A metal classification device

Abstract

The invention relates to a metal classification device (10) for classifying the material of metal plates comprising at least one light emitter (400) that emits light onto the metal object (600) to be tested; at least one light sensor (300) that receives the light reflected from the metal object (600); and a processor unit (700) that classifies which metal is contained in the metal object (600) by using the measurements received from the light sensor (300). Accordingly, it comprises a detection platform (100) that carries the light emitters (400) and the light sensor (300); at least one noise-reducing wall (500) extending from the detection platform (100) and positioned between the light emitters (400) and the light sensor (300) in order to prevent the light emitted from the light emitter (400) from directly reaching the light sensor (300); side walls (101 ) extending from the detection platform (100) so as to enclose the light emitters (400) and the light sensor (300), and to prevent external light from reaching the light emitters (400), the light sensor (300), and the metal object (600) to be tested.

Description

[0001] A METAL CLASSIFICATION DEVICE

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The invention relates to a metal classification device for classifying the material of metal plates comprising at least one light emitter that emits light onto the metal object to be tested; at least one light sensor that receives the light reflected from the metal object; and a processor unit that classifies which metal is contained in the metal object by using the measurements received from the light sensor.

[0004] PRIOR ART

[0005] Accurate identification of metal types in metallic materials plays a critical role in many fields ranging from industrial production to recycling. The type of metal determines fundamental properties of the material such as durability, flexibility, and conductivity, and also directly affects the processing methods and fields of application. Therefore, knowing which metal a metallic material is made of is of great importance for both manufacturers and end users.

[0006] Accurate analysis of the properties of metallic materials is critically important for the smooth continuation of production processes. Different metals have various advantages and disadvantages in terms of processing, durability, and cost. Therefore, incorrect identification and classification of the properties of a metal may lead to a decrease in product quality and disruptions in the production process.

[0007] Today, various methods are used to analyze and classify the properties of metallic materials. However, these methods often result in lengthy and costly analysis and classification processes. In addition, since classification processes can be carried out manually, the likelihood of misclassification due to human error increases. Therefore, there is a need for more precise, faster, and cost-effective classification systems. Application number US9274052B2 relates to a method for classifying metal materials based on their surface reflectance properties. In the method, metal materials are classified by analyzing the specular reflections of metal materials with multi-angle and multispectral imaging. However, in the US9274052B2 patent document, the light used when analyzing the reflection properties of metal materials can come directly to the sensor. Since this causes errors and inaccuracies in the measurement, the accuracy of the measurement results decreases. In addition, measurements require high hardware requirements and complex data processing processes. This increases the cost and complicates the analysis, especially for industrial applications.

[0008] All the problems mentioned above have made it necessary to make an innovation in the relevant technical field as a result.

[0009] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present invention relates to a metal classification device eliminate the above- mentioned disadvantages and bring new advantages to the relevant technical field.

[0011] An object of the invention is to provide a metal classification device for grading the material of plates with improved accuracy and reduced noise impact.

[0012] To achieve all the objects mentioned above and that will emerge from the following detailed description, the invention is a metal classification device for classifying the material of metal plates comprising at least one light emitter that emits light onto the metal object to be tested; at least one light sensor that receives the light reflected from the metal object; a processor unit that classifies which metal is contained in the metal object by using the measurements received from the light sensor. Accordingly, it comprises a detection platform that carries the light emitters and the light sensor; at least one noise-reducing wall extending from the detection platform, positioned between the light emitters and the light sensor in order to prevent the light emitted from the light emitter from directly reaching the light sensor; side walls extending from the detection platform so as to enclose the light emitters and the light sensor, and to prevent external light from reaching the light emitters, the light sensor, and the metal object to be tested. Thus, by preventing the light from passing directly from the light emitters to the light sensors, noise is reduced and a classification with increased accuracy is achieved.

[0013] A possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising the surface of the detection platform facing the object is black in color. Thus, the rate of incorrect classifications is reduced by preventing light in colors that may be contained in the metal from reflecting off the walls onto the object.

[0014] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising the surface of the detection platform facing the object is made of a matte material.

[0015] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising the inner surfaces of the side walls are black in color. Thus, reflection-induced optical distortions are prevented, ensuring that only the light coming from the tested metal object is accurately detected.

[0016] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising the inner surfaces of the side walls are made of a matte material. Thus, unwanted light effects caused by reflections are minimized, thereby ensuring measurement accuracy.

[0017] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising a test opening positioned opposite the detection platform, which is closed when the metal object or a carrier carrying the metal object is placed. Thus, during testing, light coming from the external environment is largely or completely blocked, thereby increasing the accuracy of the measurements.

