serial information with the information obtained from the meter reader.

[0008] According to the above configuration, the traceability of the operation check of the meter reader can be managed by comparing the information read from the tag. For example, the information obtained from the meter reader may be configured to include at least one of the following: a timestamp recorded when the operation check was performed, the results of the operation check, and equipment information relating to the environment of the meter reader at the time the operation check was performed.

[0009] According to the above configuration, at least one of the timestamps related to the operational check, the results, and equipment information regarding the environment of the meter reader will be linked to the information on the tag. In other words, by using inspection components, the traceability management of operational checks can be easily and accurately managed.

[0010] In the above-described inspection member, the sample is a piece-shaped member comprising an inspection metal, a single tag is attached to the piece-shaped member, and the electrical information may include identification information that identifies the inspection metal.

[0011] According to the above configuration, even if the inspection component consists of piece-shaped components, it is possible to link electrical information with equipment information. This provides a system that excels at managing the traceability of operational verification for workers who work with inspection components consisting of piece-shaped components.

[0012] In the above-described inspection member, the sample is a bar-shaped member comprising an inspection metal, a single tag is attached to the bar-shaped member, and the electrical information may include identification information that identifies the inspection metal.

[0013] According to the above configuration, even if the inspection component consists of a bar-shaped component, it is possible to link electrical information with equipment information. This makes it possible to provide workers who use inspection components consisting of bar-shaped components with a system that excels at managing the traceability of operational verification.

[0014] In the above-described inspection member, the sample is a card-shaped member comprising an inspection metal, the card-shaped member is fitted with a single tag, and the electrical information may include identification information that identifies the inspection metal.

[0015] According to the above configuration, even if the inspection component consists of a card-shaped component, it is possible to link electrical information with auditory information. This makes it possible to provide a system that excels at managing the traceability of operational verification for workers who work with inspection components consisting of card-shaped components.

[0016] A metal detector capable of solving the above problems is for inspecting whether or not unwanted metal is mixed in with an object to be inspected. The metal detector includes a device body having an inspection area for inspecting the object to be inspected, a conveyor belt configured to transport the object to be inspected in at least in the forward direction so that the object to be inspected passes through the inspection area, at least one metal detection unit configured to detect the metal as the object to be inspected passes through as it is transported in the forward direction by the conveyor belt, at least one electrical information reading unit configured to read electrical information recorded on a tag as the tag transported together with the object to be inspected passes through, and an information processing unit that acquires and processes equipment information including the detection result of the metal detection unit and the result read by the electrical information reading unit, wherein the metal detection unit is located in the device body along the forward direction of the inspection area. The electrical information reading unit is provided integrally with the inspection area along a direction intersecting the forward direction, and is positioned to read the electrical information recorded on the tag as it passes through the inspection area. The electrical information reading unit is configured to read the electrical information recorded on the tag, which is integrally attached to the sample to be used for inspection along with the sample containing the inspection member that is the object of inspection used in the operational check before the use of the needle reader. The information processing unit is configured to include a process to generate history information used for managing traceability of the operational check by linking the electrical information read by the electrical information reading unit with the equipment information.

[0017] According to the above configuration, it is possible to generate history information used for traceability management by using electrical information associated via a tag to be inspected together with an inspection member. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately ensure operation confirmation, that is, to provide a needle detector excellent in traceability management.

Advantages of the Invention

[0018] According to the present invention, it is possible to appropriately ensure operation confirmation before use, that is, to realize appropriate management of traceability.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019] [Figure 1] It is a plan view when looking at the needle detector according to the first embodiment from above. [Figure 2] It is a diagram for explaining an aspect of operation confirmation before use in the needle detector of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] It is a perspective view of a test piece for the inspection member of FIG. 2. [Figure 4] It is a perspective view of a check bar for the inspection member of FIG. 2. [Figure 5] It is a perspective view of a test card for the inspection member of FIG. 2. [Figure 6] It is a flowchart showing the flow of a process for generating history information in the needle detector of FIG. 1. [Figure 7] It is a diagram for explaining an example of the content indicated by the history information. [Figure 8] It is a plan view when looking at the needle detector according to the second embodiment from above. [Figure 9] It is a plan view when looking at the needle detector according to the third embodiment from above. [[ID=,41]] [Figure 10] It is a schematic diagram for explaining a needle detector according to another embodiment.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0020] <The First Embodiment> The inspection member and needle detector according to the first embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. As shown in Figure 1, the metal detector 10 is an inspection device that checks whether or not unwanted metal is mixed into product 11 before it is shipped. Product 11 is, for example, a sewn product. Unwanted metal in product 11 is, for example, a broken needle. In the following description, the inspection of whether or not unwanted metal is mixed into product 11 may be simply referred to as "metal detection".

[0021] <Meter reading machine> The needle detector 10 comprises a device body 20, a conveyor belt 30, a detection head 40, an RFID antenna 50, at least one photoelectric sensor 60, and a processing device 70. The device body 20 is a rectangular parallelepiped with height in the front-to-back direction of the paper in Figure 1. The device body 20 is installed so as to be movable on the ground of an inspection space in a factory or the like on the back side of the paper in Figure 1 via wheels or the like. In the following description, directions expressed by terms such as "up" and "down" are defined with respect to the direction of gravity. The direction perpendicular to the "up-down direction" of the device body 20, and the up-down direction in Figure 1, is the "width direction" of the device body 20. The direction perpendicular to the "up-down direction" and the "width direction," and the left-to-right direction in Figure 1, is the "conveying direction" of the product 11 when inspecting the product 11. The conveying direction is the forward direction, which is the direction from right to left in Figure 1, or the return direction, which is the direction opposite to the forward direction. In the following description, the forward transport direction may be simply referred to as "forward direction," or the return transport direction may be simply referred to as "return direction." The main body of the device 20 is the base for assembling the components necessary to realize the various functions of the needle detector 10.

[0022] <Device body> The main body of the device 20 has two side sections 21 and 22 on both sides in the width direction. Both side sections 21 and 22 extend along the conveying direction. Side sections 21 and 22 are spaced apart from each other in the width direction. The area between side sections 21 and 22 in the width direction forms an inspection area 23 for inspecting the product 11. One of the two side sections 21 and 22, side section 22, has an operation input section 22a. The operation input section 22a is located on the upstream side in the forward direction of side section 22. The operation input section 22a is, for example, a liquid crystal display unit. The operation input section 22a allows input of starting and stopping the needle detector 10, the type of inspection and the sensitivity of the sensor, the rotation speed and rotation direction of the conveyor belt 30, etc., or displays the status of the needle detector 10.

[0023] <Conveyor belt> The conveyor belt 30 is assembled between the side portions 21 and 22 in the width direction. The conveyor belt 30 is an endless strip-shaped member having a predetermined thickness. The conveyor belt 30 is, for example, shorter than the distance between the ends of both side portions 21 and 22. The width of the conveyor belt 30 is approximately the same as the distance between the side portions 21 and 22 in the width direction. The conveyor belt 30 is stretched over a plurality of rollers assembled to the device body 20. The plurality of rollers include, for example, a drive roller and a driven roller. The drive roller rotates by the drive of a motor M provided inside the device body 20. The driven roller rotates by the rotational force transmitted from the drive roller. The conveyor belt 30 rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the plurality of rollers to convey the product 11 in the conveying direction. The surface of the conveyor belt 30 is a conveying surface 31 for conveying the product 11 in the conveying direction so that the product 11 passes through the inspection area 23. The conveying surface 31 extends along the conveying direction.

