JP2007237069A - Article sorting device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an article sorting device with reduced cost and size thereof by reducing CPU load, effectively using resources on a network, having superior reliability, and enabling a system flexibly meeting management requirement of traceability information to be constructed. <P>SOLUTION: The article sorting device is provided with a detection means10 having a detection region 11 on a transfer passage 5 for transferring an article W, and outputting detection signals expressing a quality status of the article passing through the region; individual detection information outputting means 22 and 23 which create individual detection information including first discrimination information corresponding to the article and detection signals of the article based on the detection signals, and outputs the information to an external data processing device 50; a result input means 24 inputting the processing result of the individual detection information processed by the data processing device 50, together with a second discrimination information; a judgment means 21a outputting a judgment result by judging correspondence of the first discrimination information to the second discrimination information; and a sorting control means 21b creating sorting signals by receiving the judgment result and processing result. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention is based on a detection signal corresponding to the amount of X-ray absorbed by an article passing through the detection area, the influence on the detection magnetic field, etc. The present invention relates to an article selection device that executes the pass / fail determination process.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is an article sorting device that sorts and distributes an article to any one of a plurality of distribution paths on the downstream side in the conveyance direction based on the result of foreign object detection, weighing, characteristic inspection, or the like. For example, in a production line for producing foods or the like, it is known that a plurality of articles are inspected for the presence of foreign matter and defective products are discharged out of the conveyance path. In addition, a method using metal detection or X-ray inspection is widely used as an article inspection method, or a predetermined measurement based on a detection signal, such as mass measurement using the X-ray absorption characteristics of the article. In some cases, the above-described calculation process is executed to determine whether the article is acceptable or not, and according to the result, sorting / discharging on the downstream side is executed.

  As this type of conventional article sorting apparatus, for example, as described in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-098653), state determinations such as a foreign matter contamination check, a check of missing items, and the number of pieces entered using X-ray In order to carry out the above, there is a method in which the detection value based on the X-ray detection level by each determination method is compared with a predetermined threshold value to determine the presence or absence of an article defect. In this X-ray inspection apparatus, an X-ray image creation process, an article defect determination process, a display control process, and the like are executed by the arithmetic CPU.

Further, as described in Patent Document 2 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 8-278256), an input signal from a one-dimensional line sensor camera is taken into an image processing apparatus having a shading correction unit and a binarization unit, and obtained there. There is also one for detecting scratches / defects in which a binary line data string is compressed into run-length data and transferred to a host computer, where two-dimensional image data is created.
JP 2002-0986653 A JP-A-8-278256

  However, in the conventional article sorting apparatus as described in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to execute high-load data processing such as X-ray image creation processing and article defect determination processing by an internal arithmetic CPU. Since the calculation CPU is heavily loaded, a high-performance calculation CPU is required, leading to high costs and an increase in the size of the apparatus. In addition, image processing and signal processing are rapidly evolving together with the increase in processing speed of devices, and the CPU processing speed is always increased as known by Moore's Law, There was a problem that the arithmetic program would become obsolete in a short period of time.

  On the other hand, in the conventional article sorting apparatus as described in Patent Document 2, the input signal from the one-dimensional line sensor camera is converted to run length data and transferred to the host computer via the queue buffer. Two-dimensional image data is created while pre-reading transfer data. Therefore, the host computer connected to the image processing apparatus using an external interface functions exclusively as a dedicated arithmetic CPU, and only an inexpensive personal computer can be used therefor. That is, the conventional article sorting apparatus is not tolerant of troubles in data transfer, troubles on the host side, and the like. In addition, when data transfer is not performed normally, the entire control cannot proceed, and the selection control cannot be established, so that a product that may be defective remains on the line. It was a cause of lowering reliability.

  Furthermore, in any of the above article sorting apparatuses, a system that can quickly and accurately grasp the detection information of a plurality of inspection lines and can flexibly respond to traceability information management requests for recent foods, etc. It was difficult.

  Therefore, the present invention eliminates the need for a high processing capacity CPU and reduces the cost, size and life of the article sorting device, while enabling other hardware resources on the network to be used effectively. Sorting equipment that can construct a system that can respond flexibly to traceability information management requests, etc., by determining whether the detection signal and the processing result correspond to each other. The purpose is to provide.

  In order to achieve the above object, the article sorting apparatus of the present invention includes (1) a detection unit that has a detection area on a conveyance path through which an article is conveyed and outputs a detection signal indicating the quality state of an article that passes through the detection area. And individual detection information including first detection information corresponding to the article and the detection signal of the article based on the detection signal of the detection means and outputting the individual detection information to an external data processing device Output means; result input means for inputting the processing result of the individual detection information calculated by the external data processing device together with second identification information corresponding to the processing result; the first identification signal; Judgment means for judging correspondence with the second identification signal and outputting the judgment result; and sorting control means for generating a sorting control signal in response to the judgment result and the processing result. .

  With this configuration, the individual detection information including the detection signal of the article and the first identification information is generated and output from the individual detection information output means to the external data processing device. On the other hand, the individual detection information is converted into the individual detection information by the external data processing device. The result of the arithmetic processing executed based on the result is input to the result input means together with the second identification information, and a sorting control signal is output based on the processing result and the second identification information. Therefore, an operation CPU for performing high load processing is not required for the article sorting apparatus, and the article sorting apparatus is small, long-life and low cost. Further, the determination means determines whether or not the first identification information and the second identification information correspond to each other, and the detection signal of the detection means is associated with the processing result from the external data processing apparatus, so that the data transfer However, the processing result data can be reliably reconstructed even if the order of arrival is somewhat out of order or the order of arrival is disturbed, reliable data communication is possible, and the product sorting apparatus is excellent in reliability. Note that the arithmetic processing executed in the external data processing device is, for example, arithmetic processing (for example, identification information and detection data generation processing and communication processing) executed in the article sorting device (for example, a processing load). This means a pass / fail determination process for each workpiece, image processing, measurement value calculation processing, statistical processing, or the like) or processing that cannot be processed in the article sorting apparatus. The individual detection information here may be information obtained by newly adding predetermined first identification information to the detection signal, or a part of the detection signal may be used as the first identification signal according to a predetermined rule. The second identification information is generated according to a predetermined rule by an external data processing device as identification information that can be associated with the first identification information. The first identification information and the second identification information The information may be the same identification information.

  In the present invention, (2) a communication interface circuit unit capable of forming a node on a predetermined local area network, and the external data that is another node on the local area network from the individual detection information output means It is preferable that the individual detection information is transmitted and output to a processing device, and the processing result is input from the external data processing device to the result input means. With this configuration, it is possible to execute calculation processing for selection control in units of individual detection information using an external data processing device connected to the network.

  In the present invention, it is preferable that (3) the individual detection information is output from the individual detection information output means, and the processing result of the arithmetic processing is the result within a predetermined time from the output time. A reception error notification means is provided for notifying that the reception input of the processing result has failed when it is not input to the input means. As a result, when the processing result of the arithmetic processing is not input to the result input means within a predetermined time after the individual detection information is output, it is notified that the processing result reception input has failed, so the selection control is confirmed. It becomes possible to do.

  In this case, further, (4) when the processing result reception error is notified by the reception error notification means, the selection control means sends the article to the conveyance path based on the notification information of the processing result reception error. It is preferable to generate a sorting control signal for sorting and discharging to the outside. As a result, it is possible to reliably prevent a situation in which sorting defects remain on the article conveyance path.

  In the present invention, (5) when the individual detection information is output from the individual detection information output means, from the time of the output until the article related to the output reaches a predetermined sorting position on the conveyance path In the meantime, it is also possible to provide reception error notification means for notifying that reception of the processing result has failed when the processing result of the arithmetic processing is not input to the result input means. With this configuration, when the processing result of the arithmetic processing is not input to the result input means after the individual detection information is output and before the article reaches the sorting position, the reception of the processing result has failed. Is notified, so that the selection control can be confirmed.

  Alternatively, in the present invention, (6) an article detection unit that detects that the article has reached a predetermined position upstream of a detection region of the detection unit on the conveyance path, and the article is included in the article detection unit. When the processing result of the arithmetic processing is not input to the result input means between the detection and the arrival of the article at a predetermined sorting position on the transport path, the reception input of the processing result has failed. You may provide the reception error alerting | reporting means to alert | report. With this configuration, when the processing result of the arithmetic processing is not input to the result input means after the article is detected by the article detection means and before the article reaches the sorting position, the processing result reception input fails. Since it has been notified, it becomes possible to confirm the selection control. Further, it is possible to clearly and easily set a standby period for receiving the processing result.

