Image-Guided Alignment Between Article Processing and Downstream Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional center alignment methods for article processing and downstream apparatuses are inaccurate and complex, making them difficult to execute effectively.
Innovation Solution
An article processing apparatus and downstream apparatus equipped with a capturing unit and controller that display captured images for alignment, allowing operators to easily adjust the positional relationship between the two systems using visual guides and graduations on a display.
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 the alignment accuracy is insufficient and the preparation process is intricate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses image capture to create a visual copy of the downstream apparatus and displays it on a screen. This allows operators to see the apparatus position without physically accessing it, simplifying the alignment process while maintaining accuracy. The image serves as a virtual representation that can be manipulated and observed from any angle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical chain-jig alignment method with an optical/image-based system. Instead of physically hanging chains and using jigs to mark center positions, the system captures images and displays them on a screen with overlay markers, eliminating the need for physical alignment tools and reducing preparation complexity.
2Productivity
If high-rate weighing and packaging are achieved through center alignment, then productivity increases, but the alignment process becomes more critical and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs alignment adjustments before production begins. By using the image display system to pre-align the downstream apparatus position, the system ensures optimal positioning is achieved beforehand, allowing high-rate operation to commence without interruption for alignment adjustments during production.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an image display screen as an intermediary between the operator and the downstream apparatus. This intermediary provides a virtual view that allows operators to make precise alignment adjustments without physically manipulating the apparatus, reducing the time required for alignment while ensuring accuracy for high-rate operation.
Data Source
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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.