СПОСОБ ПОТОЧНОГО ИСПЫТАНИЯ УСТРОЙСТВ И УСТАНОВКА ДЛЯ ИСПЫТАНИЯ

СИСТЕМЫ И СПОСОБЫ ЗАХВАТА ИЗОБРАЖЕНИЙ В УСТАНОВКЕ КОНВЕЙЕРНОГО ТИПА ДЛЯ ВЫРАЩИВАНИЯ РАСТЕНИЙ

Device for measuring the colour of objects

The subject matter of the invention is a colour meter. The light emanating from an object (1) whose colour is to be established is fed to a photodetector arrangement. Arranged in the beam path of the photodetector arrangement are at least two dichroic mirrors (18, 21), of which each reflects or transmits a colour component with respect to a photoelectric receiver (20, 22). The aim of this is to make it possible for the colours to be measured without moving filters. ...

Kolorimetrisches Verfahren zum fortlaufenden Nachweis von Unreinheiten auf Aluminiumhydroxid.

SENSING A NARROW FREQUENCY BAND OF RADIATION AND EXAMINING OBJECTS OR ZONES

Detecting unwanted materials among cullet

An apparatus and a method for inspecting cullet for the presence of unwanted materials among the pieces of glass. A light source such as a laser directs light onto the cullet. At least one array of at least two light detectors is positioned to detect reflected light from the cullet. The detectors differentiate between non-uniformly scattered light from the cullet and generally uniformly scattered light from the debris. Signalling means are provided to signal the differentiation thereby to indicate the presence of debris in the cullet under inspection. When cullet is present on a moving cullet belt, light from the light source is intermittently scanned over the cullet in a raster-type scan. A multi-faceted rotatable mirror may be employed intermittently to reflect light onto the cullet.

SORTING DIAMONDS OR OTHER MINERALS.

IDENTIFYING THE POSITION OF OBJECTS OR ZONES

IDENTIFYING SPECIFIC OBJECTS OR ZONES

MONITORING AN APPARATUS WHICH USES SCANNED RADIATION

A METHOD OF IDENTIFYING SPECIFIC OBJECTS OR ZONES

“Proceeded colorimetric for the control uninterrupted of impurities on hydrated alumina”

PROCEDURE AND DEVICE FOR THE REAL TIME FLUORESCENCE REGULATION OF TRACE ELEMENTS

PROCEDURE FOR MEASURING THE MEAT TEXTURE.

KOLORIMETRI PROCEDURE FOR THE SEQUENTIAL PROOF OF IMPURITIES ON ALUMINIUM HYDROXIDE.

Light condensing device for inspecting quality inside fruits and vegetables, system comprising same, and use method thereof

A light condensing device for inspecting the quality inside fruits and vegetables, resolving the issue in which manually holding fruits for inspection is inefficient and cannot be used in large-scale fruit packaging production. The device comprises a housing (1), a halogen lamp (2), a diaphragm (3), a plano-convex lens support (4), a first plano-convex lens (5), a reflector lens fixing plate (6), a reflector (7), a plano-convex lens fixing plate (8), and a second plano-convex lens (9). The housing (1) is a sealed and non-transparent housing. The halogen lamp (2) is fixedly disposed at a left end of the housing (1), and extends into an inner portion of the housing (1). A pluggable diaphragm (3) is disposed at the right side of the halogen lamp (2), and is used to guide a lighting direction of the halogen lamp (2). The diaphragm (3) passes through the inner portion of the housing (1). The plano-convex lens support (4) is fixedly disposed inside the housing (1) at the right side of the diaphragm ...

Non-contact egg identification system for determining egg viability, and associated method

An egg identification system (100) for determining viability of an avian egg (1) is provided. Such a system (100) includes an emitter assembly (200) configured to emit electromagnetic radiation toward an egg (1). A detector assembly (300) is axially aligned with the emitter assembly (200) to detect electromagnetic radiation transmitted through the egg (1). The detector assembly (300) is spaced-apart from the egg (1) during operation thereof such that the detector assembly (300) does not contact the egg (1). The detected electromagnetic radiation is used to generate an output signal. The output signal is processed to determine whether there exists a periodic variation or an aperiodic perturbation in an intensity of the electromagnetic radiation transmitted through the egg (1) corresponding to action of a heart, such as heartbeat, or embryo movement, wherein the existence of the periodic variation or aperiodic perturbation indicates that the egg (1) is viable. An associated method is also ...

MEASUREMENT METHOD AND APPARATUS

A METHOD OF IDENTIFYING SPECIFIC OBJECTS OR ZONES

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR OPTICAL PRODUCT INSPECTION

Products having optically detectable straight lime segments are inspected for acceptability by forming one or more one-dimensional images of the product in which properly aligned straight line segments are respectively focused to points in the image. Such parameters as the location and image intensity of these one-dimensional image points are used to determine whether or not the product is acceptable. An optical Hough transform underlies these product inspection techniques.

AUTOMATIC ANALYSIS OR INSPECTION SYSTEM FOR OBJECT TRAVELLING ON A SUPPORT

La présente invention a pour objet un système d'analyse ou d'inspection automatique d'objets défilant sur un support, comprenant au moins un moyen d'éclairage (4), préférentiellement à large spectre, et au moins un moyen de détection ou détecteur (5), tous deux placés au-dessus du flux d'objets, les objets (2) étant pour une part au moins transparents, système caractérisé en ce que le support (3) réfléchit de façon diffuse une majorité, au moins 50%, de la lumière reçue dans le domaine spectral d'intérêt.

CHECK GRADER-ACTUATABLE INTERFACE FOR BOARD LUMBER SCANNING

A lumber check grader-actuatable interface (10) enables a check grader (12) to interact with grade-quality measured boards (14) of lumber conveyed (18) along a flow path (16) and passing in front (72) of the check grader. The interface accurately and continuously tracks the location of each board in front of a check grader and tracks the location of the check grader's hands relative to the boards. Gestures can, therefore, be used for a selected board to perform additional actions, such as changing the grade (112) or changing the trims (114). The interface enables a check grader to walk alongside and keep pace with a board of interest as it is transported and to provide feedback to the interface about a needed change for the board of interest. By knowing which board is of interest to a check grader, the interface can display additional information for only that board without overwhelming the check grader with non-stop information overload.

NON-CONTACT EGG IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING EGG VIABILITY, AND ASSOCIATED METHOD

CLASSIFICATION METHOD AND APPARATUS

There is provided a method for object classification, the method comprising the steps of: guiding (S1) a continuous stream of objects (4) from a transport mechanism (2) directly into an unsupported path (6), along which said object stream (6) is fed through a detection region (12); illuminating (S2) said detection region (12) with a radiation band in a first direction (10); optically scanning (S3) said detection region (12) to detect electromagnetic radiation reflected by the at least one object in the detection region (12) by viewing said detection region along a second direction (16), wherein the first direction (10) and the second direction (16) have a cross-section in the detection region (12) and forms an angle relative each other within the range of 10° - 80°; analyzing (S4) the information from the optical scanning; and classifying (S5) objects from the object stream in at least two different directions based on the analysis of the transparency information from the optical scanning ...

GLASS SHEET ACQUISITION AND POSITIONING SYSTEM

A glass sheet acquisition and positioning system and associated method are utilized in a glass sheet optical inspection system installed in-line in a glass sheet processing system. The acquisition and positioning system include an exterior support frame and a moveable glass sheet support frame connected to the exterior support frame such that the glass sheet support frame may be selectively positioned from first orientation whereby a glass sheet is removed from a conveyor and retained on the support frame, to a second orientation whereby the glass sheet is positioned for processing by the optical inspection system. The system may also include a glass sheet part identifier and a programmable control including logic for analyzing acquired image data and identifying the glass sheet as one of a set of known part types and thereafter securing and positioning the glass sheet on the glass sheet support frame based upon the part-shape analysis.

CONTACTLESS TESTING DEVICE SUPPORT FRAME FOR HIGH TEMPERATURE MOLDED ARTICLES, IN PARTICULAR GLASS ARTICLES

ABRÉGÉ L'invention concerne un châssis de montage pour dispositifs de contrôle sans contact d'objets moulés à haute température, placés sur un tapis convoyeur entraîné par rapport à un bâti d'inclinaison réglable dans un plan vertical. Le châssis selon l'invention comprend deux plans de référence parallèles reliés entre eux par des colonnes rigides de façon à définir une structure indéformable enjambant le tapis convoyeur à la manière d'un pont. La structure indéformable n'est pas reliée au bâti du convoyeur mais est supportée par l'intermédiaire de trois vérins à déplacements commandés. Au moins un dispositif comportant une source lumineuse émettant un faisceau lumineux dont les caractéristiques dépendent de l'inclinaison du tapis convoyeur, coopère avec un réseau de photodiodes capable d'émettre un signal électrique de commande des vérins supportant la structure indéformable afin de maintenir en permanence les plans de référence du châssis, rigoureusement parallèles au plan du tapis convoyeur ...

Quick page turning machine based on accounting vouchers

Two-sided visual detection device for workpieces

DISPOSITIF POUR LA DETECTION DE LA PRESENCE DE PRODUITS DANS DES LOGEMENTS CORRESPONDANTS ET POUR LE CONTROLE DES IRREGULARITES DU CONTOUR DE BASE DESDITS PRODUITS DEJA INTRODUITS DANS LEURS LOGEMENTS RESPECTIFS

LE DISPOSITIF EFFECTUE LE CONTROLE DE LA ZONE DELIMITEE PAR LE CONTOUR DE BASE DU PRODUIT 3 QUI EST DEJA A L'INTERIEUR DE L'ALVEOLE CORRESPONDANT 2 REALISE DANS UN RUBAN 1. ON PREVOIT UNE SOURCE 4 DE RADIATIONS ELECTROMAGNETIQUES DONT LE FAISCEAU FRAPPE UN COTE 1A DU RUBAN 1 EN CREANT UNE BANDE DE DIMENSIONS TELLES QU'ELLE RECOUVRE UNE FILE D'ALVEOLES 2; EN FACE DE L'AUTRE COTE DU RUBAN 1, AU NIVEAU DE LA BANDE, SE TROUVENT DES GUIDES 7 QUI ACHEMINENT CES RADIATIONS ET SONT ASSOCIES A DES RECEPTEURS 9 DE CES DERNIERES. LORSQUE LES ALVEOLES 2 D'UNE FILE TRANSVERSALE SE TROUVENT SUR LE MEME AXE QUE LES GUIDES 7 CORRESPONDANTS, DES SIGNAUX ELECTRIQUES SONT ENGENDRES PAR LES RECEPTEURS QUI FOURNISSENT L'INFORMATION SUR LA PRESENCE, OU NON, DES PRODUITS DANS LES ALVEOLES CORRESPONDANTS, OU LA NON-CORRESPONDANCE ENTRE LE CONTOUR DE BASE DU PRODUIT 3 ET LE CONTOUR DE REFERENCE DE CE DERNIER; CES SIGNAUX SONT TRAITES PAR UNE UNITE DE CONTROLE ET DE GESTION DES REBUTS 20.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPTICAL INSPECTION OF ELECTRONIC CIRCUITS

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ORIENTING A FRUIT UMBILICAL PARTICULARLY FOR ITS PACKAGING

자외선 양생에 대한 공정 감시

... 본 발명은 UV 양생가능한 래커로 코팅된 부품의 양생 상태를 측정하기 위한 인-시튜 공정 감시 장치에 관한 것으로, 이 장치는 래커를 양생하기 위한 적어도 하나의 방사선 소스(101), 뿐만 아니라 양생 상태를 결정하기 위해, 적어도 하나의 신호 소스(101) 및 부품으로부터 반사된 신호 소스의 반사를 측정하기 위한 적어도 하나의 분광계(103)를 포함하고, 측정은 무접촉 방식으로 실행되고, 측정을 위한 적어도 하나의 신호 소스는 양생을 위한 적어도 하나의 방사선 소스와 동일하다.

Substrate inspection device and substrate inspection method

The present invention is capable of suppressing the time needed for completing the inspection and carrying out detailed defect check. The substrate inspection device includes a substrate conveying unit for conveying substrates toward an X direction, a line scan camera for inspecting the defects of substrates being conveyed toward the X direction, a line scan camera driving part, a defect inspection part, a check camera for retrieving the image of inspected defect during conveying the substrates toward the X direction, a check camera driving part, and a control part.

MULTI-MODAL MACHINE-VISION QUALITY INSPECTION OF FOOD PRODUCTS

The invention to automatically recognize shape and surface defects of food products using computer image analysis is characterized by optical data being sampled by at least an optical sensor using combinations of different illumination and sampling modes. This is done to enhance detectability of surface differences, subsurface differences, or shape differences between a defective sample and a non-defective model of the food products. It uses a digital camera or an imaging spectrometer as the optical sensor.

A METHOD OF MEASURING MEAT TEXTURE

In a method of detecting meat texture the surface of the meat is illuminated in at least two directions which are substantially perpendicular to a base for the meat in a common illumination plane. A loose texture manifests itself in deep cracks (8, 9, 10) in e.g. the fillet of fish. When the surface of the fillet is illuminated in the directions (11 and 12), the depressions (8, 9, 10) bring about such a great contrast in the recording of an image of the surface that the image information can be processed electronically and be utilized for control of equipment, either for rejection of the fillet or for cutting away the damaged areas.

Inspection Apparatus, Inspection Method, And Program

To facilitate adjusting of a distance from an inspection target to an illumination section by providing a movable illumination section that is movable independently of the imaging section. An illumination apparatus has a plurality of LEDs arranged in a substantially annular form, a light diffusion member for diffusing light emitted from the plurality of LEDs, and a lighting control part for lighting the plurality of light sources in accordance with a predetermined lighting pattern when designated to start lighting. In particular, the illumination apparatus moves independently of a camera to adjust a distance to a workpiece. 115-. (canceled)16. An inspection apparatus comprising:an illumination section which has a plurality of light segments to illuminate the inspection target from three or more illumination directions;a processor for controlling the illumination section to light the plurality of light segments;an imaging section for capturing a plurality of luminance images of an inspection target;an inspection image generating section for obtaining a normal vector of a surface of the inspection target based on the three or more luminance images acquired by the imaging section and generating an inspection image based on the normal vector by a photometric stereo method;a reference image setting section for setting a reference image acquired from a non-defective product;an inspection region setting section for executing a pattern search on the inspection image by using the reference image to set a flaw inspection region in the inspection image; anda flaw inspecting section for inspecting a flaw in the flaw inspection region,wherein the determination section determines defectiveness/non-defectiveness of the inspection target based on a result of inspection by using the inspection image by the flaw inspection section.17. The inspection apparatus according to claim 16 , wherein the setting section sets flaw detecting conditions including a flaw segment size and a flaw ...

INSPECTION DEVICE

An inspection device includes a trigger detection unit that detects a trigger of visual confirmation work, and a camera control unit that controls a wearable camera worn by a worker to take an image when the trigger of the visual confirmation work is detected by the trigger detection unit.

Systems and methods to analyze an immunoassay test strip comb member

Systems and methods for analyzing test strip comb members having a plurality of fingers are disclosed. The systems and methods may analyze a test strip comb member to determine the presence of one more analytes on each of the plurality of fingers.

Inspection apparatus, inspection method, and program

To facilitate adjusting of a distance from an inspection target to an illumination section by providing a movable illumination section that is movable independently of the imaging section. An illumination apparatus has a plurality of LEDs arranged in a substantially annular form, a light diffusion member for diffusing light emitted from the plurality of LEDs, and a lighting control part for lighting the plurality of light sources in accordance with a predetermined lighting pattern when designated to start lighting. In particular, the illumination apparatus moves independently of a camera to adjust a distance to a workpiece.

Container inspection machine with man-machine interface for identifying and defining back lights

A container inspecting machine is provided with a man-machine screen interface (17) which can be switched (25,26) to one of a plurality of different back lights (28,30) or patterns so that an operator can define any one of these back lights (28,30) on the man-machine screen interface (17) as a desired back light (28,30) for inspecting a transparent container.

СПОСОБ И УСТРОЙСТВО ДЛЯ НАБЛЮДЕНИЯ И АНАЛИЗА ОПТИЧЕСКИХ ОСОБЕННОСТЕЙ СТЕКЛЯННЫХ СОСУДОВ

Изобретение относится к способу наблюдения и анализа оптических особенностей в стеклянных сосудах. Способ наблюдения и анализа оптических особенностей, отклоняющих свет, находящихся на поверхности или в стенке стеклянного сосуда, имеющего ось симметрии, включает: освещение сосуда при помощи источника рассеянного света, характеризующегося изменением свойства света в направлении изменения, использование устройства получения изображений, чувствительного к указанному свойству света и его изменению, и обработку снимка для анализа оптических особенностей. Причем сосуд освещают снаружи при помощи светящейся поверхности с осевой симметрией относительно вертикальной оси (Z). В случае сосудов с низким коэффициентом пропускания получают снимок участка сосуда при помощи устройства получения изображений, принимающего световые лучи, происходящие от участка осесимметричной светящейся поверхности, находящегося с той же стороны сосуда, что и точка наблюдения (Р), и отражаемые поверхностью сосуда в соответствии ...

Система захвата и позиционирования листа

Система захвата и позиционирования листа стекла и связанный с ней способ используются в системе контроля оптических характеристик листа стекла, встраиваемой в технологическую линию системы обработки листа стекла. Система захвата и позиционирования содержит внешнюю опорную раму и подвижную опорную раму для поддержания листа стекла, соединенную с внешней опорной рамой так, что опорная рама для поддержания листа стекла может быть избирательно позиционирована из своей первой ориентации, в результате чего лист стекла снимается с конвейера и удерживается на опорной раме, во вторую ориентацию, в результате чего лист стекла позиционируется для обработки с помощью системы контроля оптических характеристик. Система может содержать также идентификатор детали в виде листа стекла и программируемое устройство управления, содержащее логическое устройство для анализа данных захваченного изображения и идентификации листа стекла как одной из набора известных типов деталей и после этого закрепления и позиционирования ...

ИНСПЕКЦИОННАЯ МАШИНА

Изобретение относится к автоматической инспекционной машине для контейнеров и содержимого контейнеров, содержащих фармацевтический продукт, пищевой продукт или продукты другого рода. Заявленная автоматическая инспекционная машина (1) для контейнеров (2) и верхней поверхности оболочки содержащегося в них лиофилизированного продукта содержит последовательную горизонтальную конвейерную линию контейнеров (2), ориентированную с вертикальной осью (2a) через по меньшей мере одну инспекционную установку (3), содержащую средства освещения контейнеров (2), по меньшей мере одну телевизионную камеру (24) для получения изображений освещенных контейнеров (2), причем вышеупомянутые средства освещения содержат первое, второе и по меньшей мере третье осветительные устройства (21, 22, 23). При этом вышеупомянутое третье осветительное устройство (23) имеет ось проекции (23a), наклоненную снизу вверх, и находится на противоположной стороне от телевизионных камер (24) по отношению к конвейерной линии. Технический ...

СПОСОБ И УСТРОЙСТВО ДЛЯ НАБЛЮДЕНИЯ И АНАЛИЗА ОПТИЧЕСКИХ ОСОБЕННОСТЕЙ СТЕКЛЯННЫХ СОСУДОВ

СПОСОБ И УСТРОЙСТВО ДЛЯ НАЛОЖЕНИЯ ШУМОПОНИЖАЮЩИХ ЭЛЕМЕНТОВ НА ШИНЫ ДЛЯ КОЛЕС ТРАНСПОРТНЫХ СРЕДСТВ

Hochschnelles, hochauflösendes, dreidimensionales Solarzellenprüfsystem

Es wird ein optisches Prüfsystem und -verfahren bereitgestellt. Ein Werkstücktransportmittel bewegt ein Werkstück (12) auf durchlaufende Weise. Eine Beleuchtungseinrichtung (40) umfasst einen Lichtleiter und ist dazu ausgelegt, eine erste und eine zweite stroboskopisch getaktete Beleuchtungsfeldart bereitzustellen. Eine erste (3) und zweite (5) Anordnung von Kameras (2) sind angeordnet, um eine stereoskopische Abbildung des Werkstücks (12) bereitzustellen. Die erste Anordnung (3) von Kameras ist dazu ausgelegt, eine erste Vielzahl von Bildern des Werkstücks (12) mit dem ersten Beleuchtungsfeld und eine zweite Vielzahl von Bildern des Werkstücks (12) mit dem zweiten Beleuchtungsfeld zu erzeugen. Die zweite Anordnung (5) von Kameras ist dazu ausgelegt, eine dritte Vielzahl von Bildern des Werkstücks (12) mit dem ersten Beleuchtungsfeld und eine vierte Vielzahl von Bildern des Werkstücks (12) mit dem zweiten Beleuchtungsfeld zu erzeugen. Eine Verarbeitungsvorrichtung speichert zumindest einen ...

