Optical Capsule Position Detection in Filter Rods
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the tobacco processing industry, existing methods fail to accurately and efficiently determine the position of capsules in filter rods, leading to potential damage during processing, which can result in uncontrolled flavor release and defective products.
Innovation Solution
An optical measuring device using at least three independent optical axes, arranged at angles of at least 30°, is employed to determine the two-dimensional position of capsules perpendicular to the filter rod axis, providing accurate position data for preventing damage and controlling capsule insertion and processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If microwave measuring devices are used to detect capsule position, then measurement capability is provided, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces microwave measuring devices with an optical measuring device that uses light sources and photodetectors to detect capsule position. This substitution of measurement principle reduces device complexity and cost while maintaining measurement capability, as optical components are simpler and more cost-effective than microwave systems for this application.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical measuring device is divided into multiple independent optical axes (at least three), each with its own light source and photodetector. This segmentation allows the system to determine two-dimensional position information through multiple measurement angles, achieving accurate position detection without requiring a single complex microwave device.
2Reliability
If mechanical stress avoidance measures are implemented for off-center capsules, then capsule damage is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the optical measuring device to detect capsule position in advance during the insertion process. By knowing the capsule position beforehand, the system can adjust processing parameters or apply compensatory measures during subsequent processing steps, preventing damage without requiring complex mechanical stress avoidance designs throughout the entire processing mechanism.
3Reliability
If elaborate structural measures are used to avoid mechanical stress on off-center capsules, then capsule damage is prevented, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the optical measuring device continuously monitors capsule position and provides measurement signals to a control unit. This feedback enables real-time adjustments to processing parameters, allowing standard processing mechanisms to handle off-center capsules effectively without requiring elaborate structural modifications to the processing machine itself.
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
This solution reduces the likelihood of capsule damage, ensures precise positioning, and eliminates the need for complex and costly microwave devices, offering a cost-effective and accurate method for maintaining capsule integrity throughout the processing cycle.
Implementation Method 1
the filter rod being irradiated on the casing side along at least three optical axes which are mutually independent of one another
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
AI summary
The method involves arranging three optical axes mutually around each other around a filter rod (40). The filter rod is irradiated on a casing side. Three separate measuring signals are obtained. Location of an object is determined in two directions perpendicular to the filter rod by the combination of the measurement signals. Deviation of a determined layer to a target layer is determined. Property bad rating of the layer of an object is performed on the basis of comparison of the determined deviation with a threshold value. An independent claim is also included for a measuring arrangement.