Inspection table

Abstract

To provide an inspection table which allows an image capturing device to photograph barcodes of multiple products.SOLUTION: An inspection table 3 is provided, comprising: a mounting table 12 configured to allow a tray 91 to be mounted thereon, the tray having multiple products 90 with codes 90a arranged thereon in such a way that the codes 90a are facing up; a frame 11 configured to rotatably support the mounting table 12 and to allow an image capturing device 4 for capturing images of objects on the mounting table 12 to be placed above the mounting table 12, and movement mechanism 13 configured to relatively change the imaging angle defined by a top surface of the mounting table 12 and the image capturing device 4.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an inspection table for capturing an image of an inspection object with an imaging device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, when a retailer receives products from a manufacturer or sales company, it inspects the entire number of products and records the purchases. Also, when a retailer, warehouse, or distribution center ships products, it inspects the products to make sure that the picked products are correct and match the shipping request information. It is known to perform inspections, records the purchases, and inspect the products by reading barcodes such as JAN codes attached to the products.

[0003] Also, as a technology for reading barcodes, a scanning laser radar is known which has an optical sensor that reads barcodes, calculates the range, width, and amount of reflection of the barcode, and decodes the barcode in order to improve the accuracy of reading the barcode (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0004] Also known is an optical information reading device that conveys rectangular sheets of paper along a conveying path and reads barcodes printed on the sheets of paper with a plurality of sensors (see, for example, Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-144892 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2012-252432 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] For example, barcode reading for incoming goods inspection, purchase accounting, shipping inspection, etc. is done manually by workers, requiring a lot of man-hours. For example, a scanning laser radar could be used, but the number of barcodes that can be read at one time is limited. In addition, since the scanning laser radar is designed to read barcodes located over a wide area, such as reading barcodes installed on an unmanned guided vehicle, it may be difficult to use it in a limited area, such as incoming goods inspection, purchase accounting, and shipping inspection. In addition, when there are a large number of small items, the number of barcodes that can be read at one time is limited, resulting in a problem of poor workability.

[0007] In addition, the configuration for transporting paper sheets on a transport path imposes limitations on the shape and number of products that can be transported. For this reason, there is a risk that it may not be possible to handle multiple types of products. In addition, when reading the barcodes of products while transporting them on a transport path, the number of products that can be read at one time is limited, so there is also the problem that it takes time and effort to detect a large number of relatively small products.

[0008] For example, it is conceivable to read barcodes by capturing images of multiple products arranged in a predetermined area and processing the captured image data. However, depending on the shape of the product, light from the flash of the imaging device or fluorescent lights may be reflected, making it possible to capture an image of the barcode. In addition, when processing image data of multiple products arranged and captured, if the barcodes of some of the multiple products cannot be read, an operator must check the products that cannot be read and re-read the products. In addition, the operator's confirmation work may cause human error. This may increase manual work and reduce the accuracy of purchase accounting and inspection.

[0009] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT EMBODIMENT An object of the present invention is to provide an inspection table capable of capturing images of the barcodes of multiple products using an imaging device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, the inspection table includes a placement table on which a tray on which a plurality of coded products are arranged with the codes facing upward can be placed; The angle of the imaging direction of an imaging device that images the upper surface of the mounting table and the surface of the mounting table can be relatively changed. The mounting table is rotatably supported, Previous photo a frame on which an imaging device can be placed above the stage; The above and a movement mechanism for relatively changing the angle of the imaging direction. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an inspection table capable of capturing images of the barcodes of a plurality of products using an imaging device. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of an inspection device and an inspection system using an inspection table according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the inspection table with some parts omitted. [Figure 4] FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of a mounting table and a tray of the inspection table. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of an inspection table according to another embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, an example of an inspection device 1 and an inspection system 2 using an inspection table 3 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0014] The inspection device 1 performs inspection processing by placing a tray 91 on which a plurality of products (goods) 90 to be inspected as shown in Fig. 5 are arranged on a placement table 12 of an inspection table 3 as shown in Fig. 1, and capturing an image of a barcode 90a such as a JAN code provided on the goods 90 with an imaging device 4. Here, inspection includes, for example, the process of inspecting, accounting or managing picked goods, and specific examples include incoming inspection, purchasing accounting and outgoing inspection.

