Measurement system and conveyor module

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a conveyor module for separating a granular material. The conveyor module, comprises: a base; an inner platform rotatably coupled to the base, the inner platform rotatable in a first direction; an outer platform rotatably coupled to the base, the outer platform disposed at least partially surrounding the inner platform, the outer platform rotatable in a second direction opposite to the first direction; and at least one distributor coupled to the base, the at least one distributor extending between the inner platform to the outer platform, wherein the at least one distributor comprises: a first guiding surface for directing the granular material from the inner platform to the outer platform; and a second guiding surface for directing the granular material from the outer platform to the inner platform.

Description

MEASUREMENT SYSTEM AND CONVEYOR MODULECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to Singapore patent application no. 10202400854X which was filed on 25 March 2024, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This application relates to the field of granular material measurement, and more particularly to a measurement system, and a conveyor module.BACKGROUND

[0003] Performing measurements on granular materials, such as coffee beans or rice, often involve separating the granular material into discrete units, i.c., grains / particlcs. The process of separating granular material is typically laborious and manually intensive. Due to the small dimensions of granular materials, conventional conveyor systems or sorting systems are typically not suitable for separating granular materials. In addition, conventional conveyor systems are often complex, heavy and bulky, and hence are often limited to factory or industrial environments.SUMMARY

[0004] According to an aspect, disclosed herein is a conveyor module for separating a granular material. The conveyor module, comprises: a base; an inner platform rotatably coupled to the base, the inner platform rotatable in a first direction; an outer platform rotatably coupled to the base, the outer platform disposed at least partially surrounding the inner platform, theouter platform rotatable in a second direction opposite to the first direction; and at least one distributor coupled to the base, the at least one distributor extending between the inner platform to the outer platform, wherein the at least one distributor comprises: a first guiding surface for directing the granular material from the inner platform to the outer platform; and a second guiding surface for directing the granular- material from the outer platform to the inner platform.

[0005] According to another aspect, disclosed herein is a measurement system. The measurement system comprises the conveyor module as described above; and an optical measurement module configured to measure at least one parameter of the granular material separated on the conveyor module.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Various embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the following drawings:

[0007] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a measurement system according to various embodiments;

[0008] FIG. 2 is a schematic top view of a conveyor module according to various embodiments;

[0009] FIG. 3 is a schematic top view of the conveyor module of FIG. 2 during separating operation;

[0010] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a measurement system according to various embodiments;

[0011] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the measurement system of FIG. 4;

[0012] FIG. 6 is a sectional side view of a measurement system according to various embodiments;

[0013] FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of the measurement system of FIG. 6;

[0014] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a conveyor module and a measurement module according to various embodiments;

[0015] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a conveyor module according to various embodiments;

[0016] FIG. 10 is a sectional perspective view of the conveyor module of FIG. 9;

[0017] FIG. 11 is a top view of the conveyor module of FIG. 9;

[0018] FIG. 12 is a top view of a conveyor module according to various embodiments;

[0019] FIG. 13 is a perspective view and a detailed view of a conveyor module according to various embodiments;

[0020] FIG. 14 is a perspective view and a detailed view of a conveyor module according to various embodiments;

[0021] FIG. 15A is a top view of a conveyor module in a separation mode according to various embodiments;

[0022] FIG. 15B is a top view of a conveyor module in a separation mode according to various embodiments;

[0023] FIGs. 16A, 16B and 17A, are schematic top view of a conveyor module with multiple distributors according to various embodiments;

[0024] FIG. 17B is a schematic top view of a conveyor module including a single distributor with multiple arms according to various embodiments;

[0025] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a conveyor module according to various embodiments;

[0026] FIG. 19 is another perspective view of the conveyor module of FIG. 18;

[0027] FIG. 20 is a top view and sectional view A-A of the conveyor module of FIG. 18;

[0028] FIGs. 21 and 22 show the different steps of operation of the conveyor module of FIG. 18; and

[0029] FIG. 23 shows exemplary conveyor modules of different dimensions.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] The following detailed description is made with reference to the accompanying drawings, showing details and embodiments of the present disclosure for the purposes of illustration. Features that are described in the context of an embodiment may correspondingly be applicable to the same or similar features in the other embodiments, even if not explicitly described in these other embodiments. Additions and / or combinations and / or alternatives as described for a feature in the context of an embodiment may correspondingly be applicable to the same or similar feature in the other embodiments.

[0031] In the context of various embodiments, the articles “a”, “an” and “the” as used with regard to a feature or element include a reference to one or more of the features or elements.

[0032] In the context of various embodiments, the term “about” or “approximately” as applied to a numeric value encompasses the exact value and a reasonable variance as generally understood in the relevant technical field, c.g., within 10% of the specified value.

[0033] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0034] The term “surrounding” may refer to a first object being disposed around or partially around a second object. According to different context, the first object may be spaced apart from a periphery of the second object. In other words, the first object may not share a common border or not be in contact with the second object. Alternatively, the first object may be in contact with the periphery of the second object. In other words, the first object and the second object may share a common border or be in a contact coupling. In yet other alternatives, the first object may overlap with the second object.