  (7) When the individual detection information output means needs to transmit and output the individual detection information to the external data processing device, it sends a response request signal to the external data processing device. Only when the response signal corresponding to the response request signal is received, the individual detection information may be transmitted and output to the external data processing device. Thereby, it is possible to start data communication after confirming that the communication path is established.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, the individual detection information including the article detection signal and the first identification information is generated and output from the individual detection information output means to the external data processing device, while corresponding to the individual detection information. Then, the result of the arithmetic processing executed by the external data processing device is input to the result input means together with the second identification information, and the determination result of the processing result and the correspondence between the first and second identification information is determined. Based on this, sorting control is performed to determine whether or not the articles are sorted and discharged to the outside of the conveyance path, eliminating the need for a high processing capacity CPU and reducing the cost of the article sorting apparatus and reducing the size and extending the service life. In addition, even if the data transfer order is disturbed, the detection signal of the detection means and the calculation processing result can be reliably associated with each other, and the management request for traceability information with excellent reliability can be flexibly applied. It is possible to provide an article sorting device capable build capable of meeting system.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to execute arithmetic processing for article selection control using an external data processing apparatus connected to a network.

  According to the invention of claim 3, when the processing result of the arithmetic processing is not input to the result input means within a predetermined time after the individual detection information is output, it is notified that the processing result reception input has failed. Sorting control can be confirmed.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, when the processing result reception error is notified by the reception error notification means, a selection control signal serving as a discharge command to the outside of the conveyance path is generated. The remaining situation can be surely prevented.

  According to the invention of claim 5, when the processing result of the arithmetic processing is not input to the result input means after the individual detection information is output and before the article reaches the sorting position, the processing result is received and input. Since the failure is notified, the sorting control can be confirmed.

  According to the invention of claim 6, when the processing result of the arithmetic processing is not input to the result input means after the article is detected by the article detection means and before the article reaches the sorting position, Since it is informed that the reception input has failed, the selection control can be confirmed, and the standby period for receiving the processing result can be clearly and easily set.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, reliable data communication can be started after confirming that a communication path has been established.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[First embodiment]
FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 are diagrams showing a first embodiment of an article sorting apparatus according to the present invention, and show an example in which the present invention is applied to an X-ray foreign object detection type apparatus.

  First, the configuration will be described.

  As shown in a schematic block diagram in FIG. 1, the article sorting apparatus 1 of the present embodiment has a detection area 11 on a conveyor conveyance path 5 that conveys a workpiece W that is an article, and passes through the detection area 11. Detection means 10 for outputting a detection signal indicating the quality state of the workpiece W to be detected, control means 20 for controlling the detection operation of the detection means 10, and a predetermined position (hereinafter referred to as “conveyance path 5” on the downstream side of the detection area 11). And a known sorter 40 capable of selectively discharging the workpiece W that has reached the sorting position from the conveyor conveyance path 5 to the outside.

  The conveyor conveyance path 5 is made of, for example, a belt conveyor. The conveyor conveyance path 5 conveys a workpiece W of an individual such as a food or a medicine (which may be a regular or flexible irregular shape) at a predetermined constant conveyance speed corresponding to the product type, and The workpiece W is passed through the detection area 11 during the conveyance.

  The detection means 10 has a detection region 11 formed therein, for example, by a casing (not shown in detail) sandwiching the conveyor conveyance path 5 up and down, and X-rays are emitted to the workpiece W passing through the detection region 11. An X-ray source 12 to be irradiated and an X-ray detector 14 located on the opposite side of the X-ray source 12 with the detection region 11 interposed therebetween are included.

  The X-ray source 12 has an X-ray tube that generates X-rays by colliding a thermoelectron from a cathode filament with an anode target by a high voltage between the cathode and the anode, for example. The X-ray detector 14 is shaped to irradiate a fan-shaped beam extending in the width direction of the conveyor conveyance path 5 (direction perpendicular to the conveyance direction) by a slit (not shown). That is, the X-ray source 12 and the X-ray detector 14 constitute a so-called X-ray fan beam optical system.

  The X-ray detection unit 14 detects X-rays that have passed through the work W for each of a plurality of transmission areas adjacent in the width direction of the conveyor conveyance path 5 in the detection area 11, and accumulates transmission for each predetermined time in each transmission area. A quantity of data is output as a detection signal. Although not shown in detail, the X-ray detection unit 14 is configured by, for example, an X-ray line sensor. This X-ray line sensor is a well-known sensor in which detection elements comprising phosphor scintillators and photodiodes or charge-coupled elements are arranged at a predetermined pitch in an array in the width direction of the conveyor transport path 5. X-ray detection can be performed.

  The conveyor conveyance path 5, the detection means 10, and the sorter 40 are controlled by the inspection / sorting control unit 21 of the control means 20 so as to operate at predetermined timings. The inspection / selection control unit 21 is a data storage unit that temporarily holds a detection signal from the X-ray detection unit 14 in addition to a control function that controls conveyance control by the conveyor conveyance path 5 and operation control of the detection unit 10. It has the function of Further, the inspection / selection control unit 21 includes a determination unit 21a (determination means) for making an inspection result determination using external processing result information, which will be described later, and a selection control for generating a selection control signal corresponding to the result. A control program, a memory, and the like corresponding to the unit 21b (selection control means) are included.

  Specifically, the inspection / selection control unit 21 includes, for example, a microcomputer having a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and an I / O interface, and the X-ray line sensor of the X-ray line sensor according to a predetermined program stored in the ROM. X-ray detection signals from a plurality of detection elements are each A / D converted, and every predetermined unit conveyance time corresponding to the arrangement pitch of the detection elements, all n in the conveyance path width direction (n is a positive integer) For example, for 640) transmission areas, data of accumulated transmission X-ray dose (hereinafter simply referred to as transmission amount) within the unit time is used as a detection signal of a transmission level representing, for example, gradations from 0 to 1023. A writing operation (hereinafter referred to as line scanning) can be executed, and an A / D converter, a memory, and the like (none of which are shown) are provided. To have.

  In addition to the inspection / selection control unit 21, the control unit 20 also includes a first ID generation unit 22, a transmission processing unit 23, a reception processing unit 24, an inspection information storage unit 25, a communication port unit 26, and an error notification unit 27. The control drive unit 20 includes a setting operation unit 31 for performing various setting parameter and product type switching operations, and a work W entering the detection region 11. And a work detection sensor 33 (article detection means) for detecting the above.

  The first ID generation unit 22 detects the workpiece W detected for each workpiece detected by the workpiece detection sensor 33 (one line to be scanned is a minimum unit of the workpiece W here. As the first ID information (first identification information), for example, includes at least time information at the time of detection of the head of the workpiece W (identification corresponding to the number of line scans from the head). Number, identification number of detection means 10 and information such as product type), or identification code information of a plurality of workpieces W input from the outside, and the number of detected workpieces and the number of scans The identification information of the detected workpiece W, etc., which is specified, is generated, and includes a timer, a program, a memory area, etc. for that purpose. The first ID information generated by the first ID generation unit 22 is taken into the determination unit 21 a of the inspection / selection control unit 21.

  The transmission processing unit 23 cooperates with the determination unit 21 a of the inspection / selection control unit 21, and based on the first ID information from the first ID generation unit 22 and the detection signal from the detection unit 10, Individual detection information including W identification information and a detection signal of the workpiece W is generated and output to an external data processing device 50 such as a computer via the communication port unit 26. That is, the determination unit 21a, the first ID generation unit 22, and the transmission processing unit 23 of the inspection / selection control unit 21 constitute an individual detection information output unit. Here, the communication port unit 26 is a communication interface circuit capable of forming a specific node corresponding to an IP address on a predetermined local area network (private communication network; hereinafter referred to as LAN) constituting an IP (Internet Protocol) network. The individual detection information can be transmitted and output from the individual detection information output means to the external data processing apparatus 50 which is another node on the LAN.

