JP6528665B2 - Sample identification method and sample identification device - Google Patents

Description

  In the present invention, resin pieces as an actual sample are transported at a constant speed on a transport path, and infrared light is irradiated to the measurement area provided on the transport path, whereby the actual light is reflected based on the reflected light from the measurement area. The present invention relates to a sample identification method and a sample identification device for identifying the type of sample.

  Conventionally, in the field of resin recycling technology and the like, a sample identification method is known which identifies the type of resin piece as a sample by an optical method. For example, a sample is transported on a transport path moving at a constant speed, infrared light is irradiated to a measurement area provided on the transport path, and sample identification is performed to identify the type of sample based on reflected light from the measurement area A method is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

  In such a sample identification method, the infrared light is irradiated in a state where the sample transported on the transport path is disposed in the measurement area, and thus the reflected light is generated with a reflectance according to the type of sample. Then, the type of sample can be identified by subjecting the interferogram based on the reflected light to Fourier transform and analyzing the obtained spectrum.

JP, 2014-157148, A

  In the conventional sample identification method as described above, there is a possibility that the identification of the sample type is incorrect. Specifically, in the conventional sample identification method, the measurement area has a certain size (range). Therefore, when the spectrum is analyzed based on the reflected light in a state in which a partial area in the measurement area overlaps with a part of the sample, the reflected light is reflected from the transport path in addition to the reflected light from the sample The mixing of the light causes a problem that the identification of the sample type is erroneous.

  Therefore, if only data based on the reflected light of the sample is selected and analyzed from the obtained interferogram or spectrum data, the sample type can be correctly identified.

  However, if the type of sample to be identified is large and the size is also variable, the intensity of the interferogram or spectrum based on the reflected light will also be variable. Therefore, it is difficult to select only the data based on the reflected light of the sample, paying attention to the intensity of the obtained interferogram or spectrum data.

  Also, for example, a detector for detecting a sample moving on the conveyance path is provided, the distance from the detection position by the detector to the measurement area is measured, and the sample passes the detection position from the distance and the conveyance speed of the conveyance path. A method of calculating in advance the time from when the signal is placed in the measurement region to the time after it is considered is considered. The type of sample can be identified by analyzing the interferogram or spectrum based on the light reflected from the measurement area based on the timing at which the time calculated in advance has elapsed from the time when the sample passes the detection position. .

However, because infrared light is invisible, it is difficult to accurately determine the position of the measurement area. In addition, the transport speed has an error inherent to the apparatus with respect to the design value. Therefore, an error may occur in the above-described pre-computed time, and in this case, there is a problem that the identification of the type of sample is erroneous.
The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a sample identification method and a sample identification apparatus capable of accurately identifying an actual sample.

(1) The sample identification method according to the present invention transports the resin piece as an actual sample at a constant speed on the transport path, and irradiates the measurement area provided on the transport path with infrared light A sample identification method for identifying the type of an actual sample based on reflected light from a measurement area, comprising a first transport step, a first detection step, a first data acquisition step, a second transport step, and a second transport step. It includes a detection step, a second data acquisition step, a timing determination step, and a sample identification step. In the first transport step, a simulated sample having a reflectance different from that of the transport path is transported on the transport path. In the first detection step, the passage sensor detects a simulated sample that passes through a passage region provided upstream of the measurement region in the transport direction. In the first data acquisition step, an interferogram or spectrum is acquired as first data by receiving reflected light from the measurement area when the simulated sample passes the measurement area with a spectrophotometer. In the second transport step, the actual sample is transported on the transport path. In the second detection step, an actual sample passing through the passage area is detected by the passage sensor. In the second data acquisition step, an interferogram or spectrum is acquired as second data by receiving the reflected light from the measurement area when the actual sample passes through the measurement area with the spectrophotometer. In the timing determination step, based on the detection signal from the passage sensor in the first detection step, the detection signal from the passage sensor in the second detection step, and the first data, an actual value in the second data is determined. The start and end points of the data corresponding to the reflected light from the sample are determined. In the sample identification step, the type of actual sample is identified based on data from the start point to the end point.