[0015] The barcode 90a is not limited to a JAN code, and may be a code uniquely set by a company. The code of the product 90 may be a two-dimensional code such as a QR code (registered trademark) instead of the barcode 90a, which is a so-called one-dimensional code such as a JAN code, and the inspection device 1 may be configured to capture an image of this two-dimensional code with the imaging device 4 and perform the inspection process.

[0016] That is, the product 90 to be inspected by the inspection device 1 has a readable code 90a that can be imaged by the imaging device 4, and this code 90a may be a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code. Therefore, in the following description, a configuration in which the product 90 has a barcode 90a will be described, but the "barcode 90a" in the following description refers to various codes including one-dimensional codes and two-dimensional codes.

[0017] Such an inspection device 1 is installed in an inspection site within a building such as a retail store, a warehouse, a distribution center, etc. Specific examples of the inspection site include retail stores such as home appliance stores, department stores, general merchandise stores, and convenience stores, as well as corporate distribution centers and warehouses.

[0018] The inspection device 1 is connected to, for example, a network 200. The inspection device 1 is connected to a management server 100 via the network 200. A plurality of such inspection devices 1 may be provided within the same building, for example, or may be provided in different buildings.

[0019] For example, the inspection apparatus 1 is provided at a plurality of inspection sites, and each is connected to a management server 100 via a network 200. The management server 100 may be provided in the same building as the inspection apparatus 1, or in a different building. The inspection apparatus 1 obtains information for inspection processing from the management server 100, and transmits the results of the inspection processing to the management server 100. Such a plurality of inspection apparatuses 1 and management server 100 constitute an inspection system (management system) 2.

[0020] Here, the network 200 may be a LAN (Local Area Network) within a building, or may be the Internet or a VPN (Virtual Private Network). The network 200 connects the processing device 5 and the management server 100 to enable transmission and reception of information. Note that the inspection system 2 may be configured by directly connecting the processing device 5 and the management server 100 without using the network 200.

[0021] Such an inspection system 2 is used, for example, in a retail store when receiving products from a manufacturer or sales company, by performing incoming inspection and purchasing accounting for each product, and for receiving and inventory management, etc. Also, the inspection system 2 is used in a retail store, for example, a warehouse or distribution center, for shipping inspection and inventory management, whereby when picking up products are shipped, there are confirmed errors between the shipping request information and the picked products.

[0022] 1, the inspection device 1 includes an inspection table 3, an imaging device 4, and a processing device 5. The inspection device 1 captures images of commodities (products) 90, which are multiple objects to be photographed, on a tray 91 arranged on the inspection table 3, with the imaging device 4, and processes the captured image data to read barcodes 90a of the multiple commodities 90.

[0023] 1 to 4, the inspection table 3 includes a frame 11, a mounting table 12, a moving mechanism 13, and a blackout curtain 14. For example, when a tray 91 on which products 90 are arranged is placed on the mounting table 12 and the tray 91 including the products 90 is imaged by the imaging device 4, the inspection table 3 rotates the mounting table 12 within a predetermined angle range by the moving mechanism 13 to change the inclination angle, thereby inclining the products 90 with respect to the imaging direction of the imaging device 4. Note that the inspection table 3 may be configured such that the products 90 are placed directly on the mounting table 12, rather than the tray 91 on which products are arranged being placed on the mounting table 12.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 3, the frame 11 includes, for example, a rectangular frame main body 21, a plurality of casters 22 provided on the underside of the frame main body 21, a mounting section 23 for placing various devices, a support section 24 for supporting the mounting base 12, and a fixing section 25 for fixing the imaging device 4.

[0025] The frame body 21 is formed, for example, by combining metal pipes. The frame body 21 is, for example, a framework on which the blackout curtain 14 is placed. The shape of the frame body 21 can be appropriately set as long as the support parts 24 can support the mounting table 12 and the imaging device 4. A plurality of casters 22 enable the frame 11 to be movable.

[0026] The mounting section 23 is formed, for example, by a panel provided on the lower part of the frame main body 21. The mounting section 23 forms an arrangement space in which, for example, a part of the moving mechanism 13, a part of the imaging device 4, a part of the processing device 5, etc. are arranged.

