Conveyor Object Identification with Counterweighted Diverting Bar
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for identifying objects on a conveyor mechanism are inefficient and time-consuming, especially when operating at high speeds, leading to potential production of defective products before errors are detected.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a diverting bar with a counterweight and an object identifier, which includes an object collector, inspector, and selection arm, to automatically divert, inspect, and direct objects based on markings for quality control or return to the conveyor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual sampling and inspection methods are used, then simplicity of the system is maintained, but productivity and inspection speed are insufficient for high-speed conveyor operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection with an automated imaging system that uses cameras and image processing to detect markings on objects. The diverting bar mechanism is also automated rather than manually operated, enabling the system to keep pace with high-speed conveyor operations while maintaining relatively simple mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by automatically diverting objects based on detected markings without requiring manual intervention. The diverting bar automatically responds to imaging system detections, and the object collector automatically retrieves diverted objects, creating a self-operating inspection and sorting system that dramatically improves productivity.
2Productivity
If high-speed manufacturing is operated to increase productivity, then output is improved, but the ability to detect and respond to defects in real-time deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by detecting markings on objects while they are still on the conveyor belt, before defective objects can be produced or distributed. The imaging system captures images and the diverting bar redirects objects ahead of time, enabling real-time quality control that maintains reliability even at high manufacturing speeds exceeding 200 objects per minute.
3Productivity
If automated identification systems are implemented to improve inspection speed, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential functions needed for quality control: imaging to detect markings, processing to interpret the markings, and diverting to separate objects based on inspection results. By taking out only these critical functions rather than implementing a comprehensive automated manufacturing system, the patent achieves improved sampling efficiency while keeping device complexity manageable.
4Measurement precision
If manual object collection and inspection is performed to maintain system simplicity, then device complexity is minimized, but loss of time and inspection accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an imaging system that captures and processes images of markings on objects. This substitution dramatically improves measurement precision for detecting marking characteristics while reducing inspection time, as the automated system can analyze markings instantly without the limitations of human visual processing speed and accuracy.
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 efficient and cost-effective sampling of objects for quality control, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring timely detection of defects by automating the identification process.
Implementation Method 1
a counterweight operably coupled to the diverting bar. The counterweight is configured to apply a biasing force against the one or more objects contacting the surface of the diverting bar
Data Source
AI summary
A system for identifying an object including a conveyer mechanism, a diverting bar, a counterweight, an object collector, an object inspector, and a selection arm. The diverting bar includes a body which may be positioned at least partially over the conveyer mechanism as to divert one or more objects of a plurality of objects traveling on the conveyer mechanism. The counterweight is coupled to the diverting bar and applies a biasing force against the one or more objects as to reduce the force applied to the plurality of objects. The object collector may be positioned adjacent the conveyer mechanism and is configured to accept an object from the conveyer mechanism and inspect the object for at least one marking. Once inspected, the selection arm is configured to deliver the object to a target position or back to the conveyer mechanism based on at least one marking.