EP1647337A1 - Apparatus and method for sorting articles - Google Patents

Apparatus and method for sorting articles Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP1647337A1
EP1647337A1 EP05022662A EP05022662A EP1647337A1 EP 1647337 A1 EP1647337 A1 EP 1647337A1 EP 05022662 A EP05022662 A EP 05022662A EP 05022662 A EP05022662 A EP 05022662A EP 1647337 A1 EP1647337 A1 EP 1647337A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
sorting
piece goods
radiation
signal
characteristic
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP05022662A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1647337B1 (en
Inventor
Peter Gantze
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Mami Modern Allround Management International
Original Assignee
Mami Modern Allround Management International
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Mami Modern Allround Management International filed Critical Mami Modern Allround Management International
Priority to AT05022662T priority Critical patent/ATE432777T1/en
Publication of EP1647337A1 publication Critical patent/EP1647337A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1647337B1 publication Critical patent/EP1647337B1/en
Not-in-force legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B07—SEPARATING SOLIDS FROM SOLIDS; SORTING
    • B07C—POSTAL SORTING; SORTING INDIVIDUAL ARTICLES, OR BULK MATERIAL FIT TO BE SORTED PIECE-MEAL, e.g. BY PICKING
    • B07C5/00—Sorting according to a characteristic or feature of the articles or material being sorted, e.g. by control effected by devices which detect or measure such characteristic or feature; Sorting by manually actuated devices, e.g. switches
    • B07C5/34—Sorting according to other particular properties
    • B07C5/346—Sorting according to other particular properties according to radioactive properties

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a sorting device and a sorting method for piece goods, which is introduced via a conveyor belt or the like, wherein the piece goods are exposed to X-radiation and emitted from the unit X-ray radiation is measured, and wherein a sorting process is controlled on the basis of the measurement signal.
  • a sorting system for various types of waste paper which supplies the pieces of paper with a conveyor belt to an irradiation device.
  • This has two radiation sources, as well as a detector which detects the radiation emanating from the sample.
  • the radiation source both visible light, infrared radiation and X-rays can be used.
  • the detector may be a simple camera, but also a device with which the wavelength of the emitted measuring radiation can be detected.
  • an air nozzle is actuated with which the piece goods are conveyed into different containers.
  • a sorting plant for crops is known, with which, for example, potatoes can be separated from stones and other impurities.
  • the mixture of rocks, crops, and soil is fed to a well in which it passes through the radiation field of a radiation source (e.g., X-rays).
  • a radiation source e.g., X-rays
  • the different attenuation of the output radiation due to the different material densities is measured and used as a control signal for deflecting elements, which sort out the stones and impurities.
  • the sorting method is suitable only for piece goods with sufficiently different material density or for materials with distinguishable absorption coefficients for the radiation used.
  • the object of the invention is, starting from known sorting and sorting devices to propose improvements that allow sorting material with very similar values for the material density or similar penetration depth for the ionizing radiation used safely separated even at a rapid throughput, the analysis effort should be kept low ,
  • This object is achieved in that the measurement is limited to one or a few characteristic X-ray emission lines of a predetermined chemical element in the piece goods whose radiation intensity is detected with a single-channel measurement and from an analog measurement signal is derived, based on a predetermined threshold of the analog Measuring signal of the sorting process is initiated.
  • the advantage is that no X-ray fluorescence analysis has to be carried out since, in the best case, the sorting process is based on the measurement of only one characteristic X-ray emission line whose intensity is detected with a single-channel measurement. In the separation of PET bottles and vinyl bottles is sufficient, for. the measurement of the intensity of the CI K ⁇ line to win a unique sorting signal.
  • At least one reference measured value in the emission spectrum outside the energy range of the characteristic X-ray emission line is detected with a single-channel measurement and at least one analog reference signal is derived therefrom.
  • the measurement signal can be normalized with the aid of the reference signal.
  • the reference signal can be obtained in the region of the anode radiation.
  • a sorting device is characterized in that the detection device has at least one energy-dispersive detector, which is followed by at least one single-channel analyzer, which is set to a characteristic X-ray emission line of a predetermined chemical element in the piece goods, the analog measurement signal optionally via a control and Evaluation device controls the sorting device.
  • the detector is followed by at least one further single-channel analyzer, which is set to a region outside the energy range of the characteristic X-ray emission line whose analog reference signal is used to normalize the measurement signal.
  • the sorting device for piece goods 1 shown in FIG. 1 has a conveying device (not shown) with a conveyor belt 2, with which the piece goods 1 are moved in the direction of movement 3.
  • the conveyor belt 2 is an X-ray source 4 for exciting the piece goods 1 with X-radiation, and associated with a detection device 5 for detecting the output of the piece goods 1 measuring radiation.
  • the detection device 5 has at least one energy-dispersive detector 5 ', which is followed by a Einkanalanalysator 6, which is set to a characteristic X-ray emission line of a predetermined chemical element in the article 1.
  • the analogue output signal of the single-channel analyzer 6 is fed either directly or via a control and evaluation device 7 to a sorting device 8.
  • the sorting device 8 has a drive 9 for a pivotable flap 10, so that upon reaching a predetermined threshold value in the analog measurement signal of the sorting process can be triggered.
  • a drive 9 for a pivotable flap 10 so that upon reaching a predetermined threshold value in the analog measurement signal of the sorting process can be triggered.
  • other known sorting devices can be used, for example, air nozzles, which are controlled by the signal of the control and evaluation device 7.
  • the energy-dispersive detector 5 ' is followed by at least one further single-channel analyzer 11, which is set to a region outside the energy range of the characteristic X-ray emission line whose analog reference signal is used to normalize the measurement signal.
  • a ratio signal can be formed in the control and evaluation unit 7 from the measurement signal and the reference signal.
  • the output signal of the detector 5 ' is fed via a preamplifier 12 to a discriminator circuit, which in the example shown supplies the fluorescence spectrum in six Energy window decomposed.
  • a discriminator circuit which in the example shown supplies the fluorescence spectrum in six Energy window decomposed.
  • One of the single-channel measurements takes place in the area of the CI emission line, others in the area of the flanks or the top of the Fe line.
  • the single-channel measurements outside the Cl line are used to standardize the measurement signal.
  • Fig. 3 shows a section of the sorting device transverse to the width b of the conveyor belt 2, wherein in a linear sequence detectors 5 'and x-ray sources 4 are arranged so that the cargo 1 on the conveyor belt 2 are subjected to the smallest possible radiation exposure to the environment as homogeneously as possible with x-rays can.
  • Fig. 4 is shown as a measurement example, the measurement of a vinyl-plastic bottle containing chlorine.
  • the bottle In the field of view of the detector field, the bottle generates a Cl signal whose signal height depends on the distance between the measuring spot on the bottle and the detectors, and on the different thickness of the material in the neck and bottom area.
  • a PET plastic bottle would not generate a signal, so that a sorting process can be initiated due to the analog measurement signal from the detectors.
  • FIG. 5 shows a fluorescence spectrum of a sample with chlorine, as well as a sample without chlorine, wherein the energy in keV is plotted on the x-axis.
  • the chlorine K ⁇ line is clearly recognizable at 2.6 keV, which is absent in the sample without chlorine (solid line).
  • the peak to the right of the chlorine line comes from the Bremsstrahlung of the X-ray tube.
  • FIG. 6 shows the attainable detection limit (minimum detection level) for chlorine, whereby an MDL of less than 1% can be achieved.