Method and device for optoelectronic quality control

In a method for the optoelectronic quality control of moving specimens (1) by comparison with an original (4) by means of a camera (3) in real time, the pixels (12.P; 12.O) which are to be scanned by the camera (3) are controlled by a control computer (7). An analog comparison is carried out of the signals taken by the camera (3) and signals which coincide because of identical pixels (12.P; 12.O) are erased. Only the non-erased, remaining signals - error signals - are digitised and further processed in an evaluation computer (20). ...

Verfahren zur Messung der durchschnittlichen Teilchengrösse in körnigem Material.

Appearance detection system for cylinder product

SORTING DIAMONDS OR OTHER MINERALS

METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR SORTING AND/OR CONFIRMING THE IDENTITY OF GEMS

High speed, flexible pretreatment process measurement scanner

VERFAHREN ZUM PRÜFEN EINES GEGENSTANDES AUS GLAS AUF EINSCHLÜSSE

FIBRE OPTIC INTERROGATION SYSTEM

IDENTIFYING GEMSTONES

A novel color based optical grading system with multi reflectance and multi-angle views

The present invention discloses a novel color based optical grading system with multi-reflectance and multi-angle views for grading objects of different external characteristics, and a novel color based optical grading method for grading objects based on different external characteristics. The system comprises of: multiple advanced optics units and at least one master controller. Each optics unit comprises of multiple programmable cameras, multiple spectral light sources, multiple adjustable mirrors/prisms, a mirror/prism adjustment assembly to ensure the enhanced surface analysis of the objects; at least one backlighting domes to provide uniform backlight for capturing objects in multi-reflection and multi-angle views and at least one image processing unit for processing images of each objects. The system is capable of not only identifying the type or color grade of individual object with enhanced accuracy, but is also efficient in analyzing different objects based on external characteristics ...

Apparatus and method for sorting gemstones

An apparatus for sorting gemstones from a batch of gemstones comprises one or more measurement locations, a conveyor comprising a plurality of discrete compartments for containing the gemstones, a delivery device configured to deliver individual gemstones from the batch of gemstones to individual compartments of the conveyor and a controller configured to synchronise a speed of the conveyor with an operation of the one or more measurement locations such that the measurements of the gemstones can be correlated with a location of the gemstones in their associated compartments. A method of sorting gemstones from a batch of gemstones is also disclosed.

DETECTING UNWANTED MATERIALS AMONG CULLET

DETECTING UNWANTED MATERIALS AMONG CULLET An apparatus and a method for inspecting cullet (2) for the presence of unwanted materials among the pieces of glass. A light source such as a laser (11) directs light onto the cullet (2). At least one array of at least two light detectors (8) is positioned to delete reflected light from the cullet (2). The detctors (8) differentiate between non-uniformly scattered light from the cullet (2) and generally uniformly scattered light from the debris. Signalling means are provided to signal the differentiation thereby to indicate the presence of debris in the cullet (2) under inspection. When cullet (2) is present on a moving cullet belt (1), light from the light source (8) is intermittently scanned over the cullet (2) in a raster-type scan. A multi-faceted rotatable mirror (12) may be employed intermittently to reflect light onto the cullet (2).

CONVEYORS INCLUDING SENSORS FOR DETECTING ERROR CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH MOVING PRODUCTS

In some embodiments, methods and systems are provided that include interconnected conveyors including multiple sensors configured to detect identifying characteristics and physical characteristics of the products traveling on the conveyors. The product-associated information that is detected by the sensors is analyzed relative to predefined product-associated identifying characteristics and physical characteristics stored in a database, and an error signal is generated if the actual, sensor-obtained product identifying characteristics and/or physical characteristics, do not correspond to the predefined, database-stored product identifying characteristics and/or physical characteristics.

AN APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING SNAPSHOT ACTION THERMAL INFRARED IMAGING WITHIN AUTOMATED PROCESS CONTROL ARTICLE INSPECTION APPLICATIONS

This application relates to an apparatus and method for providing snapshot action thermal infrared imaging within automated process control article inspection applications. More specifically, it pertains to the use of snapshot mode lead salt area-array imaging sensors (20) as the imaging front-end in high-speed machine vision inspection systems (12). the relatively low-cost, good measurement sensitivity at temperatures consistent with thermo-electric cooling means, and the ability to be operated in snapshot mode enables lead salt-based image acquisition sensors (20) to be used in a variety of automated process control and article inspection applications.

NON-CONTACT EGG IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING EGG VIABILITY, AND ASSOCIATED METHOD

An egg identification system (100) for determining viability of an avian egg (1) is provided. Such a system (100) includes an emitter assembly (200) configured to emit electromagnetic radiation toward an egg (1). A detector assembly (300) is axially aligned with the emitter assembly (200) to detect electromagnetic radiation transmitted through the egg (1). The detector assembly (300) is spaced-apart from the egg (1) during operation thereof such that the detector assembly (300) does not contact the egg (1). The detected electromagnetic radiation is used to generate an output signal. The output signal is processed to determine whether there exists a periodic variation or an aperiodic perturbation in an intensity of the electromagnetic radiation transmitted through the egg (1) corresponding to action of a heart, such as heartbeat, or embryo movement, wherein the existence of the periodic variation or aperiodic perturbation indicates that the egg (1) is viable. An associated method is also ...

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING SORTED STOPPER ELEMENTS

La présente invention concerne un dispositif (2) de fourniture d'éléments de bouchage (1), triés pour alimenter un poste de travail en aval, comprenant un moyen d'élévation (3); et en aval un moyen de référencement (5) à l'unité desdits éléments de bouchage (1); en sortie dudit moyen de référencement (5), un convoyeur (6) pour amener les éléments (1) référencés vers ledit poste de travail; un moyen de vision (7) pour contrôler la conformité desdits éléments (1) au niveau d'une zone de contrôle s'étendant au niveau du moyen de référencement (5) et/ou du convoyeur (6); situé en aval dudit moyen de vision (7), un moyen d1 expulsion des éléments (1) non conformes; caractérisé par le fait qu1 au moins la zone de contrôle comprend au moins deux sections (8,9) successives comportant chacune une couleur distincte. L'invention concerne aussi un procédé correspondant.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SET UP OF PRODUCTION LINE INSPECTION

The invention provides an automatic inspection process for detecting visible defects on a manufactured item. The process includes a set up mode in which images of same-type defect free items, but not images of same-type defected items, are obtained, and an inspection mode in which images of both same-type defect free items and same-type defected items, are obtained and defects are detected. Images of the same-type defect free items are analyzed and based on the analysis the process switches to the inspection mode.

SURFACE INSPECTION APPARATUS

OPTICAL MONITORING DEVICE

The invention proposes an optical monitoring device for monitoring the activity of a tool in a monitoring area, having at least one camera (1). In order to improve th e capture of the lateral regions of a three-dimensional object in the monitoring area (20 ), at least one mirror (2) is provided that is concavely bent in at least one partial region and that is disposed in the optical path between the monitoring area (20) and the camera (1).

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR STABILIZING DRY-BASED DENSITY OF WOOD CHIPS TO BE FED TO A CHIP REFINING PROCESS

A method and system for stabilizing dry-based density of wood chips from several sources feeding a chip processing stage upstream of a chip refining process, perform on-line estimation of a set of wood chip properties characterizing the wood chips, including light reflection-related property, moisture content and dry-based density, which are used by a reference model capable of comparing the estimated dry-based density with a predetermined target to produce error data, and selectively modifying discharge rate set points of one or more of the wood chip sources to minimize the error data within fluctuation limits around the target. The discharge rate of the wood chip sources is controlled in accordance with the set points to substantially stabilize the dry-based density of the wood chips.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR STABILIZING DRY-BASED DENSITY OF WOOD CHIPS TO BE FED TO A CHIP REFINING PROCESS

A method and system for stabilizing dry-based density of wood chips from several sources feeding a chip processing stage upstream of a chip refining process, perform on-line estimation of a set of wood chip properties characterizing the wood chips, including light reflection-related property, moisture content and dry-based density, which are used by a reference model capable of comparing the estimated dry-based density with a predetermined target to produce error data, and selectively modifying discharge rate set points of one or more of the wood chip sources to minimize the error data within fluctuation limits around the target. The discharge rate of the wood chip sources is controlled in accordance with the set points to substantially stabilize the dry-based density of the wood chips.

METHOD OF MEASURING AVERAGE PARTICLE SIZE OF GRANULAR MATERIAL

Full-automatic online aviation aluminum classification recycling system based on LIBS technology

Automatic antibiotic bottle cap detection equipment

Three-axis mechanical arm type small potted plant detection platform

System and process of visual examination of pharmaceutical tablets

Frame of assembly for inspecting devices without contact of moulded objects, in particular out of glass, àhaute temperature

Des bouteilles en verre à haute température se déplaçant sur un tapis convoyeur 3 entraîné par rapport à un bâti 19 d'inclinaison réglable dans un même plan vertical. Le châssis de montage est placé à cheval au-dessus du tapis 3. Il comprend deux plans de référence parallèles 20 et 21 et constitue une structure indéformable qui n'est pas reliée au bâti 19 du convoyeur 3 et est supportée sur le sol par l'intermédiaire de trois vérins 15a, 15b, 15c à déplacements commandés. Trois sources lumineuses 26, 30 émettent des rayons lumineux dont les caractéristiques dépendent de l'inclinaison du tapis convoyeur 3. Elles coopèrent avec des réseaux linéaires de photodiodes 38, 48 capables d'émettre un signal électrique de commande desdits vérins 15a, 15b, 15c afin de maintenir en permanence les plans de référence précités du châssis parallèles au plan du tapis convoyeur 3 quelle que soit son inclinaison. Une pluralité de dispositifs de contrôle sans contact peut être montée sur le châssis.

ILLUMINATION DEVICE AND ILLUMINATION METHOD FOR EXTERNAL QUALITY INSPECTION APPARATUS FOR AGRICULTURAL PRODUCE

This illumination device (100) is used in an external quality inspection apparatus for agricultural produce, the apparatus emitting light onto each item of agricultural produce (14) transported in one direction, and inspecting the external quality of the agricultural produce on the basis of light reflected from the agricultural produce. This illumination device (100) comprises an upper illumination unit (110) for emitting light onto the agricultural produce from above the agricultural produce (14), four lateral illumination units (121-124) for emitting light onto the agricultural produce from the side of the agricultural produce, and a control device for controlling the amount of light emitted from the upper illumination unit and the lateral illumination units. The control device (130) controls the emission time of the lateral illumination units (121-124) such that the illuminance at a first point falls within a range ±10% of the illuminance at a second point. At the first point, light ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO ANALYZE AN IMMUNOASSAY TEST STRIP COMB MEMBER

Systems and methods for analyzing test strip comb members having a plurality of fingers are disclosed. The systems and methods may analyze a test strip comb member to determine the presence of one more analytes on each of the plurality of fingers.

INSPECTION SYSTEM

An inspection system is configured for use with a conveyer apparatus including carrier bars. Each carrier bar conveys pellet-shaped articles along a predetermined path. The inspection system includes at least one camera unit for sensing a predetermined characteristic of the pellet-shaped articles, a removal unit, and a controller. The removal unit, downstream from the at least one camera unit, removes selected pellet-shaped article(s) from the carrier bar(s) depending on whether the characteristic is sensed by the at least one camera unit. The controller is in communication with the at least one camera unit and the removal unit. The controller provides a signal to the removal unit in accordance with the sensed characteristic. The removal unit includes a rotatable ejection drum having extended vacuum nozzles along its length, equal to the number of articles conveyed in each earner bar. Each vacuum nozzle selectively removes article(s) from the earner bar(s) by suction.

Sizing defect detection system and sizing defect detection method

A light emission part projects a laser light toward an edge portion of a formation. The laser light extends in a direction intersecting a conveyance direction of a forming belt. A light receiving part is opposed to the light emission part and located on the opposite side of the formation. The laser light passes through an area above an upper surface of the formation at least partially and is partially blocked by rising of the edge portion of the formation. A control device determines occurrence of the glue-joint failure on the basis of whether the quantity of light received by the light receiving part is reduced by at least a predetermined value or a predetermined rate, and provides or gives a visual display or a warning of the occurrence of glue-joint failure.

TWO AXIS VARIABLE CLAMP ASSEMBLY

A clamp assembly includes a single adjustment mechanism that allows for adjustment of an object supported on the clamp assembly along two axes. The adjustment mechanism connects to a bracket and a support rod on which the object is mounted to lock a desired position of the object in place when desired and to allow for adjustment of that position, when desired.

Apparatus, system and method for detecting matter

An apparatus for detecting matter, the apparatus including: a first light source adapted to emit a first light beam; a second light source adapted to emit a second light beam, wherein the apparatus is arranged such that the first and second light beams converge towards a scanning element; the scanning element adapted to redirect the converging first and second light beams towards the matter to be detected; and a detector adapted to receive light reflected by the matter via the scanning element. Also, a system and method of detecting matter.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REMOVING DEFECTIVE SEEDS AND PLANTS IN A GROW POD

A system for removing seeds includes a track, one or more carts moveably disposed on the track, one or more sensors, a removing device, and a controller. The controller includes one or more processors, one or more memory modules, and machine readable instructions stored in the one or more memory modules that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the controller to determine a location of one or more of one or more contaminated seeds and one or more contaminated plants on the one or more carts based on information received from the one or more sensors and instruct the removing device to remove one or more of the one or more contaminated seeds and the one or more contaminated plants based on the location.

NON-DESTRUCTIVE MEASUREMENT UNIT OF THE GAS CONCENTRATION IN SEALED FLEXIBLE CONTAINERS AND AUTOMATIC FILLING AND/OR PACKAGING LINE USING SUCH A UNIT

A non-destructive measurement unit of gas concentration in sealed containers and an automatic filling and/or packaging line using such a unit are provided. The flexible containers are at least partially optically transparent, and the measurement unit comprises a light source for emitting a light beam at a wavelength tunable with an absorption wavelength of a gas contained in the sealed flexible container. The light source directs the light beam toward at least one inspection area, and a detector detects at least a portion of the beam after the beam passes through the inspection area and outputs data representative of an absorption spectrum of the gas. Means for generating a head space of predefined width into the sealed flexible container is adapted to advance the sealed flexible container by an advancement path which crosses the inspection zone and to maintain the predefined width of the head space during the advancement. 110103030: A non-destructive measurement unit ( , ′) of gas concentration in sealed flexible containers ( , ′) at least partially made{'b': 11', '30', '30', '11', '20, 'at least one light source () for emitting a light beam at a wavelength tunable with an absorption wavelength of a gas contained in the sealed flexible container (, ′), the at least one light source () being positioned in such a way as to direct the light beam towards at least one inspection area ();'}{'b': 12', '11', '20', '20, 'at least one detector () positioned in such a way as to detect at least a portion of the beam emitted by the light source () once passed through the inspection zone () and output data representative of an absorption spectrum of said gas resulting from the passage of the light beam through the inspection zone (); and'}{'b': 50', '50', '32', '30', '30, 'means (, ′) for generating a head space () having predetermined width in the sealed flexible container (, ′);'}{'b': 50', '50', '32', '51', '51', '30', '30', '52', '52', '30', '30', '20', '50', '50', '32', '30 ...

Appearance inspection device

An appearance inspection device, which inspects an appearance of test objects, includes a first and second conveying means 21 and 22a conveying the test objects, a back/front reversal means 23 turning over the front and back surfaces of the test objects being conveyed by the first conveying means 21 and supplying the test objects to the second conveying means 22a, and a plurality of image-pickup means 30b and 30c capturing images of each test object from upper oblique directions while the test objects are conveyed by the first and second conveying means 21 and 22a. The appearance inspection device also includes a defect detection means detecting the presence of defects in the test objects based on image data captured by the image-pickup means 30b and 30c. This appearance inspection device makes it possible to reliably and readily inspect an entire appearance of the test objects.

Apparatus and method for checking the quality of preforms each having a body made of plastics material

AN APPARATUS FOR COLOUR CONTROL OF OBJECTS

СПОСОБЫ, УСТРОЙСТВО И ЛИНИЯ ВИЗУАЛЬНОГО КОНТРОЛЯ ПЛОСКОСТНОСТИ ПОВЕРХНОСТИ КОЛЬЦА ЕМКОСТИ

Изобретение относится к области контроля емкостей, в частности стеклянных емкостей, и, в частности, к контролю плоскостности поверхности кольца таких емкостей. Заявлен способ визуального контроля плоскостности поверхности кольца емкости, в котором освещают поверхность кольца при помощи периферического падающего светового пучка, содержащего радиальные световые лучи, с зеркальным отражением от поверхности кольца, при помощи оптической системы; формируют плоское изображение поверхности кольца емкости на датчике с оптической геометрической трансформацией, которая преобразует реальную разность высоты (dZ) в радиальное смещение (dR) на изображении, и радиальное смещение (dR) изображения, соответствующее унитарной реальной разности высоты (dZ), превышает радиальное смещение изображения, соответствующее реальному радиальному смещению этого же размера. Объектами изобретения являются также устройство и установка, на которых осуществляют такой способ. Технический результат – упрощение конструкции, ...

АГРЕГАТ МАНИПУЛИРОВАНИЯ ФРУКТОВЫМИ И ОВОЩНЫМИ ПРОДУКТАМИ

СПОСОБ И УСТРОЙСТВО ОПРЕДЕЛЕНИЯ ИЗМЕРИТЕЛЬНОГО ПАРАМЕТРА/ОВ/ ОБЪЕКТА

Предлагаются способ и устройство для определения любого из множества параметров: формы, площади, химического состава, диаметра, цвета, количества, толщины, ширины, длины, коэффициента поглощения, коэффициента отражения, коэффициента пропускания, диэлектрической постоянной, профиля романовского рассеяния, флуоресценции, поверхностного натяжения, шероховатости, профиля, плотности, положения и ориентации. Также использование нескольких знергетических пучков в качестве источника энергии: пучки заряженных и нейтральных частиц, гамма-, рентгеновские, микро-, оптические и акустические волны. Предлагаемое устройство определяет среднее значение и стандартное отклонение множества диаметров шерстяных волокон и содержит Не-Nе-лазер 101 и отверстие 102 малого диаметра, обеспечивающее расширяющийся лазерный пучок, который проходит через ячейку 105. Расщепитель 103 пучка расположен по отношению к отверстию 102 малого диаметра и лазеру 101 для направления части лазерного пучка к эталонному детектору 109 ...

АВТОМАТИЧЕСКАЯ СИСТЕМА СОРТИРОВКИ ОТХОДОВ АВИАЦИОННОГО АЛЮМИНИЯ НА ОСНОВЕ ТЕХНОЛОГИИ ЛАЗЕРНО-ИСКРОВОЙ ЭМИССИОННОЙ СПЕКТРОСКОПИИ

Изобретение относится к области технологии сортировки и восстановления авиационных алюминиевых сплавов на основе технологии лазерно-искровой эмиссионной спектроскопии (ЛИЭС). Полностью автоматическая система сортировки и восстановления в оперативном режиме авиационного алюминия на основе технологии ЛИЭС включает шесть частей: блок (1) подачи образцов, блок (2) обработки поверхности, блок (3) позиционирования материала, блок (4) определения и анализа с помощью ЛИЭС, блок (5) транспортировки и блок (6) сортировки и восстановления. Система может быть использована для выполнения в оперативном режиме автоматического определения, сортировки и восстановления авиационного алюминия и не имеет требований к состоянию поверхности восстановленных образцов авиационного алюминия. 8 з.п. ф-лы, 2 ил.

