Optical Granule Portioning Apparatus for High-Speed Precision Weighing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring and portioning granular chemicals, particularly in high-speed mass production of ammunition cartridges, are either too slow or too inaccurate due to variations in granule size, shape, and density, leading to inconsistent propellant loads and projectile performance.
Innovation Solution
A high-speed automatic apparatus that precisely measures granular chemicals by weight, automatically recalibrates, and adjusts portions to match desired target weights, avoiding crushing or slicing of granules, and capable of processing at rates exceeding 240 portions per minute, regardless of shape or size variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If volumetric measurement methods are used to measure granule portions, then the measurement process is simple and fast, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to variations in granule size, shape, and density
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/volumetric measurement systems with an optical measurement system. A sensor (optical detector) measures the volume of individual granules by detecting light scattering or blocking properties, then calculates weight using known density relationships. This substitution enables both high speed (optical detection is inherently fast) and high precision (measuring actual granule volume rather than relying on volumetric displacement assumptions).
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts measurement parameters based on detected granule properties. When granules of different sizes, shapes, or densities are detected, the system modifies measurement and calculation parameters to compensate for variations, maintaining consistent portioning accuracy across diverse granule characteristics while operating at high speed.
2Device complexity
If mechanical portioning methods are used to handle non-spherical granules, then the device complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision deteriorates due to crushing and slicing of granules
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical handling and portioning mechanisms with a non-contact optical measurement and controlled dispensing system. Individual granules are detected optically, their properties measured, and then precisely dispensed using controlled release mechanisms rather than mechanical force, eliminating crushing and slicing while maintaining granule integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary measurement and control stage between granule storage and dispensing. Optical sensors detect and characterize each granule, and a control system processes this information to determine optimal dispensing parameters, serving as an intermediary that prevents direct mechanical contact and damage while enabling precise portioning.
3Productivity
If high speed portioning is implemented to match cartridge loading rates, then the productivity increases, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to reduced measurement time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary measurement and characterization of granules before they are dispensed. Optical sensors detect and measure granule properties in advance, allowing the control system to pre-calculate dispensing parameters and prepare for accurate portioning, enabling high speed operation without sacrificing measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The replacement of mechanical measurement with optical measurement enables faster data acquisition. Optical detectors can measure granule properties almost instantaneously compared to mechanical methods, allowing high speed portioning while maintaining or improving measurement accuracy through rapid, non-contact detection.
Data Source
AI summary
An automated granule portioning system includes at least one volumetric measuring chamber capable of adjusting the volume of the chamber automatically to a programmed target volume and arranged to receive a first portion of granules into the chamber to fill the target volume. A transport system automatically delivers the target volume of granules from the chamber to a weighing device. A granule metering device dispenses granules and, depending on a signal from the weighing device that the first portion of granules is below a programmed target weight, dispenses granules to the first portion to increase the weight to achieve a second portion having the target weight.