Container Wall Defect Detection Using Multimodal Optical Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting defects in optically transparent containers filled with non-transparent or scattering liquid contents are unreliable due to random images caused by the contents, making it difficult to achieve the high reliability required by the pharmaceutical and food industries.
Innovation Solution
A multimodal apparatus with multiple light sources and sensors is used to illuminate and detect defects in container walls using different imaging methods, allowing for reliable and accurate defect detection by analyzing reflected/scattered light patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optical camera imaging methods are used to detect defects in transparent containers, then the detection can be performed, but the reliability is low when containers are filled with non-transparent or scattering liquid contents due to random images caused by the contents
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the detection task into multiple modalities: transmitted light imaging for container wall defects, reflected light imaging for surface defects, and dark field imaging for particle detection. Each modality targets specific defect types and operates independently to avoid interference from container contents
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces multiple light sources and optical paths as intermediaries to detect defects. Different lighting configurations (transmitted, reflected, dark field) act as mediators to capture defect information without being affected by the scattering or absorbing properties of the container contents
2Measurement precision
If X-ray inspection is used to detect defects in transparent containers, then adequate contrast can be obtained, but ionizing radiation requires special safety measures and can affect sensitive container contents
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the X-ray inspection system (electromagnetic radiation-based) with optical imaging systems using visible light. Multiple optical modalities (transmitted light, reflected light, dark field) substitute for ionizing radiation to detect defects without exposing sensitive pharmaceutical or food contents to harmful radiation
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the detection parameter from X-ray absorption/contrast to optical light interaction properties. By using multiple lighting angles and detection methods (transmitted, reflected, dark field), the system achieves comprehensive defect detection using optical parameters instead of ionizing radiation parameters
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
The apparatus achieves high reliability in detecting defects, with false positives below 10% and false negatives in ppm, and can examine containers filled with non-transparent materials or liquids, suitable for pharmaceutical and food industry applications.
Implementation Method 1
a first light source...configured to direct a first beam of incident light to illuminate a portion of the wall of the container
Implementation Method 2
a first optical sensor...configured to receive a first beam of reflected/scattered light from the wall of the container
Implementation Method 3
a second light source...configured to direct a second beam of incident light to illuminate a portion of the wall of the container
Implementation Method 4
a second optical sensor...configured to receive a second beam of reflected/scattered light from the wall of the container
Implementation Method 5
a third light source...configured to direct a third beam of incident light to illuminate a portion of the wall of the container...wherein the third beam of incident light is coherent light
Implementation Method 6
a third optical sensor...configured to detect an interference pattern of reflected/scattered light from the wall of the container
Data Source
Figure 1a~2b
Figure 3~5b
Figure 6~8b
AI summary
An apparatus (100, 200, 300) for examining a container (103, 203, 303), in particular for detecting defects in a wall of the container (103, 203, 303), is described. The apparatus (100, 200, 300) comprises a mount for supporting at least one container (103, 203, 303), a first light source (120), a second light source (220) and a third light source (320) configured to respectively direct a first beam, a second beam and a third beam of incident light to illuminate a portion of the wall of the container (103, 203, 303). The apparatus (100, 200, 300) further comprises a first optical sensor (130), a second optical sensor (230) and a third optical sensor (330).