[0027] The support section 24 supports the mounting table 12 so that it can rotate (tilt). For example, the support section 24 supports the mounting table 12 so that it can rotate around the front side of the frame main body 21 of the mounting table 12 as the center of rotation. The center of rotation of the mounting table 12 is not limited to the front side, and is set appropriately in consideration of workability and the like. In this embodiment, since an operator works in front of the frame main body 21 and places and removes the tray 91 from the front side on the mounting table 12, it is preferable that the support section 24 is inclined toward the front. The height of the support section 24 is set to a height that is favorable for the operator's workability, such as making it easy for the operator to place and remove the tray 91.

[0028] The fixing part 25 fixes the imaging device 4. For example, the fixing part 25 is formed in a rod or plate shape, and is provided, for example, across the left-right direction on the upper part of the frame main body 21. The fixing part 25 is formed so that the imaging device 4 can be attached directly by a fastening member, or indirectly by using a member interposed therebetween.

[0029] The mounting table 12 is formed so that the tray 91 can be placed thereon. Also, for example, the mounting table 12 is formed so that the product 90 can be directly placed thereon. For example, the mounting table 12 is rotatably fixed to the support portion 24. The mounting table 12 is formed so that the tray 91 can be positioned and arranged at a predetermined position on the upper surface. As a specific example, as shown in FIG. 5, the mounting table 12 is formed in a flat plate shape and has a plurality of guide pieces 12a on its upper surface that abut against the side surfaces of the tray 91 at multiple positions.

[0030] The moving mechanism 13 rotates the mounting table 12 and the imaging device 4 relatively with respect to the imaging direction of the imaging device 4. The moving mechanism 13 relatively changes the angle between the upper surface of the mounting table 12 and the imaging direction of the imaging device 4. As a specific example, the moving mechanism 13 rotates the mounting table 12 with respect to the support part 24 within an angle range from an initial position to a predetermined angle θ. The moving mechanism 13 automatically rotates the mounting table 12 based on a command input by an operator's operation, or converts the operator's operation into rotation of the mounting table 12 to manually rotate the mounting table 12. Such a moving mechanism 13 is formed so as to be able to change the imaging direction of the imaging device 4 that images the tray 91 with respect to the barcode 90a of the product 90 placed on the tray 91.

[0031] In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the moving mechanism 13 automatically rotates the mounting table 12 based on a command from an operator. For example, the moving mechanism 13, together with the support unit 24, tilts the mounting table 12 toward the front of the frame 11, which is the side where the operator works. That is, the moving mechanism 13 and the support unit 24 rotate (tilt) the mounting table 12 by moving the rear of the mounting table 12 in the vertical direction around the front of the mounting table 12 as the center of rotation.

[0032] 4, the movement mechanism 13 includes, for example, a motor 31, a gear head 32, a transmission member 33, an operation box 34, and a control box 35. The motor 31, the gear head 32, and the transmission member 33 form a drive unit, and the gear head 32 and the transmission member 33 form a transmission mechanism that causes the rotation of the motor 31 to rotate the mounting table 12 within a predetermined angle range in the vertical direction.

[0033] The motor 31 is driven by power supplied from the control box 35. The motor 31 has a rotating shaft.

[0034] The gear head 32 is connected to, for example, a rotating shaft of the motor 31, and reduces the rotation speed of the motor 31 and amplifies the torque.

[0035] The transmission member 33 is connected to, for example, the gear head 32. The transmission member 33 is connected to, for example, a rotating shaft of the gear head 32, and rotates to rotate the mounting table 12 within a predetermined angle range. Here, the predetermined angle θ is an angle between the initial position of the mounting table 12 and the maximum rotation position of the mounting table 12. Note that the upper surface of the mounting table 12 in the initial position is, for example, along the horizontal direction. Also, the maximum rotation position is, for example, a position that is 3° to 5° from the initial position, assuming that the initial position of the mounting table 12 is 0°. The predetermined angle θ may be a value other than 3° to 5°.