[0035] The term “granular material”, “granular substance”, “granular particles”, “grains”, “particles”, may be used interchangeably to refer to a collection or an aggregate of macroscopic particles or discrete solid particles surrounded by a gas or a liquid.

[0036] Performing measurements on granular materials, such as coffee beans, tea leaves or rice, often involve an initial step of separating the granular material into discrete units, i.e., grains / particles. The process of separating granular material is typically laborious and manually intensive. In addition, such measurements are typically performed in a laboratory environment with limited space. Conventional conveyor systems, which are often large and complex, are typically unsuitable for such measurements.

[0037] In view of the above inexhaustive limitations, proposed herein is a measurement system for a granular material and a conveyor module. Referring to FIG. 1 , the proposed measurement system 50 may include a housing 60 defining an interior space 70. The measurement system 50 may also include a conveyor module 100 enclosed by the housing 60. The granular material 90 may be disposed on the conveyor module 100. The conveyor module 100 may perform the function of separating the granular material 90 into individual particles or grains, prior to making one or more measurements. The housing 60 may further enclose a measurement module 80 for measuring or obtaining one or more parameters of one or more granular materials 90 separated on the conveyor module 100.

[0038] In some embodiments, the conveyor module 100 may also serve as a sorting module for dividing the granular material 90 into different classifications / types / forms based on the measurements. In addition, foreign material, such as dry leaves or rocks, may also be removed from the granular material 90 using the conveyor module 100.

[0039] The proposed measurement system 50 and conveyor module 100 may be used for effective / efficient separation of discrete granular material. As examples, the granular material may range from long elliptical to spherical in shape. The size of the granular- material may rangefrom 0.5mm to 25mm along the longest axis. The aspect ratio of the granular material may range from 1.0 to 5.0. Examples of the granular material may include grains, for example cereal grains such as rice, wheat, barley, sorghum amongst others; legumes, for example soy beans, mung beans, peas, chickpeas, lentils amongst others; coffee beans; tea leaves; fruits, preferably dried, for example, raisins, cranberries; nuts, for example groundnuts, almonds, cashews.

[0040] In various exemplary embodiments, the measurement module 80 may be an optical based measurement module. For example, the measurement module 80 may include one or more types of optical-based imaging sensors / imaging technology, such hyperspectral imaging, infrared imaging, colour imaging, ultraviolet imaging, etc. The measurement module 80 may also include analysis modules such as machine vision or computer vision modules. In other embodiments, the measurement module 80 may include sensors of other nature, such as electromagnetic -based sensors.

[0041] FIGs. 2 and 3 show a schematic top view of a conveyor module 100 according to various embodiments of the disclosure. Referring to FIG. 2, the conveyor module 100 may comprise an inner platform 110 or an inner stage rotatable in a first direction 111. The conveyor module 100 may further include an outer platform 120 or outer stage rotatable in a second direction 121 opposite to the first direction 111. In other words, the inner platform 110 and the outer platform 120 are counter rotating relative to each other. As an example, the first direction may be a counterclockwise direction, and the second direction may be a clockwise direction. Alternatively, the first direction may be a clockwise direction, and the second direction may be a counterclockwise direction. The inner platform 1 10 and the outer platform 120 may be coaxially rotatable, in other words, rotatable about a common axis. In alternative embodiments, the inner platform 110 and the outer platform 120 may each be rotatable about a respective rotational axis independent from one another. In some embodiments, the rotational axes for the inner platform 110 and the outer platform 120 may be parallel to each other. In otherembodiments, the rotational axes for the inner platform 110 and the outer platform 120 may be non-parallel or oblique, such that the rotational axes form an angle therebetween.

[0042] The conveyor module 100 may further include a distributor 130. The distributor 130 may include a first guiding surface 132 and a second guiding surface 134. In various embodiments, the first guiding surface 132 may be disposed opposite to the second guiding surface 134, in other words, the first guiding surface 132 and the second guiding surface 134 may be opposing surfaces of the distributor 130.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 3, a granular material 90 may be disposed on the conveyor module 100, for example on the inner platform 110 and / or the outer platform 120. In various embodiments, the first guiding surface 132 may be configured to direct the granular material 90 from the inner platform 1 10 to the outer platform 120. In addition, the second guiding surface 134 may be configured to direct the granular material 90 from the outer platform 120 to the inner platform 110.