[0018] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising at least one of a red light emitter, a blue light emitter, a green light emitter, an infrared light emitter, and a white light emitter; the light sensor is configured to detect the wavelengths of the light emitters. Thus, by detecting light at different wavelengths, the metal object is analyzed in a more precise and comprehensive manner. Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising a light emitter that emits light with a center wavelength of 465 nm; a light emitter that emits light with a center wavelength of 523 nm; a light emitter that emits light with a center wavelength of 615 nm; a light emitter that emits light with a center wavelength of 665 nm; a light emitter that emits light with a center wavelength of 850 nm. Thus, by using light in different colors across a wide spectral range, the properties of the metal object can be classified more accurately. In addition, metals such as copper, stainless steel, brass, aluminum, and black sheet metal can be correctly distinguished from one another.

[0019] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising the light emitters are arranged around the light sensor. Thus, by enabling the detection of reflections from all angles, the surface properties of the metal object are determined more precisely. The influence of potential stains or irregularities on the metal surface on the classification result is reduced.

[0020] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising the light emitters are arranged in a manner forming a ring around the light sensor. Thus, the reflection data from the metal object is collected equally from all directions, allowing for more accurate and consistent measurements.

[0021] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising the light emitters comprise array groups including one of each of a red light emitter, a blue light emitter, a green light emitter, an infrared light emitter, and a white light emitter; the mentioned array groups are arranged around the light sensor. Thus, by using light at different wavelengths, the surface properties of the metal object are accurately analyzed, enabling proper classification.

[0022] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising the light emitters are positioned at an equal distance from the light sensor. Thus, the reflection signals received by the sensor are collected in a balanced manner, allowing the accuracy and precision of the measurement results to be improved. Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising the processor unit is configured to perform classification using a classification algorithm. Thus, the classification of metal objects is performed with high accuracy and efficiency provided by the classification algorithm.

[0023] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising the detection platform is an electronic board.

[0024] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising the metal object is a metal plate.

[0025] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 is a drawing illustrating schematic view of the metal classification device.

[0027] Figure 2 is a drawing illustrating schematic view of the metal classification device from a different angle.

[0028] Figure 3 is a drawing illustrating schematic view of the metal classification device from a different angle.

[0029] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] In this detailed description, the subject matter is explained with references to examples without forming any restrictive effect only in order to make the subject more understandable.

[0031] The invention relates to a metal classification device (10) for classifying the material of metal plates. Referring to Figure 1 , the metal classification device (10) comprises at least one light emitter (400) that emits light onto the metal object (600) to be tested in order to classify the material of the metal plates. The metal classification device (10) comprises at least one light sensor (300) that receives the light reflected from the metal object (600). The metal classification device (10) comprises a processor unit (700) for classifying the type of metal contained in the metal object (600) by using the measurements received from the light sensor (300).

[0032] The metal classification device (10) comprises a detection platform (100) carrying the light emitters (400) and light sensor (300).

[0033] The metal classification device (10) comprises at least one noise reducing wall (500) between the light emitters (400) and the light sensor (300), rising from the detection platform (100) to prevent light from the light emitter (400) from reaching the light sensor (300) directly.

[0034] The metal classification device (10) comprises side walls (101 ) rising from a detection platform (100) comprising light emitters (400) and a light sensor (300), which prevent external light from falling on the light emitters (400), the light sensor (300) and the metal object (600) to be tested.

[0035] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the metal classification device (10) comprises a test opening (102) positioned opposite the detection platform (100), which is closed when the metal object (600) or a carrier carrying the metal object (600) is placed. Thanks to the closing of the test opening (102), the light emitters (400) and the light sensor (300) inside the metal classification device (10) are protected from undesirable light effects coming from the external environment. In this way, only the reflections generated by the light emitters (400) inside the device can be detected by the light sensor (300). Furthermore, thanks to the closing of the test opening (102), the classification of the metal types of the metal objects (600) moving along the production line can be carried out.

[0036] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the light emitters (400) may be arranged around the light sensor (300). In another possible embodiment of the invention, the light emitters (400) may be arranged in a manner forming a ring around the light sensor (300). In this way, the reflections coming from the metal object (600) can be detected equally from all angles, and consistent and balanced data can be provided to the light sensor (300).

[0037] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the light emitters (400) may be positioned at an equal distance from the light sensor (300). In this way, the time and intensity of the light emitted from the light emitters (400) reaching the sensor are equalized. This ensures that the data received by the light sensor (300) arrives in the same manner and that the measurements are consistent.