  Further, the reception processing unit 24 outputs the processing result of the arithmetic processing executed by the external data processing device 50 for each piece of identification information of the work W corresponding to the individual detection information, the first identification signal and the data processing device. The result of inputting through the communication port unit 26 together with the identification information of the work W of the unit of processing after determining whether or not there is a correspondence with a second identification signal to be described later sent from 50 to the processing result It is an input means. As will be described later, the arithmetic processing referred to here is a higher load than these processing for the first ID information and detection data generation processing and communication processing executed in the article sorting device 1. Such as pass / fail determination processing for each workpiece, image processing, measurement value calculation processing, statistical processing, or the like, or processing that cannot be processed by the CPU in the article sorting apparatus 1.

  In addition, the determination unit 21a of the inspection / selection control unit 21 uses the calculation processing result from the external data processing device 50 based on the processing result of the calculation processing input by the reception processing unit 24 and the identification information of the workpiece W. The corresponding determination result is output to the selection control unit 21b, and the selection control unit 21b receives the determination result and generates a selection control signal that instructs whether or not the workpiece W is selected and discharged to the outside of the conveyor conveyance path 5. .

  Although the external data processing device 50 does not show a specific hardware configuration, the external data processing device 50 has, for example, a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and an I / O interface, and a control program for executing predetermined image processing and determination processing It is configured to include an auxiliary storage device (for example, a processing program for X-ray image generation, volume / mass calculation, display data generation, etc.) that can be read out, a timer circuit, etc., and control stored in a ROM or the like According to the program, the CPU executes predetermined arithmetic processing while exchanging data with the RAM or the like, and executes the control program.

  The data processing device 50 is a data processing that can be connected to the communication port unit 26 of the control means 20 by wired communication (for example, Ethernet (registered trademark) connection or power line carrier communication (PLC)) or wireless communication (for example, wireless LAN). Unit 51 and a second ID generation unit that generates second ID information (second identification information) associated one-to-one based on the first ID information received by data processing unit 51 52. In addition, the data processing device 50 includes a communication interface circuit unit (details not shown) that form a specific node corresponding to a specific IP address on the LAN, for example. That is, the data processing device 50 can be specified by an IP address, and is a device capable of TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) / IP communication, for example. The second ID information generated by the second ID generation unit 52 is a predetermined rule (for example, stored in advance in the second ID generation unit 52 as identification information that can be associated with the first ID information). If the rule is to add 1 to the first ID information to obtain the second ID information, when the last four digits of the first ID information are binary 0001, the last four digits of the second ID information are In addition, a rule for subtracting instead of addition or a rule for manipulating general character strings may be used. Further, the first ID information generated by the second ID generation unit 52 and the second ID information may be the same identification information. The individual detection information may be information obtained by newly adding predetermined first ID information to the detection signal of the detection means 10, or a part of the detection signal may be used as first identification information according to a predetermined rule.

  Further, the data processing unit 51 of the data processing device 50 generates predetermined X-ray image data and determines the presence or absence of foreign matter based on the individual detection information detected by the X-ray detection unit 14 and transmitted from the control unit 20. Each physical quantity calculation process can be executed. Here, the “physical quantity” is a physical quantity related to the size and mass (weight) such as mass, volume, area, thickness, length, width, etc., but the physical quantity calculation processing in this embodiment is an example. It is a calculation process of mass.

  Specifically, the data processing unit 51 of the data processing device 50 first functions as a region extraction processing unit, extracts a part of the detection signal from the X-ray detection unit 14, and at least the X-ray image of the workpiece W. It serves as means for extracting an X-ray image of the measurement area excluding the portion corresponding to the background, and has a program and a working memory (not shown) for that purpose. In addition, the data processing unit 51 extracts only a part of the density data that falls within the predetermined density level range from the density data from the article sorting apparatus 1 and the density of the measurement region excluding the part corresponding to the background of the X-ray image. Data is extracted, and at least density data of the X-ray image is subjected to noise cut processing with a predetermined threshold, and the background when the workpiece W is irradiated with X-rays, in this embodiment, the workpiece W is placed. A program and a working memory area are provided so that the measured value of the mass of the conveyed belt becomes zero. Further, the data processing unit 51 captures the region-extracted density data every predetermined time, and is an X-ray image corresponding to the transmission amount data for the entire area of each work W, and there is no work W and the X-ray transmission amount. Is the minimum density value at the site where the X-ray absorption amount by the workpiece W is zero and the X-ray absorption amount by the workpiece W is the minimum and the maximum density is at the site where the X-ray absorption amount by the workpiece W is maximum. Image generating means for generating a digital X-ray image for each workpiece W is provided. The determination of the presence or absence of mixed foreign matter with respect to the workpiece W can be executed, for example, by comparing the peak density value for each line scan of the X-ray image with the density level of a predetermined determination threshold value.

In addition, the data processing unit 51 has processing functions for density data conversion, volume measurement, and mass conversion. By the density data conversion function, the background density value in the X-ray image and the foreground ( The representative density of the image corresponding to the mass measurement area) and the maximum density of the equivalent thickness image are respectively stored in an internal set value memory (not shown), and in each transmission area of the workpiece W based on the set value. A conversion process from the density data P of the X-ray image to the density data Q (P) of the equivalent thickness image is executed. The equivalent thickness image is an image in which the thickness of the workpiece W is equivalently shown by density data generated from the X-ray transmission amount data. Assuming that the amount of received light I of the X-ray detection unit 14 is I = I ₀ exp (−α · t), α · t is transmitted until the X-rays are detected from the source and detected by the X-ray measurement unit. It is an equivalent thickness value that directly indicates the amount of X-ray absorption by a substance. For example, by associating this with the density value of an image, the density of a substance having a higher X-ray absorption rate or a thicker part in the X-ray transmission direction An equivalent thickness image having a large value can be created. The data processing unit 51 has a volume measurement processing program, and executes the volume calculation only for the mass measurement target region by taking in the density data of the X-ray image of the mass measurement region from the region extraction processing unit. The effective data of the equivalent thickness images Q (P) (slice data) obtained by each line scan from the leading edge to the trailing edge in the conveyance direction of the workpiece W are summed to add the effective data of each workpiece W. The volume V is calculated.

  The data processing unit 51 further stores a coefficient holding memory area that stores a mass conversion coefficient of the workpiece W read from a product parameter file (not shown), and a predetermined volume measurement value for each transmission area that is volume-measured. The conversion processing program which converts into the conversion value of a mass unit by the conversion ratio is included, and the volume measurement value V of each workpiece | work W volume-measured as mentioned above can be converted into a mass value.

  On the other hand, the inspection / sorting control unit 21 of the article sorting apparatus 1 is the case where the individual detection information is output from the transmission processing unit 23, and the processing of the arithmetic processing is performed within a predetermined sorting delay time Td from the output time point. When the result is not input to the reception processing unit 24, notification information of a processing result reception error indicating that the reception input of the processing result has failed is generated. Based on this notification information, the error notification unit 27 The state of the reception error is notified at least by a lamp display or a warning sound. That is, the inspection / selection control unit 21 and the error notification unit 27 constitute reception error notification means.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when the error notification unit 27 notifies the processing result reception error, the inspection / selection control unit 21 selects based on the processing result reception error notification information generated for error notification. The control unit 21b generates a sorting control signal for sorting and discharging the workpiece W to the outside of the conveyor conveyance path 5.

  More specifically, in the present embodiment, a workpiece detection sensor 33 is provided that detects that the workpiece W has reached a predetermined position upstream of the detection region 11 of the detection means 10 on the conveyor conveyance path 5. Therefore, after the workpiece W is detected by the workpiece detection sensor 33, the calculation processing is performed after the workpiece W reaches a predetermined sorting position on the conveyor conveyance path 5, which is a predetermined position near the sorter 40. When the result is not input to the reception processing unit 24, notification information for informing a processing result reception error indicating that the reception input of the processing result has failed is generated.

  However, the inspection / sorting control unit 21 is a case where the individual detection information is output from the transmission processing unit 23. For example, the work W related to the output from the output time point is a predetermined position near the sorter 40. When the processing result of the arithmetic processing is not input to the reception processing unit 24 until the predetermined sorting position on the transport path 5 is reached, notification information for informing the processing result reception error is generated. Also good.

