CN103797522B - For reading the system and method for the feature in reverse automatic vending machine - Google Patents

Abstract

nullThe present invention relates to a kind of method、A kind of imaging that can be plugged in reverse automatic vending machine and light source module and reversely automatic vending machine，Reversely automatic vending machine includes the opening (12) for being input to by object in room (20)、Allow to read multiple light sources (28) and multiple imaging device (26) of at least one feature of the object in room，The most the plurality of imaging device and the plurality of light source are arranged as multiple imaging and light unit (40) around the periphery of room (20)，The most each imaging and light unit (40) include a 2D imaging device (41) and a light source (42)，And 2D imaging device (41) and light source (42) are respectively with the first and second inclination angle (α，β) observation and illuminating objects，Wherein the first and second inclination angle (α，β) relative to the centre symmetry line (S) of imaging and light unit (40) in the range of 45 75 °.

Description

For reading the system and method for the feature in reverse automatic vending machine

Technical field

The present invention relates to reverse automatic vending machine (reverse vending machines, machine for automatically recovering device), and And especially, relate to obtaining the information relevant with the feature of the object in reverse automatic vending machine.

Background technology

For the system of recirculation of recyclable (returnable can return to) container (such as container for drink) as preventing There is a lot of year in the machine throwing out and protecting resource without care.This system is initially based on by supplier's hands of container to reclaiming Dynamic operation, but, this process becomes more efficient by introducing reverse automatic vending machine, reverse automatic vending machine energy Enough receive empty, examine the verity of container, and send can exchange cash or in reverse automatic vending machine institute The shop of location is used as the receipt paid.

For many years, reverse automatic vending machine is made more effective and fine.Now, they usually locate reason not The multiple container made with material, described material is typically glass, PET (polyethylene terephthalate), steel and aluminum.The most certainly Dynamic vending machine is normally able to receive that container, according to shape and other physical features and bar code and other labelling to them Confirm, and according to material or type, they are classified.Some machines can store the container that can re-use, and will only follow Ring uses the container extruding of material and is stored separately.Reversely automatic vending machine should be able to refuse expendable appearance Device, detects and processes mistake trial, and suitable recovery value of depositing is distributed to multiple container.Meanwhile, machine must be Reliably, and General Maintenance is not replaced as frequently as parts in requisition for intensive work or requirement.

Accordingly, it would be desirable to continuously improve reverse automatic vending machine, in order to meet these challenges and by such as introducing newly New challenge produced by the recyclable container of type and more complicated mistake trial.

Summary of the invention

According to an aspect of the invention, it is provided a kind of reversely automatic vending machine, it includes for inserting an object into Opening 12 in the inside 20 of machine, multiple light source and multiple 2D imaging device, wherein, the plurality of 2D imaging device and The plurality of light source is arranged to multiple imaging and light unit 40 around the periphery of internal 20, and wherein, imaging and light unit 40 wrap Include a 2D imaging device 41 and a light source 42, and 2D imaging device 41 and light source 42 are respectively with the first inclination angle and second Inclination angle is observed and illuminating objects, and wherein, the first inclination angle and the second inclination angle are relative in imaging and light unit 40 Heart line of symmetry S is in the range of 45-75 °.

According to another aspect of the present invention, it is provided that a kind of acquisition is with the object in reverse automatic vending machine at least The method of the information that one feature is relevant, the method includes: provide multiple light source and multiple imaging device, the plurality of light source and The plurality of imaging device is arranged to multiple imaging and light unit 40 around the periphery of the inside 20 of reverse automatic vending machine, Wherein imaging and light unit 40 include a 2D imaging device 41 and a light source 42；Utilize at least one 2D imaging device 41 with First inclined angle alpha obtains at least one image of object, and the first inclination angle is relative to imaging and centre symmetry line S of light unit 40 In the range of 45-75 °；Utilizing at least one light source 42 with the second angle of inclination beta illuminating objects, the second inclination angle is relative to imaging With centre symmetry line S of light unit 40 in the range of 45-75 °；And utilization connects from least one 2D imaging device 41 described The image received obtains the information relevant with at least one feature described.

According to another aspect of the present invention, it is provided that a kind of imaging being inserted in reverse automatic vending machine and light Source module, comprising: multiple imaging and light unit 40, wherein imaging and light unit include the week around the opening 32 in cassette 31 One 2D imaging device 41 of limit layout and a light source 42, opening 32 is suitable to around for inserting an object in reverse automatic selling Opening 12 in cargo aircraft device assembles；Wherein when module 30 is inserted in reverse automatic vending machine, 2D imaging device 41 He Light source 42 is observed and illuminating objects, wherein the first inclination angle and the second inclination angle phase with the first inclination angle and the second inclination angle respectively For centre symmetry line S of imaging and light unit 40 in the range of 45-75 °.

Referring to the drawings, the other side of the present invention will be understood by dependent claims and detailed description below.

