Vertical inspection table and inspection method for visual inspection

Abstract

The present invention provides a vertical inspection stand for visual inspection that allows the transparent film to be easily moved up and down and left and right, thereby reducing the likelihood of overlooking defects. [Solution] The present disclosure provides a vertical inspection table for visual inspection of a transparent film to be inspected, comprising: a base; a support having a pair of support columns fixed to the base and extending in the vertical direction, and a connecting column connecting the pair of support columns; a vertically movable frame having a pair of first vertical frames and a pair of first horizontal frames, and arranged to be movable in the vertical direction along the pair of support columns of the support; a left-right movable frame having a pair of second vertical frames and a pair of second horizontal frames, and arranged to be movable in the left-right direction along the pair of first horizontal frames of the vertically movable frame, for attaching the transparent film; and a locking mechanism for fixing the vertically movable frame to the support at a predetermined height.

Description

Technical Field

[0004] ,

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a vertical inspection table for visual inspection used for visually inspecting a transparent film as a test object, and an inspection method using the vertical inspection table for visual inspection.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, various inspection devices and inspection tables have been used for the appearance inspection of test objects. For example, for the inspection of an optical film, an automatic inspection device equipped with a light-emitting device, such as a laser light source, and a camera may be used. The automatic inspection device requires a dedicated computer and dedicated software and is expensive. Therefore, visual inspection may be performed.

[0003] Patent Document 1 is an appearance inspection device for inspecting the appearance of a rotating test object such as a nuclear fuel pellet for a nuclear reactor. At least a pair of rollers are provided rotatably, and trays for placing the test object are arranged at one end of each roller. In the appearance inspection device for a test object that transfers the rotating test object placed on the tray onto each roller by a transfer mechanism for transferring the test object between the tray and each roller and inspects the appearance of the test object, the tray is provided at one end of each roller so as to be able to contact and separate from the roller, and a roller movement mechanism for contacting or separating one end of each roller from the tray is attached to each roller. An appearance inspection device for a test object is described.

[0004] Furthermore, Patent Document 2 discloses an appearance inspection device characterized by comprising: a visual designation means for indicating a visually designated position on the main surface of a large photomask indicated based on visual observation; a visual designation information acquisition means for acquiring visual designation information; a two-dimensional coordinate calculation means for calculating the two-dimensional coordinates of the main surface of the large photomask indicating the visual designation position from the visual designation information; a microscope that can be moved to a position where each position on the main surface of the large photomask can be observed; a microscope driving means for moving the microscope to a position where the position on the main surface of the large photomask indicated by the two-dimensional coordinates can be observed; and a two-dimensional coordinate input means for inputting two-dimensional coordinates indicating an arbitrary position on the main surface of the large photomask. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Publication number 3-45175 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2019 / 208808 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] Examples of inspection tables used for visual inspection of transparent films include horizontal inspection tables, where the transparent film is positioned approximately horizontally for inspection, and vertical inspection tables, where the transparent film is positioned approximately vertically for inspection. When inspecting optical films using a vertical inspection table, for example, the transparent film is suspended from a hanger-type frame, and the inspector holds an observation light and performs a visual inspection by moving their head and gaze in all directions (up, down, left, and right). This makes the work cumbersome for the inspector, puts a strain on their body, and increases the risk of overlooking defects.

[0007] This disclosure is an invention made in view of the above circumstances, and its main purpose is to provide a vertical inspection stand for visual inspection that allows the transparent film to be inspected to be easily moved up and down and left and right, thereby suppressing the oversight of defective areas. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] This disclosure provides a vertical inspection table for visual inspection of a transparent film to be inspected, comprising: a base; a support having a pair of support columns fixed to the base and extending in the vertical direction, and a connecting column connecting the pair of support columns; a vertically movable frame having a pair of first vertical frames and a pair of first horizontal frames, and arranged to be movable in the vertical direction along the pair of support columns of the support; a left-right movable frame having a pair of second vertical frames and a pair of second horizontal frames, and arranged to be movable in the left-right direction along the pair of first horizontal frames of the vertically movable frame, for attaching the transparent film; and a locking mechanism for fixing the vertically movable frame to the support at a predetermined height.

