WO2021130006A1

WO2021130006A1 - Detection device for a conveying system

Info

Publication number: WO2021130006A1
Application number: PCT/EP2020/084878
Authority: WO
Inventors: Reiner Krapf; Jens Hoffmann; Andreas Graessl; Carolin SCHLAWNE
Original assignee: Robert Bosch Gmbh
Priority date: 2019-12-23
Filing date: 2020-12-07
Publication date: 2021-07-01
Also published as: DE102019220506A1; EP4081788A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a detection device, in particular a weighing device, for a conveying system (12a), in particular for a conveying system (12a) of a filling plant, the conveying system (12a) being intended at least for transporting a product to be conveyed (14a; 14d), which in particular has been divided up, along a conveying path (16a; 16b; 16c; 16d). According to the invention, the detection device has at least one magnetic resonance unit (18a; 18b; 18c; 18d) to detect a resonance signal of the product to be conveyed (14a; 14d) while the product to be conveyed (14a; 14d) is transported along the conveying path (16a; 16b; 16c; 16d).

Description

description

Detection device for a conveyor system

State of the art

A detection device for a conveying system, in particular for a conveying system of a filling plant, has already been proposed, the conveying system being provided at least for transporting an, in particular subdivided, conveyed good along a conveying path.

Disclosure of the invention

The invention is based on a detection device, in particular a weighing device, for a conveyor system, in particular for a conveyor system of a bottling plant, the conveyor system being provided at least for transporting a particularly divided material along a conveyor path.

It is proposed that the detection device comprises at least one magnetic resonance unit for detecting a resonance signal, in particular for detecting the quantity, of the conveyed item during the transport of the conveyed item along the conveying path. “Provided” should be understood to mean in particular specially set up, specially programmed, specially designed and / or specially equipped. The fact that an object is provided for a specific function should be understood in particular to mean that the object fulfills and / or executes this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state. For example, the conveyor system is part of a filling plant, a storage system, a production line or the like. The conveyor system is preferably automated, in particular fully automated, trained det. In particular, the detection device is intended to be integrated into an automated operation of the conveyor system. In particular, the detection device is provided to automatically detect the resonance signal, in particular without the intervention of an operator, and in particular to evaluate it. In particular, the detection device can be designed in a modular manner for an, in particular subsequent, arrangement on the conveyor system and / or for integration during assembly of the conveyor system. The conveyor system is preferably designed as a continuous conveyor, in particular as a belt conveyor, link belt conveyor, roller conveyor or the like. The conveyor system is particularly preferably designed as a container conveyor, in particular when the conveyed material is a fluid, a colloid, a suspension, a viscous mass, a bulk material or the like. In particular, the conveyor system is provided for transporting containers, in particular vials, bottles, cans, boxes or the like, in which the conveyed goods are filled and / or are filled along the conveying path. Alternatively or additionally, the conveyor system comprises transport containers which are provided for transport to receive a, in particular loose, part or piece of the material to be conveyed, and / or a large number of container holders, in particular wel che for transport in each case to a deposit, hanging , Hanging, around grabbing, sucking, clamping or the like at least one, in particular exactly one, container are provided.

The magnetic resonance unit is preferably provided to carry out a nuclear magnetic resonance measurement (NMR measurement). Alternatively or additionally, the magnetic resonance unit is provided to carry out an electron spin resonance measurement (ESR measurement). In particular, an NMR measurement and / or an ESR measurement can include a spectroscopic measurement, a relaxation time measurement or further sequence protocols known per se to the person skilled in the art. The magnetic resonance unit preferably comprises at least one magnetic field generator, in particular for generating a static magnetic field, in particular for the duration of at least one measuring operation, in particular for specifying a quantization axis. In particular, the magnetic field generator for the static magnetic field can be designed as a permanent magnet or as an electromagnet. The magnetic resonance unit preferably comprises at least one further magnetic field generator, in particular for one Sending and / or receiving an alternating magnetic field, in particular in the high-frequency range and / or in the microwave range, in particular to stimulate an atomic resonance of the conveyed material. Preferably, the white direct magnetic field generator is designed as a magnetic coil. Depending on the application, the further magnetic field generator can have a different design known per se to the person skilled in the art for antennas in the high frequency range and / or microwave range, such as horn radiators, printed circuit board antennas, Vivaldi antennas or the like. The magnetic resonance unit preferably comprises at least one receiving antenna for receiving an alternating magnetic field, in particular the resonance signal from the conveyed item. The receiving antenna is preferably constructed identically to, particularly preferably identical to, the further magnetic field generator. Alternatively, the receiving antenna is designed separately from the further magnetic field generator.

The detection device preferably comprises at least one computing unit, in particular for evaluating the resonance signal. A “computing unit” is to be understood as meaning, in particular, a unit with an information input, information processing and information output. Before geous, the computing unit has at least one processor, a memory, input and output means, further electrical components, an operating program, control routines, control routines and / or calculation routines. The computing unit is preferably provided to record a quantity, particularly preferably a mass, and / or a quality, in particular a chemical composition and / or an impurity, of the conveyed material in, in particular in each, individual container and / or in, in particular in each, individual Transport container to determine. In particular, the magnetic resonance unit is provided to carry out an NMR measurement and / or an ESR measurement during, in particular continuous, transport of the material to be conveyed along the transport path. In particular, the containers can be in an open or closed state during the NMR measurement and / or ESR measurement. Optionally, the detection device includes a data interface that is provided for forwarding the evaluated resonance signal to the conveyor system so that a container-specific and / or transport container-specific function can be performed by the conveyor system as a function of the measurement, for example a Sorting the containers and / or the transport containers into different categories, in particular sorting out individual containers and / or transport containers, labeling the containers and / or the transport containers with an evaluation of the resonance signal, post-processing individual containers or transport containers or the like. In particular, the data interface can be cable-bound and / or wireless, in particular radio-wave-bound, designed.