Accompanying drawing explanation

Fig. 1 is the diagrammatic overview of reverse automatic vending machine；

Fig. 2 is the schematic side elevation of an embodiment of the system according to the present invention；

Fig. 3 is the schematic side elevation of another embodiment of the system according to the present invention；

Fig. 4 is the imaging according to the present invention and the schematic cross-sectional view of light source module 30；

Fig. 5 is another imaging according to the present invention and the diagrammatic overview of light source module 30；

Fig. 6 is the schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the imaging according to the present invention and light source module 30；

Fig. 7 be according to the present invention can the diagrammatic overview of distorted substrate；And

Fig. 8 is to illustrate the frame being configured to implement multiple parts of the reverse automatic vending machine of embodiments of the present invention Figure.

Detailed description of the invention

Elaborate multiple examples and the embodiment of the present invention in the following description, in order to provide this for technical staff The more thorough explanation of invention.Under the background of multiple embodiments and the specific details that describes with reference to the accompanying drawings is not intended to It is interpreted to limit.Additionally, the scope of the present invention limits in the following claims.

In the exemplary embodiment, multiple feature and details have been shown in conjunction with it.Relative to particular instance, multiple spy is described The fact that levy it is understood not to imply that these features must be included together in whole embodiments of the present invention.On the contrary Ground, the feature described with reference to different embodiments should not be construed as excluding each other.As those of skill in the art are easy Understand, including the embodiment of any sub-portfolio of feature described herein and not clearly state be separate reality Mode of executing is expected by inventor, and these embodiments are intended to a disclosed part.But, all these embodiments Clear description might not contribute to the understanding to the principle of the invention, therefore, for purposes of simplicity, have been omitted from some special The conversion levied.

As the present invention applies, term " reverse automatic vending machine " is it is also believed that be following again for recyclable container The system of ring, wherein, such as sort out can be in the waste treatment system of recyclable container, when container is recovered, no Pay alluvial.

Referring now to Fig. 1, it illustrates the axonometric chart of reverse automatic vending machine 10 consistent with the principles of the present invention.This Machine can such as be arranged in the shop receiving Nonexpendable Item, and is located such that it is for having Nonexpendable Item Consumer for provide easy access to, and also make Nonexpendable Item can be conveniently stored in machine rear portion or storage In the position that they can the most automatically or manually be transmitted from the rear portion of machine.

The front of machine includes opening 12, and Nonexpendable Item can be entered into by consumer in this opening.Also set up There is the display for providing information to consumer and allow the input equipment of consumer's input simple instruction, such as described Instruction represents that consumer have input their whole Nonexpendable Items.As shown in Figure 1, display and input equipment can Combine with the form with touch screen 14.Alternatively, display and input equipment can be single devices.Machine 10 Front can also include printing equipment 16, receipt can send consumer to from this printing equipment.However, it is also possible to consider to Consumer provides the alternative of receipt, is included in wirelessly or non-wirelessly network and uploads and send electronic receipt, in order to by institute of consumer The electronic installation of the such as cell phone or smart phone that have receives.Electronic receipt can also be directly transmitted to cashier, Or the account of client it is sent to the form paid by mails.Consumer can also be invited to utilize the input equipment merit of touch screen 14 Can select charity organization, the value of the article reclaimed can donate this charity organization.

Machine 10 can to include acoustics or the visual alarm of speaker 18 or some other forms, described speaker or Person's acoustics or visual alarm such as can in fault, memory capacity spill-over or the situation of some other events that should be noted that For giving notice to consumer or operator.

When Nonexpendable Item is input in reverse automatic vending machine 10 by consumer, these article must be identified, its Verity is proved and must determine suitable value.Fig. 2 shows along recyclable by have been inserted in machine 10 The viewgraph of cross-section of the essential elements in the path that article are passed through.When article are recovered, it enters into room by opening 12 In 20.Being internally provided with of room, the article opening 12 from the front being positioned at machine 10 can be sent to the rear portion of machine 10 Carrier 22, at the rear portion of machine 10, article can be stored or stand the most such as to classify, being transmitted further and The further process destroyed.

Traditionally, while the container reclaimed is transported through room 20, observed by one or more photographing units 24 The container reclaimed, and image is analyzed electronically, in order to determine the certainty of container.Development subsequently has been introduced into For identifying barcode reader or other device of the labelling on container.It is known in the art for barcode reader The technology of number of different types, but, the common principal character of major part in them includes light source and optical sensor.Light source Can e.g. light emitting diode (LED), laser instrument or lamp, and optical sensor can be one or more photodiode or Photographing unit.According to the illustrative embodiments shown in Fig. 2, but it is laid at it while container enters in room 20 Before on carrier 22, photographing unit 26 and light source 28 in the way of allowing to read bar code or other labelling around opening 12 cloth Put.Interchangeable structure includes the reader being positioned in end that is within room 20 or that be positioned in carrier 22.These Some detailing requiments containers in structure can rotate while being in chamber interior, in order to makes any on container Shape code or other labelling become fully visible for barcode reader.This has been implemented as the function of carrier 22 the most A part.