[0038] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the surface of the detection platform (100) facing the object is black in color. The black surface absorbs the incident light and does not reflect it back. In this way, the black color of the surface of the detection platform (100) facing the object ensures that only the light reflected from the metal object (600) is detected. Thus, unwanted reflections are reduced, and colors can be effectively absorbed. In a possible embodiment of the invention, the detection platform (100) may be an electronic board (200).

[0039] In another possible embodiment of the invention, the surface of the detection platform (100) facing the object may be made of a matte material. In this way, unwanted reflections can be prevented and reflection-induced distortions can be reduced. The matte surface absorbs light, ensuring that the sensors detect only the light coming from the object, thereby increasing measurement accuracy.

[0040] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the noise-reducing wall (500) may be a physical barrier used to block unwanted light effects and optical noise. The noisereducing wall prevents the light emitted from the light emitter (400) from directly reaching the light sensor (300), that is, before it hits the metal object (600). In this way, unwanted noise in the measurements can be eliminated.

[0041] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the height of the noise-reducing wall (500) may be such that it allows the light emitted by the light emitters (400) to reach the object, but prevents this light from being directly directed to the sensor. In a possible embodiment of the invention, the noise-reducing wall (500) may have a lower height than the side walls (101 ). In another possible embodiment of the invention, the noise-reducing wall (500) and the side walls (101 ) may have an inclined structure.

[0042] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the inner surfaces of the side walls (101 ) of the metal classification device (10) may be black in color. In this way, the reflection of external light is prevented, ensuring that only the reflections coming from the tested metal object (600) are detected. In another possible embodiment of the invention, the inner surfaces of the side walls (101 ) may be made of a matte material.

[0043] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the noise-reducing wall (500) and / or the side walls (101 ) may be made of plastic material. The plastic material may be black in color. In a possible embodiment of the invention, the noise-reducing wall (500) and / or the side walls (101 ) may be coated with a coating. The mentioned coating may be a black coating. In a possible embodiment of the invention, the noise-reducing wall (500) and / or the side walls (101 ) may be manufactured using a 3D printer. In another possible embodiment of the invention, the noise-reducing wall (500) and / or the side walls (101 ) may be made using an aluminum tube profile with a matte black anodized coating. In yet another possible embodiment of the invention, the noise-reducing wall (500) and / or the side walls (101 ) may be produced by plastic injection molding.

[0044] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the light emitter (400) may be a lightemitting diode (LED). In a possible embodiment of the invention, the light emitter (400) may include a red light emitter. In another possible embodiment of the invention, the light emitter (400) may include a light emitter that emits light with a center wavelength of 615 nm.

[0045] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the light emitter (400) may include a blue light emitter. In another possible embodiment of the invention, the light emitter (400) may include a light emitter that emits light with a center wavelength of 465 nm. In a possible embodiment of the invention, the light emitter (400) may be a green light emitter. In another possible embodiment of the invention, the light emitter (400) may include a light emitter that emits light with a center wavelength of 523 nm.

[0046] In another possible embodiment of the invention, the light emitter (400) may be an infrared light emitter. In another possible embodiment of the invention, the light emitter (400) may include a light emitter that emits light with a center wavelength of 850 nm.

[0047] In another possible embodiment of the invention, the light emitter (400) may be a white light emitter. In another possible embodiment of the invention, the light emitter (400) may include a light emitter that emits light with a center wavelength of 665 nm.

[0048] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the light emitters (400) may comprise array groups including at least one of a red light emitter, a blue light emitter, a green light emitter, an infrared light emitter, and a white light emitter. The array groups may be arranged around the light sensor (300).

[0049] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the light sensor (300) may be an optical sensor. In another possible embodiment of the invention, the light sensor (300) may be an RGB sensor. In a possible embodiment of the invention, the light sensor (300) is provided in a structure capable of detecting the wavelengths of the light emitters (400).

[0050] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the light sensor (300) may be an RGB-CIR sensor. In this way, the light sensor can detect both the colors in the visible spectrum and the data in the infrared spectrum. Thus, the detection of light rays emitted from the light source at different wavelengths becomes possible over a broader spectrum.

[0051] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the processor unit (700) may be a CPU, a GPU, a microprocessor, etc. In a possible embodiment of the invention, the processor unit (700) may be configured to perform classification using a classification algorithm. As is well known in the art, the classification algorithm is a machine learning-based classification algorithm. Since it is well known in the art, it is not described in detail herein.

[0052] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the processor unit (700) may enable the classification of metal objects (600) according to their types and properties. In a possible embodiment of the invention, the metal object (600) may be copper, stainless steel, brass, aluminum, or black sheet metal. Accordingly, the processor unit may classify the metal object (600) as aluminum, steel, iron, copper, brass, etc.

[0053] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the metal classification device (10) may operate in an integrated manner with a metal processing machine. In another possible embodiment of the invention, the mentioned metal processing machine may be a laser cutting machine.

