Conveyor Mass Determination Using Projected Area and Single Camera
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the mass of loose or free-flowing piece goods on conveyor devices are computationally intensive, complex, and expensive due to the requirement of multiple cameras and high computing power, and are limited to piece goods, not suitable for powders.
Innovation Solution
A method that calculates the average mass per unit area by distributing piece goods on a conveyor belt, using a single camera to capture images of the projected area, determining the centroid and dimensions of each piece, and multiplying by an average surface mass, while for powders, it determines the layer height-intensity relationship to calculate mass based on light source intensity and density.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple cameras and high computing power are used to determine the mass of piece goods, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential measurement function from complex multi-camera systems. By using a single camera to capture projected area images and combining this with conveyor speed data, the system achieves mass determination without the complexity of multiple cameras and high-performance computing resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive, complex measurement systems with simpler, more economical components. A standard single camera and basic computer system suffice to determine mass by measuring projected area and applying calibration factors, eliminating the need for costly multi-camera setups.
2Measurement precision
If multiple cameras and complex processing are used, then measurement precision is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the necessary data elements for mass determination: projected area from single images and conveyor speed. This minimal data extraction approach eliminates time-consuming processing of multiple camera feeds and complex 3D reconstruction, achieving fast results with sufficient accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a simplified measurement approach that captures only the essential parameters needed for mass determination rather than attempting complete object characterization. This partial measurement strategy reduces processing time while maintaining adequate precision for practical applications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional image processing methods are used, then mass determination is achieved, but the method is limited to piece goods only
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal measurement system based on projected area that works for both piece goods and powders. By calibrating the relationship between projected area and mass for different materials, the same single-camera system can accurately measure various material types without requiring specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from material-specific properties to universal projected area. By establishing calibration curves that relate projected area to mass for different materials (piece goods, powders), the system achieves versatility across material types while maintaining measurement precision through material-specific calibration factors.
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
This approach simplifies the process, reduces processing time, and extends the method to handle powders by providing accurate mass determination with less than 10% error, making it more efficient and cost-effective compared to previous methods.
Implementation Method 1
Illuminating the piece goods with a light source and passing the illuminated piece goods through a detection area of at least one camera
Data Source
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AI summary
The method involves dividing individual pieces of piece goods (3) on a conveying device (1), and conveying the goods on the device along a conveying direction (FR). Geometric data of the pieces is generated based on a position of the pieces on the device, and the mass of the pieces is computed based on the data. An average square mass for the piece goods is determined. A projection square mass of a projection surface of the pieces of the goods in the projection direction is determined as a part of the geometric data. The projection mass of the pieces is multiplied with the average mass. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a device for measuring the mass of free-flowing or fluid piece goods (2) a software product for measuring the mass of free-flowing or fluid piece goods.