Landscapes

  • Analysing Materials By The Use Of Radiation (AREA)
  • Sorting Of Articles (AREA)
  • Warehouses Or Storage Devices (AREA)
  • Control Of Vending Devices And Auxiliary Devices For Vending Devices (AREA)
  • Discharge Of Articles From Conveyors (AREA)

Abstract

A loose goods (1) sorting unit has an energy dispersive detector (5) unit (5) with single channel analyser (6) set to the characteristic X ray (4) emission line of a chemical element in the part and producing an analogue signal to control (7) the sorter (8) by comparison with a reference channel (11).

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Sortiervorrichtung und ein Sortierverfahren für Stückgut, welches über ein Förderband oder dergleichen herangeführt wird, wobei das Stückgut mit Röntgenstrahlung beaufschlagt und die vom Stückgut ausgehende Röntgenstrahlung gemessen wird, und wobei auf der Basis des Messsignals ein Sortiervorgang gesteuert wird.The invention relates to a sorting device and a sorting method for piece goods, which is introduced via a conveyor belt or the like, wherein the piece goods are exposed to X-radiation and emitted from the unit X-ray radiation is measured, and wherein a sorting process is controlled on the basis of the measurement signal.

Aus der US 6,506,991 B1 ist beispielsweise eine Sortieranlage für verschiedene Arten von Altpapier bekannt, welche die Papierstücke mit einem Förderband einer Bestrahlungseinrichtung zuführt. Diese weist zwei Strahlungsquellen, sowie einen Detektor auf, welcher die von der Probe ausgehende Strahlung detektiert. Für die Strahlungsquelle kann sowohl sichtbares Licht, Infrarotstrahlung als auch Röntgenstrahlung verwendet werden kann. Abgestimmt auf die Strahlungsquelle kann der Detektor eine einfache Kamera sein, jedoch auch eine Einrichtung, mit welcher die Wellenlänge der emittierten Messstrahlung erfasst werden kann. In Abhängigkeit des von der Analyseeinrichtung erfassten Messsignals wird beispielsweise eine Luftdüse angesteuert, mit welcher das Stückgut in unterschiedliche Behälter befördert wird.From US Pat. No. 6,506,991 B1, for example, a sorting system for various types of waste paper is known, which supplies the pieces of paper with a conveyor belt to an irradiation device. This has two radiation sources, as well as a detector which detects the radiation emanating from the sample. For the radiation source both visible light, infrared radiation and X-rays can be used. Tuned to the radiation source, the detector may be a simple camera, but also a device with which the wavelength of the emitted measuring radiation can be detected. Depending on the measurement signal detected by the analysis device, for example, an air nozzle is actuated with which the piece goods are conveyed into different containers.

