Sorting Apparatus Using Controlled Signal Interference for Contrast

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sorting technologies face limitations in real-time identification of internal and external characteristics of products, particularly in agricultural items, due to signal interference and sensitivity issues when using multiple sensors simultaneously, which hinders accurate discrimination and removal of defects like 'sugar end' in potatoes and hidden precursors to harmful compounds.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that utilize a combination of electromagnetic radiation sources and detectors aligned along a single focal plane, with controlled illumination and detection to optimize contrast and interference, allowing for real-time multi-aspect representation and sorting of products based on internal and external characteristics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple sensors or interrogating means are employed simultaneously to detect product characteristics, then the ability to identify external and internal features is enhanced, but signal interference occurs causing loss of sensitivity and dynamic range

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection abilityVSAvoidsignal-to-noise ratio

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the detection process by spatially separating multiple sensors along a focal plane rather than concentrating them in one location. This segmentation allows each sensor to detect different characteristics without overlapping signal interference, maintaining sensitivity and dynamic range while enhancing overall detection capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from single-point or single-axis detection to multi-dimensional detection by arranging sensors along a focal plane. This dimensional expansion enables simultaneous detection of multiple product characteristics across different spatial positions without signal interference, resolving the contradiction between enhanced detection and maintained signal quality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Measurement precision

If multiple illumination sources are used to enhance contrast, then detection precision is improved, but signal interference and sensitivity loss occur

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovecontrastVSAvoidsensitivity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by positioning multiple illumination sources at specific locations along the focal plane, where each source illuminates a particular region or characteristic. This localized illumination approach enhances contrast for specific features without causing widespread signal interference, maintaining sensitivity while improving detection precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces the focal plane as an intermediary structure that organizes and separates illumination sources and sensors. This intermediary arrangement allows multiple illumination sources to work simultaneously without direct signal interference, as each source's effect is localized to its corresponding sensor position, thereby maintaining sensitivity while enhancing contrast.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If sensors are positioned to detect multiple characteristics simultaneously, then productivity is improved, but signal isolation becomes difficult causing harmful interference

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereal-time detectionVSAvoidsignal interference

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses dimensional separation by arranging sensors and illumination sources along a focal plane rather than in a single dimension. This spatial distribution enables simultaneous detection of multiple product characteristics in real-time while preventing signal interference through physical separation, thus maintaining productivity without harmful factors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the spatial parameter of sensor and illumination source positioning along the focal plane. By adjusting these positional parameters, the system achieves real-time multi-characteristic detection while maintaining signal isolation, resolving the contradiction between productivity and signal interference.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Enhances the ability to detect and sort products by increasing contrast and signal amplitude, enabling more precise identification and removal of defects and harmful characteristics, even those not visible externally, thereby improving product quality and safety.