[0024] <Detection head> The detection head 40 is integrally assembled to the device body 20 via side portions 21 and 22. The detection head 40 has two parallel legs 40a at both ends and a main body portion 40b connecting the two legs 40a. The main body portion 40b extends along the width direction with vertical space relative to the conveyor belt 30, i.e., the conveyor surface 31. In other words, the detection head 40 is integrally provided with the device body 20 midway along the forward direction of the inspection area 23. The detection head 40 is provided so as to straddle the width direction of the inspection area 23 in a direction perpendicular to the forward direction. In this embodiment, the detection head 40 is an example of a metal detection unit.

[0025] The detection head 40 divides the inspection area 23 into multiple sections. The inspection area 23 has multiple sections A1, A2, A3, which are divided relative to the detection head 40. For example, the inspection area 23 has an inlet 23a at the upstream position in the forward direction. The inspection area 23 has an outlet 23b at the downstream position in the forward direction.

[0026] More specifically, area A1 is the upstream area of ​​the inspection area 23 in the forward direction relative to the detection head 40. In other words, when the product 11 is transported in the forward direction, area A1 is the area before the product 11 passes the detection head 40. Area A1 includes the entrance 23a. For example, area A1 is the area where the product 11 is located before needle detection is performed. In this embodiment, area A1 is an example of a first area.

[0027] Area A2 is the area within the inspection area 23 where the detection head 40 is located. In other words, when the product 11 is transported in the forward direction, area A2 is the area through which the product 11 passes the detection head 40. For example, area A2 is the area where needle detection is performed. In this embodiment, area A2 is an example of a second area.

[0028] Area A3 is the area downstream of the detection head 40 in the forward direction within the inspection area 23. In other words, when the product 11 is transported in the forward direction, area A3 is the area after the product 11 has passed the detection head 40. Area A3 includes the exit 23b. For example, area A3 is the area where the product 11 is located after needle detection has been performed. In this embodiment, area A3 is an example of a third area.

[0029] The detection head 40 contains a plurality of upper detection sensors 41 inside. The plurality of upper detection sensors 41 are arranged linearly along the width direction, which is the direction in which the main body 40b extends, and are provided continuously at equal intervals. The device body 20 contains a plurality of lower detection sensors 24 inside. The plurality of lower detection sensors 24 are arranged linearly along the width direction of the device body 20 and are provided continuously at equal intervals. Each upper detection sensor 41 is paired with one of the plurality of lower detection sensors 24. Each lower detection sensor 24 is mounted on the conveyor belt 30 on the side opposite to the main body 40b. The conveyor belt 30, more specifically the conveyor surface 31, is located between each pair of upper detection sensors 41 and lower detection sensors 24.

[0030] Each upper detection sensor 41 detects distortions in the magnetic field passing between each pair of upper detection sensors 41 and lower detection sensors 24 when, for example, a product 11 being transported by a conveyor belt 30 passes over it. This allows each upper detection sensor 41 to detect whether or not unwanted metal is mixed into the product 11. For example, the sensitivity of each upper detection sensor 41 and each lower detection sensor 24 is adjusted to detect unwanted metal but not metal fittings that are necessary for the product 11. The sensor sensitivity may also be adjusted to detect metals other than unwanted metal.

[0031] <RFIDアンテナ> The RFID antenna 50 is integrally mounted to the device body 20 via side portions 21 and 22 at a position corresponding to area A3. The RFID antenna 50 has two parallel legs 50a at both ends and a main body portion 50b connecting the two legs 50a. The main body portion 50b extends along the width direction with vertical space relative to the conveyor belt 30, i.e., the conveyor surface 31. In other words, the RFID antenna 50 is integrally mounted to the device body 20 on the downstream side in the forward direction relative to the detection head 40. The RFID antenna 50 is positioned so as to straddle the inspection area 23 in the width direction. The RFID antenna 50 is positioned so that the distance from the detection head 40 is less than the distance from the exit 23b of the inspection area 23. The distance from the detection head 40 is less than the distance from the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23. The downstream region A3a in the forward direction relative to the RFID antenna 50 has a length in the forward direction that is approximately the same as the length of region A1 in the forward direction. In this embodiment, the RFID antenna 50 is an example of an electrical information reading unit.

[0032] The RFID antenna 50 includes a radio wave transmitting unit 51 and an information reading unit 52 inside. The radio wave transmitting unit 51 emits radio waves of a specific frequency. The output strength, and more specifically the directivity, of the radio wave transmitting unit 51 is adjusted so that it emits radio waves targeting products 11 that pass through the RFID antenna 50. For example, the directivity of the radio waves is adjusted so that the radio waves reach the range of the internal space of the RFID antenna 50, which is part of area A3. In other words, the directivity of the radio waves emitted by the radio wave transmitting unit 51 is adjusted so that they do not reach products 11 that do not pass through the RFID antenna 50. The information reading unit 52 receives and reads the ID signal transmitted from the RF tag 12 (described later) in response to the radio waves emitted by the radio wave transmitting unit 51. As a result, the RFID antenna 50 detects the ID signal transmitted from the RF tag 12 (described later) in response to the radio waves emitted by the radio wave transmitting unit 51.

[0033] <RFタグ> Each product 11 that is to be inspected by the metal detector 10 has an RF tag 12. For example, the RF tag 12 is either directly attached to the product 11 itself or packaged together with the product 11. In other words, when transported by the conveyor belt 30, each product 11 is transported together with the RF tag 12. In this embodiment, the RF tag 12 is an example of a tag.

[0034] The RF tag 12 includes an antenna and an IC chip. The antenna generates power using radio waves emitted by the radio wave transmitter 51. The antenna is of a type that corresponds to the communication method between the RFID antenna 50 and the RF tag 12. For example, if the communication method is radio waves, the antenna can be a plate-shaped antenna. If the communication method is electromagnetic induction, the antenna can be a coil-shaped antenna. The IC chip uses the power generated by the antenna to output an ID signal indicating the electrical information stored inside to the outside via the antenna. The IC chip includes a memory circuit inside. The memory circuit stores electrical information related to the RF tag 12, including the IC chip. This electrical information becomes individual information about the product 11 having the RF tag 12. The individual information includes product information for identifying the product 11 having the RF tag 12. Product information includes, for example, the product name, color, size, and shipping destination of the product 11. Other individual information includes, for example, manufacturing information such as the factory and production line where the product 11 was manufactured, or inspection information related to inspections performed during the manufacturing process.