Weiters ist aus der US 3,872,306 eine Sortieranlage für Feldfrüchte bekannt, mit welcher beispielsweise Kartoffeln von Steinen und andere Verunreinigungen separiert werden können. Die Mischung aus Steinen, Feldfrüchten und Erde wird einem Schacht zugeführt, in welchem diese das Strahlungsfeld einer Strahlungsquelle (z.B. Röntgenstrahlung) durchsetz. Die unterschiedliche Abschwächung der Ausgangsstrahlung aufgrund der unterschiedlichen Materialdichten wird gemessen und als Steuersignal für Ablenkelemente verwendet, die die Steine und Verunreinigungen aussortieren. Das Sortierverfahren eignet sich nur für Stückgut mit genügend unterschiedlicher Materialdichte bzw. für Materialien mit unterscheidbaren Absorptionskoeffizienten für die verwendete Strahlung.Furthermore, from US 3,872,306 a sorting plant for crops is known, with which, for example, potatoes can be separated from stones and other impurities. The mixture of rocks, crops, and soil is fed to a well in which it passes through the radiation field of a radiation source (e.g., X-rays). The different attenuation of the output radiation due to the different material densities is measured and used as a control signal for deflecting elements, which sort out the stones and impurities. The sorting method is suitable only for piece goods with sufficiently different material density or for materials with distinguishable absorption coefficients for the radiation used.

Schließlich ist aus der US 5,339,962 ein Separator für Abfälle (u.a. Polyester und PVC) bekannt, welcher eine elektromagnetische Strahlungsquelle, beispielsweise eine Röntgenröhre, aufweist und auf unterschiedlichen Absorptionswerten und Eindringtiefen der verwendeten Strahlung in den unterschiedlichen Materialien basiert.Finally, from US 5,339,962 a separator for waste (including polyester and PVC) is known, which has an electromagnetic radiation source, such as an X-ray tube, and at different absorption levels and Penetration depths of the radiation used in the different materials based.

Aufgabe der Erfindung ist es, ausgehend von bekannten Sortierverfahren und Sortiervorrichtungen Verbesserungen vorzuschlagen, die es erlauben Sortiergut mit sehr ähnlichen Werten für die Materialdichte bzw. ähnlicher Eindringtiefe für die verwendete ionisierende Strahlung auch bei raschem Durchsatz sicher zu trennen, wobei der Analysenaufwand gering gehalten werden soll.The object of the invention is, starting from known sorting and sorting devices to propose improvements that allow sorting material with very similar values for the material density or similar penetration depth for the ionizing radiation used safely separated even at a rapid throughput, the analysis effort should be kept low ,

Diese Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß dadurch gelöst, dass die Messung auf eine oder wenige charakteristische Röntgenemissionslinien eines vorbestimmten chemischen Elementes im Stückgut beschränkt wird, deren Strahlungsintensität mit einer Einkanal-Messung erfasst und daraus ein analoges Messsignal abgeleitet wird, wobei auf der Basis eines vorgegebenen Schwellwertes des analogen Messsignals der Sortiervorgang eingeleitet wird. Der Vorteil besteht darin, dass keine Röntgenfluoreszenzanalyse durchgeführt werden muss, da der Sortiervorgang im günstigsten Fall auf der Messung nur einer charakteristische Röntgenemissionslinien basiert, deren Intensität mit einer Einkanal-Messung erfasst wird. Bei der Trennung von PET-Flaschen und Vinylflaschen genügt z.B. die Messung der Intensität der CI Kα-Linie um ein eindeutiges Sortiersignal gewinnen zu können.This object is achieved in that the measurement is limited to one or a few characteristic X-ray emission lines of a predetermined chemical element in the piece goods whose radiation intensity is detected with a single-channel measurement and from an analog measurement signal is derived, based on a predetermined threshold of the analog Measuring signal of the sorting process is initiated. The advantage is that no X-ray fluorescence analysis has to be carried out since, in the best case, the sorting process is based on the measurement of only one characteristic X-ray emission line whose intensity is detected with a single-channel measurement. In the separation of PET bottles and vinyl bottles is sufficient, for. the measurement of the intensity of the CI Kα line to win a unique sorting signal.