Now, the major part of barcode reader at store checkout platform and reverse automatic vending machine is that laser is swept Retouch device.But, laser scanner is little by little replaced by reader based on photographing unit, reader 2D imaging device in particular, Because 2D imaging device and image processing techniques are than only allowing more feature to bar code decoding, such as analyze advanced security Marker characteristic or shape, color and the material of composition object.The reader of both types has very different illumination With imaging geometry shape, it means that they face different problems when reading high reflector surface.In reflective background White bars shape code for laser reader, provide the best contrast, therefore this makes bar code printing at aluminum Popular mode is become on tank processed.Reader based on 2D imaging device that process on usual glossiness object and And during this kind of printing on the most pitted glossy object, there is more difficulty.Especially, this is due to glossy surface The fact that the non-readable direct reflection of the part that causes making bar code or bar code.Hereinafter, for the sake of simplicity, will 2D imaging device is referred to as photographing unit.

A kind of known solution solving this problem is to use polarized light and be positioned at the cross polarization in photographing unit front Device.But, this solution makes to produce costliness, and causes the loss of less desirable light.Example according to present embodiment Property embodiment, it is proposed that a kind of interchangeable solution, wherein, from the light of light source with the angle relative to photographing unit Angulation on object so that substantially all direct reflection is away from camera gun and guides.Fig. 2 shows this system A possible embodiment, wherein, photographing unit 26 and light source 28 are arranged around opening 12, directed from the light of light source 28 On object in room 20.The specular reflection component of reflection light is anti-by the other end relative with light source and photographing unit towards room Penetrating, reflection scattering of light simultaneously is partially reflected on all directions, and a part for this scattered portion is advanced towards photographing unit, with Produce desired imaging.Light or can expire by being rebooted by light by the way of launch the light source of light with given angle Hope angle mirror (mirror, reflecting mirror) and on object angulation.

Although people can be considered as only one photographing unit 26 and a light source 28, but, including more than one photograph Camera and/or light source can improve the visual field of lighting condition and camera arrangement.These additional photographing units and light source can be single Only element, or they can be disposed in the module of photographing unit and light source, in order to it is easily fitted within reverse automatic vending In machine.In a replaceable embodiment of the present invention, multiple groups being made up of a photographing unit 26 and a light source 28 Being arranged in multiple imaging and light unit 40, each imaging and light unit 40 include a photographing unit 41 and a light source 42. Although illustrate only an imaging and light unit 40 in figure 3, but, can around room 20 periphery arrange at least five imaging and Light unit 40 so that the thing that photographing unit 41 and light source 42 are observed with the first inclination angle and the second inclination angle and illuminated in room respectively Body, wherein, the first inclination angle and the second inclination angle relative to centre symmetry line S of imaging and light unit 40 the scope of 45-75 ° In.

Although the imaging that figure 3 illustrates and light unit 40 are arranged around the periphery of opening 12, it is also contemplated that cloth Put in other position around room 20, such as, be arranged in the end of room or be arranged between opening and the end of room Any position.

Fig. 4 shows the imaging according to the present invention and light source module 30, wherein, left side shows imaging and light list Unit 40.Multiple imagings and light unit 40 are arranged in cassette (cartridge) 31 to be easily fitted within reverse automatic vending machine In device.The diameter of module 30 and thickness are expressed as D and C, and include the gap of reading of feature for reading object The depth representing of system is B.Opening 32 be designed and sized to receive various sizes of object, described object normally has Diameter in 50-130mm scope.For can placing an object into the consumer in opening, such as, hands be not stuck in In the case of between wall and the object of opening, the size of opening is normally designed as accommodating the hands keeping object, but to use up simultaneously The least.The diameter of opening 32 is expressed as E.The central axis of the visual field of photographing unit 41 illustrates with the line being expressed as G, and shines The visual field of camera 41 is expressed as F.For purposes of simplicity, light source 42 is shown as the point source with the extended corner H of light, but goes back Multiple light source can be included.Although illustrate only an imaging and light unit 40 in the diagram, but can around opening 32 arrange to Few five imagings and light unit 40 so that photographing unit 41 and light source 42 are relative to the plurality of imaging and the centrosymmetry of light unit 40 The object that line S observes with an angle of inclination and illuminates in room.The centre symmetry line of the plurality of imaging and light unit is expressed as S.

According to the illustrative embodiments of the present invention shown in Fig. 4, light source 42 is located such that the extension with light The light source of angle H is a part at least illuminating objects 50 in the visual field of photographing unit 41.Light source 42 be positioned at the external diameter of opening 32 with Between the central axis of the visual field of photographing unit 41 so that come from the light of light source 42 to guide direct reflection away from camera gun Angle be directed on object 50.Light source 42 can also be positioned to the external diameter of opening 32 further away from each other, or the most upper At the central axis in the visual field of photographing unit 41.In the diagram, light source is oriented to the external diameter towards opening 32 so that object 50 It is illuminated with an angle of inclination relative to centre symmetry line S of imaging and light unit 40.Owing to light source is near the external diameter of opening 32 Location, therefore light to pass through layer 45 close to right angle, reduces the reflection on the inner surface of layer 45, thereby increases wearing of light Cross.On the other hand, when light source moves towards the external diameter of opening 32, from light source to the road of light of the upper and lower in illumination region The difference in footpath increases, and thus reduces the uniformity of illumination.On the other hand, move towards mirror 43,44 away from opening 32 when light source 42 Time dynamic, the uniformity of illumination increases, and therefore in the illustrative embodiments of Fig. 4, light source 32 is positioned as close to the back of the body of mirror 43 Face positions.

