Composable Machine Vision System for Projectile Sorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine vision systems for inspecting ordnance and ammunition are specialized and lack generality, combining high-speed operation with precision measurement, and are not easily adaptable to various inspection tasks.
Innovation Solution
A composable machine-vision system using multiple cameras and an image processor for high-speed inspection, with plug-in recognition modules and decision algorithms, allowing for the identification of object type and quality, and featuring a modular feeder and sorter technology to handle diverse objects and calibers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If specialized machine vision systems are used for specific inspection tasks, then measurement precision and inspection accuracy are improved, but adaptability to various inspection tasks deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a universal machine vision platform that can perform multiple inspection functions through configurable software modules and adjustable imaging parameters, allowing a single system to handle diverse inspection tasks including dimensional measurement, defect detection, and classification across different object types and industries
2Productivity
If high-speed operation is implemented, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning the object on a rotating platform before inspection, pre-configuring imaging parameters and measurement algorithms based on object type, and pre-synchronizing the imaging system with the rotation speed to ensure that high-speed operation does not compromise measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic rotation of the object at controlled speeds, with imaging captured at specific rotational positions, allowing high-speed inspection while maintaining precision through consistent, repeatable measurement cycles that can be optimized for different object types
3Adaptability or versatility
If a general-purpose machine vision system is used, then adaptability to various tasks is improved, but measurement precision and high-speed operation capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its configuration based on the inspection task at hand, automatically selecting appropriate imaging parameters, measurement algorithms, and rotation speeds through programmable control that adapts to different object types, industries, and inspection requirements, thereby maintaining precision while providing versatility
Data Source
AI summary
A machine vision system for automatically identifying and inspecting objects is disclosed, including composable vision-based recognition modules and a decision algorithm to perform the final determination on object type and quality. This vision system has been used to develop a Projectile Identification System and an Automated Tactical Ammunition Classification System. The technology can be used to create numerous other inspection and automated identification systems.