[0036] That is, the predetermined angle θ includes an inclination angle of the placement table 12 at which the tray 91 and the products placed on the tray 91 do not move, and an inclination angle at which the barcodes 90a of all the products 90 can be imaged by the imaging device 4 by changing the angle even if the irradiated light is reflected by the products 90. Note that the inclination angle of the tray 91 at which the tray 91 and the products placed on the tray 91 do not move may be an inclination angle at which the tray 91 and the products 90 do not move when no anti-slip or guide is used to prevent the tray 91 and the products 90 from moving, or, in the case where an anti-slip or guide is used to prevent the tray 91 and the products 90 from moving, an inclination angle at which the tray 91 and the products 90 do not move by using the anti-slip or guide. The predetermined angle θ can be appropriately set according to the positional relationship between the tray 91 and the imaging device 4, the performance of the imaging device 4, the material of the tray 91 and the products 90, and the like.

[0037] The operation box 34 has one or more operation buttons 34a. The operation box 34 outputs a signal when the operation button 34a is operated by an operator. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the operation box 34 has three operation buttons 34a. For example, the three operation buttons 34a output signals corresponding to three commands of starting, stopping, and emergency stopping the motor 31 when operated. Note that the input of the operation may not be performed by the operation box 34, but may be configured to input the command by, for example, the input unit 51 of the processing device 5. Also, although an example is shown in which the operation box 34 is fixed to the frame 11, the operation box 34 and the input unit 51 may be configured to be movable with respect to the frame 11, or may be separate.

[0038] The control box 35 includes, for example, a control panel, a breaker, a relay, etc. The control box 35 is connected to the motor 31 and an interface 54 (described later) of the processing device 5. The control box 35 drives the motor 31 at a predetermined rotation speed and stops it based on the operation of the operation box 34.

[0039] The moving mechanism 13 configured in this manner changes the inclination angle of the mounting table 12 by moving the mounting table 12 back and forth within a predetermined angle range (e.g., a range from 0° to 5°) during a predetermined time period (e.g., 4 seconds) during which the imaging device 4 takes continuous shots to acquire multiple image data.

[0040] The blackout curtain 14 is provided on the frame main body 21. The blackout curtain 14 covers at least the upper part of the tray 91 placed on the placement table 12. The blackout curtain 14 covers, for example, the sides, rear, and upper part of the frame main body 21. Also, the blackout curtain 14 covers, for example, the front part of the frame main body 21 where the worker works, to a height position where the tray 91 can be moved to and from the placement table 12 and where light from external fluorescent lights or the like can be blocked from the products 90 placed on the placement table 12. The blackout curtain 14 may be configured so that the light blocking height position can be adjusted.

[0041] The imaging device 4 captures an image of the top of the mounting table 12. As a specific example, the imaging device 4 captures an image of a tray 91 placed on the mounting table 12, and outputs image data of barcodes 90a provided on multiple products 90 arranged on the tray 91 to the processing device 5. The imaging device 4 is a barcode reader capable of capturing an image of the barcode 90a.

[0042] The imaging device 4 captures an image based on a command from the processing device 5. The imaging device 4 can capture an image of a predetermined range. The imaging device 4 may have a focus adjustment function such as adjusting the focus when capturing an image of a predetermined range, and an exposure adjustment function that can adjust an aperture value and a shutter speed. For example, the imaging device 4 includes a camera and a light emitting unit that is a light source. The light emitting unit irradiates light onto the tray 91 (the mounting table 12) intermittently or continuously, for example. That is, the light emitting unit may irradiate light at each image capture when the imaging device 4 captures images multiple times, or may continue to irradiate light while the imaging device 4 captures images multiple times. Here, the light emitting unit is, for example, a so-called flash or strobe, and irradiates light onto the tray 91 when capturing images.

[0043] Such an imaging device 4 is connected to the processing device 5 via the interface 54. Based on a command from the processing device 5, the imaging device 4 irradiates light onto the tray 91 using a light emitting unit and captures an image of the tray 91 in the mounting table 12. The imaging device 4 also outputs the captured image data to the processing device 5. The imaging device 4 may be configured to process the captured image data, read the data of the barcode 90a, and output the read barcode 90a to the processing device 5. That is, the imaging device 4 may be configured as appropriate as long as it can capture an image of a plurality of products 90 on the tray 91 and output image data capturing the plurality of barcodes 90a.