[0035] <Photoelectric sensor> The photoelectric sensor 60 includes a photoelectric sensor 61 and a photoelectric sensor 62. The photoelectric sensor 61 is a photoelectric sensor for the detection head, provided in conjunction with the detection head 40. The photoelectric sensor 61 is provided on the forward upstream side of the detection head 40. In other words, the detection head 40 is used in combination with the photoelectric sensor 61. The photoelectric sensor 62 is a photoelectric sensor for the RFID antenna, provided in conjunction with the RFID antenna 50. In other words, the RFID antenna 50 is used in combination with the photoelectric sensor 62. The photoelectric sensor 61 is, for example, a transmissive type sensor in which the light-emitting part f1a and the light-receiving part f1b are configured separately. In this case, the light-emitting part f1a and the light-receiving part f1b should be provided on different side parts 21 and 22 so that they face each other in the width direction. The same applies to the photoelectric sensor 62. For example, the light-emitting section f2a and the light-receiving section f2b may be provided on different side sections 21 and 22 so as to face each other in the width direction. The two photoelectric sensors 61 and 62 may be reflective type sensors in which the light-emitting section and the light-receiving section are integrated, or they may be replaced with proximity sensors or the like.

[0036] The photoelectric sensor 61 detects, for example, that a product 11 being transported by the conveyor belt 30 passes between the light-emitting unit f1a and the light-receiving unit f1b. This causes the photoelectric sensor 61 to detect that there is a product 11 that will pass forward to the detection head 40. This acts as a trigger to activate the detection head 40. In other words, the detection head 40 starts performing detection at each upper detection sensor 41, triggered by the photoelectric sensor 61 detecting the passage of the product 11. Similarly, the photoelectric sensor 62 detects, for example, that a product 11 being transported by the conveyor belt 30 passes between the light-emitting unit f2a and the light-receiving unit f2b. This causes the photoelectric sensor 62 to detect that there is a product 11 that will pass forward to the RFID antenna 50. This acts as a trigger to activate the RFID antenna 50. In other words, the RFID antenna 50, triggered by the photoelectric sensor 62 detecting the passage of product 11, starts transmitting radio waves from the radio wave transmitting unit 51 and starts reading the ID signal from the information reading unit 52.

[0037] <Processing device> The processing unit 70 is located, for example, outside the needle reader 10. The processing unit 70 may also be integrated with the needle reader 10. The processing unit 70 includes a control controller 71 and a motor controller 72. The control controller 71 is a processing circuit consisting of a microcomputer and includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 71a. Various processes related to the operation of the needle reader 10 are functional parts realized by the CPU 71a executing a control program. These various processes include, for example, processes related to starting and stopping the needle reader 10, the type of inspection, the sensitivity of the sensor, the rotation speed and direction of the conveyor belt 30, and the inspection results. The control controller 71 includes a memory 71b for storing the control program. The memory 71b includes a computer-readable medium such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory). However, while various processes are implemented by software, at least some of the processes may be implemented by hardware circuits such as logic circuits. Similarly, the motor controller 72 is a processing circuit consisting of a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller).

[0038] The control controller 71 is electrically connected, for example, via wires, to the operation input unit 22a, each upper detection sensor 41, the radio wave transmission unit 51, the information reading unit 52, and the photoelectric sensors 60 (61, 62). The control controller 71 performs various processes based on signals input from the operation input unit 22a, each upper detection sensor 41, the radio wave transmission unit 51, the information reading unit 52, and the photoelectric sensors 60 (61, 62). For example, the control controller 71 includes the process of instructing the motor controller 72 to rotate the conveyor belt 30 in the forward or reverse direction at a predetermined rotational speed. Based on the instruction from the control controller 71, the motor controller 72 controls the drive of the motor M provided inside the main body 20 of the device. As a result, the motor controller 72 rotates the conveyor belt 30 in the forward or reverse direction at a predetermined rotational speed.

[0039] When the control controller 71 receives a signal related to the input result of the operation input unit 22a, it executes various processes based on that signal. For example, when a signal indicating the start of the meter reader 10 is input, the control controller 71 starts the meter reader 10 and controls the display content of the operation input unit 22a so that a display indicating this is shown.

[0040] When the control controller 71 receives a signal related to the detection result of the photoelectric sensor 61, it determines whether or not to operate the detection head 40 based on the detection result. If it decides to operate the detection head 40, the control controller 71 operates the detection head 40 by supplying power to each upper detection sensor 41, thereby inputting the detection result of each upper detection sensor 41. Based on the detection result of each upper detection sensor 41, the control controller 71 determines whether or not unwanted metal is mixed into the product 11. If it does not determine that unwanted metal is mixed into the product 11, the control controller 71 instructs the motor controller 72 to rotate the conveyor belt 30 in the forward direction at a predetermined rotational speed. On the other hand, if it determines that unwanted metal is mixed into the product 11, the control controller 71 instructs the motor controller 72 to rotate the conveyor belt 30 in the reverse direction at a predetermined rotational speed. The control controller 71 stops supplying power to each upper detection sensor 41 if, after operating the detection head 40, a predetermined period of time has passed without a decision being made to operate the detection head 40. In other words, the control controller 71 stops the detection head 40.

[0041] When the control controller 71 receives a signal related to the detection result of the photoelectric sensor 62, it determines whether or not to operate the RFID antenna 50 based on the signal. If it decides to operate the RFID antenna 50, the control controller 71 operates the RFID antenna 50 by supplying power to the radio wave transmitter 51 and the information reading unit 52, thereby inputting the ID signal reading result from the information reading unit 52. As a result, the control controller 71 executes a process to generate individual management information based on the reading result from the information reading unit 52. The process to generate individual management information is a process to associate the detection results of each upper detection sensor 41 that were performed immediately before with the individual information identified from the ID signal. More specifically, the control controller 71 includes a process to store the generated individual management information in memory 71b. The control controller 71 also includes a process to associate the detection environment of each upper detection sensor 41 that were performed immediately before with the individual management information. For example, the detection environment includes the type of inspection, the sensitivity of the sensor, and the rotation speed of the conveyor belt 30. The control controller 71 stops supplying power to the radio wave transmitting unit 51 and the information reading unit 52 if, after activating the RFID antenna 50, a predetermined period of time has passed without the control controller deciding to activate the RFID antenna 50. In other words, the control controller 71 shuts down the RFID antenna 50. For example, the control controller 71 determines that the RF tag 12 is not detected if, after activating the RFID antenna 50, a predetermined period of time has passed without reading an ID signal and without the control controller deciding to activate the RFID antenna 50.

[0042] The control controller 71 controls the display content of the monitor 80 so that it displays information that can be confirmed in the memory 71b. The monitor 80 is, for example, an LCD display unit. The control controller 71 transmits the individual management information stored in the memory 71b to the server 90 via the network. In this case, the control controller 71 can also transmit the individual management information in response to a request from the server 90. The server 90 may be, for example, a stationary server or a cloud server virtually built on the network.

[0043] <Procedure for inspection using a metal detector> As shown in Figure 1, in the needle detector 10, which is equipped to perform needle detection, the conveyor belt 30 rotates in the forward direction. Products 11 are successively placed on the conveyor surface 31 of the conveyor belt 30, which is rotating in the forward direction, near the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23, along with the RF tags 12. Subsequently, as the products 11 are conveyed in the forward direction through area A1, their passage is detected by the photoelectric sensor 61. As a result, the detection head 40 is activated, and needle detection is performed on the product 11 as it passes through area A2, or more specifically, through the detection head 40, in the forward direction.

