CN114062367A

CN114062367A - Apparatus and method for rating data matrix codes on parts

Info

Publication number: CN114062367A
Application number: CN202010789568.1A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 张书生; 刘金辉
Original assignee: BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd
Current assignee: BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd
Priority date: 2020-08-07
Filing date: 2020-08-07
Publication date: 2022-02-18

Abstract

The present application relates to an apparatus and method for rating a data matrix code on a part. An apparatus for rating a data matrix code on a part, the apparatus comprising a detection device comprising a camera and a light source, wherein the detection device is configured to be capable of adjusting the position and attitude and when not adjusted the position and attitude of the detection device remains fixed, the camera is configured for acquiring an image of at least the data matrix code of the part to be inspected, and the light source is configured for being capable of emitting light of at least two different colors for illumination of at least the data matrix code in dependence on a control.

Description

Apparatus and method for rating data matrix codes on parts

Technical Field

The invention relates to a device and a method for rating a data matrix code on a part.

Background

A Data Matrix Code (DMC) is a two-dimensional matrix code (two-dimensional code) capable of encoding a large amount of data in a narrow space. Fig. 1A shows an example of a data matrix code 100.

For example, in industrial production, a DMC may typically be placed on a part to identify information associated with the part, including, but not limited to, model number, lot, etc. This can be seen in the data matrix codes 100', 100 "of fig. 1B and 1C.

The quality of the DMC itself is critical and can be evaluated on a scale (e.g., a scale a to a scale F). Parameters characterizing quality may include, for example, overall quality, cell contrast, axial non-uniformity, grid non-uniformity, and the like. Evaluation requires measurement and ranking of defined parameters, such as those described above. With respect to DMC setup and use, the ranking results can be utilized for diagnostics and process control. For example, it can be used to characterize the read performance that a DMC should have in various environments. This is because different types of reading devices are used under different conditions in practical applications, and the result of reading of the DMC is confirmed to be acceptable by evaluation.

Therefore, the parts are generally subjected to sampling inspection to evaluate the grade of DMC quality, and in the case where a predetermined grade is not satisfied, adjustment of setting means, process, and the like of the two-dimensional code may be required.

In view of the complexity of the structure of the part and the diversity of surface characteristics, in order to accurately evaluate the quality grade of the two-dimensional code, the prior art needs to be improved.

Disclosure of Invention

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for an improved apparatus and method for ranking data matrix codes on parts. Apparatus and methods are provided that are flexible in operation and structurally stable, improving the ability to detect DMCs, particularly problematic DMCs.

According to some aspects of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for rating a data matrix code on a part, the apparatus comprising a detection device comprising a camera and a light source, wherein the detection device is configured to be adjustable in position and attitude and to remain fixed by default when not adjusted, the camera being configured for acquiring an image of at least the data matrix code of the part to be detected, and the light source being configured to emit light of at least two different colors for illumination of at least the data matrix code in dependence on a control.

According to some aspects of the invention, the light source is arranged to surround the camera. Preferably, the visual axis of the camera substantially coincides with the central longitudinal axis of the light source.

According to some aspects of the invention, the light source includes a housing extending from a first end to a second end and at least two light emitting members disposed inside the housing at different locations. Preferably, the housing expands along the central longitudinal axis from the first end towards the second end, for example in the form of a frustoconical or stepped cylinder. Preferably, the main emission direction of the light emitting element may be at an oblique angle to the central longitudinal axis of the light source, i.e. may be directed towards the second end at an oblique angle. Preferably, the luminous elements are formed as a strip of annular light arranged one after the other along a central longitudinal axis of the light source. Preferably, the same strip of light emits light of one colour. Preferably, the lamp strip may be provided with a plurality of lamp beads. Preferably, the beads may have an array pattern, for example substantially evenly distributed along the circumferential direction.

According to some aspects of the invention, the light source comprises a light emitting element (e.g., a light strip) that emits white light, red light, green light, and blue light, respectively.

According to some aspects of the invention, the at least two different colors of light are configured to be emitted, either individually or in combination, according to the control, so as to emit even other colors of light.

According to some aspects of the invention, the light source is capable of emitting light with an adjustable intensity.

According to some aspects of the present invention, the apparatus includes an attitude adjusting device and a position adjusting device, the detecting device is coupled to the attitude adjusting device, and the attitude adjusting device is coupled to the position adjusting device. In this way, the detection device can be moved in up to six degrees of freedom.

According to some aspects of the invention, the attitude adjustment means comprises first and second segments each comprising first and second relatively rotatable portions (to provide first and second degrees of rotational freedom respectively), and the first and second portions of the first and second segments are relatively rotatably connected (to provide a third degree of rotational freedom). Thus, two of the rotational degrees of freedom are provided by rotation between the respective first and second portions, while the remaining one is provided by rotation between the two first portions. Preferably, the three rotational degrees of freedom provided by the attitude adjustment means each range from-180 ° to 180 °.

According to some aspects of the invention, the first portion of the first segment and the first portion of the second segment each comprise a fork hingedly connected such that the first segment and the second segment are rotatable relative to each other about a hinge axis. Preferably, the hinge axis extends substantially transversely to the fork.