[0044] Furthermore, the imaging device 4 may have a configuration including a storage unit that stores imaging conditions and a control unit that controls the camera. That is, the imaging device 4 may have imaging conditions stored in advance in the storage unit, and when an imaging command is input from the processing device 5, the control unit controls the camera based on the imaging conditions to capture an image of the tray 91.

[0045] 1, the processing device 5 includes, for example, an input unit 51, a display unit 52, a communication unit 53, an interface 54, a storage unit 55, and a control unit 56. For example, the processing device 5 may be a personal computer, a tablet terminal, a mobile terminal, a terminal dedicated to image capture and image processing, or other terminals. The processing device 5 may also be configured by combining multiple devices, such as using a personal computer and a tablet terminal in combination.

[0046] The input unit 51 is a device that accepts user input, such as an operation panel including buttons, a touch panel, a keyboard, a mouse, etc. The input unit 51 may also constitute an operation unit that inputs a drive command for the movement mechanism 13.

[0047] The display unit 52 is, for example, a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display.

[0048] The communication unit 53 is an arbitrary communication interface that is controlled by the control unit 56 and can communicate with the management server 100 via the network 200 using wired communication technology or wireless communication technology. Note that the communication unit 53 may be configured to be directly connected to the management server 100 without going through the network 200.

[0049] The communication unit 53 may be implemented as, for example, a communication module or a communication board, etc. As a specific example, the communication unit 53 is connected to the network 200 via a base station using, for example, a short-range wireless communication technology such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or a long-range wireless communication technology such as a general-purpose wireless communication technology including a mobile phone line such as LTE (Long Term Evolution) (registered trademark).

[0050] The interface 54 is a terminal or a circuit that can be connected to an external device. For example, the interface 54 is connected to the imaging device 4. When the moving mechanism 13 is configured to rotate the mounting table 12 by the motor 31, the interface 54 is connected to the control box 35 of the moving mechanism 13.

[0051] The storage unit 55 is a so-called memory or storage. The storage unit 55 stores various data. For example, the storage unit 55 stores various control programs and control data. The storage unit 55 stores data for inspection processing, such as a product master, which is information on the products to be inspected. The storage unit 55 also stores image data captured by the imaging device 4. The storage unit 55 stores information on the barcode 90a and the product 90 acquired by processing the image data. The storage unit 55 temporarily stores data being processed by the control unit 56. The storage unit 55 stores setting values ​​required for the execution of application programs as a database. The storage unit 55 also stores the execution results of the application programs, and the like.

[0052] Such a storage unit 55 includes, for example, an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) (registered trademark), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a NAND type flash memory, an SSD (Solid State Drive), and the like.

[0053] The control unit 56 is a processor having a processing circuit. The processor of the control unit 56 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor may be a FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or other general-purpose or dedicated processor. The single or multiple processors are mounted on a circuit board such as a motherboard or a graphics board.

[0054] The control unit 56 performs various functions such as imaging processing of the imaging device 4, image processing of the captured image data, reading processing of the barcode 90a of the image data, inspection (accounting) processing based on the read information and the product master, and display processing for displaying information on various processes on the display unit 52, in accordance with, for example, a control program and control data stored in the storage unit 55. The control unit 56 may be configured not to execute various functions such as imaging processing, image processing, reading processing, and inspection (accounting) processing, but to only perform a transmission process for transmitting commands and various data for executing the functions to the management server 100.

[0055] The management server 100 includes a communication unit 153, a storage unit 155, and a control unit 156. For example, the processing device 5 may have an input unit, a display unit, an interface, and the like. The management server 100 may have the same configuration as the processing device 5. For example, the management server 100 constitutes a WMS (Warehouse Management System) that performs inventory management and the like.

[0056] The communication unit 153 is an arbitrary communication interface that is controlled by the control unit 156 and can communicate with the processing device 5 via the network 200 using a wired communication technique or a wireless communication technique. Note that the communication unit 153 may be configured to be directly connected to the processing device 5 without going through the network 200.