[0009] Furthermore, this disclosure provides an inspection method using the vertical inspection table for visual inspection described above, comprising: a fixing step of fixing the transparent film to the left and right movable frame of the vertical inspection table for visual inspection; a position adjustment step of adjusting the position of the transparent film by holding a part of the left and right movable frame to which the transparent film is fixed by hand and moving it in at least one of the vertical and horizontal directions; and an observation step of visually observing the transparent film while irradiating it with light using an observation lamp. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide a vertical inspection stand for visual inspection that allows the transparent film to be inspected to be easily moved up and down and left and right, thereby reducing the chance of overlooking defects. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a vertical inspection table for visual inspection according to this disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a schematic front view showing an example of a vertical inspection table for visual inspection according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3]This is a schematic rear view showing an example of a vertical inspection table for visual inspection according to the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This is a schematic front view showing an example of the vertical inspection table for visual inspection according to this disclosure after the object to be inspected has been mounted. [Figure 5] This is a schematic perspective view of the prismatic member in this disclosure. [Figure 6] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the area near the first roller within the dotted line frame in Figure 3. [Figure 7] Figure 2 shows a schematic perspective view illustrating the second roller in this disclosure, and a schematic diagram illustrating the second roller and the second horizontal frame of the left and right movable frame within the dotted line frame in Figure 2. [Figure 8] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cylindrical member in this disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to drawings and other figures. However, this disclosure can be implemented in many different ways and should not be interpreted as being limited to the embodiments described below. In addition, in order to make the explanation clearer, the drawings may schematically represent the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part compared to the actual form, but these are merely examples and should not limit the interpretation of this disclosure. Furthermore, in this specification and each figure, elements similar to those described above with respect to previously shown figures will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed explanations may be omitted as appropriate.

[0013] In this specification, when describing a configuration in which one component is placed on top of another component, unless otherwise specified, the terms "on top" or "below" include both cases: one where the other component is placed directly above or below the component in contact with it, and another where the other component is placed above or below the component via yet another component. Furthermore, when describing a configuration in this specification in which one component is placed on the surface of another component, unless otherwise specified, the terms "on the surface" or "on the surface" include both cases: one where the other component is placed directly above or below the component in contact with it, and another where the other component is placed above or below the component via yet another component.

[0014] A. Vertical inspection table for visual inspection This disclosure provides a vertical inspection table for visual inspection of a transparent film to be inspected, comprising: a base; a support having a pair of support columns fixed to the base and extending vertically, and a connecting column connecting the pair of support columns; a vertically movable frame having a pair of first vertical frames and a pair of first horizontal frames, and arranged to be movable vertically along the pair of support columns of the support; a left-right movable frame having a pair of second vertical frames and a pair of second horizontal frames, and arranged to be movable left-right along the pair of first horizontal frames of the vertically movable frame, for attaching the transparent film; and a locking mechanism for fixing the vertically movable frame to the support at a predetermined height.

[0015] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a vertical inspection table for visual inspection in this disclosure, Figure 2 is a schematic front view showing an example of a vertical inspection table for visual inspection in this disclosure, and Figure 3 is a schematic rear view showing an example of a vertical inspection table for visual inspection in this disclosure. Figure 4 is a schematic front view showing an example of a vertical inspection table for visual inspection in this disclosure after a transparent film has been attached.

[0016] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the vertical inspection table 100 for visual inspection of the present disclosure includes a pedestal 10, a support 20, a vertically movable frame 30, a horizontally movable frame 40, and a locking mechanism 50. In FIG. 1, the vertically movable frame 30 is shown in black. The support 20 has a pair of support columns 21 (21a and 21b) fixed to the pedestal 10 and extending in the vertical direction, and connecting columns 22 (22a and 22b) connecting the pair of support columns 21 (21a and 21b). The vertically movable frame 30 has a pair of first vertical frames 31 (31a and 31b) and a pair of first horizontal frames 32 (32a and 32b), and is arranged to be movable in the vertical direction along the pair of support columns 21 (21a and 21b) of the support 20. The horizontally movable frame 40 is a member for attaching a transparent film T as an inspection object, and has a pair of second vertical frames 41 (41a and 41b) and a pair of second horizontal frames 42 (42a and 42b), and is arranged to be movable in the horizontal direction along the pair of first horizontal frames 32 (32a and 32b) of the vertically movable frame 30. The locking mechanism 50 fixes the vertically movable frame 30 to the support 20 at a predetermined height.

[0017] In this specification, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, with the vertical inspection table for visual inspection as a reference, the direction on the inspector side (the direction in front of the paper surface in FIGS. 2 and 4) is defined as the front, and the direction opposite to the inspector side (the direction in the back of the paper surface in FIGS. 2 and 4) is defined as the back. Also, the left-right direction is defined as the direction when viewed from the inspector side.