АППАРАТ ДЛЯ СОРТИРОВКИ ДРАГОЦЕННЫХ КАМНЕЙ

Изобретение относится к ювелирной промышленности, а именно к аппаратам для сортировки драгоценных камней и способам работы таких аппаратов. Предложенный аппарат для сортировки драгоценных камней из партии драгоценных камней содержит одно или более мест измерений, конвейер, содержащий множество дискретных отделений для размещения драгоценных камней, подающее устройство, сконфигурированное для подачи индивидуальных драгоценных камней из партии драгоценных камней к индивидуальным отделениям конвейера, и контроллер, сконфигурированный с возможностью синхронизации скорости конвейера с функционированием одного или более мест измерений так, что измерения драгоценных камней могут быть скоррелированы с положениями указанных камней в ассоциируемых с ними отделениях. Раскрыт также способ сортировки драгоценных камней из партии драгоценных камней. Технический результат – повышение качества и точности сортировки драгоценных камней. 2 н. и 32 з.п. ф-лы, 15 ил.

DETEKTION VON STRAHLUNG IN EINEM SCHMALEN FREQUENZBAND UND PRUEFUNG VON OBJEKTEN ODER GEBIETEN.

Verfahren und Vorrichtung zum Erfassen eines geometrischen Merkmals von Formteilen

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren und eine Vorrichtung zum Erfassen eines geometrischen Merkmals von übereinstimmenden Formteilen in einem optischen Inspektionssystem.Um unabhängig von der Dauer des Transports der aus einem Formwerkzeug einer Gießmaschine entformten Formteile zu dem Inspektionssystem zuverlässig geometrische Merkmale der Formteile zu bestimmen, berücksichtigt die Erfindung die unterschiedlichen Stadien der Abkühlung aufgrund der unterschiedlich langen Transportdauer der einzelnen entformten Formteile zu dem Inspektionssystem, indem in dem Inspektionssystem nicht nur das mindestens eine geometrische Merkmal erfasst, sondern außerdem die Temperatur jedes Formteils berührungslos gemessen wird, während die Formteile das Inspektionssystem durchlaufen. Die erfassten geometrischen Merkmale werden mit Hilfe einer Kalibrierfunktion unter Berücksichtigung der gemessenen Temperaturen korrigiert.

VERFAHREN UND VORRICHTUNG ZUR ECHTZEIT-FLUORESZENZBESTIMMUNG VON SPURENELEMENTEN

Arrangement for the continuous moisture measurement of wood particles

The invention relates to an arrangement for the continuous moisture measurement of wood particles by the infrared reflection measuring principle. It can be used with preference in the moisture determination of particles which during their conveyance are taken along walls. The aim is to measure also wood particles of which the thermal radiation exceeds a limit temperature specific to the measuring instrument and/or of which the concurrent phase contains constituents which lead to condensation during the measurement. The object is to carry out the measurement without interruption of the particle stream, to ensure an adequate, constant structure at the surface to be measured of the material undergoing measurement and to eliminate disturbing influences on the measuring instrument. This object is achieved by an inspection window being arranged on one housing wall of a conveyor. Outside the conveyor, this inspection window is assigned the measuring head of the infrared measuring instrument at ...

Conveying apparatus with an imaging backing surface

A conveying apparatus for conveying an object, the object having at least a non-opaque portion, including a light source, an optical detector and a backing measurement apparatus, the light source for illuminating the object, the optical detector for acquiring information at least relating to at least one chromatic characteristic of the non-opaque portion, the backing measurement apparatus including a backing material, a backing support and a plurality of rollers, the backing material exhibiting at least one of determined chromatic characteristics and determined optical characteristics, the backing support for supporting the backing material, the plurality of rollers for rolling the backing material over the backing support, wherein light emitted by the light source optically interacts with the backing material consistently through the non-opaque portion.

Systems and methods to analyze an immunoassay test strip comb member

Systems and methods for analyzing test strip comb members having a plurality of fingers are disclosed. The systems and methods may analyze a test strip comb member to determine the presence of one more analytes on each of the plurality of fingers.

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING SORTED STOPPER ELEMENTS

The invention relates to a device for providing stopper elements that are sorted in order to feed a downstream workstation. The devices comprising a lifting means; a means or referencing said stopper elements one by one, located downstream from the lifting means; a conveyor for bringing the referenced elements to said workstation, positioned at the outlet of said referencing means; a vision means for verifying the conformance of said elements in an inspection zone extending at the level of the referencing means and/or of the conveyor; and a means for expelling those elements that do not conform located downstream of said vision means. The inspection zone comprises at least two successive sections each including a distinct color. The invention also relates to a corresponding method. 121. A device () for providing stopper elements () that are sorted in order to feed a downstream workstation , comprising:{'b': 3', '1, 'a lifting means () for sorting said elements () in accordance with their orientation;'}{'b': 3', '5', '1, 'downstream of said lifting means () a means () for referencing said stopper elements () one by one in a regular flow;'}{'b': 5', '6', '1, 'at the outlet of said referencing means () a conveyor () for bringing the referenced elements () one by one to said workstation;'}{'b': 7', '1', '2', '5', '6, 'a vision means () for verifying the conformance of said elements () when they arrive in an inspection zone of said device (), said inspection zone being located at the referencing means () and/or the conveyor (); and'}{'b': 7', '1, 'located downstream of said vision means () a means for expelling those elements () that do not conform;'}wherein at least:{'b': 8', '9, 'the inspection zone comprises at least two successive sections (, ) each including a distinct color.'}22789. The provider device () as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising a means for moving said vision means () from a position facing one of said sections () to a position facing the other ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MEASURING REFLECTED OPTICAL DISTORTION IN CONTOURED GLASS SHEETS

A method for measuring optical distortion in a contoured glass sheet includes the steps of conveying the glass sheet in a first direction, employing at least one display to project a preselected multi-phase non-repeating contrasting pattern, and employing at least one camera, and uniquely pairing each one of the cameras one of the displays. The method may also include controlling each of the cameras to acquire the desired images, analyzing and combining the data acquired by the cameras to construct a definition of the surface of the glass sheet, and performing one or more optical processing operations on the surface data to analyze the optical characteristics of the glass sheet. 1. A method for measuring the optical characteristics of a curved glass sheet , the glass sheet having a first dimension and a second dimension , wherein the glass sheet is curved at least about one or more axes of curvature which are generally parallel to the first dimension , the method including at least the steps of:conveying the glass sheet in a first direction generally parallel to the first dimension of the glass sheet;projecting a preselected contrasting pattern from each of at least two displays onto the surface of the glass sheetproviding at least two cameras, each one of the cameras being uniquely paired with one of the displays, wherein each display and camera pair are mounted in a spaced-apart relationship a known distance and angle from the surface of the glass sheet for detecting the reflected image of the pattern projected on the surface of the glass sheet from its associated display, and wherein each of the display and camera pairs are spaced apart from each other at least in a second direction across the second dimension of the glass sheet such that each camera detects the reflected image of the pattern projected on the surface of the glass sheet from only its associated display, and wherein the patterns detected by the cameras together cover the entire surface in the ...

MENTHOL DETECTION ON TOBACCO

A method for detecting mentholated tobacco, comprising irradiating tobacco containing menthol and a fluorescent taggant with radiation and observing the tobacco for fluorescence from the taggant. A system and method for detecting and separating mentholated tobacco from non-mentholated tobacco within a product stream is also provided. 122.-. (canceled)23. A system for detecting and separating mentholated tobacco from non-mentholated tobacco within a product stream , the system comprising:a conveyor configured to transport a product stream;a first light source configured to supply infrared light to the product stream;a first detector configured to detect reflected infrared light from the product stream and generate a first signal based on the detected reflected infrared light; anda controller configured to determine that the product stream contains mentholated tobacco based on the first signal.24. The system of claim 23 , wherein the conveyor is a vibrating conveyor.25. The system of claim 23 , wherein the conveyor is an inclined conveyor.26. The system of claim 23 , wherein the first light source is a high intensity infrared light source.27. The system of claim 23 , wherein the first detector is a high speed near-infrared (NIR) spectrometer sensor.28. The system of claim 23 , further comprising:a second light source configured to supply light to the product stream;a second detector configured to detect reflected light from the product stream and generate a second signal based on the detected reflected light; and whereinthe controller is configured to determine that the product stream contains non-tobacco related material based on the second signal.29. The system of claim 28 , further comprising:a first mirror positioned to deflect the infrared light from the first light source onto the product stream; anda second mirror positioned to deflect the light from the second light source onto the product stream.30. The system of claim 28 , further comprising:a first mirror ...

INSPECTION SYSTEM

An inspection system is configured for use with a conveyer apparatus including carrier bars. Each carrier bar conveys pellet-shaped articles along a predetermined path. The inspection system includes at least one camera unit for sensing a predetermined characteristic of the pellet-shaped articles, a removal unit, and a controller. The removal unit, downstream from the at least one camera unit, removes selected pellet-shaped article(s) from the carrier bar(s) depending on whether the characteristic is sensed by the at least one camera unit. The controller is in communication with the at least one camera unit and the removal unit. The controller provides a signal to the removal unit in accordance with the sensed characteristic. The removal unit includes a rotatable ejection drum having extended vacuum nozzles along its length, equal to the number of articles conveyed in each carrier bar. Each vacuum nozzle selectively removes article(s) from the carrier bar(s) by suction. 1. An inspection system , comprising:a conveyor to convey a plurality of pellet-shaped articles along a path;at least one camera oriented towards the conveyor so as to image the pellet-shaped articles being conveyed along the path;a removal unit, downstream from the at least one camera; and process data received from the at least one camera to determine whether the pellet-shaped articles being imaged have a predetermined characteristic;', 'responsive to a determination that a given one of the pellet-shaped articles has the predetermined characteristic, control the removal unit to remove the given one of the pellet-shaped articles that has the predetermined characteristic; and', 'generate, for output to a display device, operably connected to the inspection system, at least one display section including video output from the at least one camera, as the pellet-shaped articles are being imaged and as the data received from the at least one camera is being processed., 'processing resources, including at ...

Material classification using brdf slices

Material classification using illumination by spectral light from multiple different incident angles, coupled with measurement of light reflected from the illuminated object of unknown material, wherein the incident angle and/or spectral content of each light source is selected based on a mathematical clustering analysis of training data, so as to select a subset of only a few light sources from a superset of many light sources.

RECONFIGURABLE INTEGRATED CIRCUITS FOR ADJUSTING CELL SORTING CLASSIFICATION

Aspects of the present disclosure include reconfigurable integrated circuits for characterizing particles of a sample in a flow stream. Reconfigurable integrated circuits according to certain embodiments are programmed to calculate parameters of a particle in a flow stream from detected light; compare the calculated parameters of the particle with parameters of one or more particle classifications; classify the particle based on the comparison between the parameters of the particle classifications and the calculated parameters of the particle; and adjust one or more parameters of the particle classifications based on the calculated parameters of the particle. Methods for characterizing particles in a flow stream with the subject integrated circuits are also described. Systems and integrated circuit devices programmed for practicing the subject methods, such as on a flow cytometer, are also provided. 1. A reconfigurable integrated circuit programmed to:calculate parameters of a particle in a flow stream from detected light;compare the calculated parameters of the particle with parameters of one or more particle classifications;classify the particle based on the comparison between the parameters of the particle classifications and the calculated parameters of the particle; andadjust one or more parameters of the particle classifications based on the calculated parameters of the particle.2. The reconfigurable integrated circuit according to claim 1 , wherein the particle classifications comprise a sort classification.3. The reconfigurable integrated circuit according to any one of - claim 1 , wherein classifying the particle comprises generating a particle sort decision.4. The reconfigurable integrated circuit according to claim 3 , wherein the integrated circuit is programmed to generate the particle sorting decision based on a threshold between the calculated parameters of the particle and the parameters of the particle classifications.5. The reconfigurable ...

A DETECTION SYSTEM FOR DETECTING AND DETERMINING AN INTEGRITY OF PHARMACEUTICAL/PARAPHARMACEUTICAL ARTICLES

A detection system (S) for detecting and determining an integrity of pharmaceutical/parapharmaceutical articles includes a conveyor device (), for conveying and advancing articles having an advancement section () along which the articles are advanced on a flat plane, in a line one after another in an advancement direction (A). The system (S) has a processor (E) for data processing; at least one colour matrix video camera () for acquiring images of the articles advancing along the advancement section, a laser projector (P) able to emit and project a laser beam (L) so that the laser beam (L) crosses the advancement section () and a high-speed linear three-dimensional video camera () for acquiring the images of the cut profiles of the articles crossing the laser beam. 1. A detection system for detecting and determining an integrity of pharmaceutical/parapharmaceutical articles , comprising:a conveyor device, for conveying and advancing articles, the conveyor device comprising an advancement section in which the articles are advanced on a flat plane, in a line one after another in an advancement direction;a processor for data processing;at least a colour matrix video camera connected to the processor and arranged above the advancement section of the conveyor device and arranged so that the lens thereof is facing towards the advancement section so that the visual field thereof for capturing the images is at the advancement section, along which the articles are advanced in a line, one after another, so that the colour matrix video camera can capture a series of images of an outline and a colour of each article, during the advancement thereof along the advancement section across the visual field of the colour matrix video camera, the processor being programmed to receive the images captured by the colour matrix video camera and to process the images so as to supply, for each article, a first datum relative to the effective shape of the outline and colour of the article;a ...

OPTICAL INSPECTION DEVICE

An optical inspection apparatus includes a light radiation unit configured to radiate light to an article , a light detection unit configured to detect transmitted light of the light radiated to the article , and a support unit configured to support the light radiation unit and the light detection unit in a cantilever manner. An inspection region of the article by the light is exposed to an ambient atmosphere. 1. An optical inspection apparatus comprising:a light radiation unit configured to radiate near infrared light to an article;a light detection unit configured to detect transmitted light of the near infrared light radiated to the article; anda support unit configured to support the light radiation unit and the light detection unit in a cantilever manner,wherein an inspection region of the article by the near infrared light is exposed to an ambient atmosphere.2. The optical inspection apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the light detection unit is disposed upward relative to the light radiation unit.3. The optical inspection apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the light radiation unit and the light detection unit are vertically movable integrally with the support unit.4. The optical inspection apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein a position of the light detection unit is adjustable relative to that of the light radiation unit.5. The optical inspection apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the light radiation unit and the light detection unit are rotatable integrally with the support unit.6. The optical inspection apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein the light radiation unit and the light detection unit are rotatable integrally with the support unit about a position as a center claim 5 , the position being at a shorter distance from the light radiation unit than a distance from the light detection unit.7. The optical inspection apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the support unit includes:a pole unit;a first beam unit fixed to the pole ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR INSPECTING BODIES HAVING A PLURALITY OF CHANNELS

An inspection apparatus and methods for inspecting a body having a structure of walls defining a plurality of channels, such as a honeycomb structure. An inspection apparatus may include a translucent conveyor belt and a light source oriented to direct light onto the backlight surface. The light source and the belt are arranged to convey the body while directing diffuse light into the body, whereby inspection of the inner walls of the structure may be facilitated. 1. An inspection apparatus for inspecting a body comprising a structure comprised of walls extending in a longitudinal direction between a first end and a second end , the walls defining a plurality of longitudinal channels extending between first and second faces disposed at the first and second ends , respectively , the apparatus comprising:a translucent conveyor belt comprising a backlight surface and an opposing end supporting surface; anda light source oriented to direct light onto the backlight surface;wherein the light source and the belt are arranged to convey the body while directing diffuse light into the body.2. The apparatus of further comprising a belt drive to control movement of the belt;3. The apparatus of further comprising a mirror oriented to reflect an internally lighted image of a non-supported end of the body.4. The apparatus of further comprising a second mirror to further reflect the internally lighted image of the non-supported end of the body.5. The apparatus of wherein the structure is a honeycomb structure.6. The apparatus of wherein the structure is comprised of a porous material.7. The apparatus of wherein the structure is comprised of a porous ceramic material.8. A method of inspecting a body comprising a structure comprised of walls extending in a longitudinal direction between a first end and a second end claim 1 , the walls defining a plurality of longitudinal channels extending between first and second faces disposed at the first and second ends claim 1 , respectively ...

Inspection Apparatus, Inspection Method, And Program

To facilitate adjusting of a distance from an inspection target to an illumination section by providing a movable illumination section that is movable independently of the imaging section. An illumination apparatus has a plurality of LEDs arranged in a substantially annular form, a light diffusion member for diffusing light emitted from the plurality of LEDs, and a lighting control part for lighting the plurality of light sources in accordance with a predetermined lighting pattern when designated to start lighting. In particular, the illumination apparatus moves independently of a camera to adjust a distance to a workpiece. 115-. (canceled)16. An inspection apparatus comprising:an imaging section for capturing an image of an inspection target;an illumination section which has a plurality of light segments arranged in a substantially annular form to illuminate the inspection target from three or more illumination directions, a storage part to store a lighting data including order information indicating order of lighting the light segments and interval information indicating a lighting interval of the plurality of light segments, and a lighting control part for lighting the plurality of light segments in accordance with the order information and the interval information stored in the storage part when designated to start lighting, and which moves independently of the imaging section to adjust a distance to the inspection target;an inspection image generating section for synthesizing a plurality of luminance images, acquired by the imaging section, by a photometric stereo method to generate an inspection image having a plurality of pixel values in accordance with inclination or a reflectance of a surface of the inspection target; anda determination section for determining defectiveness/non-defectiveness of the inspection target by using the inspection image.17. The inspection apparatus according to claim 16 , wherein the illumination section has a first substrate on ...

A METHOD AND DEVICE FOR SCANNING OF OBJECTS USING A COMBINATION OF SPECTRAL RANGES WITHIN VISION, NEAR INFRARED LIGHT AND X-RAYS

The method and equipment described are for coherent scanning, that is where sections of the same object are comparable in the images, of objects such as food stuff based on scanning with the utilization of electromagnetic waves from at least two ranges within vision (visible light), NIR (near infrared light) and X-rays. The method consist of determination an object's reflection in the NIR and/or vision ranges associated with the same object's transmission in the X-ray range to obtain an even higher degree of details concerning the structure of the object by determining its surface texture together with description of its inner structure and/or composition. The equipment comprises a cabinet (), a computer (), a camera (), an X-ray source (), a light source (), and an X-ray detector (). An additional start sensor () registers the presence of objects on the conveyor belt () and the scanning is triggered. 1. An equipment for scanning and analyzing materials , where the equipment comprises:at least two sources configured to emit electromagnetic waves in different ranges, wherein the different ranges are selected from a group consisting of: a first range from 950 nm to 700 nm, a second range from 700 nm to 350 nm, and a third range from 100 pm to 7 pm; wherein at least one of the sources is configured to emit the electromagnetic waves within at least a part of the third range; andat least one sensor configured to receive the electromagnetic waves within part of or an entirety of at least one of the first range, the second range, or the third range; wherein at least one of the sensors is configured to receive the electromagnetic waves within at least a part of the third range.2. The equipment according to claim 1 , wherein a first subset of one or more of the at least two sources are configured to emit the electromagnetic waves with wavelengths in the first range or the second range claim 1 , and a first set of one or more of the at least one sensor is configured to ...

Inspection device and ptp packaging machine

An inspection device is used in manufacture of a PTP sheet that comprises a container film including a pocket portion in which a content is placed and a cover film closing the pocket portion. The inspection device includes: an illumination device that emits near infrared light; a light shield that is placed between the illumination device and the container film and prevents the near infrared light from entering the container film; a through hole in the light shield that allows the near infrared light to pass through; a spectroscope that disperses reflected light from the content; an imaging device that images an optical spectrum of the reflected light and obtains spectroscopic image data; and a controller that: obtains spectral data of the content based on the spectroscopic image data; and performs a predetermined inspection with regard to the content based on the spectral data of the content.

FINE RATIO MEASURING DEVICE, FINE RATIO MEASURING SYSTEM, AND BLAST FURNACE OPERATING METHOD

A fine ratio measuring device that measures a ratio of fines adhering to the surface of a material in the form of lumps, the fine ratio measuring device includes: an illumination unit that illuminates the material in the form of lumps; a spectrometer that performs spectral analysis on light reflected from the material in the form of lumps to measure spectral reflectance; and an arithmetic device that extracts at least one feature quantity from the spectral reflectance measured by the spectrometer and computes the fine ratio from the extracted at least one feature quantity. 16.-. (canceled)7. A fine ratio measuring device that measures a ratio of fines adhering to the surface of a material in the form of lumps , the fine ratio measuring device comprising:an illumination unit that illuminates the material in the form of lumps;a spectrometer that performs spectral analysis on light reflected from the material in the form of lumps to measure spectral reflectance; andan arithmetic device that extracts at least one feature quantity from the spectral reflectance measured by the spectrometer and computes the fine ratio from the extracted at least one feature quantity.8. The fine ratio measuring device according to claim 7 ,wherein the at least one feature quantity is at least one score of at least one basis vector of at least one predetermined principal component obtained by subjecting spectral reflectances at a plurality of wavelengths to principal component analysis, the spectral reflectances being measured by the spectrometer,the arithmetic device includes an arithmetic unit and a storage unit,a relational expression between the fine ratio and the at least one score is prestored in the storage unit, andthe arithmetic unit computes the at least one score from the spectral reflectances at the plurality of wavelengths and then computes the fine ratio using the computed at least one score and the relational expression.9. The fine ratio measuring device according to claim 7 , ...