Von Vorteil ist es, wenn zumindest ein Referenzmesswert im Emissionsspektrum außerhalb des Energiebereiches der charakteristischen Röntgenemissionslinie mit einer Einkanal-Messung erfasst wird und daraus zumindest ein analoges Referenzsignal abgeleitet wird. Beispielsweise kann das Messsignal mit Hilfe des Referenzsignals normiert werden. Dazu kann das Referenzsignal im Bereich der Anodenstrahlung gewonnen werden.It is advantageous if at least one reference measured value in the emission spectrum outside the energy range of the characteristic X-ray emission line is detected with a single-channel measurement and at least one analog reference signal is derived therefrom. For example, the measurement signal can be normalized with the aid of the reference signal. For this purpose, the reference signal can be obtained in the region of the anode radiation.

Eine erfindungsgemäße Sortiervorrichtung zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass die Detektionseinrichtung zumindest einen energiedispersiven Detektor aufweist, welchem zumindest ein Einkanal-Analysator nachgeschaltet ist, welcher auf eine charakteristische Röntgenemissionslinie eines vorbestimmten chemischen Elementes im Stückgut eingestellt ist, dessen analoges Messsignal ggf. über eine Steuer- und Auswerteeinrichtung die Sortiereinrichtung ansteuert.A sorting device according to the invention is characterized in that the detection device has at least one energy-dispersive detector, which is followed by at least one single-channel analyzer, which is set to a characteristic X-ray emission line of a predetermined chemical element in the piece goods, the analog measurement signal optionally via a control and Evaluation device controls the sorting device.

Gemäß einer vorteilhaften Weiterbildung der erfindungsgemäßen Sortiervorrichtung ist dem Detektor zumindest ein weiterer Einkanal-Analysator nachgeschaltet, welcher auf einen Bereich außerhalb des Energiebereiches der charakteristischen Röntgenemissionslinie eingestellt ist, dessen analoges Referenzsignal zur Normierung des Messsignals dient.According to an advantageous development of the sorting device according to the invention, the detector is followed by at least one further single-channel analyzer, which is set to a region outside the energy range of the characteristic X-ray emission line whose analog reference signal is used to normalize the measurement signal.

Die Erfindung wird im Folgenden anhand von schematischen Darstellungen und Diagrammen näher erläutert. Es zeigen

Fig. 1
eine erfindungsgemäße Sortiervorrichtung für Stückgut,
Fig. 2
ein Detail aus Fig. 1 in schematischer Darstellung,
Fig. 3
eine Variante der erfindungsgemäßen Sortiervorrichtung in eine Ansicht quer zum Förderband,
Fig. 4
das Diagramm eines Messergebnisses, wobei der Chlorgehalt einer Probe in Prozent über die Breite b des Förderbandes aufgetragen ist,
Fig. 5
die Spektren von Proben mit und ohne Chlor, sowie
Fig. 6
ein Diagramm zur Ermittlung des Minimum Detection Levels (MDL) für Chlor.
The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to schematic representations and diagrams. Show it
Fig. 1
an inventive sorting device for general cargo,
Fig. 2
a detail of Fig. 1 in a schematic representation,
Fig. 3
a variant of the sorting device according to the invention in a view transverse to the conveyor belt,
Fig. 4
the diagram of a measurement result, wherein the chlorine content of a sample is plotted in percent across the width b of the conveyor belt,
Fig. 5
the spectra of samples with and without chlorine, as well
Fig. 6
a diagram for determining the minimum detection level (MDL) for chlorine.

Die in Fig. 1 dargestellte Sortiervorrichtung für Stückgut 1 weist eine nicht weiter dargestellte Fördereinrichtung mit einem Förderband 2 auf, mit welchem das Stückgut 1 in Bewegungsrichtung 3 herangeführt wird. Dem Förderband 2 ist eine Röntgenquelle 4 zur Anregung des Stückgutes 1 mit Röntgenstrahlung, sowie eine Detektionseinrichtung 5 zur Erfassung der vom Stückgut 1 ausgehenden Messstrahlung zugeordnet. Die Detektionseinrichtung 5 weist zumindest einen energiedispersiven Detektor 5' auf, welchem ein Einkanalanalysator 6 nachgeschaltet ist, der auf eine charakteristische Röntgenemissionslinie eines vorbestimmten chemischen Elementes im Stückgut 1 eingestellt ist. Das analoge Ausgangssignal des Einkanalanalysators 6 wird entweder direkt oder über eine Steuer- und Auswerteeinrichtung 7 einer Sortiereinrlchtung 8 zugeführt. Die Sortiereinrichtung 8 weist einen Antrieb 9 für eine verschwenkbare Klappe 10 auf, so dass bei Erreichen eines vorgegebenen Schwellwertes im analogen Messsignal der Sortiervorgang ausgelöst werden kann. Natürlich sind auch andere bekannte Sortiereinrichtungen einsetzbar, beispielsweise Luftdüsen, welche vom Signal der Steuer- und Auswerteeinrichtung 7 angesteuert werden.The sorting device for piece goods 1 shown in FIG. 1 has a conveying device (not shown) with a conveyor belt 2, with which the piece goods 1 are moved in the direction of movement 3. The conveyor belt 2 is an X-ray source 4 for exciting the piece goods 1 with X-radiation, and associated with a detection device 5 for detecting the output of the piece goods 1 measuring radiation. The detection device 5 has at least one energy-dispersive detector 5 ', which is followed by a Einkanalanalysator 6, which is set to a characteristic X-ray emission line of a predetermined chemical element in the article 1. The analogue output signal of the single-channel analyzer 6 is fed either directly or via a control and evaluation device 7 to a sorting device 8. The sorting device 8 has a drive 9 for a pivotable flap 10, so that upon reaching a predetermined threshold value in the analog measurement signal of the sorting process can be triggered. Of course, other known sorting devices can be used, for example, air nozzles, which are controlled by the signal of the control and evaluation device 7.