Due to the configuration of the detection device according to the invention, a contactless detection of a quantity and / or quality can advantageously be achieved. In particular, a detection that is advantageously insensitive to environmental influences, in particular vibrations and air currents, can be carried out. In particular, an advantageously precise detection can be carried out. In particular, interference by the detection device on a laminar air flow to a dust protection of the, in particular open, containers and / or the transport containers can advantageously be kept low. In the case of a mass determination from the resonance signal, a tare measurement for determining the mass of the empty container can advantageously be dispensed with.

It is further proposed that the detection device comprises an autonomous transport unit which forms a section of the conveying path to which the magnetic resonance unit is assigned, in particular in / on which the magnetic resonance unit is arranged. For a differentiation, the entire subsection of the conveying path that is implemented by the detection device is referred to as the detection section. The transport unit preferably comprises at least one transport element, in particular an autonomous transport container and / or an autonomous container holder, in particular for transporting the goods to be conveyed along the detection path. The transport unit preferably comprises a multiplicity of transport elements. The transport unit preferably comprises at least one transfer station for transferring the conveyed goods from the conveyor system to the detection device, in particular from one of the transport containers of the conveyor system to one of the autonomous transport containers and / or from one of the container holders of the conveyor system to one of the autonomous container holders. In particular, the magnetic resonance unit is provided to detect the resonance signal of the conveyed item, while the conveyed goods are in one of the autonomous transport containers and / or on one of the autonomous container holders. The transport unit preferably comprises at least one return station for transferring the goods to be conveyed from the detection device to the conveying system. “Autonomous” is to be understood here in particular as being controllable independently of the conveyor system. At least one transport speed of the transport unit, in particular the speed at which one of the packs and / or one of the transport containers is transported along the detection path, is preferably adjustable independently of the transport speed of the conveyor system. Preferably, a stitch of the transport unit, in particular a mean distance between two consecutive packs and / or transport containers on the detection path, can be set independently of the stitch of the conveyor system. The detection device preferably comprises a control or regulating unit which controls a transport, in particular the transport speed and / or the stitch, by means of the transport unit. A “control and / or regulating unit” is to be understood as meaning, in particular, a unit with at least one control electronics. “Control electronics” should be understood to mean, in particular, a unit with a processor unit and with a memory unit and with an operating program stored in the memory unit. The control or regulating unit is preferably provided to match at least one throughput speed, in particular a number of packs and / or transport containers per unit of time, of the detection device to a transport speed of the conveyor system. As a result of the configuration according to the invention, the conveyed material can be transported at a transport speed that is advantageously matched to the magnetic resonance unit, in particular with an advantageously uniform movement of the conveyed material. In particular, a detection device can be provided which is compatible with an advantageously large number of existing systems. In particular, the detection device can also be used in conveyor systems that have metallic and / or magnetic components. In particular, the detection device can advantageously be designed independently of a specific configuration of the conveyor system, for example a width of the conveyor path. It is further proposed that the magnetic resonance unit has at least one, in particular at least one of the aforementioned magnetic field generators, which is provided to at least partially encompass the conveying path. The magnetic field generator and / or the further magnetic field generator preferably encompass / encompass the detection path at least partially. In particular, the magnetic field generator and / or the additional magnetic field generator encompass / encompass the detection path in a plane perpendicular to the conveying path. In particular, the magnetic field generator is designed as a closed and / or open tunnel on at least one side, through which the conveying path, in particular the detection section, leads. In particular, when the resonance signal is detected in the open state of the container and / or the autonomous transport container, the magnetic field generator, especially when configured as a permanent magnet, encompasses the section of the conveying path preferably in a U-shape, in particular to flow through an opening of the container / or the autonomous transport container with the laminar air flow. In particular, when the resonance signal is detected when the container and / or the autonomous transport container are closed, the magnetic field generator, especially when configured as a permanent magnet, preferably completely surrounds the section of the conveying path in at least one plane. The magnetic field generator preferably has a Halbach magnet arrangement when the resonance signal is detected in the closed state of the container and / or the autonomous transport container. Preferably, in one embodiment of the magnetic field generator and / or the further magnetic field generator as a magnetic coil, in particular as a solenoid coil, this is arranged wound around the detection path. Due to the configuration according to the invention, an advantageously homogeneous magnetic field with an advantageously high magnetic field strength can be achieved on the conveyed material on the detection path.

It is also proposed that at least one, in particular at least one of the aforementioned, magnetic field generator of the magnetic resonance unit is arranged on a section of the conveying path which runs at least essentially parallel to a maximum longitudinal extension of a container of the conveyed goods. In particular, the magnetic field generator and / or the further magnetic field generator are / is adapted in shape and size to the shape and size of the container and / or autonomous transport container. Preferably the other is Magnetic field generator arranged within the magnetic field generator. In particular, a maximum distance between two opposing inner walls of the magnetic field generator and / or the further magnetic field generator is adapted to the maximum dimensions of the containers and / or the autonomous transport containers in a plane perpendicular to the detection path. In particular, a maximum distance of one of the containers and / or one of the autonomous transport containers, which is located within the magnetic field generator and / or the further magnetic field generator, to an inner wall of the magnetic field generator and / or the further magnetic field generator is at least smaller than a maximum extent of the container and / or the autonomous transport container in this direction, in particular just large enough to ensure a friction-free and / or shock-free transport of the container and / or the autonomous transport container by the magnetic field generator and / or the further magnetic field generator. The magnetic field generator preferably comprises a detection sub-area for detecting the resonance signal, which in particular extends along the same sub-section of the detection path as the further magnetic field generator. The magnetic field generator preferably comprises a partial polarization region, which is arranged in front of the further magnetic field generator, in particular with respect to a transport direction, and is provided in particular for polarizing the material to be conveyed. In particular, the partial areas of the magnetic field generator can be arranged next to one another or separately from one another. For example, the magnetic field generator, in particular the detection sub-area of the magnetic field generator, and / or the wider magnetic field generator, in particular in the case of tall and thin containers and / or autonomous transport containers, the maximum length of which is transported, in particular, aligned parallel to the weight force, such as vials, bottles or the like, arranged on a section of the detection path which runs along the vertical. For example, the magnetic field generator, in particular the detection sub-area of the magnetic field generator, and / or the wider magnetic field generator, especially in the case of flat containers, the maximum length of which is particularly perpendicular to the weight, such as bowls, tubs or the like, is arranged on a section of the detection path that runs along the horizontal. The configuration according to the invention enables an advantageously high fill factor for the magnetic field generator to be achieved. In particular, an advantageously homogeneous nes magnetic field can be achieved with an advantageously high magnetic field strength on the conveyed material on the detection path. In particular, an advantageously high measurement accuracy of the magnetic resonance unit can be achieved.