[0018] The vertical inspection table 100 for visual inspection of the present disclosure includes a vertically movable frame 30 arranged to be movable in the vertical direction along a pair of support columns 21 (21a and 21b) of a support 20, and a left-right movable frame 40 attached to be movable in the left-right direction along a pair of first horizontal frames 32 (32a and 32b) of the vertically movable frame 30 for attaching a transparent film T as an inspection object. In the vertical inspection table 100 for visual inspection of the present disclosure, an inspector can release a lock mechanism 50, grasp any part of the left-right movable frame 40 (for example, either or both of the second vertical frames 41 (41a and 41b)), and move the hand in the vertical direction to move the left-right movable frame 40 and the vertically movable frame 30 in the vertical direction along the support 20. Also, the inspector can grasp any part of the left-right movable frame 40 (for example, either or both of the second vertical frames 41 (41a and 41b)), and move the hand in the left-right direction to move the left-right movable frame 4 in the left-right direction along a pair of first horizontal frames 32 (32a and 32b) of the vertically movable frame 30.

[0019] Further, the vertical inspection table 100 for visual inspection of the present disclosure has a lock mechanism 50. By having the lock mechanism 50, during the operation of the lock mechanism 50, the vertically movable frame 30 can be fixed to the support 20 at a predetermined height, and the vertically movable frame 30 can be prevented from descending. On the other hand, by releasing the lock mechanism 50, the vertically movable frame 30 can be moved in the vertical direction.

[0020] According to the vertical inspection stand for visual inspection of this disclosure, the inspector can move the transparent film up, down, left, and right depending on the observation point on the transparent film. This allows the inspector to observe the transparent film while maintaining the distance and angle between their eye and the observation point on the transparent film, thereby reducing the likelihood of overlooking defects. According to the vertical inspection stand for visual inspection of this disclosure, the inspector can also perform inspection by shining light onto the transparent film from the inspector's side (front side) relative to the vertical inspection stand and observing the reflected light, or by shining light onto the transparent film from the opposite side (rear side) relative to the inspector and observing the transmitted light. According to the vertical inspection stand for visual inspection of this disclosure, the inspector can perform the inspection while seated in a chair. When observing transmitted light while seated, the transmitted light from the opposite side (rear side) relative to the vertical inspection stand can be directed above the inspector's head, preventing strong light from directly entering the eyes.

[0021] Furthermore, since the inspector can easily move the transparent film up, down, left, and right simply by moving their hands, there is no need to move their head or gaze in all directions to perform a visual inspection, as is the case with conventional vertical inspection tables used for visual inspection. Therefore, the workload on the inspector can be reduced.

[0022] Furthermore, with the vertical inspection table for visual inspection described herein, foreign matter such as dust is less likely to adhere to the transparent film compared to a horizontal inspection table. Also, optical films may contain defects such as stains, dirt, foreign matter, and scratches. When inspecting an optical film with the vertical inspection table described herein, as mentioned above, inspection is possible by observing the transmitted light. Therefore, compared to a horizontal inspection table where light is shone from behind the inspector, it is easier to detect defects such as scratches, especially shallow scratches, due to the unique shape. In the case of a horizontal inspection table where light is shone from behind the inspector, the light from the light source enters the surface directly, which can cause scattered light from minute scratches to be obscured and difficult to see.

[0023] The configurations of the vertical inspection table for visual inspection described in this disclosure will be explained in detail below.

[0024] 1.Support As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the support 20 in this disclosure has a pair of support columns 21 (21a and 21b) fixed to the base 10 and extending in the vertical direction, and a connecting column 22 (22a and 22b) that connects the pair of support columns 21 (21a and 21b).

[0025] The support columns and connecting columns are not particularly limited, but are preferably prismatic members with a substantially square or substantially rectangular cross-section. The prismatic members preferably have grooves formed along their longitudinal direction. Examples of groove cross-sectional shapes include T-shapes and rectangular shapes. The support columns and connecting columns are assembled to the support using, for example, connecting brackets, bolts, and nuts.

[0026] Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view illustrating prismatic members used as support columns and connecting columns. The prismatic member 200 shown in Figure 5(a) has a roughly square cross-section and has a through hole 200a located in the center of the cross-section, and a roughly T-shaped groove 200s extending longitudinally through the center of each of the four sides 200b of the prismatic member 200. The prismatic member 200 shown in Figure 5(b) has a roughly rectangular cross-section and has two through holes 200a, an intermediate through hole 200c located between the two through holes 200a, and a roughly T-shaped groove 200s extending longitudinally along each of the four sides 200b of the prismatic member 200. Prismatic members having these shapes have high rigidity, and when used as support columns and connecting columns, they can suppress the shaking of vertical inspection tables used for visual inspection during inspection, further reducing the chance of overlooking defects in transparent films.

[0027] The material of the support columns and connecting columns is not particularly limited, but examples include aluminum, aluminum alloy, iron, and stainless steel. Among these, aluminum and aluminum alloy are preferred from the viewpoint of reducing weight.

[0028] Examples of support columns and connecting columns having the above-mentioned shape and material include the SF series (manufactured by SUS Corporation).

[0029] The height of the support is not particularly limited, but it is preferable that it be at a height that allows the position of the vertically movable frame to be adjusted so that the transparent film being inspected can be observed while seated in a chair.

