Inspection member and needle detector

Abstract

An inspection member (100) is used for a pre-use operation check of a needle detector (10) for inspecting whether or not unnecessary metal is mixed into an inspection target (11). The inspection member (100) comprises a sample (PP, BP, CP) to be used instead of the inspection target when performing the operation check, and a tag (12) having electrical information recorded therein. The tag (12) is attached to the sample (PP, BP, CP) so as to be subjected to the inspection together with the sample (PP, BP, CP). The electrical information is information for generating historical information used to manage the traceability of the operation check, and is generated in association with information obtained from the needle detector (10) by being electrically read by the needle detector (10).

Description

Inspection components and needle detectors

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an inspection member and a needle detector.

[0002] Conventionally, needle detectors have been used to inspect whether or not unnecessary metals are present in products before they are shipped. It is common to check the operation of a needle detector before using it. For example, a test piece described in Patent Document 1 is used for such a check of operation before use. The test piece described in Patent Document 1 has identification information added thereto for identifying the test piece. The identification information is defined by a combination of a transparent portion, such as a notch that transmits light, and a non-transparent portion that does not transmit light.

[0003] JP 2010-107357 A

[0004] The notch that defines the identification information may deteriorate over repeated use of the test piece, making it impossible to correctly identify the presence or absence of the notch. This makes it difficult to properly ensure that the needle detector is functioning properly before use.

[0005] An inspection member according to one aspect of the present disclosure is used for checking the operation of a needle reading machine before use, which inspects whether or not unwanted metals are present in an object to be inspected. The inspection member includes a sample used in place of the object to be inspected during the operation check, and a tag on which electrical information is recorded. The tag is attached to the sample so that it is subjected to inspection together with the sample. The electrical information is information for generating history information used to manage traceability of the operation check, and is generated by being electrically read by the needle reading machine and linked to information obtained from the needle reading machine.

[0006] A needle detector according to another aspect of the present disclosure inspects whether or not an object to be inspected contains unwanted metal. The needle detector includes: a device main body having an inspection area for inspecting the object to be inspected; a conveyor belt configured to transport the object to be inspected at least in a forward direction so that the object to be inspected passes through the inspection area; at least one metal detection unit configured to detect unwanted metal when the object to be inspected transported in the forward direction by the conveyor belt passes through the inspection area; at least one electrical information reading unit configured to read first electrical information recorded on a first tag transported together with the object to be inspected when the first tag passes through the inspection area; and an information processing unit that acquires and processes device information obtained from the needle detector, including the detection results of the metal detection unit, and the first electrical information read by the electrical information reading unit. The metal detection unit is provided to the device main body midway through the inspection area in the forward direction, and straddles the inspection area in a direction intersecting the forward direction. The electrical information reading unit is configured to read second electrical information recorded on a second tag integrally attached to a sample used in place of the test object in a pre-use operation check of the meter reading device. The information processing unit is configured to link the second electrical information read by the electrical information reading unit with the device information, thereby generating history information to be used for managing traceability of the operation check.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a needle reading device according to a first embodiment as seen from above. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a mode of checking operation before use in the needle reading device of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a test piece used as an inspection member of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a check bar used as an inspection member of FIG. 2. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a test card used as an inspection member of FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of a process for generating history information in the needle reading device of FIG. 1. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the content indicated by the history information. FIG. 8 is a plan view of a needle reading device according to a second embodiment as seen from above. FIG. 9 is a plan view of a needle reading device according to a third embodiment as seen from above. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a needle reading device according to another embodiment.

[0008] <First embodiment> An inspection member and a needle detector according to a first embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. As shown in FIG. 1 , a needle detector 10 is an inspection device that inspects whether or not unnecessary metal is mixed in a product 11 to be inspected before shipment. The product 11 is, for example, a sewn product. The unnecessary metal in the product 11 is, for example, a broken needle. In the following description, inspecting whether or not unnecessary metal is mixed in the product 11 may be simply referred to as "needle detection."

[0009] <Meter Detector> The needle detector 10 includes a device main body 20, a conveyor belt 30, a detection head 40, an RFID antenna 50, at least one photoelectric sensor 60, and a processing device 70. The device main body 20 is a rectangular parallelepiped with its height in the direction of the paper in FIG. 1 . The device main body 20 is installed movably on wheels or the like relative to the ground of an inspection space in a factory or the like. In the following description, directions expressed by terms such as "up" and "down" are defined based on the direction of gravity. The direction perpendicular to the "vertical direction" of the device main body 20, which is the vertical direction in FIG. 1, is the "width direction" of the device main body 20. The direction perpendicular to the "vertical direction" and "width direction" of the device main body 20, which is the left-right direction in FIG. 1, is the "conveying direction" of the product 11 when inspecting the product 11. The conveying direction is a forward direction from right to left in FIG. 1, or a return direction opposite to the forward direction. In the following description, the forward conveying direction may be simply referred to as the “forward direction,” and the return conveying direction may be simply referred to as the “return direction.” The device main body 20 is a base for assembling components for realizing various functions of the needle detector 10.

[0010] <Device Main Body> The device main body 20 has two side sections 21, 22 on both sides in the width direction. The side sections 21, 22 extend along the conveying direction. The side sections 21 and 22 are spaced apart in the width direction. The area between the side sections 21 and 22 in the width direction forms an inspection area 23 for inspecting the products 11. One of the two side sections 21, 22, the side section 22, has an operation input section 22a. The operation input section 22a is provided on the upstream side of the side section 22 in the forward direction. The operation input section 22a is, for example, a liquid crystal display unit. The operation input section 22a enables input of starting and stopping the needle detector 10, the type of inspection, the sensitivity of the sensor, the rotation speed and direction of the conveyor belt 30, etc., or displays the status of the needle detector 10.

[0011] <Conveyor Belt> The conveyor belt 30 is assembled between the side portions 21 and 22 in the width direction. The conveyor belt 30 is an endless belt-shaped member having a predetermined thickness. For example, the conveyor belt 30 is shorter than the distance between the two ends of the side portions 21 and 22. The width of the conveyor belt 30 is approximately the same as the widthwise distance between the side portions 21 and 22. The conveyor belt 30 is stretched over multiple rollers assembled to the device main body 20. The multiple rollers include, for example, a drive roller and a driven roller. The drive roller is rotated by the drive of a motor M provided inside the device main body 20. The driven roller is rotated by the rotational force transmitted from the drive roller. The conveyor belt 30 rotates to convey the product 11 in the conveyance direction in accordance with the rotation of the multiple rollers. The surface of the conveyor belt 30 is a conveyance surface 31 for conveying the product 11 in the conveyance direction so that the product 11 passes through the inspection area 23. The conveying surface 31 extends along the conveying direction.

[0012] <Detection Head> The detection head 40 is integrally assembled to the device main body 20 via both side portions 21, 22. The detection head 40 has two leg portions 40a extending parallel to each other at both ends, and a main body portion 40b connecting the two leg portions 40a to each other. The main body portion 40b extends along the width direction with a vertical gap relative to the conveyor belt 30, i.e., the conveying surface 31. In other words, the detection head 40 is integrally provided with the device main body 20 midway along the forward direction of the inspection area 23. The detection head 40 is provided so as to straddle the inspection area 23 in a direction perpendicular to the forward direction, i.e., in the width direction. In this embodiment, the detection head 40 is an example of a metal detection unit.