Imaging according to the present invention shown in Fig. 4 and the illustrative embodiments of light unit 40, light source 42 includes LED battle array Row, alternatively, it may include one or more lamps.The array formed by multiple LED can include having scope from less than 400nm The wavelength of (ultraviolet light) is to the monochromatic LED more than 760nm (infrared light) and/or White LED.Additionally, according to reverse automatic vending The lighting requirement of machine, multiple LED the array formed can be provided with only one kind of LED, or can be provided with inhomogeneity The combination of the LED of type.

Additionally, the unit 40 that figure 4 illustrates is provided with two mirrors 43,44, for the incidence of described object will be come from Light be directed to be positioned at the front of unit 40 and close on the photographing unit 41 of opening 32.First incident illumination from object is projeced into First mirror 44 and being redirected on the second mirror 43, is then redirected on the first mirror 44, and is finally redirected to On photographing unit 41.When light arrives in photographing unit 41 from the first mirror 44, light is in 43 times processes of the second mirror, or alternatively leads to Cross the opening in the second mirror 43.Make light advance back and forth between two mirrors 43 and 44 add optics from photographing unit to object away from From.Therefore, can obtain and there is the least perspective distortion or there is no the image of perspective distortion (wide angle distortion).Constructed by this, can Obtain and there is the image of enough resolution, in order to the no matter viewing distance between wisp (minor diameter) and big object (major diameter) The most different, the less feature of equal decodable code object.The reason of perspective distortion and impact are known in those of skill in the art , and will no longer be described in detail herein.

In the replaceable embodiment of the present invention, do not use mirror 43,44, and photographing unit 41 (or alternatively, shine Camera array) it is located such that photographing unit 41 faced chamber (such as, in the diagram, there is the room of mirror 44 location).

As it has been described above, the viewing distance along G should be the longest, to obtain the image with enough resolutions, in order to right The feature of wisp (minor diameter) and big object (major diameter) is decoded, and as seen in the diagram, increases module 30 Diameter D viewing distance is increased.When diameter D increases, improve distortion, from the incident illumination of the object 50 on layer 45 Angle (such as angle A) also reduces, and therefore, more light is reflected away from photographing unit, and causing light loss increases.The opposing party Face, it is also possible to reduce distortion by observing object 50 (that is, reducing A) with the most sharp-pointed (less sharp) angle, described relatively The most sharp-pointed angle (i.e., correspondingly can change closer to the viewing angle of opening 32 and change photographing unit 41 by making reading gap Become the angle of mirror 43,44) obtain.The most sharp-pointed visual angle obtained by less A also reduces the degree of depth of site requirements. Although making reading gap provide the most sharp-pointed viewing angle closer to opening 32, but the changing accordingly of the viewing angle of photographing unit 41 Becoming simultaneously makes the angle of the incident illumination from the object 50 on layer 45 reduce, and thus light loss increases.By increasing module 30 Diameter D again increase A and will reduce light loss and direct reflection, and increase viewing distance as above.Between reading Gap, close to opening 32, realizes optimal distorted spots, the degree of depth of field, light loss, direct reflection with small diameter D.Therefore, with system Together, this structure allows for greater compactness of module 30 to the degree of depth reduced.

Although optical characteristics keeps constant in superincumbent description, but by the present invention it is further contemplated that, can Change the optical characteristics of system with the optical characteristics by changing layer 45, such as, change the coefficient of refraction of layer 45 or with anti- Reflectance coating coat 45 so that allow more light with narrower angle by layer 45.In showing of the present invention as above In example embodiment, angle A is in the range of 20-45 °.According to an embodiment of the invention, layer 45 is provided with anti-reflective Penetrate coating so that the incident illumination (i.e. angle A) from the object 50 on layer 45 can be 15 ° the lowest.That is, towards the thing in room The observation of body 50 and the obtained scope of light angle can from relative to imaging and light unit 40 centre symmetry line S 45 with Certain value between 70 ° expands to be up to 75 ° relative to centre symmetry line S of imaging and light unit 40.Thus, ARC is true Protect and can realize the first inclination angle and the second inclined angle alpha, the model of β in the case of not causing too much light loss due to reflection The upper limit enclosed reaches 75 °.

Fig. 5 shows the imaging according to the present invention and the illustrative embodiments of light source module 30, it is shown that six imagings Include a photographing unit 41 and a light source 42 with light unit 40, each imaging and light unit, wherein, the plurality of imaging and The one photographing unit 41 of light unit 40 and one light source 42 are arranged in a common circuit board, wherein, and described one Individual photographing unit 41 and one light source 42 are positioned at outside the basal plane of common circuit board.Imaging and light source die at Fig. 5 In block, one photographing unit 41 is oriented in common circuit board with 90 ° of angles, and one light source orients with 60 ° of angles In common circuit board.

According to the illustrative embodiments shown in Fig. 7, common circuit board includes having the most firm of conductive pattern 71 Property substrate 70, wherein, this substrate includes complications by serpentine shape (twisting, distortion, bending) region 74 phase interconnection The base segments 72 connect and Part II 73, and meander region also includes at least one that limited by the through-going recess in substrate Elongated member 75 that can be tortuous, and this at least one element is arranged to be arranged essentially parallel to the tortuous axis of plate so that institute Stating a photographing unit 41 or one light source 42 can the tortuous base segments to substrate when being arranged on the second portion Plane outside.