[0030] 2. Up and down movable frame The vertically movable frame in this disclosure is a member having a pair of first vertical frames and a pair of first horizontal frames, and is arranged to be movable in the vertical direction along a pair of support columns of a support. Preferably, the vertically movable frame is located inside the pair of support columns.

[0031] As shown in Figure 1, the vertically movable frame 30 has a pair of first vertical frames 31 (31a and 31b) and a pair of first horizontal frames 32 (32a and 32b). As shown in Figure 1, a plurality of locking parts 51 constituting a locking mechanism 50, which will be described later, may be fixed below one of the first vertical frames 31b.

[0032] The first vertical frame and the first horizontal frame are not particularly limited, but it is preferable to use prismatic members with a cross-sectional shape that is approximately square or approximately rectangular. Examples of prismatic members include those having a structure similar to the prismatic members in the support described above.

[0033] The material of the first vertical frame and the first horizontal frame is not particularly limited, but examples include aluminum, aluminum alloy, iron, and stainless steel. Among these, aluminum and aluminum alloy are preferred from the viewpoint of weight reduction.

[0034] Examples of the first vertical frame and first horizontal frame having the above-mentioned shape and material include the SF series (manufactured by SUS Corporation).

[0035] The mechanism for making the vertically movable frame movable is not particularly limited, but a combination of a first roller having a protrusion fixed to each of a pair of first vertical frames and a pair of support columns provided with grooves is preferred. With such a combination, the vertically movable frame can slide smoothly with little resistance, and the vertical inspection table for visual inspection can be made smaller.

[0036] For example, as shown in Figure 3, it is preferable that a first roller R1 is fixed to each of the pair of first vertical frames 31 (31a and 31b). Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the first roller R1 within the dotted line frame in Figure 3. As shown in Figure 6, the first roller R1 has a protrusion 300a, and it is preferable that the width w1 of the protrusion 300a of the first roller R1 is slightly smaller than the width w2 of the groove 200s provided in the support column 21b (prismatic member 200) of the support body 20, so that the protrusion 300a fits into the groove 200s provided in the support column 21b (prismatic member 200) of the support body 20. With such a shape, the protrusion 300a of the first roller R1 is fitted into the groove 200s of the support column 21 of the support body 20, and the first roller R1 can move in the vertical direction while in contact with the support column 21. A slot roller SS (manufactured by SUS Co., Ltd.) can be used as the first roller R1.

[0037] The number of first rollers R1 arranged in one first vertical frame 31 is not particularly limited, but may be two or more, or three or more.

[0038] The mechanism for making the vertically movable frame movable is not limited to the combinations described above.

[0039] The vertical range of motion of the vertically movable frame is, for example, 28 cm or more, may be 40 cm or more, or 50 cm or more. On the other hand, the above range of motion is, for example, 70 cm or less, or 60 cm or less. Note that the vertical range of motion of the vertically movable frame refers to the maximum distance that the center of the vertically movable frame moves in the vertical direction.

[0040] The mechanism for making the left and right movable frame bodies, described later, movable is not particularly limited, but a combination of a second roller having a recess fixed to each of a pair of first horizontal frames of the vertical movable frame body and a pair of second horizontal frames on the left and right movable frame bodies, each of which has a projection, is preferred. By using such a combination, the left and right movable frame bodies can slide smoothly with little resistance, and the vertical inspection table for visual inspection can be made smaller.

[0041] For example, as shown in Figure 2, it is preferable that a second roller R2 is fixed to each of the pair of first horizontal frames 32 (32a and 32b). Figure 7(a) is a schematic perspective view illustrating the second roller R2, and Figure 7(b) is a schematic diagram illustrating the second roller R2 and the second horizontal frame 42b of the left and right movable frame 40 within the dotted line frame in Figure 2. As shown in Figures 7(a) and 7(b), it is preferable that the second roller R2 has a recess 400a, and the width w3 of the recess 400a is approximately equal to the width w4 of the projection 500p provided on the second horizontal frame 42 (42a, 42b) of the left and right movable frame 40, so that the projection 500p fits into the recess 400a of the second roller R2. As the projection of the second horizontal frame of the left and right movable frame moves while fitting into the recess of the second roller, the left and right movable frame can be moved smoothly in the left and right direction. As the second roller R2 having this shape, a GF roller (manufactured by SUS Corporation) can be used.

[0042] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the second horizontal frames (42a, 42b) of the left-right movable frame 40 are positioned inward from the first horizontal frames (32a, 32b) of the vertical movable frame 30. This allows the left-right movable frame 40 to be moved left and right while being gripped by the second rollers R2 positioned vertically, thereby suppressing the shaking of the vertical inspection table for visual inspection during inspection.