[0044] In various embodiments, the granular material 90 disposed on the inner platform 110 rotating in the first direction 111, may be guided by the first guiding surface 132 to transit from the inner platform 1 10 to the outer platform 120 at a first turning region 182. The granular material 90 may transit from the inner platform 110 to the outer platform 120 via a shear force caused by the counter rotating motion between the inner platform 110 and the outer platform 120. Similarly, the granular material 90 disposed on the outer platform 120 rotating in the second direction 121, may be guided by the second guiding surface 134 to transit from the outer platform 120 to the inner platform 1 10 at a second turning region 184. According to various embodiments, the inner platform 110, the first turning region 182, the outer platform 120, and the second turning region 184 may form a closed path 92 for transporting and separating the granular material 90. In various embodiments, when the granular material 90 moves from the inner platform 110 to the outer platform 120 and vice versa, to move in the closed path 92, thegranular material 90 is separated into distinct grains or particles. In various embodiments, the counter rotation between the inner platform 110 and the outer platform 120 enables the granular material 90 to be separated.

[0045] FIGs. 4 to 8 illustrate a measurement system 50 according to various embodiments. The measurement system 50 may include a housing 60 defining an interior space 70. The housing 60 may comprise atop casing 62, a body 64, and abase 66. The housing 60 may enclose a conveyor module 100 and a measurement module 80.

[0046] According to various embodiments, the top casing 62 may include a feeder funnel 63 for feeding 91 a granular material 90 to the conveyor module 100. The feeder funnel 63 may further include a dispenser for controllably feeding or dispensing a specific amount of granular material 90 to the conveyor module 100. As an example, the dispenser may include a flap member or a planar member actuatable by a servo motor for dispensing granular material 90.

[0047] In various embodiments, the body 60 may include a swing door 65 enabling easy access to the interior space 70 of the housing 60. The swing door 65 may also allow access to the conveyor module 100 and / or the measurement module 80.

[0048] Tn various embodiments, referring to FIGs. 7 and 8, the measurement module 80 may include an adjustable supporting frame 81. The measurement module 80 may further include an imaging device 82 and a plurality of light sources 84 mounted to the supporting frame 81. As an example, the imaging device 82 may be a hyperspectral camera. The supporting frame81 may be adjustable along an axial direction Z to vary a relative position of the imaging device82 relative to the conveyor module 100. In addition, the supporting frame 81 may also be adjustable along an angular direction 9.

[0049] In various embodiments, the conveyor module 100 and the measurement module 80 may be disposed coupled to the base 66. The base 66 may act as a reference or datum to the conveyor module 100 and the measurement module 80 such that the measurement module 80may be adjusted / position relative to the conveyor module 100. In various embodiments, the base 66 may include a collection bin 67 or a collection drawer configured to receive selected granular material and / or unwanted material from the conveyor module 100.

[0050] Referring to FIGs. 8 to 11, various embodiments of a conveyor module 100 is illustrated. The conveyor module 100 may be used for separating and / or sorting a granular' material 90, such as coffee beans. The conveyor module 100 may include an inner platform 1 10 rotatably coupled to a base 66, and an outer platform 120 also rotatably coupled to the base 66. The outer platform 120 may be disposed at least partially surrounding the inner platform 110. The inner platform 110 may be rotatable in a first direction 111. The outer platform 120 may be rotatable in a second direction 121, the second direction 121 may be opposite to the first direction 1 1 1. Therefore, the inner platform 1 10 and the outer platform 120 are counter rotating platforms. In various embodiments, the inner platform 110 and the outer platform 120 are rotatable about a common rotational axis 102. Alternatively, the inner platform 110 and the outer platform 120 may be rotatable about a respective axis independent from each other. In various embodiments, the inner platform 110 and the outer platform 120 may rotate with different rotational speed thus improving the separating effect. In various embodiments, the inner platform 110 has a higher rotational speed than the outer platform 120. In an exemplary embodiment, a ratio of rotational speed between the inner platform 110 and the outer platform 120 is 2:1.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 9, in various embodiments, the counter rotation of the inner platform 1 10 and the outer platform 120 may be driven by an actuation module. In various embodiments, the actuation module may drive the inner platform 110 and the outer platform 120 collectively, in other words, the actuation module synchronizes the counter rotating motion between the inner platform 110 and the outer platform 120. In an exemplary embodiment, the actuation module may be configured as a planetary gear' module 160. The planetar y gear- module160 may comprise a sun gear coupled to the inner platform 110 and a ring gear coupled to the outer platform 120. The planetary gear module 160 may further include a plurality of planet gears coupled between the sun gear and the ring gear, wherein the plurality of planet gears is held relative to the base 66 by a carrier.

[0052] As previously disclosed, both the counter rotation as well as the differential rotational speed between the inner platform 1 10 and the outer platform 120 may aid or enhance the separating effect of the granular material 90. As such, the counter rotation with differential rotational speed as provided to the inner platform 110 and the outer platform 120 may be a natural technical outcome of the planetary gear module 160. This is due to a counter rotating and differential speed output at the sun gear and the ring gear, providing a simple and efficient solution.

[0053] In other embodiments, the actuation module may include but is not limited to: AC servo motors, DC motors (pulse width modulation), linear stage, rotational stage, etc or a combination thereof. In addition, the actuation module may also include but is not limited to: a worm gear, a spur gear arrangement, transmission belts, tension cables, drive chains, etc.

