Sorting Apparatus with Selective Electromagnetic Background for Contrast
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sorting technologies face challenges in achieving effective identification and separation of objects due to destructive interference among multiple sensors, leading to reduced sensitivity and dynamic range, especially when used in real-time imaging of product streams.
Innovation Solution
The method involves selectively energizing a background element and radiators to generate discrete electromagnetic radiation bands, which are directed towards a product stream, while using strategically positioned detectors to enhance contrast and reduce interference, employing a controller to optimize the operation of these components in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sensors are actuated simultaneously to enhance object identification capability, then the ability to detect multiple features is improved, but destructive interference occurs leading to reduced sensitivity and dynamic range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by sequentially energizing different electromagnetic radiation sources (first source, second source, third source) rather than simultaneously. Each source is activated in alternating time intervals, allowing detectors to capture signals from individual sources without interference. This temporal separation maintains the ability to detect multiple features while eliminating destructive interference, thereby preserving sensitivity and dynamic range.
2Measurement precision
If multiple electromagnetic radiation sources are used to improve object contrast, then feature detection capability is enhanced, but signal isolation between different modes becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic activation of different electromagnetic radiation sources, where each source is energized in alternating time intervals. This temporal separation allows detectors to associate signals with specific sources, maintaining signal isolation while achieving high object contrast through the use of multiple radiation types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the electromagnetic radiation detection process by assigning different detectors to detect signals from different sources at different time intervals. This segmentation approach maintains clear signal attribution while utilizing multiple radiation sources to enhance object contrast and feature detection.
3Productivity
If real-time imaging is performed to enable timely sorting decisions, then productivity is improved, but the time available for signal processing is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs real-time imaging by sequentially activating electromagnetic radiation sources and capturing signals during brief time intervals. The periodic activation pattern allows the system to acquire multiple types of information in rapid succession, enabling timely sorting decisions without requiring extensive processing time for each individual signal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous useful action by seamlessly transitioning between different radiation sources and detectors without interruption. The sequential activation and detection process creates an uninterrupted flow of information acquisition, enabling real-time sorting while maximizing the use of available time for signal processing.
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 approach improves the contrast between objects and the inspection station, enabling more effective identification and sorting of products by minimizing destructive interference and enhancing sensitivity, thus improving the accuracy of product classification.
Implementation Method 1
selectively energizing a background element which is located adjacent to the inspection station so as to generate one or more discrete, first electromagnetic radiation bands
Implementation Method 2
energizing, in a selective manner, one or more radiators which are located adjacent to the inspection station so as to individually generate one or more discrete, second electromagnetic radiation bands
Implementation Method 3
positioning adjacent to the inspection station individual electromagnetic radiation detectors for detecting the first and second, discrete, electromagnetic radiation bands which are emitted, and either reflected or transmitted by the objects of interest to be sorted
Implementation Method 4
selectively optimizing the energizing and operation of the one or more radiators, the background element, and the electromagnetic radiation detectors, in real-time, and by way of the controller, while detecting the objects of interest and/or products with the respective electromagnetic radiation radiators and detectors, and simultaneously, either encouraging and/or inhibiting the detection of the respective objects of interest and/or products by at least some of the electromagnetic radiation detectors so as to improve a contrast generated or created between the respective objects of interest and/or products, and the energized and deenergized background element
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for sorting is described, and which includes an arrangement for controllably and operably coupling to a controller, and then selectively energizing each of a background element; laser scanner; first and second electromagnetic radiation detectors; line scan imaging assembly; and selectively energizable radiators, so as to improve the detection of individual products and/or other objects of interest forming a product stream by increasing the contrast of the respective products or specific characteristics thereof, and/or objects of interest in a multiplicity of electrical signals which are received, and then processed by the controller, as the product stream passes through an inspection station.