[0043] The number of second rollers arranged on a single first horizontal frame is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of ensuring stability of movement in the left-right direction, it may be, for example, two or more, or even three or more.

[0044] 3. Left and right movable frame The left-right movable frame in this disclosure has a pair of second vertical frames and a pair of second horizontal frames, is arranged to be movable in the left-right direction along a pair of first horizontal frames of the up-down movable frame, and is a member for attaching the transparent film to be inspected.

[0045] As the second horizontal frame, for example, a columnar member can be used. Examples of columnar members used as the second horizontal frame include cylindrical members with a substantially circular cross-section. Figures 8(a) and 8(b) are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating cylindrical members used as the second horizontal frame. As shown in Figure 8(a), it is preferable that the cylindrical member 500 has a projection 500p extending in the longitudinal direction. The cylindrical member 500 may also have multiple projections 500p. The cylindrical member 500 may also have a through hole 500a located at the center of the cross-section, in order to reduce weight. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8(b), the cylindrical member 500 may have a shape in which a cylindrical portion 500b having a through hole 500a and projections 500p and a flat portion 500c extending in the longitudinal direction are integrated. Using the cylindrical member 500 shown in Figure 8(b) as the second horizontal frame 42 is preferable because it allows for easy attachment of the transparent film to the flat portion 500c. In this case, it is preferable to use the cylindrical member 500 as the second horizontal frame 42 with the flat portion 500c facing forward relative to the through hole 500a. This is because having the flat portion 500c facing forward makes it even easier to attach the transparent film. An example of a cylindrical member is the "GF series (manufactured by SUS Co., Ltd.)".

[0046] The second vertical frame may be, for example, a columnar member and may function as a handle. Examples of columnar members used as the second vertical frame include cylindrical members with a substantially circular cross-section. The shape of the cylindrical member is not particularly limited.

[0047] The material of the second vertical frame and the second horizontal frame is not particularly limited, but examples include aluminum, aluminum alloy, iron, and stainless steel. Among these, aluminum and aluminum alloy are preferred from the viewpoint of weight reduction.

[0048] The mechanism for making the left and right movable frames movable is not limited to the combination of the second roller described above and the second horizontal frame provided with a projection. Another example of a mechanism for making the frames movable in the left and right direction is a combination of a resin idler or V-roller fixed to the first horizontal frame and a cylindrical member 500 having a flat portion 500c as shown in Figure 8(b). In this case, the cylindrical member 500 shown in Figure 8(b) is positioned as the second horizontal frame so that the flat portion 500c is on the rear side with respect to the through hole 500a, and the left and right movable frame can be made movable in the left and right direction by the flat portion 500c fitting into the groove of the resin idler or V-roller.

[0049] The range of motion of the left-right movable frame in the left-right direction is, for example, 45 cm or more, may be 50 cm or more, or may be 70 cm or more. On the other hand, the range of motion is, for example, 150 cm or less, or may be 100 cm or less. Note that the range of motion of the left-right movable frame in the left-right direction refers to the maximum distance the center of the left-right movable frame moves in the left-right direction.

[0050] The left and right movable frame may be provided with an object fixing part for fixing the transparent film to be inspected. The object fixing part is not particularly limited as long as it is a member that can easily attach and fix the transparent film to the left and right movable frame and can easily remove the transparent film from the left and right movable frame. For example, as shown in Figure 4, by attaching steel tape or small pieces of iron plate as the object fixing part 43 to the second horizontal frame (42a, 42b) of the left and right movable frame 40, the transparent film T can be fixed using a magnetic clip M. On the other hand, the left and right movable frame does not have to be provided with an object fixing part. In this case, the object may be fixed to the object fixing part using a separately prepared fixing means. Examples of such fixing means include double-sided adhesive tape.

[0051] 4. Base The base is a member that supports the support body, the vertically movable frame, and the horizontally movable frame as described above. The base is formed by combining, for example, multiple columnar members. For example, multiple columnar members can be combined in an H-shape, N-shape, or rectangular frame shape. Examples of columnar members used in the base include those having a structure similar to the rectangular columnar members in the support body described above. Specifically, the SF series (manufactured by SUS Corporation) can be mentioned.

[0052] 5. Locking mechanism The vertical inspection table for visual inspection in this disclosure has a locking mechanism that fixes the vertically movable frame to the support at a predetermined height. By having a locking mechanism, when the locking mechanism is activated, the vertically movable frame can be prevented from descending and fixed at a predetermined height, so that the inspector can observe the object under inspection at a predetermined height.

