Multi-Glossmeter Array for Ceramic Slab Polishing Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring the polishing degree of ceramic slabs are inefficient and lack comprehensive coverage, relying on manual sampling and limited point measurements, which increases waste and reduces production efficiency without standardizing the checking process effectively.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a support plane and a measuring apparatus with multiple inclined glossmeters that can scan the entire surface of moving ceramic slabs, allowing for precise measurement of the polishing degree across the entire visible surface without disrupting the production line, using a system of light sources, detectors, and electronic units to calculate the polishing degree in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual sample measurements using a manual glossmeter are used, then the measurement operation can be performed with simple equipment, but the measurement coverage is limited and the measurement precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring apparatus is divided into multiple independent glossmeters arranged side by side, each measuring a specific region of the slab. This segmentation allows comprehensive coverage of the entire slab surface while maintaining the simplicity of individual glossmeter components
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple glossmeters are combined into a single integrated measuring apparatus that scans across the slab surface. This merging provides comprehensive measurement coverage while the modular design keeps individual components simple and manageable
2Productivity
If manual glossmeter measurements are performed at sampling points, then the operation can be performed with minimal equipment, but the productivity is reduced due to time-consuming manual operations
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring apparatus performs continuous measurements as it scans across the slab surface, rather than discrete manual measurements at sampling points. This continuous scanning process significantly improves measurement efficiency and reduces the time required to assess the entire slab
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical operation of placing and reading a glossmeter at sampling points is replaced by an automated scanning system with multiple glossmeters that automatically measure across the slab surface, eliminating manual labor and reducing measurement time
3Measurement precision
If comprehensive surface measurement is implemented, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The comprehensive measurement task is segmented into multiple regional measurements by individual glossmeters, each handling a specific portion of the slab surface. This segmentation achieves comprehensive coverage while keeping each measurement unit simple and manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system transitions from point measurements in one dimension to a two-dimensional scanning array of multiple glossmeters. This dimensional expansion provides comprehensive surface coverage while organizing complexity in a structured, manageable spatial arrangement
4Loss of information
If manual sampling measurements are used, then the equipment cost is low, but the loss of information increases due to limited coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The slab surface is segmented into multiple measurement zones, each monitored by a dedicated glossmeter. This segmentation ensures that surface defect information from all regions is captured, eliminating the information loss inherent in limited sampling while organizing the measurement system in a simple, modular fashion
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 accurate and precise measurement of the polishing degree across the entire surface of ceramic slabs, reducing waste and increasing efficiency by providing a comprehensive picture of defects and polishing quality without increasing costs or slowing down the production line.
Implementation Method 1
each glossmeter comprises a light source configured to emit an emitted light beam directed along a prevalent emission direction incident the support plane and inclined with respect to the support plane by an acute angle, a measuring detector configured and positioned to receive a reflected light beam, wherein the reflected light beam derives from the light beam emitted as a result of a reflection on the slab passing on the support plane
Data Source
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AI summary
A device (10) for measuring a parameter indicative of a polishing degree of a moving slab (L) which comprises: - a support plane (21) on which at least one slab (L) passes along an advancement direction (A) parallel to the support plane (21); - at least one measuring apparatus (40) arranged above the support plane (21), at a non-zero distance therefrom, wherein the measuring apparatus (40) comprises a plurality of glossmeters (44) placed side by side with each other along a flanking direction parallel to the support plane (21) and inclined, preferably orthogonal, to the advancement direction (A), wherein each glossmeter (44) is configured to measure a respective value of a parameter indicative of a polishing degree of the slab (L) passing on the support plane (21).