It is further proposed that the magnetic resonance unit has at least one adapter base body with at least two slots for receiving a different magnetic field generator of the magnetic resonance unit. In particular, the further magnetic field generator is designed as a plug-in element, which can be arranged in particular in one of the slots. The further magnetic field generator designed as a plug-in element preferably comprises electrically separate conductor loops which, when arranged in one of the plug-in positions, can be electrically connected to one another via the adapter base body, and in particular thereby form a magnetic coil. In particular, the adapter body is provided to accommodate differently designed versions of the wide Ren magnetic field generator. In particular, the versions of the further magnetic field generator differ in their spatial dimensioning and in particular the free space around the detection path enclosed between the adapter base plate and the plug element. Due to the configuration according to the invention, a design of the detection device can be adapted to a design of the conveyor system, in particular the container, advantageously simply and advantageously quickly, with particularly advantageously prefabricated series components. In particular, the detection device can advantageously be converted quickly and easily, for example when the size of the containers of the conveyor system is changed.

In addition, it is proposed that at least one, in particular the additional magnetic field generator already mentioned, of the magnetic resonance unit is movably supported by means of a pivot axis. In particular, the further magnetic field generator has at least one assembly half-shell and at least one further assembly half-shell. In particular, the assembly half-shell is movably supported with respect to the further assembly half-shell by means of the pivot axis. In particular, the further magnetic field generator is designed to be able to be opened and closed by means of the pivot axis. In particular, the assembly half-shells each comprise conductor loops that are separate from one another. Optionally, the conductor loops of the assembly half-shells can be attached by arranging the assembly half-shells. nander can be electrically connected to one another, for example via plug contacts and in particular thereby form a magnetic coil. Alternatively, the conductor loops of the assembly half-shells are also formed separately from one another when the assembly half-shells are arranged on one another. In particular, the conductor loops arranged separately from one another form a resonant group antenna, in particular inductively and / or capacitively coupled. Due to the configuration according to the invention, the further magnetic generator can advantageously simply be exchanged. In particular, the further magnetic generator can advantageously be easily adapted to a container size. In particular, low costs arise in front of geous when retrofitting the conveyor system. In particular, the detection device can be adapted to a large number of existing systems by means of prefabricated components.

It is further proposed that the detection unit has a translation unit for generating a relative movement between at least one, in particular one of the aforementioned, magnetic field generator of the magnetic resonance unit and at least one container of the conveyed material transversely to the conveying path. In particular, the translation unit comprises an actuator for generating the relative movement at least substantially perpendicular to the conveyor path. The term “essentially perpendicular” is intended to define in particular an alignment of a direction relative to a reference direction, the direction and the reference direction, particularly in a projection plane, including an angle of 90 ° and the angle a maximum deviation of, in particular, smaller than 8 °, advantageously less than 5 ° and particularly advantageously less than 2 °. In particular, the translation unit is provided to move one of the containers and the further magnetic field generator relative to one another. In particular, the translation unit is intended to put the further magnetic field generator over one of the containers and / or to introduce one of the containers into the further magnetic field generator. The magnetic resonance unit preferably comprises a multiplicity of further magnetic resonance units which are each provided for receiving at least one, in particular precisely one, container. The further magnetic field generators are preferably arranged parallel to one another, in particular on a rake-shaped structural element of the translation unit. Optionally, the translation unit can be loaded parallel to the conveying path, in particular the detection path. movably mounted, in particular for a synchronous movement of the further magnetic field generator with one of the containers, in particular during the detection of the resonance signal. Alternatively, the further magnetic field generators are arranged on a turret or an endless belt of the magnetic resonance unit, in particular for a synchronous movement with the containers. Due to the design according to the invention, the further magnetic field generator can advantageously be kept small. In particular, a fill factor, which in particular describes the ratio of the container size to the receiving volume of the further magnetic field generator, can advantageously be kept large. In particular, an advantageously precise NRM measurement and / or ESR measurement can be carried out on an individual container.

It is further proposed that the autonomous transport unit comprises at least one receiving element for receiving the conveyed item, in which at least one magnetic field generator of the magnetic resonance unit is integrated. In particular, the receiving element is designed as one of the autonomous container holders and / or one of the autonomous transport containers. In particular, the further magnetic field generator and / or the receiving antenna are / is embedded in the receiving element and / or fastened to the receiving element. The receiving element preferably comprises an electrical contact element, in particular for contacting the further magnetic field generator and / or the receiving antenna at a location where the resonance signal is detected. Alternatively, the magnetic resonance unit comprises an inductive coupling element for wireless coupling of the further magnetic field generator and / or the receiving antenna. The configuration according to the invention advantageously makes it possible to dispense with an independently designed further magnetic field generator. In particular, an advantageously space-saving magnetic resonance unit can be provided. In particular, a distance between the magnetic field generator and the material to be conveyed can be kept relatively small.