  According to such a method, since the simulated sample having a reflectance different from that of the transport path is transported on the transport path, when the reflected light from the measurement area when the simulated sample passes the measurement area is received by the spectrophotometer In the first data acquired in, the data based on the reflected light from the transport path and the data based on the reflected light from the simulated sample appear distinctly. That is, in the first data, the presence or absence of data based on the reflected light from the simulated sample and the timing at which the data based on the reflected light from the simulated sample is obtained clearly appear. Then, based on the first data, the detection signal when the simulated sample is detected by the passage sensor, and the detection signal when the actual sample is detected by the passage sensor, the reflected light from the actual sample in the second data is handled. The start and end points of the data to be

Therefore, the start point and the end point of the data corresponding to the reflected light from the actual sample in the second data can be appropriately determined, and the type of the actual sample can be identified based on the data from the start point to the end point. That is, based on appropriate data, the type of actual sample can be identified.
As a result, the actual sample can be identified with high accuracy.

(2) Further, in the timing determination step, based on the detection signal from the passage sensor in the first detection step and the first data, it is preset as the start point for the detection timing in the second detection step. The start timing may be determined by shifting the timing, and the timing after a predetermined time from the start timing may be determined as the end timing.

  According to such a method, the data corresponding to the reflected light from the actual sample can be determined by a simple method of shifting the timing preset as the start point of the data.

(3) Further, in the timing determination step, the start point and the end with respect to the detection timing in the second detection step based on the detection signal from the passage sensor in the first detection step and the first data. The start point and the end point may be determined by shifting the timing preset as the point.

  According to such a method, it is possible to more accurately determine the data corresponding to the reflected light from the actual sample by shifting the timing preset as the start point and the end point of the data.

(4) Moreover, the sample identification apparatus which concerns on this invention conveys the resin piece as a real sample at fixed speed on a conveyance path, and irradiates an infrared light with respect to the measurement area | region provided on the said conveyance path. A sample identification device for identifying the type of an actual sample based on reflected light from the measurement area, wherein the pass sensor, the spectrophotometer, the first data acquisition processor, and the second data acquisition processor; A timing determination processing unit and a sample identification processing unit are provided. The passage sensor detects a conveyed object passing through a passage area provided upstream of the measurement area in the conveyance direction. The spectrophotometer receives the reflected light from the measurement area when the object passes through the measurement area. The first data acquisition processing unit generates an interferogram or a spectrum as first data based on output data from the spectrophotometer when a simulated sample having a reflectance different from that of the transport path passes through the measurement area. Get as. The second data acquisition processing unit acquires an interferogram or spectrum as second data based on output data from the spectrophotometer when an actual sample passes through the measurement area. The timing determination processing unit detects a detection signal from the passage sensor when the simulated sample passes the passage region, a detection signal from the passage sensor when the actual sample passes the passage region, and the first Based on the data, start and end points of data corresponding to reflected light from the actual sample in the second data are determined. The sample identification processing unit identifies the type of actual sample based on data from the start point to the end point.

  According to such a configuration, in the first data acquired by the first data acquisition processing unit, data based on the reflected light from the transport path and data based on the reflected light from the simulated sample appear to be clearly distinguished. . That is, in the first data acquired by the first data acquisition processing unit, the presence or absence of data based on the reflected light from the simulated sample and the timing at which the data based on the reflected light from the simulated sample is obtained clearly appear. Then, based on the first data, the detection signal when the simulated sample is detected by the passage sensor, and the detection signal when the actual sample is detected by the passage sensor, the timing determination processing unit performs an actual sample in the second data. Determine the start and end points of the data corresponding to the reflected light from.