Device for dimensionally checking containers via contactless optical detection

An inspection device comprises movable equipment ( 6 ) driven relative to a stand ( 7 ) and fitted with at least one inspection gauge ( 14, 15 ). The device also includes a measurement system ( 30 ) comprising a contactless transceiver system ( 30 a ) for emitting and receiving a light beam (F) along a path in which there is arranged a target ( 30 b ) that is securely mounted to the first inspection gauge, the transceiver system being secured to the stand, and delivering measurements continuously of the position of the first inspection gauge relative to the stand ( 7 ). A processor unit ( 31 ) is provided that means for detecting when the measurements of the position of the inspection gauge delivered by the transceiver system ( 30 a ) cease varying, in order to determine that contact has occurred between the inspection gauge and the container.

OIL DETECTION PROCESS AND APPARATUS

An inspection station for detecting oil or lubricant contamination in a manufactured product, the inspection station having (a) a conveyor for advancing manufactured product, and (b) an infrared detection apparatus, including (i) a high intensity infrared light source for directing at the manufactured product, and (ii) a high speed NIR spectrometer sensor tuned to detect an emitted signal from a taggant disposed in the oil or lubricant. 1. An inspection station for detecting oil or lubricant contamination in a manufactured product , comprising(a) a conveyor for advancing manufactured product; and (i) a high intensity infrared light source for directing at the manufactured product, and', '(ii) a high speed NIR spectrometer sensor tuned to detect an emitted signal from a taggant disposed in the oil or lubricant,, '(b) an infrared detection apparatus, said infrared detection apparatus includingwherein said infrared detection apparatus is positioned proximate said conveyor for advancing manufactured product at a distance effective to enable detection of emitted IR radiation as each advancing successive manufactured product is irradiated.2. The inspection station of claim 1 , wherein the taggant is an Indocyanine Green complex.3. The inspection station of claim 2 , wherein the taggant disposed in the oil or lubricant is a Stokes-shifting taggant claim 2 , which absorbs infrared radiation at a first wavelength and fluoresces at a second wavelength claim 2 , different from said first wavelength.4. The inspection station of claim 3 , wherein said first wavelength is about 805 nanometers and said second wavelength is about 840 nanometers.5. The inspection station of claim 1 , wherein the taggant is oil or lubricant soluble.6. The inspection station of claim 5 , wherein the taggant is added to the oil or lubricant at a concentration of between about 10 ppm and 100 ppm.7. The inspection station of claim 6 , wherein the taggant is added to the oil at a concentration of about 50 ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OPTICALLY CHARACTERIZING MATERIALS

The present invention relates to a device for optical characterisation of a sample and/or of the material(s) of the same having an illumination unit that can be orientated to illuminate with incident light a sample spatial portion into which the sample can be introduced, a detection unit which is orientated or can be orientated to image the sample introduced into the sample spatial portion by receiving light reflected by the sample, and which is configured to detect at least two different, preferably orthogonal, polarization components in the reflected light, and an evaluation unit with which, in the imaging data recorded by the detection unit, those imaged surface elements (reflection elements) of the sample can be identified, and with which the detected different polarization components for these reflection elements can be evaluated for optical characterisation. 1. A device for optical characterisation of a sample and/or of the material/materials of the sample , the device comprising:an illumination unit which is capable of being orientated to illuminate with incident light a sample spatial portion into which the sample can be introduced,a detection unit which is capable of being orientated to image the sample introduced into the sample spatial portion by receiving light reflected by the sample, and which is configured to detect at least two different polarisation components in the reflected light, andan evaluation unit with which, in the imaging data recorded by the detection unit, those imaged surface elements being reflection elements of the sample can be identified, the reflected, received light of which is based on a reflection of the incident light on the sample, and with which the detected different polarisation components for these reflection elements is evaluated for optical characterisation.2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the reflection elements can be identified with the evaluation unit claim 1 , before the detected different polarisation ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPTICAL INSPECTION OF ELECTRONIC CIRCUITS

An optical inspection system for an electronic circuit comprises sensors of images of the electronic circuit, at least two supports on which are intended to rest two parts of the electronic circuit and a device for modifying the position of each support, independently of one another. 1. An optical inspection system for an electronic circuit comprising sensors of images of the electronic circuit , at least two supports having two portions of the electronic circuit intended to rest thereon , and a device for modifying the position of each support , independently from each other.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the electronic circuit comprises a printed circuit claim 1 , each support being intended to support a lateral edge of the printed circuit.3. The system of claim 1 , comprising a first conveyor capable of transporting the electronic circuit along a first direction claim 1 , the supports extending parallel to the first direction.4. The system of claim 3 , comprising a second conveyor capable of transporting the image sensors along a second direction claim 3 , non-parallel to the first direction claim 3 , and claim 3 , particularly claim 3 , perpendicular to the first direction.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the device is capable of displacing each support claim 4 , independently from each other claim 4 , along a third direction claim 4 , non-parallel to the first and second directions claim 4 , and claim 4 , particularly claim 4 , perpendicular to the first and second directions.6. The system of claim 1 , comprising a device for locking the portions of the electronic circuit on the supports.7. A method of optical inspection of an electronic circuit claim 1 , at least two portions of the electronic circuit resting on two supports claim 1 , the method comprising successive acquisitions of images of the electronic circuit by image sensors and the modification of the position of each support claim 1 , independently from each other claim 1 , between successive ...

MENTHOL DETECTION ON TOBACCO

A method for detecting mentholated tobacco, comprising irradiating tobacco containing menthol and a fluorescent taggant with radiation and observing the tobacco for fluorescence from the taggant. A system and method for detecting and separating mentholated tobacco from non-mentholated tobacco within a product stream is also provided. 1. A system for detecting and separating mentholated tobacco from non-mentholated tobacco within a product stream , comprising:(a) a first conveying means for delivering a product stream;(b) a first detection apparatus for detecting mentholated tobacco, the first detection apparatus positioned proximate the product stream, the first detection apparatus including a high intensity infrared light source directed at the product stream, and a high speed NIR spectrometer sensor tuned to detect an emitted signal from a taggant disposed in the menthol of the mentholated tobacco; and(c) a controller for determining whether the product stream contains mentholated tobacco by monitoring signals obtained from the first detection apparatus.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a second detection apparatus for detecting non-tobacco related material claim 1 , the second detection apparatus positioned proximate the product stream claim 1 , the second detection apparatus including a light source for illuminating the product stream and a detector for detecting light emitted from the product stream claim 1 , wherein the controller also determines whether the product stream contains non-tobacco related material by monitoring signals obtained from the second detection apparatus.3. The system of claim 2 , further comprising at least one deflecting system responsive to the signals obtained from the first detection apparatus and/or the second detection apparatus claim 2 , the at least one deflecting system directing fluid under pressure at a portion of the product stream when the controller determines that non-tobacco related material or mentholated ...

Two axis variable clamp assembly

A clamp assembly includes a single adjustment mechanism that allows for adjustment of an object supported on the clamp assembly along two axes. The adjustment mechanism connects to a bracket and a support rod on which the object is mounted to lock a desired position of the object in place when desired and to allow for adjustment of that position, when desired.

Medicine package inspection apparatus

Disclosed herein is a medicine package inspection apparatus for inspecting whether or not accurate medicines have been packaged in medicine packages. The medicine package inspection apparatus includes: a conveying unit conveying the medicine packages; an image reading unit photographing the medicine packages and reading states of the medicines by the photographed image; an aligning unit uniformly spreading the medicines packaged in the medicine packages unit so as not to be overlapped with each other; and a displaying means pivotably installed on a front surface of the body and displaying a work state simultaneously with controlling a work of inspecting the medicine packages. The displaying means is pivotably and tiltably installed on the body through a pivoting and tilting unit and configures a portion of the body, such that an inner portion of the body is opened when the displaying means pivots.

Material classification

The present disclosure relates to classification of a material type of an unknown material. The material type is classified into a probability distribution of multiple predetermined material types by using a collection of plural predetermined material classifiers. Each material type of the multiple predetermined material types is associated with a corresponding best performing classifier from the collection of plural predetermined material classifiers by a predesignated stored association. The plural material classifiers are applied to the unknown material to obtain a list of candidate material types. A list of potential best performing classifiers is looked up using the list of candidate material types as a reference into the predesignated stored association. A respective probability that the unknown material belongs to a material type is assigned based on the list of potential best performing classifiers.

INSPECTION APPARATUS, INSPECTION METHOD, AND PROGRAM

To facilitate adjusting of a distance from an inspection target to an illumination section by providing a movable illumination section that is movable independently of the imaging section. An illumination apparatus has a plurality of LEDs arranged in a substantially annular form, a light diffusion member for diffusing light emitted from the plurality of LEDs, and a lighting control part for lighting the plurality of light sources in accordance with a predetermined lighting pattern when designated to start lighting. In particular, the illumination apparatus moves independently of a camera to adjust a distance to a workpiece. 115-. (canceled)16. An inspection apparatus comprising:an illumination section which has a plurality of light segments to illuminate the inspection target from three or more illumination directions;a processor for controlling the illumination section to light the plurality of light segments;an imaging section for capturing a plurality of luminance images of an inspection target;an inspection image generating section for obtaining a normal vector of a surface of the inspection target based on the three or more luminance images acquired by the imaging section and generating a shape image based on the normal vector by a photometric stereo method;an image selection section for selecting an inspection image out of the plurality of luminance images captured by the imaging section and the shape image generated by the inspection image generating section; andan inspection tool setting section for setting an inspection tool on the selected image by the image selection section.17. The inspection apparatus according to claim 16 , wherein the inspection image generating section generates an inclination image made up of pixel values based on the normal vector.18. The inspection apparatus according to claim 17 , wherein the image selection section accepts the image selection out of the plurality of luminance images claim 17 , the shape image claim 17 , and the ...

A novel color based optical grading system with multi reflectance and multi-angle views

The present invention discloses a novel color based optical grading system with multi-reflectance and multi-angle views for grading objects of different external characteristics, and a novel color based optical grading method for grading objects based on different external characteristics. The system comprises of: multiple advanced optics units and at least one master controller. Each optics unit comprises of multiple programmable cameras, multiple spectral light sources, multiple adjustable mirrors/prisms, a mirror/prism adjustment assembly to ensure the enhanced surface analysis of the objects; at least one backlighting domes to provide uniform backlight for capturing objects in multi-reflection and multi-angle views and at least one image processing unit for processing images of each objects. The system is capable of not only identifying the type or color grade of individual object with enhanced accuracy, but is also efficient in analyzing different objects based on external characteristics like different sized objects are analyzed due to functioning of multiple adjustable mirrors or prisms. The system is automated and accurate color grading system which is capable of not only analyzing all possible color variations of any object, but is also capable of analyzing all other possible external characteristics.

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR OBSERVING AND ANALYSING OPTICAL SINGULARITIES IN GLASS CONTAINERS

The invention relates to a method of observing and analyzing optical singularities, the method consisting in: 123. An observation and analysis method for observing and analyzing optical singularities () that deflect light and that are carried at the surface or in the wall of a container () made of glass and possessing an axis of symmetry (S) , the method consisting in:{'b': '5', 'illuminating the container by means of a diffuse light source () presenting variation in a property of light along a variation direction;'}placing at least one image acquisition device sensitive to said property of light and to its variation so as to take at least one view of a container portion that might contain optical singularities when observed from at least one viewpoint (P) along an observation axis (X); andprocessing at least one view in order to analyze the optical singularities;the method being characterized in that it consists in:{'b': 3', '6, 'i': 'e', 'illuminating the outside () of the container by using a light-emitting surface () of axial symmetry around a vertical axis (Z) parallel to the axis of symmetry (S) of the containers, with the variation direction of the light property running along a generator line of the light-emitting surface at all points of the light-emitting surface;'}{'b': '6', 'with containers of low transmittance, taking the view of the container portion by the image acquisition device receiving light beams coming from a portion of the light-emitting surface () of axial symmetry situated on the same side of the container as the viewpoint (P), which beams are reflected by the surface of the container in application of the laws of specular reflection; or'}{'b': 6', '3, 'i': 'a', 'with containers of high transmittance, taking the view of the container portion by the image acquisition device receiving light beams coming from a portion of the light-emitting surface () of axial symmetry that is diametrically opposite from the viewpoint (P) relative to the ...

CHECK GRADER-ACTUATABLE INTERFACE FOR BOARD LUMBER SCANNING

A lumber check grader-actuatable interface enables a check grader to interact with grade-quality measured boards of lumber conveyed along a flow path and passing in front of the check grader. The interface accurately and continuously tracks the location of each board in front of a check grader and tracks the location of the check grader's hands relative to the boards. Gestures can, therefore, be used for a selected board to perform additional actions, such as changing the grade or changing the trims. The interface enables a check grader to walk alongside and keep pace with a board of interest as it is transported and to provide feedback to the interface about a needed change for the board of interest. By knowing which board is of interest to a check grader, the interface can display additional information for only that board without overwhelming the check grader with non-stop information overload. 1. A method of facilitating check grader interaction by physical contact with grade-quality measured boards of lumber as they are transported along a lumber flow path , comprising:transporting multiple grade-quality measured boards of lumber on a conveyor and along a board flow path, each of the multiple grade-quality measured boards characterized by a set of board attribute information and associated board identification information that are stored in memory;obtaining a board conveyor movement signal representing expected movement of the multiple grade-quality measured boards transported on the conveyor;identifying the multiple grade-quality measured boards transported on the conveyor;processing the identified multiple grade-quality measured boards by a check grader interface system that includes a three-dimensional depth camera, an image display device, a board location tracking module, and a system modeling module, the three-dimensional depth camera acquiring area-depth images of the identified multiple grade-quality measured boards as they are transported through a ...

TWO AXIS VARIABLE CLAMP ASSEMBLY

A clamp assembly includes a single adjustment mechanism that allows for adjustment of an object supported on the clamp assembly along two axes. The adjustment mechanism connects to a bracket and a support rod on which the object is mounted to lock a desired position of the object in place when desired and to allow for adjustment of that position, when desired. 2. The clamp assembly of claim 1 , wherein the protrusion of the adjustment element is threaded and rotation of the adjustment element in a first direction secures the adjustment element to the connector and the first element.3. The clamp assembly of claim 2 , wherein rotation of the adjustment element in a second direction claim 2 , opposite the first direction claim 2 , loosens a connection between the adjustment element claim 2 , connector and first element such that the adjustment element and connector are movable relative to the first element.5. The clamp assembly of claim 4 , wherein the first opening includes a thread configured to interact with the threaded protrusion of the adjustment element to selectively lock a position of the support element relative to the connector.6. The clamp assembly of claim 5 , wherein the outer element includes at least one tooth extending from an inner end thereof toward the first element and configured to fit in the opening of the first element to prevent the outer element from rotating relative to the first element.7. The clamp assembly of claim 6 , wherein the threaded protrusion engages the threads of the first opening to slide the inner element toward the first element when the adjustment knob is turned in the first direction to move the second rod channel out of alignment with the first rod channel and lock the position of the support rod relative to the connector.8. The clamp assembly of claim 7 , wherein the threaded protrusion engages the threads of the first opening to slide the inner element away from the first element when the adjustment element is turned in ...

HIGH SPEED, FLEXIBLE PRETREATMENT PROCESS MEASUREMENT SCANNER

An imaging system for detecting a defect on a workpiece surface includes one or more independently operating imaging modules and a control system including one or more processors having non-transitory computer-readable instructions for receiving and processing digital data of images captured by the one or more imaging modules to provide a combined image of a portion of the workpiece surface. The independently operating imaging modules each include a lighting unit having an adjustable support frame carrying a plurality of indexing light sources and an imaging unit including one or more imagers carried by the support frame. The imaging unit includes a pair of imagers disposed on the adjustable support frame to capture one or more images of a portion of the workpiece surface. Imaging modules for use in the imaging system, and methods for scanning a portion of a workpiece by the imaging system are described. 1. An imaging module for detecting a defect on a workpiece surface , comprising:a lighting unit comprising an adjustable support frame carrying a plurality of indexing light sources; andan imaging unit including one or more imagers carried by the support frame.2. The imaging module of claim 1 , wherein the imaging unit includes a pair of imagers disposed on the adjustable support frame to capture one or more images of a portion of the workpiece surface.3. The imaging module of claim 1 , wherein the indexing light sources comprise a plurality of light sources arrayed in a coplanar orientation.4. The imaging module of claim 1 , wherein the support frame is configured to rotate about one or more axes to alter an angle of incidence of light emitted by the lighting unit relative to the workpiece surface.5. An imaging system for detecting a defect on a workpiece surface claim 1 , comprising:one or more independently operating imaging modules; anda control system comprising one or more processors comprising non-transitory computer-readable instructions for receiving and ...

Image Acquisition System And Image Acquisition Method

An image acquisition system includes a feeding unit supplying a product, a product pickup platform onto which the product is supplied by the feeding unit, and a camera capturing an image of the product on the product pickup platform. The camera identifies a position and an angle of the product based on the image. The image acquisition system includes a robot gripping the product from the product pickup platform based on the position and the angle identified by the camera and an image acquisition platform onto which the product is placed by the robot. An imaging microscope of the image acquisition system captures an image of a surface of the product facing upwards on the image acquisition platform and a computer stores the image of the surface of the product captured by the imaging microscope.

Method for Elemental Analysis of a Snack Food Product in a Dynamic Production Line

A method and apparatus for analyzing one or more elements of targeted moving snack food surfaces uses laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy to detect the presence, absence, or amount of an element on a heterogeneous surface, including seasoned and ready-to-eat snack foods. A laser is used to quantify the element concentration without destroying the targeted sample. An automated on-line system may be integrated into the method to create a closed-loop feedback control system, adjusting the concentration as desired. 1. A method for elemental analysis on a moving snack food material , the method comprising the steps of:continuously moving a material under a laser induced breakdown spectroscopy system, wherein the product comprises a heterogeneous surface;{'sup': '2', 'sending a laser beam to the heterogeneous surface of the material, said laser beam generating energy of between about 1.00 to about 90.0 J/cm, thereby producing a plasma;'}transmitting emission generated by the plasma to a spectrum analyzer of the laser induced breakdown spectroscopy system to measure a wavelength corresponding to an element; andanalyzing a spectrum of the emission to determine an amount of the element on the material.2. The method of wherein the heterogeneous surface comprises a plurality of particles on a solid snack food product dissimilar from the particles.3. The method of wherein the material is a snack food product and the particles are seasonings.4. The method of wherein the material is a plurality of discrete ready-to-eat snack food products.5. The method of wherein the plurality of snack food products are cooked food products comprising oil.6. The method of wherein the material comprises a variable height.7. The method of wherein the material comprises a plurality of discrete snack food products and a series of laser pulses is sent to the heterogeneous surface of the plurality of discrete snack food products to determine one or more elements on the plurality of snack food products ...