It is further proposed that the detection device comprises at least one contactless temperature sensor unit and at least one, in particular the already mentioned, computing unit for compensating for a temperature dependency of the resonance signal of the magnetic resonance unit. The temperature sensor unit is preferably provided to measure a temperature of the material to be conveyed in to detect one, in particular in each, individual container and / or autonomous transport container. As an alternative or in addition, the temperature sensor unit is provided for detecting an ambient temperature and / or a temperature of the conveyed goods before they are filled into individual containers and / or transport containers. For example, the computing unit is provided to use the detected temperature to determine a correction value for an effect of the temperature on the maximum magnetizability of the conveyed material. For example, the computing unit is provided to use the detected temperature to determine a correction value for an effect of the temperature on a current gas-liquid ratio of the conveyed goods, in particular in closed containers and / or autonomous transport containers. For example, the computing unit is provided to use the detected temperature to determine a correction value for an effect of the temperature on relaxation times of the conveyed good. In particular, the computing unit is provided to normalize the resonance signal by means of the correction values before evaluating the resonance signal, for example to determine a mass of the conveyed material. The temperature sensor unit is preferably provided to detect the temperature immediately before, during and / or immediately after the detection of the resonance signal. Alternatively, the computing unit is provided to simulate a temperature of the conveyed material at the time of the detection of the resonance signal from a previous and / or subsequent detection of the temperature of the conveyed goods, the containers, the transport containers and / or an environment of the detection device. The configuration according to the invention makes it possible to achieve an advantageously precise and advantageously reproducible detection and evaluation of the resonance signal. In particular, a risk of a misinterpretation of the resonance signal due to temperature fluctuations can advantageously be kept low.

It is also proposed that the temperature sensor unit be designed independently of the magnetic resonance unit. In particular, the temperature sensor unit comprises at least one temperature sensor element that is different from the magnetic resonance unit. In particular, the temperature sensor unit comprises a temperature sensor element which is based on detection of electromagnetic waves in the optical range and / or in the infrared Area based on temperature detection. For example, the temperature sensor unit comprises an optical pyrometer, in particular an infrared thermometer and / or a microbolometer. For example, the temperature sensor unit comprises a thermal camera. For example, the temperature sensor unit comprises a laser for measuring the gas content in a closed container and / or an autonomous transport container, in particular for carrying out a headspace moisture analysis. Due to the configuration according to the invention, the temperature of the material to be conveyed can advantageously be determined directly and reliably. In particular, the temperature can be determined with advantageously little computing power.

It is further proposed that the temperature sensor unit be movably mounted for tracking a container of the conveyed item. For example, the temperature sensor unit is pivotably mounted. For example, the temperature sensor unit is mounted displaceably parallel to the conveying path, in particular to the detection path. In particular, the detection device comprises at least one actuator for moving the temperature sensor unit. In particular, the control or regulating unit of the detection device is intended to keep a single measuring spot of the temperature sensor unit stationary on an individual container and / or an autonomous transport container, in particular during a movement of the container and / or the autonomous transport container along the conveying path, in particular the detection distance. Optionally, the temperature sensor unit comprises a multiplicity of temperature sensor elements, which in particular are each held stationary with respect to a container and / or an autonomous transport container. For example, the temperature sensor elements, in particular parallel to one another, are arranged on a rake-like structural element of the temperature sensor unit, which is in particular arranged movably parallel to the conveying path. Optionally, the temperature sensor unit comprises at least one temperature sensor element which is arranged on a filling needle of the conveyor system, in particular for a common movement with the filling needle. As an alternative or in addition to a movable mounting of the temperature sensor unit, the temperature sensor unit comprises at least one spatially resolving temperature sensor element, in particular an infrared line camera, the independent detection windows of which are aligned along the conveying path. The inventive design design, a temperature of the material to be conveyed can advantageously be tracked. In particular, an advantageously long measurement time for the temperature can be achieved. In particular, the temperature can advantageously be determined precisely and reliably. In particular, the risk of a measurement of a temperature anomaly can advantageously be kept low.

It is further proposed that the computing unit includes a memory element with instructions for compensating for the temperature dependency on the basis of the resonance signal of the magnetic resonance unit. In particular, the magnetic resonance unit is designed at the same time as a temperature sensor unit. In particular, the computing unit is intended to evaluate phase information and / or magnetization and relaxation times of the resonance signal and, in particular, to close a temperature, in particular a temperature change, of the conveyed material due to a change in the parameters mentioned. In particular, the memory element comprises instructions for carrying out a monitoring of a shift in the proton resonance frequencies (PRF), in which in particular a phase from a free induction decay (FID) and / or a Carr-Purcell-Meiboom-Gill sequence (CPMG) is obtained. Alternatively or additionally, the memory element comprises instructions for monitoring a change in the magnetization and the relaxation times, in particular using numerical models of the conveyed material based on test series. In particular, the computing unit is provided to compensate for an effect of the temperature-dependent phase or the temperature-dependent magnetization and the temperature-dependent relaxation times to a strength of the resonance signal. In particular, the arithmetic unit is intended to determine a change in the resonance signal for an evaluation of the quantity or quality of the conveyed material given a constant phase or magnetization and relaxation times. In particular, the computing unit is provided to trace back a change in the resonance signal to a fluctuating temperature in the case of fluctuating phase or magnetization and relaxation times and, in particular, to compensate for it before an evaluation of the quantity or quality. Due to the configuration according to the invention, independent temperature sensors can advantageously be dispensed with. In particular, a low-cost and / or space-saving detection device can be provided in front of some components. In particular, the temperature can advantageously be can be recorded directly at the time of the NMR measurement and / or the ESR measurement.