[0044] Next, if it is determined that no unwanted metals are present, the product 11 passes through the detection head 40 and is transported forward through area A3, and its passage is detected by the photoelectric sensor 62. As a result, the RFID antenna 50 is activated, and the ID signal is read as the product 11 passes forward through area A3, or more specifically, through the RFID antenna 50. In this case, the transport of the product 11 to area A3 indicates, as demonstrated by the operation of the metal detector 10, that the product 11 does not contain any unwanted metals.

[0045] Subsequently, the product 11 is transported in the forward direction through area A3, and near the exit 23b of the inspection area 23, it detaches from the transport surface 31 of the forward-rotating transport belt 30 along with the RF tag 12. This completes the inspection of the product 11 by the needle detector 10, and the inspection results are managed by the processing unit 70 as individual information for management purposes, along with individual information. If the inspection result is that the RF tag 12 is not detected, this fact is also managed by the processing unit 70.

[0046] On the other hand, if it is determined that unwanted metal is present, the conveyor belt 30 rotates in the return direction. The product 11 is returned from area A2 to area A1 along with the RF tag 12 so that it does not pass through the detection head 40 and is transported to area A3. This prevents the product 11 from being transported to area A3 and returns it to area A1, indicating through the movement of the metal detector 10 that unwanted metal is present in the product 11. In this case, a re-inspection of the product 11 is performed by the metal detector 10.

[0047] <Checking functionality before use> The meter reader 10 is required to undergo an operational check before use. The operational check is performed to confirm whether or not the detection head 40 can detect metal. The operational check must be performed periodically. In the operational check, if metal can be detected between each pair of upper detection sensors 41 and lower detection sensors 24, then the result indicates that there is no abnormality. In other words, the meter reader 10 is configured to perform meter readings only if the operational check is performed periodically and the result indicates that there is no abnormality. To put it another way, the meter reader 10 is configured not to perform meter readings if the operational check is not performed periodically or if the result indicates an abnormality.

[0048] As shown in Figure 2, in the needle detector 10 that performs the operational check, instead of inspecting the product 11, the inspection member 100 for operational check is inspected. The inspection member 100 is placed on the conveying surface 31 of the conveying belt 30 while it is stopped rotating. In this embodiment, the inspection member 100 used for operational check is one of the test piece 101, check bar 102, and test card 103.

[0049] <Inspection components> As shown in Figure 3, the test piece 101 is shaped like a rectangular parallelepiped. For example, when viewed from above, the test piece 101 has a square shape. The test piece 101 is composed of a piece-shaped member PP made of a non-magnetic material such as resin, and a single inspection metal S made of a metal such as iron. The inspection metal S is spherical or disc-shaped. The inspection metal S is provided on the surface opposite to the transport surface 31 when the test piece 101 is placed on the transport surface 31, i.e., on the upper surface PPa of the piece-shaped member PP. The inspection metal S is integrally attached, for example, by being embedded in the upper surface PPa, or by being attached via a non-magnetic material such as an adhesive. In this embodiment, the piece-shaped member PP is an example of a sample.

[0050] As shown in Figure 4, the check bar 102 is shaped like a rectangular parallelepiped. For example, when viewed from above, the check bar 102 has a rectangular shape. The check bar 102 is composed of a bar-shaped member BP made of a non-magnetic material such as resin, and a granular or liquid inspection metal S. The granular or liquid inspection metal S is applied linearly along the direction in which the bar-shaped member BP extends. The granular or liquid inspection metal S is integrally attached by being applied to the surface opposite to the conveying surface 31, i.e., the upper surface BPa of the bar-shaped member BP, when the check bar 102 is placed on the conveying surface 31. In this embodiment, the bar-shaped member BP is an example of a sample.

[0051] As shown in Figure 5, the test card 103 is flat. The test card 103 has a rectangular shape when viewed from above, for example. The test card 103 is composed of a card-shaped member CP made of a non-magnetic material such as resin and a single inspection metal S. The inspection metal S is sealed inside the card-shaped member CP. The test card 103 can be used by being placed on the transport surface 31 alone, or by being placed on the transport surface 31 via a test stand 104, which is a jig. The test stand 104 is cup-shaped. The test stand 104 has a plurality of slits 104a with depths perpendicular to the height direction. The plurality of slits 104a are provided at equal intervals along the height direction. The height of the plurality of slits 104a from the transport surface 31 increases by a constant amount starting from the slit 104a closest to the transport surface 31. The test card 103 is held at the height position where the slit 104a is provided by being inserted into one of the slits 104a. In other words, when the test card 103 and the test stand 104 are used together, it is possible to verify the operation at any height position relative to the transport surface 31. In this embodiment, the card-shaped member CP is an example of a sample.

[0052] For example, multiple types of inspection metal S are available, differing in material and diameter. In other words, for the test piece 101, multiple types of inspection metal S are available, differing in material and diameter, for the piece-shaped member PP. For the check bar 102, multiple types of granular or liquid inspection metal S are available, differing in material, for the bar-shaped member BP. For the test card 103, multiple types of inspection metal S are available, differing in material and diameter, for the card-shaped member CP.

[0053] The test piece 101, check bar 102, and test card 103 are equipped with RF tags 120. In the piece-shaped member PP, the RF tag 120 is integrally attached to the upper surface PPa in the center when viewed from above. In the bar-shaped member BP, the RF tag 120 is integrally attached to the upper surface BPa in the center when viewed from above. In the card-shaped member CP, the RF tag 120 is integrally attached to the upper surface CPa in the center when viewed from above. Each upper surface PPa, BPa, and CPa is the surface that faces the information reading unit 52 in the vertical direction when passing through the RFID antenna 50. In other words, the RF tag 120 faces the information reading unit 52 in the vertical direction when passing through the RFID antenna 50. As a result, the RF tag 120 comes closest to the information reading unit 52 when passing through the RFID antenna 50. The RF tag 120 is attached to each upper surface PPa, BPa, and CPa, for example, via a non-magnetic material such as an adhesive. The RF tag 120 can also be integrally molded onto each of the upper surfaces PPa, BPa, and CPa. In this embodiment, the RF tag 120 is an example of a tag.

[0054] The RF tag 120 has the same configuration as the RF tag 12, except that the content of the electrical information stored internally is different. For example, the electrical information stored in the memory circuit of the RF tag 120 is serial information relating to the test piece 101 to which the RF tag 120 is attached. The serial information relating to the test piece 101 is unique information that differs in content from the individual information stored in the memory circuit of the RF tag 12. The serial information is information relating to the material and diameter of the inspection metal S and is linked to identification information that identifies the inspection metal S. In addition, the serial information is information relating to the test piece 101, check bar 102, and test card 103 and is linked to identification information that identifies the inspection component 100.

[0055] <Procedure for verifying operation> After starting the meter reader 10, the operator sets the state for performing an operational check by controlling the display content of the operation input unit 22a. When setting the state for performing an operational check, the control controller 71 controls the display content of the operation input unit 22a so that an indication related to the operational check is displayed. The state for performing an operational check includes a state for performing an operational check using the test piece 101, a state for performing an operational check using the check bar 102, and a state for performing an operational check using the test card 103.

[0056] As shown in Figure 2, for example, when verifying operation using test piece 101, the control controller 71 sets the system to a state for verifying operation using test piece 101. The control controller 71 controls the motor controller 72, detection head 40, RFID antenna 50, etc., to bring the system into a state for verifying operation using test piece 101.

