Measurement system, measurement method, and food manufacturing method

Abstract

To provide a measurement system capable of making the system scale smaller, a measurement method, and a food manufacturing method.SOLUTION: The measurement system includes n hoppers, into which objects are fed, a first measurement unit that measures at least one of the number and weight of first articles input to each hopper, a second measurement unit that measures the weight of the objects fed on each of the hoppers, and a control unit that controls the measurement system. The control unit has a calculation unit that selects a combination of m hoppers on the basis of the measured values measured on the first measurement unit and the measured values measured on the second measurement unit. The calculation unit selects a combination of m hoppers so that at least one of the total number and the total weight of the first article included in the m hoppers and the total weight of the objects included in the m hoppers, are each within a predetermined range.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a measurement system, a measurement method, and a food manufacturing method.

Background Art

[0002] A measurement system for measuring the weight or the like of an object in which a plurality of articles are mixed is known (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a measurement system, a measurement method, and a food manufacturing method capable of reducing the size of a system scale when combinatorially measuring an object in which a plurality of articles are mixed.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a measurement system for measuring an object in which a first article and a second article are mixed, comprising: n (n is a natural number of 3 or more) hoppers into which the object is fed; a first measurement unit that measures at least one of the number and weight of the first article fed into each hopper; a second measurement unit that measures the weight of the object fed into each hopper; and a control unit that controls the measurement system, wherein the control unit has a calculation unit that selects a combination of m (m is a natural number satisfying n>m>1) hoppers based on the measurement values ​​measured by the first measurement unit and the measurement values ​​measured by the second measurement unit, and the calculation unit selects a combination of m hoppers such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first article contained in the m hoppers, and the total weight of the object contained in the m hoppers, are within a predetermined range.

[0006] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a measurement system for measuring an object in which a first article and a second article are mixed, comprising: n (n is a natural number of 3 or more) hoppers into which the object is fed; a first measurement unit that measures at least one of the number and weight of the first article fed into each of the hoppers; a third measurement unit that measures at least one of the number and weight of the second article fed into each of the hoppers; and a control unit that controls the measurement system, wherein the control unit has a calculation unit that selects a combination of m (m is a natural number satisfying n>m>1) hoppers based on the measurement values ​​measured by the first measurement unit and the measurement values ​​measured by the third measurement unit, and the calculation unit selects a combination of m hoppers such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first article contained in the m hoppers, and at least one of the total number and total weight of the second article contained in the m hoppers, are within a predetermined range.

[0007] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a measurement method for measuring an object in which a first article and a second article are mixed, comprising the steps of: an input feeder inputting the object into n (where n is a natural number of 3 or more) hoppers; a first measurement unit measuring at least one of the number and weight of the first article input into each hopper; a second measurement unit measuring the weight of the object input into each hopper; and a calculation unit selecting a combination of m (where m is a natural number satisfying n>m>1) hoppers based on the measurement values ​​measured by the first measurement unit and the measurement values ​​measured by the second measurement unit, wherein the calculation unit selects the combination of m hoppers such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first article contained in the m hoppers, and the total weight of the object contained in the m hoppers, are within a predetermined range.

[0008] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a measurement method for measuring an object in which a first article and a second article are mixed, comprising the steps of: an input feeder inputting the object into n (where n is a natural number of 3 or more) hoppers; a first measurement unit measuring at least one of the number and weight of the first article input into each of the hoppers; a third measurement unit measuring at least one of the number and weight of the second article input into each of the hoppers; and a calculation unit selecting a combination of m (where m is a natural number satisfying n>m>1) hoppers based on the measurement values ​​measured by the first measurement unit, wherein the calculation unit selects the combination of m hoppers such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first article contained in the m hoppers, and at least one of the total number and total weight of the second article contained in the m hoppers, are within a predetermined range. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, it is possible to miniaturize a measurement system that measures objects composed of a mixture of multiple items. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic front view showing a measurement system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic plan view showing a measurement system according to one embodiment. [Figure 3A] Figure 3A is a block diagram showing the control unit of a measurement system according to one embodiment. [Figure 3B] Figure 3B is a block diagram showing another example of the control unit of a measurement system according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 illustrates a measurement method according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing a food manufacturing method according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing a measurement method according to one embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing a measurement method according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the measurement method according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Figures 1 to 7 are diagrams illustrating one embodiment. The following figures are schematic representations. Therefore, the size and shape of each part are exaggerated as appropriate to facilitate understanding. Furthermore, it is possible to implement the invention with appropriate modifications without departing from the technical concept. In the following figures, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and some detailed explanations may be omitted. In addition, the numerical values ​​such as dimensions and material names of each component described in this specification are examples of embodiments and are not limited thereto; they can be selected and used as appropriate. In this specification, terms that specify shapes and geometric conditions, such as parallel, orthogonal, and perpendicular, are used not only in their strict sense but also to include substantially the same conditions.

[0012] The measurement system 1 disclosed herein is a system for measuring an object G (see Figure 4) which is a mixture of a first item g1 (see Figure 4) and a second item g2 (see Figure 4) which is different from the first item g1. The object G may contain a mixture of three or more different items.

[0013] The first item g1 and the second item g2 may be food products. In this case, the specific type of food product is not particularly limited. Therefore, the food product may include one or more of the following: vegetables such as carrots, cabbage or lettuce; eggs; seafood such as shrimp; meat; beans; fruits; or grains such as rice or wheat flour. In this case, the object G may be fried rice, a hamburger with carrots, a mixed salad, or a sweets product. In particular, the object G may be processed after the first item g1 and the second item g2 are mixed in the measurement system 1, prior to the combined measurement (combined weighing) stage. That is, the object G, which is a mixture of the first item g1 and the second item g2 and has been processed, may be supplied to the measurement system 1. For example, if the object G is fried rice, the object G may be subjected to stirring and heating after the first item g1 and the second item g2 are mixed. This allows, for example, the flavor of fried rice as the object G to be blended.

[0014] Also, the first article g1 and the second article g2 may be other than food. When the first article g1 and the second article g2 are other than food, the object G may be a package containing bolts and nuts, resin pellets, fertilizer, compost, feed, soap, bulbs, or the like.

[0015] Here, when the object G is a product such as fried rice, in which a large number of loose grains of rice are mixed with ingredients such as char siu, the weight of the object G is so-called combined weighed. That is, the weight of the object G is measured in a state where the rice (for example, the second article g2) and the ingredients (for example, the first article g1) are mixed. In this case, for example, the weight and number of ingredients contained in a predetermined amount of rice or a predetermined amount of fried rice may be uneven among products. Therefore, in order to prevent the occurrence of products with a small weight and number of ingredients, the ingredients may be mixed in a larger amount with respect to a predetermined amount of rice in advance. Usually, such ingredients are more costly than rice. Therefore, the manufacturing cost of food may increase.

[0016] A plurality of objects G are produced by combined weighing. In order to eliminate the deviation in the weight and number of the first article g1 among these objects G, the first article g1 and the second article g2 may be measured separately. In this case, since the first article g1 and the second article g2 are measured in separate systems, two systems are required, and there is a high possibility that the system will become large-sized. Also, as another example, when the existing measuring equipment has only one system for measuring the first article g1, new measuring equipment (the second system) for measuring the second article g2 is required, and the equipment cost may increase.

[0017] Also, in some cases, the object G is a product such as fried rice, in which the taste of the product can be improved by processing after mixing the rice (for example, the second article g2) and the ingredients (for example, the first article g1). In this case, it is preferable that the weight and the like of the first article g1 can be measured in a state where the first article g1 and the second article g2 are mixed.

[0018] Measurement system Next, a measurement system 1 according to one embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a schematic front view showing the measurement system according to one embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic top view showing the measurement system according to one embodiment.