In addition, a method for detecting, in particular weighing, a conveyed item by means of a detection device according to the invention is proposed. The transfer station of the transport unit preferably removes the conveyed goods, in particular as a container, from the conveying system in at least one transfer step of the method. In particular, the transfer station positions the conveyed goods as a container in one of the autonomous container holders of the detection device or loosely in one of the autonomous transport containers of the detection device. In particular, the transport unit transports the goods to be conveyed along the detection path in the direction of the magnetic resonance unit. In a pre-magnetization step of the method, the transport unit transports the goods to be conveyed through the partial polarization area of the magnetic field generator, in particular to magnetize the goods to be conveyed. In a sending step of the method, the transport unit preferably transports the goods to be conveyed into the sub-region of the magnetic field generator and at the same time to the further magnetic field generator. For example, the transport unit transports the binding and / or the autonomous transport container along a vertically arranged section of the detection path through the additional magnetic field generator. Alternatively, the further magnetic field generator moves along with the conveyed goods along the detection path. For example, the translation unit pushes one of the containers into the further magnetic field generator arranged on a revolver. For example, the translation unit slips the additional magnetic field generator over one of the containers. In particular, the further magnetic field generator sends in the sending step according to a sequence protocol known per se for an NMR measurement and / or an ESR measurement alternating magnetic fields on the conveyed goods, in particular while the conveyed good, in particular a single container, is at a most sensitive point of the wider magnetic field generator is located. In particular, the receiving antenna, in particular the further magnetic field generator, detects the resonance signal from the conveyed item, in particular as a response to the emitted alternating magnetic field, in a detection step of the method. In particular, a further return station transfers the conveyed goods to the conveyor system in a return step of the method. The temperature sensor unit preferably detects in at least one temperature detection step, a temperature of the material to be conveyed. In particular, the temperature detection step can be carried out on any section of the detection path. In particular, if the temperature detection step is not carried out at the same time as the transmission step and / or the detection step, the temperature sensor unit detects a temperature of the container and / or of the autonomous transport container. In particular, in an evaluation step of the method, the computing unit determines the temperature of the conveyed material at the time of the sending step and / or the detection step. In particular, in the evaluation step, the computing unit corrects the detected resonance signal as a function of the temperature of the conveyed material. In the evaluation step, the computing unit preferably determines a mass, in particular a total mass, of the material to be conveyed in one of the containers and / or in one of the autonomous transport containers from the strength of the resonance signal. Alternatively or additionally, the computing unit determines a chemical composition of the conveyed item from the resonance signal, in particular the concentration or absolute amount of at least one component of the conveyed item. The embodiment of the method according to the invention can advantageously achieve a contactless detection of a quantity and / or quality. In the case of a mass determination from the resonance signal, a tare measurement for determining the mass of the empty container can advantageously be dispensed with.

The detection device according to the invention and / or the method according to the invention should / should not be restricted to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the detection device according to the invention and / or the method according to the invention can have a number that differs from a number of individual elements, components and units as well as method steps mentioned herein for fulfilling a mode of operation described herein. In addition, in the value ranges specified in this disclosure, values lying within the stated limits should also be deemed disclosed and can be used in any way.

drawings Further advantages emerge from the following description of the drawings. Four exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings. The drawing, the description and the claims contain numerous features in combination. The person skilled in the art will expediently also consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations.

Show it:

1 shows a schematic functional diagram of a detection device according to the invention,

Fig. 2 is a schematic plan view of the detection device according to the invention,

Fig. 3 is a schematic side view of the detection device according to the invention He,

4 shows a schematic representation of a magnetic field generator of the detection device according to the invention,

5 shows a schematic representation of possible arrangements for the magnetic field generator,

6 shows a schematic representation of a temperature sensor unit of the detection device according to the invention,

7 is a schematic functional diagram of the temperature sensor unit,

Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram of a method according to the invention,

Fig. 9 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a wide Ren magnetic field generator of a further detection device according to the invention with a plug connection,

10 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a further magnetic field generator of an additional detection device according to the invention with a pivot axis and

11 shows a schematic representation of an alternative detection device according to the invention. Description of the exemplary embodiments

Figure 1 shows a detection device 10a. In particular, the detection device 10a is designed as a weighing device. In particular, the acquisition device 10a is provided for performing an NMR measurement and / or an ESR measurement. The detection device 10a comprises at least one magnetic resonance unit 18a. The magnetic resonance unit 18a preferably comprises at least one magnetic field generator 22a. In particular, the magnetic field generator 22a is provided for generating a static, in particular homogeneous, magnetic field. The magnetic field generator 22a is preferably designed as a permanent magnet or comprises an arrangement of several permanent magnets. The magnetic resonance unit 18a preferably comprises at least one further magnetic field generator 24a. The further magnetic field generator 24a is preferably seen to generate an alternating magnetic field. The further magnetic field generator 24a preferably comprises a large number of electrical conductor loops, which are connected in particular as a single magnetic coil or as a group antenna. The further magnetic field generator 24a is preferably provided for receiving an alternating magnetic field. The detection device 10a preferably comprises a power switch 54a, in particular in order to switch back and forth between transmitting and receiving magnetic alternating fields by means of the further magnetic field generator 24a. Alternatively, the magnetic resonance unit 18a comprises at least one receiving antenna, which is embodied separately from the further magnetic field generator 24a. The magnetic resonance unit 18a optionally includes a gradient unit 60a, in particular for superimposing the static, homogeneous magnetic field of the magnetic field generator 22a with a gradient field, in particular for a spatially resolved NMR measurement and / or ESR measurement.

The detection device 10a preferably comprises a control or regulating unit 48a. For example, the control or regulation unit 48a comprises a microcontroller, a microprocessor, a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or the like. In particular, the control or regulation unit 48a is provided to generate an output signal for the further magnetic field generator 24a. In particular, the detection device 10a comprises at least one digital-to-analog converter 50a for converting the output signal for the further magnetic field generator 24a. In particular, the detection device 10a comprises at least one power amplifier 52a, in particular to amplify the output signal for the further magnetic field generator 24a. In particular, the detection device 10a comprises at least one reception amplifier 56a, in particular for amplifying a signal received from the further magnetic field generator 24a. In particular, the detection device 10a comprises at least one analog-digital converter 58a for converting the received signal. The detection device 10a preferably comprises at least one computing unit 44a, in particular for evaluating the received signal.

