Multi-Segment Rod Measuring System Using Light Scattering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems lack the capability to precisely measure parameters, especially length and edge quality, of multi-segment rod-like articles, particularly tubular segments, which are crucial for ensuring product quality in the tobacco industry.
Innovation Solution
A measuring system that uses high-intensity non-scattered light to illuminate the front surface of filled segments, allowing light scattering to transmit information about segment geometry, enabling precise measurements of segment lengths and edge quality verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If direct illumination of the front surface of filled segments is implemented, then measurement precision of segment lengths and edge quality is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for precise positioning and high-intensity light sources
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring system divides the illumination process into two distinct parts: a first light source illuminates the front surface of filled segments directly, while a second light source illuminates the rear surface. This segmentation allows each light source to be optimized for its specific function, with the first source providing high-intensity direct illumination for precise measurement and the second source providing complementary illumination, thereby achieving high measurement precision while managing system complexity through functional division.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a light scattering medium as an intermediary element between the light sources and the detection system. This mediator enables the conversion of direct light into scattered light patterns that carry information about segment geometry and position, allowing precise measurements without requiring the detection system to directly interpret complex light paths, thus reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If high-intensity light sources are used to illuminate the front surface directly, then measurement precision is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring system employs periodic illumination patterns where light sources are activated in alternating sequences rather than simultaneously. The first light source illuminates the front surface during specific time intervals, and the second light source illuminates the rear surface during other intervals. This periodic action allows the system to achieve high measurement precision for edge quality verification while reducing overall energy consumption by avoiding continuous operation of high-intensity light sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different illumination qualities to different parts of the article: high-intensity direct illumination is applied locally to the front surface of filled segments where measurement precision is critical, while the rear surface receives complementary illumination. This localized quality approach ensures that energy-intensive high-intensity lighting is concentrated only where it provides maximum measurement value, optimizing the balance between measurement precision and energy consumption.
3Adaptability or versatility
If light scattering through the material is used to transmit information, then measurement capability is improved, but the measurement system cannot directly illuminate the front surface of tubular segments
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring system is designed with multi-functionality to handle different segment types and measurement requirements. The first light source can illuminate both front surfaces of filled segments and rear surfaces of tubular segments, while the second light source provides complementary illumination. This universal illumination configuration enables the system to measure various parameters (segment lengths, edge quality, position) across different article types without requiring separate illumination systems, thereby improving adaptability while maintaining ease of operation.
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
The system provides high precision in measuring tubular segment lengths and edge quality, ensuring consistent product quality by accurately determining geometrical parameters and detecting defects.
Implementation Method 1
the scattering of the light in the material of the segment would enable the measurement of article parameters, including segment lengths
Data Source
Figure 1~1b
Figure 2~2a
Figure 3~3a
AI summary
A measuring system for measuring parameters of a multi-segment rod-like article (1, 1', 1'') comprising at least one filled segment (3, 5) and at least one tubular end segment (2, 4), wherein the measuring system comprises: a transporting device (11); at least one illuminating device (12, 13) for generating a light beam (18, 19) for illuminating a front surface (3A, 5A, 3C) of the filled segment (3, 5) by passing through the interior of the tubular end segment (2, 4); a registering device (14) for registering an image (P, P", P''') of the multi-segment rod-like article (1, 1', 1''), wherein the registering device (14) is configured to receive light of the light beam (18, 19) scattered by the material of the filled segment (3, 5), which penetrates through a material of a wrapper (7) of the multi- segment rod-like article (1, 1', 1'') and reaches the registering device (14), forming an outline of the front surface (3A, 5A, 3C) of the filled segment (3, 5) in the image (P, P", P'''); and a processing unit (22) configured to process the image (P, P'', P''') of the multi-segment rod-like article (1, 1', 1'') registered by the registering device (14) and to determine the production process parameters and/or parameters of the multi-segment rod-like article (1, 1', 1'').