Gemäß Fig. 1 ist dem energiedispersiven Detektor 5' zumindest ein weiterer Einkanalanalysator 11 nachgeschaltet, welcher auf einen Bereich außerhalb des Energiebereiches der charakteristischen Röntgenemissionslinie eingestellt ist, dessen analoges Referenzsignal zur Normierung des Messsignals dient. Beispielsweise kann in der Steuer- und Auswerteeinheit 7 ein Verhältnissignal aus dem Messsignal und dem Referenzsignal gebildet werden.According to FIG. 1, the energy-dispersive detector 5 'is followed by at least one further single-channel analyzer 11, which is set to a region outside the energy range of the characteristic X-ray emission line whose analog reference signal is used to normalize the measurement signal. For example, a ratio signal can be formed in the control and evaluation unit 7 from the measurement signal and the reference signal.

Gemäß einer konkreten Ausführungsvariante (Fig. 2) wird das Ausgangssignal des Detektors 5' über einen Vorverstärker 12 einer Diskriminatorschaltung zugeführt, welche im dargestellten Beispiel das Fluoreszenzspektrum in sechs Energiefenster zerlegt. Eine der Einkanalmessungen erfolgt im Bereich der CI-Emissionslinie, andere im Bereich der Flanken oder der Spitze der Fe-Linie. Die Einkanalmessungen außerhalb der Cl-Linie dienen zur Normierung des Messsignals.According to a specific embodiment variant (FIG. 2), the output signal of the detector 5 'is fed via a preamplifier 12 to a discriminator circuit, which in the example shown supplies the fluorescence spectrum in six Energy window decomposed. One of the single-channel measurements takes place in the area of the CI emission line, others in the area of the flanks or the top of the Fe line. The single-channel measurements outside the Cl line are used to standardize the measurement signal.

Fig. 3 zeigt einen Ausschnitt der Sortiervorrichtung quer zur Breite b des Förderbandes 2, wobei in einer linearen Abfolge Detektoren 5' und Röntgenquellen 4 angeordnet sind, so dass das Stückgut 1 am Förderband 2 bei geringer Strahlenbelastung für die Umwelt möglichst homogen mit Röntgenstrahlung beaufschlagt werden kann.Fig. 3 shows a section of the sorting device transverse to the width b of the conveyor belt 2, wherein in a linear sequence detectors 5 'and x-ray sources 4 are arranged so that the cargo 1 on the conveyor belt 2 are subjected to the smallest possible radiation exposure to the environment as homogeneously as possible with x-rays can.

In Fig. 4 ist als Messbeispiel die Messung an eine Vinyl-Plastikflasche dargestellt, welche Chlor enthält. Im Sichtbereich des Detektorfeldes erzeugt die Flasche ein Cl-Signal, dessen Signalhöhe vom Abstand zwischen dem Messfleck auf der Flasche und den Detektoren, sowie von der unterschiedlichen Dicke des Materials im Hals- und Bodenbereich abhängt. Im Vergleich dazu würde eine PET-Plastikflasche kein Signal erzeugen, so dass aufgrund des analogen Messsignals der Detektoren ein Sortiervorgang eingeleitet werden kann.In Fig. 4 is shown as a measurement example, the measurement of a vinyl-plastic bottle containing chlorine. In the field of view of the detector field, the bottle generates a Cl signal whose signal height depends on the distance between the measuring spot on the bottle and the detectors, and on the different thickness of the material in the neck and bottom area. In comparison, a PET plastic bottle would not generate a signal, so that a sorting process can be initiated due to the analog measurement signal from the detectors.

