Optical Mouse Sensor for Banknote Feature Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for recognizing features of flat objects, such as banknotes, are complex, expensive, and bulky, limiting their use to specialized applications and requiring significant space, making them unsuitable for quick and inexpensive inspections in high-speed machine handling processes.
Innovation Solution
A device equipped with an optical sensor from a computer mouse, capable of high-speed image capture and processing, combined with a processor and interface for evaluating light signals, allowing for the detection of features and quality criteria in flat objects, including security features, with optional use of lasers for enhanced resolution and LED for coherent illumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional devices for recognizing features of flat objects are used, then reliable detection of security features is achieved, but the device complexity, cost, and space requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a standard optical sensor from a computer mouse - a mass-produced consumer device - for the specialized task of detecting security features on banknotes. The sensor's original function (capturing images for mouse positioning) is extended to perform optical inspection of security features, eliminating the need for dedicated complex inspection hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by relying on the optical sensor to capture light reflections and emissions from the banknote, creating a digital representation of the security features. This optical copy is then analyzed by evaluation unit to detect authenticity, replacing the need for physical comparison methods or complex optical verification systems.
2Measurement precision
If conventional feature recognition devices are used, then accurate security feature detection is achieved, but the device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a disposable/mass-produced optical sensor from a computer mouse instead of expensive, specialized inspection equipment. The sensor is a commodity component available at low cost, enabling affordable deployment of feature recognition systems without requiring investment in specialized hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes mechanical or complex optical verification systems with an electronic optical sensor and software-based evaluation. Instead of using elaborate mechanical inspection devices or complex optical pathways, the solution uses a digital sensor coupled with algorithmic analysis to achieve precise feature detection.
3Productivity
If high-speed transport of flat objects is implemented, then productivity increases, but detection accuracy decreases due to speed fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the evaluation process adaptive to varying transport speeds. The control unit adjusts the evaluation parameters and timing based on the actual speed at which the flat object passes through the inspection zone, allowing accurate detection even when speed fluctuates during high-speed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback by having the sensor continuously monitor the object during transport and the control unit adjust evaluation based on real-time data. The system processes optical signals as they are captured and adjusts detection parameters according to the actual conditions observed, ensuring accurate detection despite speed variations.
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
Enables rapid, cost-effective inspection of flat objects at high speeds, with compact dimensions, capable of distinguishing genuine from counterfeit items and assessing object quality, such as adhesive tape, contamination, and wear, while supporting high-resolution imaging and feature detection.
Implementation Method 1
a lighting device for illuminating the transported objects and with a sensor for detecting the light reflected and / or emitted by the object
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device and a method for detecting characteristics of a flat item, particularly of a security. For this purpose, the device comprises at least one light source illuminating the item with light, at least one sensor detecting the light reflected and/or emitted by the item, wherein the sensor is a computer mouse sensor of an optical computer mouse, and a transport unit transporting the item relative to the light source and the sensor in the transport direction.