[0054] In various embodiments, the inner platform 1 10 and the outer platform 120 may each define a planar surface or planar portion for receiving or transporting the granular material 90. Therefore, the inner platform 110 may be co-planar with the outer platform 120. In other words, the inner platform 110 may be levelled or substantially aligned with the outer platform 120 along the axial direction (Z). This enables a smooth transition of the granular material 90 from the inner platform 1 10 to the outer platform 120, and vice versa.

[0055] In various embodiments, the conveyor module 100 may further include one or more distributors 130 coupled to the base 66. hi the exemplary embodiments as illustrated in FIGs. 8 to 12, the conveyor module 100 comprises one distributor 130 coupled to the base 66. The distributor 130 may extend between the inner platform 110 to the outer platform 120.

[0056] In various embodiments, the distributor 130 may include an arm 131 extending from a base 133 substantially along a radial direction R. The arm 131 and the base 133 may form continuous curvature to better guide the granular material 90. For example, the curvature may include gradual curves / contours without any sharp comers or abrupt changes in surface contour.

[0057] In various embodiments, the distributor 130 may extend from the common rotational axis 102 towards the outer platform 120. In some embodiments, the distributor 130 maybe spaced apart from the common rotational axis 102 along the radial direction R.

[0058] In various embodiments, the distributor 130 may include a first guiding surface 132 for directing the granular material 90 from the inner platform 110 to the outer platform 120. The distributor 130 may also further include a second guiding surface 134 for directing the granular material 90 from the outer platform 120 to the inner platform 1 10. The first guiding surface 132 and the second guiding surface 134 may be opposing surfaces of the arm 131.

[0059] In various embodiments, the conveyor module 100 may further comprise an inner barrier 135 coupled to the base 66. The inner barrier 135 may be disposed between the inner platform 110 and the outer platform 120. The inner barrier 135 may be elevated along the axial direction Z in relative to the inner platform 1 10 and the outer platform 120. The elevated portions of the inner barrier 135 may block or prevent granular material 90 from moving between the inner platform 110 to the outer platform 120 across the inner barrier 135. In various embodiments, the inner barrier 135 may be formed with and define one or more openings 137 between the inner platform 110 and the outer platform 120. The one or more openings 137 allow granular materials to be transported between the inner platform 1 10 to the outer platform 120 across the inner barrier 135. In the exemplary embodiment as shown in FIGs. 10 and 11, the inner barrier 135 comprises one opening 137. In various embodiments, the distributor 130 extends from the inner platform 110 to the outer platform 120 through the opening 137.Therefore, the distributor 130 may divide the opening 137 into a first sub-opening 138 and a second sub-opening 139.

[0060] In various embodiments, the conveyor module 100 may further comprise an outer barrier 145 disposed on a periphery of the outer platform 120. The outer barrier 145 and the inner barrier 135 may form opposing walls on the outer platform 120 to form a valley for holding and remaining the granular material 90 on the outer platform 120.

[0061] In various embodiments, the outer platform 120 may comprise a plurality of ridges 122 or bumps disposed spaced apart from one another. Adjacent ones of the plurality of ridges 122 may define a respective spacing to assist in separating the granular material 90. As examples, the spacing may be sized to hold one grain / particle of the granular material 90. In other examples, the plurality of ridges 122 may be sized with a width narrower than a minimum dimension of the granular material, such as a width or length of each granular material.

[0062] In various embodiments, the conveyor module 100 may further include an outlet 150 defining an outlet channel 152. The outlet 150 may be communicable with the collection bin 67 via the outlet channel 152. The outlet 150 may be disposed on a periphery of the outer platform 120. The conveyor module 100 may also include an exit latch 140 actuatable to displace selected granular material from the outer platform 120 to the outlet 150.

[0063] In various embodiments, referring again to FIG. 11 , the granular material 90 disposed on the inner platform 110 may be guided by the first guiding surface 132 to transit from the inner platform 110 to the outer platform 120 at a first turning region 182. Similarly, the granular material 90 disposed on the outer platform 120 may be guided by the second guiding surface 134 to transit from the outer platform 120 to the inner platform 110 at a second turning region 184. The first turning region 182 may correspond to the first sub-opening 138. Similarly, the second turning region 184 may correspond to the second sub-opening 139.

[0064] In various embodiments, referring to FIG. 12, the exit latch 140 may be actuatable between a first position 142 retracting away from the outer platform 120 and a second position 144 extending substantially across the outer platform 120. As an example, the exit latch 140 may be pivotable between the first position 142 and the second position 144.

[0065] In the first position 142, the exit latch 140 may be retracted away from the outer platform 120 such that the granular material 90 transiting from the first turning region 182 remain on the rotating outer platform 120. In the second position 144, the exit latch 140 extends substantially across the outer platform 120 to guide granular material 90 from the first turning region 182 and / or the outer platform 120 to the outlet 150.

