X-ray Fluorescence Measurement Automation via Optical Recognition

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing X-ray fluorescence measuring apparatuses require manual and precise positioning of measurement objects, which is time-consuming and inefficient for quality control processes.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that utilize an optical device to capture an overview image of the measuring table, allowing for automated recognition and alignment of measurement objects, and enabling efficient measurement tasks to be performed using X-ray fluorescence.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual positioning of measurement objects is used, then measurement precision is maintained, but productivity decreases due to time-consuming manual handling

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement efficiencyVSAvoidmanual handling time

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service through automated object recognition and positioning. The measurement object itself (via its identifier) provides the information needed for automated alignment, eliminating the need for manual positioning operations while maintaining measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning operations with an automated optical-detection system. The optical device captures images of identifiers to determine object position and orientation, substituting human manual alignment with automated image processing and control system actions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If predefined positioning of measurement objects is required, then measurement accuracy is ensured, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complex positioning procedures

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidobject placement simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary action by having the measurement object carry its own identifier with positioning information before the measurement process. This pre-provided information enables automated recognition and alignment, allowing objects to be placed arbitrarily without requiring precise pre-positioning by the operator.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback from the optical device's image capture and processing to automatically adjust the measurement system's alignment. The control device receives image data, determines object position and orientation, and automatically aligns the measurement apparatus, providing continuous feedback that ensures accuracy while simplifying operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If automated recognition system is introduced, then productivity improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvequality control efficiencyVSAvoidsystem structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The optical device serves multiple functions: capturing images of identifiers, determining object position, and providing data for automated alignment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving automated recognition and improved productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 solution enables automated and efficient quality control measurements by allowing arbitrary placement of measurement objects, reducing manual handling time, and improving measurement accuracy through automated alignment and data processing.

Implementation Method 1

capturing an overview image of at least one region of the measuring table that includes a least a portion of the at least one measurement object

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

a primary radiation is directed from a radiation source of an X-ray fluorescence device onto a measuring table measurement point

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectX-ray fluorescence: Fluorescence

Implementation Method 3

A primary radiation is directed from a radiation source of an X-ray fluorescence device onto a measuring table measurement point

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectX-ray radiation: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS12287302B2Method and measuring device for measuring objects by means of x-ray fluorescence

Publication Date: 2025.04.29 HELMUT FISCHER GMBH & CO INSTITUT FUER ELEKTRONIK UND MESTECHNIK

AI summary

A measurement object is placed on a region of a measuring table, and an overview image of the region of the measuring table is captured by an optical device. A type of the measurement object is determined from the overview image or from an identifier on the measurement object or an identifier positioned adjacently thereto. The position and/or the alignment of the measurement object on the measurement table is determined from the overview image. At least one measurement location of the measurement object is positioned in a measurement point of an X-ray fluorescence device and at least one measured value is determined from the at least one measurement location of the measurement object. The at least one measured value is compared with a setpoint value stored in a data processing device and a measurement result for the at least one measurement location of the measurement object is output.