Grading Machine Multi-Vision System for Irregular Objects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grading machines for small sized, irregular objects are inefficient, labor-dependent, and imprecise, with complex operations and limited capacity for rapid and accurate grading.
Innovation Solution
An improved grading machine with a multi-vision system aided by multi-wavelength lighting and an embedded intelligence system, using a non-contact mechanism to categorize objects by size, shape, color, and surface finish, featuring a rotating drum with contoured holes and a pick-and-place assembly for efficient object handling and automated sorting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional grading machines are used for small sized irregular objects, then the grading operation can be performed, but the grading process is time-consuming and lacks precision
Solution Approach 1:
The grading machine divides the grading process into multiple independent imaging stages (first imaging system for initial sorting, second imaging system for detailed inspection). Each system handles specific grading criteria, enabling parallel processing and reducing overall grading time while maintaining high precision through specialized multi-wavelength lighting for each stage.
Solution Approach 2:
The first imaging system performs preliminary sorting of objects into different categories before the second imaging system conducts detailed inspection. This preliminary classification reduces the workload of the second system and enables faster overall processing, as objects are pre-grouped by obvious characteristics before detailed analysis.
2Productivity
If simple thru holes and alternating current are used in the grading machine, then the machine structure is simple, but the grading operation becomes more time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical sorting mechanisms with an optical-based imaging and recognition system. Multiple imaging systems with multi-wavelength lighting capture object characteristics, and electronic processing automatically determines grading categories, eliminating the need for complex mechanical sorting apparatus while dramatically increasing grading speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses varying wavelengths of light (multi-wavelength lighting) to illuminate objects from different angles and highlight different surface properties. By changing the optical parameters (wavelength, angle, intensity), the system extracts multiple characteristics simultaneously, enabling rapid comprehensive analysis without mechanical contact.
3Measurement precision
If composite light is used for illumination, then the imaging system can capture objects, but the surface anomalies of objects are not efficiently analyzed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs different wavelengths of light for different imaging purposes: certain wavelengths highlight surface texture and roughness, while others emphasize color and reflectivity. Each wavelength targets specific surface properties, allowing the imaging system to efficiently analyze multiple surface anomalies simultaneously with high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-wavelength lighting system illuminates objects with different spectral compositions, causing surface anomalies to reflect or absorb light differently. This creates distinctive optical signatures for different surface conditions, enabling the imaging system to detect and classify surface anomalies efficiently based on their optical response characteristics.
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
The machine enables rapid, accurate, and efficient grading of a wide variety of small sized, irregular objects, reducing manual labor and increasing productivity while ensuring high precision and automation, with the ability to process objects quickly and uniformly.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnet to open the cup
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~3A
Figure 4~4B
AI summary
Present invention discloses an improved grading machine for grading small sized irregular objects which provides distinguished elements like reverse roller pairs assembly, a rotating drum having multiple numbers of contoured holes enabling faster pick up and dropping of the objects synchronous to the convey or motion, multiple imaging systems having multi-vision system along with multi wavelength lighting system, multiple transparent cups, an energizer assembly and an embedded intelligence system which remembers the position of each object thereby directing controlled opening of each cup bearing objects. These elements function collaboratively with one another making the placed objects fall into different collecting chutes, thus categorizing them according to their same properties based on same size, color, shape and surface finish. Present invention also discloses a process for grading small sized irregular objects. The invention is aimed to increase the grading efficiency of the improved grading machine using the disclosed process of grading irregular or uneven objects according to their size, color and surface properties in a rapid, practical, accurate, and satisfactory manner using electronically controlled non-contact mechanism.