Figure 2 shows the detection device 10a. The detection device 10a is designed for a conveyor system 12a, in particular for a conveyor system 12a of a filling plant. The conveyor system 12a is provided at least for transporting a conveyed material 14a along a conveyor path 16a. In particular, the conveyed item 14a is subdivided into containers along the conveying path 16a, in particular filled into vials, of which only one is provided with a reference number for the sake of clarity. In particular, the conveying system 12a comprises at least a first conveying element 62a and a second conveying element 64a, in particular for transporting the conveyed material 14a along the conveying path 16a. For example, the first and / or second conveyor element 62a, 64a is designed as conveyor belts. The magnetic resonance unit 18a is provided for detecting a resonance signal of the conveyed item 14a during the transport of the conveyed item 14a along the conveying path 16a. In particular, the further magnetic field generator 24a is provided for receiving the resonance signal.

The detection device 10a comprises an autonomous transport unit 20a. For example, the transport unit 20a comprises at least one conveyor element 66a, for example a conveyor belt. The autonomous transport unit 20a forms a section of the conveying path 16a to which the magnetic resonance unit 18a is assigned. In particular, the magnetic resonance unit 18a is arranged on the transport unit 20a. In particular, the detection device 10a, in particular the conveyor element 66a, is arranged between the first conveyor element 62a and the second conveyor element 64a of the conveyor system 12a. In particular, the transport unit 20a comprises a transfer station 68a. In particular, the transfer station 68a is provided to transfer packs from the conveyor system 12a, in particular the first conveyor element 62a, to the transport unit 20a, in particular to the conveyor element 66a. The transport unit 20a preferably comprises a return station 70a. In particular, the return station 70a is provided to transfer packs from the transport unit 20a, in particular the conveyor element 66a, to the conveyor system 12a, in particular to the second conveyor element 64a. The detection device 10a preferably comprises a shielding unit 72a. At least the magnetic resonance unit 18a is preferably arranged within the shielding unit 72a. In particular, the conveying path 16a, in particular the transport unit 20a, leads through the shielding unit 72a. In particular, the shielding unit 72a is provided to block electromagnetic radiation in the high frequency range and / or the microwave range. For example, the shielding unit 72a comprises a housing made of m-metal, compensation coils or the like. The magnetic resonance unit 18a, in particular the shielding unit 72a, is preferably smaller than 200 cm, preferably smaller than 120 cm, along the conveying path 16a. The magnetic resonance unit 18a, in particular the shielding unit 72a, is preferably smaller than 100 cm, in particular smaller than 60 cm, transversely to the conveying path 16a. The weight of the detection device 10a is preferably less than 750 kg, in particular less than 400 kg.

FIG. 3 shows a side view of the detection device 10a without a shielding unit 72a. The magnetic field generators 22a, 24a are provided to at least partially encompass the conveying path 16a. In particular, the magnetic field generators 22a, 24a at least partially encompass the subsection of the conveying path 16a which is formed by the transport unit 20a. In particular, the magnetic field generator 22a has a partial polarization region 74a. In particular, the magnetic field generator 22a has a detection sub-area 76a. Particularly in the case of open containers, the polarization sub-area 74a and / or the detection sub-area 76a have a U-shaped profile in a plane perpendicular to the conveying path 16a. The transport unit 20a is preferably provided to align the container with a filling opening towards an opening in the polarization sub-region 74a. In particular when the container is closed, the polarization sub-area 74a 'and / or the detection sub-area is in a plane perpendicular to the conveying path 16a 'is completely closed, as shown in FIG. The polarization sub-area 74a 'and / or the detection sub-area for closed containers is preferably designed as a Halbach magnet arrangement.

In particular, the further magnetic field generator 24a is arranged on the section of the conveying path 16a on which the detection sub-area 76a is also arranged. The further magnetic field generator 24a and at least the detection sub-area 76a of the magnetic field generator 22a of the magnetic resonance unit 18a are arranged on a section of the conveying path 16a which runs at least substantially parallel to a maximum longitudinal extension of one of the containers of the conveyed goods 14a. In particular, the transport unit 20a comprises at least one transport element for vertical transport of the containers of the conveyed goods 14a (not explicitly shown here). In particular, during the vertical transport, the conveying path 16a leads through the further magnetic field generator 24a, which is in particular designed as a solenoid coil. In particular, the magnetic resonance unit 18a is provided to perform an NMR measurement and / or an ESR measurement during the vertical transport.

FIG. 5 shows, by way of example, further possible arrangements for the magnetic resonance unit 18a for vertical transport. In FIG. 5a, the polarization sub-area 74a is aligned on the horizontal and the detection sub-area 76a on the vertical. In particular, after traversing the detection sub-area 76a, the packs are brought to the original height upon entry into the polarization sub-area 74a. In FIG. 5b, the detection sub-area 76a is aligned with the vertical. The polarization sub-area 74a leads along a ramp from an initial height of the conveying path 16a to a point below the detection sub-area 76a. In particular, an advantageously long polarization path can be achieved. In FIG. 5c, the detection sub-area 76a and the polarization sub-area 74a are both aligned on the vertical and have opposite directions of transport. In particular, an advantageously compact design can be achieved. In FIG. 5d, the detection sub-area 76a and the polarization sub-area 74a are both aligned on the vertical and in particular arranged directly one behind the other. Especially In particular, the detection sub-area 76a and the polarization sub-area 74a have a direction of transport in the same direction. In particular, the container is in an advantageously homogeneous magnetic field during magnetization and measurement.