[0019] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the measurement system 1 comprises n (n is a natural number of 3 or more) weighing hoppers 11 into which the object G is fed, a first measuring unit 31 that measures the number and / or weight of the first item g1, and a control unit 40 that controls the measurement system 1. The measurement system 1 may also include a second measuring unit 32 that measures the weight of the object G fed into each weighing hopper 11. The measurement system 1 may further include n input feeders 17 that feed the object G into each weighing hopper 11 via a pool hopper 12, and a distribution feeder 16 that supplies the object G supplied from outside the measurement system 1 to each input feeder 17. Furthermore, the measurement system 1 may further include a discharge unit 20 located downstream of the weighing hoppers 11. Of these, the hoppers 11, input feeders 17, distribution feeders 16, and discharge unit 20 are incorporated into a distribution device 10. Here, we will first describe the distributed device 10.

[0020] The dispersing device 10 is a device that disperses the object G into each weighing hopper 11. As described above, the dispersing device 10 has n weighing hoppers 11. The dispersing device 10 may also further have n input feeders 17 for feeding the object G into each weighing hopper 11, and a dispersing feeder 16 for supplying the object G fed into the dispersing device 10 to each input feeder 17. The dispersing device 10 may also further have a discharge section 20 provided downstream of the weighing hoppers 11.

[0021] The weighing hopper 11 of the distribution device 10 weighs the object G that is put into it. Each weighing hopper 11 is equipped with the second measuring unit 32 described above, which measures the weight of the object G. The second measuring unit 32 may be a weight sensor such as a load cell.

[0022] The number (n) of weighing hoppers 11 included in the dispersing device 10 is not particularly limited, as long as it is a natural number of 3 or more (n≧3). For example, the dispersing device 10 may have 14 weighing hoppers 11 (n=14).

[0023] Above (upstream of) this weighing hopper 11, a pool hopper 12 is provided into which the object G is fed from the input feeder 17. The pool hopper 12 temporarily holds the object G. The number of pool hoppers 12 may be the same as the number of weighing hoppers 11, and one pool hopper 12 may be placed at each position corresponding to each weighing hopper 11.

[0024] The weighing hopper 11 and the pool hopper 12 are each mounted around the base 13 of the dispersion device 10.

[0025] Next, the distribution feeder 16 of the distribution device 10 will be described. The distribution feeder 16 plays the role of distributing the object G that has been fed into the distribution device 10 to each of the input feeders 17. The object G is supplied to the distribution feeder 16 from a supply device (not shown). The distribution feeder 16 may also have a conical shape, and may be configured to vibrate, thereby distributing the object G radially. Downstream of the distribution feeder 16, n input feeders 17 are provided.

[0026] n input feeders 17 are provided around the distribution feeder 16. The input feeders 17 feed the object G, which has been dispersed by the distribution feeder 16, into the weighing hopper 11. The input feeders 17 are configured to feed the object G into the weighing hopper 11 via the pool hopper 12.

[0027] Furthermore, in a plan view of the measurement system 1 from above (see Figure 2), each input feeder 17 extends radially from the distribution feeder 16, and the input feeder 17 may be configured to vibrate, thereby feeding the object G into the pool hopper 12. In other words, the input feeder 17 may be configured to vibrate, causing the object G to fall from the input feeder 17 into the pool hopper 12. The number of these input feeders 17 is the same as the number of weighing hoppers 11, with one input feeder 17 positioned at each corresponding location to the weighing hopper 11.

[0028] The distribution feeder 16 and the input feeder 17 may each be attached to the upper part of the base 13.

[0029] Next, the discharge section 20 of the dispersion device 10 will be described. The discharge section 20 discharges the objects G in the m weighing hoppers 11 to the downstream side. This discharge section 20 has a roughly inverted truncated cone shape, and an opening 21 is formed at its lower end for sending the objects G to the downstream side. A packaging machine (not shown) may also be provided downstream of the opening 21, and the discharged objects G may be stored in a packaging container 5 (see Figure 1) by the packaging machine.

[0030] Here, a first measuring unit 31 and a third measuring unit 33 are provided near the input feeder 17 of the distribution device 10. The first measuring unit 31 measures at least one of the number and weight of the first item g1 that is fed into each weighing hopper 11. The third measuring unit 33 measures at least one of the number and weight of the second item g2 that is fed into each weighing hopper 11. In this embodiment, the measuring system 1 separately comprises a first measuring unit 31 for measuring the first item g1 and a third measuring unit 33 for measuring the second item g2. The configuration of the first measuring unit 31 and the configuration of the third measuring unit 33 may be substantially the same. For this reason, in the following description, only the first measuring unit 31 will be described, and the description of the third measuring unit 33 will be omitted. Although not shown in the figures, in another embodiment, the first measuring unit 31 may also serve as the third measuring unit 33, that is, the first measuring unit 31 may measure both the first item g1 and the second item g2.

[0031] Multiple first measurement units 31 may be provided. The first measurement unit 31 is connected to the control unit 40 and is configured to image the object G in response to instructions from the control unit 40. The first measurement unit 31 may also image the object G as it is fed from the input feeder 17 into the pool hopper 12. That is, the first measurement unit 31 may also image the object G as it falls from the input feeder 17. In this case, the first measurement unit 31 can acquire image data of the object G with minimal overlap between the first item g1 and the second item g2 of the object G. Therefore, the first item g1 and the second item g2 within the object G can be imaged more accurately. The first measurement unit 31 may also image the object G on the input feeder 17.

[0032] As such, a line camera or an area camera may be used as the first measurement unit 31. In particular, when the first measurement unit 31 images an object G falling from the input feeder 17, it is preferable to use a line camera as the first measurement unit 31. In this case, for example, a line camera (Teledyne DALSA, LA-GC-02K05B-00-R / LA-GC-04K05B-00-R) may be used as the first measurement unit 31. In this case, it is preferable to arrange one first measurement unit 31 near each input feeder 17 in order to image an object G falling from each input feeder 17.

[0033] On the other hand, when the first measurement unit 31 images an object G on the input feeder 17, it is preferable that an area camera be used as the first measurement unit 31. When the first measurement unit 31 is an area camera, multiple objects G on the input feeders 17 can be easily imaged by a single first measurement unit 31. In this case, for example, an area camera (Basler a2A1920-51gcPRO-Basler ace 2) may be used as the first measurement unit 31. In this case, it is preferable that all first items g1 and second items g2 on the input feeder 17 are in a state that can be identified by image processing.

[0034] Even when the first measurement unit 31 is imaging an object G falling from the input feeder 17, an area camera may be used as the first measurement unit 31. In this case, by using a camera with a high frame rate (for example, a high-speed camera) and setting the region of interest (ROI) near the entrances of multiple weighing hoppers 11, objects G falling from multiple input feeders 17 can be imaged simultaneously.

[0035] Furthermore, the first measurement unit 31 may be an ultraviolet camera, a near-infrared camera, an infrared camera, etc. In addition, depending on the type of object G, the first measurement unit 31 may be a special camera such as an X-ray sensor, a soft X-ray sensor, a 3D sensor, or a hyperspectral sensor. Another example of a special camera is a camera that uses terahertz waves.

[0036] Figure 3A is a functional block diagram of the control unit 40. As shown in Figure 3A, the control unit 40 includes a data receiving unit 41, an image processing unit 42, a measurement unit 43, a storage unit 44, a calculation unit 45, a hopper operating unit 46, and an operation control unit 49.

[0037] (Data receiving unit) The data receiving unit 41 receives data from the first measurement unit 31 and the second measurement unit 32. That is, the data acquired by the first measurement unit 31 and the second measurement unit 32 is transmitted to the control unit 40. The data receiving unit 41 then receives the data transmitted from each of the measurement units.

[0038] (Image processing unit) The image processing unit 42 identifies the first item g1 from the image data acquired by the first measurement unit 31. The image processing unit 42 may also identify the second item g2 from the image data acquired by the first measurement unit 31. In this case, the image processing unit 42 may be integrated with the first measurement unit 31, etc.

[0039] The method by which the image processing unit 42 processes image data is not particularly limited. For example, image processing may be performed by an object detection method using deep learning or by segmentation using deep learning. In this case, it is preferable to generate a predetermined trained network in advance by machine learning using images of the target object G as training images. Then, by performing inference using the generated network, the number and / or area of ​​the first item g1, etc., may be determined.