According to some aspects of the invention, at opposite ends of the two first portions remote from the relative rotational connection, the two first portions are each nestingly connected with the second portion of the same segment such that the first and second portions of the same segment are rotatable relative to each other about respective nesting axes. Preferably, the nesting axis is substantially perpendicular to the hinge axis.

According to some aspects of the invention, the attitude adjustment means may remain fixed by default. Preferably, the posture adjustment device is provided with a damping member (e.g., a damping fin) at the rotation portion, the damping member being configured to provide resistance against rotation, so that the posture adjustment device achieves posture maintenance by a friction damping action. Preferably, at least one damping member (e.g., damping fin) is compressed with a spring or screw.

According to some aspects of the present invention, the posture adjustment device is further provided with a scale at an outer surface of the rotation portion.

According to some aspects of the invention, the detection device is coupled to an end of the second portion of the second section of the attitude adjustment device. Preferably, the tip is provided with a mounting tab, wherein the mounting tab is provided with an aperture extending therethrough for substantially aligning with an aperture of a side of the camera, and the mounting tab is provided with a notch at an opposite side for mating with the camera for mating with a tab extending from an end of the light source facing away from the light emission direction. Preferably, the coupling may use threaded fasteners.

According to some aspects of the present invention, the position adjustment device comprises three linear adjustments (to provide three substantially orthogonal linear degrees of freedom), each having a guide body and a slide body that slides substantially linearly on the guide body, wherein the guide body of a first linear adjustment is coupled to or forms part of the slide body of a second linear adjustment, and the guide body of the second linear adjustment is coupled to or forms part of the slide body of a third linear adjustment. Preferably, one of the three linear degrees of freedom is substantially vertical with a stroke of about 450 mm, and the other two are substantially horizontal with a stroke of about 500 mm.

According to some aspects of the invention, the position adjustment device may be provided with a position sensor for providing a signal indicative of the position of the respective linear displacement. Preferably, the position sensor comprises a grating scale to provide a substantially consistent accurate indication signal over a wide range of travel.

According to some aspects of the invention, the position adjustment device may remain fixed by default. Preferably, the position adjustment device is provided with a locking member in the linear adjustment section, the locking member being configured to provide resistance against relative sliding such that the position adjustment device achieves position retention by a locking action. Preferably, the locking means comprises a pneumatic clamp configured to provide locking using an internal spring when not receiving pneumatic pressure supply and to unlock when receiving pneumatic pressure supply. Preferably, the air supply system for operating the pneumatic pincer provides a pressure of about 0.6-0.7MPa and is normally off.

According to some aspects of the invention, the second portion (particularly in a rod-like configuration) of the first segment of the attitude adjustment device is coupled to or formed as part of the sliding body of the first linear adjustment portion.

According to some aspects of the invention, the device includes an interactive interface for monitoring and/or manipulation of the device. Preferably, the interaction interface comprises an adjustment knob to adjust the intensity of the light source. Preferably, the interactive interface comprises an unlock button, wherein the locking means is configured to unlock if the unlock button is pressed in the operational state of the device, and the locking means is configured to remain locked if the device is not in the operational state and/or if the unlock button is not pressed. Preferably, the interactive interface comprises a display screen. The display screen may include one or more of the following: an indicating section that reports a position of the corresponding linear displacement; an indicating section for clearing the position corresponding to the linear displacement; an indication part for indicating the total on-off of the light source; and an indicator portion that is turned on and off for each color in the light source. Preferably, the display screen may be a touch screen that is interacted with by hand, or may be interacted with by means of another device, such as a mouse.

According to some aspects of the invention, the apparatus comprises a detection housing, preferably substantially C-shaped, defining a detection space for receiving a part to be detected provided with a data matrix code. Preferably, the guide body of the third linear adjustment section of the position adjustment device is coupled to the detection housing.

According to some aspects of the invention, the device comprises a light-shielding curtain for shielding the illumination in the external environment, e.g. the detection space may be covered from interference. In the case of the above-described C-shaped inspection cabinet, the window blind is configured to cover at least the front side and both lateral sides thereof.

According to some aspects of the invention, the apparatus comprises processing means, such as a computer, for ranking the data matrix code based on the acquired image.

According to some aspects of the invention, there is provided a method of grading a data matrix code on a part using the apparatus of the invention, comprising at least the steps of: providing a part to be detected provided with a data matrix code; adjusting the detection device to be close to the data matrix code of the part to be detected, so that at least a camera of the detection device is approximately aligned with the data matrix code; acquiring an image of at least a data matrix code of a part to be detected by using a camera; and ranking the data matrix code based on the acquired image.

According to some aspects of the invention, the apparatus is configured or the method further comprises performing at least two image acquisitions, and preferably a corresponding rating, of the part, wherein between image acquisitions: changing the color and preferably the intensity of the light source of the illumination of the part to be detected; and/or readjust at least one of a position and a posture of the detection device. For example, the method may involve one image acquisition and rating of at least the data matrix code of the part to be inspected, but may involve at least another image acquisition and rating of at least the data matrix code of the part to be inspected when the expected rating does not correspond to the rated rating (e.g. the difference in rating may be too large, such as three levels different) for the purpose of rating confirmation and investigation, for example possible defects or deficiencies of the camera may also be analyzed. In particular, corresponding actions as described above are performed between image acquisitions.