[0066] In various embodiments, the distributor 130 may also be actuatable or repositioned. For example, the distributor 130 may be pivotable to vary the first turning region 182 / the first sub-opening 138 as well as the second turning region 184 / the second sub-opening 139. As it may be appreciated, the distributor 130 may be positioned according to the granular material used, to achieve a desired gap ratio between the first sub-opening 138 and the second subopening 139. The gap ratio may determine the efficiency or effectiveness of separating the granular material.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 13, the inner barrier 135 may further include a first guiding plate 170 disposed adjacent to the first sub-opening 138. The first guiding plate 170 together with the distributor 130, may guide the granular material 90 from the inner platform 110 to the outer platform 120 through the first sub-opening 138. In various embodiments, the first guiding plate 170 may define a thickness up to a height of the inner barrier 135. The first guiding plate 170 may include a chamfered surface 172 disposed adjacent to the first turning region 182. The chamfered surface 172 may be configured to guide the granular material 90 entering the first turning region 182. Additionally or alternatively, the first guiding plate 170 may include abeveled surface to better guide the granular material 90. The first guiding plate 170 may include a curved contour / curvature without sharp comers for better guiding the granular material 90.

[0068] Similarly, referring to FIG. 14, the inner barrier 135 may further include a second guiding plate 174 disposed adjacent to the second sub-opening 139. The second guiding plate 174 together with the distributor 130, may guide the granular' material 90 from the outer platform 120 to the inner platform 1 10 through the second sub-opening 139. In various embodiments, the second guiding plate 174 may define a thickness up to a height of the inner barrier 135. The second guiding plate 174 may include a chamfered surface 176 disposed adjacent to the second turning region 184. The chamfered surface 176 may be configured to guide the granular material 90 entering the second turning region 184. Additionally or alternatively, the second guiding plate 174 may include a beveled surface to better guide the granular material 90. The second guiding plate 174 may include a curved contour / curvature without sharp comers for better guiding the granular material. In various embodiments, the chamfered surface 176 may be aligned in parallel to the second guiding surface 134 of the distributor 130.

[0069] FIGs. 15A and 15B illustrate the conveyor module 100 in different modes of operation. Referring to FIG. 15A, the conveyor module 100 is in a separation mode or is separating the granular material 90. In the separation mode, the granular materials are separated from an aggregation of particles / grains into distinct particles / grains. In various embodiments, in separation mode, the exit latch 140 is in the first position 142 retracted away from the outer platform 120, such that the granular material 90 transiting from the first turning region 182 remain on the rotating outer platform 120. In addition, the inner platform 110 and the outer platform 120 are counter rotating relative to one another. As such, the inner platform 110, the first turning region 182, the outer platform 120, and the second turning region 184 may form a closed path 92 for transporting and separ ating the granular- material 90.L0070J In the process of transiting from the inner platform 110 to the outer platform 120, and vice versa, the granular material 90 is separated into discrete single grains or particles, ready to be measured by the measurement module 80. In various embodiments, the granular material 90 may transit from the inner platform 110 to the outer platform 12 and vice versa for one or more rounds. In some examples, the granular material 90 may be separated with a single round in the closed path 92.

[0071] In various embodiments, upon separating the granular material 90, the measurement system 50 and conveyor module 100 switch from the separation mode to a measurement mode. Referring to FIG. 15B, the conveyor module 100 is in the measurement mode or is performing measurement(s) on the granular material 90. In the measurement mode, upon completion of measurement for each granular material, the measured granular particle is guided to the outlet 150 exiting the conveyor module 100. In various embodiments, the exit latch 140 is in the second position 144 extended substantially across the outer platform 120 to guide granular material 90 from the first turning region 182 and / or the outer platform 120 to the outlet 150. As such, the inner platform 110, the first turning region 182, the outer platform 120, and the second turning region 184 may form an open path 95 for transporting and removing the measured granular material 90 from the conveyor module 100. The granular material 90 removed from the conveyor module 100 may be deposited in the collection bin 67.[0072J In various embodiments, the measurement system 50 may further be configured in a sorting mode, wherein selected ones of the granular material 90 are kept in the conveyor module 100 while unselected ones of the granular material 90 are discarded or removed. As such, not all granular materials are discarded or removed upon measurement. In the sorting mode, the exit latch 140 may be actuated to switch between the first position 142 and the second position144 to retain or to discard each of the granular material 90. In an exemplary embodiment, selected ones of the granular- material 90, which meet predetermined selection criteria, may beretained in the conveyor module 100 while other granular material 90 are ejected. In some examples, the selection criteria may include positive attribute(s), such as grains with no surface damage. In other examples, the selection criteria may include negative attribute(s), such as broken grains. In some embodiments, unwanted material or foreign objects, such as rocks or dried leaves, may be removed from the granular material 90 in the sorting mode.

[0073] Further embodiments of the conveyor module 100 are illustrated in FIGs. 16A, 16B 17A and 17B. In various embodiments, the conveyor module 100 may comprise a plurality of distributors 130. Referring to FIGs. 16A and 16B, the conveyor module 100 may include two distributors 130a / 130b, extending between the inner platform 110 to the outer platform 120. In various embodiments, each of the distributors 130a / 130b may define a respective pair of opposing guiding surfaces. For example, a first distributor 130a may define a first guiding surface 132a and a second guiding surface 134a, and a second distributor 130b may define a third guiding surface 132b and a fourth guiding surface 134b.