  The transmission processing unit 23 of the article sorting device 1 also communicates with the external data processing device 50 when it is necessary to transmit and output the individual detection information to the external data processing device 50. Execute the negotiation for connection start through the network and understand the current status of each other, then determine the packet size (maximum segment size), etc. and determine the connection (virtual communication path connecting each other's applications) It is established and the flow is controlled, and this is achieved by, for example, a TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) communication program. Accordingly, the transmission processing unit 23 sends a confirmation response request signal (for example, a sequence number) to the external data processing device 50, and transmits a confirmation response signal (for example, a transmission destination to a transmission source corresponding to the response request signal). The individual detection information is transmitted to the external data processor 50 only when an ACK (Acknowledgement) number) is received.

  Further, the external data processing device 50 selects the result data of the arithmetic processing such as the above-described X-ray image for each workpiece W, the determination result of the presence or absence of foreign matter, the pass / fail of the mass measurement result (whether it is within the allowable mass range), etc. When transmitting to the device 1, a negotiation for starting connection is performed with the reception processing unit 24 through the communication port unit 26 of the article sorting device 1, and the current status of each other is grasped, and then the packet size ( The maximum segment size) is determined and a connection is established. This is achieved by, for example, a TCP communication program. Accordingly, the external data processing device 50 sends a confirmation response request signal (for example, a sequence number) to the article sorting device 1, and a confirmation response signal corresponding to the response request signal (for example, the external data from the article sorting device 1). Only when the ACK number sent to the processing device 50 is received, the result data of the arithmetic processing is transmitted and output to the article sorting device 1.

  When the reception processing unit 24 receives the calculation result data from the external data processing device 50, the inspection / selection control unit 21 stores the calculation processing result data in the inspection information storage unit 25 such as a hard disk. Can do. The result data of the arithmetic processing is accumulated so as to be centrally managed for the plurality of article sorting apparatuses 1 on the data processing apparatus 50 side, and is capable of sufficiently satisfying recent traceability requirements. You may make it send only the pass / fail judgment result for every workpiece | work W required to determine the necessity of selection discharge | emission from the apparatus 50 side to the goods selection apparatus 1 side.

  Next, the operation will be described.

  First, after the tube voltage and tube current for specifying the irradiation intensity of the X-ray source 12 are set to appropriate levels in accordance with the type of workpiece W, the belt surface over the entire width direction on the non-conveyor conveyor path 5 The detection sensitivity of the X-ray detection unit 14 is adjusted so that the transmission amount of X-rays in each transmission region is equal, and then the zero point of volume measurement is set on the belt surface of the conveyor conveyance path 5 when no conveyance is performed. The reference plane is set.

  Next, a noise cut threshold value or the like is set as necessary. For example, a mass conversion coefficient is calculated and set by measuring the volume of a master work whose mass is known. These initial setting data are written in the memory of the inspection / selection control unit 21 as, for example, a part of a product type parameter file, and are read when an input for specifying the product type is made.

  A series of inspection control programs, which will be described later, are executed for the types for which such setting has been completed, and when an input for specifying the type of the workpiece W to be inspected is made, an X-ray inspection is performed after a necessary selection operation input. Done. In this X-ray inspection, first, each set parameter that has been set first is read from the product type parameter file. Next, when there is an operation input such as a start button for instructing the start of measurement, the workpiece W on the conveyor transport path 5 is read. Is started.

  Next, when the workpiece W is detected by the workpiece detection sensor 33, the inspection / sorting control unit 21 is adjacent to the conveyance section corresponding to the length of the workpiece W from the change in the detection state of the workpiece detection sensor 33 and before and after the conveyance direction. A non-conveyance section corresponding to the interval between the matching workpieces W is specified, and a sampling period for performing repeated scanning of the X-ray detection unit 14 is determined.

  Next, the detection signal from the X-ray detection unit 14 is started to be taken into the image input unit at a predetermined timing after the workpiece is detected, and the line scanning for each unit conveyance time is repeated by the length of the workpiece W. The transmission amount data corresponding to n detection elements of the X-ray line sensor are sequentially stored in the memory area of the inspection / selection control unit 21 that functions as the data storage unit of the X-ray detection unit 14.

  At this time, the maximum density data (indicated by A / D in the figure) in each slice data is compared with a predetermined threshold value to determine the presence or absence of metal foreign matter having a particularly high X-ray absorption rate. However, in the present embodiment, the external data processing device 50 is caused to execute most of the processing required for sorting the articles.

  On the other hand, the inspection / selection control unit 21 generates density data P of an X-ray image as slice data obtained in each scan, and individually with the first ID information generated by the first ID generation unit 22. The detected information is processed into a data segment for TCP / IP transmission by the transmission processing unit 23 and transmitted from the transmission processing unit 23 to the external data processing device 50.

  At this time, the transmitted data is output from the X-ray detection unit 14 within a certain inspection period from the rise of the detection signal of the workpiece detection sensor 33, for example, as shown in FIG.

  In the figure, the work W is box-shaped, and immediately after the detection signal of the work detection sensor 33 rises, first ID information including at least date and time as identification information (12- in the figure). 22 11: 06: 23.156) is generated, and together with this, the individual detection information composed of the ID information and the detection data of the work W is decomposed into a transmission frame which is, for example, an Ethernet packet. Further, a data start flag (START in the figure) is set prior to the first data transmission frame. For example, the number n of detection elements of the X-ray line sensor for each slice with a transmission size of 1 frame = 1500 octets (bytes). Permeation amount data (“100, 110, 90, 80, 60,...”, “150, 160, 170, 180,...”, “200, 210 partially shown in FIG. ,...) Are sequentially converted into transmission frames, and after the last slice data corresponding to the rear end of the work W, a data end flag (END in the figure) of the work W is set. Then, an IP header or the like is added to the transmission frame, and the transmission frame is transmitted to the external data processing device 50 designated by the destination IP address described therein. Although not shown, the data transmission frame from START to END for each one work W here is attached with identification information of the work W and a series of sequence numbers. It can be distinguished from the data transmission frame.

  At this time, the data processing unit 51 of the external data processing device 50 reconstructs the individual detection information for each work W from the received packet according to the TCP / IP communication processing procedure, and then measures the mass of the background conveyor belt surface. A digital X-ray image of each work W is generated while extracting density data in a predetermined density level range from the density data from the article sorting device 1 so that the value becomes zero, and further, density data conversion, foreign object presence determination, Each process of volume measurement and mass conversion is executed. That is, the presence / absence of a foreign substance in each work W is determined based on data obtained by scanning a plurality of times from the front end to the rear end in the conveyance direction of the work W, while the density data of the equivalent thickness image is converted. The volume V of each workpiece W is calculated by adding the valid data, and the volume measurement value V is converted into a mass value, and the results of those processes are transmitted to the article sorting apparatus 1 side.

  When this result is transmitted, the first ID information is based on the first ID information of the individual detection information that is the target of the current arithmetic processing during the arithmetic processing in the data processing unit 51 or immediately after the completion of the processing. Second ID information corresponding to is generated by the second ID generation unit 52. That is, according to a predetermined rule stored and held in advance in the second ID generation unit 52, the second ID information that is the same as the first ID information or a specific work W indicated by the first ID information Second ID information that uniquely represents the processing result of the detection signal corresponding to this detection signal (slice data) is generated. For example, the second ID information is generated so as to include the date and time of the slice data of the detection signal included in the first ID information, and this is combined with the ID information and processing result data of the work W Result information is generated, and this processing result information is broken down into transmission frames, for example, Ethernet packets. Further, a data start flag (for example, START) is set prior to the first data transmission frame, and for example, the number of detection elements of the X-ray line sensor for each slice is n with a transmission size of 1 frame = 1500 octets (bytes). When the transmission amount data is used as the detection signal, the data of the result of the predetermined arithmetic processing for the selection control based on the detection signal is sequentially converted into a transmission frame, and the final slice data corresponding to the rear end of the work W After this, an end flag (for example, END) of the calculation processing of the detection signal data of the workpiece W is set. Then, an IP header or the like is added to the transmission frame, and the transmission frame is transmitted to the article sorting device 1 designated by the destination IP address described therein.

  In the case of mutual data communication as described above, the transmission processing unit 23 on the article sorting device 1 side first performs negotiation with the external data processing device 50 when transmission output is required, and external data processing is performed. Only when the confirmation response request signal is transmitted to the device 50 and the confirmation response signal corresponding to the response request signal is received, the individual detection information is transmitted and output to the external data processing device 50.