According to some aspects of the invention, the part is a first part, the apparatus is configured or the method further comprises ranking the data matrix code on a second part, wherein the color of the light source of the illumination of the second part to be detected is different from that of the first part.

According to some aspects of the invention, the method further comprises confirming that the inspection device is in a default position (e.g. vertically in a highest allowed position and horizontally in a corner of the inspection space) before providing the part to be inspected. Preferably, the method further comprises adjusting the inspection device to be in the default position if it is confirmed that it is not in the default position before providing the part to be inspected.

According to some aspects of the invention, the method further comprises shielding the detection space from the external environment with a window blind during image acquisition.

According to some aspects of the invention, the method further comprises actuating an unlocking member, such as the unlocking button described above, at least during adjusting the position in the position and the attitude of the detection device.

In the present invention, it is preferable to provide an integrated light source (which is therefore already provided with a corresponding luminous element) controllable (for example comprising manual operation, for example via the above-mentioned interactive interface) to emit light of at least two different colors, which by selection of colors (and possibly intensities) and even in combination, has a very good enhancement in obtaining images of high contrast, can highlight the three-dimensional information of the part to be detected, accurately reflecting the relation of the data matrix code to the surrounding structure (for example the surrounding surface and its characteristics). For example, for some constructed parts, the data matrix code surrounding surface thereon is reflective, for some constructed parts, the data matrix code surrounding color thereon is similar to the data matrix code color, and for some constructed parts, the data matrix code surrounding surface thereon is rougher. Thus, it may be necessary to control the light source differently (using different monochromatic or polychromatic light combinations, each of which may have the same or different intensities) for the proper illumination of the part to be inspected. On the other hand, the control of the light source can be carried out in a feedback manner, for example, in the case of objections to conventional measurement results (evaluation results are significantly different from expected results) or defects in which more clear details are desired to be highlighted, so that the properties of the data matrix code itself are confirmed more accurately for the purpose of rating studies. In this way, the versatility and convenience of the overall apparatus are improved.

In the present invention, a frictional damping effect with respect to attitude adjustment is preferably provided, thereby facilitating, in particular, fine-grained attitude adjustment.

In the present invention, a locking action with respect to position adjustment is preferably provided, so that a certain fail-safe is obtained, so that the detection device is less prone to unintentionally sliding to the end of travel, collision/impact occurring, adversely affecting the associated components. In particular, with a normally closed pneumatic caliper, upon loss of power (and thus loss of pressure due to a disconnected air supply), the pneumatic caliper can quickly respond to return to a braking state.

Drawings

Fig. 1A, 1B, and 1C show examples of a data matrix code.

FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of at least a portion of an apparatus for rating a data matrix code on a part according to some embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic view of at least a portion of a light source of an apparatus for rating a data matrix code on a part according to some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates an end view of at least a portion of a light source of an apparatus for grading a data matrix code on a part according to some embodiments of the invention.

5A-5B illustrate schematic views of at least a portion of a pose adjustment apparatus of an apparatus for rating a data matrix code on a part according to some embodiments of the invention.

6A-6B illustrate cross-sectional views of at least a portion of an attitude adjustment arrangement of an apparatus for rating data matrix codes on parts, according to some embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of at least a portion of a position adjustment device of an apparatus for rating a data matrix code on a part according to some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a cut-away perspective view of at least a portion of a pneumatic clamp that may be used with a position adjustment device of an apparatus for rating data matrix codes on a part according to some embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate schematic diagrams of at least a portion of an interactive interface of an apparatus for rating data matrix codes on a part according to some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 10 illustrates a schematic diagram of at least a portion of an apparatus for rating a data matrix code on a part according to some embodiments of the invention.

Detailed Description

The present invention is described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which certain embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth and described herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. It will also be appreciated that the embodiments disclosed herein may be combined in any manner and/or combination to provide many additional embodiments.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The terminology used in the description above is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention.

For purposes of illustration, the same reference numbers will be used in the drawings to refer to the same or like devices, units and/or components, and the parts will not necessarily be to scale.

Referring now to fig. 1A, fig. 1A shows an example of a data matrix code 100. As in the background section at the outset, a Data Matrix Code (DMC) is a two-dimensional matrix code (two-dimensional code) that is capable of encoding a large amount of data in a narrow space. For example, the data matrix code 100 shown in fig. 1A may be interpreted as "abcdabd".

In utilizing DMC, it is often necessary to rate its quality. For example, comparing the data matrix codes 100', 100 "on the parts in FIG. 1B and FIG. 1C, the latter is visually more distinct than the former. Therefore, quality rating is necessary. However, the structure of the part in which the DMC is disposed may be complicated, the surface characteristics may vary, and the like, which may present challenges in assessing the quality rating of the DMC.

The present application provides an improved apparatus and method for rating data matrix codes on parts.