Figure 6 shows a contactless temperature sensor unit 42a of the detection device 10a. The temperature sensor unit 42a preferably comprises at least one sensor element 78a for detecting a temperature of the conveyed item 14a, in particular in an individual container. The sensor element 78a and the container are preferably aligned with one another in such a way that a line of sight of the sensor element 78a passes through a filling opening of the container, in particular without cutting the container, and in particular directly hits the conveyed material 14a. The temperature sensor unit 42a preferably comprises at least one further sensor element 80a, 82a for detecting a temperature of the conveyed item 14a in one further container each. The temperature sensor unit 42a preferably comprises a rake-like structural element 84a. In particular, the sensor elements 78a, 80a, 82a are arranged parallel to one another in a plurality of containers on the rake-like structure element 84a for simultaneous detection of the temperature of the conveyed material 14a. The computing unit 44a is preferably provided to compensate for a temperature dependency of the resonance signal of the magnetic resonance unit 18a. The temperature sensor unit 42a is designed independently of the magnetic resonance unit 18a. For example, the sensor elements 78a, 80a, 82a are designed as optical pyrometers. Optionally, the temperature sensor unit 42a comprises at least one additional sensor element 86a, in particular just as many additional sensor elements 86a, 88a, 90a as sensor elements 78a, 80, 82a. In particular, the at least one additional sensor element 86a, 88a, 90a is designed as an optical pyrometer. In particular, the at least one additional sensor element 86a, 88a, 90a is provided to detect a temperature of the container. Optionally, several additional sensor elements 86a, 88a, 90a are arranged parallel to one another on an additional rake-like structural element 92a for simultaneous detection of the temperature of several containers. In particular, the additional sensor elements 86a, 88a, 90a are directed in the opposite direction to the sensor elements 78a, 80a, 82a. The temperature sensor unit 42a is movably mounted for tracking a container of the conveyed material 14a. In particular is the rake-like structure element 84a and / or the further rake-like structure element 92a is provided for an, in particular brief, synchronous movement with the transport unit 20a, in particular the conveying element 66a.

Additionally or alternatively, the temperature sensor unit 42a comprises a spatially resolving infrared camera, in particular a line camera, as shown in FIG. In particular, detection windows 94a-102a, in particular pixels, of the infrared camera are aligned along the conveying path 16a. In particular, the infrared camera is provided to record temperature values TI, T2, T5 of the same container in different recording windows 94a-102a during transport along the conveying path 16a and in particular to average them for an evaluation. Additionally or alternatively, the computing unit 44a comprises a storage element with instructions for compensating for the temperature dependency on the basis of the resonance signal of the magnetic resonance unit 18a.

FIG. 8 shows a method 46a for detecting, in particular weighing, the conveyed item 14a by means of the detection device 10a. In particular, the method 46a comprises a transfer step 104a. In particular, the transfer station 68a transfers the container from the conveyor system 12a to the transport unit 20a. In particular, the method 46a includes a biasing step 106a. In particular, the transport unit 20a transports the pack in the premagnetization step 106a through the magnetic field generator 22a, in particular through the partial polarization region 74a. In particular, the magnetic field generator 22a magnetizes the conveyed item 14a during transport along the conveying path 16a. In particular, the method 46a includes a measuring step 108a. In particular, in the measuring step 108a, the transport unit 20a transports the conveyed goods 14a into the further magnetic field generator 24a. In particular, the detection device 10a carries out at least one NMR measurement and / or one ESR measurement in the measurement step 108a. In particular, the measuring step 108a comprises at least one transmission step and one acquisition step. In particular, the measuring step 108a can comprise a large number, in particular alternating, transmission steps and acquisition steps. In particular, the further magnetic field generator 24a sends out a magnetic alternating field in the sending step. In particular, the further magnetic field generator 24a detects in the detection step the resonance signal of the conveyed item 14a, in particular especially as a reaction to the emitted alternating magnetic field. In particular, the method 46a comprises a return step 110a. In particular, the return station 70a transfers the container to the conveyor system 12a in the return step 110a. In particular, the method 46a comprises a temperature detection step 112a. In particular, the temperature detection step 112a can take place after the transfer step 104a, at the same time as the premagnetization step 106a, at the same time as the measurement step 108a and / or before the return step 110a. In particular, the computing unit 44a evaluates the detected resonance signal in an evaluation step 114a. For example, based on a strength of the resonance signal, the computing unit 44a determines a quantity, in particular a mass, of the material to be conveyed 14a in an individual container. The method 46a preferably comprises at least one evaluation step 114a. In particular, in evaluation step 114a, computing unit 44a evaluates an influence of a temperature on the resonance signal. In particular, the computing unit 44a compensates for a temperature-related fluctuation in the resonance signal based on the temperature detection step 112a. The computing unit 44a preferably calculates the temperature at the time of the measuring step 108a if the temperature detection step 112a was not carried out at the same time as the measuring step 108a. In particular, the computing unit 44a utilizes a temperature of the conveyed item 14a, the container and / or the environment at the time of the temperature detection step 112a in order to simulate, extrapolate and / or interpolate the temperature at the time of the measuring step 108a.

Further exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in FIGS. 9 to 11. The following descriptions and the drawings are essentially limited to the differences between the exemplary embodiments, whereby with regard to identically labeled components, in particular with regard to components with the same reference numerals, in principle also to the drawings and / or the description of the other exemplary embodiments, in particular FIGS to 8, can be referenced. To distinguish the exemplary embodiments, the letter a is placed after the reference numerals of the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. 1 to 8. In the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 9 to 11, the letter a is replaced by the letters b to d. FIG. 9 shows a further magnetic field generator 24b of a magnetic resonance unit 18b for a detection device according to the invention. The magnetic resonance unit 18b comprises at least one adapter base body 26b. For example, the adapter base body 26b is plate-shaped. The adapter base body 26b comprises at least two slots 28b, 30b. The slots 28b, 30b are each provided for receiving a different magnetic field generator 32b, 34b of the magnetic resonance unit 18b. In particular, the magnetic field generators 32b, 34b that can be arranged in the slots 28b, 30b form different configurations of the further magnetic field generator 24b. In particular, the different magnetic field generators 32b, 34b have a large number of conductor loops with plug contacts 116b, only one of which is provided with a reference number for the sake of clarity. In particular, the plug contacts 116b are intended to be plugged into one of the slots 28b, 30b. In particular, the different magnetic field generators 32b, 34b have a U-shaped profile in at least one plane. In particular, the plane with the U-shaped profile of the different magnetic field generators 32b, 34b is intended to be arranged perpendicular to a conveying path 16b when it is inserted into the adapter base body 26b. In particular, the U-shaped profile includes the conveying path 16b in the plane of the U-shaped profile when it is inserted into the adapter base body 26b.

