Object Recording System with Multi-Path Sensor Fill Level Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing recording systems for objects, such as goods checkout and deposit return systems, lack automation in conveying objects into recording devices, leading to potential errors and increased operational complexity due to manual adjustments of object separation devices.
Innovation Solution
A sensor device that sends sensor signals along different signal paths to determine the fill level of a recording device, allowing for the control of conveyor belt speeds and object separation, using infrared or other sensors to assess signal interactions and interruptions for accurate fill level estimation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual adjustment of object separation devices is used, then the system can be operated with simple sensor devices, but the automation level decreases and operational errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensor devices to automatically detect object presence and fill levels, enabling the conveyor system to self-regulate its operation without manual intervention. The control unit processes sensor signals to automatically adjust conveyor operation and object separation, making the system serve itself.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical adjustment of object separation devices is replaced by an automated control system that uses sensor signals to electronically control the conveyor and separation mechanisms. This substitution of mechanical manual operation with sensor-based electronic control increases automation while managing system complexity through integrated control.
2Loss of information
If sensors are arranged on conveyor belts to detect goods, then the conveyor can be automatically started, but the system lacks fill level detection capability
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is segmented into multiple sensor devices arranged at different positions and orientations around the recording device. This segmentation allows detection of fill levels at different heights and locations, providing comprehensive fill level information without requiring a single complex sensor system.
Solution Approach 2:
Sensor devices are arranged not only on the conveyor belt but also on the recording device itself, utilizing vertical and lateral dimensions. This multi-dimensional arrangement enables fill level detection by observing signal interruptions from multiple angles, adding informational depth without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensor signals are sent along different signal paths, then fill level detection accuracy improves, but the sensor system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each sensor device is designed to perform multiple functions: detecting object presence, determining fill levels, and providing information for conveyor control. This multi-functionality allows a single sensor device to contribute to multiple detection objectives, improving measurement precision without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sensor signals from different sensor devices are merged and processed by a single control unit. This consolidation of signal processing allows the system to achieve high fill level detection precision through combined sensor data while managing complexity through centralized control rather than distributed processing for each sensor.
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
Enhances automation by enabling precise control of conveyor systems and object routing, reducing errors and operational complexity, while providing real-time feedback on fill levels and system readiness to users and personnel.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor device is designed to send sensor signals along different signal paths via the recording device in order to determine a fill level of the recording device based on an interaction of at least one of the sensor signals with objects conveyed into the recording device
Data Source
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AI summary
A receiving system (4) for receiving objects comprises at least one receiving device (40, 41) for receiving objects (7), a conveyor device (2) which has at least one conveyor belt section (20-24) for conveying objects (7) into a Conveying direction (F) in which has at least one receiving device (40, 41), and a sensor device (6) arranged on the at least one receiving device (40, 41) for detecting objects (7) in the at least one receiving device (40, 41) . It is provided that the sensor device (6) is designed to send sensor signals (S, S') along different signal paths via the recording device (40, 41) in order to use an interaction to determine at least one of the sensor signals (S, S') with in close objects (7) conveyed by the receiving device (40, 41) to a fill level of the receiving device (40, 41). In this way, a receiving system for receiving objects is made available that enables further automation, particularly when objects are conveyed into a receiving device.