Indenture in tank and/or bottle provides the specular surface reflecting light in unpredictable mode so that when reading bar Mistake is often produced during shape code.Because the angle between the angle of the incident illumination in the viewing angle of photographing unit and object is fixing , and the position of tank do not changes a lot, even if continuous print imaging can present identical mistake, finally between continuous exposure Fault is caused when reading bar codes.Therefore, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention, adjacent photographing unit 40a, 40b, 40c... is arranged such that the visual field of adjacent camera is arranged so that they overlap each other.Adjacent camera may be arranged to The region making the object being positioned in the visual field of a photographing unit also is located at the visual field of at least one adjacent camera.By this Arrange, the direct reflection observed by a photographing unit in major part situation by not by by observing the adjacent of same area Photographing unit is observed.Then, can be based on the multiple figures obtained since multiple photographing units in the case of there is no direct reflection The viewable portion of the bar code of picture forms the image of whole bar code, thus, it is allowed to successfully read pitted tank and/or bottle On bar code and other labelling.

Multiple image sets one image of synthesis is depended on the overlap between fragment (that is, the viewable portion of bar code), or Person, as bottom line, is depended on coming " contact site " between the fragment of a series of consecutive images of a photographing unit, is come From overlay chart picture or the combination of adjacent camera.So, it is possible spatially (that is, by the figure of adjacent camera Picture), perform combination (that is, by the consecutive image of a photographing unit) or on the overlapping image of combination in time Image.In an illustrative embodiments, photographing unit 41 is freeze frame digital image sensor, this allow that and utilizes low fortune Dynamic model is stuck with paste and captures image at high speed.

According to an illustrative embodiment of the invention, around opening 32 imaging and light unit 40 it is so structured that allow right In each imaging and light unit 40 photographing unit 41 and light source 42 individually control.This allows according to reverse automatic vending machine The situation of device and/or specification select different illumination schemes and imaging scheme.Especially, this system can allow to activate all simultaneously All light sources 42 on unit and all photographing units 41；The light source 42 being sequentially actuated in each unit and photographing unit 41；And For all sequence of unit ground: activate the photographing unit of a unit 41b, activate the light source of adjacent cells 40a, 40c simultaneously.Rear one Plant structure and define the illumination angle that tank or bottle are more sharp-pointed relative to photographing unit, thus reduce by middle camera unit The direct reflection that 41b observes.Traditionally, used different photographing units to read the object in reverse automatic vending machine Different characteristic, typically, used photographing unit to arrange and read bar code and use another photographing unit to arrange Read shape or the profile of object.According to an illustrative embodiment of the invention, photographing unit 41 be used for read object or The shape of a part for object and bar code, safety label or deposit labelling (storage labelling, deposit mark).

Fig. 6 shows an illustrative embodiments of shape for reading object, wherein imaging and light unit 40 It is additionally provided with the beam splitter 47 in front and the light source 46 (typically LED) being arranged in photographing unit 41 with 45° angle.Light source 46 with The distance identical with the distance in the aperture (aperture, aperture) from beam splitter 47 to photographing unit 41 be arranged in beam splitter 47 with On the opposite side that photographing unit 41 is relative.The light sent from light source 46 is followed substantially the same with the visual field of photographing unit 41 by beam splitter Path reboot on the Reflex Reflector 48 in room towards mirror 43,44.Reflex Reflector 48 is along identical with receiving direction Direction the light received is guided backward.On the return path, light arrives on photographing unit 41 through beam splitter 47.Therefore, light Source 46 and beam splitter 47 are constructed such that light source 46 and photographing unit 41 are to put the most altogether when watching from Reflex Reflector 48 (being positioned at one, co-located).In the embodiment as shown, Reflex Reflector is smooth or slight curving. But, other structure is also possible.Alternatively, as in United States Patent (USP) 5, described in 898,169, smooth mirror can be with Fresnel lens uses in combination.

Because photographing unit can reappear (reproduce), so the profile of bottle is illustrated by the image observed by photographing unit For complete darkness and there is image so the most clearly.The reason of perfect dark rims is as follows.It is positioned at light there is no object Path in the case of, the visual field of photographing unit will be filled by the light from light source 46, i.e. causes image fully to become clear.As Really the some parts of light deflects relative to its normal direction, then those parts of light will not reach photographing unit 41, and that A little parts will become dark.In the case of transparent glass or plastic bottle, especially this kind situation.The material of these bottles will Make anaclasis, to cause it to change direction.This refraction is especially strong at profile, and thus profile appears to be dark.It is present in room In have the bottle of wall the thickest, dark profile is the widest.Having the vial of a little thick wall will be in most of situations Now for being whole dark.Even if very the plastic bottle of thin-walled also provides for clearly and the profile of brilliance.

The embodiment described with reference to Fig. 6 is that thin-wall bottle provides the best contrast, but reads the shape of object Other embodiment also possible, other embodiment described includes the background panel by any object in room Substitute Reflex Reflector.This background can be the whitest or completely black background, but people it is also conceivable to by significantly different Pattern (such as checkerboard pattern) in bottle carrys out tectonic setting.Background panel can be that front side is illuminated or rear side is illuminated , typically electroluminescence panel, LED panel or the like.In this case, it is not necessary to light source 46 and beam splitter 47.