[0040] Furthermore, the image processing by the image processing unit 42 may be performed, for example, by binarization using a conventional image processing method. In this case, for example, first, a predetermined threshold for binarization is set from the image of the object G. Then, the luminance distribution information and shape information of the color or monochrome image acquired by the first measurement unit 31 are binarized using the predetermined threshold, and the number and / or area of ​​the first item g1, etc., may be determined by performing blob analysis or the like.

[0041] (Measurement part) The measuring unit 43 measures the number and weight of the first item g1, and the number and weight of the second item g2. The measuring unit 43 may also measure the number and / or weight of the first item g1, etc., from image data processed by the image processing unit 42. When the measuring unit 43 measures the weight of the first item g1, etc., it may calculate the area from the image data and convert the obtained area to weight. If the first measuring unit 31 is a 3D sensor, the measuring unit 43 may also convert the obtained volume to weight. The image processing unit 42 and the measuring unit 43 may be integrated with each other.

[0042] (Storage part) The memory unit 44 may be, for example, a RAM. The memory unit 44 stores information about the weight and quantity of the first item g1, etc., placed in each weighing hopper 11, linked together. That is, the memory unit 44 stores the quantity and weight of the first item g1 placed in each weighing hopper 11. The memory unit 44 also stores the weight of the object G placed in each weighing hopper 11. Furthermore, the memory unit 44 stores the quantity and weight of the second item g2 placed in each weighing hopper 11. For example, if the object G is fried rice, the memory unit 44 may also store the quantity, weight, and weight of the char siu and rice placed in each weighing hopper 11.

[0043] (calculation section) The calculation unit 45 selects m (where m is a natural number satisfying n>m>1) combinations of weighing hoppers 11 based on the measured values ​​measured by the first measuring unit 31 and the measured values ​​measured by the second measuring unit 32. In this case, the calculation unit 45 selects m combinations of weighing hoppers 11 such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first items g1 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, and the total weight of the objects G contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, are within a predetermined range. That is, the calculation unit 45 selects m combinations of weighing hoppers 11 such that the total weight of the objects G after combination is within a predetermined range relative to the target weight. In addition, the calculation unit 45 selects m combinations of weighing hoppers 11 such that the total number of first items g1 contained in the objects G after combination is within a predetermined range relative to the target number, or the total weight of the first items g1 is within a predetermined range relative to the target weight.

[0044] Furthermore, the calculation unit 45 selects m (where m is a natural number satisfying n>m>1) combinations of weighing hoppers 11 based on the measured values ​​measured by the first measurement unit 31. In this case, the calculation unit 45 selects m combinations of weighing hoppers 11 such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first items g1 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, and at least one of the total number and total weight of the second items g2 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, are within a predetermined range. That is, the calculation unit 45 selects m combinations of weighing hoppers 11 such that the total number of first items g1 contained in the combined object G is within a predetermined range relative to the target number, or the total weight of the first items g1 is within a predetermined range relative to the target weight. In addition, the calculation unit 45 selects m combinations of weighing hoppers 11 such that the total number of second items g2 contained in the combined object G is within a predetermined range relative to the target number, or the total weight of the second items g2 is within a predetermined range relative to the target weight.

[0045] As described above, the memory unit 44 stores information about the weight and quantity of each first item g1, etc., placed in each weighing hopper 11, linked together. Therefore, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 as follows, based on the information about the weight and quantity of the first item g1, etc., stored in the memory unit 44.

[0046] For example, let's consider the case where the dispersing device 10 has 14 weighing hoppers 11. If we select two weighing hoppers 11 from the 14 weighing hoppers 11, there are 91 possible combinations of weighing hoppers 11. 14 C2). Also, when selecting 3 weighing hoppers 11 from 14 weighing hoppers 11, there are 364 possible combinations of weighing hoppers 11. 14 C3). Furthermore, when selecting 4 weighing hoppers 11 from 14 weighing hoppers 11, there are 1001 possible combinations of weighing hoppers 11. 14 C4). For example, if m is between 2 and 4, there are 1456 possible combinations. 14 C2+ 14 C3+ 14 C4).

[0047] In this case, the calculation unit 45 first excludes from the 1456 possible combinations any combinations in which the total weight does not fall within a predetermined range, and any combinations in which the total number of items does not fall within a predetermined range, from the list of candidates for selection.

[0048] Next, the calculation unit 45 ranks the remaining combinations. The ranking may be based on the accuracy of the total weight. Then, the calculation unit 45 selects the combination with the highest rank. In this way, the calculation unit 45 selects m weighing hoppers 11.

[0049] Subsequently, the hopper operation unit 46 of the control unit 40 dispenses the selected object G from the weighing hopper 11 into the discharge unit 20.

[0050] In the above-described embodiment, in order to perform combined weighing, the control unit 40 instructed the first measurement unit 31 to perform measurement and received measurement data from the first measurement unit 31. The control unit 40 then processed this measurement data as an image to calculate the number and / or weight of the first item g1, etc. However, the scope of the rights is not limited to this embodiment. For example, in another embodiment, the control unit 40 may have a main control unit and a control unit for the measurement unit.

[0051] Figure 3B is a functional block diagram of the control unit 40 according to another embodiment. As shown in Figure 3B, the control unit 40 has a main control unit 40A and a control unit 40B for the measurement unit.

[0052] The main control unit 40A may instruct the measurement unit control unit 40B to perform measurements and may receive quantity data or weight data calculated based on the measurement data from the measurement unit control unit 40B. The main control unit 40A may also include a first control unit 47 that controls the measurement unit control unit 40B, the storage unit 44 described above, the calculation unit 45 described above, a hopper operation unit 46 described later, and an operation control unit 49 described later.

[0053] The measurement unit control unit 40B is a control unit that locally controls the first measurement unit 31 and / or the third measurement unit 33. This measurement unit control unit 40B may use the first measurement unit 31, etc. to acquire an image of the target object G, process the image, and measure the number and / or weight of the first item g1, etc. The measurement unit control unit 40B may then transmit the calculated number data or weight data to the main control unit 40A. The measurement unit control unit 40B may also include a second control unit 48 that controls the first measurement unit 31 and the third measurement unit 33, the image processing unit 42 described above, and the measurement unit 43 described above. One measurement unit control unit 40B may control multiple first measurement units 31, etc. Furthermore, the measurement system 1 may have the same number of measurement unit control units 40B as there are first measurement units 31 and third measurement units 33.

[0054] Furthermore, ranking may be based on the accuracy of the total number of items. Also, weighing hoppers 11 that are not selected by the calculation unit 45 many times will have a longer waiting time due to a higher number of waiting times. In this case, for example, the calculation unit 45 may prioritize selecting combinations that include weighing hoppers 11 with long waiting times. Moreover, it is not always the case that the target object G is placed in the 14 weighing hoppers 11. For this reason, the calculation unit 45 may determine a predetermined combination from the remaining weighing hoppers 11, excluding empty weighing hoppers 11 that do not contain the target object G.

[0055] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating a measurement method according to one embodiment. Below, an example of a combination of weighing hoppers 11 that the calculation unit 45 can select will be explained with reference to Figure 4. Here, an example will be described in which the calculation unit 45 selects a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 from 10 weighing hoppers 11 (weighing hoppers 11a to 11j). The calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 based on the first item g1 and the object G. Alternatively, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 based on the first item g1 and the second item g2. Here, first, an example will be described in which the calculation unit 45 selects a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 based on the first item g1 and the object G.

[0056] <Selection based on item g1 and object G> The calculation unit 45 may, for example, select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 based on the number and weight of the first item g1, and the weight of the object G.

[0057] In other words, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that the total number of first items g1 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11 and the total weight of the objects G contained in the m weighing hoppers 11 are within a predetermined range. For example, as shown in Figure 4, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination from 10 weighing hoppers 11 (weighing hoppers 11a to 11j) such that the total number of first items g1 is between 2 and 4, and the total weight of the objects G is between 500g and 600g. In this case, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of 2 weighing hoppers 11 (m=2). Specifically, the calculation unit 45 may select, for example, a combination of weighing hopper 11a and weighing hopper 11b. In this case, the total number of first items g1 will be 4, and the total weight of the objects G will be 500g. In the illustrated example, a combination of two weighing hoppers 11 (m=2) may be selected. However, it is not limited to this; for example, if there are 10 weighing hoppers 11, a combination of 3 to 9 weighing hoppers 11 may be selected. In this way, when the calculation unit 45 selects a combination of weighing hoppers 11 such that the total number of first items g1 after combination and the total weight of the target objects G after combination are within a predetermined range, the target objects G may be fried rice, and the first items g1 may be ingredients such as char siu. When the calculation unit 45 selects a combination such that the total weight of the target objects G is 500g or more and 600g or less, the calculation unit 45 excludes the combination of weighing hoppers 11c and weighing hoppers 11d, which has a total weight of 450g, from the list of candidate combinations to be selected.