Referring now to FIG. 2, FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of at least a portion of an apparatus 1 for rating data matrix codes on a part according to some embodiments of the present invention. The device 1 comprises detection means 3. The detection means 3 comprise a camera 4 and a light source 5. The camera 4 is configured to perform image acquisition of at least the data matrix code of the part to be detected. The light source 5 is configured to emit light of at least two different colors for illumination of the part to be inspected, according to a control. As shown in fig. 2, an exemplary part P to be inspected, provided with a data matrix code 100' (not drawn in detail for the sake of simplicity), is placed in the inspection space S, irradiated by the light source 5 and subjected to image acquisition by the camera 4. In the embodiment shown in fig. 2, the exemplary part P to be inspected is a simple cuboid, with a data matrix code 100' disposed on the top surface of the cuboid. However, the actual part may have a complex shape, and the data matrix code disposed thereon may be oriented in other directions. Thus, the detection device 3 can adjust the position and attitude (e.g., within the detection space S), and can maintain its position and attitude by default without exogenous intervention.

According to the embodiment of fig. 2, the light source 5 comprises a housing 50 expanding from a first end towards a second end along a central longitudinal axis, wherein the housing is frusto-conical. Of course, the housing may also be formed in another configuration. For example, fig. 3 shows a schematic view of at least a part of a light source 5 of an apparatus 1 for rating a data matrix code on a part according to some embodiments of the present invention. According to the embodiment of fig. 3, the light source 5 comprises a housing 50 expanding from a first end towards a second end along a central longitudinal axis, wherein the housing is a stepped cylinder. Furthermore, the light source 5 of fig. 3 may further comprise a mating tab 55 extending from an end of the light source 5 facing away from the light emission direction.

Referring now to fig. 4, fig. 4 shows an end view of at least a portion of a light source 5 of an apparatus 1 for rating a data matrix code on a part according to some embodiments of the present invention. In particular, the end view is a view from the second end against the light source 5. The light source 5 is arranged to surround the camera 4. Preferably, the visual axis of the camera 4 substantially coincides with the central longitudinal axis of the light source 5. In this way, alignment adjustment of the camera 4 and the light source 5 with respect to the data matrix code on the part may be facilitated. In other words, in these and other embodiments, the camera 4 and the light source 5 may be integrally mounted/fixed.

According to the embodiment of fig. 4, the light source 5 comprises a housing 50 extending from a first end to a second end and at least two, in particular a plurality of, light emitting elements arranged inside the housing 50 at different positions. Preferably, the main emission direction of the light emitting element may be at an oblique angle to the central longitudinal axis of the light source, i.e. may be directed towards the second end at an oblique angle, in other words, the main emission direction may not be parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the light source. As shown in fig. 4, the light emitters are formed as a strip of light rings, in particular four strips of

light rings

51a, 51b, 51c, 51d, arranged one after the other along a central longitudinal axis of the light source 5, wherein a given strip emits light of a given color. Preferably, the

light strips

51a, 51b, 51c, 51d may each be provided with a plurality of

light beads

511a, 511b, 511c, 511d, such as, but not limited to, LED light beads. In the

same lamp strip

51a, 51b, 51c, 51d, the

lamp beads

511a, 511b, 511c, 511d are arranged according to a certain pattern, in particular are substantially uniformly distributed in the circumferential direction, and are substantially aligned in the direction orthogonal to the circumferential direction, forming a three-turn annular sub-band. Of course, the beads may also be unevenly distributed in the circumferential direction and/or at least partially staggered in a direction orthogonal to the circumferential direction and/or form other forms of less than three or more than three annular sub-bands, even in addition to annular sub-bands. The arrangement patterns of the

lamp beads

511a, 511b, 511c, 511d are substantially the same for the

different lamp strips

51a, 51b, 51c, 51 d. Of course, the arrangement patterns of the lamp beads belonging to different lamp strips may also be at least partially different.

According to a preferred embodiment, the light source 5 comprises light emitting elements emitting white light, red light, green light and blue light, respectively. In particular, as shown in fig. 4, the light strip 51a emits red light (high angle); the light strip 51b emits green light (medium angle); the light strip 51c emits white light (medium and low angle); the light strip 51d emits blue light (low angle). Different colors can be irradiated from different angles, so that the three-dimensional information of the part to be detected can be effectively highlighted. Preferably, in terms of control, the light-emitting members (the

light strips

51a, 51b, 51c, 51d) may emit in combination, in addition to emitting individually, so as to emit light of other colors, for example, based on the principle of three primary colors.

According to a preferred embodiment, the light that the light source 5 is capable of emitting, in particular light of each color, has an adjustable intensity.

Indeed, in these and other embodiments, the camera 4 itself may have a flash and/or a position light, etc. Thus, the light source 5 does not belong to such a flash and/or positioning light or the like, but additionally is a discrete feature with respect to the camera 4 and/or its flash illumination and positioning illumination or the like.

For the adjustment and locking of the position and attitude of the apparatus 1, the apparatus 1 comprises an attitude adjusting device 6 and a position adjusting device 7, the detecting device 3 is coupled to the attitude adjusting device 6, and the attitude adjusting device 6 is coupled to the position adjusting device 7.