Referring back to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, according to another illustrative embodiments of the present invention, cassette 31 is provided with is determined Position is at imaging and the transparent or semitransparent layer 45 in light source cell 40 front, to prevent imaging and light source cell from from by opening The overflow of the objects that mouth 12,32 is thrown and the impact of splashings.Transparent or semitransparent layer can be by glass, polymer glass (such as, polymethyl methacrylate (acrylic glass) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET)) or other is suitable Transparent or semitransparent material is made.Transparent or semitransparent layer 45 can be shaped as substantially flat sheet material (sheet, thin Sheet), when layer is installed in cassette 31 and is arranged in reverse automatic vending machine, layer is relative to imaging and light unit 40 Centre symmetry line S constitute substantially vertical plane, this vertical plane allows overflow and splashings simply towards instead Flows to automatic vending machine.In another embodiment, transparent or semitransparent layer 45 can be shaped as or fixed Position is for making, and when layer is arranged in cassette 31 and is arranged in reverse automatic vending machine, layer 45 is relative to imaging and light list Centre symmetry line S of unit 40 constitutes the plane being slightly tilted inward, and this plane being slightly tilted inward further simplify spilling Thing and splashings are towards the flowing of the bottom of machine.Transparent or semitransparent layer 45 can also is that recessed, wherein concave surface Top point to the outside of machine, or layer can other suitable shape bending any.Another embodiment party in the present invention In formula, layer 45 is not requiring to be opaque in the region of imaging and illumination.

Referring now to Fig. 8, it is the illustrative embodiments illustrating reversely automatic vending machine in accordance with the principles of the present invention The block diagram of multiple parts.Multiple light sources 28,42 are connected to include the processing unit 80 of synchronization module 82.Synchronization module 82 is permissible Be configured to control light source 28,42, photographing unit 26,41, optical pickocff 29 is (such as according to ultrasound wave or the sensing of laser technology Device) and any required simultaneously operating of carrier 22, such as, which controls when a specific photographing unit 26,41 activated 28,42 pairs of rooms of one light source are illuminated, or guarantee that two or more photographing units are by simultaneously or according to particular order Activate, as indicated by by any one in above-mentioned embodiment or a combination thereof.From photographing unit 26,41, optionally sense The data that device 29 and carrier 22 return are received by handling machine 80.Additionally, reversely automatic vending machine can include being constructed For comparing the comparison module 84 of the image detected by photographing unit 26,41, to identify the contour images of specific return object, and This identification communication is returned to processing unit 80.From user input or can be respectively by processing to the output of user Device unit 80 is received by display and input equipment and controls, and described display and input equipment can be combined in touch screen 14, printer 16 with in speaker 18.

Reversely automatic vending machine can also include bar code reading unit 86 and feature extraction unit 88.Feature extraction list Unit 88 can identify according to the requirement of reverse automatic vending machine and analyze feature (such as advanced security labelling or color and The material of the object that composition is reclaimed), and this identification communication is returned to processing unit 80.Those skilled in the art will Being understood by, shape matching unit 84, bar code reading unit 86 may be embodied as being stored in storage with feature extraction unit 88 In device (not shown) and be configured to the software performed by processing unit 80.These unit can also be fully or partially Be embodied as single processor, image processor, field-programmable gate array (FPGA), special IC (ASIC) or Person's combinations thereof.Additionally, implement in the many algorithms of these unit, instruction and hardware multiple can be as more than one The part operation of this unit.Such as, the algorithm being implemented as the software in bar code reading unit 86 can double as one Or the part in the multiple feature extraction functions part of feature extraction unit 88 (described function be).

Those skilled in the art is it will be further understood that the most unshowned optional feature can be reverse automatic selling A part for cargo aircraft device or the reversely system of automatic vending machine.Described parts can such as include power supply, for remotely Computer or the communication interface of memory element communication, include volatibility and the various memory element of nonvolatile memory unit, number According to storehouse etc..

Claims (43)

1. a reverse automatic vending machine, including the opening (12) in the room (20) for inserting an object into machine, multiple Light source and multiple 2D imaging device, wherein, the plurality of 2D imaging device and the plurality of light source are around described room (20) Periphery is arranged to multiple imaging and light unit (40), each described imaging and light unit (40) and includes a 2D imaging device (41) and one the first light source (42), described 2D imaging device (41) and described first light source (42) are respectively with the first inclination angle (α) described object is observed and is illuminated at He the second inclination angle (β), and wherein, described first inclination angle (α) and described second tilts Angle (β) relative to the centre symmetry line (S) of described imaging and light unit (40) in the range of 45-75 °, wherein

Described reverse automatic vending machine is provided with transparent or semitransparent layer (45), described imaging and light unit (40) and is positioned at First side of described layer (45)；And when observed with when illuminating, described object is positioned at the relative with described first side of described layer The position of the second side；Translucent described layer (45) is substantially flat sheet material, and described sheet material composition is substantially opposite The plane that the centre symmetry line (S) of described imaging and light unit (40) is vertical.