[0013] The detection head 40 divides the inspection area 23 into a plurality of sections. The inspection area 23 has a plurality of sections A1, A2, and A3 that are divided based on the detection head 40. For example, the inspection area 23 has an entrance 23a at the most upstream position in the forward direction. The inspection area 23 has an exit 23b at the most downstream position in the forward direction.

[0014] More specifically, area A1 is an area of ​​the inspection region 23 that is upstream in the forward direction relative to the detection head 40. In other words, area A1 is an area where the product 11 passes through the detection head 40 when the product 11 is transported in the forward direction. Area A1 is an area that includes the entrance 23a. For example, area A1 is an area where the product 11 is present before meter reading is performed. In this embodiment, area A1 is an example of a first area.

[0015] Area A2 is an area of ​​the inspection region 23 where the detection head 40 is located. In other words, area A2 is an area where the product 11 passes through the detection head 40 when the product 11 is transported in the forward direction. For example, area A2 is an area where meter reading is performed. In this embodiment, area A2 is an example of a second area.

[0016] Area A3 is an area of ​​the inspection region 23 that is downstream in the forward direction relative to the detection head 40. In other words, area A3 is an area after the product 11 has passed through the detection head 40 when the product 11 is transported in the forward direction. Area A3 is an area that includes the exit 23b. For example, area A3 is an area where the product 11 is present after meter reading has been performed. In this embodiment, area A3 is an example of a third area.

[0017] The detection head 40 includes a plurality of upper detection sensors 41 therein. The upper detection sensors 41 are aligned linearly along the width direction, which is the direction in which the main body 40b extends, and are provided at equal intervals. The device main body 20 includes a plurality of lower detection sensors 24 therein. The lower detection sensors 24 are aligned linearly along the width direction of the device main body 20, and are provided at equal intervals. Each upper detection sensor 41 is paired with one of the lower detection sensors 24. Each lower detection sensor 24 is disposed on the opposite side of the conveyor belt 30 from the main body 40b. The conveyor belt 30, or more specifically, the conveying surface 31, is located between each pair of upper detection sensor 41 and lower detection sensor 24.

[0018] For example, when a product 11 conveyed by the conveyor belt 30 passes by, each upper detection sensor 41 detects distortion of the magnetic field passing between each pair of the upper detection sensor 41 and the lower detection sensor 24. In this way, each upper detection sensor 41 detects whether or not unnecessary metal is mixed in the product 11. For example, the sensitivity of each upper detection sensor 41 and each lower detection sensor 24 is adjusted so that they detect unnecessary metal but do not detect metal fittings, which are metals necessary for the product 11. The sensitivity of the sensor may also be adjusted so that they detect metals other than unnecessary metals.

[0019] <RFID Antenna> The RFID antenna 50 is integrally attached to the device main body 20 via both side portions 21 and 22 at a position corresponding to area A3. The RFID antenna 50 has two legs 50a extending parallel to each other at both ends, and a main body 50b connecting the two legs 50a. The main body 50b extends along the width direction of the conveyor belt 30, i.e., the conveying surface 31, with a vertical gap. In other words, the RFID antenna 50 is integrally attached to the device main body 20 so as to be located downstream of the detection head 40 in the forward direction. The RFID antenna 50 is arranged to straddle the inspection area 23 in the width direction. The distance between the RFID antenna 50 and the detection head 40 is shorter than the distance between the RFID antenna 50 and the exit 23b of the inspection area 23. The distance between the RFID antenna 50 and the detection head 40 is shorter than the distance between the RFID antenna 50 and the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23. The area A3 includes an area A3a downstream in the forward direction of the RFID antenna 50. The length of the area A3a in the forward direction is substantially the same as the length of the area A1 in the forward direction. In this embodiment, the RFID antenna 50 is an example of an electrical information reading unit.

[0020] The RFID antenna 50 includes a radio wave transmitter 51 and an information reader 52. The radio wave transmitter 51 emits radio waves having a specific frequency. The output strength, or more specifically, the directivity, of the radio wave transmitter 51 is adjusted so that the radio waves are transmitted to products 11 passing through the RFID antenna 50. For example, the directivity of the radio waves is adjusted so that the radio waves reach a range within the internal space of the RFID antenna 50, which is a portion of area A3. In other words, the directivity of the radio waves transmitted by the radio wave transmitter 51 is adjusted so that the radio waves do not reach products 11 that do not pass through the RFID antenna 50. The information reader 52 receives and reads an ID signal transmitted from an RF tag 12 (described below) in response to the radio waves transmitted by the radio wave transmitter 51. In this way, the RFID antenna 50 detects the ID signal transmitted from the RF tag 12 (described below) in response to the radio waves transmitted by the radio wave transmitter 51.

[0021] <RF Tag> Each of the products 11 to be inspected by the needle detector 10 has an RF tag 12. For example, the RF tag 12 is directly attached to the product 11 itself, or packaged together with the product 11. In other words, each of the products 11 is transported by the transport belt 30 together with the RF tag 12. In this embodiment, the RF tag 12 is an example of a tag and a first tag.

[0022] The RF tag 12 includes an antenna and an IC chip. The antenna generates power using radio waves transmitted by the radio wave transmitter 51. The antenna is of a type appropriate for the communication method between the RFID antenna 50 and the RF tag 12. For example, if the communication method is a radio wave method, the antenna may be a plate-shaped antenna. If the communication method is an electromagnetic induction method, the antenna may be a coil-shaped antenna. The IC chip uses the power generated by the antenna to output an ID signal indicating electrical information stored therein to the outside via the antenna. The IC chip includes a memory circuit therein. The memory circuit stores electrical information related to the RF tag 12 including the IC chip. This electrical information is individual information related to the product 11 having the RF tag 12 and is an example of first electrical information. The individual information includes product information for identifying the product 11 having the RF tag 12. The product information includes, for example, information such as the product name, color, size, and / or shipping destination of the product 11. The individual information may also include manufacturing information, such as, for example, the factory or manufacturing line where the product 11 was manufactured, and / or inspection information regarding inspections performed during manufacturing.

[0023] <Photoelectric Sensor> The photoelectric sensor 60 includes a photoelectric sensor 61 and a photoelectric sensor 62. The photoelectric sensor 61 is provided corresponding to the detection head 40. That is, the photoelectric sensor 61 is a photoelectric sensor for the detection head. The photoelectric sensor 61 is provided upstream of the detection head 40 in the forward direction. That is, the detection head 40 is used in combination with the photoelectric sensor 61. The photoelectric sensor 62 is provided corresponding to the RFID antenna 50. That is, the photoelectric sensor 62 is a photoelectric sensor for the RFID antenna. That is, the RFID antenna 50 is used in combination with the photoelectric sensor 62. The photoelectric sensor 61 is, for example, a transmission type sensor having a light-emitting unit f1a and a light-receiving unit f1b as separate units. In this case, the light-emitting unit f1a and the light-receiving unit f1b may be provided on different side portions 21 and 22 so as to face each other in the width direction. The same applies to the photoelectric sensor 62. For example, the light-emitting portion f2a and the light-receiving portion f2b may be provided on different side portions 21, 22 so as to face each other in the width direction. Each of the photoelectric sensors 61, 62 may be a reflective type sensor in which the light-emitting portion and the light-receiving portion are integrally formed, or may be replaced by a proximity sensor or the like.