[0057] More specifically, the test piece 101 is placed on the conveying surface 31 of the conveying belt 30 together with the RF tag 120 so that it is in its initial position. The initial position is, for example, a position determined by a positioning jig, and is near the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23 and adjacent to the side section 22. After the test piece 101 has been placed in its initial position, the conveying belt 30 rotates in the forward direction through an operation on the operation input unit 22a by the operator. Subsequently, as the test piece 101 is conveyed in the forward direction through area A1, its passage is detected by the photoelectric sensor 61. As a result, the detection head 40 is activated, and the inspection metal S is detected as the test piece 101 passes through area A2, or more specifically, through the detection head 40, in the forward direction.

[0058] Next, regardless of whether the inspection metal S is detected or not, the test piece 101 is transported forward through area A3 by the detection head 40, and its passage is detected by the photoelectric sensor 62. This activates the RFID antenna 50, and the ID signal is read as the test piece 101 passes forward through area A3, or more specifically, through the RFID antenna 50. After that, the transport belt 30 rotates in the reverse direction. The test piece 101, along with the RF tag 120, is returned to its initial position.

[0059] Next, the test piece 101 is placed on the transport surface 31 of the transport belt 30 together with the RF tag 120 so that it is in the second position. The second position is a position identified, for example, by a positioning jig, and is near the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23, and is a predetermined distance from the side portion 22 relative to the initial position. The predetermined distance is set considering the distance between each pair of upper detection sensors 41 and lower detection sensors 24, and the sensitivity of the sensors. After the test piece 101 is placed in the second position, the test piece 101 is transported in the forward and reverse directions through operation of the operation input unit 22a by the operator. Subsequently, each time the test piece 101 is shifted to the third position, the fourth position, and so on, away from the side portion 22, the transport in the forward and reverse directions is repeated.

[0060] The control controller 71 receives, for each position of the test piece 101, the detection result of the inspection metal S by the detection head 40 and the reading result of the ID signal by the information reading unit 52 each time the test piece 101 is transported in the forward and reverse directions.

[0061] As a result, the control controller 71 generates history information by linking the ID signal, i.e., serial information which is the reading result of the information reading unit 52, with the equipment information which is information obtained from the needle detector 10. The equipment information includes a timestamp recorded when operation is confirmed, the detection result of the metal S for inspection by the detection head 40, and setting information regarding the environment of the needle detector 10. The setting information regarding the environment of the needle detector 10 includes the sensitivity of the sensor and the rotation speed of the conveyor belt 30. In this embodiment, the control controller 71, i.e., the processing unit 70, is an example of an information processing unit.

[0062] The procedure for verifying operation using the check bar 102 is substantially the same as that for verifying operation using the test piece 101, except for the way the check bar 102 is installed, so a detailed explanation is omitted. In other words, the initial position of the check bar 102 is, for example, near the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23, and between the two side parts 21 and 22, positioned so as to straddle the width of the inspection area 23 in a direction intersecting the forward direction. Similarly, the procedure for verifying operation using the test card 103 is substantially the same as that for verifying operation using the test piece 101, except for the possibility of using the test stand 104, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0063] <Processing related to the generation of historical information> In the process of generating history information, the control controller 71, while in a state where operation verification is performed, detects an operation by an operator and rotates the conveyor belt 30 in the forward and reverse directions.

[0064] As shown in Figure 6, when the control controller 71 receives the detection result of the metal S to be inspected from the detection head 40 (step S10), it refers to the timestamp along with the detection result of the metal S to be inspected, and also refers to the setting information (step S12).

[0065] Next, when the control controller 71 receives the ID signal from the information reading unit 52 (step S14), it verifies the identification information associated with the serial information based on the ID signal stored in the memory 71b (step S16).

[0066] Next, the control controller 71 generates history information (step S18) by associating the ID signal input in step S14 with the identification information verified in step 16, the detection result of the inspection metal S input in step S10, and the setting information referenced in step S12. In step S18, the control controller 71 stores the generated history information in memory 71b. Note that in the case of operation verification using the test piece 101 or test card 103, the detection result of the inspection metal S in the history information may be the result for each position of the test piece 101, or it may be a result that combines the results for all positions. The control controller 71 may also transmit the generated history information to the server 90 via the network.

[0067] As shown in Figure 7, the history information is stored as a single piece of information that combines the serial information with the material and diameter of the inspection member 100 and the inspection metal S, a timestamp, the detection result of the inspection metal S, and setting information. The history information stored in memory 71b is managed so that the operator can check its contents by outputting it to the monitor 80 under the control of the operation input unit 22a. In addition, the history information transmitted to the server 90 may be managed so that it can be retrieved under the control of the operation input unit 22a by the operator.

[0068] After processing in step S18, the control controller 71 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the operation check (step S20). In step S20, the control controller 71 determines that there is no abnormality in the operation check if the inspection metal S is detected between either the upper detection sensor 41 or the lower detection sensor 24 of each pair. On the other hand, the control controller 71 determines that there is an abnormality in the operation check if the inspection metal S is not detected by either the upper detection sensor 41 or the lower detection sensor 24 of each pair.

[0069] Next, if the control controller 71 determines that there are no abnormalities in the operation check (step S20: YES), it completes the operation check in order to move the meter reader 10 into a state where meter reading can be performed.

[0070] On the other hand, if the control controller 71 determines that there is an abnormality during the operational check (step S20: NO), it will leave the operational check incomplete so as not to transition the meter reader 10 to a state where meter reading can be performed. In this case, the meter reader 10 will need to perform the operational check again.

[0071] <Operation of this embodiment> According to this embodiment, in operational verification using the inspection component 100 as the object of inspection, the RF tag 120 is subjected to inspection together with the inspection component 100. The electrical information recorded on the RF tag 120 during inspection is electrically read by the meter reader 10, i.e., the RFID antenna 50. This electrical information is unlikely to deteriorate to the point where the serial information can no longer be correctly identified even if the inspection component 100 is used repeatedly. In other words, the serial information linked to the inspection component 100 via the RF tag 120 is suitable for generating historical information used for traceability management.

[0072] <Effects of the Embodiment> (1-1) By generating historical information used for traceability management from the serial information linked to the inspection component 100 via the RF tag 120, it is possible to properly ensure operational verification, that is, to achieve proper traceability management. Therefore, a needle detector 10 that is adept at traceability management can be provided.

[0073] (1-2) The history information is generated by linking the serial information obtained from the RF tag 120 with the information obtained from the meter reader 10. This allows for the management of operational traceability by comparing the information read from the RF tag 120 with the information obtained from the meter reader 10.

[0074] (1-3) The information obtained from the meter detector 10 includes a timestamp recorded when the operation check is performed, the detection result of the inspection metal S, and setting information regarding the environment of the meter detector 10. This allows the timestamp recorded when the operation check is performed, the detection result of the inspection metal S, and the setting information regarding the environment of the meter detector 10 to be linked with the serial information. In other words, by using the inspection component 100, the traceability management of the operation check can be made easy and accurate.

[0075] (1-4) Even if the inspection component 100 is a test piece 101, the serial information and equipment information can be linked. This provides a system that excels at managing the traceability of operational verification for workers using the test piece 101.