Therefore, the timing determination processing unit can appropriately determine the start point and the end point of the data corresponding to the reflected light from the actual sample in the second data, and the sample identification processing unit sets the data from the start point to the end point. Based on the type of real sample can be identified. That is, based on appropriate data, the type of actual sample can be identified.
As a result, the actual sample can be identified with high accuracy.

(5) Further, the timing determination processing unit causes the actual sample to pass through the passage area based on the first data and the detection signal from the passage sensor when the simulated sample passes through the passage area. The start point may be determined by shifting a timing preset as the start point with respect to the detection timing by the passage sensor at the time, and the timing after a predetermined time from the start point may be determined as the end point.

  According to such a configuration, the data corresponding to the reflected light from the actual sample can be determined by a simple method of shifting the timing preset as the start point of the data.

(6) Further, the timing determination processing unit causes the actual sample to pass through the passage area based on the first data and the detection signal from the passage sensor when the simulated sample passes through the passage area. The start point and the end point may be determined by respectively shifting the timing previously set as the start point and the end point with respect to the detection timing by the passage sensor at the time.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to more accurately determine the data corresponding to the reflected light from the actual sample by shifting the timing preset as the start point and the end point of the data.

  According to the present invention, in the first data acquired when the reflected light from the measurement area is received by the spectrophotometer when the simulated sample passes the measurement area, the data based on the reflected light from the transport path; The data based on the reflected light from the simulated sample appears distinctly. Then, based on the first data, the detection signal when the simulated sample is detected by the passage sensor, and the detection signal when the actual sample is detected by the passage sensor, the reflected light from the actual sample in the second data is corresponded. Based on the appropriate data, real sample types can be identified to determine the start and end points of the data. As a result, the actual sample can be identified with high accuracy.

It is the schematic which showed the structural example of the sample identification apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 2 is a side sectional view showing the sample identification device of FIG. 1; It is the block diagram which showed the specific structure of the control part of the sample identification apparatus of FIG. 1, and the member of the periphery of it. FIG. 3 is a side sectional view showing a state in which a simulated sample is transported in the sample identification apparatus of FIG. 2; It is an example of the process by the control part of a sample identification apparatus, Comprising: It is the flowchart which showed the process in the case of conveying simulated sample. It is a graph which is an example of the time-dependent change of the spectral intensity obtained when a simulation sample is conveyed in a sample identification device, and the start point of data extraction shows the case earlier than the data corresponding to a simulation sample. It is a graph which is an example of a time-dependent change of the spectrum intensity obtained when a simulation sample is conveyed in a sample identification device, and the start point of data extraction is late to the data corresponding to a simulation sample. It is a graph which shows an example of a case where a starting point of data extraction is shifted which is an example of a temporal change of a spectral intensity obtained when a simulated sample is transported in a sample identification device. It is an example of the process by the control part of a sample identification apparatus, Comprising: It is the flowchart which showed the process in the case of conveying an actual sample. It is the graph which showed an example of the time-dependent change of the spectral intensity obtained when a real sample is conveyed in a sample identification device. It is an example of the temporal change of the spectral intensity obtained when the simulated sample is transported in the sample identification device according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and the start point of the data extraction is faster than the data corresponding to the simulated sample. And, it is a graph showing the case where the end point of the data extraction is late with respect to the data corresponding to the simulated sample. A graph showing an example of temporal change in spectral intensity obtained when a simulated sample is transported in the sample identification device according to the second embodiment of the present invention, wherein the start point and the end point of data extraction are shifted It is. It is the graph which showed an example of the time-dependent change of the spectral intensity obtained at the time of conveying an actual sample in the sample identification apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention.

1. Overall Configuration of Sample Identification Device FIG. 1 is a schematic view showing a configuration example of a sample identification device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a side sectional view showing the sample identification device 1 of FIG.

  The sample identification device 1 is a device for identifying the type of resin piece, and includes a conveyance path 2, a sample supply unit 3, a sample selection unit 4, a passage sensor 5, and a spectrophotometer 6. .