[0057] The communication unit 153 may be implemented as, for example, a communication module or a communication board, etc. As a specific example, the communication unit 153 is connected to the network 200 via a base station using, for example, a short-range wireless communication technology such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or a long-range wireless communication technology such as a general-purpose wireless communication technology including a mobile phone line such as LTE (Long Term Evolution).

[0058] The storage unit 155 is what is called a memory or storage. The storage unit 155 stores various data. For example, the storage unit 155 has a product master in which information on products to be inspected (accounted) is stored. The storage unit 155 stores various control programs and control data. The storage unit 55 stores data for inspection processing, such as a product master which is information on products to be inspected. The storage unit 55 also stores image data captured by the imaging device 4 and information on the inspection (accounted) processing by the processing device 5.

[0059] Such a storage unit 155 includes, for example, an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) (registered trademark), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a NAND type flash memory, an SSD (Solid State Drive), and the like.

[0060] The control unit 156 is a processor having a processing circuit. The processor of the control unit 156 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor may be a FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or other general-purpose or dedicated processor. The single or multiple processors are mounted on a circuit board such as a motherboard or a graphics board.

[0061] The control unit 156 controls the communication unit 153 to transmit the control program, control data, product master data, etc. stored in the storage unit 55 to the processing device 5 via the network 200. The control unit 156 also controls the communication unit 153 to receive various information processed by the processing device 5 and store it in the storage unit 155.

[0062] Next, a description will be given of a product inspection (accounting) process using the processing device 5 having the inspection table 3 configured as above. First, products (products) received from manufacturers or sales companies or products 90 picked based on arrival information or shipping request information are placed on a tray 91. At this time, the products 90 are placed on the tray 91 with the surface on which the barcode 90a is provided facing up, as shown in FIG.

[0063] The worker places the tray 91 on which the products 90 are placed on the placement table 12 from below the blackout curtain 14 in front of the frame main body 21. At this time, the tray 91 is guided by the multiple guide pieces 12a of the placement table 12 and placed at a predetermined imaging position.

[0064] Next, the operator operates the input unit 51 and / or the operation button 34a of the operation box 34 to input a command for the imaging device 4 to acquire image data.

[0065] For example, the moving mechanism 13 and the processing device 5 may be connected, and when a command to drive the motor 31 is input by operating the operation box 34, a signal is output to the processing device 5, and the control unit 56 executes the imaging process.

[0066] Also, for example, a configuration may be adopted in which the moving mechanism 13 and the processing device 5 are connected, and when a command to execute imaging processing is input by operating the input unit 51 of the processing device 5, a signal of the command is output to the control box 35, and the control box 35 executes drive control of the motor 31 based on the signal. Also, a configuration may be adopted in which the control box 35 is not provided, the motor 31 and the operation box 34 are connected to the interface 54, and the control unit 56 controls the drive of the motor 31 based on an output signal from the operation box 34.

[0067] When the imaging process starts and a drive command for the motor 31 is input, the motor 31 is driven and the mounting table 12 rotates within an angle range from the initial position to a predetermined angle θ. When the mounting table 12 rotates and the inclination angle changes, the angle of the top surface of the product 90 on the tray 91 placed on the mounting table 12 also changes. As a result, the angle of the top surface on which the barcode 90a of the product 90 is provided changes relative to the imaging direction by the imaging device 4. Thus, the imaging device 4 can capture images of the product 90 including the barcode 90a on the tray 91 at multiple angles.

[0068] The imaging device 4 transmits the captured image data to the processing device 5. The imaging device 4 may also perform image processing on the image data and transmit the processed data together with the image data to the processing device 5. The control unit 56 performs image processing on the received image data to read the barcodes 90a of the multiple products 90, reads information on the barcodes 90a from the product master stored in the storage unit 55, and performs inspection (accounting) processing. When image processing is performed by the imaging device 4, the control unit 56 does not need to perform image processing. Also, various types of inspection (accounting) processing can be set. Also, the control unit 56 displays the results of the inspection processing on the display unit 52. Also, the image processing and inspection processing may be performed by the management server 100 instead of the processing device 5.

[0069] When the inspection process of the products on the tray 91 placed on the placement table 12 or the reading of the barcode 90a is completed based on the information displayed on the display unit 52, the worker operates the input unit 51 to input a command to complete the process. When the control unit 56 receives the command to complete the process, it controls the communication unit 53 to transmit information to the management server 100.