  On the other hand, when the result data of the arithmetic processing is transmitted to the article sorting apparatus 1 also on the external data processing apparatus 50 side, a confirmation response request signal is sent to the article sorting apparatus 1 and a corresponding confirmation response signal is received. Only when the result data of the calculation process is transmitted to the article sorting apparatus 1. Therefore, a reliable data communication path is ensured between the article sorting apparatus 1 and the external data processing apparatus 50, and the article sorting apparatus 1 itself is simple and low cost without being equipped with a high processing capacity CPU. Based on the results of arithmetic processing that is always processed by the data processing device 50 using the latest processing program and hardware resources, results of advanced inspection / determination based on X-ray images, results of volume / mass calculation, etc. Obtainable.

  Further, in the data communication between the article sorting device 1 and the external data processing device 50, the inspection / sorting control unit 21 of the article sorting device 1 is the case where the individual detection information is output from the transmission processing unit 23. The processing result of the arithmetic processing within a predetermined sorting delay time from the time of the output, that is, within the transport distance from the position where the tip of the workpiece is detected by the workpiece detection sensor 33 until the tip of the workpiece reaches the sorting position / work conveyance speed therebetween) Is not input to the reception processing unit 24, processing result reception error notification information indicating that the processing result reception input has failed is generated, and the inspection / selection control unit 21 as the selection control means is based on the notification information. A sorting control signal for sorting and discharging the workpiece W to the outside of the conveyor conveyance path 5 is generated.

  Therefore, even if the computation processing on the external data processing device 50 side cannot be performed for some reason or communication is impossible, the article sorting device 1 grasps the processing result reception error and performs sorting control. It can be reflected immediately, and there is no possibility that the work W which may be defective is mixed into the transfer area of the accepted product. Further, the inspection / sorting control unit 21 can accumulate necessary management data for each inspection line in the inspection information storage unit 25, and further provide statistical data over a long period of time, related production location information, Various inspection data and the like for each work W can be accumulated on the external data processing device 50 side, and can be centrally managed and centrally managed, and can sufficiently meet recent traceability requirements.

  As described above, in the article sorting apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, the individual detection information including the detection signal and identification information of the workpiece W is generated and output to the outside, while the identification of the workpiece W is performed in accordance with the individual detection information. The processing result of the arithmetic processing executed for each information is input together with the identification information, and based on the processing result and the identification information, a selection command as to whether or not the workpiece W is selected and discharged to the outside of the conveyor conveyance path 5 is issued. Since it is executed, it becomes a small, long-life, low-cost article sorting device that does not require a high-performance CPU. In addition, when the processing result is received, the determination unit 21a determines whether the first ID information and the second ID information are associated with each other, thereby associating the detection signal of the detection unit 10 with the calculation processing result. Because even if the data transfer is slightly changed or the order of arrival is disturbed, the processing result data can be reliably reconstructed based on both identification information, and reliable data communication is possible. It becomes an article sorting apparatus with excellent reliability.

  Further, the article selection device 1 has a communication port unit 26 that can form a node on a predetermined local area network, and an external data processing device 50 that is another node on the local area network from the transmission processing unit 23. The individual detection information is transmitted and output, and the processing result of the arithmetic processing is input from the external data processing device 50 to the reception processing unit 24 together with the second ID information enabling identification thereof. The calculation processing of the detection signal for each work W can be reliably executed by the external data processing device 50, and the detection data for the plurality of article sorting devices 1 is calculated in parallel, and the results are centrally managed and integrated. Can be managed.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when the individual detection information is output from the transmission processing unit 23 and the processing result of the arithmetic processing is not input to the reception processing unit 24 within a predetermined time from the output time point, -Since the sorting control unit 21 notifies the error notification unit 27 that the processing result reception input has failed, it is possible to notify the user of a reception error, and based on this, the conveyance is stopped, or the sorting control is performed on the discharge side. It can also be set.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, when a reception error is notified, a sorting control signal for sorting and discharging the workpiece W to the outside of the conveyor conveyance path 5 is generated, so that the workpiece W that may be a defective product remains on the conveyor conveyance path 5. Such a situation can be surely prevented, and the reliability of the sorting work can be reliably ensured. In other words, when information such as a determination result is input outside a predetermined delay time required for workpiece transfer, an order different from the order in which the detection data of the workpiece W is output on the article sorting device 1 side. However, since the determination processing result includes identification information for each workpiece W, the article sorting apparatus 1 side has a relatively long predetermined delay time corresponding to the transport time to the sorting position ( Even if a situation such as a delay of the determination processing result exceeding a period (which is sufficiently longer than the normal data retransmission execution period) or a reverse of the determination result reception completion time for the preceding and succeeding workpieces W occurs, the identification information of each workpiece W The determination result for each workpiece W can be surely grasped based on the above, and the selection control is determined by dividing a predetermined delay time, so that the accurate selection control is surely executed. So that it is possible.

  In the present embodiment, the output from the time when the workpiece W is detected by the workpiece detection sensor 33 until the workpiece W reaches the predetermined sorting position on the conveyor transport path 5 or from the time when the individual detection information is output. When the processing result of the arithmetic processing is not input to the reception processing unit 24 until the work W related to the time reaches the predetermined sorting position on the conveyor conveyance path 5, the reception input of the processing result has failed. Therefore, when the processing result of the arithmetic processing is not input within the selection delay time, it becomes possible to confirm the selection control by the processing result reception error.

  Further, when it is necessary for the transmission processing unit 23 to transmit and output the individual detection information to the external data processing device 50, the transmission processing unit 23 sends a response request signal to the external data processing device 50, and the response request signal Since the individual detection information is transmitted and output to the external data processing device 50 only when a response signal corresponding to is received, data communication is started after confirming that a communication path (connection) has been established. And the reliability of data communication can be ensured.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to simplify the apparatus configuration by eliminating the need for a high-processing-performance arithmetic CPU, and to reduce the cost, size, and life of the article sorting apparatus 1. With the communication and data identification function that can effectively utilize the hardware resources of the system, the reliability of the processing result data can be reliably reconstructed even if the data transfer is slightly changed or the order of arrival is disturbed. An excellent article sorting apparatus can be provided. As a result, it is possible to provide an article sorting apparatus that is excellent in reliability and can construct an inspection system that can flexibly respond to a management request for traceability information.

  In the above-described embodiment, X-ray foreign matter detection is performed. However, the present invention is not limited to an article sorting apparatus that performs X-ray inspection. In the above-described embodiment, the workpiece W is a box-shaped individual. However, the present invention can be applied even if the workpiece W is a so-called rose or kneaded material.

[Second Embodiment]
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a second embodiment of the article sorting apparatus according to the present invention, and shows an example in which the present invention is applied to an apparatus for inspecting so-called loose workpieces.

  In the present embodiment, the apparatus configuration itself of the article sorting apparatus 1 is substantially the same as that of the above-described embodiment, and only a part of the configuration of the control unit 20 is different from the above-described configuration. Differences from the above will be mainly described using the same reference numerals as those in the above embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the data transmitted from the transmission processing unit 23 of the article sorting device 1 to the external data processing device 50 is within a certain inspection period from the rise of the detection signal of the workpiece detection sensor 33 at the start of conveyance, as shown in FIG. Output from the X-ray detector 14. In the figure, the workpiece W is a so-called rose shape, that is, a set of small solid bodies such as a granular material or a piece-like material, and is transported by being placed in a continuous band shape or an intermittent lump shape on the conveyor transport path 5. The workpiece W is identified as a workpiece W in units of a predetermined conveyance time that passes through the workpiece detection sensor 33 every predetermined time, for example, every 500 ms (milliseconds) while the detection signal of the workpiece detection sensor 33 rises. . Then, as identification information of the workpiece W in the predetermined transport time unit, first ID information (first identification information; 12-22 11:06 in the figure) including at least the ID code, date, time, etc. of the inspection line. : 23.156), the data start flag (START in the figure) is set, for example, the transmission size of 1 frame = 1500 octets (bytes), and the number of detection elements of the X-ray line sensor for each slice n transmission amount data (“100, 110, 90, 80, 60,...”, “150, 160, 170, 180,...”, “200, 210,... ”) Are sequentially converted into transmission frames, and the data end flag (END in the figure) of this work W is set after the final slice data after about 500 ms corresponding to the rear end of the work W. It is. Then, an IP header or the like is added to each group of transmission frames (for example, 1500 octet ether packets) of the individual detection information composed of the first ID information and detection data of the work W, and the destination IP address described therein is used. The data is transmitted to the designated external data processing device 50. Again, although not shown in detail, the data transmission frame from START to END for each piece of workpiece W (predetermined transport time unit of the loose workpiece regarded as) includes the first identification information of workpiece W. A series of sequence numbers is included, so that it can be identified from any of the data transmission frames of the other works W preceding and following.

