On-the-fly Container Inspection via Tangential Optical Axis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container manufacturing facilities face challenges in systematically inspecting containers for shape defects on-the-fly, especially at high production rates, which can lead to mechanical component damage and costly interruptions.
Innovation Solution
A transport system equipped with a frame, wheels for gripping and moving containers, and an optical inspection device positioned on either side of a transit point. The inspection device includes a camera and screen to capture images of containers as they pass through, allowing for real-time comparison to a model and immediate ejection of non-compliant containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If optical inspection is implemented to detect shape defects, then container quality control is improved, but production time is increased due to inspection duration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a high-speed optical inspection system that captures images of containers during their rapid movement through the production line. The camera takes pictures at multiple positions along the container's path, allowing inspection to occur in the time the container is already moving through the system, rather than stopping production for inspection. This enables inspection of containers at speeds up to 40,000 per hour while maintaining detection accuracy.
2Productivity
If inspection speed is increased to match production rate, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection system divides the container's movement path into multiple inspection positions (first, second, and third positions). At each position, the camera captures images from different angles and distances. This segmentation allows the system to collect sufficient data for accurate shape defect detection while the container moves rapidly through the inspection zone, maintaining both speed and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-positions the camera and defines multiple capture points along the container's expected path before inspection begins. This preliminary setup allows the camera to automatically capture images at the correct positions without real-time adjustment, enabling high-speed inspection while maintaining consistent image quality and measurement precision across all containers.
3Measurement precision
If mechanical inspection is used for contact metrology, then measurement accuracy is improved, but production rate is reduced due to handling time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact inspection systems with an optical inspection system using cameras and image processing. This substitution eliminates the need for physical contact with the containers, allowing inspection to occur without slowing down the production line or requiring additional handling time, while still achieving accurate shape measurement through optical capture and analysis.
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 solution enables systematic, on-the-fly inspection and ejection of non-compliant containers, reducing the risk of mechanical damage and maintaining high production efficiency by avoiding costly interruptions.
Implementation Method 1
a camera (19) comprising a lens (20) oriented along an optical axis (O) located substantially in a plane (P) of tangency to the path containing the point (T) of transit
Data Source
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AI summary
A system (7) for transporting articles (2), which comprises a frame (8) and: - at least one first wheel (13) turning with respect to the frame (8) about a first axis (A1) of rotation and carrying, at its periphery, a series of members (15) for gripping articles (2) which define, for the articles (2), a path (TRA) of movement in the arc of a circle; - a device (18) for optical inspection of the articles (2) which includes, on either side of a transit point (T) situated on the path (TRA): ∘ an imaging apparatus (19) comprising a lens (20) orientated along an optical axis (O) substantially located in a plane (P) tangential to the path containing the transit point (T); and ∘ a screen (21) placed opposite the lens (20), perpendicular to the optical axis (O).