Referring now to fig. 5A-6B, fig. 5A-6B show schematic or cross-sectional views of at least a portion of a pose adjustment apparatus 6 of an apparatus 1 for rating data matrix codes on parts according to some embodiments of the present invention. The attitude adjustment device 6 includes a first section 61 and a second section 62, wherein the first section 61 and the second section 62 each include a

first portion

61a, 62a and a

second portion

61b, 62b that are relatively rotatable, wherein the two

first portions

61a, 62a are relatively rotatably connected, thereby forming three rotational degrees of freedom. Preferably, the three rotational degrees of freedom provided by the attitude adjustment means 6 each range from-180 ° to 180 °.

According to the embodiment of fig. 5A to 6B, both

first portions

61a, 62a comprise

prongs

611, 621, wherein the

prongs

611, 621 are hingedly connected such that the first section 61 and the second section 62 are rotatable relative to each other about a hinge axis H-H extending preferably substantially transverse to the

prongs

611, 621.

According to the embodiment of fig. 5A to 6B, at the opposite ends of the two

first portions

61a, 62a, remote from the relative rotational connection, the two

first portions

61a, 62a are respectively nestingly connected with the second portions 61B, 62B of the same segment, so that the

first portions

61a, 62a and the second portions 61B, 62B of the same segment are rotatable with respect to each other about respective nesting axes, preferably substantially perpendicular to the hinge axis H-H. The nesting may be the same or different in different segments. As shown in fig. 6A and 6B, in the nesting site 612 in the first section 61, the second portion 61B is nested within the first portion 61a, and in the nesting site 622 in the second section 62, the first portion 62a is nested within the second portion 62B.

According to a preferred embodiment, the attitude adjustment means 6 may remain locked by default. Preferably, the attitude adjusting device 6 is provided with a damping member at a rotation portion (such as the hinge portion of the above-described hinge connection and the nesting portions 612, 622). The damping member is configured to provide resistance against rotation so that the attitude adjusting device 6 achieves attitude retention by frictional damping action. As shown in fig. 6A and 6B, a damping member formed as a damping fin 601 is provided in a nesting portion 612 between the first portion 61a and the second portion 61B of the first section 61 of the posture adjustment device 6, a damping member formed as a damping fin 602 is provided in a nesting portion 622 between the first portion 62a and the second portion 62B of the second section 62 of the posture adjustment device 6, and a damping member formed as a damping fin 603 is provided in a hinge portion between the first section 61 and the second section 62 of the posture adjustment device 6. Preferably, at least one damping member (e.g., damping

fins

601, 602, 603) is compressed using a spring or screw. In this way, even if wear occurs, it can still function effectively before it must be replaced at last. As shown in fig. 6A and 6B, the

damper pieces

601 and 602 receive the action of the

springs

603 and 604 on one surface, respectively, and abut against the (inner) flange of the corresponding portion on the other surface. The damping plate 603 receives the action of the screw 605 on one side and abuts the (inner) surface of the respective fork on the other side.

According to a preferred embodiment, the posture adjustment device 6 is further provided with a scale at the outer surface of the rotation portion. As shown in fig. 5A and 5B, a scale 631 is provided on an outer surface of the nesting portion 612 between the first portion 61a and the second portion 61B of the first section 61 of the posture adjustment device 6, a scale 632 is provided on an outer surface of the nesting portion 622 between the first portion 62a and the second portion 62B of the second section 62 of the posture adjustment device 6, and a scale 633 is provided on an outer surface of the hinge portion between the first section 61 and the second section 62 of the posture adjustment device 6.

In fig. 5A to 6B, the coupling of the detection device 3 with the attitude adjustment device 6 according to some embodiments of the present invention is also shown. The camera 4 and the light source 5 of the detection apparatus 3 as shown in fig. 5A to 6B may be similar to the embodiments of fig. 3 and 4. The detection device 3 is coupled to the tip 62e of the second portion 62b of the second segment 62 of the attitude adjustment device 6. For coupling, the tip 62e is provided with a mounting tab 62 t. In one aspect, the mounting tab 62t is provided with apertures 62to (e.g., four are shown in fig. 5) extending therethrough for general alignment with apertures (not shown) of the side of the camera 4. On the other hand, the mounting tab 62t is provided with a notch 62ts on the opposite side to the side that mates with the camera 4 for mating with a mating tab (e.g., the mating tab 55 shown in fig. 3) extending from the end of the light source 5 that faces away from the light emission direction. Preferably, the coupling may use threaded fasteners.

Referring now to fig. 7, fig. 7 shows a schematic view of at least a part of a position adjustment arrangement 7 of an apparatus 1 for rating data matrix codes on a part according to some embodiments of the present invention. The position adjustment device 7 includes three

linear adjustment portions

71, 72, 73 each having a

guide body

71a, 72a, 73a and a

slide body

71b, 72b, 73b that slides substantially linearly on the

guide body

71a, 72a, 73 a. The guide body 71a of the first linear adjustment portion 71 is coupled to or forms part of the sliding body 72b of the second linear adjustment portion 72, and the guide body 72a of the second linear adjustment portion 72 is coupled to or forms part of the sliding body 73b of the third linear adjustment portion 73. For example, the guide body 73a of the third linear adjustment section 73 may be fixed with respect to the detection space S. In the illustrated embodiment, the first linear adjustment 71 provides a generally vertical z-direction degree of freedom, which may have a stroke of about 450 millimeters, and the second and third

linear adjustments

72, 73 provide a generally horizontal x, y direction degree of freedom, which may each have a stroke of about 500 millimeters.