[0076] (1-5) Even if the inspection component 100 is a check bar 102, the serial information and equipment information can be linked. This provides workers using the check bar 102 with a system that excels at managing the traceability of operational checks.

[0077] (1-6) Even if the test component 100 is a test card 103, the serial information and device information can be linked. This provides a system that is adept at managing the traceability of operational verification for workers using the test card 103.

[0078] (1-7) Regarding operational verification, the operator will no longer be required to perform any tasks other than controlling the display content of the operation input unit 22a and setting up the test piece 101, check bar 102, and test card 103. In other words, the operator's workload is reduced. This leads to a reduction in operator intervention in the generation of history information. This makes it possible to standardize the management of history information, i.e., the traceability of operational verification. Therefore, the reliability of the management of operational verification traceability can be improved.

[0079] <Second Embodiment> The second embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment, with reference to the drawings. For the sake of clarity, components identical to those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0080] As shown in Figure 8, the RFID antenna 50 according to this embodiment is integrally assembled to the device body 20 via both side portions 21 and 22 at a position corresponding to area A1. In other words, the RFID antenna 50 is integrally provided with respect to the device body 20 on the upstream side in the forward direction relative to the detection head 40. Accordingly, the photoelectric sensor 62 according to this embodiment is provided on the upstream side in the forward direction relative to the detection head 40 and the photoelectric sensor 61. The RFID antenna 50 is provided at a position in area A1 where the distance to the detection head 40 is smaller than the distance to the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23. When the RFID antenna 50 is assembled at a position corresponding to area A1, the distance to the detection head 40 is smaller than the distance to the exit 23b of the inspection area 23. The upstream area A1a in the forward direction relative to the RFID antenna 50 has a length along the forward direction that is approximately the same as the length along the forward direction of area A3. For example, the directivity of the radio waves emitted by the radio wave transmitting unit 51 of the RFID antenna 50 is adjusted to emit within the internal space of the RFID antenna 50, which is a part of area A1.

[0081] The control controller 71 in this embodiment executes a process to generate individual management information based on the reading results of the information reading unit 52. The process to generate individual management information is a process to associate the detection results and detection environment of each upper detection sensor 41, which are performed immediately afterward, with the individual information identified from the ID signal.

[0082] <Procedure for inspection using a metal detector> As shown in Figure 8, near the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23, the products 11, along with the RF tags 12, are successively placed on the conveying surface 31 of the conveying belt 30 which is rotating in the forward direction. As the products are conveyed in the forward direction through area A1, their passage is detected by the photoelectric sensor 62. This causes the RFID antenna 50 to activate, and as the product 11 passes the RFID antenna 50 in the forward direction, its ID signal is read.

[0083] Next, the product 11, whose ID signal has been read, passes through the RFID antenna 50 and is transported in the forward direction through area A1, and its passage is detected by the photoelectric sensor 61. As a result, the detection head 40 is activated, and as the product 11 passes through the detection head 40 in the forward direction, a needle reading is performed.

[0084] Next, if it is determined that no unwanted metals are present, the product 11 is transported in the forward direction through area A3, and together with the RF tag 12, it detaches from the transport surface 31 of the forward-rotating transport belt 30 near the exit 23b of the inspection area 23. This completes the inspection of the product 11 by the metal detector 10.

[0085] On the other hand, if it is determined that unwanted metal is present, the product 11 is returned from area A2 to area A1 along with the RF tag 12, and a re-inspection of the product 11 is performed by the metal detector 10. For example, when the product 11 is returned from area A2 to area A1 along with the RF tag 12, the processing unit 70 may link the result of determining that unwanted metal is present to the individual information identified from the read ID signal. In addition, when the product 11 is returned from area A2 to area A1 along with the RF tag 12, the processing unit 70 may also return the transport belt 30 to a range where the RF ID antenna 50 can detect the RF tag 12. When the processing unit 70 determines that the same ID signal has been read consecutively by the RFID antenna 50, it may delete the information related to the individual information identified from the ID signal in preparation for a re-inspection. In these cases, the predetermined time between activating the RFID antenna 50 and stopping the power supply to the radio wave transmitter 51 and the information reader 52 should be set considering that the product 11 will be returned from area A2 to area A1 along with the RF tag 12.

[0086] <Procedure for verifying operation> For example, after the test piece 101 has been placed in its initial position, the conveyor belt 30 rotates in the forward direction through an operation on the operation input unit 22a by the operator. Subsequently, as the test piece 101 is conveyed in the forward direction through area A1, its passage is detected by the photoelectric sensor 62. This activates the RFID antenna 50, and as the test piece 101 passes the RFID antenna 50 in the forward direction, its ID signal is read.

[0087] Next, the test piece 101, whose ID signal has been read, passes through the RFID antenna 50 and is transported in the forward direction through area A1, and its passage is detected by the photoelectric sensor 61. As a result, the detection head 40 is activated, and the inspection metal S is detected as the test piece 101 passes through the detection head 40 in the forward direction. After that, the transport belt 30 rotates in the reverse direction. The test piece 101 is returned to its initial position together with the RF tag 120. Furthermore, each time the position of the test piece 101 is shifted away from the side portion 22 relative to its initial position, the transport in the forward and reverse directions is repeated. In this case, in the processing related to the generation of history information, the control controller 71 reverses the order of the processing of steps S10 and S12 and the processing of steps S14 and S16. Note that the flow of operation verification using the check bar 102 is substantially the same as the operation verification using the test piece 101, except for the way the check bar 102 is installed, so a detailed explanation is omitted. Furthermore, the procedure for verifying operation using test card 103 is essentially the same as that for verifying operation using test piece 101, except that test stand 104 may be used, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0088] According to the second embodiment described above, the same actions and effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained. <Third Embodiment> The third embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment, with reference to the drawings. For the sake of clarity, components identical to those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0089] As shown in Figure 9, this embodiment has a configuration that adds the configuration of the second embodiment to the configuration of the first embodiment. More specifically, the RFID antenna 50 according to this embodiment includes a first RFID antenna 53 and a second RFID antenna 54. The first RFID antenna 53 is configured in the same way as the RFID antenna 50 of the second embodiment. The second RFID antenna 54 is configured in the same way as the RFID antenna 50 of the first embodiment. In this case, the upstream area A1a in the forward direction relative to the first RFID antenna 53 and the downstream area A3a in the forward direction relative to the second RFID antenna 54 have substantially the same length along the forward direction. In this embodiment, the first RFID antenna 53 is an example of a first individual information detection unit, and the second RFID antenna 54 is an example of a second individual information detection unit.

[0090] The photoelectric sensor 62 according to this embodiment includes a first photoelectric sensor 63 and a second photoelectric sensor 64. The first photoelectric sensor 63 is a photoelectric sensor for the first RFID antenna, provided in correspondence with the first RFID antenna 53. The second photoelectric sensor 64 is a photoelectric sensor for the second RFID antenna, provided in correspondence with the second RFID antenna 54.

[0091] The control controller 71 in this embodiment executes a process to generate individual management information based on the reading results of the information reading units 52 of both RFID antennas 53 and 54. The process to generate individual management information is a process to associate the detection results and detection environment of each upper detection sensor 41 with the individual information identified from the ID signal.