[0074] In various embodiments, the inner platform 110, the outer platform 120, the first distributor 130a and the second distributor 130b may define two independent closed paths 92 / 93 for transporting the granular material 90. In an exemplary embodiment, the inner platform 1 10, the second guiding surface 134a, the third guiding surface 132b, and the outer platform 120 may define a first closed path 92. In addition, the inner platform 110, the first guiding surface 132a, the fourth guiding surface 134b, and the outer platform 120 may define a second closed path 93. In some embodiments as shown in FIG. 16 A, the first closed path 92 may be longer and spans a larger area than the second closed path 93. In other embodiments as shown in FIG. 16B, the first closed path 92 and the second closed path 93 may have an equal length and spans equal area.

[0075] In various embodiments as illustrated in FIG. 17A, the conveyor module 100 may include three distributors 130a / 130b / 130c, extending between the inner platform 110 to theouter platform 120. Similarly, the inner platform 110, outer platform 120, and the three distributors 130a / 130b / 130c may define three closed paths 92 / 93 / 94.

[0076] In various embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 17B, a single distributor 130 with multiple arms 131 may extend between the inner platform 110 to the outer platform 120 on multiple fronts. As it may be appreciated, each arm 131 may define a respective pair of guiding surfaces and hence respective turning regions. Therefore, the multiple arms 131 may define respective multiple closed paths 92 / 93 / 94.

[0077] Exemplary measurement system and conveyor module

[0078] FIGs. 18 to 23 show an exemplary measurement system of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 18, the present measurement system comprises a main base housing the components of a planetary gear system, which include one ring gear, one sun gear, three planet gears, and a carrier. Resting above them are the barriers, inner platform, outer platform, and distributor. The various components may be driven by a 5.5kg 12VDC stepper motor, with ball rollers positioned beneath each gear to facilitate smooth rotation. Alternatively, it can be driven by various types of rotational motors, with examples including, but are not limited to: AC servo motors, DC motors (pulse width modulation), linear stage, rotational stage, etc or a combination thereof. The listed motors may be recognized for their precise control and positioning accuracy, along with the ability to operate at a much higher speed than stepper motors. An advantage of AC servo motors may be in superior torque density, which makes it well-suited for dynamic motor applications requiring rapid acceleration and deceleration. In some implementations, a 12V DC stepper motor may be selected for simpler control. Moreover, DC stepper motor offers high reliability, with a lifespan of up to 4 to 5 years or about 10,000 hours, making it very cost- effective.

[0079] Bi-directional / counter-rotating platform (Inner Platform and Outer Platform)

[0080] The conveyor module may include a planetary gear system, specifically the star epicyclic gear arrangement, with other planetary gear arrangements also suitable to be used. In the planetary gear arrangement, the sun gear rotates counterclockwise, driving the three planet gears to rotate clockwise, which in turn drives the ring gear to rotate clockwise. The inner platform may be affixed to the sun gear', while the outer platform may be affixed to the ring gear. The quantity of planet gears may be in a range from 1 to 3 units, but not limited thereto. Adding more planet gears increases the load capacity and torsional rigidity. This aids in distributing the load more evenly, thus reducing the risk of deflection and damages on the planet gear teeth. As an example, 3 planet gears were utilized to accommodate a large volume of granular substances, and this enables the platform to meet the high throughput requirement effectively. In some arrangements, the direction of the platform may be reversed.

[0081] In some arrangements, for an even separation of the granular material or granular substance before the scanning procedure, the optimal rotational direction for the inner platform may be set to counterclockwise, while the outer platform is set to rotate clockwise, with the camera or measurement module positioned at the 12 o’clock direction. (Refer to FIG. 20). Alternatively, the inner platform may rotate in the clockwise direction while the outer platform may rotate in the counterclockwise direction.

[0082] The gear ratio for the planetary gear system may be configured to be 2:1 (inner platform : outer platform). This translates to a speed ratio of 2: 1 between the inner platform and the outer platform. The actual speed of movement of the platform may be adjusted by changing the frequency (measured in Hertz) of the stepper motor. Considerations for determining the actual speed of platform movement encompass various exemplary factors, including the inner platform radius (ranging from 0.04m to 0.065m in various examples), outer platform radius(ranging from 0.115m to 0.14m in various examples), gear ratio, frequency, and stepper motorparameters such as the default step angle of 1.8°. The dimensions as disclosed are exemplary in nature, and thus non-limiting.