[0070] After the processing is completed, the worker removes the tray 91 from the placement table 12 and places the tray 91 in a tray storage area for inspected trays. By repeating such operations, the inspection processing is performed.

[0071] According to the inspection table 3 configured in this manner, the imaging device 4 and the mounting table 12 can be tilted (rotated) relative to one another to change the angle of the top surface on which the barcodes 90a of the products 90 are formed with respect to the imaging direction (light irradiation direction). In this embodiment, the inspection table 3 changes the tilt angle of the mounting table 12 with respect to the imaging direction of the imaging device 4 and the tray 91. Thus, the inspection table 3 can cause the imaging device 4 to capture images of the barcodes 90a of the multiple products 90 while changing the reflection direction of the light irradiated by the light emitting unit of the imaging device 4. That is, by using the inspection table 3, the imaging device 4 can capture images of the barcodes 90a of the multiple products 90 on the tray 91 in multiple different attitudes (tilt angles) with respect to the imaging direction.

[0072] By reading the barcodes 90a using image data of products 90 in different positions, it is possible to prevent failure to read the barcodes 90a, such as when light reflection prevents the barcodes 90a from being read among multiple products 90. Even if the inspection table 3 is configured without the blackout curtain 14, it is possible to change the direction of reflection of light from fluorescent lamps or the like, and thus similarly prevent failure to read the barcodes 90a.

[0073] Therefore, the inspection table 3 can improve the accuracy of reading the barcode 90a. Also, an increase in labor hours due to failure to read the barcode 90a can be prevented. Furthermore, the barcodes 90a of multiple products 90 can be read in one image capture. The inspection table 3 can reduce the work time (man-hours) and labor costs in the inspection process and accounting process. Also, the inspection table 3 can prevent inspection errors and product management errors due to failure to read the barcode 90a.

[0074] Furthermore, the inspection table 3 can read barcodes 90a of multiple products 90 from image data captured on a tray 91 placed on the placement table 12. Therefore, by using the inspection table 3, the processing device 5 and management server 100 can also link information on multiple products 90 read from the same image data as a group.

[0075] As described above, according to the inspection table 3 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the placement table 12 and the imaging device 4 can capture images of the barcodes of a plurality of products in the imaging direction.

[0076] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment. For example, in the above-described example, the configuration in which the mounting table 12 is rotated (tilted) in order to change the angle of the upper surface of the product 90 on which the barcode 90a is formed with respect to the imaging direction (light irradiation direction) has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the inspection table 3 may be configured to be able to change the tilt angle of the imaging device 4 by rotating (tilting) the imaging device 4 by the moving mechanism 13 without rotating (tilting) the mounting table 12. Also, the inspection table 3 may be configured to be able to change the tilt angles of the mounting table 12 and the imaging device 4 by rotating (tilting) both the mounting table 12 and the imaging device 4.

[0077] In the above example, the tilt (rotation) of the mounting table 12 by the moving mechanism 13 is performed by the motor 31, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as in the inspection table 3 according to another embodiment shown in Fig. 6, the moving mechanism 13A that tilts the mounting table 12 may be configured to move the mounting table 12 by operation of an operator.

[0078] For example, such a moving mechanism 13A includes an operating unit 81 operated by an operator, and a transmission mechanism 82 that transmits the operation of the operating unit 81 to tilt (rotate) the platform 12. For example, the operating unit 81 is a pedal that is stepped on by the foot. When the operating unit (pedal) 81 is operated, the transmission mechanism 82 rotates or moves and pushes up the rear of the platform 12. The platform 12 tilts as the transmission mechanism 82 pushes up. Furthermore, when the operation of the operating unit (pedal) 81 is released, the transmission mechanism 82 returns to its initial position, and the platform 12 moves to its initial position.

[0079] In the moving mechanism 13A having such a configuration, for example, before the imaging device 4 starts capturing images, the operation unit 81 is not operated as shown in ST1 of Fig. 7. Then, when the imaging device 4 starts capturing images, the operator operates the operation unit 81 by stepping on it as shown in ST2 of Fig. 7. The operation of the operation unit 81 moves the transmission mechanism 82, causing the mounting table 12 to tilt.