[0092] <Procedure for inspection using a metal detector> As shown in Figure 9, near the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23, the products 11, along with the RF tags 12, are successively placed on the conveying surface 31 of the conveying belt 30 which is rotating in the forward direction. As the products are conveyed in the forward direction through area A1, their passage is detected by the photoelectric sensor 63. This activates the first RFID antenna 53, and as the product 11 passes the first RFID antenna 53 in the forward direction, its ID signal is read.

[0093] Next, the product 11, whose ID signal has been read, passes through the first RFID antenna 53 and is transported in the forward direction through area A1, and its passage is detected by the photoelectric sensor 61. As a result, the detection head 40 is activated, and as the product 11 passes through the detection head 40 in the forward direction, a needle reading is performed.

[0094] Next, if it is determined that no unwanted metals are present, the product 11 passes through the detection head 40 and is transported forward through area A3, and its passage is detected by the photoelectric sensor 64. This activates the second RFID antenna 54, and as the product 11 passes through the second RFID antenna 54 in the forward direction, its ID signal is read. Subsequently, as the product 11 is transported forward through area A3, it detaches from the transport surface 31 of the forward-rotating transport belt 30 along with the RF tag 12 near the exit 23b of the inspection area 23. This completes the inspection of the product 11 by the metal detector 10.

[0095] On the other hand, if it is determined that unwanted metals are present, the product 11 is returned from area A2 to area A1 along with the RF tag 12, and a re-inspection of the product 11 is performed by the metal detector 10. For example, when the product 11 is returned from area A2 to area A1 along with the RF tag 12, the processing unit 70 can detect an ID signal that is detected by the first RFID antenna 53 and not detected by the second RFID antenna 54. In this case, the processing unit 70 may associate the result that it is determined that unwanted metals are present with the individual information identified from the detected ID signal. The processing unit 70 may also prepare for re-inspection by deleting information related to the individual information identified from the identified ID signal.

[0096] <Procedure for verifying operation> For example, after the test piece 101 has been placed in its initial position, the conveyor belt 30 rotates in the forward direction through an operation on the operation input unit 22a by the operator. Subsequently, as the test piece 101 is conveyed in the forward direction through area A1, its passage is detected by the photoelectric sensor 63. This activates the first RFID antenna 53, and as the test piece 101 passes the first RFID antenna 53 in the forward direction, its ID signal is read.

[0097] Next, the test piece 101, whose ID signal has been read, passes through the first RFID antenna 53 and is transported in the forward direction through area A1, and its passage is detected by the photoelectric sensor 61. As a result, the detection head 40 is activated, and the inspection metal S is detected as the test piece 101 passes through the detection head 40 in the forward direction. After that, the transport belt 30 rotates in the reverse direction. The test piece 101 is returned to its initial position together with the RF tag 120. Furthermore, each time the position of the test piece 101 is shifted away from the side portion 22 relative to its initial position, the transport in the forward and reverse directions is repeated. In this case, in the processing related to the generation of history information, the control controller 71 reverses the order of the processing in step S10 and the processing in step S12. Note that the flow of operation verification using the check bar 102 is substantially the same as the operation verification using the test piece 101, except for the way the check bar 102 is installed, so a detailed explanation is omitted. Furthermore, the procedure for verifying operation using test card 103 is essentially the same as that for verifying operation using test piece 101, except that test stand 104 may be used, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0098] According to the third embodiment described above, the same actions and effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained. <Other Embodiments> Each of the above embodiments may be modified as follows. Furthermore, the following other embodiments can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not conflict with the technical standards.

[0099] In each embodiment, the serial information may itself be identification information that identifies the metal S to be inspected. Alternatively, the serial information may itself be identification information that identifies the inspection component 100.

[0100] In the test piece 101 of each embodiment, the inspection metal S may be obtained by attaching the test card 103 to the upper surface PPa of the piece-shaped member PP. In the test piece 101 of each embodiment, the RF tag 120 may be offset from the center when viewed from above, as long as it is attached to the upper surface PPa. The other embodiments described herein can also be applied to bar-shaped members BP or card-shaped members CP.

[0101] In each embodiment of the test piece 101, the RF tag 120 may be integrally attached to a surface other than the upper surface PPa. The other embodiments described herein can also be applied to bar-shaped members BP or card-shaped members CP.

[0102] In the test piece 101 of each embodiment, the inspection metal S may be provided on a surface other than the upper surface PPa. The other embodiments described herein can also be applied to bar-shaped members BP or card-shaped members CP.

[0103] In each embodiment, the equipment information may include at least one of the following: a timestamp recorded when the operation is checked, the detection result of the metal S for inspection by the detection head 40, and setting information regarding the environment of the metal detector 10.

[0104] In each embodiment, the setting information may include at least one of the sensor sensitivity and the rotational speed of the conveyor belt 30. In the first embodiment, the process in step S12 in Figure 5 may be the process before or after the process in step S16. The other embodiments described herein can also be applied to the second and third embodiments. For example, in the second embodiment, the process in step S16 is the process before the processes in steps S10 and S12, but it may be the process before or after the process in step S12.

[0105] In the first embodiment, of the two photoelectric sensors 61 and 62, the photoelectric sensor 61 located on the forward upstream side may also have the function of photoelectric sensor 62. For example, the RFID antenna 50 operates when the photoelectric sensor 61 detects the passage of product 11. In this case, photoelectric sensor 62 can be omitted. In other words, the needle detector 10 only needs to have one photoelectric sensor 60. In other embodiments described herein, for example, as shown in Figure 10, the RFID antenna 50 may be adjacent to the detection head 40 on the forward downstream side.

[0106] In the first embodiment, the RFID antenna 50 may be positioned in area A3 at a location where the distance from the detection head 40 is greater than the distance from the antenna to the exit 23b of the inspection area 23.

[0107] In the second embodiment, of the two photoelectric sensors 61 and 62, the photoelectric sensor 62 located on the forward upstream side may have the function of photoelectric sensor 61. For example, the detection head 40 operates when the photoelectric sensor 62 detects the passage of the product 11. In this case, photoelectric sensor 61 can be eliminated. In other words, the needle detector 10 only needs to have one photoelectric sensor 60. In other embodiments described herein, for example, as shown in Figure 10, the RFID antenna 50 may be adjacent to the detection head 40 on the forward upstream side.

[0108] In the second embodiment, the RFID antenna 50 may be positioned in area A1 at a location where the distance from the detection head 40 is greater than the distance from the antenna to the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23.

[0109] In a third embodiment, during operation verification, instead of reading the ID signal with the first RFID antenna 53, the ID signal may be read with the second RFID antenna 54. For example, after passing the detection head 40, the test piece 101 is transported in the forward direction through area A3, and its passage is detected by the photoelectric sensor 64. This activates the second RFID antenna 54, and the ID signal is read as the test piece 101 passes the second RFID antenna 54 in the forward direction. The transport belt 30 then rotates in the return direction. The test piece 101 should be returned to its initial position together with the RF tag 120.

