Imaging-Based Workpiece Positioning Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing apparatuses that move workpieces to action positions for processing, such as dicing, grinding, and laser processing, face complications and increased costs due to the need for multiple sensors and monitoring systems to ensure accurate movement and positioning.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus that includes holding means, action means, and moving means, along with imaging and control systems to compare imaged regions with stored basic images, allowing for accurate movement and positioning without the need for multiple sensors, thereby simplifying the apparatus structure and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensors and complex monitoring systems are installed to ensure accurate movement and monitoring of workpiece positions, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple monitoring functions (linear scale readings, sensor detections, switch signals) into a single integrated image recognition system. The imaging device captures the workpiece position and processing tool location, and the control unit processes all position information from this single image source, eliminating the need for separate linear scales, sensors, and switches at each position.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical and electronic monitoring systems (linear scales, reading heads, sensors, detecting switches) with an optical imaging system. The imaging device uses optical fields to capture position information, and the control unit uses image processing algorithms to determine positions, substituting mechanical measurement systems with an optical-field-based system.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors and detecting switches are installed at each target position to monitor workpiece movement accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging device serves multiple functions simultaneously: it captures workpiece position, determines processing tool location, monitors movement accuracy, and provides visual feedback for operator guidance. This single multi-functional device replaces multiple specialized sensors and switches that would otherwise be needed at different positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a visual copy (image) of the workpiece and its position, which is then processed to extract position information. Instead of using physical sensors to detect position, the system captures an optical copy of the scene and analyzes it to determine positions and movements, reducing the need for physical detection components.
3Measurement precision
If linear scales and reading heads are installed to monitor movement of moving means, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical linear scales and reading heads with an optical imaging system. Instead of using mechanical gratings and optical readers to measure position, the imaging device captures images of position markers or features, and the control unit calculates positions from these images, eliminating mechanical measurement components.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is an apparatus including an imaging unit configured to image a region in which a holding unit is moved by operation of a moving unit, a basic image storage unit configured to store a basic image corresponding to proper operation of the holding unit or an action unit, and a controller configured to compare an image imaged by the imaging unit with the basic image stored by the basic image storage unit, and control the moving unit or the action unit such that the two images coincide with each other.