In Fig. 5 ist ein Fluoreszenzspektrum einer Probe mit Chlor, sowie einer Probe ohne Chlor dargestellt, wobei auf der x-Achse die Energie in keV aufgetragen ist. Deutlich ist die Chlor Kα-Linie bei 2,6 keV erkennbar, welche bei der Probe ohne Chlor (durchgezogene Linie) fehlt. Der Peak rechts neben der Chlor-Linie stammt von der Bremsstrahlung der Röntgenröhre.FIG. 5 shows a fluorescence spectrum of a sample with chlorine, as well as a sample without chlorine, wherein the energy in keV is plotted on the x-axis. The chlorine Kα line is clearly recognizable at 2.6 keV, which is absent in the sample without chlorine (solid line). The peak to the right of the chlorine line comes from the Bremsstrahlung of the X-ray tube.

Schließlich zeigt Fig. 6 das erreichbare Detektionslimit (Minimum Detection Level) für Chlor, wobei ein MDL von unter 1% erreicht werden kann.Finally, FIG. 6 shows the attainable detection limit (minimum detection level) for chlorine, whereby an MDL of less than 1% can be achieved.

Claims (9)

Sortierverfahren für Stückgut (1), welches über ein Förderband (2) oder dergleichen herangeführt wird, wobei das Stückgut (1) mit Röntgenstrahlung beaufschlagt und die vom Stückgut (1) ausgehende Röntgenstrahlung gemessen wird, und wobei auf der Basis des Messsignals ein Sortiervorgang gesteuert wird, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Messung auf eine oder wenige charakteristische Röntgenemissionslinien eines vorbestimmten chemischen Elementes im Stückgut (1) beschränkt wird, deren Strahlungsintensität mit einer Einkanal-Messung erfasst und daraus ein analoges Messsignal abgeleitet wird, wobei auf der Basis eines vorgegebenen Schwellwertes des analogen Messsignals der Sortiervorgang eingeleitet wird.Sorting method for piece goods (1), which is introduced via a conveyor belt (2) or the like, wherein the piece goods (1) acted upon by X-radiation and the X-ray emitted by the piece goods (1) is measured, and wherein controlled on the basis of the measurement signal a sorting process is characterized in that the measurement is limited to one or a few characteristic X-ray emission lines of a predetermined chemical element in the article (1) whose radiation intensity is detected by a single-channel measurement and an analog measurement signal is derived therefrom, based on a predetermined threshold value of analog measuring signal of the sorting process is initiated. Sortierverfahren nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass zumindest ein Referenzmesswert im Emissionsspektrum außerhalb des Energiebereiches der charakteristischen Röntgenemissionslinie mit einer Einkanal-Messung erfasst wird und daraus zumindest ein analoges Referenzsignal abgeleitet wird.Sorting method according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one reference measured value in the emission spectrum outside the energy range of the characteristic X-ray emission line is detected with a single-channel measurement and at least one analog reference signal is derived therefrom. Sortierverfahren nach Anspruch 1 und 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Messsignal mit Hilfe des Referenzsignals normiert wird.Sorting method according to claim 1 and 2, characterized in that the measuring signal is normalized with the aid of the reference signal. Sortierverfahren nach Anspruch 2 oder 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Referenzsignal im Bereich der Anodenstrahlung gewonnen wird.Sorting method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the reference signal is obtained in the region of the anode radiation. Sortierverfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass zur Bestimmung von Chlor im Stückgut (1) die Intensität der Cl Kα-Linie gemessen wird.Sorting method according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that for the determination of chlorine in the article (1) the intensity of the Cl Kα-line is measured. Sortiervorrichtung für Stückgut (1) mit einer ein Förderband (2) aufweisenden Fördereinrichtung für das Stückgut (1), einer dem Förderband (2) zugeordneten Röntgenquelle (4) zur Anregung des Stückgutes (1) mit Röntgenstrahlung, einer Detektionseinrichtung (5) zur Erfassung der vom Stückgut (1) ausgehenden Messstrahlung und einer von den Messsignalen der Detektionseinrichtung (5) gesteuerten Sortiereinrichtung (8), dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Detektionseinrichtung (5) zumindest einen energiedispersiven Detektor (5') aufweist, welchem zumindest ein Einkanal-Analysator (6) nachgeschaltet ist, welcher auf eine charakteristische Röntgenemissionslinie eines vorbestimmten chemischen Elementes im Stückgut (1) eingestellt ist, dessen analoges Messsignal ggf. über eine Steuer- und Auswerteeinrichtung (7) die Sortiereinrichtung (8) ansteuert.Sorting device for piece goods (1) having a conveyor belt (2) having conveyor for the piece goods (1), a conveyor belt (2) associated X-ray source (4) for exciting the piece goods (1) with X-radiation, a detection device (5) for detecting the measuring radiation (1) emanating from the article (1) and a sorting device (8) controlled by the measuring signals of the detection device (5), characterized in that the detection device (5) comprises at least one energy-dispersive detector (5 ') to which at least one single-channel analyzer (5) 6), which is set to a characteristic X-ray emission line of a predetermined chemical element in the piece goods (1) whose analog measuring signal possibly via a control and evaluation device (7) controls the sorting device (8). Sortiervorrichtung nach Anspruch 6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass dem Detektor (5') zumindest ein weiterer Einkanal-Analysator (11) nachgeschaltet ist, welcher auf einen Bereich außerhalb des Energiebereiches der charakteristischen Röntgenemissionslinie eingestellt ist, dessen analoges Referenzsignal zur Normierung des Messsignals dient.Sorting device according to claim 6, characterized in that the detector (5 ') at least one further single-channel analyzer (11) is connected downstream, which is set to a region outside the energy range of the characteristic X-ray emission line whose analog reference signal is used to normalize the measurement signal. Sortiervorrichtung nach Anspruch 6 oder 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass eine lineare Abfolge von Detektoren (5') und Röntgenquellen (4) vorgesehen ist, welche quer bzw. schräg in Bezug auf die Bewegungsrichtung (3) des Förderbandes (2) angeordnet ist.Sorting device according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that a linear sequence of detectors (5 ') and X-ray sources (4) is provided, which is arranged transversely or obliquely with respect to the direction of movement (3) of the conveyor belt (2). Sortiervorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 6 bis 8, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der auf eine charakteristische Röntgenemissionslinie eingestellte Einkanal-Analysator (6) auf die CI Kα-Linie eingestellt ist.Sorting device according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the set on a characteristic X-ray emission line single-channel analyzer (6) is set to the CI Kα line.
EP05022662A 2004-10-18 2005-10-18 Apparatus and method for sorting articles Not-in-force EP1647337B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT05022662T ATE432777T1 (en) 2004-10-18 2005-10-18 SORTING DEVICE AND SORTING METHOD FOR PIECE GOODS