[0110] In the third embodiment, the first photoelectric sensor 63, located on the upstream side in the forward direction of the two photoelectric sensors 61, 62 (63, 64), may have the functions of both photoelectric sensors 61 and 62 and 63, 64. For example, the detection head 40 operates when the photoelectric sensor 63 detects the passage of the product 11. The second RFID antenna 54 also operates when the photoelectric sensor 63 detects the passage of the product 11. In this case, the photoelectric sensors 61 and 64 can be omitted. In other words, the needle detector 10 only needs to have one photoelectric sensor 60. In the other embodiments described herein, for example, as shown in Figure 10, the first RFID antenna 53 may be adjacent to the detection head 40 on the upstream side in the forward direction. The second RFID antenna 54 may be adjacent to the detection head 40 on the downstream side in the forward direction.

[0111] In the third embodiment, the first RFID antenna 53 may be positioned in area A1 at a location where the distance from the detection head 40 is greater than the distance from the antenna to the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23. The second RFID antenna 54 may also be positioned in area A3 at a location where the distance from the detection head 40 is greater than the distance from the antenna to the exit 23b of the inspection area 23.

[0112] In each embodiment, the photoelectric sensor 60 may be omitted. In other words, the meter reader 10 does not need to have the photoelectric sensor 60. In the other embodiments described herein, the detection head 40 and RFID antenna 50 (53, 54) may be activated, for example, when the meter reader 10 is started, and continue to operate while the meter reader 10 is running.

[0113] In each embodiment, the control controller 71 may stop the rotation of the conveyor belt 30 if it determines that unwanted metal is mixed into the product 11. In this case, the control controller 71 may rotate the conveyor belt 30 in the reverse direction via the input of the operation input unit 22a.

[0114] In each embodiment, the detection head 40 may be provided so as to span the width of the inspection area 23 along a direction intersecting the forward direction. In each embodiment, the RFID antennas 50(53,54) may be provided separately from the main body 20. In this case, the RFID antennas 50(53,54) only need to be installed in a fixed position corresponding to the main body 20 when the needle detector 10 is in use. In other words, the RFID antennas 50(53,54) only need to be provided substantially integrally with the main body 20.

[0115] In each embodiment, the association between information obtained in connection with meter reading and product 11 may be performed on a server 90 or other processing device connected to the processing device 70 via a network. In this case, the processing device 70 only needs to have the function of generating information obtained in connection with meter reading and individual information identified from the ID signal. The processing device connected to the processing device 70 via a network may be, for example, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, etc. The other embodiments described herein can also be similarly applied to the generation of historical information and the management of traceability.

[0116] In each embodiment, the RFID antenna 50 may have a shielding shield to suppress leakage of radio waves emitted by the radio wave transmitting unit 51 from within its internal space. In each embodiment, the RFID antenna 50 may be integrally provided with respect to the detection head 40. That is, the detection head 40 may include a radio wave transmitting unit 51 and an information reading unit 52 that constitute the RFID antenna 50.

[0117] In each embodiment, the needle detector 10 may include at least one detection head 40, and may include two detection heads, for example, a first detection head and a second detection head. In one example, the first detection head and the second detection head may be arranged such that an RFID antenna 50 is positioned between them in the forward direction.

[0118] In each embodiment, area A1 of the inspection area 23 may be defined as an area indicating that there is a possibility that unwanted metal is mixed into the product 11 before inspection. In this case, for example, areas A2 and A3 may be defined as areas indicating that there is no possibility that unwanted metal is mixed into the product 11 after inspection. In the other embodiments described herein, the inspection area 23 only needs to include at least one area indicating that there is no possibility that unwanted metal is mixed into the product 11 and one area indicating that there is a possibility that unwanted metal is mixed into the product 11. For example, the area where inspection is performed and the area indicating that there is a possibility that unwanted metal is mixed into the product 11 may overlap in some respects. In the first and fourth embodiments, the area indicating that there is no possibility that unwanted metal is mixed into the product 11 may be the area downstream of the RFID antenna 50, i.e., area A3a. In the second embodiment, the area indicating that there is a possibility that unwanted metal is mixed into the product 11 may be the area upstream of the RFID antenna 50, i.e., area A1a. These also apply to the third embodiment, where the "area indicating that there is no possibility of unwanted metal being mixed into product 11" may be area A3a, and the "area indicating that there is a possibility of unwanted metal being mixed into product 11" may be area A1a. [Explanation of symbols]

[0119] 10… Meter reading machine 11…Products 12…RF tag 20...Main unit of the device 23…Inspection Area 30…Conveyor belt 40...Detection head 50…RFID antenna 70… Processing equipment 71…Control Controller 100... Inspection parts 101…Test piece 102... Check bar 120...RF tag PP...piece-shaped member BP... bar-shaped member CP...Card-shaped member S... Metal for inspection

Claims

1. An inspection component used in pre-use operational checks of a metal detector for inspecting whether or not unwanted metals are mixed into the object being inspected, The sample that is the subject of inspection during the aforementioned operational check, Includes a tag on which electrical information is recorded, The tag is attached integrally to the sample for testing together with the sample. The aforementioned electrical information is an inspection component that generates historical information used for managing traceability regarding the operational check, which is generated by electrically reading the electrical information from the meter reader and linking it with the information obtained from the meter reader.

2. The aforementioned electrical information includes the serial information of the tag, The inspection member according to claim 1, wherein the historical information is configured to be generated by linking the serial information with the information obtained from the needle detector.

3. The inspection member according to claim 2, wherein the information obtained from the meter reader is configured to include at least one of a timestamp recorded when the operation check is performed, the result of the operation check, and equipment information relating to the environment of the meter reader at the time the operation check was performed.

4. The aforementioned sample is a piece-shaped member composed of a metal for inspection, A single tag is attached to the aforementioned piece-shaped member. The inspection member according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the electrical information includes identification information for identifying the metal to be inspected.

5. The aforementioned sample is a bar-shaped member composed of a metal for inspection, A single tag is attached to the bar-shaped member. The inspection member according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the electrical information includes identification information for identifying the metal to be inspected.

6. The aforementioned sample is a card-shaped member composed of a metal for inspection, A single tag is attached to the card-shaped member. The inspection member according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the electrical information includes identification information for identifying the metal to be inspected.

7. A metal detector for checking whether or not unwanted metals are mixed into the object being inspected. A device body having an inspection area for performing the inspection of the object to be inspected, A conveyor belt configured to transport the object to be inspected at least in the forward direction so that the object to be inspected passes through the inspection area, At least one metal detection unit configured to detect the metal as the object to be inspected passes through the conveyor belt being transported in the forward direction, At least one electrical information reading unit configured to read the electrical information recorded on the tag as the tag, which is transported together with the object to be inspected, passes through, The system includes an information processing unit that acquires and processes equipment information including the detection result of the metal detection unit, and the results read by the electrical information reading unit. The metal detection unit is integrally provided with the main body of the device at a point along the forward direction of the inspection area, and is also provided so as to straddle the inspection area in a direction intersecting the forward direction. The electrical information reading unit is positioned to read the electrical information recorded on the tag as it passes through the inspection area, and is configured to read the electrical information recorded on the tag that is integrally attached to the sample to be used for inspection together with the sample containing the inspection component that is the object of inspection used in the operational check before use of the needle detector. The information processing unit is configured to include a process for generating historical information used for managing traceability of the operation check by linking the electrical information read by the electrical information reading unit with the equipment information.

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