According to a preferred embodiment, the position adjustment device 7 may be provided with a position sensor for providing a signal indicative of the position of the respective linear displacement. Preferably, the position sensor comprises a

grating scale

71s, 72s, 73s to provide a substantially consistent accurate indication signal over a large range of travel. In fig. 7, the scale portion of the grating scale 71s for the first linear adjustment portion 71 forms at least a part of the guide body 71a of the first linear adjustment portion 71, and the head portion of the position sensor 71s of the first linear adjustment portion 71 forms at least a part of the slide body 71b of the first linear adjustment portion 71. The rule portion of the position sensor 72s for the second linear adjustment portion 72 is located between the two guide bodies 72a of the second linear adjustment portion 72 and extends substantially in parallel therewith. The rule portions of the two position sensors 73s (although, only one of them may be used) for the third linear adjustment portion 73 are located outside the guide body 73a of the third linear adjustment portion 73, and extend substantially in parallel therewith.

According to a preferred embodiment, the position adjustment means 7 may by default remain locked. Preferably, the position adjusting device 7 is provided with a locking member in the linear adjustment section. The locking member is configured to provide resistance against relative sliding such that the position adjustment device 7 achieves position retention by a locking action. In fig. 7, a locking member in the form of a pneumatic caliper 701 is provided between the guide body 71a and the slide body 71b of the first linear adjustment portion 71; a locking member in the form of a pneumatic pincer 702 is disposed between the guide body 72a and the slide body 72b of the second linear adjustment portion 72; a locking member in the form of a pneumatic clamp 703 is provided between the guide body 73a and the slide body 73b of the third linear adjustment portion 73. The pneumatic clamps 701, 702, 703 are pneumatically operated, unlocked when pneumatic pressure is supplied thereto, and locked when no pneumatic pressure is supplied thereto. Preferably, the air supply system for operating the pneumatic caliper provides a pressure of about 0.6-0.7MPa and is normally closed, for example by a valve (e.g., a two-position, single electrically controlled solenoid valve).

In fig. 7, the coupling of the attitude adjusting means 6 and the position adjusting means 7 according to some embodiments of the present invention is also shown. The posture adjustment device 6 as shown in fig. 7 may be similar to the embodiment of fig. 5A to 6B. The second portion 61b (particularly in a rod-like configuration) of the first segment 61 of the attitude adjusting device 6 is coupled to or formed as part of the sliding body 71b of the first linear adjustment portion 71.

Referring now to fig. 8, fig. 8 shows a cut-away perspective view of at least a portion of a pneumatic caliper 101 of a position adjustment device 7 that may be used in an apparatus 1 for rating data matrix codes on parts according to some embodiments of the present invention. The example pneumatic pincer 101 is fitted onto the example rail 20 (e.g., as may be used to form the

guide bodies

71a, 72a, and/or 73a), and specifically includes a wedge drive mechanism 102, a pincer jaw 103, a housing 104, a pneumatic piston 105, and a spring 106. The wedge drive 102 transmits force between the piston 105 and the jaw 103. The jaws 103 snap onto the free surface of the rail 20. The housing 104 includes a mounting face. The piston 105 moves the wedge actuator 102 in the longitudinal direction. The spring 106 may be charged for closing the clamping jaws 103 without pneumatic pressure.

Referring now to fig. 9A and 9B, fig. 9A and 9B show schematic views of at least a portion of an interactive interface 8 of an apparatus 1 for rating data matrix codes on parts, according to some embodiments of the present invention. In particular, the device 1 may comprise various forms of interactive interfaces 8 for monitoring and/or manipulation of the device 1.

According to the embodiment of fig. 9A, at least some of the buttons and knobs that may be included in the interactive interface 8 are shown. For example, the button 801 is an unlock button configured (e.g., via appropriate electromechanical control) to enable unlocking of the locking component if the unlock button is pressed in the operational state of the device, and to maintain locking if the device is not in the operational state and/or if the unlock button is not pressed. In the preferred embodiment of the pneumatic pincer described above, pneumatic pressure is supplied to the pneumatic pincer when the unlock button is pressed in the operational state of the device, and no pneumatic pressure is supplied to the pneumatic pincer when the device is not in the operational state and/or when the unlock button is not pressed. The

knobs

802, 803, 804, 805 are light intensity adjusting knobs, which can be used to adjust the intensity of red light, green light, blue light, white light, respectively, wherein these lights can be emitted by corresponding ones of the

light strips

51a, 51b, 51c, 51d, for example, as described above.

According to the embodiment of fig. 9B, at least a portion of a display screen that may be included in the interactive interface 8 is shown. For example, the indicating section 811 is an indicating section that reports the position of the corresponding linear displacement. The instruction unit 812 clears the position of the corresponding linear displacement. The indicator 813 is an indicator that turns on and off the light source as a whole. The indicator 814 is an indicator that each color of the light source is turned on and off. For the display screen shown in fig. 9B, it may be a touch screen that is interacted with by hand, or it may be interacted with by means of another device, such as a mouse.