[0053] As shown in Figure 1, the locking mechanism 50 preferably includes, for example, a plurality of locking parts 51 fixed in a vertical direction at predetermined intervals to one of the pair of first vertical frames 31b of the vertically movable frame 30, a movable locking claw 52 provided on the support 20 and capable of engaging with the locking parts 51, and a pedal 53 for releasing the engagement between the locking parts 51 and the locking claw 52.

[0054] The locking mechanism has multiple locking parts arranged at predetermined intervals, allowing for uniform inspection across the transparent film surface. The locking part 51 is preferably a columnar member, fixed to one of the pair of first vertical frames 31 of the vertically movable frame 30, with its longitudinal direction being horizontal. The GF series (manufactured by SUS Corporation) can be used as the locking part 51.

[0055] As shown in Figure 1, the locking claw 52 is fixed to the support 20, for example, via a connecting portion 55, and is a member that can engage with each of the multiple locking portions 51. That is, when the locking claw 52 catches on one of the multiple locking portions 51, the vertically movable frame 30 is fixed in a predetermined position so as not to descend. Furthermore, it is preferable that the locking claw 52 is biased toward the locking portion 51 by the elastic force of an elastic member such as a spring so as not to disengage from the engagement between the locking portion 51 and the locking claw 52.

[0056] The pedal is preferably designed so that the engagement between the locking part and the locking claw can be released by the inspector lifting it with their toes. If the release is made by pressing down on the pedal, malfunctions may occur due to accidental pressing of the pedal. The position of the pedal is not particularly limited, but it is preferably located on a base.

[0057] As shown in Figure 1, the pedal 53 is preferably a columnar member, and it is preferable that the rear end of the pedal 53 and the locking claw 52 are connected by a wire 54. In such a locking mechanism 50, when the front end of the columnar member that serves as the pedal 53 is lifted with the toes, the rear end of the pedal 53 is lowered, the locking claw 52 connected to this rear end by the wire 54 is pulled out from the locking part 51, and the engagement between the locking part 51 and the locking claw 52 is released.

[0058] The number of locking parts is multiple, for example, two or more, and may be ten or more, twenty or more, or thirty or more. Having the number of locking parts within the above range improves the uniformity of the inspection. On the other hand, the number of locking parts may be, for example, 50 or less, or 40 or less. The distance between adjacent locking parts is preferably changed as appropriate depending on the inspection method and inspection conditions, for example, 1 cm or more, may be 1.5 cm or more, or 2 cm or more. On the other hand, the distance between adjacent locking parts may be, for example, 6 cm or less, may be 4 cm or less, or 3 cm or less.

[0059] The locking mechanism is not limited to the above-described configuration, as long as it can fix the vertically movable frame at a predetermined height.

[0060] 6.Speed ​​relaxation mechanism The vertical inspection table for visual inspection in this disclosure preferably has a speed reduction mechanism that reduces the downward speed of the vertically movable frame. By having a speed reduction mechanism, the downward speed of the vertically movable frame is suppressed, and safety is improved. As shown in Figure 3, the speed reduction mechanism 60 preferably has a pulley X1 fixed to the support 20, a pulley X2 fixed to the vertically movable frame 30, a lifting rail 61, and a weighted roller slider 62 mounted on the lifting rail 61 so as to be able to move up and down. The weighted roller slider 62 is preferably connected to the support 20 via a wire 63 that passes through the pulley X1 fixed to the support 20 and the pulley X2 fixed to the vertically movable frame 30. The weighted roller slider 62 has a weight portion 62a and a slider portion 62b, and by adjusting the weight of the weight portion 62a, the downward speed of the vertically movable frame 30 can be adjusted.

[0061] The configuration of the speed reduction mechanism is not limited to the above-described configuration, as long as it is possible to reduce the downward speed of the vertically movable frame.

[0062] 7. Other components The vertical inspection table for visual inspection in this disclosure may have an illumination holder that holds the observation light. When inspecting a transparent film by observing reflected light, light is shone onto the transparent film from the inspector's side (front side) with the vertical inspection table for visual inspection as a reference. On the other hand, when inspecting a transparent film by observing transmitted light, light is shone onto the film from the opposite side of the inspector's side (rear side) with the vertical inspection table for visual inspection as a reference. Therefore, it is preferable that the illumination holder is configured so that the inspector can freely move the observation light.

[0063] Examples of observation lighting include fluorescent lamps, high-intensity halogen floodlights, high-intensity LEDs, HID (Polarion), and Na lamps.

[0064] 8. Testing Method The inspection method for transparent film using a vertical inspection table for visual inspection as described in this disclosure is detailed in "B. Inspection Method".

[0065] 9. Transparent film Examples of transparent films for the object under inspection include functional transparent films such as optical films, protective films, antibacterial films, and transparent vapor-deposited films. Examples of optical films include anti-reflective films, anti-glare films, polarizing films, phase difference films, elliptical polarizing films, light diffusion films, brightness-enhancing films, prism films, and light guide films. Transparent means that the total light transmittance of visible light is 60% or more, preferably 80% or more, and particularly preferably 90% or more.