[0058] Furthermore, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that the total weight of the first item g1 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11 and the total weight of the target objects G contained in the m weighing hoppers 11 are within a predetermined range. In this case as well, the target object G may be fried rice, and the first item g1 may be ingredients such as char siu. In this case as well, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that the total number of first items g1 is within a predetermined range. That is, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that the total number and total weight of the first items g1 and the total weight of the target objects G are within a predetermined range.

[0059] Furthermore, when the calculation unit 45 selects a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 based on the total number and total weight of the first item g1 and the total weight of the target object G, the calculation unit 45 may further select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 based on the total number and total weight of the second item g2. In this case, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the second item g2 falls within a predetermined range. For example, if the target object G is fried rice, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the second item g2 (excluding the char siu (first item g1)) falls within a predetermined range.

[0060] <Selection based on item 1 g1 and item 2 g2> Next, we will describe an example in which the calculation unit 45 selects m combinations of weighing hoppers 11 based on the first item g1 and the second item g2.

[0061] The calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 based on the number and weight of the first item g1 and the number and weight of the second item g2.

[0062] In other words, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that the total number of first items g1 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11 and the total weight of second items g2 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11 are within a predetermined range. In this case, the object G is a mixed salad, the first item g1 may be cherry tomatoes, and the second item g2 may be a salad other than cherry tomatoes.

[0063] Furthermore, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that the total number of first items g1 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11 and the total number of second items g2 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11 are within a predetermined range. In this case, the object G may be, for example, a mixture of bolts and nuts, the first item g1 may be a bolt, and the second item g2 may be a nut. Alternatively, the object G may be a confectionery or the like made by mixing multiple types of solids. In these cases as well, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that the total weight of the second items g2 is within a predetermined range. That is, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that the total number of first items g1 and the total weight and total number of second items g2 are within a predetermined range.

[0064] Furthermore, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that the total weight of the first item g1 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11 and the total weight of the second item g2 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11 are within a predetermined range. In this case, the object G may be a confectionery or mixed salad containing a mixture of multiple types of solids. In this case, the calculation unit 45 may also select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that the total number of the first item g1 is within a predetermined range. The calculation unit 45 may also select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that the total number of the second item g2 is within a predetermined range. That is, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that the total weight and total number of the first item g1 and the total weight and total number of the second item g2 are within a predetermined range.

[0065] (Hopper control unit) The hopper operation unit 46 controls the operation of each weighing hopper 11. For example, the hopper operation unit 46 operates the weighing hopper 11 so that it can feed the target material G into the discharge unit 20. The hopper operation unit 46 is configured to independently control the operation of each weighing hopper 11. In this way, the control unit 40 can feed the selected m target materials G from the weighing hopper 11 into the discharge unit 20.

[0066] Furthermore, the hopper operation unit 46 operates the weighing hopper 11, causing the weighing hopper 11 to return the object G to the distribution feeder 16 via a transport path (not shown). Here, the control unit 40 may return the object G in the weighing hopper 11 to the distribution feeder 16 if the measured value measured by the first measuring unit 31 is less than or equal to a predetermined value (third threshold) or greater than or equal to a predetermined value (fourth threshold). That is, for example, if there is a weighing hopper 11 (for example, the weighing hopper 11d in Figure 4) in which the number of first items g1 measured by the first measuring unit 31 is one or less, the hopper operation unit 46 of the control unit 40 may operate the weighing hopper 11d, thereby returning the object G in the weighing hopper 11d to the distribution feeder 16. Furthermore, for example, if there is a weighing hopper 11 (for example, weighing hopper 11e in Figure 4) where the number of first items g1 measured by the first measuring unit 31 is 5 or more, the hopper operation unit 46 of the control unit 40 may operate the weighing hopper 11e so that the objects G in the weighing hopper 11e are returned to the distribution feeder 16. Also, if there is a weighing hopper 11 where the weight of the first items g1 measured by the first measuring unit 31 is less than or equal to a predetermined value (third threshold) or greater than or equal to a predetermined value (fourth threshold), the hopper operation unit 46 of the control unit 40 may operate the weighing hopper 11 so that the objects G in the weighing hopper 11 are returned to the distribution feeder 16.

[0067] Furthermore, the control unit 40 may return the object G in the weighing hopper 11 to the distribution feeder 16 if the measured value measured by the second measuring unit 32 is less than or equal to a predetermined value (first threshold) or greater than or equal to a predetermined value (second threshold). In other words, if there is a weighing hopper 11 in which the weight of the object G measured by the second measuring unit 32 is less than or equal to a predetermined value (first threshold) or greater than or equal to a predetermined value (second threshold), the hopper operation unit 46 of the control unit 40 may operate the weighing hopper 11 so that the object G in that weighing hopper 11 is returned to the distribution feeder 16.

[0068] Furthermore, if the total number of first items g1 placed in the n weighing hoppers 11 is less than or equal to a predetermined value (fifth threshold), the control unit 40 may return the objects G in the weighing hopper 11 whose measured value measured by the first measuring unit 31 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (sixth threshold) to the distribution feeder 16. That is, for example, if the total number of first items g1 placed in the n weighing hoppers 11 is less than or equal to a predetermined value (fifth threshold), the hopper operation unit 46 of the control unit 40 may operate the weighing hopper 11e, thereby returning the objects G in the weighing hopper 11 whose measured value is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (sixth threshold) to the distribution feeder 16.

[0069] Incidentally, if the total number of first items g1 placed in the n weighing hoppers 11 is small, the number of combinations excluded by the calculation unit 45 increases. In this case, weighing hoppers 11 with a large number of first items g1 placed in them may be preferentially included in the combination. As a result, when measuring combinations in the next cycle, the total number of first items g1 placed in the n weighing hoppers 11 may decrease even further, and the number of combinations excluded by the calculation unit 45 may increase even more. Furthermore, as weighing hoppers 11 with a large number of first items g1 continue to be preferentially included in the combination, there is a possibility that the first items g1 will be insufficient in the object G measured in subsequent cycles. Also, if the total number of first items g1 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11 is kept within a predetermined range, the variation in the total weight of the object G contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, or the total weight of the second items g2 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, may increase. In other words, even if a combination of m objects G or second items g2 contained in the weighing hoppers 11 has good accuracy in total weight, if the total number of first items g1 in the combination is outside a predetermined range, the calculation unit 45 will exclude that combination.

[0070] In contrast, in this embodiment, when the total number of first items g1 placed in the n weighing hoppers 11 is less than or equal to a predetermined value (fifth threshold), the target objects G in the weighing hoppers 11 whose measured value is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (sixth threshold) are returned to the distribution feeder 16. As a result, the calculation unit 45 selects combinations of weighing hoppers 11 with a small number of first items g1. In this case, the number of combinations excluded by the calculation unit 45 may temporarily increase. On the other hand, by the calculation unit 45 selecting combinations of weighing hoppers 11 with a small number of first items g1, it is possible to suppress a shortage of first items g1 in the target objects G measured in subsequent cycles. Also, as many first items g1 are returned to the distribution feeder 16, the average number of first items g1 placed in each weighing hopper 11 may gradually increase. Therefore, the number of combinations that the calculation unit 45 can select may increase. As a result, it is possible to suppress shortages of the first item g1 in the object G measured in subsequent cycles, and to reduce the variation in the weight of the object G or the second item g2 contained in m weighing hoppers 11.