FIG. 10 shows a further magnetic field generator 24c of a magnetic resonance unit 18c for a detection device according to the invention. In particular, the magnetic resonance unit 18c comprises a pivot axis 36c. The further magnetic field generator 24c of the magnetic resonance unit 18c is movably mounted by means of the pivot axis 36c. In particular, the further magnetic field generator 24c comprises at least two assembly half-shells 118c, 120c, which are mounted so as to be movable relative to one another by means of the pivot axis 36c. In particular, the assembly half-shells 118c, 120c each comprise a multiplicity of conductor loops 122c. In particular, the conductor loops 122c in a collapsed state as a further magnetic field generator 24c, in particular by means of plug contacts, can form an individual magnetic coil or a capacitively and / or inductively coupled group antenna. FIG. 11 shows a detection device 10d. The detection device 10d is provided for a conveyor system, the conveyor system being provided at least for transporting an, in particular subdivided, conveyed item 14d along a conveyor path 16d. The detection device 10d comprises a magnetic resonance unit 18d for detecting a resonance signal of the conveyed item 14d during the transport of the conveyed item 14d along the conveying path 16d. The detection device 10d comprises an autonomous transport unit 20d. The transport unit 20d comprises at least one receiving element 40d for receiving the conveyed material 14d. A further magnetic field generator 24d of the magnetic resonance unit 18d is integrated into the receiving element 40d. In particular, the transport unit 20d comprises a rotation element 124d, for example a turret and / or an endless belt. In particular, a plurality of receiving elements 40d of the transport unit 20d are arranged on the rotary element 124d, only one of which is provided with a reference symbol for the sake of clarity. In particular, the rotation element 124d is intended for a synchronous movement with a conveying element 66d of the transport unit 20d. The detection device 10d comprises a translation unit 38d for generating a relative movement between at least the further magnetic field generator 24d of the magnetic resonance unit 18d and at least one of the containers of the conveyed goods 14d transversely to the conveying path 16d. In particular, the translation unit 38d is provided to move one of the containers from the conveying element 66d into one of the receiving elements 40d in order to detect the resonance signal. In particular, the translation unit 38d is provided to move one of the containers back onto the conveying element 66d after the resonance signal has been detected by the receiving element 40d.

Claims

Expectations

1. Detection device, in particular weighing device, for a conveyor system (12a), in particular for a conveyor system (12a) of a filling plant, the conveyor system (12a) at least for the transport of a particularly subdivided conveyed item (14a; 14d) along a conveying path (16a; 16b; 16c; 16d) is provided, characterized by at least one magnetic resonance unit (18a; 18b; 18c; 18d) for detecting a resonance signal of the conveyed goods (14a; 14d) during the transport of the conveyed goods (14a; 14d) along the conveying path (16a; 16b; 16c; 16d).

2. Detection device according to claim 1, characterized by an autonomous transport unit (20a; 20d) which forms a section of the conveyor path (16a; 16b; 16c; 16d) to which the magnetic resonance unit (18a; 18b; 18c; 18d) is assigned is, in particular in / on which the magnetic resonance unit (18a; 18b; 18c; 18d) is arranged.

3. Detection device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the magnetic resonance unit (18a; 18b; 18c; 18d) has at least one magnetic field generator (22a, 24a; 24b; 24c; 22d, 24d), which is provided to the conveying path ( 16a; 16b; 16c; 16d) at least partially.

4. Detection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one magnetic field generator (22a, 24a) of the magnetic resonance unit (18a) is arranged on a section of the conveying path (16a) which is at least substantially parallel to a maximum longitudinal extension of a container of the Material to be conveyed (14a) runs.

5. Detection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the magnetic resonance unit (18b) has at least one adapter base body (26b) with at least two slots (28b, 30b) each for receiving a different magnetic field generator (32b, 34b) of the magnetic resonance unit (18b) having.

6. Detection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one magnetic field generator (24c) of the magnetic resonance unit (18c) is movably supported by means of a pivot axis (36c).

7. Detection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a translation unit (38d) for generating a relative movement between at least one magnetic field generator (24d) of the magnetic resonance unit (18d) and at least one container of the material to be conveyed (14d) transversely to the conveying path (16d) .

8. Detection device at least according to claim 2, characterized in that the autonomous transport unit (20d) comprises at least one receiving element (40d) for receiving the conveyed material (14d), in which at least one magnetic field generator (24d) of the magnetic resonance unit (18d) is integrated .

9. Detection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one contactless temperature sensor unit (42a) and at least one computing unit (44a) to compensate for a temperature dependence of a resonance signal of the magnetic resonance unit (18a).

10. Detection device according to claim 9, characterized in that the temperature sensor unit (42a) is designed independently of the magnetic resonance unit (18a).

11. Detection device according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the temperature sensor unit (42a) is movably mounted for tracking a container of the conveyed material (14a).

12. Detection device according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the computing unit (44a) comprises a memory element with instructions to compensate for the temperature dependence on the basis of the resonance signal of the magnetic resonance unit (18a).

13. A method for detecting, in particular weighing, a conveyed item (14a; 14b; 14c; 14d) by means of a detection device according to one of the preceding claims.