[0024] For example, the photoelectric sensor 61 detects that a product 11 being conveyed by the conveyor belt 30 passes between the light-emitting unit f1a and the light-receiving unit f1b. This causes the photoelectric sensor 61 to detect the presence of a product 11 that will soon pass the detection head 40 in the forward direction. This triggers the operation of the detection head 40. In other words, the detection head 40 starts detection using each upper detection sensor 41 when the photoelectric sensor 61 detects the passage of the product 11. Similarly, the photoelectric sensor 62 detects that a product 11 being conveyed by the conveyor belt 30 passes between the light-emitting unit f2a and the light-receiving unit f2b. This causes the photoelectric sensor 62 to detect the presence of a product 11 that will soon pass the RFID antenna 50 in the forward direction. This triggers the operation of the RFID antenna 50. That is, when the photoelectric sensor 62 detects the passage of the product 11, the RFID antenna 50 is triggered to start transmitting radio waves from the radio wave transmitting unit 51 and to start reading the ID signal from the information reading unit 52.

[0025] <Processing Device> The processing device 70 is disposed, for example, outside the needle reading device 10. The processing device 70 may be provided integrally with the needle reading device 10. The processing device 70 has a main controller 71 and a motor controller 72. The main controller 71 is a processing circuit consisting of a microcomputer and includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 71a. Various processes related to the operation of the needle reading device 10 are realized by the CPU 71a executing a control program. The various processes include, for example, processes related to starting and stopping the needle reading device 10, the type of inspection, the sensitivity of the sensor, control of the rotation speed and direction of the conveyor belt 30, and the results of the inspection. The main controller 71 includes a memory 71b that stores the control program. The memory 71b includes a computer-readable medium such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) and a ROM (Read Only Memory). However, the implementation of various processes by software is merely an example, and at least some of the processes may be implemented by a hardware circuit such as a logic circuit. Similarly, the motor controller 72 is a processing circuit made up of a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller).

[0026] The main controller 71 is electrically connected to the operation input unit 22a, the upper detection sensors 41, the radio wave transmitter 51, the information reader 52, and the photoelectric sensors 60 (61, 62), for example, via electric wires. The main controller 71 executes various processes based on signals input from the operation input unit 22a, the upper detection sensors 41, the radio wave transmitter 51, the information reader 52, and the photoelectric sensors 60 (61, 62). For example, the main controller 71 includes a process for instructing the motor controller 72 to rotate the conveyor belt 30 at a predetermined rotation speed in the forward or reverse direction. The motor controller 72 controls the drive of the motor M provided inside the device main body 20 based on the instruction from the main controller 71. As a result, the motor controller 72 rotates the conveyor belt 30 at a predetermined rotation speed in the forward or reverse direction.

[0027] When the main controller 71 receives a signal related to the input result of the operation input unit 22a, it executes various processes based on the signal. For example, when a signal indicating the start of the meter reading machine 10 is received, the main controller 71 starts the meter reading machine 10 and controls the display content of the operation input unit 22a so that a display indicating this is displayed.

[0028] When the main controller 71 receives a signal indicating the detection result of the photoelectric sensor 61, it determines whether or not to operate the detection head 40 based on the detection result. When determining to operate the detection head 40, the main controller 71 operates the detection head 40 by, for example, supplying power to each upper detection sensor 41, thereby inputting the detection results of each upper detection sensor 41. The main controller 71 then determines whether or not unwanted metal is present in the product 11 based on the detection results of each upper detection sensor 41. When the main controller 71 does not determine that unwanted metal is present in the product 11, it instructs the motor controller 72 to rotate the conveyor belt 30 in the forward direction at a predetermined rotation speed. On the other hand, when it determines that unwanted metal is present in the product 11, it instructs the motor controller 72 to rotate the conveyor belt 30 in the reverse direction at a predetermined rotation speed. After operating the detection head 40, the main controller 71 stops the supply of power to each upper detection sensor 41 on the condition that a predetermined period of time has passed without determining whether to operate the detection head 40. In other words, the main controller 71 stops the detection head 40.

[0029] When the main controller 71 receives a signal indicating the detection result of the photoelectric sensor 62, it determines whether to activate the RFID antenna 50 based on the signal. When determining to activate the RFID antenna 50, the main controller 71 operates the RFID antenna 50 by, for example, supplying power to the radio wave transmitter 51 and the information reader 52, thereby inputting the ID signal read by the information reader 52. The main controller 71 then executes a process to generate individual management information based on the read result of the information reader 52. The process of generating individual management information is a process for linking the individual information identified from the ID signal with the most recently performed detection results of each upper detection sensor 41. More specifically, the main controller 71 includes a process for storing the generated individual management information in the memory 71b. The main controller 71 also includes a process for linking the individual management information with the most recently performed detection environment of each upper detection sensor 41. For example, the detection environment includes the type of inspection, the sensor sensitivity, and the rotation speed of the conveyor belt 30. After activating the RFID antenna 50, the main controller 71 stops the supply of power to the radio wave transmitter 51 and the information reader 52 on the condition that a predetermined time period has passed without determining whether to activate the RFID antenna 50. In other words, the main controller 71 stops the RFID antenna 50. For example, after activating the RFID antenna 50, the main controller 71 determines that the RF tag 12 has not been detected on the condition that a predetermined time period has passed without determining whether to activate the RFID antenna 50, without reading an ID signal.

[0030] The main controller 71 controls the display content of the monitor 80 so that the content of the individual management information stored in the memory 71b can be confirmed. The monitor 80 is, for example, a liquid crystal display unit. The main controller 71 transmits the individual management information stored in the memory 71b to the server 90 via the network. In this case, the main controller 71 can also transmit the individual management information in response to a request from the server 90. The server 90 may be, for example, a stationary server or a cloud server virtually constructed on a network.

[0031] <Inspection flow with needle reading device> As shown in Figure 1, in a needle reading device 10 that has been enabled to perform needle reading, the conveyor belt 30 is rotating in the forward direction. Products 11 are placed one after another, together with RF tags 12, on the conveyor surface 31 of the conveyor belt 30 that is rotating in the forward direction near the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23. Subsequently, as the products 11 are conveyed in the forward direction through area A1, the passage of the products 11 is detected by the photoelectric sensor 61. This causes the detection head 40 to be operated, and needle reading is performed on the products 11 as they pass through area A2, more specifically, as they pass through the detection head 40 in the forward direction.

[0032] Next, if it is determined that unwanted metal is not mixed in, the photoelectric sensor 62 detects the passage of the product 11 as the product 11 passes through the detection head 40 and is transported forward through the area A3. This causes the RFID antenna 50 to operate, and an ID signal is read as the product 11 passes through the area A3, more specifically, as the product 11 passes forward through the RFID antenna 50. In this case, the transport of the product 11 to the area A3 indicates, as the movement of the needle detector 10, that the product 11 does not contain unwanted metal.