[0083] In an exemplary setup, the calculated step angle may be adjusted to 0.225° based on the motor configuration, utilizing 1 / 8 micro stepping to allow a smooth rotation. The maximum achievable rotational speed of the stepper motor may be assessed at 5000Hz, corresponding to linear speeds ranging between 1 .96m / s to 2.45m / s for the inner platform and 0.98m / s to 1.225m / s for the outer platform. Time taken per revolution may be approximately 0.32 seconds for the inner platform and 0.64 seconds for the outer platform. In some instances, operation at such high rotational speeds may lead to centrifugal force, potentially causing spillage of granular substances from the platform during rotation.

[0084] In some examples, to mitigate the issue of spillage, the maximum rotational speed for the stepper motor was determined to be 800Hz which results in linear speeds ranging between 0.314m / s to 0.392m / s for the inner platform, and 0.157m / s to 0.196m / s for the outer platform. Time taken per revolution is 2 seconds and 4 seconds for the inner platform and outer platform, respectively. Conversely, the slowest practical rotational speed for the stepper motor is approximately 6Hz, resulting in linear speeds ranging between 2.36 x 10A(-3)m / s to 2.94 x 10A(-3) m / s for the inner platform and 1.18 x 10A(-3)m / s to 1.47 x 10A(-3) m / s for the outer platform. Time taken per revolution is 266.72 seconds and 533.44 seconds for the inner platform and outer platform, respectively.

[0085] Alternatively, achieving a bi-directional or counter-rotating driving mechanism may be possible through either one of or a combination of: a worm gear, a spur gear arrangement, transmission belts, tension cables, drive chains, etc. However, the planetary gear system is one example selected from many due to its compactness capability. The colours of the platforms are selected to enable better data collection by the camera system. The preferred colour and finish of the inner platform is matte white or blue.LOO86J Barrier

[0087] The barrier functions as a boundary to prevent overflow or spillage of the granular substance out from the platform during operation or rotation. Referring to FIG. 20, a chamfered surface (CS) of the barrier may be configured aligned in parallel to the distributor. A preferred angle of 20 to 25 degrees enables a smooth entrance for the granular substance to enter the outer platform. The chambered surface may aid in transferring the granular substance from the inner platform to the outer platform. The chamfered surface and the distributor surface may collectively guide the granular substance to make a turn to enter the outer platform by shear force.

[0088] Similarly, a bevelled surface (BS) of the barrier may serve similar function as the chamfered surface. The bevelled surface may include a rounded edge, for example with a 5mm diameter and a thicker profile in comparison to the chamfered surface. In some examples, the length of the bevelled surface may be between 15mm to 20mm. This slight profile difference helps to guide the granular substance along the barrier's path with a 20-25mm clearance from the barrier wall as it travels along the inner platform(See FIGs. 21 to 23).

[0089] Distributor

[0090] The distributor collaborates or works with the barrier, to assist in separating the granular material The distributor’s angle may be adjustable, allowing it to be set to any operable position based on the size of the granular substance. An aspect for the effective operation of the distributor is the parallel alignment of the chamfered surface at the left bottom edge of the barrier. For most granular substances, an angle of 25° may be operable (see FIG. 20). Other angles may be provided according to other implementations.

[0091] While slight deviations in the angle may allow functionality, however, in some configurations, some granular substance(s) may become trapped at the tip of the distributor.This issue may be addressed by loading additional granular substance(s) onto the platform, displacing the trapped substance(s) using the push force generated by the newly added batch.

[0092] Exit Latch

[0093] The exit latch may be located at the 9 o'clock position (see FIG. 20, top view). The exit latch may be driven by a micro servo motor. Referring to FIG. 20, the exit latch may be activated upon completion of the scanning procedure, transitioning from the Off position to the On position at an angle, for example, ranging from 60° to 69°. Subsequently, the exit latch may rest on the outer platform, thus facilitating the exit of the granular substance from the outer platform to the collection bin. The mounting position and orientation of the exit latch may be adaptable. Placement of the exit latch on the outer platform may vary around a circumference / angular position of the outer platform. In an example, the exit latch may be positioned at the 3 o'clock direction, aligned with the fixed location of the collection bin. This configuration may allow convenient access to the granular substance as it exits from the outer platform and enters the collection bin (sec FIG. 19).

[0094] Additionally, the position of the collection bin may be adjusted as needed. The placement of the exit latch may depend on a position of the collection bin. Optionally, the exit latch may be able to perform a sorting function, by timing its activation with the output data from the camera / measurement module. In such a situation, a discrete item (such as a coffee bean) may be scanned by the camera, deemed to be chosen for either positive attribute(s) (e.g. no surface damage) or negative attributes (e.g. a broken coffee bean and / or foreign objects), and the exit latch timed to eject the item for collection.

