Foreign Body Detection Device Validation Using Machine-Readable Test Bodies

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for validating and calibrating foreign body detection devices are cumbersome and time-consuming due to high manual effort and lack of automation, particularly in documenting test results, and are not machine-readable, making them inefficient for certification and acceptance processes.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that utilize standardized test bodies with machine-readable codes, such as barcodes, to automate the validation and calibration process of foreign body detection devices, allowing for simultaneous testing with product conveyance, and enabling efficient documentation through optical scanners and data processing, reducing manual intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If manual documentation methods are used for testing foreign body detection devices, then documentation can be created, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedocumentation efficiencyVSAvoidtime for documentation
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual documentation processes with automated optical scanning and data processing systems. Barcode scanners and optical character recognition technology automatically capture test results and generate documentation, eliminating the need for manual data entry and significantly reducing documentation time while improving efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The testing system performs self-documentation through automated data capture and processing. The system automatically records test parameters, generates reports, and maintains documentation without requiring extensive manual intervention, allowing the system to serve its own documentation needs efficiently

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If non-machine-readable identification is used for test specimens, then simple identification is possible, but processing becomes manually intensive and slow

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetest data processing speedVSAvoidmanual effort required
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual identification methods with machine-readable codes such as barcodes and optical character recognition tags. These machine-readable identifiers allow automated scanning and data processing, dramatically increasing test data processing speed while reducing manual effort requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces machine-readable codes as an intermediary between the physical test specimens and the data processing system. These codes serve as a bridge that enables automated recognition and processing, transforming the interaction from manual to automated while maintaining specimen identification capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Extent of automation

If standardized test bodies with machine-readable codes are used, then automation and repeatability are improved, but the complexity of the test system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomation levelVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs standardized test bodies with machine-readable codes that serve multiple functions: identification, data tracking, and automated processing. These multi-functional elements enable automation across different testing operations while using a unified standardized format that doesn't proportionally increase system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses standardized machine-readable codes and barcode systems that can be replicated consistently across multiple test bodies. These standardized copies allow automated recognition and processing without requiring complex custom identification systems for each test element, thereby enabling automation while controlling complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentEP2381276B1Method for validating, calibrating and/or testing the functionality of a foreign body detection device
Publication Date: 2014.04.30 RONDOTEST
  • EP2381276B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2381276B1 patent drawingFigure 2a
  • EP2381276B1 patent drawingFigure 2b

AI summary

The method involves guiding a sample body via a detection area of a foreign body recognizing device along a transport path for generating a response or releasing signal, where the sample body partially comprises material such as food safe plastic, glass and ceramics, or element to be detected. An assigning marker i.e. two-dimensional code, is attached on a surface of the body and detected (C1) by a detection unit in the context of verification of function of the foreign body recognizing device, where the detection unit is assigned to a user or controlled by the user. An independent claim is also included for a system for calibrating, validating and/or functional verifying of the foreign body recognizing device, during conveying of foodstuff, medicines or other packaged or loose products.