[0033] Thereafter, the product 11 is conveyed forward through the area A3, and is separated together with the RF tag 12 from the conveying surface 31 of the conveyor belt 30 rotating in the forward direction near the exit 23b of the inspection area 23. This completes the inspection of the product 11 by the needle detector 10. The inspection result, together with the individual information identified from the ID signal, is managed by the processing device 70 as individual information for management purposes. Note that if the inspection result shows that the RF tag 12 has not been detected, this fact is managed by the processing device 70.

[0034] On the other hand, if it is determined that unwanted metal has been mixed in, the conveyor belt 30 rotates in the return direction. The product 11 is returned together with the RF tag 12 from area A2 to area A1 so as not to pass through the detection head 40 and be transported to area A3. By preventing the product 11 from being transported to area A3 and returning it to area A1, the movement of the needle detector 10 indicates that unwanted metal has been mixed in the product 11. In this case, the product 11 is re-inspected by the needle detector 10, or the like.

[0035] <Operation Check Before Use> The meter reading device 10 is required to have its operation checked before use. The operation check is performed to check whether or not the detection head 40 can detect metal. The operation check is required to be performed periodically. In the operation check, if metal can be detected between any pair of the upper detection sensor 41 and the lower detection sensor 24, a result that there is no abnormality is obtained. In other words, the meter reading device 10 is configured to be able to perform meter reading on the condition that the operation check is performed periodically and a result that there is no abnormality is obtained in the operation check. In other words, the meter reading device 10 is configured to be unable to perform meter reading if the operation check is not performed periodically or if a result that there is an abnormality is obtained in the operation check.

[0036] As shown in Fig. 2, in the needle detector 10 for performing the operation check, an inspection member 100 for the operation check is used as an inspection object instead of a product 11. The inspection member 100 is placed on the conveying surface 31 of the conveying belt 30 while the rotation is stopped. In this embodiment, the inspection member 100 used for the operation check is any one of a test piece 101, a check bar 102, and a test card 103.

[0037] <Test Member> As shown in FIG. 3 , the test piece 101 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The test piece 101 has, for example, a square shape when viewed from above. The test piece 101 includes a piece-shaped member PP made of a non-magnetic material such as resin and a single test metal S made of a metal such as iron. The test metal S has a spherical or disc shape. The test metal S is provided on the upper surface PPa of the piece-shaped member PP. The upper surface PPa of the piece-shaped member PP is the surface located opposite the conveying surface 31 when the test piece 101 is placed on the conveying surface 31. The test metal S is integrally attached to the upper surface PPa, for example, by being embedded in the upper surface PPa or by being attached to the upper surface PPa via a non-magnetic material such as an adhesive. In this embodiment, the piece-shaped member PP is an example of a sample.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 4 , the check bar 102 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The check bar 102 has, for example, a rectangular shape when viewed from above. The check bar 102 includes a bar-shaped member BP made of a non-magnetic material such as resin and a granular or liquid inspection metal S. The granular or liquid inspection metal S extends linearly along the direction of extension of the bar-shaped member BP. The granular or liquid inspection metal S is applied to the upper surface BPa of the bar-shaped member BP, thereby being integrally attached to the bar-shaped member BP. The upper surface BPa of the bar-shaped member BP is the surface located opposite the conveying surface 31 when the check bar 102 is placed on the conveying surface 31. In this embodiment, the bar-shaped member BP is an example of a sample.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 5 , the test card 103 is flat. For example, the test card 103 has a rectangular shape when viewed from above. The test card 103 includes a card-shaped member CP made of a non-magnetic material such as resin and a single test metal S. The test metal S is enclosed within the card-shaped member CP. The test card 103 may be placed on the conveying surface 31 by itself or may be placed on the conveying surface 31 via a test stand 104, which serves as a jig. The test stand 104 may be cup-shaped, for example. The test stand 104 has multiple slits 104a with depths perpendicular to the height direction. The multiple slits 104a are equally spaced along the height direction. The heights of the multiple slits 104a from the conveying surface 31 increase by a constant value starting from the slit 104a closest to the conveying surface 31. When the test card 103 is inserted into one of the slits 104a, it is held at the height where the slit 104a is located. That is, when the test card 103 and the test stand 104 are used together, it is possible to check the operation at any height position from the transport surface 31. In this embodiment, the card-like member CP is an example of a sample.

[0040] As the test metal S, for example, multiple types of test pieces 101 having test metal S of different materials and / or diameters are prepared. As one example, multiple types of check bars 102 having test metal S of different granular or liquid materials are prepared. Multiple types of test cards 103 having test metal S of different materials and / or diameters are prepared.

[0041] The test piece 101, check bar 102, and test card 103 are provided with an RF tag 120. In the piece-shaped member PP, the RF tag 120 is integrally attached to the top surface PPa at the center when viewed from above. In the bar-shaped member BP, the RF tag 120 is integrally attached to the top surface BPa at the center when viewed from above. In the card-shaped member CP, the RF tag 120 is integrally attached to the top surface CPa at the center when viewed from above. Each of the top surfaces PPa, BPa, and CPa is a surface that faces the information reading unit 52 in the vertical direction when passing through the RFID antenna 50. In other words, the RF tag 120 faces the information reading unit 52 in the vertical direction when passing through the RFID antenna 50. As a result, the RF tag 120 is closest to the information reading unit 52 when passing through the RFID antenna 50. The RF tag 120 is attached to each of the upper surfaces PPa, BPa, and CPa via a non-magnetic material such as an adhesive. The RF tag 120 can also be molded integrally with each of the upper surfaces PPa, BPa, and CPa. In this embodiment, the RF tag 120 is an example of a tag and a second tag.

[0042] The RF tag 120 has the same configuration as the RF tag 12, except for the content of the electrical information stored therein. For example, the electrical information stored in the memory circuit of the RF tag 120 is serial information about the test piece 101 to which the RF tag 120 is attached, and is an example of second electrical information. The serial information about the test piece 101 is unique information whose content differs from the individual information stored in the memory circuit of the RF tag 12. The serial information is linked to information about the material and diameter of the test metal S, i.e., identification information that identifies the test metal S. In addition, the serial information is linked to information about the test piece 101, the check bar 102, and the test card 103, i.e., identification information that identifies the test member 100.

[0043] <Flow of Operation Check> After starting up the meter reading machine 10, the operator sets a state for performing an operation check by controlling the display content of the operation input unit 22a. When setting a state for performing an operation check, the main controller 71 controls the display content of the operation input unit 22a so that a display related to the operation check is displayed. The states for performing an operation check include a state for performing an operation check using the test piece 101, a state for performing an operation check using the check bar 102, and a state for performing an operation check using the test card 103.

[0044] 2 , for example, in checking the operation using the test piece 101, the main controller 71 sets a state for checking the operation using the test piece 101. The main controller 71 controls the motor controller 72, the detection head 40, the RFID antenna 50, etc. so as to enter a state for checking the operation using the test piece 101.

[0045] Specifically, the test piece 101 is placed on the conveying surface 31 of the conveyor belt 30 together with the RF tag 120 so as to be in an initial position. The initial position is, for example, a position identified by a positioning jig or the like, and is a position near the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23 and adjacent to the side portion 22. After the test piece 101 has been placed in the initial position, the conveyor belt 30 rotates in the forward direction through an operation by an operator on the operation input unit 22a. Subsequently, as the test piece 101 is conveyed in the forward direction through the area A1, the photoelectric sensor 61 detects the passage of the test piece 101. This causes the detection head 40 to be operated, thereby detecting the metal S to be inspected as the test piece 101 passes through the area A2, more specifically, as the test piece 101 passes through the detection head 40 in the forward direction.

