Coin Alignment Station with Optical Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for refining and precisely aligning coin surfaces for digital printing are inefficient and labor-intensive, as they require manual alignment using magnifying glasses due to the delicate nature of embossing or pressing, which is not suitable for high-resolution and precision processing.
Innovation Solution
An alignment station equipped with an optical detection system and a positioning system, including a camera for non-contact detection and an XY linear drive, allows for fully automated alignment of coins to a predetermined position and orientation, enabling precise alignment for multi-color digital printing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual alignment with magnifying glasses is used, then alignment can be performed, but the process is labor-intensive and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical alignment process with an automated optical detection system. The optical detection system uses cameras and image processing to automatically determine the position and orientation of coins, eliminating the need for manual alignment with magnifying glasses and significantly reducing alignment time and labor intensity.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment system performs self-alignment by automatically detecting the coin's position and orientation through optical means and adjusting the coin's position using a positioning mechanism. This self-service capability eliminates manual intervention and enables consistent, repeatable alignment without human operator involvement.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment methods are used, then alignment can be achieved, but manufacturing precision is insufficient for high-resolution printing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment with an optical detection and automated positioning system. The optical system captures images of the coin, processes them to determine precise position and orientation, and controls a positioning mechanism to achieve high-precision alignment, thereby improving manufacturing precision while managing operation complexity through automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical detection system as an intermediary between the coin and the printing process. This intermediary system (cameras, image processors) measures the coin's position and orientation with high precision and provides this information to the positioning mechanism, enabling accurate alignment without direct manual manipulation.
3Manufacturing precision
If digital printing is used for coin surfaces, then high-resolution processing is achieved, but precise alignment of the printed image with embossing or pressing is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual alignment with an automated optical measurement and positioning system. The optical detection system captures precise images of the coin's embossing or pressing features, processes these images to determine exact position and orientation data, and feeds this information to the positioning mechanism to achieve precise alignment for high-resolution digital printing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an optical copy (image) of the coin's surface features through the optical detection system. This digital copy contains precise information about the coin's position and orientation, which is then used to calculate and execute the necessary positioning adjustments, enabling accurate alignment without direct physical measurement.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables automated and precise alignment of coins and medals for digital printing, improving efficiency and reducing manual labor, allowing for high-resolution and precise processing of delicate embossing or pressing features.
Implementation Method 1
an optical detection system designed to contactlessly detect a relative position and/or alignment of the at least one printed object to the slide and/or to a reference
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to an alignment station (1) for aligning a printed object, in particular a coin, to be printed by means of a printing press, wherein the alignment station (1) has a slide holder (3) which is configured to hold a slide (4) with at least one printed object (2) received and/or held by the slide (4). The alignment station (1) further comprises an optical detection system (8) which is configured to detect, without contact, the relative position and/or orientation of the at least one printed object (2) to the slide (4) and/or to a reference. Furthermore, the alignment station (1) has a positioning system (9) which is configured to manipulate the at least one printed object (2) such that the relative position and/or orientation of the printed object (2) to the slide (4) and/or to the reference corresponds to a predetermined or definable position and/or orientation.