[0080] Then, when the operator removes his / her foot from the operation unit 81, the operation of the operation unit 81 is released, as shown in ST3 of Fig. 7. In this manner, the movement mechanism 13A can be operated by the operator to manually tilt the mounting table 12. Even when such a movement mechanism 13A is used, the inspection table 3 can change the tilt angle of the barcode 90a of the product 90 with respect to the imaging direction, similar to the movement mechanism 13 described above.

[0081] Further, the inspection table 3 described above has a configuration including the blackout curtain 14, but may have a configuration without the blackout curtain 14. Further, the inspection table 3 may have a configuration in which the frame body 21 has a light-shielding member such as a light-shielding panel instead of the blackout curtain 14.

[0082] In addition, as the above example, the moving mechanism 13 has been described as having the motor 31 as a driving unit, but the driving unit is not limited to the motor 31, and an air cylinder, a compressor, or the like may be used, or other configurations may be used. In other words, the configuration of the moving mechanism 13 can be appropriately set as long as it is possible to drive the mounting table 12 based on a drive command.

[0083] The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, and can be modified in various ways without departing from the gist of the present invention. The embodiments may be combined as appropriate, and in that case, the combined effect can be obtained. Furthermore, the above-mentioned embodiment includes various inventions, and various inventions can be extracted by combinations selected from the multiple components disclosed. For example, if the problem can be solved and the effect can be obtained even if some components are deleted from all the components shown in the embodiment, the configuration from which the components are deleted can be extracted as an invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0084] 1...inspection device, 2...inspection system (management system), 3...inspection table, 4...imaging device, 5...processing device, 11...frame, 12...mounting table, 12a...guide piece, 13, 13A...moving mechanism, 14...blackout curtain, 21...frame body, 22...caster, 23...mounting section, 24...support section, 25...fixing section, 31...motor, 32...gear head, 33...transmission member, 34...operation box, 34a...operation button, 35...control box, 51...input section, 52...display section, 53...communication section, 54...interface, 55...memory section, 56...control section, 81...operation section (pedal), 81...operation section, 82...transmission mechanism, 90...product (goods), 90a...barcode (code), 91...tray, 100...management server, 153...communication section, 155...memory section, 156...control section, 200...network.

Claims

1. a placement table on which a tray on which a plurality of coded products are arranged with the codes facing upwards can be placed; a frame that rotatably supports the mounting table so that an angle of an imaging direction of an imaging device that images an upper surface of the mounting table and the surface of the mounting table can be relatively changed, and the imaging device can be disposed above the mounting table; a moving mechanism that relatively changes an angle between an upper surface of the mounting table and the imaging direction of the imaging device; An inspection table equipped with

2. The inspection table according to claim 1 , wherein the movement mechanism changes an inclination angle of the placement table.

3. The inspection table according to claim 1 , wherein the moving mechanism changes an inclination angle of the placement table and the imaging device.

4. 4. The inspection table according to claim 2, wherein the movement mechanism tilts the placement table to a side of the frame where an operator works.

5. The inspection table according to claim 1 , wherein the moving mechanism changes an inclination angle of the imaging device.

6. The inspection table according to claim 1 , wherein the moving mechanism includes an operation unit and a drive unit that drives the placement table in response to an operation of the operation unit.

7. 7. The inspection table according to claim 6, wherein the drive unit includes: a motor that rotates in response to operation of the operation unit; a transmission mechanism that tilts the stage in response to the rotation of the motor; and a control unit that controls the rotation of the motor.

8. The inspection table according to claim 6 , wherein the drive unit has a transmission mechanism that converts an operation of the operation unit by an operator into an inclination of the placement table.

9. the operating unit is a pedal that is operated by an operator, The inspection table according to claim 8 , wherein the transmission mechanism converts operation of the pedal into tilting of the placement table.

10. The inspection table according to claim 1 , further comprising a blackout curtain provided on the frame and covering at least an upper portion of the placement table.

11. The inspection table according to claim 1 , wherein the imaging device has a light emitting unit that irradiates light toward the tray.

Images