[0046] Subsequently, regardless of whether the metal to be inspected S is detected or not, as the test piece 101 passes through the detection head 40 and is transported forward through the area A3, the photoelectric sensor 62 detects the passage of the test piece 101. This activates the RFID antenna 50, thereby reading the ID signal as the test piece 101 passes through the area A3, more specifically, as the test piece 101 passes forward through the RFID antenna 50. Thereafter, the transport belt 30 rotates in the return direction. The test piece 101, together with the RF tag 120, is returned to the initial position.

[0047] Next, the test piece 101 is placed on the conveying surface 31 of the conveyor belt 30 together with the RF tag 120 so that it is at the second position. The second position is, for example, a position identified by a positioning jig or the like, near the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23 and a position spaced a predetermined distance from the side portion 22 relative to the initial position. The predetermined distance is set taking into consideration the distance between each pair of the upper detection sensor 41 and the lower detection sensor 24 and the sensitivity of the sensors. After the test piece 101 has been placed at the second position, the test piece 101 is conveyed in the forward and backward directions through an operator's operation on the operation input unit 22a. Thereafter, each time the position of the test piece 101 is shifted away from the side portion 22, such as to the third position or the fourth position, the test piece 101 is repeatedly conveyed in the forward and backward directions.

[0048] The main controller 71 inputs the detection results of the metal S to be inspected by the detection head 40 and the reading results of the ID signal by the information reading unit 52 for each position of the test piece 101 each time the test piece 101 is repeatedly transported in the forward and return directions.

[0049] As a result, the main controller 71 generates history information by linking the ID signal, i.e., serial information, which is the reading result of the information reading unit 52, with the equipment information, which is information obtained from the needle reading machine 10. The equipment information includes information on a timestamp recorded when an operation check is performed, information on the detection result of the metal S to be inspected by the detection head 40, and setting information on the environment of the needle reading machine 10. The setting information on the environment of the needle reading machine 10 includes the sensitivity of the sensor and the rotation speed of the conveyor belt 30. In this embodiment, the main controller 71, i.e., the processing device 70, is an example of an information processing unit.

[0050] The flow of operation check using the check bar 102 is substantially the same as that of operation check using the test piece 101, except for the method of installing the check bar 102, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted. That is, the initial position of the check bar 102 is, for example, near the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23, between the two side sections 21 and 22, where the check bar 102 is arranged so that it extends in the width direction. Furthermore, the flow of operation check using the test card 103 is substantially the same as that of operation check using the test piece 101, except that a test stand 104 may be used, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0051] <Processing related to generation of history information> In the processing related to generation of history information, the main controller 71 rotates the conveyor belt 30 in the forward and reverse directions by detecting an operation by an operator while setting a state for performing an operation check.

[0052] As shown in Figure 6, when the main controller 71 inputs the detection results of the metal S to be inspected by the detection head 40 (step S10), it refers to the timestamp along with the detection results of the metal S to be inspected, and also refers to the setting information (step S12).

[0053] Next, when the main controller 71 receives the ID signal from the information reading unit 52 (step S14), it checks the identification information linked to the serial information based on the ID signal stored in the memory 71b (step S16).

[0054] Next, the main controller 71 generates history information for the ID signal input in step S14 by linking the identification information verified in step S16, the detection results of the test metal S input in step S10, and the setting information referenced in step S12 (step S18). In step S18, the main controller 71 stores the generated history information in memory 71b. Note that, in the case of operation confirmation using the test piece 101 or the test card 103, the detection results of the test metal S may be the results for each position on the test piece 101, or may be a combined result of the results for all positions. Furthermore, the main controller 71 may transmit the generated history information to the server 90 via a network.

[0055] 7, the history information is stored as a combination of serial information, information on the inspection member 100, information on the material and diameter of the inspection metal S, information on the timestamp, information on the detection results of the inspection metal S, and a set of setting information. The history information stored in the memory 71b is managed so that the contents can be confirmed by being output to the monitor 80 under the control of the operation input unit 22a by the operator. Furthermore, the history information transmitted to the server 90 may be managed so that it can be acquired under the control of the operation input unit 22a by the operator.

[0056] After processing in step S18, the main controller 71 determines whether or not there is any abnormality in the operation check (step S20). In step S20, the main controller 71 determines that there is no abnormality in the operation check if the result of detecting the metal S to be inspected is obtained between any pair of the upper detection sensor 41 and the lower detection sensor 24. On the other hand, the main controller 71 determines that there is an abnormality in the operation check if the result of detecting the metal S to be inspected is not obtained between any pair of the upper detection sensor 41 and the lower detection sensor 24.

[0057] Next, when the main controller 71 determines that there is no abnormality in the operation check (step S20: YES), it completes the operation check to transition the meter reading device 10 to a state in which meter reading can be performed.

[0058] On the other hand, if the main controller 71 determines that there is an abnormality in the operation check (step S20: NO), it marks the operation check as incomplete so as not to transition the meter reading device 10 to a state in which meter reading can be performed. In this case, the meter reading device 10 needs to perform the operation check again.

[0059] <Operation of the Present Embodiment> According to the present embodiment, when an operation check is performed using the inspection member 100 as an inspection target, the RF tag 120 is also subjected to inspection together with the inspection member 100. The electrical information recorded in the RF tag 120 is electrically read by the needle detector 10, i.e., the RFID antenna 50. This electrical information is unlikely to deteriorate to the point where the serial information cannot be correctly identified, even if the inspection member 100 is used repeatedly. In other words, the serial information linked to the inspection member 100 via the RF tag 120 can be said to be suitable for generating history information to be used for traceability management.

[0060] <Effects of the embodiment> (1-1) By generating history information used for traceability management based on serial information linked to the inspection member 100 via the RF tag 120, it is possible to properly ensure operation confirmation, i.e., to properly manage traceability. Therefore, it is possible to provide a meter reading device 10 that excels in traceability management.

[0061] (1-2) The history information is generated by linking the serial information obtained from the RF tag 120 with the information obtained from the meter reading device 10. As a result, the meter reading device 10 can manage the traceability of operation confirmation by collating the information readable from the RF tag 120.

[0062] (1-3) The device information obtained from the needle reading device 10 includes information on the timestamp recorded when an operation check is performed, information on the detection result of the metal S to be inspected, and setting information on the environment of the needle reading device 10. As a result, the serial information is linked to the information on the timestamp recorded when an operation check is performed, information on the detection result of the metal S to be inspected, and setting information on the environment of the needle reading device 10. In other words, when the inspection member 100 is used, the traceability of the operation check can be easily and accurately managed.

[0063] (1-4) Even if the inspection component 100 is the test piece 101, it is possible to link the serial information with the device information. This makes it possible to provide a system that excels in managing the traceability of operation confirmation to workers who work using the test piece 101.

[0064] (1-5) Even if the inspection member 100 is a check bar 102, it is possible to link the serial information with the device information. This makes it possible to provide a system that excels in managing the traceability of operation confirmation to workers who work using the check bar 102.