Fig. 10 shows a schematic view of at least a part of an apparatus 1 for rating a data matrix code on a part according to some embodiments of the present invention. The device 1 comprises a detection housing C, in particular substantially C-shaped. The detection enclosure C defines a detection space S for receiving a part to be detected provided with a data matrix code. In this case, the guide body 73a of the third linear adjustment section 73 of the position adjustment device 7 is coupled to (fixed with respect to) the detection housing C. For example, the position adjusting device 7 is located in the upper portion of the detection housing C. The attitude adjusting device 6 is coupled to the position adjusting device 7. The detection device 5 is coupled to the attitude adjustment device 6. For example, the configurations, couplings, and the like of the detection device 5, the posture adjustment device 6, the position adjustment device 6 may be the same as or similar to those of the above-described embodiment.

In an embodiment not shown, the device 1 comprises a light-shielding curtain for shielding the illumination in the external environment, for example to cover the detection space S from interference, i.e. to form an advantageous dark room. In the case of the above-described C-shaped inspection cabinet, the window blind is configured to cover at least the front side and both lateral sides thereof.

Referring back to fig. 1 and 10, the device 1 comprises processing means 2, for example a computer, for rating the data matrix code based on the acquired images. For clarity, known algorithms for image segmentation, recognition, etc. in rank assessment are not described herein.

An exemplary method of operation of the apparatus 1 is described below.

As mentioned above, the data matrix code on the part can be rated using the device 1 of the invention.

A method according to some embodiments of the invention may include providing a part to be inspected provided with a data matrix code. For example, a part to be detected provided with a data matrix code is placed in the detection space. For example, the data matrix codes provided on the part to be detected may have different directional orientations. For example, in embodiments where the apparatus includes a test housing, the part to be tested provided with the data matrix code may be placed within a test space defined by the test housing.

A method according to some embodiments of the invention may include adjusting the inspection device to be proximate to the data matrix code of the part to be inspected such that at least a camera of the inspection device is substantially aligned with the data matrix code. For example, the adjusting includes changing at least one of a position and/or a pose of the detection device.

A method according to some embodiments of the invention may include image acquisition with a camera of at least a data matrix code of a part to be detected received in an inspection space. For example, image acquisition is performed with the part to be detected being illuminated with the light source of the detection apparatus.

A method according to some embodiments of the invention may comprise ranking the data matrix code based on the acquired image.

Methods according to some embodiments of the invention may include (for example and without limitation, in the event that the expected rating does not correspond to the rated rating or the image is not in clear focus, etc.) performing at least two image acquisitions of the part, wherein, between image acquisitions: changing the color of the light source for illumination of the part to be detected, for example, for fill light optimization, so that in some cases, the change of the color of the light source herein may also involve illumination from no illumination; and/or readjust at least one of the position and the posture of the detection device, for example, to make the camera reach an optimal photographing region to find out the optimal state of the camera. For example, the intensity of the light source illuminating the part to be inspected may also be varied between image acquisitions. For example, a corresponding rating may also be performed after the image acquisition.

Methods according to some embodiments of the invention may include ranking the data matrix code on the second part, wherein the color of the light source illuminating the second part to be detected is different from that of the previous part. For example, the intensity of the light source illuminating the second part to be inspected may also be different from that of the previous part.

Methods according to some embodiments of the invention may include confirming that the inspection device is in a default position prior to providing the part to be inspected. For example, in the case where the detecting means includes the above position adjusting means, the default position may correspond to an upper stroke end on the Z axis, one stroke end on the Y axis, and one stroke end on the X axis. For example, the inspection device is adjusted to be in the default position if it is not confirmed that it is in the default position before the part to be inspected is provided.

Methods according to some embodiments of the invention may include masking the detection space from the external environment during image acquisition with a window blind. For example, in the case of the above-described C-shaped inspection cabinet, a window blind is provided to cover at least the front side and both lateral sides thereof.

Methods according to some embodiments of the invention may include actuating an unlocking member at least during adjusting the position in the position and the attitude of the detection device. For example, the unlocking means comprise an unlocking button belonging to the interactive interface.

It is noted that the method steps do not have to be performed in the depicted sequence without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

The applicant has found that particularly in the case of unclear/missing machining of codes on the surface of cast aluminum parts, for example, several color light mixing adjustments are generally required to make the image acquisition picture clear, thereby facilitating confirmation of specific quality problems of the codes.

By utilizing the equipment and the method for grading the data matrix code on the part, the integrated light source module which can be controlled to emit different lights is utilized to supplement light for the difficult DMC code, so that the detection capability of the equipment can be improved, therefore, different lights or a plurality of light sources are respectively irradiated for the code which needs special analysis, and the problem that quality evaluation cannot be well given to some special codes can be solved; the device has multiple degrees of freedom and corresponding flexible operation; accuracy can be improved by performing image acquisition and thus evaluation in a space relatively closed with respect to light.

The foregoing is illustrative of the present invention and is not to be construed as limiting thereof. Although exemplary embodiments of this invention have been described, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of this invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this invention as defined in the claims. The invention is defined by the following claims, with equivalents of the claims to be included therein.

