On-path Detector Inspection via Light Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inspection systems for detectors on transport vehicles require operators to move the vehicles off their preset paths, increasing the burden and inefficiency of the inspection process.
Innovation Solution
An inspection system that includes a projection surface within the detector's detection range on the transport path, an image capturing device to capture the projected detection light, and a determination unit to assess the light's position, shape, and intensity, allowing for on-path inspections of the detector's state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the transport vehicle is moved to a location different from the transport path for inspection, then the detector can be inspected, but the operator's burden increases and inspection efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection system allows the detector to be inspected while the transport vehicle remains on its normal transport path. The projection surface and image capturing device automatically capture and analyze the detection light projected by the detector, enabling the system to self-inspect without requiring operator intervention to move the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport vehicle's detector serves dual purposes: it functions as a normal detection device during transport and as an inspection subject when illuminated by the projection device. The same detector is used both for its intended operation and for inspection, eliminating the need for separate inspection locations.
2Reliability
If the transport vehicle is moved off the transport path for inspection, then the detector can be inspected, but the inspection time and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The projection surface and image capturing device are pre-positioned along the transport path at locations where transport vehicles will naturally pass. This allows inspection to be performed at predetermined points without deviating from the normal transport schedule, maintaining productivity while ensuring inspection accuracy.
3Ease of operation
If the detector is inspected while the transport vehicle is on the transport path, then the operator's burden is reduced, but the detection light may interfere with normal transport operations
Solution Approach 1:
The projection surface is positioned at a specific location within the detector's detection range where the detection light projects without interfering with normal transport operations. The local area where light projection occurs is carefully selected to avoid creating harmful interference with other transport vehicles or operations on the path.
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 reduced-burden inspection of detectors by determining their orientation and functionality without requiring the transport vehicle to be moved off its path, thereby ensuring correct installation and operation.
Implementation Method 1
a projection surface that is disposed at a position located within a detection range of the detector... and onto which detection light projected by the detector is projected; an image capturing device that captures an image of the projection surface
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an inspection system that can reduce the burden of inspecting a detector provided on a transport vehicle that travels on a preset transport path. An inspection system 1 includes a projection surface 5F that is disposed at a position located within a detection range IE of a detector 3 in a state in which a transport vehicle 2 is present at an inspection location IP set on a transport path R, and onto which detection light IL projected by the detector 3 is projected, an image capturing device C that captures an image of the projection surface 5F, and a determination unit that determines at least one state selected from a position, a shape, and a light intensity of the detection light IL projected onto the projection surface 5F, based on an image captured by the image capturing device C.