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT0174404A AT501020B8 (en) 2004-10-18 2004-10-18 SORTING DEVICE AND SORTING METHOD FOR PIECE GOODS

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1647337A1 true EP1647337A1 (en) 2006-04-19
EP1647337B1 EP1647337B1 (en) 2009-06-03

Family

ID=34596329

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP05022662A Not-in-force EP1647337B1 (en) 2004-10-18 2005-10-18 Apparatus and method for sorting articles

Country Status (3)

Country Link
EP (1) EP1647337B1 (en)
AT (2) AT501020B8 (en)
DE (2) DE202005003566U1 (en)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102009057119A1 (en) * 2009-12-08 2011-06-09 Titech Gmbh Apparatus and method for the separation of heavy, with undesirable compositions accumulating chunks
CN112007877A (en) * 2020-09-21 2020-12-01 绵阳市维博电子有限责任公司 Online detection and sorting system and method for radioactive pollutants

Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3356211A (en) * 1964-12-07 1967-12-05 Ted C Mathews Separation of ore particles preferentially coated with liquid fluorescent material
US3872306A (en) 1972-04-19 1975-03-18 Nat Res Dev Separating apparatus
EP0345949A2 (en) * 1988-05-06 1989-12-13 Gersan Establishment Sensing a narrow frequency band of radiation and examining objects or zones
US5339962A (en) 1990-10-29 1994-08-23 National Recovery Technologies, Inc. Method and apparatus for sorting materials using electromagnetic sensing
GB2280956A (en) * 1991-02-20 1995-02-15 Gersan Ets Detecting diamonds in a plurality of objects
DE4433937A1 (en) * 1994-09-23 1996-03-28 Martin Dipl Ing Huonker Marking and detection of plastics, for sorting purposes
US6266390B1 (en) * 1998-09-21 2001-07-24 Spectramet, Llc High speed materials sorting using x-ray fluorescence
US6506991B1 (en) 1999-04-30 2003-01-14 Binder & Co. Aktiengesellschaft Method and apparatus for sorting waste paper of different grades and conditions

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4136778A (en) * 1975-08-12 1979-01-30 Burlington Industries, Inc. Linen sorter
CA1242260A (en) * 1986-04-24 1988-09-20 Leonard Kelly Multisorting method and apparatus
US5314072A (en) * 1992-09-02 1994-05-24 Rutgers, The State University Sorting plastic bottles for recycling
US6765986B2 (en) * 2001-02-08 2004-07-20 Niton Corporation X-ray fluorescence analyzer

Patent Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3356211A (en) * 1964-12-07 1967-12-05 Ted C Mathews Separation of ore particles preferentially coated with liquid fluorescent material
US3872306A (en) 1972-04-19 1975-03-18 Nat Res Dev Separating apparatus
EP0345949A2 (en) * 1988-05-06 1989-12-13 Gersan Establishment Sensing a narrow frequency band of radiation and examining objects or zones
US5339962A (en) 1990-10-29 1994-08-23 National Recovery Technologies, Inc. Method and apparatus for sorting materials using electromagnetic sensing
GB2280956A (en) * 1991-02-20 1995-02-15 Gersan Ets Detecting diamonds in a plurality of objects
DE4433937A1 (en) * 1994-09-23 1996-03-28 Martin Dipl Ing Huonker Marking and detection of plastics, for sorting purposes
US6266390B1 (en) * 1998-09-21 2001-07-24 Spectramet, Llc High speed materials sorting using x-ray fluorescence
US6506991B1 (en) 1999-04-30 2003-01-14 Binder & Co. Aktiengesellschaft Method and apparatus for sorting waste paper of different grades and conditions