  The transport path 2 is a mechanism for transporting the sample S, and includes, for example, a belt conveyor, and has a long shape. The transport path 2 is configured by winding a belt-like belt around a plurality of rollers (not shown), and the rotation of the rollers causes the belt to move around. Specifically, the upper surface of the belt of the transport path 2 is disposed along the horizontal plane. Then, when the roller rotates, the upper surface of the belt of the transport path 2 moves on the horizontal surface at a constant speed from one end to the other end. The belt of the conveyance path 2 is made of, for example, stainless steel (SUS) having a high reflectance. In addition, a collection box 7 and a non-collection box 8 are disposed downstream of the other end of the conveyance path 2 in the moving direction (the conveyance direction) of the upper surface of the conveyance path 2.

  The sample supply unit 3 is disposed at one end of the transport path 2. The sample supply unit 3 is configured to supply the sample S, which is an identification object, onto one end of the transport path 2. The sample S is an example of an actual sample and is made of various resin materials.

  The sample sorting unit 4 is disposed at the other end of the transport path 2. The sample sorting unit 4 includes a compressed air nozzle (not shown), and is configured to inject compressed air from the compressed air nozzle in a direction away from the transport path 2.

  The passage sensor 5 is disposed above one end of the conveyance path 2. The passage sensor 5 is disposed downstream of the sample supply unit 3 in the transport direction. The passage sensor 5 includes, for example, a laser light emitting unit (not shown) and a reflected light receiving unit. As shown in FIG. 2, an area on the conveyance path 2 disposed below the passage sensor 5 is formed as a passage area A. The laser beam emitting portion of the passage sensor 5 is configured to emit the laser beam toward the transport path 2 (passage region A). The reflected light receiving unit of the passage sensor 5 is configured to receive the reflected light from the transport path 2 and the reflected light from the transported object transported on the transport path 2. In other words, the reflected light receiving unit of the passage sensor 5 is configured to receive the reflected light from the passage area A. Then, the passage sensor 5 detects that the conveyed object conveyed on the conveyance path 2 has passed through the passage area A based on the reflected light.

As shown in FIG. 1, the spectrophotometer 6 is a Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FT-IR), and includes a light source unit 11, an interference unit 12, an irradiation light receiving unit 13, and an infrared detector 14. And have.
The light source unit 11 is a mechanism for emitting infrared light, and includes an infrared light source 15, condensing mirrors 16 and 17, and an aperture 18.

The infrared light source 15 is a light source that emits infrared light. The wave number of the infrared light emitted by the infrared light source 15 is, for example, 400 to 8000 cm ⁻¹ .
The condensing mirror 16 is disposed to face the infrared light source 15.
The condensing mirror 17 is disposed on the downstream side of the condensing mirror 16 in the light path so as to be separated from the condensing mirror 16.
The aperture 18 is disposed between the focusing mirror 16 and the focusing mirror 17.

  The interference unit 12 is a mechanism for generating infrared interference light, and is disposed downstream of the light source unit 11 in the light path. The interference unit 12 includes a half mirror 21, a fixed mirror 22, a movable mirror 23, and a drive unit 24.

The half mirror 21 is disposed at a distance from the focusing mirror 17. The half mirror 21 is a mirror capable of transmitting the rest of the incident light while reflecting a part of the incident light.
The fixed mirror 22 is disposed to face the focusing mirror 17 with the half mirror 21 interposed therebetween. The fixed mirror 22 is arranged to be fixed at a fixed position.

The movable mirror 23 is disposed at a distance from the half mirror 21 and the fixed mirror 22. The movable mirror 23 is configured to be movable in a direction connecting the half mirror 21 and the movable mirror 23.
The driving unit 24 includes, for example, a motor and is configured to apply a driving force to the movable mirror 23.