[0071] Furthermore, if the total number of first items g1 placed in the n weighing hoppers 11 is less than or equal to a predetermined value (fifth threshold), it is possible that some kind of malfunction has occurred upstream of the weighing hoppers 11. For this reason, the control unit 40 may be configured to notify the operator of a warning in such cases.

[0072] Furthermore, if the total number of first items g1 placed in the n weighing hoppers 11 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (seventh threshold), the control unit 40 may return the objects G in the weighing hopper 11 whose measured value measured by the first measuring unit 31 is less than or equal to a predetermined value (eighth threshold) to the distribution feeder 16. That is, for example, if the total number of first items g1 placed in the n weighing hoppers 11 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (seventh threshold), the hopper operation unit 46 of the control unit 40 may operate the weighing hopper 11d so that the objects G in the weighing hopper 11 whose measured value is less than or equal to a predetermined value (eighth threshold) are returned to the distribution feeder 16.

[0073] Incidentally, even when the total number of first items g1 placed in the n weighing hoppers 11 is large, the number of combinations excluded by the calculation unit 45 also increases. In this case, weighing hoppers 11 with a small number of first items g1 placed in them may be preferentially included in the combination. As a result, when measuring combinations in the next cycle, the total number of first items g1 placed in the n weighing hoppers 11 may increase even further, and the number of combinations excluded by the calculation unit 45 may increase even more. Furthermore, because weighing hoppers 11 with a small number of first items g1 continue to be preferentially included in the combination, there is a possibility that the remaining first items g1 will be wasted in the object G measured in subsequent cycles.

[0074] In contrast, in this embodiment, when the total number of first items g1 placed in n weighing hoppers 11 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (7th threshold), the objects G in the weighing hoppers 11 whose measured value is less than or equal to a predetermined value (8th threshold) are returned to the distribution feeder 16. As a result, the calculation unit 45 selects combinations of weighing hoppers 11 with a large number of first items g1. However, even in this case, the number of combinations excluded by the calculation unit 45 may temporarily increase. On the other hand, by the calculation unit 45 selecting combinations of weighing hoppers 11 with a large number of first items g1, it is possible to suppress the waste of excess first items g1 in objects G measured in subsequent cycles. Furthermore, as the objects G in the corresponding weighing hoppers 11 are returned to the distribution feeder 16, the average number of first items g1 placed in each weighing hopper 11 may gradually decrease. Therefore, the number of combinations that the calculation unit 45 can select may increase. As a result, the variation in the weight of the object G or the second item g2 contained in m weighing hoppers 11 can be reduced.

[0075] Furthermore, if the total number of first items g1 placed in the n weighing hoppers 11 exceeds a predetermined value (seventh threshold), it is possible that some kind of malfunction has occurred upstream of the weighing hoppers 11. For this reason, the control unit 40 may be configured to notify the operator of a warning in such cases.

[0076] (Operation Control Unit) The operation control unit 49 controls the operation of the distribution feeder 16, the input feeder 17, the pool hopper 12, and the discharge unit 20, etc. For example, the operation control unit 49 may also control the opening and closing operation of the opening 21 of the discharge unit 20.

[0077] Such a control unit 40 may be composed of, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that operates based on a predetermined program.

[0078] Food manufacturing method and measurement method Next, with reference to Figures 5 to 7, the operation of this embodiment, that is, the food manufacturing method and the measurement method for measuring the object G, which is a mixture of the first item g1 and the second item g2, will be explained. Figure 5 is a flowchart of the food manufacturing method according to one embodiment. Figure 6 is a flowchart of the measurement method according to one embodiment. Figure 7 is a flowchart of the measurement method according to one embodiment.

[0079] As shown in Figure 5, the food manufacturing method comprises the steps of: selecting a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 (selection step, indicated by the symbol S51 in Figure 5); putting the selected m weighing hoppers 11 into the discharge section 20 (input step, indicated by the symbol S52 in Figure 5); and storing the object G put into the discharge section 20 into the packaging container 5 (storage step, indicated by the symbol S53 in Figure 5). Of these, the selection step is the step of selecting a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 using the measurement method according to this embodiment.

[0080] First, the measurement method according to this embodiment will be described.

[0081] First, the input feeder 17 feeds the object G into n weighing hoppers 11 (hopper feeding process, indicated by S61 in Figure 6). At this time, the object G is first supplied to the distribution feeder 16 from a supply device (not shown). Next, the object G is distributed from the distribution feeder 16 to multiple input feeders 17. The object G distributed to the input feeders 17 is then fed into the weighing hoppers 11 via the pool hopper 12 by the input feeders 17.

[0082] At this time, the first measuring unit 31 measures at least one of the number and weight of the first items g1 that are put into each weighing hopper 11 (first measuring step, reference numeral S62 in Figure 6). First, the first measuring unit 31 takes an image of the object G (imaging step, reference numeral S71 in Figure 7). The first measuring unit 31 may take an image of the object G falling from the input feeder 17, or it may take an image of the object G on the input feeder 17. The image data acquired by the first measuring unit 31 is transmitted to the data receiving unit 41, and the data receiving unit 41 of the control unit 40 receives the image data (data receiving step, reference numeral S72 in Figure 7).

[0083] Next, the image processing unit 42 identifies the first item g1 from the image data received by the data receiving unit 41 (identification step, code S73 in Figure 7). Then, the measurement unit 43 measures the number and / or weight of the first item g1 from the image data processed by the image processing unit 42 (measurement step, code S74 in Figure 7). The number and / or weight of the first item g1 are then stored in the storage unit 44 of the control unit 40 (first storage step, code S75 in Figure 7).

[0084] In this way, the first measuring unit 31 measures the number of first items g1, etc. At this time, the third measuring unit 33 may measure at least one of the number and weight of second items g2 that are put into each weighing hopper 11. In this case, the third measuring unit 33 may measure the number of second items g2, etc. in the same way as the first measuring step described above (reference numeral S62 in Figure 6) (reference numerals S71 to S74 in Figure 7).

[0085] Furthermore, the second measuring unit 32 measures the weight of the object G placed in each weighing hopper 11 (second measuring step, indicated by the symbol S63 in Figure 6). In this process, the second measuring unit 32 first measures the weight of the object G placed in each weighing hopper 11. The data acquired by the second measuring unit 32 is transmitted to the data receiving unit 41, and the data receiving unit 41 of the control unit 40 receives the weight data of the object G. The weight of the object G is then stored in the storage unit 44 of the control unit 40 (second storage step, indicated by the symbol S76 in Figure 7).

[0086] In this way, the number and weight of the first items g1 placed in each weighing hopper 11, and the weight of the target object G are stored in the memory unit 44 in association with each other.

[0087] Next, the calculation unit 45 selects a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 based on the measured values ​​measured by the first measuring unit 31 and the measured values ​​measured by the second measuring unit 32 (selection step, indicated by the symbol S64 in Figure 6). At this time, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first items g1 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, and the total weight of the objects G contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, are within a predetermined range.

[0088] Furthermore, in the selection step (reference numeral S64 in Figure 6), the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 based on the measured values ​​measured by the first measuring unit 31 and the measured values ​​measured by the third measuring unit 33. In this case, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first items g1 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, and at least one of the total number and total weight of the second items g2 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, are within a predetermined range.

[0089] Then, the calculation unit 45 determines whether there exists a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that, for example, the total number and total weight of the first items g1 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, and the total weight of the objects G contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, are all within a predetermined range (S64 in Figure 6). If the calculation unit 45 is able to select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 (YES in S64 in Figure 6), the hopper operation unit 46 of the control unit 40 operates the m weighing hoppers 11. As a result, the objects G in the m weighing hoppers 11 are fed into the discharge unit 20 (feed-in process, S65 in Figure 6, S52 in Figure 5).

[0090] On the other hand, if the calculation unit 45 is unable to select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 (NO, indicated by the symbol S64 in Figure 6), the weighing hopper 11 into which the object G is placed enters a standby state (standby process, indicated by the symbol S66 in Figure 6). In this case, the weighing hopper 11 into which the object G is placed will remain in a standby state until the calculation unit 45 is able to select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 by placing the object G into an empty weighing hopper 11 in a subsequent combination cycle.

