Sorting Apparatus with Time-Multiplexed Sensor Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sorting technologies face challenges in real-time identification of products due to interference between multiple sensors and detectors, leading to limited sensitivity and dynamic range, which hampers the effective discrimination of objects in a stream for quality control.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a controller to selectively actuate detection devices in a predetermined order, preventing interference by generating and combining multi-modal, multi-dimensional images from multiple sensors, including cameras and laser scanners, to identify product features and characteristics in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple detection devices are actuated simultaneously to identify multiple characteristics of products, then the ability to detect various product features is improved, but the devices interfere with each other's operation causing loss of sensitivity and dynamic range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by sequentially actuating different detection devices in time-multiplexed intervals rather than simultaneously. The controller activates each detection device (camera, laser scanner, fluorescence detector) in alternating time slots, allowing each device to operate without interference from others while still capturing all necessary product characteristics within a complete inspection cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the actuation timing of detection devices based on the inspection requirements. The controller dynamically switches between different detection modes and time intervals, optimizing the operational state of each device to prevent interference while maintaining comprehensive detection capability across varying product types and inspection conditions.
2Loss of information
If multiple sensors are operated simultaneously to provide comprehensive product information, then the quantity of detected features is improved, but the sensors destructively interfere with each other limiting identification ability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action through time-multiplexed sensor operation where each sensor (camera, laser scanner, fluorescence detector) is activated in sequential time intervals. This periodic actuation ensures that each sensor captures complete product feature information without destructive interference from other sensors, while the controller integrates data from all sensors to maintain comprehensive feature identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection process is segmented into distinct time intervals, with each detection device assigned to a specific time slot. This segmentation of the detection process in time domain prevents sensor interference while ensuring that all product features are captured across the segmented intervals, with the controller reconstructing the complete product profile from segmented data.
3Productivity
If detection devices are actuated in a stream processing environment to maintain real-time sorting, then the productivity is improved, but the interference between devices increases reducing measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by organizing detection device actuation into rapid sequential cycles that maintain real-time processing throughput. Each cycle activates sensors in predetermined time-multiplexed intervals, preventing interference while completing all measurements within a time frame that sustains high-speed stream sorting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller pre-establishes the actuation sequence and timing intervals for detection devices based on anticipated inspection requirements. This preliminary configuration of detection timing allows the system to maintain optimal measurement precision while sustaining real-time sorting productivity without requiring dynamic adjustments during 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
Enables accurate and efficient sorting of products by preventing destructive interference between sensors, enhancing sensitivity and dynamic range, allowing for improved feature detection and classification in real-time.
Implementation Method 1
providing a plurality of detection devices in the inspection station for identifying the multitude of characteristics of the individual products, and wherein the respective detection devices, when actuated, generate a device signal
Implementation Method 2
providing a controller for selectively actuating the respective detection devices in a predetermined order, and in real-time, so as to prevent interference in the operation of the selectively actuated detection devices
Implementation Method 3
forming a real-time, multiple-aspect representation of the individual products passing through the inspection station with the controller by utilizing the respective device signals generated by the detection device
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for sorting objects is described, and which provides high-speed image data acquisition to fuse multiple data streams in real-time, while avoiding destructive interference when individual sensors or detectors are utilized in providing data regarding features of a product to be inspected.