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102009057119A1 (en) * 2009-12-08 2011-06-09 Titech Gmbh Apparatus and method for the separation of heavy, with undesirable compositions accumulating chunks
EP2335837A1 (en) 2009-12-08 2011-06-22 Titech GmbH Device and method for separating heavy boulders with unwanted compositions
CN112007877A (en) * 2020-09-21 2020-12-01 绵阳市维博电子有限责任公司 Online detection and sorting system and method for radioactive pollutants
CN112007877B (en) * 2020-09-21 2024-04-30 中国兵器装备集团自动化研究所有限公司 On-line detection and separation system and method for radioactive pollutants

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1647337B1 (en) 2009-06-03
DE202005003566U1 (en) 2005-05-19
AT501020B1 (en) 2006-09-15
ATE432777T1 (en) 2009-06-15
DE502005007395D1 (en) 2009-07-16
AT501020A1 (en) 2006-05-15
AT501020B8 (en) 2007-02-15

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
DE69127412T2 (en) Contraband detection system using direct imaging using pulsed fast neutrons.
DE68915071T2 (en) Method and system for the detection of nitrogenous explosives by means of nuclear magnetic resonance absorption.
EP1877836B1 (en) Method and device for controlling hand luggage and other carried objects
DE69521613T2 (en) METHOD FOR DETERMINING THE SEALING PROFILE OF A DISC-SHAPED MATERIAL
EP2596341B1 (en) Neutron activation analysis with standardised probe container for determining the neutron flux
DE102019111463A1 (en) X-ray detector device and device for X-ray inspection of products, in particular food
DE112013006100T5 (en) Method for X-ray luminescence-mineral separation and X-ray luminescence sorter for performing the method
DE60310118T2 (en) SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATIC SORTING OF OBJECTS
WO2018024300A1 (en) Apparatus for identifying substances
DE19949656A1 (en) Separating scrap plastics from vehicles, electronics and other areas according to type, has two stages of separation which use sensors to determine material sort and position on a belt or carousel
DE60020214T2 (en) DEVICE AND METHOD FOR EXAMINING RADIOACTIVE RADIATION SOURCES IN A SAMPLE
WO2006000456A1 (en) Method for examining an item of luggage by using an x-ray diffraction process
DE69123337T2 (en) DEVICE FOR MEASURING THE CONTENT OF VARIOUS BULK MATERIAL COMPONENTS WITH PULSATING NEUTRON RADIATION AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING THE CONTENT WITH THIS DEVICE
EP1647337B1 (en) Apparatus and method for sorting articles
EP0096092B1 (en) Device for sorting metal pieces
EP3318339B1 (en) Device and method for sorting aluminium scrap
EP1522851A1 (en) Method for analysing automatically polymer wastes and automatic analysis apparatus
DE29719600U1 (en) Device for detecting inhomogeneities, in particular foreign bodies, in a material layer to be checked
DE19824039A1 (en) Testing for excessive radionuclide content in bulk rubble or earth, especially when decommissioning nuclear plant
EP2217946B1 (en) Device for the online determination of the contents of a substance, and method for using such a device
EP1526376A1 (en) Method and apparatus for determining a basis weight and/or a chemical composition of a conveyed material specimen
DE202020102172U1 (en) Conveyor with improved heavy parts detection
DE69315089T2 (en) DEVICE AND METHOD FOR DETECTING NITROGEN
DE3034543A1 (en) Determining quality classification esp. of timber radiographically - using summated values of readings over a specified zone
DE102023101173A1 (en) Device for separating foreign substances from products

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: AL BA HR MK YU

AKX Designation fees paid
17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20061019

RBV Designated contracting states (corrected)

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20061221

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: 8566

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: GERMAN

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 502005007395

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 20090716

Kind code of ref document: P

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090603

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090603

NLV1 Nl: lapsed or annulled due to failure to fulfill the requirements of art. 29p and 29m of the patents act
PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090603

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090603

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090603

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090903

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090603

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FD4D

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090603

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090603

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090603

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20091003

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090603

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090914

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090603

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090903

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20091003

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

BERE Be: lapsed

Owner name: M.A.M.I. MODERN ALLROUND MANAGEMENT INTERNATIONAL

Effective date: 20091031

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090603

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20100304

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20091031

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

Effective date: 20100630

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20091102

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20100501

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20091031

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20091031

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090904

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20091031

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20091018

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20091018

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090603

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20091018

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20091204

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090603

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20090603