Material identification apparatus and method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for identifying, classifying, and sorting objects are limited in determining properties beyond color and NIR spectra, leading to inefficiencies and errors, particularly in high-speed sorting applications.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus utilizing a scanning element and spectroscopy system to detect fluorescence and phosphorescence events in moving objects, enabling precise determination of properties through multiple inspection zones and optical radiation analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual identification of objects is employed, then identification accuracy can be maintained, but identification speed and productivity are low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical identification with an automated optical detection system using spectrometers and sensors that analyze reflected light spectra to identify object properties, material composition, and characteristics without human intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The system measures spectral parameters across different wavelengths to extract multiple object properties simultaneously, transforming the identification process from visual inspection to quantitative spectral analysis that enables both high speed and accuracy
2Productivity
If machines are used for bulk object identification and sorting, then productivity and speed are enhanced, but the ability to determine additional properties beyond color and NIR spectra is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional detection system that combines VIS spectrometer, NIR spectrometer, and phosphorescence detector to perform multiple measurement functions simultaneously, enabling determination of color, material composition, and phosphorescence properties through a single integrated apparatus
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the spectral analysis into separate wavelength ranges (VIS and NIR) handled by dedicated spectrometers, with each segment optimized for specific property detection, while a scanning mechanism sequentially activates different detection functions
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple spectrometers and detection systems are integrated, then property determination capability is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple spectrometers (VIS and NIR) and detection systems into a single integrated apparatus with shared optical paths, scanning mechanisms, and control systems, reducing overall complexity while maintaining multi-functional detection capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic scanning to sequentially activate different spectrometers and detection functions, with the scanning element moving between inspection zones at controlled intervals, allowing multiple measurements to be performed through time-division multiplexing rather than requiring all components to operate simultaneously
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 the classification and sorting of objects by accurately determining fluorescence and phosphorescence characteristics, allowing for improved identification and sorting of various materials despite high-speed movement.
Implementation Method 1
the illumination beam is configured to cause a photoexcitation event in a photo responsive portion of said matter upon irradiation of said photo responsive portion of said matter with said at least one illumination beam
Implementation Method 2
optical radiation being emitted by said matter in the second inspection zone, which optical radiation pertains to a phosphorescence event resulting from the photoexcitation event
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an apparatus (100) for classification of matter (102) comprising: a scanning element is configured to redirect the at least one illumination beam and to shift a plurality of inspection zones and an irradiated area relative said matter in the first direction. A processing circuitry configured to execute: a second zone collection function configured to collect second zone data based which pertains to said optical radiation emitted by said matter in the second inspection zone, a third zone collection function configured to collect third zone data based which pertains to optical radiation emitted by said matter in the third inspection zone, a classification function configured to classify said matter based on the second zone data and the third zone data.