[0065] (1-6) Even if the testing component 100 is a test card 103, it is possible to link the serial information with the device information. This makes it possible to provide a system that excels in managing the traceability of operation checks to workers who use the test card 103.

[0066] (1-7) In the operation check, the worker only needs to perform the tasks related to controlling the display content of the operation input unit 22a and the tasks related to placing the test piece 101, the check bar 102, and the test card 103. In other words, the worker's workload is reduced. This leads to a reduction in the worker's intervention in generating history information. This makes it possible to standardize the management of history information, i.e., the traceability of operation check. Therefore, it is possible to improve the reliability of the management of traceability of operation check.

[0067] Second Embodiment The second embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment. For ease of explanation, the same components as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 8 , the RFID antenna 50 according to this embodiment is integrally attached to the device main body 20 via both side portions 21 and 22 at a position corresponding to the area A1. That is, the RFID antenna 50 is integrally provided with the device main body 20 so as to be located upstream of the detection head 40 in the forward direction. Accordingly, the photoelectric sensor 62 according to this embodiment is provided upstream of the detection head 40 and the photoelectric sensor 61 in the forward direction. The RFID antenna 50 is disposed in the area A1. The distance between the RFID antenna 50 and the detection head 40 is shorter than the distance between the RFID antenna 50 and the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23. The distance between the RFID antenna 50 and the detection head 40 is shorter than the distance between the RFID antenna 50 and the exit 23b of the inspection area 23. The area A1 includes an area A1a upstream of the RFID antenna 50 in the forward direction. The length of the area A1a along the forward direction is substantially the same as the length of the area A3 along the forward direction. For example, the directivity of the radio waves from the radio wave transmitter 51 of the RFID antenna 50 is adjusted so that the radio waves are transmitted within the range of the internal space of the RFID antenna 50, which is a part of the area A1.

[0069] The main controller 71 according to this embodiment executes a process for generating individual information for management purposes based on the reading result of the information reading unit 52. The process for generating individual information for management purposes is a process for linking the individual information identified from the ID signal with the detection results and detection environment of each upper detection sensor 41, which are performed immediately afterward.

[0070] 8, near the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23, products 11, each together with an RF tag 12, are placed one after another on the conveying surface 31 of the conveyor belt 30 rotating in the forward direction, and as they are conveyed forward through the area A1, their passage is detected by the photoelectric sensor 62. This activates the RFID antenna 50, and the ID signal is read as the product 11 passes by the RFID antenna 50 in the forward direction.

[0071] Subsequently, as the product 11, whose ID signal has been read, passes through the RFID antenna 50 and is transported forward through the area A1, the passage of the product 11 is detected by the photoelectric sensor 61. This causes the detection head 40 to operate, and the product 11 is read as it passes the detection head 40 in the forward direction.

[0072] Next, if it is determined that no unwanted metal is mixed in, the product 11 is conveyed forward through the area A3, and is separated together with the RF tag 12 from the conveying surface 31 of the conveying belt 30 rotating in the forward direction near the exit 23b of the inspection area 23. This completes the inspection of the product 11 by the needle detector 10.

[0073] On the other hand, if it is determined that unwanted metals are present, the product 11 is returned from area A2 to area A1 together with the RF tag 12, and a reinspection of the product 11 is performed using the needle detector 10. For example, when the product 11 is returned from area A2 to area A1 together with the RF tag 12, the processing device 70 may link the result of determining that unwanted metals are present to the individual information identified from the read ID signal. Alternatively, when the product 11 is returned from area A2 to area A1 together with the RF tag 12, the processing device 70 may return the conveyor belt 30 to a range where the RF tag 12 can be detected by the RFID antenna 50. When the processing device 70 determines that the same ID signal has been read consecutively by the RFID antenna 50, the processing device 70 may prepare for a reinspection by, for example, deleting information related to the individual information identified from the ID signal. In these cases, the specified time period after the RFID antenna 50 is operated until the power supply to the radio wave transmitting unit 51 and the information reading unit 52 is stopped should be set taking into account that the product 11 will be returned from area A2 to area A1 together with the RF tag 12.

[0074] <Flow of Operation Check> For example, after the test piece 101 has been placed in its initial position, the conveyor belt 30 rotates in the forward direction through an operation by an operator on the operation input unit 22a. Subsequently, as the test piece 101 is conveyed in the forward direction through the area A1, the photoelectric sensor 62 detects the passage of the test piece 101. This activates the RFID antenna 50, and the ID signal is read as the test piece 101 passes the RFID antenna 50 in the forward direction.

[0075] Next, as the test piece 101, from which the ID signal has been read, passes through the RFID antenna 50 and is transported forward through the area A1, the photoelectric sensor 61 detects the passage of the test piece 101. This activates the detection head 40, thereby detecting the metal S to be inspected as the test piece 101 passes forward through the detection head 40. The conveyor belt 30 then rotates in the return direction. The test piece 101 is returned to its initial position together with the RF tag 120. Furthermore, each time the position of the test piece 101 is shifted away from the side portion 22 relative to its initial position, the test piece 101 is repeatedly transported in the forward and return directions. In this case, in the process related to generating history information, the main controller 71 reverses the order of the processes of steps S10 and S12 and the processes of steps S14 and S16. The flow of the operation check using the check bar 102 is substantially similar to the operation check using the test piece 101, except for the manner in which the check bar 102 is installed, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the flow of operation check using test card 103 is essentially the same as that of operation check using test piece 101, except that test stand 104 may be used, so detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0076] According to the second embodiment described above, actions and effects similar to those of the first embodiment can be obtained. <Third Embodiment> The third embodiment will now be described with reference to the drawings, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment. For ease of explanation, the same components as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and their description will be omitted.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 9 , this embodiment has a configuration in which the configuration of the second embodiment is added to the configuration of the first embodiment. Specifically, the RFID antenna 50 according to this embodiment includes a first RFID antenna 53 and a second RFID antenna 54. The first RFID antenna 53 has the same configuration as the RFID antenna 50 of the second embodiment. The second RFID antenna 54 has the same configuration as the RFID antenna 50 of the first embodiment. The area A1 includes an area A1a located upstream in the forward direction relative to the first RFID antenna 53. The area A3 includes an area A3a located downstream in the forward direction relative to the second RFID antenna 54. The length of the area A1a along the forward direction is substantially the same as the length of the area A3a along the forward direction. In this embodiment, the first RFID antenna 53 is an example of a first individual information detection unit, and the second RFID antenna 54 is an example of a second individual information detection unit.

[0078] The photoelectric sensor 62 according to this embodiment includes a first photoelectric sensor 63 and a second photoelectric sensor 64. The first photoelectric sensor 63 is provided corresponding to the first RFID antenna 53. The first photoelectric sensor 63 is a photoelectric sensor for the first RFID antenna. The second photoelectric sensor 64 is provided corresponding to the second RFID antenna 54. The second photoelectric sensor 64 is a photoelectric sensor for the second RFID antenna.

[0079] The main controller 71 according to this embodiment executes a process for generating individual information for management purposes based on the results of reading by the information reading units 52 of both RFID antennas 53 and 54. The process for generating individual information for management purposes is a process for linking the detection results and detection environment of each upper detection sensor 41 to the individual information identified from the ID signal.