[0066] The transparent film is, for example, a rectangular film. The length of one side of the film is not particularly limited, but is preferably 25 cm or longer, and more preferably 40 cm or longer.

[0067] B. Testing Methods This disclosure provides an inspection method using the above-described vertical inspection table for visual inspection, comprising: a fixing step of fixing the transparent film to the left and right movable frame of the vertical inspection table for visual inspection; a position adjustment step of adjusting the position of the transparent film by holding a part of the left and right movable frame to which the transparent film is fixed by hand and moving it in at least one of the vertical and horizontal directions; and an observation step of visually observing the transparent film while irradiating it with light using an observation lamp.

[0068] With the inspection method described in this disclosure, the inspector can move the transparent film, which is fixed to a vertical inspection stand for visual inspection, up, down, left, and right depending on the area of ​​the transparent film being observed. This allows the inspector to observe the transparent film while maintaining the distance and angle between their eye and the area of ​​the transparent film being observed, thereby reducing the likelihood of overlooking defects. Furthermore, according to the inspection method described in this disclosure, the inspection can be performed by shining light onto the transparent film from the inspector's side (front side) relative to the vertical inspection stand for visual inspection and observing the reflected light, or by shining light onto the transparent film from the opposite side (rear side) relative to the inspector relative to the vertical inspection stand for visual inspection and observing the transmitted light. According to the inspection method described in this disclosure, the inspector can perform the inspection on the vertical inspection stand for visual inspection while seated in a chair. When observing transmitted light while seated, the light from the opposite side (rear side) relative to the inspector relative to the vertical inspection stand for visual inspection will be directed above the head, thus preventing strong light from directly entering the eyes.

[0069] Furthermore, since the inspector can easily move the transparent film up, down, left, and right simply by moving their hands, there is no need to move their head or gaze in all directions to perform a visual inspection, as is the case with conventional inspection methods using vertical inspection tables. Therefore, the workload on the inspector can be reduced.

[0070] Furthermore, optical films may contain defects such as stains, dirt, foreign matter, and scratches. When inspecting optical films using the vertical inspection table described in this disclosure, inspection becomes possible by observing transmitted light, as described above. Therefore, it is easier to detect defects such as scratches, especially shallow scratches, compared to a horizontal inspection table where light is shone from behind the inspector. In the case of a horizontal inspection table where light is shone from behind the inspector, the light from the light source enters the surface directly, which can cause scattered light from minute scratches to be obscured and difficult to see.

[0071] The vertical inspection table for visual inspection used in the inspection method of this disclosure has been described in detail in "A. Vertical Inspection Table for Visual Inspection" above, so its explanation is omitted here. The following describes each step of the inspection process in this disclosure in detail.

[0072] 1.Fixing process In this process, the transparent film to be inspected is fixed to the left and right movable frames of the vertical inspection table for visual inspection. It is preferable for the inspector to fix the transparent film approximately in the center of the left and right movable frames of the vertical inspection table for visual inspection. If the left and right movable frames have a part for fixing the object to be inspected, the transparent film may be fixed to the part for fixing the object to be inspected. Alternatively, the transparent film may be fixed approximately in the center of the left and right movable frames using a separately prepared fixing means.

[0073] 2.Position adjustment process In this process, the position of the transparent film is adjusted by holding a portion of the left and right movable frame on which the transparent film is fixed and moving it in at least one of the vertical and left / right directions. It is preferable for the inspector to hold the second vertical frame of the left and right movable frame as a handle and move the left and right movable frame (and the vertical movable frame). The inspector can move the transparent film up, down, left, and right depending on the area of ​​the transparent film to be observed. With the vertical inspection stand for visual inspection in this disclosure, the inspector can adjust the position of the transparent film while seated in a chair.

[0074] 3. Observation process In this process, the transparent film is visually observed while being illuminated with light using an observation lamp. The inspector can inspect the transparent film by repeatedly alternating between the position adjustment step and the observation step. According to the inspection method of this disclosure, the inspector can visually observe the transparent film while seated in a chair. The direction of light illumination is preferably adjusted as appropriate depending on the type of transparent film and the type of defect. For example, the light may be illuminated onto the transparent film from the inspector's side (front side) relative to the vertical inspection stand for visual inspection, or from the opposite side (rear side) relative to the inspector. The installation position of the observation lamp is not particularly limited as long as it is possible to illuminate the film from the above-mentioned direction. For example, it may be held by the illumination holder described above. It is preferable for the inspector to perform the inspection by moving the transparent film up, down, left, and right so that the distance and angle between the inspector's eye and the observation point on the transparent film are approximately constant.