Reverse automatic vending machine the most according to claim 1, including at least five imaging and light unit (40).

Reverse automatic vending machine the most according to claim 1, wherein, at least one feature of described object is bar shaped Code, safety label, deposit the shape of a part for labelling, described object or described object, the color of described object and composition One or more in the material of described object.

Reverse automatic vending machine the most according to claim 1, wherein, described first inclination angle (α) and described second is inclined (β) is substantially identical at oblique angle.

Reverse automatic vending machine the most according to claim 1, wherein, the visual field of adjacent 2D imaging device is overlapping So that the region of the object being positioned at the visual field of a 2D imaging device also is located at least one adjacent 2D imaging device In visual field.

Reverse automatic vending machine the most according to claim 1, wherein, described 2D imaging device (41) is freeze frame numeral Imageing sensor.

Reverse automatic vending machine the most according to claim 1, wherein, described transparent or semitransparent layer (45) is positioned In described imaging and the front of light unit (40).

Reverse automatic vending machine the most according to claim 1, wherein, described transparent or semitransparent layer (45) is not It is opaque for asking in the region of imaging and illumination.

Reverse automatic vending machine the most according to claim 1, wherein, described transparent or semitransparent layer (45) is provided with ARC.

Reverse automatic vending machine the most according to claim 9, wherein, described ARC guarantees not have Described first inclination angle (α) and the model at described second inclination angle (β) is realized cause too much light loss due to reflection in the case of Place and be limited to 75 °.

11. reverse automatic vending machines according to claim 1, wherein, described transparent or semitransparent layer (45) is by cloth It is set to constitute, relative to the described centre symmetry line (S) of described imaging and light unit (40), the plane being slightly tilted inward.

12. reverse automatic vending machines according to claim 1, wherein, described transparent and translucent layer (45) is recessed Entering, wherein the outside of described reverse automatic vending machine is pointed at the top of concave surface.

13. reverse automatic vending machines according to claim 1, wherein, described transparent or semitransparent layer (45) is by glass Glass is made.

14. reverse automatic vending machines according to claim 1, farther include: Reflex Reflector (48), beam splitter And secondary light source (46) (47)；And wherein, described 2D imaging device (41) is configured to observe facing to described Reflex Reflector Contour of object, and, described secondary light source and described beam splitter are constructed so that described secondary light source and described 2D imaging device Put the most altogether when watching from described Reflex Reflector.

15. reverse automatic vending machines according to claim 1, farther include: background panel；And it is wherein, described 2D imaging device (41) is configured to observe contour of object facing to described background panel.

16. reverse automatic vending machines according to claim 15, wherein, described background panel is the whitest, completely black Or it is provided with pattern visibly different with bottle.

17. reverse automatic vending machines according to claim 1, wherein, described transparent or semitransparent layer (45) is by gathering Compound glass is made.

18. 1 kinds of methods obtaining the information relevant with at least one feature of the object in reverse automatic vending machine, described Method includes:

There is provided multiple light source and multiple 2D imaging device, the plurality of light source and the plurality of 2D imaging device around described reversely The periphery of the room (20) of automatic vending machine is arranged as multiple imaging and light unit (40), wherein, described imaging and light unit (40) a 2D imaging device (41) and first light source (42) are included；

Described reverse automatic vending machine is provided with transparent or semitransparent layer (45), described imaging and light unit (40) and is positioned at First side of described layer (45)；And when observed with when illuminating, described object is positioned at the relative with described first side of described layer The position of the second side；Translucent described layer (45) is substantially flat sheet material, and described sheet material composition is substantially opposite The plane that the centre symmetry line (S) of described imaging and light unit (40) is vertical；

At least one 2D imaging device (41) is utilized to obtain at least one image of described object with the first inclination angle (α), described First inclination angle relative to the centre symmetry line (S) of described imaging and light unit (40) in the range of 45-75 °；

Utilizing at least one first light source (42) with the second inclination angle (β) illuminating objects, described second inclination angle is relative to described The centre symmetry line (S) of imaging and light unit (40) is in the range of 45-75 °；And

At least one image described obtained by least one 2D imaging device (41) described is utilized to obtain and described at least one The information that individual feature is relevant.

19. methods according to claim 18, farther include:

Arrange described imaging and light unit (40) so that the visual field of adjacent 2D imaging device (41) substantially overlaps each other；With And

Described in the viewable portion coming from least one feature described of described adjacent 2D imaging device (41) is combined into extremely One image of a few feature.

20. methods according to claim 19, farther include:

The visible section packet of at least one feature described of a series of consecutive images of a 2D imaging device (41) will be come from One image of synthesis at least one feature described.

21. methods according to claim 20, farther include:

Described adjacent 2D imaging device (41) will be come from and come from the described of described adjacent 2D imaging device (41) The described viewable portion of at least one feature described of a series of consecutive images is combined into a figure of at least one feature described Picture.

22. methods according to claim 18, wherein, described first inclination angle (α) and described second inclination angle (β) are bases In basis equal.

23. methods according to claim 18, wherein, described method farther includes sequentially to start for described imaging With each imaging in light unit and the first light source of light unit and 2D imaging device.