[0080] 9, near the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23, products 11 placed one after another together with RF tags 12 on the conveying surface 31 of the conveyor belt 30 rotating in the forward direction are conveyed forward through the area A1, and the passage of the products 11 is detected by the photoelectric sensor 63. This activates the first RFID antenna 53, and the ID signal is read when the product 11 passes the first RFID antenna 53 in the forward direction.

[0081] Subsequently, as the product 11, whose ID signal has been read, passes through the first RFID antenna 53 and is transported forward through the area A1, the passage of the product 11 is detected by the photoelectric sensor 61. This causes the detection head 40 to operate, and the product 11 is read as it passes the detection head 40 in the forward direction.

[0082] Next, if it is determined that no unwanted metal is present, the product 11 passes through the detection head 40 and is conveyed forward through zone A3, and the photoelectric sensor 64 detects the passage of the product 11. This activates the second RFID antenna 54, and the ID signal is read as the product 11 passes forward through the second RFID antenna 54. Thereafter, as the product 11 is conveyed forward through zone A3, it separates together with the RF tag 12 from the conveying surface 31 of the conveyor belt 30, which is rotating forward, near the exit 23b of the inspection area 23. This completes the inspection of the product 11 by the needle detector 10.

[0083] On the other hand, if it is determined that unnecessary metals are mixed in, the product 11 is returned from area A2 to area A1 together with the RF tag 12, and a reinspection or the like of the product 11 is performed by the needle detector 10. For example, when the product 11 is returned from area A2 to area A1 together with the RF tag 12, the processing device 70 can identify an ID signal that is detected by the first RFID antenna 53 and not detected by the second RFID antenna 54. In this case, the processing device 70 may link the result of determining that unnecessary metals are mixed in to the individual information recognized from the identified ID signal. The processing device 70 may prepare for a reinspection or the like by, for example, deleting information related to the individual information recognized from the identified ID signal.

[0084] <Flow of Operation Check> For example, after the test piece 101 has been placed in its initial position, the conveyor belt 30 rotates in the forward direction through an operation by an operator on the operation input unit 22a. Subsequently, as the test piece 101 is conveyed in the forward direction through the area A1, the photoelectric sensor 63 detects the passage of the test piece 101. This activates the first RFID antenna 53, and the ID signal is read when the test piece 101 passes the first RFID antenna 53 in the forward direction.

[0085] Next, as the test piece 101, whose ID signal has been read, passes through the first RFID antenna 53 and is transported forward through the area A1, the photoelectric sensor 61 detects the passage of the test piece 101. This activates the detection head 40, thereby detecting the metal S to be inspected as the test piece 101 passes forward through the detection head 40. The conveyor belt 30 then rotates in the return direction. The test piece 101 is returned to its initial position together with the RF tag 120. Furthermore, each time the position of the test piece 101 is shifted away from the side portion 22 relative to its initial position, the test piece 101 is repeatedly transported in the forward and return directions. In this case, in the process related to generating history information, the main controller 71 reverses the order of the processes of steps S10 and S12 and the processes of steps S14 and S16. The flow of the operation check using the check bar 102 is substantially similar to the operation check using the test piece 101, except for the manner in which the check bar 102 is installed, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the flow of operation check using test card 103 is essentially the same as that of operation check using test piece 101, except that test stand 104 may be used, so detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0086] According to the third embodiment described above, the same actions and effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained. <Other Embodiments> The above embodiments may be modified as follows. In addition, the following other embodiments can be combined with each other within the scope of not causing technical contradiction.

[0087] In each embodiment, the serial information may be identification information that identifies the metal for testing S. The serial information may be identification information that identifies the testing member 100.

[0088] In the test piece 101 of each embodiment, the test metal S may be a test card 103 attached to the top surface PPa of the piece-shaped member PP. In the test piece 101 of each embodiment, the RF tag 120 may be offset from the center when viewed from above, as long as it is attached to the top surface PPa. The other embodiments described here can be similarly applied to the bar-shaped member BP or the card-shaped member CP.

[0089] In the test piece 101 of each embodiment, the RF tag 120 may be integrally attached to a surface other than the top surface PPa. The other embodiments described here can be similarly applied to the bar-shaped member BP or the card-shaped member CP.

[0090] In the test piece 101 of each embodiment, the metal for testing S may be provided on a surface other than the upper surface PPa. The other embodiments described here can be similarly applied to the bar-shaped member BP or the card-shaped member CP.

[0091] In each embodiment, the equipment information may include at least one of the timestamp recorded when the operation check is performed, the detection result of the metal S to be inspected by the detection head 40, and setting information related to the environment of the needle detector 10.

[0092] In each embodiment, the setting information may include at least one of the sensitivity of the sensor and the rotation speed of the conveyor belt 30. In the first embodiment, the process of step S12 in FIG. 6 may be performed immediately before or immediately after the process of step S16. The other embodiments described herein can be similarly applied to the second and third embodiments. For example, in the second embodiment, the process of step S16 is performed before the processes of steps S10 and S12, but may be performed immediately before or immediately after the process of step S12.

[0093] In the first embodiment, of the two photoelectric sensors 61, 62, the photoelectric sensor 61 located on the upstream side in the forward direction may have the function of the photoelectric sensor 62. For example, the RFID antenna 50 operates in response to the detection of the passage of the product 11 by the photoelectric sensor 61 as a trigger. In this case, the photoelectric sensor 62 can be omitted. In other words, the needle detector 10 only needs to have one photoelectric sensor 60. In the other embodiments described herein, for example, as shown in FIG. 10, the RFID antenna 50 may be adjacent to the detection head 40 on the downstream side in the forward direction.

[0094] In the first embodiment, the RFID antenna 50 may be positioned in the area A3 so that the distance between the RFID antenna 50 and the detection head 40 is greater than the distance between the RFID antenna 50 and the exit 23b of the inspection area 23.

[0095] In the second embodiment, of the two photoelectric sensors 61, 62, the photoelectric sensor 62 located on the upstream side in the forward direction may have the function of the photoelectric sensor 61. For example, the detection head 40 operates in response to the photoelectric sensor 62 detecting the passage of the product 11 as a trigger. In this case, the photoelectric sensor 61 can be omitted. In other words, the needle detector 10 only needs to have one photoelectric sensor 60. In the other embodiments described herein, for example, as shown in FIG. 10, the RFID antenna 50 may be adjacent to the detection head 40 on the upstream side in the forward direction.

[0096] In the second embodiment, the RFID antenna 50 may be positioned in the area A1 so that the distance between the RFID antenna 50 and the detection head 40 is greater than the distance between the RFID antenna 50 and the entrance 23a of the inspection area 23.

[0097] In the third embodiment, in the operation check, instead of reading the ID signal with the first RFID antenna 53, the ID signal may be read with the second RFID antenna 54. For example, as the test piece 101 passes through the detection head 40 and is transported forward through the area A3, the photoelectric sensor 64 detects the passage of the test piece 101. This activates the second RFID antenna 54, and the ID signal is read as the test piece 101 passes forward past the second RFID antenna 54. Thereafter, the conveyor belt 30 rotates in the return direction. The test piece 101 may be returned to the initial position together with the RF tag 120.

