Edge Inspection Apparatus with Camera Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional edge tuning devices and systems fail to provide precise edge tuning, leading to decreased performance and potential injury in industries such as snow skiing and knife sharpening due to imprecision.
Innovation Solution
An edge inspection apparatus and system that includes a guide bracket with a contact surface, an abradant retainer, and a camera mount, coupled with a digital processing module and camera, which captures images of the edge, processes them to assess sharpness and continuity, and provides user feedback for improved precision and repeatability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional edge tuning devices are used, then the structure is simple and easy to operate, but the measurement precision and manufacturing precision of edge tuning are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and subjective assessment with a digital camera system and image processing algorithms. The camera captures edge images, and software automatically analyzes sharpness, continuity, and geometry, substituting mechanical/optical inspection methods with digital processing to achieve precise measurement without excessive mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the edge through camera imaging. Instead of directly measuring the physical edge with complex mechanical gauges, the system captures an optical copy (image) of the edge and performs analysis on this copy, enabling precise measurement while keeping the physical device structure relatively simple
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional edge tuning methods are used, then the operation is simple, but the repeatability and consistency of edge tuning results are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the camera captures edge images before and after tuning, the image processing module analyzes the results, and the system provides feedback on edge quality metrics. This feedback loop enables users to adjust tuning parameters and techniques to achieve consistent, repeatable results while maintaining ease of operation through clear visual guidance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary documentation by capturing images of the edge before tuning begins. This preliminary action establishes a baseline and allows for comparison with post-tuning results, enabling users to assess progress and maintain consistency across multiple tuning operations without adding significant operational complexity
3Measurement precision
If visual inspection is improved with camera system, then the measurement precision increases, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with a relatively simple camera and software processing system. The camera captures edge images, and digital algorithms perform the precise measurement of edge geometry, sharpness, and continuity, achieving high measurement precision while avoiding the mechanical complexity of traditional optical measurement instruments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical copying through camera imaging to create a digital representation of the edge. This copying approach enables precise measurement and documentation without requiring complex physical contact with the edge, simplifying the device structure while maintaining or improving measurement precision compared to conventional methods
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
Enhances precision and confidence in edge tuning by providing real-time visual inspection and feedback, ensuring a consistently sharp and safe edge, thereby improving performance and safety across various industries.
Implementation Method 1
a camera lens of the camera toward the edge of the target object
Implementation Method 2
the sensor is aligned with the camera lens and configured to produce electrical signals in response to exposure to incident light
Data Source
AI summary
An edge inspection apparatus includes a guide bracket and a camera mount. The guide bracket includes at least one contact surface and an abradant retainer. The contact surface makes contact with a corresponding surface of a target object and aids in positioning the guide bracket relative to an edge of the target object. The abradant retainer secures an abradant to the guide bracket and secures the abradant in a position relative to the edge of the target object. The camera mount secures a camera in a fixed position relative to the guide bracket and orients the camera lens toward the edge of the target object.