[0091] Here, the calculation unit 45 may determine, for example, whether the waiting time has exceeded a predetermined time (determination step, indicated by the symbol S67 in Figure 6). If the calculation unit 45 determines that the waiting time has exceeded a predetermined time (YES, indicated by the symbol S67 in Figure 6), the hopper operation unit 46 of the control unit 40 operates the weighing hopper 11, which has exceeded a predetermined waiting time. As a result, the object G in the weighing hopper 11d, which has exceeded a predetermined waiting time, is returned to the distribution feeder 16 via a transport path (not shown). Subsequently, the input feeder 17 inputs the returned object G back into the weighing hopper 11 (hopper input step, indicated by the symbol S61 in Figure 6).

[0092] On the other hand, if the calculation unit 45 determines that the waiting time has not elapsed (NO, indicated by the symbol S67 in Figure 6), the hopper operation unit 46 does not operate the weighing hopper 11, and the weighing hopper 11 into which the object G is placed enters a standby state. In this case, the weighing hopper 11 into which the object G is placed enters remains in a standby state until the calculation unit 45 can select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 by placing object G into the empty weighing hopper 11.

[0093] In this way, the object G, which is a mixture of the first item g1 and the second item g2, is measured.

[0094] Next, the object G that was put into the discharge section 20 is stored inside the packaging container 5 (reference numeral S53 in Figure 5). In this way, the food stored inside the packaging container 5 is manufactured.

[0095] As described above, according to this embodiment, the measurement system 1 for measuring an object G in which a first item g1 and a second item g2 are mixed comprises a first measurement unit 31 that measures at least one of the number and weight of the first item g1 put into each weighing hopper 11, a second measurement unit 32 that measures the weight of the object G put into each weighing hopper 11, and a control unit 40 that controls the measurement system 1. The control unit 40 has a calculation unit 45 that selects a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 based on the measured values ​​measured by the first measurement unit 31 and the measured values ​​measured by the second measurement unit 32. Furthermore, the measurement system 1 comprises a first measurement unit 31 that measures at least one of the number and weight of the first item g1 put into each weighing hopper 11, a third measurement unit 33 that measures at least one of the number and weight of the second item g2 put into each weighing hopper 11, and a control unit 40 that controls the measurement system 1. The control unit 40 has a calculation unit 45 that selects a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 based on the measured values ​​measured by the first measuring unit 31 and the measured values ​​measured by the third measuring unit 33. As a result, according to this embodiment, the weight of the first item g1 can be measured when the first item g1 and the second item g2 are mixed together. Therefore, it is not necessary to measure the first item g1 and the second item g2 separately. As a result, the measurement system 1 can be made smaller. In addition, the increase in equipment costs can be suppressed.

[0096] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the weight of the first item g1 can be measured when the first item g1 and the second item g2 are mixed together. Therefore, if the object G is a product that is processed after mixing rice (for example, the second item g2) and ingredients (for example, the first item g1), such as fried rice, the flavors of the product can be blended and the taste of the product can be improved.

[0097] Furthermore, the calculation unit 45 of the control unit 40 selects a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first items g1 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, and the total weight of the objects G contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, are within a predetermined range. This reduces the variation in the number and / or weight of the first items g1 and the weight of the objects G stored in the packaging container 5. Also, the calculation unit 45 of the control unit 40 selects a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first items g1 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, and at least one of the total number and total weight of the second items g2 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, are within a predetermined range. This reduces the variation in the number and / or weight of the first items g1 and the number and / or weight of the second items g2 among the objects G stored in the packaging container 5.

[0098] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the control unit 40 returns the objects G in the weighing hopper 11 to the distribution feeder 16 if the measured value measured by the second measuring unit 32 is below a predetermined value (first threshold) or above a predetermined value (second threshold). This increases the number of combinations that the calculation unit 45 can select. As a result, variations in the weight of the objects G stored in the packaging container 5 can be reduced.

[0099] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the control unit 40 returns the objects G in the weighing hopper 11 to the distribution feeder 16 if the measured value measured by the first measuring unit 31 is below a predetermined value (third threshold) or above a predetermined value (fourth threshold). In this case as well, the number of combinations that the calculation unit 45 can select can be increased. As a result, variations in the weight of the first item g1 among the objects G stored in the packaging container 5 can be reduced. In addition, it is possible to suppress shortages of the first item g1 in objects G measured in subsequent cycles, and to suppress waste of excess first item g1.

[0100] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, if the total number of first items g1 placed in the n weighing hoppers 11 is less than or equal to a predetermined value (fifth threshold), the control unit 40 returns the objects G in the weighing hopper 11 whose measured value measured by the first measuring unit 31 is equal to or equal to a predetermined value (sixth threshold) back to the distribution feeder 16. This further reduces variations in the weight of the first items g1 among the objects G stored in the packaging container 5. In addition, it is possible to more effectively suppress shortages of the first items g1 in objects G measured in subsequent cycles.

[0101] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, if the total number of first items g1 placed in the n weighing hoppers 11 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (seventh threshold), the control unit 40 returns the objects G in the weighing hoppers 11 whose measured value measured by the first measuring unit 31 is less than or equal to a predetermined value (eighth threshold) to the distribution feeder 16. In this case as well, variations in the weight of the first items g1 among the objects G stored in the packaging container 5 can be further reduced. In addition, the waste of excess first items g1 in objects G measured in subsequent cycles can be more effectively suppressed.

[0102] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the first item g1 and the second item g2 are food products. Also, the target product G is processed after mixing the first item g1 and the second item g2. In this case, as described above, the flavors of the products can be blended and the taste of the products can be improved.

[0103] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the control unit 40 dispenses the selected m objects G from the weighing hoppers 11 into the discharge unit 20. In this case, the measured objects G can be easily stored in the packaging container 5.

[0104] In the above-described embodiment, the calculation unit 45 selected a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 in the selection step (reference numeral S64 in Figure 6) such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first items g1 contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, and the total weight of the objects G contained in the m weighing hoppers 11, are within a predetermined range. However, the invention is not limited to this. For example, in the selection step (reference numeral S64 in Figure 6), the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that only the total weight of the objects G contained in the m weighing hoppers 11 is within a predetermined range. Then, the calculation unit 45 may determine whether at least one of the number and weight of the first items g1 in the combination of m weighing hoppers 11 is within a predetermined range.

[0105] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the measurement method according to one embodiment. First, similar to the hopper feeding step described above (reference numeral S61 in Figure 6), the feeding feeder 17 feeds the object G into n weighing hoppers 11 (hopper feeding step, reference numeral S81 in Figure 8).

[0106] At this time, similar to the first measurement step described above (reference numeral S62 in Figure 6), the first measurement unit 31 measures at least one of the number and weight of the first items g1 that are put into each weighing hopper 11 (first measurement step, reference numeral S82 in Figure 8). The third measurement unit measures at least one of the number and weight of the second items g2 that are put into each weighing hopper 11.

[0107] Furthermore, similar to the second measurement step described above (reference numeral S63 in Figure 6), the second measurement unit 32 measures the weight of the object G placed in each weighing hopper 11 (second measurement step, reference numeral S83 in Figure 8).

[0108] Next, the calculation unit 45 selects a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 based on the measured values ​​measured by the second measurement unit 32 (selection step, indicated by the symbol S84 in Figure 8). At this time, the calculation unit 45 may select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that the total weight of the objects G contained in the m weighing hoppers 11 falls within a predetermined range.

[0109] Then, the calculation unit 45 determines whether there exists a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 such that the total weight of the objects G contained in the m weighing hoppers 11 falls within a predetermined range (indicated by the symbol S84 in Figure 8). If the calculation unit 45 is able to select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 (YES in the symbol S84 in Figure 8), the hopper operation unit 46 of the control unit 40 operates the m weighing hoppers 11. As a result, the objects G in the m weighing hoppers 11 are fed into the discharge unit 20 (feed-in process, indicated by the symbol S85 in Figure 8, and the symbol S52 in Figure 5).

[0110] On the other hand, if the calculation unit 45 is unable to select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 (NO, indicated by the symbol S84 in Figure 8), the weighing hopper 11 into which the object G is placed enters a standby state, similar to the standby process described above (S66 in Figure 6) (standby process, indicated by the symbol S86 in Figure 8). In this case, the weighing hopper 11 into which the object G is placed remains in a standby state until the calculation unit 45 is able to select a combination of m weighing hoppers 11 by placing the object G into the empty weighing hopper 11.