GLASS SHEET ACQUISITION AND POSITIONING SYSTEM AND ASSOCIATED METHOD FOR AN INLINE SYSTEM FOR MEASURING THE OPTICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF A GLASS SHEET

A method is provided for measuring optical characteristics of a glass sheet as the glass sheet is conveyed in a system for fabricating glass sheets including one or more processing stations and one or more conveyors for conveying the glass sheet during processing. The method comprises providing a background screen including contrasting elements arranged in a pre-defined pattern and a camera for acquiring an image of the background screen; acquiring data associated with a shape of a glass sheet travelling on a conveyor upstream from the background screen; removing the glass sheet from the conveyor; and positioning the glass sheet between the camera and the screen and thereafter acquiring an image of the background screen; re-positioning the glass sheet for continued movement of the glass sheet on the conveyor; and performing one or more processing operations using the acquired image data to analyze the optical characteristics of the glass sheet. 1providing a background screen including contrasting elements arranged in a pre-defined pattern and a camera for acquiring an image of the background screen;acquiring data associated with the shape of a glass sheet travelling on a conveyor upstream from the background screen;capturing a glass sheet at a preselected location as it is transported on the conveyor;removing the glass sheet from the conveyor; andpositioning the glass sheet between the camera and the screen in a preselected orientation and thereafter acquiring an image of the background screen;re-positioning the glass sheet for continued movement of the glass sheet on the conveyor; andperforming one or more processing operations using the acquired image data to analyze the optical characteristics of the glass sheet.. A method for measuring the optical characteristics of a glass sheet as the glass sheet is conveyed in a system for fabricating glass sheets including one or more processing stations and one or more conveyors for conveying the glass sheet from station to ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OPTICAL INSPECTION OF OBJECTS, IN PARTICULAR METAL LIDS

An apparatus () for optical inspection of objects (), in particular metal lids, comprises: a camera () oriented according to a vertical viewing axis () to see the object () to be inspected positioned in an inspection station () and to capture an image of the object (); a first illuminator () irradiating grazing light at a first frequency a second illuminator () irradiating top-down light at a second frequency different from the first frequency; a third illuminator () irradiating diffused light at a third frequency different from the first and second frequencies; a processor connected to the camera () for processing the captured image and deriving a first, a second and a third filtered image corresponding to the illumination contributions of the first, second and third illuminators (), respectively and separately. The third illuminator () is mounted on a three-dimensional surface around the inspection station () and around an optical path defined by the camera (), so that the emitted light rays are inclined at a plurality of different inclination angles to subject the object () in the inspection station () to diffused light at the third frequency. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the third frequency is in the green spectrum.3. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first frequency is in the red spectrum and the second frequency is in the blue spectrum.4. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the three-dimensional surface has the shape of a bell or a dome.5. The apparatus according to claim 1 , comprising a beam splitter mirror interposed between the camera and the inspection station claim 1 , wherein the second and third illuminators each have a corresponding plurality of illuminating elements claim 1 , wherein at least one of the illuminating elements of the second illuminator and at least one of the illuminating elements of the third illuminator are positioned upstream of the beam splitter mirror.6. The apparatus according to any one ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM OF DETECTING FOREIGN MATERIALS WITHIN AN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT STREAM

Methods and systems for detecting foreign material within a product stream in real-time, involve illuminating a portion of the agricultural product stream with light spanning a wavelength range including or within near-infrared and/or shortwave infrared wavelengths; scanning a line of the illuminated agricultural product stream to acquire a hyperspectral image of the line, the hyperspectral image of the line having a width of a single pixel; processing the hyperspectral image of the scanned line to obtain spectrum data for one or more pixels of the hyperspectral image of the scanned line; comparing the obtained spectrum data of the one or more pixels to predetermined spectrum data to determine whether the obtained spectrum data is indicative of foreign material within the scanned line of the agricultural product stream. 1. A method of detecting foreign material within an agricultural product stream in real-time , the method comprising:illuminating a portion of the agricultural product stream with light spanning a wavelength range including or within near-infrared and/or shortwave infrared wavelengths;scanning a line of the illuminated agricultural product stream to acquire a hyperspectral image of the line, the hyperspectral image of the line having a width of a single pixel;processing the hyperspectral image of the scanned line to obtain spectrum data for one or more pixels of the hyperspectral image of the scanned line; andcomparing the obtained spectrum data of the one or more pixels to predetermined spectrum data to determine whether the obtained spectrum data is indicative of foreign material within the scanned line of the agricultural product stream.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the scanned line of agricultural product stream is perpendicular to a direction in which the agricultural product stream is being moved.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the predetermined spectrum data is a calculated value based upon spectral data associated with one of the ...

Device and method for crumbling root crops and for determining components in root crops

The invention relates to a device for crumbling root crops into substantially equal sized pieces, comprising: a main frame having an inlet side and an outlet side; a root crop supply at the inlet side; at least one crumbling shaft rotatable supported in the main frame, the crumbling shaft being provided with a plurality of curved hooks, which are curved into a direction of rotation of the crumbling shaft; and a non-rotating cutting rake having a plurality of protrusions and recesses and forming a counter blade for the hooks, wherein the hooks are arranged for interlaced movement with said recesses of the non-rotating rake. The invention moreover concerns a system and a corresponding method.

CAMERA SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INSPECTING AND/OR MEASURING OBJECTS

The invention relates to a camera system for inspecting and/or measuring objects in an environment, comprising a color image sensor, an objective arrangement in front of the color image sensor for imaging an object from the environment on the color image sensor and at least one taking illumination light source with which the environment can be illuminated by non-monochromatic light, in particular without passing through the objective arrangement. In accordance with the invention, an internal reference illumination light source is provided which is arranged such that the color image sensor can be illuminated by it without the light irradiated by it for this purpose passing through the objective arrangement. The invention furthermore relates to a method for inspecting and/or measuring objects using such a camera system. 1. A camera system for inspecting and/or measuring objects in an environment , comprising:a color image sensor;an objective arrangement in front of the color image sensor for imaging an object from the environment on the color image sensor;at least one taking illumination light source with which the environment can be illuminated by non-monochromatic light; andat least one internal reference illumination light source which is arranged such that the color image sensor can be illuminated by it without the light irradiated by it passing through the objective arrangement.2. The camera system in accordance with claim 1 ,wherein the at least one internal reference illumination light source and the at least one taking illumination light source are of mutually the same construction.3. The camera system in accordance with claim 1 ,wherein the at least one taking illumination light source and the at least one internal reference illumination light source are each formed by at least one LED.4. The camera system in accordance with claim 1 ,wherein the at least one taking illumination light source and the at least one reference illumination light source each ...

INSPECTION SYSTEM

An inspection system is configured for use with a conveyer apparatus including carrier bars. Each carrier bar conveys pellet-shaped articles along a predetermined path. The inspection system includes at least one camera unit for sensing a predetermined characteristic of the pellet-shaped articles, a removal unit, and a controller. The removal unit, downstream from the at least one camera unit, removes selected pellet-shaped article(s) from the carrier bar(s) depending on whether the characteristic is sensed by the at least one camera unit. The controller is in communication with the at least one camera unit and the removal unit. The controller provides a signal to the removal unit in accordance with the sensed characteristic. The removal unit includes a rotatable ejection drum having extended vacuum nozzles along its length, equal to the number of articles conveyed in each carrier bar. Each vacuum nozzle selectively removes article(s) from the carrier bar(s) by suction. 1. An inspection system comprising:a conveyor to convey a plurality of pellet-shaped articles along a path;at least one camera unit configured to sense a predetermined characteristic of the plurality of pellet-shaped articles;a removal unit, downstream from the at least one camera unit, structured to remove at least a selected one of the plurality of pellet-shaped articles from the path depending on whether the predetermined characteristic is sensed by the at least one camera unit; and provide a signal to the removal unit in accordance with the predetermined characteristic sensed by the at least one camera unit, the signal representing whether a given pellet-shaped article is to be accepted or rejected, and', 'generate for output to a display device a first display area including real-time video output, including at least a portion of the conveyor, from the at least one camera unit., 'processing resources, including at least one processor, the processing resources being operably connected to and in ...

METHOD FOR SURFACE PLASMON RESONANCE FLUORESCENCE ANALYSIS AND DEVICE FOR SURFACE PLASMON RESONANCE FLUORESCENCE ANALYSIS

The present invention includes a prism having a light incidence surface and a film formation surface, a metal film disposed on the film formation surface, and a trapping body secured to the metal film. Excitation light is irradiated from an excitation light irradiation part onto an analysis chip installed in a chip holder, and excitation light reflected by the analysis chip is detected. The information outputted by the excitation light irradiation part is acquired. 1. A surface plasmon resonance fluorescence analysis method , comprising the steps:applying excitation light generated by an excitation light generator to an analysis chip disposed in a chip holder and detecting fluorescence that is emitted by a fluorescence material when the fluorescence material is excited by the excitation light, the detected fluorescence indicating a presence or an amount of a detection object based on a surface plasmon resonance,acquiring output information by applying excitation light from the excitation light irradiator to the analysis chip and by detecting reflection light, the reflection light being a part of the excitation light that is reflected by at least an incidence surface of the analysis chip, the output information being based on the reflection light and including a power of the excitation light generated by the excitation light irradiator, the analysis chip including a prism including the incidence surface and a film formation surface, a metal film disposed on the film formation surface, and a capturing body fixed on the metal film,determining whether the excitation light irradiator is in a normal condition by comparing the output information of the excitation light irradiator with preliminarily acquired output information that serves as a reference of the excitation light irradiator, andadjusting a power of the excitation light generated by the excitation light irradiator in accordance with the output information.2. The surface plasmon resonance fluorescence analysis ...

Glass Container Inspection Machine With A Graphic User Interface

An improved system and method for automatically glass containers for defects and facilitates the identification and review of extensive information on defects identified by the glass container inspection machine on a touchscreen monitor. User gestures are used to review images larger than a size that can be displayed at any given time on the touchscreen monitor, to access and display images of glass containers having parameters that vary from the predetermined parameters, and to setup glass container inspection machine parameters and details of the inspections.

Pill inspection apparatus and pill inspection method

A pill inspection apparatus of the present invention includes: an illumination portion 30 for irradiating light to a medical envelope 20 in which at least a translucent pill 22 is enclosed; an imaging portion 11 for acquiring a transmission image of the irradiated medical envelope 20 ; and an image processing portion 12 for detecting, as the translucent pill 22 , a pill having a brightness value of its outer periphery lower than that of its center using the transmission image, the illumination portion 30 includes a light emitting portion 31 , and a light-collecting portion 33 for collecting light is provided between the light emitting portion 31 and the medical envelope 20 . By obtaining a uniform outline of the translucent pill 22 irrespective of a shooting position, it is possible to inspect the translucent pill 22 irrespective of a permeation rate.

INSPECTION SYSTEM

An inspection system is configured for use with a conveyer apparatus including carrier bars. Each carrier bar conveys pellet-shaped articles along a predetermined path. The inspection system includes at least one camera unit for sensing a predetermined characteristic of the pellet-shaped articles, a removal unit, and a controller. The removal unit, downstream from the at least one camera unit, removes selected pellet-shaped article(s) from the carrier bar(s) depending on whether the characteristic is sensed by the at least one camera unit. The controller is in communication with the at least one camera unit and the removal unit. The controller provides a signal to the removal unit in accordance with the sensed characteristic. The removal unit includes a rotatable ejection drum having extended vacuum nozzles along its length, equal to the number of articles conveyed in each carrier bar. Each vacuum nozzle selectively removes article(s) from the carrier bar(s) by suction. 1. A system configured for use with a conveyer apparatus including a plurality of carrier bars , each carrier bar being structured to convey a plurality of pellet-shaped articles along a predetermined path , the inspection system comprising:at least one camera configured to sense the plurality of pellet-shaped articles being conveyed along the predetermined path;a lighting assembly configured to illuminate the pellet-shaped articles as they are being sensed by the at least one camera;a removal unit, downstream of the at least one camera, structured to remove the plurality of pellet-shaped articles from the plurality of carrier bars; and determine whether at least first and second predetermined characteristics are present for the plurality of pellet-shaped articles as the plurality of pellet-shaped articles are being conveyed along the predetermined path, the first predetermined characteristic being indicative of a coating for a given pellet-shaped article and the second predetermined characteristic ...

MEASUREMENT SYSTEM ON A CONVEYOR

A measurement system used in conjunction with a conveyor includes a first sensor with a first transceiver and a second sensor with a second transceiver. The transceivers transmit a first light beam and a second light beam towards a movable portion of the conveyor. A control unit communicably coupled to the first sensor and the second sensor, wherein the control unit calculates a first distance between the first sensor and the movable portion based on the first sensor and a second distance between the second sensor and the movable portion based on the second sensor. The control unit determines a difference value between the first distance and the second distance; and stops the unloader in response to the difference value being above a predefined threshold value. 1. A measurement system used in conjunction with a conveyor , comprising:a first sensor with a first transceiver and a second sensor with a second transceiver mounted on a fixed portion of the conveyor, wherein the first transceiver and the second transceiver respectively transmit a first light beam and a second light beam towards a movable portion of the conveyor; calculate a first distance between the first sensor and the movable portion based on the first sensor detecting a first reflection of the first light beam from the movable portion of the conveyor while it is moving;', 'calculate a second distance between the second sensor and the movable portion based on the second sensor detecting a second reflection of the second light beam from the movable portion of the conveyor while it is moving;', 'determine a difference value between the first distance and the second distance; and', 'stop a movement of the movable portion of the conveyor in response to the difference value is above a predefined threshold value., 'a control unit communicably coupled to the first sensor and the second sensor, wherein the control unit is configured to2. The measurement system of claim 1 , wherein the movable portion comprises ...

METHOD FOR CHECKING COMPLIANCE OF A MECHANICAL PART OF A VEHICLE

A method for checking compliance of a mechanical part of a vehicle, including an image capture step for producing a study image of the mechanical part, and a step of analysing the study image by an analysis unit, said analysis step including a results phase transmitting a results signal indicating whether the mechanical part is compliant or, on the contrary, non-compliant. 1. A method for checking compliance of a mechanical part of a vehicle comprising an image capture step intended to produce a study image of the mechanical part , and a step of analyzing the study image by an analysis unit , said analysis step comprising a result phase emitting a result signal indicating whether the mechanical part is compliant or , on the contrary , non-compliant.2. The checking method according to claim 1 , wherein the analysis step comprises a definition phase during which at least one detection criterion is defined.3. The checking method according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one detection criterion is defined from: a width of a set of pixels having a value and/or a given color claim 1 , a height of a set of pixels having a value and/or a given color.4. The checking method according to claim 1 , wherein the image capture step comprises a raw image phase during which at least one image capture apparatus produces at least one raw image of the mechanical part.5. The checking method according to claim 4 , wherein claim 4 , during the raw image phase claim 4 , the image capture apparatus produces at least one raw black and white image.6. The checking method according to claim 4 , wherein claim 4 , during the raw image phase claim 4 , the image capture apparatus produces a first image during which the mechanical part is illuminated by a white light.7. The checking method according to claim 4 , wherein claim 4 , during the raw image phase claim 4 , the image capture apparatus produces a second image during which the mechanical part is illuminated by an ultraviolet light.8. The ...

AN INSPECTION MACHINE

The automatic inspection machine for containers and contents thereof, comprises a serial horizontal conveyor line of the containers oriented with a vertical axis through at least one inspection station comprising lighting means of the containers, at least one television camera for acquiring images of the illuminated containers, the lighting means comprising a first, a second and at least a third lighting device. 1. An automatic inspection machine for containers and contents thereof , comprising a serial horizontal conveyor line of the containers oriented with a vertical axis through at least one inspection station comprising lighting means of the containers , at least one television camera for acquiring images of the illuminated containers , wherein said lighting means comprises a first , a second and at least a third lighting device.2. The automatic inspection machine according to claim 1 , wherein said first claim 1 , second and third lighting devices have projection axes converging on a same transit zone of said containers.3. The automatic inspection machine according to claim 1 , wherein said projection axes converge with different angles on said transit zone of said containers.4. The automatic inspection machine according to claim 1 , wherein said first claim 1 , second and third lighting devices are positioned on opposite sides of said conveyor line so as to illuminate said transit zone of said containers from opposite sides.5. The automatic inspection machine according to claim 1 , wherein at least said first and second lighting devices have a projection axis inclined from the top to the bottom.6. The automatic inspection machine according to claim 1 , wherein said third lighting device has a projection axis inclined from the bottom to the top.7. The automatic inspection machine according to claim 1 , wherein said third lighting device emits a colored light.8. The automatic inspection machine according to claim 1 , wherein said conveyor line comprises at ...

SIZING DEFECT DETECTION SYSTEM AND SIZING DEFECT DETECTION METHOD

A light emission part projects a laser light toward an edge portion of a formation. The laser light extends in a direction intersecting a conveyance direction of a forming belt. A light receiving part is opposed to the light emission part and located on the opposite side of the formation. The laser light passes through an area above an upper surface of the formation at least partially and is partially blocked by rising of the edge portion of the formation. A control device determines occurrence of the glue-joint failure on the basis of whether the quantity of light received by the light receiving part is reduced by at least a predetermined value or a predetermined rate, and provides or gives a visual display or a warning of the occurrence of glue-joint failure. 1. A system for detecting glue-joint failure , which is provided on a gypsum board production apparatus and which detects the glue-joint failure at a glue joint section of upper and lower sheets of paper for gypsum board liner with use of optical detection means , wherein the gypsum board production apparatus is arranged to glue edge portions of the sheets with gypsum slurry being fed between the sheets , thereby forming a continuous layered formation , which is formed with a cross-section of an edge portion of a gypsum board and which is conveyed by a forming belt , comprising:a light emission part which is located on one side of said continuous layered formation on said forming belt and which projects a laser light toward an edge portion of said formation, the laser light extending in a direction intersecting a conveyance direction of the forming belt and said formation being in a drying and setting process of the slurry;a light receiving part which is opposed to the light emission part and located on the opposite side of said formation and which receives the laser light of the light emission part; anda control device for determining occurrence of the glue-joint failure when a height of said laser light ...

Oil detection process and apparatus

A process for detecting oil or lubricant contamination in a manufactured product, the process comprising adding a fluorescent taggant to oils or lubricants contained in processing machinery for said product, conveying said product past an infrared detection apparatus, irradiating said product with infrared radiation from said detection apparatus as it passes the detection apparatus, and detecting infrared radiation emitted from said irradiated product.

INSPECTION SYSTEM

An inspection system is configured for use with a conveyer apparatus including carrier bars. Each carrier bar conveys pellet-shaped articles along a predetermined path. The inspection system includes at least one camera unit for sensing a predetermined characteristic of the pellet-shaped articles, a removal unit, and a controller. The removal unit, downstream from the at least one camera unit, removes selected pellet-shaped article(s) from the carrier bar(s) depending on whether the characteristic is sensed by the at least one camera unit. The controller is in communication with the at least one camera unit and the removal unit. The controller provides a signal to the removal unit in accordance with the sensed characteristic. The removal unit includes a rotatable ejection drum having extended vacuum nozzles along its length, equal to the number of articles conveyed in each carrier bar. Each vacuum nozzle selectively removes article(s) from the carrier bar(s) by suction. 1at least one camera unit configured to sense a predetermined characteristic of the plurality of pellet-shaped articles;a removal unit structured to remove the plurality of pellet-shaped articles from the plurality of carrier bars; anda controller in communication with the at least one camera unit and the removal unit, the controller providing a signal to the removal unit in accordance with the predetermined characteristic sensed by the at least one camera unit,wherein the removal unit includes a rotatable ejection drum having a plurality of vacuum nozzles along its length associated with the number of articles conveyed in each carrier bar, the vacuum nozzles structured to remove all of the articles from the carrier bar by suction and selectively release suction applied to all of the articles to release the articles into one of an accept bin and a reject bin depending on the predetermined characteristic sensed by the at least one camera unit.. An inspection system configured for use with a conveyer ...

AN INSPECTION SYSTEM FOR DETECTING DEFECTS IN STRUCTURES OF CONTAINERS, SUCH AS BEVERAGE BOTTLES, USING A LIGHT TRANSMISSION SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO TRANSMIT LIGHT THROUGH A PORTION OF A BOTTLE

An inspection system for detecting defects in structures of containers, such as beverage bottles, using a light transmission system configured to transmit light through a portion of a bottle. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner. 1. A container light transmission system configured to transmit light through at least one portion of a container and to provide images to an inspection device for detect structures of a container , such as a bottle , said system comprising:a lighting unit, configured to be arranged at a first side of a transport path of an apparatus to transport a container, and configured to shine light through at least one portion of a container;an optical unit, configured to be disposed on a second side of the transport path of the apparatus, to detect a transmitted light image of at least one container portion;wherein a lens is disposed at the lighting unit to align the light beams emitted from the lighting unit;wherein the lens is a film lens, such as a Fresnel's lens, which aligns the light beams so as not to be perpendicular to a transport path of a container.2. The container light transmission system according to claim 1 , wherein the lens aligns the light beams in two different spatial directions.3. The container light transmission system according to ...