  Also in the present embodiment, for example, data communication by TCP / IP communication or the like is executed between the article sorting device 1 and the external data processing device 50 within a delay time until transfer to the sorting position based on the identification information of the workpiece W. In addition, the article sorting device 1 itself is simple and low-cost without having a high-performance CPU, but is always processed by the external data processing device 50 using the latest processing program and hardware resources. Based on the result, it is possible to obtain a result of advanced determination processing based on the X-ray image, a physical quantity calculation result such as volume / mass, and the like, and the same effects as those of the above-described embodiment can be obtained.

[Third embodiment]
4 and 5 are views showing a third embodiment of the article sorting apparatus according to the present invention, and show an example in which the present invention is applied to a metal detector.

  In the metal detector 61 (article sorting device) of the present embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the workpiece W is conveyed in a predetermined direction by the conveyor conveyance path 65, and the conveyance speed is set according to the conveyance speed of the production line of the workpiece W. Has been. The predetermined section in the conveyance direction of the workpiece W is a detection area for detecting a metallic foreign object (a foreign object made of metal or a foreign substance containing a metal component, or a component instead of a foreign object in the case of missing parts detection). For example, an optical work detection sensor 73 (article detection means) for detecting the entry of the work W into the detection area 71 is installed near the entrance of the detection area.

  In the vicinity of the detection area 71, a detection unit 70 that detects a metal foreign object in the workpiece W is provided. The detection unit 70 includes a signal generation unit 81 that generates a transmission signal having a preset amplitude and frequency, a magnetic field generation unit 82 that current-drives the transmission coil using a signal from the signal generation unit 81, a differential detector, and the like. And a magnetic field detector 83 configured by

  Although not shown in detail, the signal generator 81 includes a reference signal generator that responds to the workpiece detection sensor 73, a timer for specifying a measurement period, a power amplifier, a tuning circuit, and the like. When passing through 71, a transmission signal of a set frequency is generated and the transmission coil of the magnetic field generation unit 82 is current-driven. The transmission coil of the magnetic field generation unit 82 is disposed in the vicinity of the conveyor conveyance path 65, and when excited by current drive from the signal generation unit 81, an alternating magnetic field corresponding to the set frequency of the transmission signal is detected in the detection region 71. Can be generated inside.

  The magnetic field detection unit 83 is configured to detect a metal foreign object in a plurality of workpieces W in cooperation with the signal generation unit 81 and the magnetic field generation unit 82, and a pair of receptions differentially connected. It is a well-known one comprising a coil, a tuning circuit, an amplifier and the like. This magnetic field detector 83 is adjusted so that the induced voltages of the pair of receiving coils are equally balanced only with the alternating magnetic field from the magnetic field generator 82, and the differential output between them is zero.

  The magnetic metal that passes through the magnetic field attracts more magnetic flux in proportion to the magnitude of the magnetic flux density, and the nonmagnetic metal that passes through the magnetic field swirls in such a direction as to cancel the change in the magnetic flux density due to the movement. An electric current is generated and Joule heat is consumed. Therefore, when the workpiece W on the conveyor conveyance path 65 passes through the detection region 71, the balanced state of the output between the reception coils of the magnetic field detection unit 83 is lost.

  The magnetic field detector 83 is a known device that outputs a detection signal corresponding to a change in the magnetic field when the output equilibrium state between the two receiving coils is lost due to the movement of the workpiece W on the conveyor conveyance path 65 as described above. The detection signal has a signal form in which a low-frequency signal component that changes due to the magnetic field passing through the workpiece W is superimposed on an AC signal component having a set frequency of the transmission signal corresponding to an alternating magnetic field from the magnetic field generation unit 82 side. It becomes.

  The detection signal of the magnetic field detection unit 83 is taken into a detection control unit 84 (individual detection information output means, result input means). Although not shown in detail, this detection control unit 84 performs a pair of orthogonal detections. The signal measuring unit 84a includes a synchronous detector, a phase shifter, a band pass filter, an amplifier, an A / D converter, and the like.

  The pair of synchronous detectors of the signal measuring unit 84a takes in a signal obtained by adjusting the phase of the reference signal for quadrature detection, and generates a detection output by removing a high-frequency component corresponding to a transmission signal from the detection signal. The output of the quadrature detection is, for example, a detection signal in which the influence of a non-magnetic metal causing an external magnetic field change is larger as the magnetic flux density change is larger, and a detection in which the influence of a magnetic metal causing an external magnetic field change is larger as the magnetic flux density is larger Signal.

  The detection control unit 84 also includes a first ID generation unit 84b, a communication processing unit 84c, a storage unit 84d, a determination unit 84e, and a communication port unit 84f. The signal measurement unit 84a further adds the detection output to the detection output. The communication processing unit converts the individual detection information obtained by converting the detection data subjected to noise removal by the filter and A / D conversion into a transmission frame together with the first ID information (first identification information) generated by the first ID generation unit 84b. 84c. Then, external data processing that forms a node in the same LAN as the communication port unit 84f is transmitted to the transmission frame via a communication port unit 84f (communication interface circuit unit) that constitutes a communication processing unit together with the communication processing unit 84c. To device 90. The determination unit 84e, the first ID generation unit 84b, and the communication processing unit 84c of the detection control unit 84 constitute an individual detection information output unit, and the communication processing unit 84c inputs a processing result from the data processing device 90. As a result input means. The storage unit 84d functions as a communication buffer and a detection data storage memory, and further functions as a storage unit for necessary setting value information and the like.

  The external data processing device 90 executes arithmetic processing according to a predetermined control program based on a detection signal of the detection unit 70 and a user operation input from an operating device (not shown), and the detection control unit 84 receives the determination result and A metal processing unit 91 configured to transmit and output predetermined condition parameters (for example, detection phase, detection frequency, filter constant, determination threshold value) and the like, and a memory preliminarily storing a processing program of a predetermined rule, the metal detector 61 side A second ID generation unit 92 that generates second ID information that can be associated with the first ID information generated in accordance with the predetermined rule, a processing result in the data processing unit 91, and an operation (not shown) And an accumulation unit 93 that accumulates information about the workpiece W input from the input unit or input from the outside. The data processing unit 91 is composed of, for example, a microcomputer including a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and an I / O interface, and includes a determination control program, a phase control program, a frequency selection program that suppresses the influence of the work stored in the ROM, A threshold calculation program or the like is executed by the CPU while exchanging data with the RAM, and the presence / absence of foreign matter is determined based on the detection data from the detection control unit 84, or the set type of the workpiece W In accordance with the above, calculation processing such as calculation of a set phase between the magnetic field generation unit 82 and the magnetic field detection unit 83, a phase shift amount for quadrature detection, a detection frequency, a determination threshold value, statistical calculation, and the like is executed. The detection signal level of each workpiece W conveyed to at least the detection area 71 is compared with a predetermined threshold level, and the workpiece W On whether or not contain foreign metal substance, that is, to determine the acceptability of the product by a known determination method.

  On the other hand, the determination unit 84e of the detection control unit 84 determines whether or not it is a defective product based on the determination processing result from the external data processing device 90, that is, whether or not it is necessary to selectively discharge out of the conveyance path 5. Based on the determination result, a sorting control signal for non-ejecting if it is a non-defective product, and a sorting control signal for making it selected and ejected outside the conveyor transport path 5 if it is a defective product. The defective product is separated from the non-defective product by the sorting device 88 provided on the downstream side of the detection region 71 and discharged out of the conveyance path.

  Here, communication processing between the detection control unit 84 of the metal detector 61 and the external data processing device 90 is performed according to a predetermined communication protocol in the LAN such as TCP / IP communication. A program for remotely setting the detection parameters of the metal detector 61 from the external data processing device 90 side may be installed in the detection control unit 84 of the metal detector 61 and the external data processing device 90.