[0075] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. The embodiments described above are illustrative, and any configuration that is substantially identical to the technical idea described in the claims of this disclosure and achieves similar effects is included within the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0076] Thus, the present disclosure provides, for example, the following inventions.

[0077] [1] A vertical inspection stand for visual inspection, used for visually inspecting a transparent film that is to be inspected, The base and A support having a pair of support columns fixed to the base and extending in the vertical direction, and a connecting column connecting the pair of support columns, A vertically movable frame having a pair of first vertical frames and a pair of first horizontal frames, and arranged to be movable vertically along the pair of support columns of the support, A left-right movable frame body having a pair of second vertical frames and a pair of second horizontal frames, which is arranged to move left-right along the pair of first horizontal frames of the vertically movable frame body, for attaching the transparent film, A vertical inspection table for visual inspection, comprising a locking mechanism for fixing the above-mentioned vertically movable frame to the above-mentioned support at a predetermined height. [2] The above locking mechanism is Multiple locking parts are fixed to one of the pair of first vertical frames of the above-mentioned vertically movable frame body, arranged vertically at predetermined intervals, A movable locking claw fixed to the above support and capable of engaging with the above locking portion, A vertical inspection table for visual inspection according to [1], comprising a pedal for releasing the engagement between the locking portion and the locking claw. [3] The above pedal is a vertical inspection stand for visual inspection as described in [1] or [2], wherein the inspector lifts it with their toes to release the engagement between the locking part and the locking claw. [4] The above-mentioned vertical inspection table for visual inspection is a vertical inspection table for visual inspection according to any one of [1] to [3], having a speed reduction mechanism for reducing the downward speed of the above-mentioned vertically movable frame. [5] The vertical inspection table for visual inspection according to [1], wherein the transparent film is an optical film. [6] An inspection method using a vertical inspection table for visual inspection as described in any of [1] to [5], A fixing step of fixing the transparent film to the left and right movable frame bodies of the vertical inspection table for visual inspection, A position adjustment step involves holding a part of the left and right movable frame body to which the transparent film is fixed by hand and moving it in at least one of the vertical and horizontal directions to adjust the position of the transparent film. An inspection method comprising an observation step of visually observing the transparent film while irradiating it with light using an observation lamp. [7] The inspection method according to [6], wherein the position adjustment step and the observation step are performed while seated in a chair. [Explanation of symbols]

[0078] 10… Pedestal 20…Support 30… Up and down movable frame 40… Movable frame (left and right) 50… Locking mechanism 51… Locking part 52… Locking claw 60… Velocity relaxation mechanism R1... 1st roll R2... Second Roll 100... Vertical inspection table for visual inspection

Claims

1. A vertical inspection stand for visual inspection, used for visually inspecting a transparent film that is to be inspected, The base and A support having a pair of support columns fixed to the base and extending in the vertical direction, and a connecting column connecting the pair of support columns, A vertically movable frame having a pair of first vertical frames and a pair of first horizontal frames, and arranged to be movable vertically along the pair of support columns of the support, A left-right movable frame body having a pair of second vertical frames and a pair of second horizontal frames, which is arranged to be movable in the left-right direction along the pair of first horizontal frames of the vertically movable frame body, for attaching the transparent film, A vertical inspection table for visual inspection, comprising a locking mechanism for fixing the vertically movable frame to the support at a predetermined height.

2. The locking mechanism is A plurality of locking parts are fixed to one of the pair of first vertical frames of the vertically movable frame body, arranged vertically at predetermined intervals, A movable locking claw, which is attached to the support and can engage with the locking portion, A vertical inspection table for visual inspection according to claim 1, further comprising a pedal for releasing the engagement between the locking portion and the locking claw.

3. The vertical inspection table for visual inspection according to claim 1, wherein the pedal is released from the engagement between the locking portion and the locking claw by the inspector lifting it with their toes.

4. The vertical inspection table for visual inspection according to claim 1, wherein the vertical inspection table for visual inspection has a speed reduction mechanism for reducing the downward speed of the vertically movable frame.

5. The vertical inspection table for visual inspection according to claim 1, wherein the transparent film is an optical film.

6. An inspection method using a vertical inspection table for visual inspection as described in claim 1, A fixing step of fixing the transparent film to the left and right movable frame bodies of the vertical inspection table for visual inspection, A position adjustment step involves holding a part of the left and right movable frame body to which the transparent film is fixed by hand and moving it in at least one of the vertical and horizontal directions to adjust the position of the transparent film. An inspection method comprising an observation step of visually observing the transparent film while irradiating it with light using an observation lamp.

7. The inspection method according to claim 6, wherein the position adjustment step and the observation step are performed while seated in a chair.

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