24. methods according to claim 18, wherein, described method farther includes for all imagings and light unit suitable Sequence ground: activates one imaging and the 2D imaging device of light unit, while only activate the first light source of adjacent imaging and light unit.

25. according to the method according to any one of claim 18 to 23, and wherein, at least one feature described is to utilize to be constructed By observe facing to the background panel including Reflex Reflector (48) the 2D imaging device (41) of profile of recovery object obtained Contour of object, and wherein, secondary light source (46) and beam splitter (47) are configured such that described secondary light source and described 2D Imaging device is put the most altogether when watching from described Reflex Reflector.

26. according to the method according to any one of claim 18 to 23, and wherein, at least one feature described is to utilize to be constructed By observe facing to background panel the contour of object that obtained of the 2D imaging device (41) of profile of recovery object.

27. methods according to claim 26, wherein, described background panel be the whitest, completely black or be provided with The visibly different pattern of bottle.

28. methods according to claim 18, wherein, at least one feature of described object be bar code, safety label, That deposits in the material of object described in labelling, the shape of described object, the color of described object and composition is one or more.

29. 1 kinds of imagings being inserted in reverse automatic vending machine and light source module (30), including:

Multiple imagings and light unit (40), wherein, described imaging and light unit include around the opening (32) in cassette (31) One 2D imaging device (41) of periphery layout and first light source (42), described opening (32) is suitable to around for by object Insert opening (12) assembling in described reverse automatic vending machine；Wherein, it is inserted into the most automatically when described module (30) Time in vending machine, described 2D imaging device (41) and described first light source (42) incline with the first inclination angle (α) and second respectively Described object is observed and is illuminated at oblique angle (β), and wherein, described first inclination angle (α) and described second inclination angle (β) are relative to described The centre symmetry line (S) of imaging and light unit (40) is in the range of 45-75 °, wherein

Described cassette (31) is provided with transparent or semitransparent layer (45), described imaging and light unit (40) and is positioned at described layer (45) the first side；And when observed with when illuminating, described object is positioned at second relative with described first side of described layer The position of side；Translucent described layer (45) is substantially flat sheet material, and described sheet material composition is substantially opposite described one-tenth The plane that the centre symmetry line (S) of picture and light unit (40) is vertical.

30. imaging according to claim 29 and light source modules, including at least five imaging and light unit (40).

31. imaging according to claim 29 and light source modules, wherein, described first inclination angle (α) and described second is inclined (β) is substantially identical at oblique angle.

32. imaging according to claim 29 and light source modules, wherein, the visual field of adjacent 2D imaging device (41) is weight Fold so that the region of the object being positioned at the visual field of a 2D imaging device also is located at the 2D imaging device that at least one is adjacent Visual field in.

33. imaging according to claim 29 and light source modules, wherein, the plurality of imaging and light unit (40) described One 2D imaging device (41) and one light source (42) are disposed in a common circuit board, wherein, and one 2D Imaging device (41) and one light source (42) are positioned in outside the basal plane of described common circuit board.

34. imaging according to claim 33 and light source modules, wherein, described common circuit board includes having conductive pattern (71) substantially rigid substrate (70), wherein, described substrate includes that the meander region (74) by serpentine shape interconnects mutually The base segments (72) connect and Part II (73), and described meander region also include by described substrate through-going recess limit Fixed at least one can be tortuous elongated member (75), and at least one element described is arranged to be arranged essentially parallel to described The tortuous axis of circuit board so that one 2D imaging device (41) or one light source (42) are being disposed in described Time in two parts outside the plane of the tortuous described base segments arriving described substrate of energy.

35. imaging according to claim 29 and light source modules, wherein, described cassette (31) be provided be positioned in described The transparent or semitransparent layer (45) in imaging and light source cell (40) front.

36. imaging according to claim 29 and light source modules, wherein, described transparent or semitransparent layer (45) is not It is opaque for asking in the region of imaging and illumination.

37. imaging according to claim 29 and light source modules, wherein, described transparent or semitransparent layer (45) is provided with ARC.

38. according to the imaging described in claim 37 and light source module, wherein, described ARC guarantee not by Described first inclination angle (α) and the scope at described second inclination angle (β) is realized cause too much light loss in reflection in the case of The upper limit is 75 °.

39. imaging according to claim 35 and light source modules, wherein, described translucent layer (45) is substantially planar Sheet material, and, described substantially flat sheet material when being inserted in described reverse automatic vending machine relative to described The described centre symmetry line (S) of imaging and light unit (40) constitutes substantially vertical plane.

40. imaging according to claim 29 and light source modules, wherein, described transparent or semitransparent layer (45) is arranged For when being inserted in described reverse automatic vending machine relative to described imaging and the described centrosymmetry of light unit (40) Line (S) constitutes the plane being slightly tilted inward.

41. imaging according to claim 29 and light source modules, wherein, described transparent or semitransparent layer (45) is recessed , when described transparent or semitransparent layer is inserted in described reverse automatic vending machine, the top of concave surface is pointed to The outside of described reverse automatic vending machine.

42. imaging according to claim 29 and light source modules, wherein, described transparent or semitransparent layer (45) is by glass Make.

43. imaging according to claim 29 and light source modules, wherein, described transparent or semitransparent layer (45) is by being polymerized Thing glass is made.