  Next, the operation will be described.

  When the user presses an operation key (not shown), the operation of the metal detector 61 is started, and inspection on a production line of a number of workpieces W as products is executed. When foreign matter is detected, the sorter 88 is controlled to perform a sorting and discharging operation, and defective products are discharged out of the conveyance path.

  In this state, detection data is transmitted from the detection control unit 84 of the metal detector 61 to the external data processing device 90.

  Specifically, as schematically shown in FIG. 5, measurement data is generated in the detection control unit 84 within a certain period Td from the rise of the detection signal of the workpiece detection sensor 33, while the workpiece and the measurement data are Individual detection information including W identification information generated as first ID information including at least the identification symbol, date, time, etc. of the metal detector 61, and including the first ID information and detection data of the workpiece W corresponding thereto. Are sequentially converted into transmission frames with a transmission size of, for example, 1 frame = 1500 octets (bytes), attached with an IP header or the like, and transmitted from the communication port unit 84f into the LAN.

  Therefore, a transmission frame including the identification information of the work W is sent to the external data processing device 90 designated by the destination IP address, and the calculation processing is executed in the external data processing device 90 to determine each work W. Such processing result information is generated, and the processing result is transmitted to the detection control unit 84 of the metal detector 61.

  At this time, for example, as shown in FIG. 5A, the external time is detected within a predetermined delay time Td from the rising point of the workpiece detection signal P1 for the specific workpiece W (it may be the output point of the detection signal dw1 of the detection unit 70). If the information on the non-defective product determination result (OK in the figure) is input from the data processor 90, the sorter 88 is set to the non-discharge operation position that allows the non-defective workpiece W to pass through the sorting position. . Therefore, when the communication packet of the non-defective product determination result is sent from the standard reception timing but arrives within the predetermined delay time Td, the sorter 88 passes the non-defective product as it is downstream.

  Also, within a predetermined delay time Td from the rising point of the workpiece detection signal P for a specific workpiece W, for example, the workpiece detection signal P2 of the next workpiece W shown in FIG. If the information of the defective product determination result (NG in the figure) is input to the external data processing device 90, the sorter 88 performs the sorting and discharging operation for preventing the defective workpiece W from passing through the sorting position. It is assumed to be a position. Therefore, when the communication packet of the defective product determination result arrives within the predetermined delay time Td before and after the standard reception time, the sorter 88 discharges the defective product at the sorting position.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 6C, for a next workpiece W, for example, a predetermined delay time Td is deviated (exceeded) from the rising point of the workpiece detection signal P3 (or the output point of the detection signal dw3). The sorter 88 is controlled to the sorting / discharging operation position that prevents the workpiece W from passing through the sorting position even when the non-defective product determination result (OK) information is input from the external data processing device 90. . In other words, when the determination result of the non-defective product cannot be received within the predetermined delay time Td, the detection control unit 84 of the metal detector 61 selects the selection control signal for selecting and discharging the workpiece W that is unknown whether the product is non-defective or defective. The control unit 87 outputs the workpiece W and the sorting machine 88 discharges the workpiece W out of the conveyance path. Therefore, even when information on a defective product determination result (NG) is input from an external data processing device 90 that deviates (becomes) the predetermined delay time Td from the rising point of the workpiece detection signal P2, the detection is similarly performed. The control unit 84 causes the sorting control unit 87 to output a sorting control signal for sorting and discharging the workpiece W that is unknown whether it is a non-defective product or a defective product, and the sorting machine 88 discharges the workpiece W out of the conveyance path.

  By the way, as described above, when the information on the non-defective product determination result (OK) and the defective product determination result (NG) is input outside the predetermined delay time Td from the rising point of the work detection signal P, for example, external data In the case where a part of the transmission path of the transmission frame from the processing device 90 to the metal detector 61 greatly reduces the traffic volume or repeats a part of the transmission frame due to frequent occurrence of data collisions, Alternatively, when some abnormality occurs on the external data processing apparatus 90 side, the metal detector 61 side may receive the determination processing results in an order different from the order in which the detection data of the workpiece W is output. However, since the determination processing result includes identification information for each workpiece W, determination processing that exceeds a relatively long period of a predetermined delay time Td corresponding to the transport time to the selection position on the metal detector 61 side. Even if a situation such as a delay of the result or a reverse of the reception completion time of the determination result for the preceding and succeeding workpieces W occurs, the determination result for each workpiece W can be surely grasped based on the identification information of each workpiece W, and predetermined Since the selection control is determined by dividing the delay time Td, accurate selection control can be executed reliably.

  On the other hand, when a new product type is designated, for example, based on the inspection output data obtained when the inspection output data obtained when the work W is inspected through the detection area 71 is collected, the threshold value for determination and others The parameter setting values are calculated and transmitted from the external data processing device 90 to the detection control unit 84 of the metal detector 61, and automatic setting processing for a new product type becomes possible.

  As described above, also in this embodiment, the detection data of the metal detector 61 together with the identification information of the workpiece W is transmitted to the external data processing device 90 in the same LAN as the TCP / IP network. A metal detector based on the results of arithmetic processing that is always performed by the external data processing device 90 using the latest processing program and hardware resources while being simple and low-cost without having a CPU with processing capability. The result of the advanced inspection / determination based on the 61 detection data can be obtained, and the same effect as the above-described embodiment can be obtained. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the setting parameter related to the detection condition can be changed using the calculated data on the external data processing device 90 side.

[Fourth embodiment]
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a fourth embodiment of the article sorting apparatus according to the present invention, and shows an example in which the present invention is applied to a weight sorter. In this embodiment, since the quality state of the workpiece is used as a weight, the detection means is greatly different. However, since other configurations are the same as or similar to those in the first embodiment, such components are not described. Differences will be mainly described using the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment.

  The weight sorter 100 (article sorter) of this embodiment shown in FIG. 6 detects the weight as the quality state of the workpiece W passing through the detection region 11 on the conveyor conveyance path 5, and generates a detection signal representing the weight value. A weight detection type detection means 110 for outputting, a control means 120 for controlling the detection operation of the detection means 110, and the above-described sorter 40 are provided. And the conveyor conveyance path 5, the detection means 110, and the sorter 40 are controlled by the test | inspection / sorting control part 121 of the control means 120 so that it may each operate | move at a predetermined timing.

  The detection unit 110 includes a weight detection unit 114 including at least one weight sensor located below the detection region 11, and the weight detection unit 114 is transported into the detection region 11 by the conveyor transport path 5. When a load is received from the workpiece W, a detection signal of a weight (quality state) corresponding to the load is output to the control device 120. When the weight detection unit 114 includes a plurality of weight sensors, each sensor generates a detection signal indicating a partial weight of the workpiece W that passes through the detection region 11 in the transport direction, and the entire workpiece W is detected by all the sensors. A detection signal capable of calculating the weight is output.

  The inspection / selection control unit 121 performs A / D conversion on the weight detection signal from the weight detection unit 114 and temporarily stores the data in addition to the control function that controls the conveyance control by the conveyor conveyance path 5 and the operation control of the detection unit 110. It has a function as a data storage unit that holds it, and includes a microcomputer as in the first embodiment. When the weight detection unit 114 includes a plurality of weight sensors, a multiplexer and an A / D converter that can input detection signals from the weight sensors, and the input detection signals as sensor positions (coordinates). And a memory for storing the data in association with each other.

  The inspection / selection control unit 121 further generates a determination unit 121a (determination means) for making an inspection result determination using the processing result information from the external data processing device 50, and a selection control signal corresponding to the result. It includes a control program, a memory and the like corresponding to the sorting control unit 121b (sorting control means).

  On the other hand, in the data processing unit 51 of the data processing device 50 in the present embodiment, a process for determining whether or not at least the weight of the workpiece W is not less than a preset lower limit weight and not more than an upper limit weight (from a plurality of weight sensors). (It may be an arithmetic process for detecting the load region based on the detection information and summing the partial loads from the weight sensor group carrying the effective load, etc.). Of course, the calculation process here is a calculation process that has a higher load than the generation process and communication process of the first ID information and detection data executed in the weight sorter 100. Or a process that cannot be processed by the CPU in the weight sorter 100.

