Optical Measurement of Closure Lids Using Robotic Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for checking compliance with target parameters of closure lids, such as twist-off and press-on twist-off caps, are time-consuming, inaccurate, and dependent on manual measurement, leading to inefficient production processes and high disposal rates due to small deviations from target dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing a robot with multiple degrees of freedom and stationary optical sensors to automatically measure closure lids, allowing for high-accuracy detection of parameters from different sides and orientations, with a gripper for picking and positioning objects within detection ranges of sensors, enabling precise measurement and sorting of compliant and non-compliant lids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement methods are used to check closure lid parameters, then measurement accuracy can be maintained, but the checking process becomes extremely time-consuming and productivity drops significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement with an automated optical measurement system. A robot arm positions closure lids while optical sensors (cameras) capture images of multiple parameters simultaneously. Image processing algorithms automatically extract dimensional data, eliminating manual measurement while maintaining high accuracy and enabling rapid checking of multiple lids per minute.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates optical copies (images) of the closure lids using stationary cameras positioned at multiple angles. These digital copies are then processed to extract all required parameters without physical contact or manual intervention. Multiple parameters are measured simultaneously from the captured images, dramatically increasing checking speed while preserving measurement precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different measuring instruments are used to check all parameters from several sides, then comprehensive parameter detection is achieved, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single robotic system with multiple stationary optical sensors that can measure all required parameters (outer diameter, inner diameter, height, depth of features, thickness) from various orientations. The robot arm positions the closure lid to present different surfaces to the cameras, allowing one universal system to perform functions that previously required multiple specialized instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds the temporal dimension to the measurement process by capturing multiple images of the same closure lid from different positions and angles. Instead of moving multiple physical sensors around the object, the system keeps sensors stationary and moves the object through space, capturing comprehensive data across multiple dimensions and time points.
3Loss of information
If manual measurement and documentation is performed, then measurement results can be obtained, but the time required for data acquisition and storage increases, preventing timely tracing of manufacturing issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automated image processing algorithms that extract all measurement parameters directly from the captured images. The system automatically compares measured values against target parameters, identifies deviations, and records all data without human intervention. This eliminates the time-consuming manual data transcription and storage processes while ensuring complete and accurate measurement documentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates immediate feedback by automatically comparing measured parameters with target specifications and providing real-time results. The system can identify out-of-specification closure lids instantly and trigger appropriate actions, enabling rapid tracing and correction of manufacturing issues without the delays inherent in manual measurement and data processing.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device and a method for optically measuring an object (12, 14). A robot (34) with a moveable gripper (38) picks up an object (12, 14). A first stationary optical sensor (64) for determining a first parameter (OD, OV,...) of the object is provided. Another stationary optical sensor (72, 74, 76) allows another parameter (CP, CPA,...) of the object (12, 14) to be determined. The robot (34) places the object picked up by the gripper (38) on a support surface (62) in a detection range of the first optical sensor (64). Here, the first parameter (OD) is determined and the robot (34) moves the object, picked up by the gripper (38), within an additional detection range of the other optical sensor (72, 74, 76) for determining the other parameter (CP, CPA,...).