Method for dynamic analysis of parcels

Disclosed herein is a method for dynamic analysis of parcels, particularly intended to be implemented within logistics facilities. The method achieves real time analysis of stability performance of the parcels before the parcels enter specific paths within the logistics facility, so that the paths can be chosen based of stability performance of the parcels determined through the method.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMAGE CAPTURE IN AN ASSEMBLY LINE GROW POD

An image capture system for a grow pod includes a master controller that has a processor, a memory, and cameras that are communicatively coupled to the master controller and positioned to capture images of plants or seeds. The memory stores a grow recipe and a logic. The grow recipe defines instructions for growing the plants or seeds and expected attributes corresponding to the instructions. The logic, when executed by the processor, causes the master controller to perform at least the following: receive, from the cameras, the images of the plants or seeds, determine attributes of the plants or seeds from the images, compare the attributes of the plants or seeds from the images to the expected attributes defined by the grow recipe, and adjust the instructions of the grow recipe for growing the plants or seeds based on the comparison of the attributes to the expected attributes. 1. An image capture system for a grow pod comprising:a master controller that includes a processor and a non-transitory computer readable memory; and the non-transitory computer readable memory stores a grow recipe and a logic,', 'the grow recipe defines one or more instructions for growing the plurality of plants, seeds, or both and one or more expected attributes corresponding to the one or more instructions of the grow recipe, and', receive, from the one or more cameras, the one or more images of the plurality of plants, seeds, or both,', 'determine one or more attributes of the plurality of plants, seeds, or both from the one or more images,', 'compare the one or more attributes of the plurality of plants, seeds, or both from the one or more images to the one or more expected attributes defined by the grow recipe, and', 'adjust the one or more instructions of the grow recipe for growing the plurality of plants, seeds, or both based on the comparison of the one or more attributes to the one or more expected attributes., 'the logic, when executed by the processor, causes the master ...

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR VISUALLY INSPECTING OBJECTS TO BE TESTED DURING THE PRODUCTION AND/OR PACKAGING OF CIGARETTES

A method and a device for the optical testing of objects during the production and/or packaging of cigarettes, in particular of cigarette packs and/or blanks for cigarette packs and/or overprints and/or print substrates on or for cigarette packs, with the aid of a suitable testing device. For at least one feature characterizing the test object, in particular in a visual respect, a set of feature-value alternatives for the corresponding feature that are stored in a memory is displayed on a display means. By means of an input device, one of the displayed feature values of the set of feature-value alternatives is selected. The testing device is automatically set up or preset for the subsequent testing operations, in particular an evaluating device and/or an illuminating device and/or a suitable light detector of the testing device, the selection of the feature value influencing the setting up of the testing device. 11014221010. A method for the optical testing of objects to be tested—test objects—during the production and/or packaging of cigarettes , in particular of cigarette packs () and/or blanks ( , ) for cigarette packs () and/or overprints and/or print substrates on or for cigarette packs () , with the aid of a suitable testing device ,comprising:{'b': 10', '14', '18', '29', '30', '31', '32, 'i': a', 'c;', 'a', 'b, 'a) for at least one feature characterizing the test object (, , , , ), in particular in a visual respect, a set of feature-value alternatives (--) for the corresponding feature that are stored in a memory is displayed on a display means, for instance a screen;'}{'b': 31', '32, 'i': a', 'c;', 'a', 'b, 'b) by means of an input device, for instance a keyboard or a pointing device, one of the displayed feature values of the set of feature-value alternatives (--) is selected;'}{'b': 26', '11', '31', '32, 'i': a;', 'a, 'c) the testing device is automatically set up or preset for the subsequent testing operations, in particular an evaluating device and/or an ...

Detection apparatus and method for detecting an object using a plurality of optoelectronic sensors

A detection apparatus ( 10 ) is provided having a plurality of optoelectronic sensors ( 20 ) that are arranged in different positions and orientations to record respective image information of different sides of an object ( 14 ) and having an evaluation unit ( 22 ) to process the image information. In this respect, the evaluation unit ( 22 ) is configured to recognize views of a respective side of the object ( 14 ) in the image information and to arrange the views in a plane such that the original arrangement on the object ( 14 ) can be restored.

Apparatus for Photographing Glass in Multiple Layers

The invention discloses a new apparatus to photograph glasses in multiple layers for taking high quality photo images with scratch, crash, black/white defect, lack, crack, pin-hole, concave edge and raised edge, bubble and smudge defects on the surface-layer, backside-layer or/and mid-layer of the glasses. The invention also introduces flexible and expendable photographing hardware architecture that will meet various customers inspecting defects requirements and speed requirements. 1: An apparatus for photographing glass(es) to expose defects , comprising: at least one camera , at least one light source , at least one computer and/or a conveyor;wherein said defects comprising of one or more of the following types: scratches, silk print defects, black/white defects, lacks, cracks, pin-holes, concave and raised edges, bubbles and smudges on the surface, backside or/and mid-layer of the glass(es);wherein the angle and distance between said glass and said light sources is designed based on the type of said defects;wherein the angle and distance between said glass(es) and at least one cameras is designed based on the type of said defects;wherein said camera is a line-scan camera or area-scan camera; andwherein said light source is a strip-shaped light source made of LED lights or other type of lights.2: The apparatus for photographing glass(es) of claim 1 , said camera is mounted on the topside of said glass(es) or on the bottom of backside of said glasses; the distance between said camera and said glass(es) is between 50-1500 mm; one or more strip-shaped light sources are mounted at any position surrounding said camera claim 1 , and every light source spreads over the entire scanning area of said camera; the length of said strip-shaped light sources is greater than the width of said glass(es); and the width of said strip-shaped light sources is between 2 mm and the length of said glass(es).3: The apparatus for photographing glass(es) to expose defects of claim 1 , ...

Method and apparatus for analyzing plastic preforms

Disclosed is a method analysing plastic preforms, wherein plastic preforms are transported along a predetermined transport path by a transport device and an infrared absorption coefficient is determined in at least one region of the plastic preform, wherein, in order to determine the infrared absorption coefficient of the plastic preform, infrared radiation is applied to the plastic preform by a first radiation device and radiation passing through the plastic preform is received by at least one receiving device and an infrared absorption behaviour of the plastic preform is determined from this received radiation, wherein the radiation device acts upon the plastic preforms with infrared radiation in a predetermined wavelength range and an evaluation device evaluates the radiation as a function of its wavelength in a wavelength range from 1500 nm to 2000 nm.

HIGH SPEED ROTARY SORTER

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to expandable substrate inspection systems. The inspection system includes multiple metrology units adapted to inspect, detect, or measure one or more characteristics of a substrate, including thickness, resistivity, saw marks, geometry, stains, chips, micro cracks, and crystal fraction. The inspection systems may be utilized to identify defects on substrates and estimate cell efficiency prior to processing a substrate. Substrates may be transferred through the inspection system and/or between metrology units on a track or conveyor, and then sorted via at least one gripper coupled with the high speed rotatory sorting apparatus into respective bins based upon the inspection data. The rotary sorting apparatus maintains a sorting capability of at least 5,400 substrates per hour. Each bin may optionally have a gas support cushion for supporting the substrate as it falls from the rotary sorting apparatus into the respective bin. 1. An apparatus for inspecting and sorting a plurality of substrates , the apparatus comprising:a sorting unit;a rotatable support disposed within the sorting unit, the rotatable support rotatable about a rotational axis;a plurality of arms, each arm having a first end coupled to the rotatable support and a second end extending radially outward from the rotatable support relative to the rotational axis;at least one gripper coupled to the second end of each arm; anda plurality of bins positioned within the sorting unit below a path along which the at least one gripper travels as the rotatable support rotates.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the at least one gripper is a Bernoulli picker.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the at least one gripper is a contactless gripper.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a loading unit coupled with a metrology unit claim 1 , wherein the metrology unit is coupled with the sorting unit.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of ...

PROCESS AND APPARATUS FOR APPLYING NOISE REDUCER ELEMENTS TO TYRES FOR VEHICLE WHEELS

A process and apparatus for applying noise reducer elements to tyres. Each noise reducer element has an anchoring surface coated with an adhesive layer. The anchoring surface is illuminated with a reference radiation. The radiation emitted by the anchoring surface is detected; and a digital image representative of the anchoring surface is determined as a function of the emitted radiation. Each pixel of the digital image is associated with a respective brightness value representative of the amount of adhesive present in an area of the anchoring surface corresponding to such each pixel. One or more noise reducer elements are applied on the radially inner surface of a tyre. 1. A process for applying noise reducer elements to tyres , wherein each noise reducer element comprises an anchoring surface coated with an adhesive layer , comprising:illuminating said anchoring surface coated with said adhesive layer with a reference radiation; and determining a digital image representative of the anchoring surface coated with said adhesive layer, each pixel of the digital image being associated with a respective brightness value representative of the amount of adhesive present in an area of said anchoring surface corresponding to said each pixel,', 'calculating as a function of the brightness values at least one first parameter representative of the overall distribution of said adhesive layer on the anchoring surface;', 'performing a comparison between a value of said at least one first parameter and at least one reference value representative of a correct distribution of said adhesive layer on the anchoring surface;', 'basing on said comparison, applying on the radially inner surface of a tyre or direct along a discard path one or more noise reducer elements., 'detecting a radiation emitted by the anchoring surface illuminated by the reference radiation and, as a function of said emitted radiation,'}2. A process as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said illuminating said anchoring ...

Method and system of detecting foreign materials within an agricultural product stream

Methods and systems for detecting foreign material within a product stream in real-time, involve illuminating a portion of the agricultural product stream with light spanning a wavelength range including or within near-infrared and/or shortwave infrared wavelengths; scanning a line of the illuminated agricultural product stream to acquire a hyperspectral image of the line, the hyperspectral image of the line having a width of a single pixel; processing the hyperspectral image of the scanned line to obtain spectrum data for one or more pixels of the hyperspectral image of the scanned line; comparing the obtained spectrum data of the one or more pixels to predetermined spectrum data to determine whether the obtained spectrum data is indicative of foreign material within the scanned line of the agricultural product stream.

APPARATUS FOR INSPECTING SURFACE OF CYLINDRICAL BODY

An apparatus for inspecting a surface of a cylindrical body includes an arranging unit configured to arrange a plurality of cylindrical bodies at regular intervals; and a circular conveyor configured to rotate while keeping in contact with the arranging unit, receive the arranged cylindrical bodies in order and move the received cylindrical bodies in a circumferential direction. Further, the apparatus includes a plurality of clamp units configured to be arranged around a circumstance of the circular conveyor at predetermined intervals, receive the cylindrical bodies in order; and a photographing unit configured to photograph surfaces of the clamped cylindrical bodies in order. Furthermore, the apparatus includes a control unit configured to analyze the surface of each of the cylindrical bodies and determine whether the surface is defective or not. 1. An apparatus for inspecting an outside surface of cylindrical bodies , comprising:an arranging unit having a circumference, a plurality of pockets disposed at regular intervals around the circumference, each of the cylindrical bodies inserted into each of the pockets;a circular conveyor configured to rotate while keeping in contact with the arranging unit, receive the cylindrical bodies in order and move the received cylindrical bodies in a circumferential direction, wherein the circular conveyor includes a rotating shaft;a plurality of clamp units arranged around a circumference of the circular conveyor at predetermined intervals and configured to receive and clamp the cylindrical bodies in order, the clamp units being configured to rotate on the clamp units' own axes so as to rotate the clamped cylindrical bodies;a photographing unit configured to photograph entire outside surfaces of the clamped cylindrical bodies in order;a control unit configured to analyze the outside surface of each of the cylindrical bodies and determine whether the outside surface is defective or not;a rotary belt configured to rotate while ...

DEVICE FOR HANDLING AND/OR MACHINING A WORKPIECE, AND METHOD

A device () for handling and/or machining a workpiece () having a non-metal surface, comprising: a workpiece identification device () which is designed to irradiate electromagnetic radiation inside the workpiece () and to receive electromagnetic radiation reflected from the inside of the workpiece (); and a data processing unit () which is configured to determine information from the inside of the workpiece () on the basis of measured data of the reflected electromagnetic radiation. Also disclosed is a method with which it is possible to determine a characteristic material parameter, preferably a component-specific reflection value of the workpiece (), on the basis of the received electromagnetic radiation. 1. A device for handling and/or machining a workpiece having a non-metal surface , comprising:a workpiece identification device which is designed to irradiate electromagnetic radiation inside the workpiece and to receive electromagnetic radiation reflected from the inside of the workpiece, anda data processing unit which is configured to determine information from the inside of the workpiece on the basis of measured data of the reflected electromagnetic radiation.2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the information determined by the data processing unit depicts a characteristic internal structure of the workpiece.3. The device according to claim 2 , wherein the internal structure of the workpiece is retrieved in a line or plane that is perpendicular to a workpiece surface and/or in a line or plane that is parallel to a workpiece surface.4. The device according to claim 1 , comprising a conveying device which moves a workpiece at a speed claim 1 , wherein the speed is set on the basis of the information determined by the data processing unit.5. The device according to claim 1 , further comprising a machining device for machining a workpiece claim 1 , wherein the machining device is designed to machine the workpiece on the basis of the information ...

Method and system for moisture grading wood products using superimposed near infrared and visual images

Near InfraRed NIR technology, including NIR cameras and detectors, and one or more visual cameras are used to generate superimposed image data representing a visual/NIR composite image of wood product and correlating moisture levels with physical features of the surfaces of the wood product. By analyzing the visual/NIR composite image represented by superimposed image data, moisture pockets near an open physical feature that, absent the presence open physical feature would be a problem, can be identified and ignored. Based on the identified moisture levels at various locations in a given wood product, and the proximity of physical features to the identified moisture locations, one or more actions are taken with respect to wood product to ensure the wood product is put to the most efficient, effective, and valuable use.

METHOD OF SYNCHRONIZING A LINE SCAN CAMERA

A method of synchronizing a line scan camera. The method comprises: obtaining line scan data of a region of interest (ROI) of a travelling surface from the line scan camera, the line scan camera being oriented perpendicular to a direction of travel of the travelling surface, the line scan data comprising a plurality of lines; identifying occurrences of a major frequency of a repeated texture on the travelling surface using characterized line scan data for each line in the plurality of lines of the line scan data; determining a period of the major frequency; and changing a line rate of the line scan camera when the determined period is different than a reference period. 1. A method of synchronizing a line scan camera , comprising:obtaining line scan data of a region of interest (ROI) of a travelling surface from the line scan camera, the line scan camera being oriented perpendicular to a direction of travel of the travelling surface, the line scan data comprising a plurality of lines;identifying occurrences of a major frequency of a repeated texture on the travelling surface using characterized line scan data for each line in the plurality of lines of the line scan data;determining a period of the major frequency; andchanging a line rate of the line scan camera when the determined period is different than a reference period.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the major frequency of the repeated texture is determined using autocorrelation.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the major frequency of the repeated texture comprising:performing a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) on the characterized line scan data to obtain an FFT spectrum;multiplying a real part of the FFT spectrum by a complex conjugate of the FFT spectrum to obtain a product;performing an inverse FFT (IFFT) on the product to obtain an IFFT sequence; anddetermining local peaks in the IFFT sequence.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein determining the period of the major frequency comprises:determining the ...

MEDICINE PACKAGE INSPECTION APPARATUS

Disclosed herein is a medicine package inspection apparatus for inspecting whether or not accurate medicines have been packaged in medicine packages. The medicine package inspection apparatus includes: a conveying unit conveying the medicine packages; an image reading unit photographing the medicine packages and reading states of the medicines by the photographed image; an aligning unit uniformly spreading the medicines packaged in the medicine packages unit so as not to be overlapped with each other; and a displaying means pivotably installed on a front surface of the body and displaying a work state simultaneously with controlling a work of inspecting the medicine packages. The displaying means is pivotably installed on the body through a pivoting unit and configures a portion of the body, such that an inner portion of the body is opened when the displaying means pivots. 1. A medicine package inspection apparatus for inspecting medicines packaged in medicine packages , wherein the medicine package inspection apparatus confirms whether or not accurate medicines have been packaged , comprising:a conveying unit installed in a body for conveying the medicine packages to one side;an image reading unit for photographing the medicine packages conveyed by the conveying unit and for reading states of the medicines by the photographed image;an aligning unit for uniformly spreading the medicines packaged in the medicine packages conveyed to the image reading unit so that the medicines are not overlapped with each other; anda displaying means pivotably installed on a front surface of the body for displaying a work state simultaneously with controlling a work of inspecting the medicine packages,wherein the displaying means is pivotably installed on the body through a pivoting unit, andwherein the displaying means is configured relative to the body, such that an inner portion of the body is opened when an end of the displaying means pivots away from the body.2. The medicine ...

Sorting system

A system for sorting products using an imaging device and an image processor.

Optical Inspection Apparatus and Optical Sorting Apparatus

The invention concerns an apparatus for inspection of products (), provided with a transport mechanism () configured to transport a continuous stream of products () so that, on leaving the transport mechanism, the product stream () follows a free-fall path along which it is fed in a single product layer through an inspection zone (), which has a length (L) that at least corresponds to the width of the aforementioned single product layer, a light source () configured to illuminate said inspection zone (), a detection unit (), configured to optically scan the illuminated inspection zone (), an analysis unit () and possibly a removal unit () and also a background element (), which is situated behind the falling product stream, seen from the position of the detection unit, positioned so that:—light beams from the light source impinge on an illumination zone () of the background element when these beams do not impinge on a product from the product stream (),—the detection unit can only receive an image of a detection zone () of the background element, characterized in that the background element is mounted so that the illumination zone () and the detection zone () are separated from each other. 111-. (canceled)14163310. Apparatus according to claim 12 , wherein the light source is a laser source configured to illuminate the inspection zone () with a laser beam that scans this zone repeatedly in the length direction of this zone and in which the detection unit comprises at least one light sensor claim 12 , which can receive laser light that is reflected off a falling product (′ claim 12 , ″) or off the background element (′).1510. Apparatus according to claim 12 , in which the background element (′) is separated from the ambient light.161016. Apparatus as in claim 15 , wherein the background element (′) is formed by the rear wall of a duct in which products are discharged after the inspection zone ().177. Apparatus according claim 12 , which is also provided with a ...

High speed method and system for inspecting a stream of parts

A high-speed method and system for inspecting a stream of parts using at least one transparent traveling carrier of a conveyor subsystem are provided. The subsystem has a forward reach and a return reach. The method includes controllably receiving a stream of parts in rapid succession on the at least one traveling carrier and utilizing the subsystem to transfer the stream of parts in rapid succession to a part inspection station. The bottom surface of each part is illuminated through its traveling carrier with radiant energy when the part is located at the inspection station to generate reflected radiation signals which travel through its traveling carrier. A bottom image of each illuminated bottom surface is formed from the reflected radiation signals at an imaging location between the forward and return reaches at the inspection station. The bottom images are detected at the imaging location.

Simultaneous inspection of multiple surfaces of an object

The present invention discloses a system and method for scanning two sides of an object simultaneously for detecting defects in the object. In the disclosed method, objects are placed on a conveyor belt (102) which is capable of transporting objects through the system. The system comprises a duality of line image scanners (106a-b) for scanning two sides of the object on the conveyor belt (102), i.e. the front and back, through a slit (105) present in the conveyor belt (102). The scanned images are further processed to detect defects in the objects, and defective objects are stored separately to avoid further use. The defective and non-defective objects are sent to two separate receptacles disposed in the disclosed system.

AN OPTICAL INSPECTION SYSTEM

A preform optical inspection system includes a plurality of carrier units, each mounted on a respective lane conveyor for receiving preforms from an injection molding device and an optical inspection unit. The optical inspection unit is able to transverse movement across the lane conveyors and the carrier units are able to pass though the optical inspection unit. 1. A preform optical inspection system. , comprising:a plurality of carrier units, each mounted on a respective lane conveyor for receiving preforms from an injection moulding device; and,an optical inspection unit;wherein the optical inspection unit is capable of transverse movement relative to the lane conveyors and the carrier units are able to pass through the optical inspection unit.2. The preform optical inspection system according claim 1 , wherein system further comprises a tool for receiving the preforms from an injection moulding device and the tool for transferring the preforms to the carrier units.3. The preform optical inspection system according to claim 1 , wherein the lane conveyors are substantially linear.4. The preform optical inspection system according to claim 3 , wherein the lane conveyors are substantially parallel to one another.5. The preform optical inspection system according to claim 1 , wherein the optical inspection unit moves substantially perpendicularly to the lane conveyors.6. The preform optical inspection system according to claim 1 , wherein the carrier units comprise a plurality of grippers for receiving and holding the preforms therein.7. The preform optical inspection system according to claim 1 , wherein the carrier units and their respective lane conveyors are attached to a vertical conveyor which is height-wise adjustable so as to permit them to be raised towards the tool to receive the preforms and lowered therefrom.8. The preform optical inspection system according to claim 1 , wherein the system further comprises a chute positioned beneath the end of the lane ...