  In addition to the inspection / selection control unit 121, the control unit 120 includes a first ID generation unit 22, a transmission processing unit 23, a reception processing unit 24, inspection information, as in the first embodiment described above. The storage unit 25, the communication port unit 26, the error notification unit 27, the detection drive unit 28, and the selection drive unit 29 are provided, and a setting operation unit 31 and a work detection sensor 33 are provided respectively.

  The transmission processing unit 23 cooperates with the determination unit 121a of the inspection / selection control unit 121 and based on the first ID information from the first ID generation unit 22 and the detection signal from the detection unit 10, Individual detection information including the identification information of W and the detection signal of the workpiece W is generated and output to an external data processing device 50 such as a computer via the communication port unit 26. That is, the determination unit 121a, the first ID generation unit 22, and the transmission processing unit 23 of the inspection / selection control unit 121 constitute an individual detection information output unit.

  In addition, the processing result of the arithmetic processing executed by the external data processing device 50 for each piece of identification information of the work W corresponding to the individual detection information is received by the reception processing unit 24 with the first identification signal and the second identification signal. After determining the presence or absence of correspondence with the identification signal, it is input via the communication port unit 26 together with the identification information of the work W in the unit of the processing.

  Then, based on the processing result of the arithmetic processing input by the reception processing unit 24, the determination unit 121a of the inspection / selection control unit 121 selects the determination result according to the arithmetic processing result from the external data processing device 50. The sorting control signal is output to the control unit 121b, and the sorting control unit 121b generates a sorting control signal that instructs whether or not the workpiece W is sorted and discharged to the outside of the conveyor conveyance path 5 in response to the determination result.

  The inspection / selection control unit 121 is a case where the individual detection information is output from the transmission processing unit 23 as in the case of the inspection / selection control unit 21 of the first embodiment. When the processing result of the arithmetic processing is not input to the reception processing unit 24 within the selection delay time Td, processing information reception error notification information indicating that reception of the processing result has failed is generated. The inspection / selection control unit 121 and the error notification unit 27 constitute reception error notification means. When the processing result reception error is notified by the error notification unit 27, the selection control unit 121b generates a selection control signal for selecting and discharging the work W to the outside of the conveyor conveyance path 5.

  Also in this embodiment, it is possible to reduce the cost, reduce the size, and increase the life of the weight sorter 100 that does not require a high-performance computing CPU and that has a simplified apparatus configuration. In addition, by performing communication processing that can effectively use other hardware resources on the network such as the external data processing device 50, even if the data transfer is slightly changed or the order of arrival is disturbed, it is complicated. It is possible to provide a highly reliable weight sorter capable of reliably reconstructing processing result data of advanced arithmetic processing. As a result, it is possible to provide a weight sorter that is excellent in reliability and capable of constructing an article inspection system that can flexibly respond to a management request for traceability information.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, one item sorting device 1, metal detector 61, or weight sorter 100 can be connected to a network with respect to one external data processing device 50 or 90. However, a plurality of article sorting apparatuses 1, metal detectors 61, or weight sorters 100 can be connected to one external data processing apparatus 50 or 90, for example, a plurality of article sorting apparatuses 1 It goes without saying that the metal detector 61 or the weight sorter 100 can be installed in a plurality of parallel lines that produce the same type of workpiece W, and the calculation and management of the inspection results can be collectively processed for that type. Nor. Also, a plurality of external data processing devices 50 or 90 are prepared for one or a plurality of article sorting apparatuses 1, metal detectors 61 or weight sorters 100 to perform a plurality of types of processing, data accumulation, etc. It is possible to share it. In this case, it is preferable to use the identification information for each process together with the identification information of the workpiece.

  As described above, the present invention eliminates the need for a high-performance processing CPU and can reduce the cost and size / life of the article sorting apparatus and effectively utilize hardware resources on the network. With reliable communication and data identification function, so that even if the data transfer is slightly back and forth or the order of arrival is disturbed, the processing result data can be reliably reconstructed by associating the identification information. As a result, it is possible to provide an article sorting apparatus capable of constructing a system that is excellent in reliability and can flexibly respond to traceability information management requests. An article sorting apparatus having a detection region, for example, a predetermined pass / fail judgment process is executed based on a detection signal corresponding to the amount of X-ray absorption by the article and the influence on the detected magnetic field. It is useful for goods sorting apparatus in general.

It is the block diagram which shows schematic structure of 1st Embodiment of the goods selection apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the outline | summary of the data transmission process in 1st Embodiment of the goods selection apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is the explanatory drawing which shows the outline | summary of the data transmission process in 2nd Embodiment of the goods selection apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is the block diagram which shows schematic structure of 3rd Embodiment of the goods selection apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is the explanatory drawing which shows the outline | summary of the data transmission process in 3rd Embodiment of the goods selection apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is the block diagram which shows schematic structure of 4th Embodiment of the goods selection apparatus which concerns on this invention.

Explanation of symbols

1 Article sorting device 5, 65 Conveyor transport path (transport path)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10, 110 Detection means 11, 71 Detection area 12 X-ray source 14 X-ray detection part 20, 120 Control means 21, 121 Inspection / selection control part 21a, 84e, 121a Judgment part (judgment means, individual detection information output means)
21b, 87, 121b Sorting control unit (sorting control means)
22, 84b First ID generation unit (first identification information generation unit, individual detection information output unit)
23 Transmission processing unit (individual detection information output means)
24 Reception processing unit (result input means)
25 Inspection information storage unit 26, 84f Communication port unit (communication interface circuit unit)
27 Error notification unit (reception error notification means)
28 detection drive unit 29 sorting drive unit 31 setting operation unit 33, 73 work detection sensor (article detection means)
40, 88 Sorter 50, 90 External data processor 51 Data processor 52 Second ID generator (second identification information generator)
61 Metal detector (article sorter)
70 Detection part (detection means)
81 signal generator 82 magnetic field generator 83 magnetic field detector 84 detection controller 84c communication processor (individual detection information output means, result input means)
100 Weight sorter (article sorter)
114 Weight detector

Claims (7)

Detection means (10;) having a detection area (11; 71) on a conveyance path (5; 65) on which the article (W) is conveyed, and outputting a detection signal indicating the quality state of the article passing through the detection area. 70; 110),
Based on the detection signal of the detection means, individual detection information including the first identification information corresponding to the article and the detection signal of the article is generated and output to the external data processing device (50; 90). Individual detection information output means (22 and 23; 84b and 84c);
A result input means (24; 84c) for inputting the processing result of the individual detection information calculated by the external data processing device together with the second identification information corresponding to the processing result;
Judgment means (21a; 84e; 121a) for judging correspondence between the first identification signal and the second identification signal and outputting the judgment result;
An article sorting device comprising sorting control means (21b; 87; 121b) for receiving the judgment result and the processing result and generating a sorting control signal.   A communication interface circuit section (26; 84f) capable of forming a node on a predetermined local area network, and from the individual detection information output means to the external data processing apparatus which is another node on the local area network; 2. The article selection apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the individual detection information is transmitted and output, and the processing result is input from the external data processing apparatus to the result input means.   When the individual detection information is output from the individual detection information output means, and the processing result of the arithmetic processing is not input to the result input means within a predetermined time from the output time point, the processing result reception input The article sorting apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising reception error notifying means (21 and 27; 121 and 27) for notifying that a failure has occurred.   When the reception error notification means notifies the processing result reception error, the selection control means selects and discharges the article to the outside of the conveyance path based on the notification information of the processing result reception error. The article sorting apparatus according to claim 3, wherein   In the case where the individual detection information is output from the individual detection information output means, the article related to the output from the output time point until the predetermined sorting position on the conveyance path is reached. The reception error notification means (21 and 27; 121 and 27) for notifying that reception of the processing result has failed when a processing result is not input to the result input means is provided. The article sorting apparatus as described. Comprising article detection means for detecting that the article has reached a predetermined position upstream of the detection area of the detection means on the conveyance path;
When the processing result of the arithmetic processing is not input to the result input means between the time when the article is detected by the article detection means and the time when the article reaches a predetermined sorting position on the transport path, the processing is performed. The article sorting apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a reception error notifying unit that notifies that the result reception input has failed.   When the individual detection information output means needs to transmit and output the individual detection information to the external data processing device, the individual detection information output means sends a response request signal to the external data processing device. The article selection apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the individual detection information is transmitted and output to the external data processing apparatus only when a response signal corresponding to the signal is received.

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