[0111] Here, similar to the determination step described above (reference numeral S67 in Figure 6), the calculation unit 45 may determine, for example, whether the waiting time has exceeded a predetermined time (determination step, reference numeral S87 in Figure 8). If the calculation unit 45 determines that the waiting time has exceeded a predetermined time (YES in reference numeral S87 in Figure 8), the hopper operation unit 46 of the control unit 40 operates the weighing hopper 11, which has exceeded a predetermined waiting time. As a result, the object G in the weighing hopper 11d, which has exceeded a predetermined waiting time, is returned to the distribution feeder 16 via a transport path (not shown). Subsequently, the input feeder 17 inputs the returned object G back into the weighing hopper 11 (hopper input step, reference numeral S81 in Figure 8).

[0112] On the other hand, if the calculation unit 45 determines that the waiting time has not elapsed (NO, indicated by the symbol S87 in Figure 8), the hopper operation unit 46 does not operate the weighing hopper 11, and the weighing hopper 11 into which the object G is placed enters a standby state.

[0113] Next, the calculation unit 45 determines whether the total number of first items g1 put into the discharge unit 20 is within a predetermined range (S88 in Figure 8). If the calculation unit 45 determines that the total number of first items g1 is within a predetermined range (YES in S88 in Figure 8), the objects G put into the discharge unit 20 are transported to the next process (transport process, S89 in Figure 8).

[0114] On the other hand, if the calculation unit 45 determines that the total number of first items g1 is not within a predetermined range (NO, indicated by the symbol S88 in Figure 8), the objects G that were fed into the discharge unit 20 are returned to the distribution feeder 16 via a transport path (not shown). Subsequently, the input feeder 17 feeds the returned objects G back into the weighing hopper 11 (hopper input process, indicated by the symbol S81 in Figure 8).

[0115] In this way, the object G, which is a mixture of the first item g1 and the second item g2, may be measured.

[0116] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and variations described above. For example, various modifications may be made to each element of the embodiments and variations described above. Furthermore, forms that include elements other than those described above are also included in the embodiments of this disclosure. Furthermore, forms that do not include some of the elements described above are also included in the embodiments of this disclosure. Furthermore, forms that include some elements included in one embodiment of this disclosure and some elements included in another embodiment of this disclosure are also included in the embodiments of this disclosure. Accordingly, elements included in each of the embodiments and variations described above, and in each of the embodiments of this disclosure other than those described above, may be combined, and forms relating to such combinations are also included in the embodiments of this disclosure. Furthermore, the effects achieved by this disclosure are not limited to the effects described above, and unique effects may be achieved depending on the specific configuration of each embodiment. In this way, various additions, changes, and partial deletions are possible to each element described in the claims, specification, abstract, and drawings, without departing from the technical idea and spirit of this disclosure.

[0117] [Note] As is clear from the above, this disclosure includes the following aspects.

[0118] (Aspect 1) A first aspect of the present disclosure relates to a measurement system for measuring an object in which a first article and a second article are mixed, comprising: n (n is a natural number of 3 or more) hoppers into which the object is fed; a first measurement unit for measuring at least one of the number and weight of the first article fed into each hopper; a second measurement unit for measuring the weight of the object fed into each hopper; and a control unit for controlling the measurement system, wherein the control unit has a calculation unit for selecting a combination of m (m is a natural number satisfying n>m>1) hoppers based on the measurement values ​​measured by the first measurement unit and the measurement values ​​measured by the second measurement unit, and the calculation unit for selecting a combination of m hoppers such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first article contained in the m hoppers, and the total weight of the object contained in the m hoppers, are within a predetermined range.

[0119] (Aspect 2) A second aspect of the present disclosure is that, in the first aspect described above, the calculation unit may select a combination of the m hoppers such that the total number of the first articles contained in the m hoppers and the total weight of the objects contained in the m hoppers are within a predetermined range.

[0120] (Aspect 3) A third aspect of the present disclosure is that, in the first aspect or the second aspect described above, the calculation unit may select a combination of the m hoppers such that the total weight of the first articles contained in the m hoppers and the total weight of the objects contained in the m hoppers are within a predetermined range.

[0121] (Aspect 4) A fourth aspect of the present disclosure is that, in each of the first to third aspects described above, the calculation unit may select a combination of the m hoppers such that the total number and total weight of the first articles contained in the m hoppers, and the total weight of the objects contained in the m hoppers, are within a predetermined range.

[0122] (Appendix 5) A fifth aspect of the present disclosure may further include a third measuring unit that measures at least one of the number and weight of the second articles placed in each of the first to fourth aspects described above, and the calculation unit may select a combination of the m hoppers such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the second articles contained in the m hoppers falls within a predetermined range.

[0123] (Aspect 6) A sixth aspect of the present disclosure is that, in each of the first to fifth aspects described above, the measurement system may further include n input feeders for inputting the objects into each of the hoppers, and a distribution feeder for supplying the objects to each of the input feeders, and the control unit may return the objects in the hopper to the distribution feeder if the measured value measured by the second measurement unit is less than or equal to a first threshold or greater than or equal to a second threshold.

[0124] (Aspect 7) A seventh aspect of the present disclosure relates to a measurement system for measuring an object in which a first article and a second article are mixed, comprising: n (n is a natural number of 3 or more) hoppers into which the object is fed; a first measurement unit that measures at least one of the number and weight of the first article fed into each hopper; a third measurement unit that measures at least one of the number and weight of the second article fed into each hopper; and a control unit that controls the measurement system, wherein the control unit has a calculation unit that selects a combination of m (m is a natural number satisfying n>m>1) hoppers based on the measurement values ​​measured by the first measurement unit and the measurement values ​​measured by the third measurement unit, and the calculation unit selects a combination of m hoppers such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first article contained in the m hoppers, and at least one of the total number and total weight of the second article contained in the m hoppers, are within a predetermined range.

[0125] (Pattern 8) An eighth aspect of the present disclosure is that, in the seventh aspect described above, the calculation unit may select a combination of the m hoppers such that the total number of first articles contained in the m hoppers and the total weight of the second articles contained in the m hoppers are within a predetermined range.

[0126] (Aspect 9) A ninth aspect of the present disclosure is that, in the seventh aspect or the eighth aspect described above, the calculation unit may select a combination of the m hoppers such that the total number of first articles contained in the m hoppers and the total number of second articles contained in the m hoppers are within a predetermined range.

[0127] (Aspect 10) A tenth aspect of the present disclosure is that, in each of the seventh to ninth aspects described above, the calculation unit may select a combination of the m hoppers such that the total weight of the first articles contained in the m hoppers and the total weight of the second articles contained in the m hoppers are within a predetermined range.

[0128] (Aspect 11) An eleventh aspect of the present disclosure is that, in each of the seventh to tenth aspects described above, the calculation unit may select a combination of the m hoppers such that the total number and total weight of the first articles contained in the m hoppers, and the total number and total weight of the second articles contained in the m hoppers, are within a predetermined range.

[0129] (Aspect 12) A twelfth aspect of the present disclosure is that, in each of the first to eleventh aspects described above, the measurement system may further include n input feeders for inputting the objects into each of the hoppers, and a distribution feeder for supplying the objects to each of the input feeders, and the control unit may return the objects in the hopper to the distribution feeder if the measured value measured by the first measurement unit is less than or equal to a third threshold or greater than or equal to a fourth threshold.

[0130] (Aspect 13) A thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure is that, in each of the first to twelfth aspects described above, the measurement system may further include n input feeders for inputting the objects into each of the hoppers, and a distribution feeder for supplying the objects to each of the input feeders, and the control unit may return the objects in the hopper to the distribution feeder if the total number of the first articles input into the n hoppers is less than or equal to a fifth threshold, and the measurement value measured by the first measurement unit is greater than or equal to a sixth threshold.