Claims

1. An apparatus for rating a data matrix code on a part, the apparatus comprising a detection device comprising a camera and a light source, wherein the detection device is configured to be capable of adjusting a position and a posture and the position and posture of the detection device remains fixed by default when not adjusted, the camera is configured for acquiring an image of at least the data matrix code of the part to be inspected, and the light source is configured for being capable of emitting light of at least two different colors for illumination of at least the data matrix code in dependence of a control.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the light source is arranged to surround the camera.

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the light source comprises a housing extending from a first end to a second end and at least two light emitting elements arranged inside the housing at different positions.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the primary emission direction of the glowing member is at an oblique angle to the central longitudinal axis of the light source.

5. A device according to claim 3, wherein the light emitting members are formed as a strip of annular light arranged successively along a central longitudinal axis of the light source.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the light source comprises light emitting elements that emit white light, red light, green light, and blue light, respectively.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least two different colors of light are configured to be emitted individually or in combination according to a control.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises an attitude adjustment device and a position adjustment device, the detection device being coupled to the attitude adjustment device, the attitude adjustment device being coupled to the position adjustment device.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the attitude adjustment device includes a first section and a second section, the first and second sections each including a first portion and a second portion that are relatively rotatable, and the first portions of the first and second sections being relatively rotatably connected.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the first portion of the first segment and the first portion of the second segment each comprise a fork hingedly connected such that the first segment and the second segment are rotatable relative to each other about a hinge axis.

11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein at opposite ends of the two first portions distal from the relative rotational connection, the two first portions are each nestingly connected with the second portion of the same segment such that the first and second portions of the same segment are rotatable relative to each other about respective nesting axes.

12. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the posture-adjustment device is provided with a damping member at a rotation portion, the damping member being configured to provide resistance against rotation, so that the posture-adjustment device achieves posture-holding by a friction damping action.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the at least one dampening member is compressed with a spring or screw.

14. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the detection device is coupled to a distal end of the second portion of the second segment of the pose adjustment device.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the tip is provided with a mounting tab, wherein the mounting tab is provided with an aperture extending therethrough for generally aligning with an aperture of a side of the camera, and the mounting tab is provided with a notch on an opposite side for mating with the camera for mating with a tab extending from an end of the light source facing away from the direction of light emission.

16. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the position adjustment device comprises three linear adjustments, each having a guide body and a sliding body that slides substantially linearly on the guide body, wherein the guide body of a first linear adjustment is coupled to or forms part of the sliding body of a second linear adjustment, and the guide body of the second linear adjustment is coupled to or forms part of the sliding body of a third linear adjustment.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the position adjustment device is provided with a locking member in the linear adjustment section, the locking member being configured to provide resistance against relative sliding such that the position adjustment device achieves position retention by a locking action.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the locking component comprises a pneumatic clamp configured to provide locking with an internal spring when not receiving pneumatic pressure supply and to unlock when receiving pneumatic pressure supply.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the air supply system for operating the pneumatic pincer provides a pressure of about 0.6-0.7MPa and is normally off.

20. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the attitude adjustment device comprises a first section and a second section, each of which comprises a first portion and a second portion that are relatively rotatable, and the first portion of the first section and the first portion of the second section are relatively rotatably connected, wherein the second portion of the first section of the attitude adjustment device is coupled to or formed as part of the sliding body of the first linear adjustment portion.

21. The device according to any of claims 17-19, wherein the device comprises an unlock button belonging to the interactive interface, wherein the locking means is configured to unlock if the unlock button is pressed in the operational state of the device, and wherein the locking means is configured to remain locked if the device is not in the operational state and/or if the unlock button is not pressed.

22. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the apparatus includes a detection housing defining a detection space for receiving a part to be detected provided with a data matrix code.

23. The apparatus according to claim 22, wherein the position adjustment device comprises three linear adjustment portions, each having a guide body and a sliding body that slides substantially linearly on the guide body, wherein the guide body of a first linear adjustment portion is coupled to or forms part of the sliding body of a second linear adjustment portion, the guide body of the second linear adjustment portion is coupled to or forms part of the sliding body of a third linear adjustment portion, wherein the guide body of the third linear adjustment portion of the position adjustment device is coupled to the detection housing.

24. The device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises a window blind for shading light in the external environment.

25. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises processing means for ranking the data matrix code based on the acquired image.

26. A method for rating a data matrix code on a part using an apparatus according to any of claims 1-25, comprising at least the steps of: providing a part to be detected provided with a data matrix code; adjusting the detection device to be close to the data matrix code of the part to be detected, so that at least a camera of the detection device is approximately aligned with the data matrix code; acquiring an image of at least a data matrix code of a part to be detected by using a camera; and ranking the data matrix code based on the acquired image.

27. The method of claim 26, further comprising performing at least two image acquisitions of the part, wherein the color of the light source illuminating the part to be detected is changed between image acquisitions.

28. The method of claim 26, wherein the part is a first part, the method further comprising ranking the data matrix code on a second part, wherein the color of the light source illuminating the second part to be detected is different from that of the first part.

29. The method of claim 26, wherein the method further comprises shielding the detection space from the external environment with a window blind during image acquisition.

30. The method of claim 26, further comprising actuating the unlocking member at least during adjusting the position of the detection device and the position of the gesture.