The irradiation light receiving unit 13 is a mechanism for irradiating the generated infrared light toward the transport path 2 and receiving the reflected light of the infrared light, and in the optical path, on the downstream side of the interference unit 12 It is arranged. The irradiation and reception unit 13 includes an irradiation parabolic mirror 25, a light receiving parabolic mirror 26, and a condensing mirror 27.
The irradiation parabolic mirror 25 is disposed above the central portion of the transport path 2.
The light receiving parabolic mirror 26 is disposed above the central portion of the transport path 2 and upstream of the irradiation parabolic mirror 25 in the transport direction.

A measurement area B is formed in the area on the transport path 2 and in the area between the irradiation parabolic mirror 25 and the light receiving parabolic mirror 26 in plan view. The measurement area B is an irradiation area of infrared light irradiated onto the transport path 2 from the irradiation parabolic mirror 25. The light receiving parabola mirror 26 is configured to receive the reflected light from the transport path 2 and the reflected light from the transported object transported on the transport path 2. In other words, the light receiving parabolic mirror 26 is configured to receive the reflected light from the measurement area B.
The focusing mirror 27 is disposed at a distance from the light receiving parabolic mirror 26.

The infrared detector 14 is, for example, an MCT (HgCdTe) detector, and is disposed at a distance from the focusing mirror 27. The infrared detector 14 is configured to detect incident infrared light and obtain a detection signal according to the infrared light. Specifically, the infrared detector 14 is configured to obtain an interferogram according to infrared light.
In addition, plane mirrors 31 to 33 are disposed between the interference unit 12 and the light receiving unit 13 in the optical path.

  As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, in the case of identifying the type of resin piece in the sample identification device 1, first, a plurality of samples S which are identification objects, from the sample supply unit 3 to one end of the transport path 2 Supply to the department sequentially. The sample S is made of any of a plurality of resin materials including resin materials to be recycled, and is made of, for example, PP (polypropylene), PS (polystyrene), PE (polyethylene), ABS or the like.

The sample S supplied onto the transport path 2 moves on the transport path at a constant speed from one end to the other end. At this time, the passage sensor 5 sequentially detects that the sample S on the conveyance path 2 has passed through the passage area A.
Then, the sample S having passed through the passage area A is conveyed on the conveyance path 2 and reaches the measurement area B.

  In the spectrophotometer 6, infrared light is emitted from the infrared light source 15. Then, the infrared light is condensed by being reflected by the condensing mirror 16, passes through the aperture 18, and is then incident on the condensing mirror 17. The infrared light incident on the condensing mirror 17 is condensed by being reflected and is incident on the half mirror 21.

  A part of the infrared light incident on the half mirror 21 is transmitted through the half mirror 21 to be incident on the fixed mirror 22, and the rest is reflected by the half mirror 21 to be incident on the movable mirror 23. At this time, the movable mirror 23 is moved by the application of the driving force from the drive unit 24.

  The infrared light reflected by the fixed mirror 22 is reflected by the half mirror 21 and travels to the plane mirror 31. The infrared light reflected by the movable mirror 23 passes through the half mirror 21 and travels to the plane mirror 31. Thus, the infrared light reflected by the fixed mirror 22 and the infrared light reflected by the moving mirror 23 are combined and travel toward the plane mirror 31 as infrared interference light. The combined infrared light is reflected by the plane mirrors 31 to 33 and enters the irradiation parabolic mirror 25.

  And the infrared light which injected into the parabola mirror 25 for irradiation is condensed by being reflected, and the measurement area | region B is irradiated. The light receiving parabolic mirror 26 receives infrared light reflected from the measurement area B, reflects the infrared light, and emits the light toward the condensing mirror 27.

  The infrared light that has entered the light collecting mirror 27 is collected by being reflected and enters the infrared detector 14. The infrared detector 14 outputs an interferogram corresponding to the infrared light as a detection signal.