[0131] (Aspect 14) A fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure is that, in each of the first to thirteen aspects described above, the measurement system may further include n input feeders for inputting the objects into each of the hoppers, and a distribution feeder for supplying the objects to each of the input feeders, and the control unit may return the objects in the hopper to the distribution feeder if the total number of the first articles input into the n hoppers is equal to or greater than the seventh threshold, and the measurement value measured by the first measurement unit is equal to or less than the eighth threshold.

[0132] (Aspect 15) A fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure is that, in each of the first to fourteenth aspects described above, the first article and the second article may be food products, and the subject may be processed after the first article and the second article have been mixed.

[0133] (Aspect 16) A sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure is that, in each of the first to fifteen aspects described above, the measurement system may further include a discharge section provided downstream of the hopper, and the control unit may put the selected m objects in the hopper into the discharge section.

[0134] (Aspect 17) A 17th aspect of the present disclosure is a measurement method for measuring an object in which a first article and a second article are mixed, comprising the steps of: an input feeder inputting the object into n (n is a natural number of 3 or more) hoppers; a first measurement unit measuring at least one of the number and weight of the first articles input into each hopper; a second measurement unit measuring the weight of the object input into each hopper; and a calculation unit selecting a combination of m (m is a natural number satisfying n>m>1) hoppers based on the measurement values ​​measured by the first measurement unit and the measurement values ​​measured by the second measurement unit, wherein the calculation unit selects a combination of m hoppers such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first articles contained in the m hoppers, and the total weight of the object contained in the m hoppers, are within a predetermined range.

[0135] (Aspect 18) A 18th aspect of the present disclosure is a measurement method for measuring an object in which a first article and a second article are mixed, comprising the steps of: an input feeder inputting the object into n (n is a natural number of 3 or more) hoppers; a first measurement unit measuring at least one of the number and weight of the first article input into each hopper; a third measurement unit measuring at least one of the number and weight of the second article input into each hopper; and a calculation unit selecting a combination of m (m is a natural number satisfying n>m>1) hoppers based on the measurement values ​​measured by the first measurement unit and the measurement values ​​measured by the third measurement unit, wherein the calculation unit selects a combination of m hoppers such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first article contained in the m hoppers, and at least one of the total number and total weight of the second article contained in the m hoppers, are within a predetermined range.

[0136] (Aspect 19) A 19th aspect of the present disclosure may include the steps of: selecting a combination of m hoppers by a measurement method according to the 17th aspect or the 18th aspect described above; putting the objects in the selected m hoppers into a discharge section; and storing the objects put into the discharge section in a packaging container, wherein the first and second articles may be food products, and the objects may be processed after the first and second articles are mixed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0137] 1. Measurement System 5 Packaging containers 11. Measuring hopper 16 Distributed feeders 17. Input Feeder 20 Discharge section 31. First Measurement Unit 32 Second Measurement Unit 33. Third Measurement Unit 40 Control Unit 45 Arithmetic section G Object g1 1st article g2 2nd item

Claims

1. A measuring system for measuring an object in which a first item and a second item are mixed, The aforementioned object is placed into n (n is a natural number of 3 or more) hoppers, A first measuring unit that measures at least one of the number and weight of the first articles placed into each of the hoppers, A second measuring unit that measures the weight of the object placed into each of the aforementioned hoppers, The system comprises a control unit for controlling the measurement system, The control unit, The system includes a calculation unit that selects m (where m is a natural number satisfying n > m > 1) combinations of the hoppers based on the measured values ​​measured by the first measurement unit and the measured values ​​measured by the second measurement unit. The calculation unit is a measurement system that selects a combination of the m hoppers such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first articles contained in the m hoppers, and the total weight of the objects contained in the m hoppers, are within a predetermined range.

2. The invention further comprises a third measuring unit that measures at least one of the number and weight of the second articles to be placed into the n hoppers, The measurement system according to claim 1, wherein the calculation unit selects a combination of the m hoppers such that at least one of the total number of second articles and the total weight contained in the m hoppers falls within a predetermined range.

3. n feeding feeders that feed the aforementioned object into n hoppers, The system further comprises a distributed feeder that supplies the aforementioned object to each of the aforementioned input feeders, The measurement system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit returns the object in the hopper to the distributed feeder if the measured value measured by the second measurement unit is less than or equal to the first threshold or greater than or equal to the second threshold.

4. A measuring system for measuring an object in which a first item and a second item are mixed, The aforementioned object is placed into n (n is a natural number of 3 or more) hoppers, A first measuring unit that measures at least one of the number and weight of the first articles placed into each of the hoppers, A third measuring unit that measures at least one of the number and weight of the second articles placed into each of the hoppers, The system comprises a control unit that controls the measurement system, The control unit, The system includes a calculation unit that selects m (where m is a natural number satisfying n > m > 1) combinations of the hoppers based on the measured values ​​measured by the first measuring unit and the measured values ​​measured by the third measuring unit. The calculation unit is a measurement system that selects a combination of the m hoppers such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first articles contained in the m hoppers, and at least one of the total number and total weight of the second articles contained in the m hoppers, are within a predetermined range.

5. n feeding feeders that feed the aforementioned object into n hoppers, The system further comprises a distributed feeder that supplies the aforementioned object to each of the aforementioned input feeders, The measurement system according to claim 2 or 4, wherein the control unit returns the object in the hopper to the distributed feeder if the measured value measured by the first measurement unit is below the third threshold or above the fourth threshold.

6. n feeding feeders that feed the aforementioned object into n hoppers, The system further comprises a distributed feeder that supplies the aforementioned object to each of the aforementioned input feeders, The measurement system according to claim 2 or 4, wherein the control unit returns the objects in the hopper to the distributed feeder if the total number of the first articles fed into the n hoppers is less than or equal to a fifth threshold, and the measured value measured by the first measuring unit is greater than or equal to a sixth threshold.

7. n feeding feeders that feed the aforementioned object into n hoppers, The system further comprises a distributed feeder that supplies the aforementioned object to each of the aforementioned input feeders, The measurement system according to claim 2 or 4, wherein the control unit returns the objects in the hopper to the distribution feeder if the total number of the first items fed into the n hoppers is equal to or greater than the seventh threshold, and the measured value measured by the first measuring unit is equal to or less than the eighth threshold.

8. The first and second articles are food products. The measurement system according to claim 2 or 4, wherein the object is processed after mixing the first article and the second article.

9. The hopper is further provided with a discharge section located downstream of it. The measurement system according to claim 2 or 4, wherein the control unit loads the selected m objects in the hopper into the discharge unit.

10. A measurement method for measuring an object in which a first item and a second item are mixed, The feeding feeder loads the object into n (where n is a natural number of 3 or more) hoppers, The first measuring unit measures at least one of the number and weight of the first articles to be placed into each of the hoppers, The second measuring unit measures the weight of the object placed into each of the hoppers, The calculation unit includes the step of selecting m (where m is a natural number satisfying n > m > 1) combinations of the hoppers based on the measured values ​​measured by the first measurement unit and the measured values ​​measured by the second measurement unit, The calculation unit selects a combination of the m hoppers such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first articles contained in the m hoppers, and the total weight of the objects contained in the m hoppers, are within a predetermined range.

11. A measurement method for measuring an object in which a first item and a second item are mixed, The feeding feeder loads the object into n (where n is a natural number of 3 or more) hoppers, The first measuring unit measures at least one of the number and weight of the first articles to be placed into each of the hoppers, The third measuring unit measures at least one of the number and weight of the second articles that are put into each of the hoppers, The calculation unit includes the step of selecting m (where m is a natural number satisfying n > m > 1) combinations of the hoppers based on the measured values ​​measured by the first measurement unit and the measured values ​​measured by the third measurement unit, The calculation unit selects a combination of the m hoppers such that at least one of the total number and total weight of the first articles contained in the m hoppers, and at least one of the total number and total weight of the second articles contained in the m hoppers, are within a predetermined range.

12. A step of selecting the m combination of hoppers by the measurement method described in claim 10 or 11, A step of loading the selected m objects in the hopper into the discharge section, The process includes storing the object that has been put into the discharge section into a packaging container, The first and second articles are food products. A food manufacturing method wherein the object is processed after mixing the first article and the second article.

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