[0098] In the third embodiment, the first photoelectric sensor 63, which is located most upstream in the forward direction of the two photoelectric sensors 61, 62 (63, 64), may have the functions of the photoelectric sensor 61 and the second photoelectric sensor 64. For example, the detection head 40 is triggered to operate when the photoelectric sensor 63 detects the passage of the product 11. The second RFID antenna 54 is triggered to operate when the photoelectric sensor 63 detects the passage of the product 11. In this case, the photoelectric sensor 61 and the second photoelectric sensor 64 can be eliminated. That is, the needle detector 10 only needs to have one photoelectric sensor 60. In the other embodiments described herein, for example, as shown in FIG. 10 , the first RFID antenna 53 may be adjacent to the detection head 40 on the upstream side in the forward direction. The second RFID antenna 54 may be adjacent to the detection head 40 on the downstream side in the forward direction.

[0099] In the third embodiment, the first RFID antenna 53 may be disposed in the area A1 so that the distance between the first RFID antenna 53 and the detection head 40 is greater than the distance between the first RFID antenna 53 and the entrance 23 a of the inspection area 23. Furthermore, the second RFID antenna 54 may be disposed in the area A3 so that the distance between the second RFID antenna 54 and the detection head 40 is greater than the distance between the second RFID antenna 54 and the exit 23 b of the inspection area 23.

[0100] In each embodiment, the photoelectric sensor 60 may be omitted. In other words, the meter reading device 10 does not need to have the photoelectric sensor 60. In the other embodiments described herein, the detection head 40 and the RFID antenna 50 (53, 54) may be configured to operate, for example, in response to the activation of the meter reading device 10 as a trigger, and to continue operating while the meter reading device 10 is activated.

[0101] In each embodiment, the main controller 71 may stop the rotation of the conveyor belt 30 when it determines that unnecessary metal is mixed in the product 11. In this case, the main controller 71 may rotate the conveyor belt 30 in the return direction through input from the operation input unit 22 a.

[0102] In each embodiment, the detection head 40 may be provided so as to straddle the inspection area 23 in a direction intersecting the forward direction. In each embodiment, the RFID antenna 50 (53, 54) may be provided separately from the device main body 20. In this case, the RFID antenna 50 (53, 54) may be provided at a fixed position corresponding to the device main body 20 when the needle detector 10 is in use. In other words, the RFID antenna 50 (53, 54) may be provided detachably to the device main body 20.

[0103] In each embodiment, the association of the information obtained in connection with the meter reading with the product 11 may be performed by the server 90 or a processing device connected to the processing device 70 via a network. In this case, the processing device 70 only needs to have the function of generating the information obtained in connection with the meter reading and the individual information identified from the ID signal. The processing device connected to the processing device 70 via a network may be, for example, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, etc. The other embodiments described herein can also be similarly applied to the generation of history information and the management of traceability.

[0104] In each embodiment, the RFID antenna 50 may have a shield to prevent leakage of radio waves emitted by the radio wave transmitter 51 from within the range of its internal space. In each embodiment, the RFID antenna 50 may be provided integrally with the detection head 40. In other words, the detection head 40 may include the radio wave transmitter 51 and the information reader 52 that constitute the RFID antenna 50.

[0105] In each embodiment, the needle detector 10 may include at least one detection head 40, and may include, for example, two detection heads, a first detection head and a second detection head. In one example, the first detection head and the second detection head may be arranged such that the RFID antenna 50 is located between them in the forward direction.

[0106] In each embodiment, area A1 of the inspection area 23 may be defined as an area indicating that unwanted metals may be present in the product 11 before meter reading. In this case, areas A2 and A3 may be defined as areas indicating that unwanted metals may not be present in the product 11 after meter reading. In the other embodiments described herein, the inspection area 23 may include at least one "area indicating that unwanted metals may not be present in the product 11" and one "area indicating that unwanted metals may be present in the product 11." For example, the "area where meter reading is performed" and the "area indicating that unwanted metals may be present in the product 11" may at least partially overlap. In the first embodiment, the "area indicating that unwanted metals may not be present in the product 11" may be an area downstream of the RFID antenna 50, i.e., area A3a. In the second embodiment, the "area indicating that unwanted metals may be present in the product 11" may be an area upstream of the RFID antenna 50, i.e., area A1a. These are also the same in the third embodiment, and the "area indicating that there is no possibility that unnecessary metal has been mixed into product 11" may be area A3a, and the "area indicating that there is a possibility that unnecessary metal has been mixed into product 11" may be area A1a.

Claims

1. An inspection component used to check the operation of a needle reading machine before use to check whether or not unnecessary metals are mixed in the object being inspected, the inspection component comprising: a sample used in place of the object being inspected during the operation check; and a tag on which electrical information is recorded, the tag being attached to the sample so that it is subjected to inspection together with the sample, the electrical information being information for generating history information used to manage traceability regarding the operation check, the inspection component being generated by being electrically read by the needle reading machine and linked to information obtained from the needle reading machine.

2. The inspection component according to claim 1, wherein the electrical information includes serial information of the tag, and the history information is configured to be generated by linking the serial information with information obtained from the meter reading device.

3. An inspection component as described in claim 2, wherein the information obtained from the meter reading machine is configured to include at least one of information regarding a timestamp recorded when the operation check is performed, information regarding the results of the operation check, and information regarding the environment of the meter reading machine when the operation check is performed.

4. The test member according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the sample is one selected from a plurality of samples containing test metals of different materials, shapes, and / or sizes, a single tag is attached to each of the plurality of samples, and the electrical information includes identification information for identifying the test metal.

5. The testing element according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the sample is a piece-like element containing a metal to be tested, a single tag is attached to the piece-like element, and the electrical information includes identification information for identifying the metal to be tested.

6. The testing member according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the sample is a bar-shaped member containing a metal to be tested, a single tag is attached to the bar-shaped member, and the electrical information includes identification information for identifying the metal to be tested.

7. The testing member according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the sample is a card-like member containing a metal to be tested, a single tag is attached to the card-like member, and the electrical information includes identification information for identifying the metal to be tested.

8. A needle detector for inspecting whether or not unnecessary metals are present in an object to be inspected, comprising: a device main body having an inspection area for inspecting the object to be inspected; a conveyor belt configured to transport the object to be inspected at least in a forward direction so that the object to be inspected passes through the inspection area; at least one metal detection unit configured to detect unnecessary metals when the object to be inspected transported in the forward direction by the conveyor belt passes through the inspection area; at least one electrical information reading unit configured to read first electrical information recorded on a first tag transported together with the object to be inspected when the first tag passes through the inspection area; and an information processing unit configured to acquire and process equipment information obtained from the needle detector, including the detection results of the metal detection unit, and the first electrical information read by the electrical information reading unit, wherein the metal detection unit is provided to the device main body midway through the inspection area in the forward direction, and straddles the inspection area in a direction intersecting the forward direction, The electrical information reading unit is configured to read second electrical information recorded on a second tag integrally attached to a sample used in place of the test object when checking the operation of the meter reading machine before use, and the information processing unit is configured to link the second electrical information read by the electrical information reading unit with the equipment information, thereby generating history information to be used for managing traceability of the operation check.

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