Time-Varying Air-Jet Control for Adaptive Object Sorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing airflow-based sorting techniques fail to effectively alter the trajectories of objects with different characteristics, leading to unsuccessful guidance towards intended locations.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a controllable air stream with time-varying control, where image data from sensors classifies objects and adjusts the airflow profile dynamically based on object characteristics, including material type, shape, and proximity to neighbors, to guide objects to desired destinations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a static airflow approach is used to direct objects, then the system is simple to operate, but it cannot successfully alter trajectories of objects with different characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic airflow control by adjusting air stream parameters (velocity, direction, duration) in real-time based on object characteristics detected by sensors. The system transitions from static to dynamic control, where the airflow profile is continuously adapted to match the specific properties of each object being sorted, thereby improving trajectory alteration success while managing complexity through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes physical parameters of the air stream (velocity, pressure, duration, direction) based on detected object characteristics such as mass, shape, and material composition. By dynamically adjusting these parameters rather than using a fixed airflow pattern, the system achieves reliable trajectory control for diverse objects without requiring complex mechanical modifications.
2Manufacturing precision
If airflow parameters are adjusted for each object characteristic, then sorting precision is improved, but the control system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates sensor systems that detect object characteristics (mass, shape, material) and provide feedback to the control system. This feedback loop enables automatic adjustment of airflow parameters for each object, achieving high sorting precision without manual intervention. The feedback mechanism manages control complexity by using automated decision-making algorithms rather than complex mechanical adjustment systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with electronic/sensor-based control. Instead of using complex mechanical systems to physically adjust airflow for each object, the patent uses sensor detection and electronic control to modulate air stream parameters, thereby achieving precise sorting with simpler overall system architecture.
3Measurement precision
If time-varying airflow control is implemented, then object guidance accuracy is improved, but the response time requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary detection and analysis of object characteristics before the object reaches the airflow interaction zone. Sensors detect and classify objects in advance, allowing the control system to pre-calculate optimal airflow parameters. This preliminary action enables accurate time-varying airflow control without excessive response time, as the system is already prepared with the appropriate control profile when the object arrives.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses rapid sensor detection and fast electronic control to quickly determine object characteristics and initiate the appropriate airflow profile. By skipping unnecessary intermediate steps and using direct sensor-to-control coupling, the system achieves high guidance accuracy with minimal response time delay.
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 achieves precise object sorting by ensuring appropriate airflow direction and force application, enhancing the success rate of guiding objects to their intended destinations.
Implementation Method 1
Directing airflow at the object will alter the trajectory of the object and guide the object to a destination location
Data Source
AI summary
Time-varying control of a controllable air stream is disclosed, including: a set of image sensors configured to capture image data showing a target object being conveyed by a conveyor device along a Y-direction; an array of air jets located along an X-direction, wherein the X-direction crosses the Y-direction; and a processor configured to: receive the image data from the set of image sensors; determine a classification of the target object within the image data; and modify a two-dimensional firing polygon of air to be directed by the array of air jets on the target object based at least in part on the classification of the target object; and wherein the array of air jets is configured to perform a sorting operation on the target object as the target object is translated across the array of air jets based at least in part on the modified two-dimensional firing polygon.