Cantilevered Imaging Support for Conveyor Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing object recognition apparatuses in automatic recyclable waste sorting systems face challenges in installation flexibility and stability when the belt conveyor is already installed in a facility, requiring time and effort to ensure proper alignment and positioning of the imaging device.
Innovation Solution
The object imaging apparatus is designed with a support structure that includes a pillar and beam configuration, allowing for adjustable positioning and posture of the optical unit relative to the conveyor belt, using a cantilevered beam supported by a pillar located on one side, with fine and rough adjustment mechanisms to align the imaging device accurately.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the imaging device is installed directly on the conveyor frame, then the installation is simple, but the alignment precision and positioning accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple independent components: a support table positioned away from the conveyor, a first supporter connecting the support table to the conveyor, and a second supporter providing additional support. This segmentation allows each component to be independently adjusted and positioned, achieving both easy installation and high alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The support table acts as an intermediary element between the conveyor and the imaging device. By positioning the support table at a location separate from the conveyor frame and using adjustable supporters to connect them, the system achieves precise alignment without direct mounting on the conveyor, resolving the contradiction between installation simplicity and alignment precision.
2Measurement precision
If the imaging device is positioned close to the conveyor, then the imaging quality improves, but the device is more susceptible to dust and disturbance light
Solution Approach 1:
The support table is positioned at a specific location away from the conveyor belt, creating a localized clean zone for the imaging device. This spatial separation maintains favorable imaging conditions by reducing exposure to dust and disturbance light while the adjustable supporters enable the device to be positioned optimally for image quality.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid fixed support structure is used, then the structural stability is high, but the adaptability to different conveyor configurations is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure incorporates adjustable elements including the first supporter and second supporter that can be positioned and fixed at various locations. This dynamic adjustability allows the rigid structure to adapt to different conveyor configurations while maintaining structural stability during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The support table and adjustable supporters create a universal mounting system that can accommodate various conveyor types and configurations. The same basic structure can be adapted to different installations by adjusting the supporter positions, providing both stability and versatility.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the support structure is complex with multiple supporters on both sides, then the stability improves, but the installation complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure uses asymmetric configuration with the support table positioned away from the conveyor and supporters arranged optimally rather than symmetrically on both sides. This asymmetric design achieves necessary stability while reducing structural complexity and space requirements compared to a symmetric dual-side support configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
An object imaging apparatus includes an imaging device facing a conveyor that conveys an object to image the object conveyed by the conveyor, a first supporter that is located on the same side as the imaging device relative to the conveyor with a space from the conveyor and is to support the imaging device, and a second supporter that is located in a second installation portion different from a first installation portion in which a conveying device including the conveyor is located and is to support the first supporter. The second supporter is provided only on one side with respect a width direction of the conveyor.