Conveyor Object Identification Using a Temperature-Stabilized Camera
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing identification methods using cameras for objects on conveyors face accuracy issues due to unclear images caused by focus problems, particularly when lens temperature fluctuates.
Innovation Solution
The identification device includes a conveyor, a camera placed in a constant-temperature environment, and an image processor to analyze images for accurate identification. A heat-insulating cover maintains the camera's lens temperature stable, using heaters and a temperature control system to adjust the environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a camera is used to capture objects on the conveyor, then the identification process can be performed, but the image clarity deteriorates due to focus problems caused by lens temperature fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by controlling the lens temperature to remain constant. The temperature control unit adjusts the lens temperature to a predetermined value and maintains it there, preventing focus shifts that would otherwise occur due to temperature fluctuations. This ensures the camera maintains consistent focus on moving objects throughout the identification process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control through the temperature control unit that continuously monitors lens temperature and adjusts heating or cooling accordingly. The control unit compares the actual lens temperature with the target temperature and makes real-time adjustments to maintain the lens at the optimal temperature for stable focus, thereby ensuring reliable image capture.
2Device complexity
If the lens temperature is not controlled, then the device complexity is reduced, but the focal length stability deteriorates causing focus shifts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent controls the lens temperature parameter to remain constant at a predetermined value. By maintaining the lens at this specific temperature, the focal length remains stable even as objects move on the conveyor, preventing focus shifts without requiring complex mechanical focus adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary temperature adjustment of the lens before object identification begins. The temperature control unit pre-heats or pre-cools the lens to the target temperature, ensuring that the lens is already at the optimal temperature when object capture starts, thereby eliminating focus instability issues.
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 configuration ensures high accuracy in identifying objects by stabilizing the camera's focal length, allowing clear image capture and precise object recognition.
Implementation Method 1
a heat-insulating cover maintains the camera's lens temperature stable
Implementation Method 2
using heaters and a temperature control system to adjust the environment
Data Source
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AI summary
An identification device (2) comprises a conveyer (10), a camera (12), and an image processor. The conveyer (10) has a conveyance surface (10a) for placement of a subject, and conveys the subject. The camera (12) is disposed in a thermostatic environment and captures the subject that is conveyed by the conveyer (10). The image processor analyzes an image obtained by capturing the subject with the camera (12), and identifies the subject on the conveyance surface (10a).