Pit Detection in Processed Fruit Using Image and Weight Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Detecting whether a pit has been completely removed from processed fruits, such as cherries, is a labor-intensive process, especially in high-speed pitting machines where partial removal or fragmentation of pits can occur, leading to inefficiencies in quality control.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing image capture and weighing mechanisms to determine the presence of pits in fruits by comparing estimated weights based on image data with actual weights post-pitting, using a receptacle with actuation mechanisms to rotate the fruit for multi-angle imaging and a weighing mechanism to assess weight differences, with a threshold-based determination for pit removal confirmation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual inspection methods are used to detect pits in processed fruits, then detection accuracy can be maintained, but labor intensity and processing time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection with an automated optical detection system using cameras and image processing algorithms. The system captures images of processed fruits and automatically analyzes them to detect remaining pits, eliminating the need for labor-intensive manual inspection while maintaining high detection accuracy through computer vision technology.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-inspection by equipping the detection apparatus with autonomous image capture and analysis capabilities. The cameras and processing unit work together to automatically detect pits without human intervention, allowing the system to inspect fruits independently and significantly reducing processing time compared to manual methods.
2Productivity
If automated optical detection systems are implemented, then processing speed increases, but detection precision may decrease due to challenges in identifying pit fragments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic image capture by taking multiple images of each fruit from different angles and positions. The system captures images at various stages as fruits move through the processing line, allowing the algorithm to reconstruct three-dimensional information and detect pit fragments that may be obscured in single static views, thereby maintaining high detection precision while operating at automated speeds.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from two-dimensional image analysis to three-dimensional reconstruction by capturing images from multiple angles and combining them. This dimensional enhancement allows the detection algorithm to identify pit fragments that might be hidden or indistinguishable in single-plane images, improving detection accuracy without sacrificing processing speed.
3Reliability
If multiple imaging angles are captured to improve detection accuracy, then pit detection reliability increases, but device complexity and data processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a multi-functional detection system where a single apparatus performs multiple functions: capturing images from multiple angles, processing the images through algorithms, and making detection decisions. The system integrates camera modules, actuators for positioning, and processing units into one unified device that can handle various detection scenarios, reducing overall system complexity compared to having separate systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines multiple image capture functions into a single integrated detection apparatus. Rather than using separate cameras for each angle, the patent merges the imaging capabilities into one system that can capture multiple views sequentially or simultaneously, reducing the number of independent components and simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining high detection reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure describes a systems and methods to determine the presence of pits or pit fragments in a piece of fruit that has undergone a pitting process.