Package inspection system

A package inspection system includes a conveyor mechanism 6 , an X-ray generator 10 applying X rays to a package W 1 conveyed by the conveyor mechanism 6 , an X-ray sensor 13 , and an optical sensor 15 . First image data showing the outline of the content of the package W 1 are generated based on detection output from the X-ray sensor 13 . Second image data showing the outline of the wrapping of the package W 1 are generated based on detection output from an optical sensor 15 . The relative position of the wrapping and the content is determined based on the first and second image data, so that failures, e.g., the content caught in a seal of the wrapping can be detected accurately. The package inspection system can accurately determine a position of a wrapping and the content of a package even if a package has a light non-transmissive wrapping.

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR ASCERTAINING SPECIMEN AND/OR SAMPLE CONTAINER CHARACTERISTICS WHILE IN TRANSIT

Methods of identifying a characteristic of a clinical analysis specimen or a sample container containing the specimen are disclosed. The methods include moving the sample container along a track while causing translation and rotation of the sample container, and capturing two or more images of the sample container during the translation and rotation. The track may have one or more moveable belts contacting a carrier to rotate and translate the carrier holding the sample container. Image analysis may be used to read a barcode label of the sample container, determine HIL, and/or physical characteristics of the sample container. Apparatus for carrying out the method are described, as are other aspects. 1. A method of determining a characteristic of a sample container or a specimen contained within the sample container , comprising:moving the sample container along a track while causing translation and rotation of the sample container; andcapturing two or more images of the sample container during the translation and rotation.2. The method of claim 1 , comprising causing simultaneous translation and rotation of the sample container.3. The method of claim 1 , comprising analyzing at least one of the two or more images to determine a presence of one or more interferents within the specimen.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the one or more interferents comprise:an amount of lipemia in a serum or plasma portion of the specimen;an amount of hemolysis in a serum or plasma portion of the specimen; oran amount of icterus in a serum or plasma portion of the specimen.5. The method of claim 1 , comprising analyzing at least one of the two or more images to read a barcode on the sample container.6. The method of claim 1 , comprising analyzing at least one of the two or more images to determine a characteristic of the sample container.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the capturing an image further comprises:illuminating the sample container during the translation and rotation.8. ...

FIBER-REINFORCED RESIN MATERIAL, MOLDED ARTICLE, METHOD AND DEVICE FOR MANUFACTURING FIBER-REINFORCED RESIN MATERIAL, AND FIBER BUNDLE GROUP INSPECTION DEVICE

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a fiber-reinforced resin material having minimal directionality of strength as well as excellent productivity, a method and device for manufacturing a fiber-reinforced resin material whereby a molded article is obtained, and a device for inspecting a fiber bundle group. A method for manufacturing a sheet-shaped fiber-reinforced resin material in which a paste (P) is impregnated between cut fiber bundles (CF), the method for manufacturing a fiber-reinforced resin material including a coating step applying a coating of a paste (P) on a first sheet (S) conveyed in a predetermined direction, a cutting step for cutting a long fiber bundle (CF) using a cutter (A), a scattering step for dispersing the cut fiber bundles (CF) and scattering the cut fiber bundles (CF) on the paste (P), and an impregnation step for pressing a fiber bundle group (F) and the paste (P) on the first sheet (S) and impregnating the paste (P) between the fiber bundles (CF). 14-. (canceled)5. A method for manufacturing a sheet-shaped fiber-reinforced resin material impregnated with a resin between cut fiber bundles , comprising:a coating step of coating a first sheet conveyed in a predetermined direction with the resin;a cutting step of cutting an elongated fiber bundle with a cutting machine;a scattering step of dispersing cut fiber bundles and scattering the fiber bundles on the resin; andan impregnating step of pressing a scattered fiber bundle group and the resin on the first sheet to impregnate the resin between the fiber bundles.6. The method for manufacturing a fiber-reinforced resin material according to claim 5 , wherein the impregnating step is a step of overlaying a second sheet coated with the resin on a first sheet on which the fiber bundles have been dispersed claim 5 , after that claim 5 , pressing the resin and the fiber bundle group interposed between the first sheet and the second sheet to impregnate the resin between the fiber ...

METHOD, DEVICE AND INSPECTION LINE FOR VISUALIZING THE FLATNESS OF A SURFACE OF A CONTAINER RING

The invention relates to a method of visualizing the planeness of a ring surface () of a container (), the method consisting in: 116141. A visualization method for visualizing the planeness of a real ring surface () of a container () , the ring surface having a theoretical shape that is plane and annular or circular around a theoretical central axis (A) , and the method being of the type comprising the steps consisting in:{'b': '16', 'lighting the real ring surface () of the container with a peripheral incident light beam; and'}{'b': 24', '124', '18, 'using an optical system (, ) to form a plane image of the ring surface of the container on a two-dimensional photoelectric sensor ();'}the method being characterized in that:{'b': 1', '1, 'the peripheral incident light beam comprises radial light rays contained in a radial plane containing the theoretical central axis (A), said radial rays being directed towards the theoretical central axis (A);'}{'b': 16', '16, 'the peripheral incident light beam lights the ring surface () from above, and radial rays of the incident light beam are reflected by specular reflection the ring surface ();'}{'b': 16', '16', '16, 'in that the step consisting in forming a plane image includes an optical geometrical transformation that converts the real ring surface () into a ring surface image (I′), this transformation theoretically converting the theoretical ring surface into a theoretical ring surface image (I);'}{'b': 1', '16, 'in that the optical geometrical transformation converts a real height difference (dZ) along the direction of the theoretical central axis (A) between a point under consideration (T′) of the real ring surface () and a corresponding point (T) of the theoretical ring surface into an image radial offset (dR) in the image of the image point (IT′) of the ring surface image of the container relative to the corresponding image point (IT) of the theoretical ring surface image; and'}in that, in the plane image, the image ...

Method and device for orienting an umbilicated fruit, in particular for packaging same

The invention relates to a method and device for orienting an umbilicated fruit, in which, during a first orientation phase (22), the presence of at least a portion of an umbilicus is detected in at least one initial image (II), then the fruit is driven (24) in spinning rotation about a first axis of rotation at an angular amplitude of between 5° and 45°, and then the presence of at least a portion of an umbilicus is detected in at least one subsequent image (IU). If at least a portion of an umbilicus is detected in at least one initial image (II) and no longer detected in each subsequent image (IU), the first orientation phase is stopped and the method is continued,

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CONTINUOUSLY INSPECTING CONTAINERS

The present invention provides an inspection device for continuously inspecting supplied containers, in particular bottles, comprising a feed conveying apparatus, which may be embodied to supply containers to the inspection device in succession, and which may include one or more of at least one inspection apparatus, which is embodied to inspect the supplied containers, a discharge conveying apparatus, which is embodied to discharge the inspected containers, and a throughput station for the containers, arranged between the feed conveying apparatus and the discharge conveying apparatus, wherein the throughput station has a transportation apparatus with an individual drive and a plurality of conveying means movable by means of the individual drive in an individual manner and independently from one another, said transportation apparatus being embodied to convey the containers from the feed conveying apparatus to the discharge conveying apparatus. 1. An inspection device for continuously inspecting fed containers , in particular bottles , comprising:a feed conveying device configured to feed containers to the inspection device in succession,a discharge conveying device configured to discharge the inspected containers,a throughput station for the containers, which is arranged between the feed conveying device and the discharge conveying device, anda bottom inspection station in an area of the throughput station, said bottom inspection station being configured to inspect bottoms of passing containers,wherein the throughput station comprises a conveyor arrangement with an individual drive and a plurality of conveying units, which are movable by means of the individual drive individually and independently of one another, the conveyor arrangement being configured to convey the containers from the feed conveying device to the discharge conveying device,wherein the individual drive is a linear motor drive,wherein the plurality of conveying units are configured as carriages, ...

Image Inspection Device, Image Inspection Method, Image Inspection Program, And Computer-Readable Recording Medium And Recording Equipment

The image inspection device includes a reference height setting part configured to set a reference height as a reference of vibration component estimation, a vibration estimation part configured to estimate a vibration component in an inspection environment, based on the two-dimensional profile generated by the two-dimensional profile generation part and the reference height set by the reference height setting part, a profile correction part configured to remove, from the two-dimensional profile, the vibration component estimated by the vibration estimation part, a three-dimensional data generation part configured to generate three-dimensional data of the inspection object from a plurality of the two-dimensional profiles from which the vibration component is removed by the profile correction part, and an inspection part configured to conduct outer appearance inspection of the inspection object, based on the three-dimensional data generated by the three-dimensional data generation part. 1. An image inspection device for conducting outer appearance inspection , based on height information of an inspection object , the image inspection device comprising:an irradiation part configured to apply measurement light to the inspection object relatively moved in one direction;a detection part configured to detect reflected light that is applied from the irradiation part to the inspection object and is reflected at the inspection object, the reflected light including a vibration component in a height direction;a two-dimensional profile generation part configured to generate a two-dimensional profile indicating a cross-sectional shape of the inspection object, based on detection data obtained by the detection part;a reference height setting part configured to set a reference height as a reference of vibration component estimation, based on three-dimensional data before the vibration component obtained from a plurality of the two-dimensional profiles is removed;a vibration ...

GLASS SHEET ACQUISITION AND POSITIONING SYSTEM AND ASSOCIATED METHOD FOR AN INLINE SYSTEM FOR MEASURING THE OPTICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF A GLASS SHEET

A glass sheet acquisition and positioning system and associated method are utilized in a glass sheet optical inspection system installed in-line in a glass sheet processing system. The acquisition and positioning system include an exterior support frame and a moveable glass sheet support frame connected to the exterior support frame such that the glass sheet support frame may be selectively positioned from first orientation whereby a glass sheet is removed from a conveyor and retained on the support frame, to a second orientation whereby the glass sheet is positioned for processing by the optical inspection system. The system may also include a glass sheet part identifier and a programmable control including logic for analyzing acquired image data and identifying the glass sheet as one of a set of known part types and thereafter securing and positioning the glass sheet on the glass sheet support frame based upon the part-shape analysis. 1. A glass sheet acquisition and positioning system for an inline system for measuring the optical characteristics of a glass sheet , which inline system includes a background screen including contrasting elements arranged in a pre-defined pattern , a digital camera for acquiring an image of the background screen with the glass sheet positioned between the camera and the screen at a preselected position , and which inline system is installed in a system for fabricating glass sheets including one or more processing stations and one or more conveyors for conveying the glass sheet from station to station during processing , the acquisition and positioning system comprising:an exterior support frame mounted in proximity to the conveyor between the camera and the background screen;a moveable glass sheet support frame operably connected to the exterior support frame such that the glass sheet support frame may be selectively positioned from a first generally horizontal orientation in the plane of the glass sheet on the conveyor to a second, ...

IMAGE INSPECTION DEVICE AND ILLUMINATION DEVICE

The disclosure provides an image inspection device capable of uniformizing an irradiation solid angle of light to be radiated to each point on a target and being downsized. An image inspection device includes a photographing portion that images a target, and an illumination portion disposed between the target and the photographing portion. The illumination portion includes a surface light source, and a plurality of sets each including first to n-th optical members arranged along a light emitting surface of the surface light source. n is an integer equal to or greater than 2. The first to n-th optical members are disposed to face the light emitting surface, and transmit light emitted from the light emitting surface toward the target. Wavelengths and solid angles of light emitted from the first to n-th optical members toward the target are different from one another. 1. An image inspection device for inspecting a target using a captured image , the image inspection device comprising:a photographing portion that images the target; andan illumination portion disposed between the target and the photographing portion,wherein the illumination portion comprises:a surface light source; anda plurality of sets each comprising first to n-th optical members arranged along a light emitting surface of the surface light source, whereinn is an integer equal to or greater than 2,the first to n-th optical members are disposed to face the light emitting surface, and transmit light emitted from the light emitting surface toward the target, andwavelengths and solid angles of light emitted from the first to n-th optical members toward the target are different from one another.2. The image inspection device according to claim 1 ,wherein the surface light source radiates white light, andthe first to n-th optical members comprise first to n-th filters transmitting light having different wavelengths, respectively.3. The image inspection device according to claim 1 ,wherein the surface light ...

HIGH SPEED METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR INSPECTING A STREAM OF PARTS

A high-speed method and system for inspecting a stream of parts using at least one transparent traveling carrier of a conveyor subsystem are provided. The subsystem has a forward reach and a return reach. The method includes controllably receiving a stream of parts in rapid succession on the at least one traveling carrier and utilizing the subsystem to transfer the stream of parts in rapid succession to a part inspection station. The bottom surface of each part is illuminated through its traveling carrier with radiant energy when the part is located at the inspection station to generate reflected radiation signals which travel through its traveling carrier. A bottom image of each illuminated bottom surface is formed from the reflected radiation signals at an imaging location between the forward and return reaches at the inspection station. The bottom images are detected at the imaging location. 1. A high-speed method of inspecting a stream of parts , the method comprising the steps of:providing a conveyor subsystem having a forward reach and a return reach and including at least one traveling carrier;controllably receiving a stream of parts in rapid succession on the at least one traveling carrier at a load station;utilizing the conveyor subsystem to transfer the stream of parts in rapid succession from the load station to a part inspection station at which a bottom surface of each part has a predetermined position and orientation for inspection and from the part inspection station to an unload station;illuminating the bottom surface of each part through its traveling carrier with radiant energy when the part is located at the inspection station to generate reflected radiation signals which travel through its traveling carrier;forming a bottom image of each illuminated bottom surface from the reflected radiation signals at an imaging location between the forward and return reaches at the inspection station wherein each traveling carrier is substantially transparent ...

Inspection Apparatus, Inspection Method, And Program

To facilitate adjusting of a distance from an inspection target to an illumination section by providing a movable illumination section that is movable independently of the imaging section. An illumination apparatus has a plurality of LEDs arranged in a substantially annular form, a light diffusion member for diffusing light emitted from the plurality of LEDs, and a lighting control part for lighting the plurality of light sources in accordance with a predetermined lighting pattern when designated to start lighting. In particular, the illumination apparatus moves independently of a camera to adjust a distance to a workpiece. 115-. (canceled)16. An inspection apparatus comprising:an illumination section which has a plurality of light segments to illuminate the inspection target from three or more illumination directions;a storage section to store a lighting data including lighting time of the plurality of light segments and interval information indicating a lighting interval of the plurality of light segments;a processor for controlling the illumination section to light the plurality of light segments with reference to the lighting data stored in the storage section when designated to start lighting, and generating an trigger signal for designating a start of imaging in conjunction with the start of the illumination:an imaging section for capturing a plurality of luminance images of an inspection target in accordance with the trigger signal;an inspection image generating section for obtaining a normal vector of a surface of the inspection target based on the three or more luminance images acquired by the imaging section and generating an inspection image based on the normal vector by a photometric stereo method; anda determination section for determining defectiveness/non-defectiveness of the inspection target by using the inspection image.17. The inspection apparatus according to claim 16 , wherein the storage section and the processor are housed in a housing which ...

COPOLYMER AND ASSOCIATED LAYERED ARTICLE, AND DEVICE-FORMING METHOD

A copolymer is prepared by the polymerization of monomers that include an ultraviolet absorbing monomer, and a base-solubility-enhancing monomer. The copolymer is useful for forming a topcoat layer for electron beam and extreme ultraviolet lithographies. Also described are a layered article including the topcoat layer, and an associated method of forming an electronic device. 1. A method of forming an electronic device , comprising:(a) applying a photoresist layer onto a substrate;(b) applying a topcoat layer comprising a copolymer, onto the photoresist layer;(c) pattern-wise exposing the photoresist layer through the topcoat layer to activating radiation; and(d) developing the exposed photoresist layer to provide a resist relief image, an out-of-band absorbing monomer; and', 'a base-solubility-enhancing monomer; and, 'wherein the copolymer comprises the polymerization product of monomers comprisingwherein a film cast from the copolymer has an extinction coefficient, k, of 0.1 to 0.5 at a wavelength in the range of 150 to 400 nanometers.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the activating radiation comprises electron beam or extreme ultraviolet radiation.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the copolymer has a dispersity (W/M) of 1.05 to 1.2.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the out-of-band absorbing monomer comprises an unsubstituted or substituted C-Caryl group that is free of fluorine claim 1 , an unsubstituted or substituted C-Cheteroaryl group claim 1 , a C-Cdienone group claim 1 , or a combination thereof.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the base-solubility-enhancing monomer is selected from the group consisting of (meth)acrylate esters of poly(ethylene oxide)s claim 1 , (meth)acrylate esters of poly(propylene oxide)s claim 1 , base-labile (meth)acrylate esters claim 1 , (meth)acrylate esters substituted with a group having a ply of 2 to 12 claim 1 , and combinations thereof.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the base-solubility-enhancing monomer comprises a ( ...

METHOD FOR INSPECTING PANEL-BONDING SEMI-FINISHED PRODUCT

The present invention provides a method for inspecting a panel-bonding semi-finished product, which includes (1) placing a panel-bonding semi-finished product on a tray in a feeding station; (2) using a conveyance mechanism to convey the tray and the panel-bonding semi-finished product to a final display test station; (3) proceeding with a final display test on the panel-bonding semi-finished product and ending the test if the result fails and proceeding to the next step if the result passes; (4) conveying the tray and the panel-bonding semi-finished product to a final visual check station; (5) proceeding with final visual check for the panel-bonding semi-finished product that passes the final display test and if the result fails, ending the inspection and if the result passes, then proceeding to the next step; (6) conveying the tray and the panel-bonding semi-finished product to a quality inspection station; (7) proceeding with quality inspection on the panel-bonding semi-finished product; (8) conveying the tray and the panel-bonding semi-finished product to a packaging station; and (9) proceeding with packaging of the panel-bonding semi-finished product. 1. A method for inspecting a panel-bonding semi-finished product , comprising the following steps:(1) placing a panel-bonding semi-finished product on a tray in a feeding station;(2) using a conveyance mechanism to convey the tray and the panel-bonding semi-finished product placed thereon to a final display test station;(3) proceeding with a final display test on the panel-bonding semi-finished product and ending the test if the test fails and proceeding to the next step if the test passes;(4) using the conveyance mechanism to convey the tray and the panel-bonding semi-finished product positioned thereon and passing the final display test to a final visual check station;(5) proceeding with final visual check for the panel-bonding semi-finished product that passes the final display test and if the result of ...

Process and Apparatus for Sorting Reusable Pieces of Raw Material

The invention relates to a process and an apparatus for sorting reusable raw-material pieces () which are moved continually in conveying direction () by a transport means (), where the chemical composition of the raw-material pieces () is analyzed by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) and automated sorting of the raw-material pieces () is implemented depending on the composition found, where the raw-material pieces () in a first step are subjected to a plurality of first laser pulses () in order to remove surface coatings and/or contaminants from the raw-material pieces (), and in a second step, one or more second laser pulses () are directed at those locations of the raw-material pieces () from which the surface coatings and/or contaminants have been removed, with exposed material of the raw-material pieces () being converted by the second laser pulses () into a plasma, where the laser () used for the first and second laser pulses () is the same, and the area of the raw-material pieces () over which the first laser pulses () are moved and which is freed from surface coatings and/or contaminants is greater than the area of the raw-material pieces () that is embraced by the second laser pulses (), the focal diameter and the focal point of the laser beam being kept constant between the first and second laser pulses (). In this way it is possible, utilizing only one laser, to achieve undistorted analysis of the composition of the raw-material pieces () and to perform sorting in dependence on said analysis. 2557. The process as claimed in claim 1 , characterized in that wherein the area of the raw-material pieces () which is freed from at least one of said surface coatings and said contaminants and is greater by at least the focal diameter and positional tolerances than the area of the raw-material pieces () that is embraced by the second laser pulses ().356. The process as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the areas of the raw-material pieces () that are to be ...

Can body inspection apparatus and method

A can body inspection apparatus which prevents a drop in resistance to noise while enabling high speed inspection is provided. It is comprised of a light source control means ( 21, 22 ) for turning on the light source unit a predetermined number of times of two times or more at predetermined timings at which light can be taken in by the light-detection unit through the open end face of the can body W which is moving along the path of conveyance W, a detection signal integrating means 23 for integrating signal values based on the detection signal which is output from the light-detection unit 15 due to on operations of the light source unit 10, and a condition judging means 24 for using an integrated value which is obtained by the detection signal integrating means 23 as the basis to judge the condition of the can body.