[0095] Referring to FIGs. 21 and 22, a method of operating the measurement system / conveyor module is as described. Step 1: Granular material sample loaded via a feeder system to the inner platform. Step 2: The sample moves in an anti-clockwise direction along the inner platform, sample will be separated and distributed as the inner platform rotates and transportedto the outer platform. Step 3: As the sample moves in the anti-clockwise direction along the inner platform, the sample interacts with both the distributor and the edge of the inner barrier. Utilizing the shear force theory, the boundary separating the inner and outer platforms facilitates the movement of the sample from the inner platform to the outer platform. Step 4: The sample completes one full rotation / circuit along the outer platform. Through the repeated interaction between the distributor and the edge of the barrier, the turning motion ensures the sample is evenly distributed before travelling back to the inner platform. Step 5: The camera / measurement module starts to take photo / sensing data and scans the sample. Step 6: Upon completion of scanning, the sample will proceed from the inner platform to the outer platform, heading towards the outlet / exit. At this point, a motorized servo motor latch I exit latch will be activated, shifting from the off position (first position) to the on position (second position), facilitating the release / ejection of the sample from the outer platform to the collection bin.

[0096] All examples described herein, whether of methods, materials, or products, arc presented for the purpose of illustration and to aid understanding and are not intended to be limiting or exhaustive. Modifications may be made by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as claimed.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A conveyor module for separating a granular material, comprising: a base; an inner platform rotatably coupled to the base, the inner platform rotatable in a first direction; an outer platform rotatably coupled to the base, the outer platform disposed at least partially surrounding the inner platform, the outer platform rotatable in a second direction opposite to the first direction; and at least one distributor coupled to the base, the at least one distributor extending between the inner platform to the outer platform, wherein the at least one distributor comprises: a first guiding surface for directing the granular material from the inner platform to the outer platform; and a second guiding surface for directing the granular material from the outer platform to the inner platform.

2. The conveyor module as recited in claim 1 , wherein the granular material disposed on the inner platform is guided by the first guiding surface to transit from the inner platform to the outer platform at a first turning region, and wherein the granular material disposed on the outer platform is guided by the second guiding surface to transit from the outer platform to the inner platform at a second turning region.

3. The conveyor module as recited in claim 2, wherein the inner platform, the first turning region, the outer platform, and the second turning region forms a closed path for separating the granular material.

4. The conveyor module as recited in any one of the above claims, further comprising an inner barrier coupled to the base, the inner barrier disposed between the inner platform and the outer platform.5, The conveyor module as recited in claim 4, wherein the inner barrier defines at least one opening between the inner platform and the outer platform, wherein the at least one distributor extends from the inner platform to the outer platform through the at least one opening.

6. The conveyor module as recited in any one of claims 4 and 5, wherein the inner barrier further comprises a first chamfered surface disposed adjacent to the first turning region, the chamfered surface being configured to guide the granular material entering the first turning region.7, The conveyor module as recited in claim 6, wherein the inner barrier further comprises a second beveled surface disposed adjacent to the second turning region, the second beveled surface being configured to guide the granular material exiting the second turning region.

8. The conveyor module as recited in any one of the above claims, wherein the inner platform and the outer platform rotates with different rotational speed.9, The conveyor module as recited in any one of the above claims, wherein the inner platform and the outer platform are rotatable about a common rotational axis.

10. The conveyor module as recited in claim 9, wherein each of the at least one distributor extends from the common rotational axis towards the outer platform.

11. The conveyor module as recited in any one of the above claims, wherein the outer platform comprises a plurality of ridges disposed spaced apart from one another.

12. The conveyor module as recited in any one of the above claims, further comprising a planetary gear module, wherein the planetary gear module comprises a sun gear coupled to the inner platform; a ring gear coupled to the outer platform; and a plurality of planet gears coupled between the sun gear and the ring gear, the plurality of planet gears held relative to the base by a carrier.

13. The conveyor module as recited in any one of the above claims, further comprising: an outlet disposed on a periphery of the outer platform; and an exit latch being actuatable to displace selected ones of the granular material from the outer platform to the outlet.

14. The conveyor module as recited in claim 13, wherein the exit latch is actuatable between a first position extending substantially across the outer platform and a second position retracted away from the outer platform.

15. The conveyor module as recited in claim 14, wherein the exit latch is pivotable between the first position and the second position.

16. The conveyor module as recited in any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the outlet is communicable with a collection bin.

17. The conveyor module as recited in any one of the above claims, wherein the at least one distributor comprises: a first distributor extending between the inner platform to the outer platform to define the first guiding surface and the second guiding surface; and a second distributor extending between the inner platform to the outer platform to define a third guiding surface and a fourth guiding surface.

18. The conveyor module as recited in claim 17, wherein the inner platform, the outer platform, the first distributor and the second distributor form a plurality of closed path for separating the granular material.

19. The conveyor module as recited in any one of claims 17 and 18, wherein the at least one distributor further comprises: a third distributor extending between the inner platform to the outer platform, wherein the first distributor, the second distributor and the third forms three closed paths for separating the granular material.

20. A measurement system, comprising: the conveyor module as recited in any one of the above claims configured to separate the granular material; and an optical measurement module configured to measure at least one parameter of the granular material separated on the conveyor module.

1. The measurement system as recited in claim 20, further comprising: a housing enclosing the conveyor module and the optical measurement module, wherein the housing comprises a feeder funnel for feeding the granular material on the conveyor module.

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