When the sample S transported on the transport path 2 is disposed in the measurement area B, the infrared light irradiated from the irradiation parabolic mirror 25 toward the measurement area B is irradiated to the sample S. Also, depending on the components contained in the sample S, light of a specific wavelength of infrared light is absorbed, and the other light is reflected.
The light receiving parabolic mirror 26 receives infrared light reflected from the sample S, reflects the infrared light, and emits the light toward the condensing mirror 27.

  The infrared light that has entered the light collecting mirror 27 is collected by being reflected and enters the infrared detector 14. The infrared detector 14 outputs an interferogram corresponding to the sample S as a detection signal.

  And although it mentions in detail later, in sample identification device 1, a sample is detected among detection signals which infrared detector 14 outputs based on a detection signal from infrared detector 14 and a detection result of passage sensor 5. The sample S is identified based on the detection signal corresponding to S. When the sample S is formed of the material to be collected as a result of the identification of the sample S, the sample sorting unit 4 is at the timing when the sample S reaches the other end of the transport path 2. The compressed air is injected, and when the sample S is not formed of the material to be collected, the compressed air is not injected.

  As a result, as shown in FIG. 2, the sample S formed of the material to be recovered is blown away by the compressed air from the sample sorting unit 4 and is stored in the recovery box 7. In addition, when it is not formed of the material to be recovered, it falls downward from the other end of the transport path 2 and is accommodated in the non-recovery box 8.

2. Sample Identification Method As described above, in the sample identification device 1, the sample S is irradiated with infrared light when disposed in the measurement area B provided on the transport path 2, and is obtained from the reflected light thereof The type is identified by analyzing based on the detection signal.

  Specifically, the sample identification device 1 stores the distance L from the passage area A to the measurement area B (the downstream end of the measurement area B in the conveyance direction), and the conveyance speed v of the conveyance path 2 (belt movement speed) v doing. Further, in the sample identification device 1, the time from when the conveyance direction downstream end of the conveyance object conveyed on the conveyance path 2 passes through the passage area A until the conveyance object is disposed in the measurement area B is L It will be / v. That is, in the sample identification device 1, the time from when the conveyed product passes through the passage area A to when it is disposed in the measurement area B is stored.

Then, the sample identification apparatus 1, when the sample S is conveyed, the passage sensor 5, the time when the downstream end in the conveyance direction of the sample S has passed through the passage area A is detected as a t _in, the conveying direction upstream end of the sample S Detects the point in time when it passes through passage area A as t _out .

Then, the sample identification apparatus _1, when the time L / v from _{t in} has elapsed, _i.e., the time point of _t in + L / v and the start point of the data _extraction, when the time L / v from _{t out} has elapsed, i.e. The data obtained from the detection signal output from the infrared detector 14 is analyzed with the time point of t _out + L / v as the end point of data extraction to identify the type of sample S.
As described above, in the sample identification device 1, data obtained from the detection signal is analyzed on the basis of the time point when the sample S is estimated to be placed in the measurement area B.

  Here, in the sample identification device 1, the transport speed v of the transport path 2 may cause an error with respect to the design value due to the influence of friction or the like in the device. Further, since infrared light is invisible, the actual position of the measurement area B may deviate from the assumed position.

In this case, at the time of t _in + L / v described above, the downstream end of the sample S does not reach the downstream end of the measurement area B in the transport direction or the downstream end of the measurement area B It has reached the downstream side. Therefore, in addition to the data corresponding to the sample S, the data to be analyzed includes data corresponding to the transport path 2. And if the type of sample S is identified based on this data, there is a possibility that the identification may be incorrect.
Therefore, the sample identification device 1 has the following configuration, and identifies the type of sample S by the following method.

3. Specific Configuration of Control Unit and Peripheral Members FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the specific configuration of the control unit 50 of the sample identification device 1 and the peripheral members thereof.
The sample identification device 1 includes the sample sorting unit 4, the pass sensor 5, and the spectrophotometer 6 described above, and further includes a storage unit 40 and a control unit 50.