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR ASCERTAINING SPECIMEN AND/OR SPECIMEN CONTAINER CHARACTERISTICS

An optical characterization apparatus for imaging a specimen container containing a specimen. The optical characterization apparatus includes a moveable hood configured to move between an open state and a closed state relative to a specimen container imaging location and having an interior, wherein when the moveable hood is in the closed state, a specimen container positioned at the specimen container imaging location is at least partially located within the interior of the moveable hood. One or more optical devices coupled to or within the interior of the moveable hood are positioned, when the moveable hood is in the closed state, to allow imaging of a specimen container positioned at the specimen container imaging location. Automated specimen testing systems, optical characterization apparatus, and methods of measuring characteristics of specimen containers are provided, as are other aspects. 1. A method of imaging a specimen container and/or a specimen in a specimen container , comprising:enclosing at least a portion of a specimen container with a moveable hood;rotating one or more optical devices located within the moveable hood at least partially around the specimen container; andgenerating image data of the specimen container using the one or more optical devices.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein enclosing the specimen container with a moveable hood comprises matching a first hull of the moveable hood to a second hull of the moveable hood.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein matching a first hull to a second hull comprises moving the first hull to a position wherein the first hull at least partially encloses the specimen container and moving the second hull to a position wherein the second hull at least partially encloses the specimen container.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein matching a first hull to a second hull comprises moving the first hull in a first direction and moving the second hull in a second direction claim 2 , the second direction being ...

Machine for the Inspection and Detection of Defects in Fruit Products, and Associated Methods

A method for inspecting and detecting flaws in spheroidal products involves supplying the product to a transport element formed of pairs of supporting pads, turning the product over by means of inverting the rotation of at least one of the supporting pads, lighting the product, for example, with ultraviolet light, taking images and processing these to determine whether the product is suitable or not. The machine includes transport elements made up of pairs of freely rotating supporting pads () placed at regular distances on a conveyor chain, elements for controlling the rotation of the supporting pads independently as these move along, lighting devices and image capturing devices, in which the rotation control items are friction guides () placed at the bottom and top which are acted on by drive tracks () joined to the supporting pads. 1. An automatic machine for inspecting and detecting flaws in spheroidal fresh fruit , as to quality evaluation for rot and external flaws , that can be integrated in a processing line of plants for the fruit , comprising:transport elements for the fruit which include a set of pairs of supporting pads, mounted on parallel axles which allow free and independent rotation of each supporting pad, in which each two pairs of supporting pads determine a housing for a product to be transported;at least one conveyor chain for the axles carrying the supporting pads, in which the supporting pads take up fixed positions at regular distances on the conveyor chain;a lighting device for the products along a display route therefor,a device for capturing images of the surface of the product; anda set of control items which determine rotation speed and direction of each of said supporting pads, and consequently movement of the products on the transport elements, the control items including drive tracks on the supporting pads, and longitudinally mounted friction guides on the frame with which each supporting pad is given a required movement, and the ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ANALYSIS OF SAMPLES USING LASER INDUCED BREAKDOWN SPECTROSCOPY

A system for optically scanning a region comprising a sample of which a chemical composition is to be determined, comprising: a pulsed laser source for emitting a pulsed laser beam; a focusing device for adjusting the position of the waist of the laser beam along an optical path of the laser beam; a deflector for adjusting a propagation direction of the laser beam to a given direction; a controller for varying, via the beam deflector, the propagation direction of the pulsed laser beam according to a predefined beam path and varying, via the focusing device, the given position of the waist of the laser beam along the optical path; and a photodetector for detecting light emitted by a plasma created when a given one of laser pulses has an irradiance is greater than a breakdown threshold, the detected light being indicative of the chemical composition of the sample. 1. A system for optically scanning a region comprising a sample of which a chemical composition is to be determined , comprising:a pulsed laser source for emitting a pulsed laser beam comprising a plurality of temporally ordered laser pulses;a focusing device for adjusting the position of the waist of the pulsed laser beam to a given position along the optical path of the pulsed laser beam;a beam deflector for adjusting a propagation direction of the pulsed laser beam to a desired scan direction;a controller being in communication with the focusing device and the beam deflector, the controller for varying, via the beam deflector, the propagation direction of the pulsed laser beam according to a predefined beam path and varying, via the focusing device, the given position of the waist of the pulsed laser beam along the optical path of the pulsed laser beam; anda photodetector for detecting light emitted by a plasma created when a given one of the laser pulses has an irradiance at a surface of the sample located on the optical path is greater than a breakdown threshold, the detected light being indicative of ...

AUTOMATIC OPTICAL INSPECTION SYSTEM AND OPERATING METHOD THEREOF

An automatic optical inspection system includes a first AOI machine and a second AOI machine, and the second AOI machine is electrically connected to the first AOI machine. The first AOI machine is configured to use a first resolution to inspect an object, so as to detect a possible defective region(s) of the object. The second AOI machine is configured to use a second resolution higher than the first resolution of the first AOI machine to inspect within the possible defective region(s) only, so as to detect whether there is/are any defect(s) within the possible defective region(s) of the object. 1. An automatic optical inspection (AOI) system , comprising:a first AOI machine configured to use a first resolution to inspect an object, so as to detect whether there is any possible defective region of the object; anda second AOI machine electrically connected to the first AOI machine, the second AOI machine configured to use a second resolution to inspect within the possible defective region only, so as to detect whether there is any defect within the possible defective region of the object, wherein the second resolution is higher than the first resolution.2. The automatic optical inspection system of claim 1 , wherein while there is the any defect within the possible defect region of the object claim 1 , the object is determined as an unacceptable object by the second AOI machine.3. The automatic optical inspection system of claim 1 , wherein while there is no any defect within the possible defect region of the object claim 1 , the object is determined as an acceptable object by the second AOI machine.4. The automatic optical inspection system of claim 1 , wherein while there is no any possible defective region of the object detected by the first AOI machine claim 1 , the object is allowed to pass through the second AOI machine directly without being inspected.5. The automatic optical inspection system of claim 1 , further comprising:a transportation device module ...

ASSEMBLY FOR HANDLING FRUIT AND VEGETABLE PRODUCTS

An assembly for handling fruit and vegetable products, includes first containment units for fruit and vegetable products that can move along a first conveyance and/or control line. The assembly further includes second containment units for horticultural products that can move along a second conveyance and/or control line, which is laterally adjacent and proximate to the first line. The assembly includes a plurality of elements for transferring the horticultural products; such elements are distributed at least along a part of the first line and are selectively actuatable by an electronic management and control unit, for the transfer of each product from a first unit to a respective second unit in a portion chosen from a plurality of different portions of the first line, upon the occurrence of a predefined condition of mutual alignment between the horticultural product to be transferred, which is conveyed by the first unit, and a second unit. 110-. (canceled)11. An assembly for handling fruit and vegetable products , the assembly comprises first containment units for horticultural products that can move along a first conveyance and/or a first control line and second containment units for fruit and vegetable products that can move along a second conveyance and/or a second control line , which is laterally adjacent and proximate to said first line , and further comprising a plurality of transfer means configured for transferring the horticultural products , said means being distributed at least along a part of said first line and being selectively actuatable by an electronic management and control unit , for the transfer of each product from a said first unit to a respective said second unit in a portion chosen from a plurality of different portions of said first line , upon the occurrence of a predefined condition of mutual alignment between the horticultural product to be transferred , which is conveyed by said first unit , and said second unit.12. The handling ...

Method and Apparatus for Examining Shipments

Embodiments of a method for examining shipments are disclosed herein. In the method, at least one shipment is arranged in an examination area. Radiation is emitted into the examination area for examining the at least one shipment by means of a radiation source. Radiation from the examination area is captured by means of a sensor device. The radiation source emits terahertz radiation, and the radiation source covers substantially the entire terahertz frequency spectrum from 1 terahertz to 6 terahertz.

NON-CONTACT EGG IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING EGG VIABILITY, AND ASSOCIATED METHOD

An egg identification system for determining viability of an avian egg is provided. Such a system includes an emitter assembly configured to emit electromagnetic radiation toward an egg. A detector assembly is axially aligned with the emitter assembly to detect electromagnetic radiation transmitted through the egg. The detector assembly is spaced-apart from the egg during operation thereof such that the detector assembly does not contact the egg. The detected electromagnetic radiation is used to generate an output signal. The output signal is processed to determine whether there exists a periodic variation or an aperiodic perturbation in an intensity of the electromagnetic radiation transmitted through the egg corresponding to action of a heart or embryo movement, wherein the existence of the periodic variation or aperiodic perturbation indicates that the egg is viable. An associated method is also provided. 1. An egg identification system for determining viability of an avian egg , the system comprising:a conveyor system configured to convey an egg flat containing a plurality of eggs;a plurality of emitter assemblies, each emitter assembly being configured to emit electromagnetic radiation toward one of the eggs conveyed in the egg flat, wherein the emitted electromagnetic radiation is frequency modulated;a plurality of detector assemblies axially aligned with a respective emitter assembly, each detector assembly being configured to detect the electromagnetic radiation transmitted through a respective egg, the detector assemblies being configured to distinguish the frequency of the modulated electromagnetic radiation in the electrical domain; anda processor configured to process an output signal of each detector assembly to determine whether the electromagnetic radiation transmitted through a respective egg as detected by each detector assembly is indicative of a viable or non-viable egg.2. An egg identification system according to claim 1 , wherein the ...

Detection Method And Detection Device

A light irradiation angle is set with respect to a first surface so as to detect only either first reflected light or second reflected light. Then, light is emitted from a light irradiation part at the set irradiation angle while a detection chip is kept in motion, either the first reflected light or the second reflected light is detected by a reflected light detection part, and positional information of the detection chip is acquired on the basis of the result of the detection of the first or second reflected light. The detection chip is moved, on the basis of the acquired positional information, to a detection position where detection of a substance to be detected is performed. While the detection chip is kept at the detection position, detection of the substance to be detected is performed through detection of sample light. 1. A detection method that uses a detection device , the detection device including:a chip holder configured to hold a detection chip including a dielectric member having a first surface, a second surface and a third surface, wherein the dielectric member is transparent to light and a detection object substance is captured on a front surface side of the second surface;a moving stage configured to move the chip holder;a light irradiation section configured to emit light toward the first surface of the dielectric member of the detection chip held by the chip holder, and to change an irradiation angle of the light emitted toward the first surface;a reflection light detection section configured to detect light that is emitted from the light irradiation section and is reflected by the dielectric member; anda sample light detection section configured to detect sample light that is generated by irradiation with light from the light irradiation section, the sample light being generated in accordance with an amount of the detection object substance captured by the detection chip, the detection method comprising:setting the irradiation angle of light ...

Automated aero aluminum scrap sorting system based on laser induced breakdown (libs) technique

A fully automatic online aero aluminum sorting and recovery system based on LIBS (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) technology, which belongs to the field of aero aluminum sorting and recovery technology, and is suitable for online sorting, detection and recovery of large batch of aero aluminum. The fully automatic online aero aluminum sorting system based on LIBS technology provided in the present invention consists of six portions: a sample feeding unit (1), a surface treatment unit (2), a material positioning unit (3), a LIBS analysis and detection unit (4), a transfer unit (5) and a sorting and recovery unit (6). The system according to the invention can be used to realize the automatic online detection, sorting and recovery of aero aluminum, and the system does not have requirements on the surface condition of the recovered aero aluminum samples. The sorting accuracy rate is greater than 90% and the sorting rate is not less than 1 block per second.

Belt Tensioner without Tension Roller Removal on X-Ray Machines

Disclosed is an apparatus including a frame configured to support a conveyor system having a conveyor belt. The apparatus can include a carriage configured to support a conveyor tension roller, the carriage being fastened to the frame to allow the carriage to be transitioned to and from an engaging position and a disengaging position. The engaging position can be a position at which the conveyor tension roller will contact with the conveyor belt when installed, and the disengaging position can be a position at which the conveyor tension roller will not making contact with the conveyor belt when installed. 1. An apparatus , comprising:a frame configured to support a conveyor system having a conveyor belt; anda carriage configured to support a conveyor tension roller, the carriage being fastened to the frame to allow the carriage to be transitioned to and from an engaging position and a disengaging position; anda motor configured to actuate the carriage to and from the engaging position and the disengaging position;wherein the engaging position is a position at which the conveyor tension roller will contact with the conveyor belt when installed, and the disengaging position is a position at which the conveyor tension roller will not make contact with the conveyor belt when installed.2. The apparatus recited in claim 1 , wherein the frame is configured to support an inspection unit.4. The apparatus recited in claim 3 , wherein the inspection unit is a product inspection apparatus.5. The apparatus recited in claim 4 , wherein the product inspection apparatus is configured to utilize any one or combination of visible light radiation claim 4 , infrared radiation claim 4 , ultraviolet radiation claim 4 , x-ray radiation claim 4 , electromagnetic radiation claim 4 , or gamma ray radiation.6. The apparatus recited in claim 3 , wherein:the conveyor system includes a conveyor belt drive component;the engaging position is selected to impose a tensioning force on the conveyor ...

HATCHING EGG INSPECTION APPARATUS AND HATCHING EGG INSPECTING METHOD

A hatching egg inspection apparatus includes: a plurality of light emitter, the light emitter being disposed two dimensionally at prescribed positions; light receiver, which are provided in a one-to-one relationship with the light emitter and each of which receives light from the corresponding light emitter; and an egg container, which is for arraying in advance a hatching egg between each of the light emitter and the light receiver corresponding thereto. Each hatching egg is inspected by the corresponding light receiver that receives, among the lights from all the light emitter, transmitted light that transmitted through the interior of the hatching egg. When one light emitter of the plurality of light emitter is emitting light, other of the light emitter within a prescribed range centered on the one light emitter do not emit light. 1. A hatching egg inspection apparatus comprising:a plurality of light emitters disposed two dimensionally at prescribed positions;light receivers provided in a one-to-one relationship with the light emitters, each of the light receivers being configured to receive light from the corresponding light emitter; andan egg container configured to array in advance a hatching egg between each of the light emitters and the light receivers corresponding thereto; wherein each hatching egg is inspected by the corresponding light receiver that receives, among the lights from all the light emitters, transmitted light that transmitted through the interior of the hatching egg, whereinof the plurality of light emitters, when one of the light emitters is emitting light, other of the light emitters within a prescribed range centered on the one light emitters do not emit light.2. A hatching egg inspection apparatus according to claim 1 , whereineach light receiver receives the transmitted light, the transmitted light being time varying, related to biological activity inside the corresponding hatching egg.3. A hatching egg inspection apparatus according to ...

INSPECTION SYSTEM

An inspection system is configured for use with a conveyer apparatus including carrier bars. Each carrier bar conveys pellet-shaped articles along a predetermined path. The inspection system includes at least one camera unit for sensing a predetermined characteristic of the pellet-shaped articles, a removal unit, and a controller. The removal unit, downstream from the at least one camera unit, removes selected pellet-shaped article(s) from the carrier bar(s) depending on whether the characteristic is sensed by the at least one camera unit. The controller is in communication with the at least one camera unit and the removal unit. The controller provides a signal to the removal unit in accordance with the sensed characteristic. The removal unit includes a rotatable ejection drum having extended vacuum nozzles along its length, equal to the number of articles conveyed in each carrier bar. Each vacuum nozzle selectively removes article(s) from the carrier bar(s) by suction. 1. An apparatus comprising:at least one row of product receiving pockets, each pocket being structured to convey a pellet-shaped article along a path;at least one camera unit configured to sense a predetermined characteristic of the plurality of pellet-shaped articles;a removal unit, downstream from the at least one camera unit, structured to remove at least a selected one of the plurality of pellet-shaped articles from at least a selected one of the pockets depending on whether the predetermined characteristic is sensed by the at least one camera unit; anda controller in communication with the at least one camera unit and the removal unit, the controller providing a signal to the removal unit in accordance with the predetermined characteristic sensed by the at least one camera unit,wherein the removal unit includes a rotatable ejection drum having a plurality of extended vacuum nozzles along its length associated with the number of articles conveyed in each row, each vacuum nozzle structured to ...

Method and system for optically inspecting headed manufactured parts

A method and system for optically inspecting parts are provided wherein the system includes a part transfer subsystem including a transfer mechanism adapted to receive and support a part at a loading station and to transfer the supported part by a split belt conveyor so that the part travels along a first path which extends from the loading station to an inspection station at which the part has a predetermined position and orientation for inspection. An illumination assembly simultaneously illuminates a plurality of exterior side surfaces of the part with a plurality of separate beams of radiation. A telecentric lens and detector assembly forms an optical image of at least a portion of each of the illuminated side surfaces of the part and detects the optical images. A processor processes the detected optical images to obtain a plurality of views of the part which are angularly spaced about the part. In an alternative embodiment the method and system for optically inspecting headed manufactured parts employ an inclined split track to cause the part to traverse an inspection station by gravity feed. The part is inspected for conformity to dimensional and visual standards and sorted under control of a processor based on images of the part obtained from occluded light and reflected light while the part is within the inspection station.

DYNAMIC COLOR FILTER MACROSCOPIC INSPECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD

This application provides a dynamic color filter (CF) macroscopic inspection system and method. The dynamic CF macroscopic inspection system includes: a color film coating unit, configured to coat color filters on a CF glass substrate; a color film developing unit, configured to develop the CF glass substrate; a color film baking unit, configured to bake the CF glass substrate; a color film macroscopic inspection unit, configured to inspect a visual macroscopic abnormality of the CF glass substrate; a color film colorimeter unit, configured to perform a chrominance detection on the CF glass substrate; and at least one conveyor belt, including a first conveyor belt and a second conveyor belt, connected between the color film coating unit, the color film developing unit, the color film baking unit, the color film macroscopic inspection unit, and the color film colorimeter unit, and configured to transport the CF glass substrate. 1. A dynamic color filter (CF) macroscopic inspection system , comprising:a color film coating unit, configured to coat color filters on a CF glass substrate;a color film developing unit, configured to develop the CF glass substrate;a color film baking unit, configured to bake the CF glass substrate;a color film macroscopic inspection unit, configured to inspect a visual macroscopic abnormality of the CF glass substrate;a color film colorimeter unit, configured to perform a chrominance detection on the CF glass substrate; andat least one conveyor belt, comprising a first conveyor belt and a second conveyor belt, connected between the color film coating unit, the color film developing unit, the color film baking unit, the color film macroscopic inspection unit, and the color film colorimeter unit, and configured to transport the CF glass substrate.2. The dynamic CF macroscopic inspection system according to claim 1 , further comprising: an exposure machine unit claim 1 , connected to the conveyor belt and configured to expose the CF glass ...

OIL DETECTION PROCESS AND APPARATUS

A process for detecting oil or lubricant contamination in a manufactured product, the process comprising adding a fluorescent taggant to oils or lubricants contained in processing machinery for said product, conveying said product past an infrared detection apparatus, irradiating said product with infrared radiation from said detection apparatus as it passes the detection apparatus, and detecting infrared radiation emitted from said irradiated product. 1. A process for detecting oil or lubricant contamination in a tobacco product , the process comprising:adding a fluorescent taggant to oils or lubricants contained in tobacco processing machinery;conveying tobacco product past an infrared detection apparatus;irradiating said tobacco product with infrared radiation from said detection apparatus as it passes the detection apparatus; anddetecting infrared radiation emitted from said irradiated tobacco product.2. The process of claim 1 , wherein said taggant is a Stokes-shifting taggant claim 1 , which absorbs infrared radiation at a first wavelength and fluoresces at a second wavelength claim 1 , different from said first wavelength.3. The process of claim 2 , wherein said first wavelength is about 805 nanometers and said second wavelength is about 840 nanometers.4. The process of claim 1 , wherein said tobacco product is a cigarette rod wrapped in paper.5. The process of claim 1 , wherein said tobacco product is a processed tobacco and said infrared detection device is located upstream of a packaging process.6. The process of claim 1 , wherein the taggant is oil soluble.7. The process of claim 6 , wherein the taggant is an Indocyanine Green complex.8. The process of claim 1 , wherein the taggant is added to said oils or lubricants at a concentration of between about 10 ppm and 100 ppm.9. The process of claim 8 , wherein the taggant is added to said oils or lubricants at a concentration of about 50 ppm.10. The process of claim 1 , wherein a detection level of said ...