Optical Sorter Dual Light Source Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical sorters have limitations in distinguishing accuracy due to the inability to acquire a red reflected image combining reflected and transmitted red light, which restricts the types of distinguishable defective products.
Innovation Solution
The optical sorter includes two light sources emitting light of the same wavelength on opposite sides of a transit route, with an optical sensor detecting light during multiple scan periods using varying lighting patterns to acquire different types of images, enhancing distinguishing accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single light source is used to emit red light, then the device structure is simple, but the types of acquirable images are limited and distinguishing accuracy is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lighting function into multiple light sources (first light source and second light source) positioned at different locations. Each light source illuminates the sorting target from a different direction, enabling the acquisition of multiple types of images (reflected light image, transmitted light image, and combined image) that can be used to distinguish different types of defective products with higher accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a spatial dimension to the lighting configuration by positioning light sources at different locations (first side and second side opposite from the first side) relative to the transit route. This spatial arrangement enables the optical sensor to capture light from multiple directions, creating additional image types that improve distinguishing accuracy without merely intensifying a single light source.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources are used to emit light from opposite sides, then the types of acquirable images increase and distinguishing accuracy is enhanced, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the light source system where each light source serves multiple functions: the first light source contributes to both reflected light detection and transmitted light detection, and the second light source similarly contributes to both image types. This multi-functionality allows the system to acquire multiple image types (reflected, transmitted, and combined) using a relatively compact configuration, improving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic control of the light sources through alternating scan periods (first scan period and second scan period) with different lighting patterns. During the first scan period, the first light source is activated; during the second scan period, the second light source is activated. This periodic operation allows the system to sequentially acquire different image types using the same optical sensor, increasing adaptability while managing device complexity through time-division multiplexing.
3Productivity
If light sources are continuously on, then all image types can be acquired simultaneously, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic control of the light sources by alternating between different lighting patterns in successive scan periods. During the first scan period, the first light source is turned on while the second is off; during the second scan period, the second light source is turned on while the first is off. This periodic operation enables the acquisition of multiple image types over time without requiring both light sources to operate simultaneously, thereby reducing energy consumption while maintaining productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the lighting pattern based on the scan period, switching between different illumination configurations. The light source control part changes the operational state of the light sources from static continuous operation to dynamic periodic operation, allowing the system to adapt energy consumption to the actual imaging requirements while maintaining efficient image acquisition capability.
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 configuration increases the types of acquirable images, thereby enhancing the accuracy of distinguishing defective products and foreign objects, and allows for the detection of a wider range of defective products, such as green immature grains.
Implementation Method 1
the optical sensor on the one side detects red light reflected by the sorting target
Implementation Method 2
the optical sensor on the other side detects red light transmitted through the sorting target
Data Source
AI summary
An optical sorter includes a first light source disposed on a first side, a second light source disposed on a second side, an optical sensor configured to detect light during a plurality of scan periods including a first scan period and a second scan period, a determination part configured to determine a foreign object and/or a defective product, and a light source control part. The light source control part is configured to control the first light source and the second light source during the first scan period so as to turn on the first light source and/or the second light source in a first lighting pattern, which is a lighting pattern arbitrarily selected from a lighting pattern in which the first light source and the second light source are at least partially on, a lighting pattern in which only one of the first light source and the second light source is at least partially on, and a lighting pattern in which only the other of the first light source and the second light source is at least partially on, and is also configured to control the first light source and the second light source during the second scan period so as to turn on the first light source and/or the second light source in a second lighting pattern, which is a lighting pattern selected arbitrarily except for the first lighting pattern.