[0054] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the processor unit (700) enables the classification result regarding which metal is contained in the metal object (600) to be presented on a user interface (800).

[0055] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the metal classification device (10) may comprise a thickness measurement sensor that enables the measurement of the thickness of the metal object.

[0056] An exemplary working scenario of the invention is provided below:

[0057] An operator may place the metal object (600) to be tested in front of the detection platform (100) of the metal classification device (10). In a possible embodiment of the invention, the mentioned metal object (600) may be a metal plate. When the metal object (600) is placed, the test opening (102) is automatically closed, ensuring that the light emitters (400) and light sensors (300) inside the metal classification device (10) are not affected by unwanted light coming from the external environment.

[0058] In a possible embodiment of the invention, red, blue, green, infrared, and / or white lights are directed from the light emitters (400) onto the metal object (600). These lights are reflected from the surface of the metal object (600) and are detected by the light sensors (300). The data received from the light sensors (300) is analyzed by the processor unit (700) using a classification algorithm, and the type of the metal object (600) can be determined. For example, it may be determined that the metal object (600) is aluminum.

[0059] In a possible embodiment of the invention, when the classification process is completed, the results may be displayed to the operator on the user interface (800). The scope of protection of the invention is specified in the attached claims and cannot be limited to those explained for sampling purposes in this detailed description. It is evident that a person skilled in the art may exhibit similar embodiments in light of the above-mentioned facts without drifting apart from the main theme of the invention.

[0060] REFERENCE NUMBERS GIVEN IN THE FIGURE

[0061] 10 Metal classification device

[0062] 100 Detection platform

[0063] 101 Side walls

[0064] 102 Test opening

[0065] 200 Electronic board

[0066] 300 Light sensor

[0067] 400 Light emitter

[0068] 500 Noise reducing wall

[0069] 600 Metal object

[0070] 700 Processor unit

[0071] 800 User interface

Claims

CLAIMS1. A metal classification device (10) for classifying the material of metal plates comprising at least one light emitter (400) that emits light onto the metal object (600) to be tested; at least one light sensor (300) that receives the light reflected from the metal object (600); a processor unit (700) that classifies which metal is contained in the metal object (600) by using the measurements received from the light sensor (300) characterized in that it comprises a detection platform (100) that carries the light emitters (400) and the light sensor (300); at least one noise-reducing wall (500) extending from the detection platform (100), positioned between the light emitters (400) and the light sensor (300) in order to prevent the light emitted from the light emitter (400) from directly reaching the light sensor (300); side walls (101 ) extending from the detection platform (100) so as to enclose the light emitters (400) and the light sensor (300), and to prevent external light from reaching the light emitters (400), the light sensor (300), and the metal object (600) to be tested.

2. A metal classification device (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the surface of the detection platform (100) facing the object is black in color.

3. A metal classification device (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that the surface of the detection platform (100) facing the object is made of a matte material.

4. A metal classification device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inner surfaces of the side walls (101 ) are black in color.

5. A metal classification device (10) according to claim 4, characterized in that the inner surfaces of the side walls (101 ) are made of a matte material.

6. A metal classification device (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that it comprises a test opening (102) positioned opposite the detection platform (100), which is closed when the metal object (600) or a carrier carrying the metal object (600) is placed.

7. A metal classification device (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that it comprises at least one of a red light emitter, a blue light emitter, a green light emitter, an infrared light emitter, and a white light emitter; the light sensor (300) is configured to detect the wavelengths of the light emitters (400).

8. A metal classification device (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that it comprises a light emitter (400) that emits light with a center wavelength of 465 nm; a light emitter (400) that emits light with a center wavelength of 523 nm; a light emitter (400) that emits light with a center wavelength of 615 nm; a light emitter (400) that emits light with a center wavelength of 665 nm; a light emitter (400) that emits light with a center wavelength of 850 nm.

9. A metal classification device (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the light emitters (400) are arranged around the light sensor (300).

10. A metal classification device (10) according to claim 8, characterized in that the light emitters (400) are arranged in a manner forming a ring around the light sensor (300).

11. A metal classification device (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that the light emitters (400) comprise array groups including one of each of a red light emitter, a blue light emitter, a green light emitter, an infrared light emitter, and a white light emitter; the mentioned array groups are arranged around the light sensor (300).

12. A metal classification device (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the light emitters (400) are positioned at an equal distance from the light sensor (300).

13. A metal classification device (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the processor unit (700) is configured to perform classification using a classification algorithm.

14. A metal classification device (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the detection platform (100) is an electronic board (200).

15. A metal classification device (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the metal object (600) is a metal plate.

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