Image-Guided Center Alignment Between Processing and Downstream Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for center alignment between article processing apparatuses and downstream apparatuses are inaccurate and require intricate preparation.
Innovation Solution
An article processing apparatus and downstream apparatus equipped with a display, a capturing unit to capture images of each other, and a controller to display the images for easy alignment of centers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional center alignment methods (visual observation or chain-jig method) are used, then alignment can be performed, but alignment accuracy is insufficient and preparation is intricate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses image capturing units to create visual copies (images) of the downstream apparatus and displays them on monitors. This allows operators to view alignment references without physically accessing all sides of the equipment, eliminating the need for intricate physical preparation while maintaining high alignment accuracy through precise digital imaging and display.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical chain-jig alignment method with an optical-electronic system consisting of image capturing units, signal processing circuits, and display monitors. This substitution eliminates the need for physical chains and jigs, reducing preparation complexity while providing more accurate and flexible alignment capabilities through digital image processing and display.
2Ease of operation
If visual observation from all sides is used for center alignment, then alignment can be performed, but the process is time-consuming and preparation is intricate
Solution Approach 1:
The image capturing units create digital copies of the downstream apparatus that can be displayed on monitors positioned at convenient locations. Operators can view alignment references without physically moving around the equipment, significantly reducing alignment time and simplifying the operation while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces display monitors as intermediaries between the downstream apparatus and the operator's vision. These monitors transmit alignment information optically, eliminating the need for direct visual observation from all sides and reducing both time and operational complexity.
3Measurement precision
If chain and jig are used for center alignment, then alignment can be performed, but the preparation process is intricate and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical chain-jig system with electronic image capturing and display equipment. This substitution maintains center alignment precision through accurate imaging while eliminating the need for complex physical alignment tools and their intricate preparation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using physical chains and jigs to mark center positions, the patent creates digital copies of the apparatus through imaging and displays them on monitors. This provides precise center alignment references without requiring any physical alignment tools or their complex preparation.
Data Source
AI summary
An article processing apparatus (1) according to an embodiment discharges an article to a downstream apparatus (2) disposed downstream. The article processing apparatus includes: a display (110); a capturing unit (100) that captures a picture including at least part of the downstream apparatus; and a controller (30) that displays, in a case where a processing operation of the article remains stopped in the article processing apparatus, on the display, the picture captured by the capturing unit.