  The storage unit 40 includes, for example, a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a hard disk, and the like. The storage unit 40 stores a set time 41.

  The set time 41 is a time which is estimated as a time from when the conveyed product conveyed on the conveyance path 2 passes through the passage area A to when it is arranged in the measurement area B. Specifically, the set time 41 is the above-described time L / v.

  The control unit 50 is configured to include, for example, a central processing unit (CPU). The control unit 50 can input or output an electrical signal between the sample sorting unit 4, the pass sensor 5 and the spectrophotometer 6. The control unit 50 inputs / outputs data to / from the storage unit 40 as needed. The control unit 50 functions as a data acquisition processing unit 51, a Fourier transform processing unit 511, a timing determination processing unit 52, a sample identification processing unit 53 and the like by the CPU executing a program.

  The data acquisition processing unit 51 obtains spectral intensity distribution data based on a detection signal (interferogram) from the infrared detector 14 of the spectrophotometer 6. Specifically, the data acquisition processing unit 51 includes a Fourier transform processing unit 511. The Fourier transform processing unit 511 Fourier-transforms the interferogram input from the spectrophotometer 6 (infrared detector 14) to obtain intensity distribution data of a reflection spectrum in a predetermined wave number range.

  The timing determination processing unit 52 reads the set time 41 stored in the storage unit 40, and is obtained by the data acquisition processing unit 51 based on the read set time 41 and a detection signal input from the passage sensor 5. In the spectrum intensity distribution data, the start point and the end point of the data corresponding to the sample S are determined.

  The sample identification processing unit 53 analyzes the data to be analyzed based on the intensity distribution data of the spectrum obtained by the data acquisition processing unit 51 and the start point and end point of the data determined by the timing determination processing unit 52 (sample Extract data corresponding to S). Then, the sample identification processing unit 53 identifies the type of the sample S by comparing the extracted data with predetermined data.

4. Identification Method Using a Simulated Sample FIG. 4 is a side sectional view showing a state in which the simulated sample M is transported in the sample identification device 1. FIG. 5 is an example of processing by the control unit 50 of the sample identification device 1 and is a flowchart showing processing in the case of transporting the simulated sample M.

  When identifying the sample S with the sample identification device 1, the operator first operates the operation unit (not shown) to select the simulated sample mode. Then, the operator causes the simulated sample M to be transported on the transport path 2 in a state where the sample identification device 1 is in the simulated sample mode (step S101).

  The simulated sample M is made of a material having a reflectance of infrared light different from that of the transport path 2. In other words, the simulated sample M is made of a material having a small amount of reflection so that it can be distinguished that the amount of reflection is small compared to the transport path 2. Specifically, the simulated sample M is made of a material having a very low reflectance of infrared light, and is made of, for example, a black felt or a black suede. Also, the size of the simulated sample M is larger than the size (range) of the measurement area B.

Then, the passage sensor 5 detects, as t _in (M), the time when the downstream end of the simulated sample M in the conveyance direction passes through the passage area A, and the time when the upstream end of the simulated sample M passes through the passage area A It is detected as t _out (M) (YES in step S102).

  Further, in the spectrophotometer 6, infrared light is irradiated toward the measurement area B, and reflected light from the measurement area B is incident on the infrared detector 14. The infrared detector 14 outputs an interferogram corresponding to the infrared light as a detection signal, and the control unit 50 receives the detection signal. In the data acquisition processing unit 51, the Fourier transform processing unit 511 performs Fourier transform on the interferogram input from the infrared detector 14 to acquire intensity distribution data of the reflection spectrum as first data (step S103). ).

  That is, when the simulated sample M is transported on the transport path 2, the spectrum data obtained by the data acquisition processing unit 51 based on the output data from the spectrophotometer 6 is the first data. At this time, the data acquisition processing unit 51 functions as a first data acquisition processing unit that acquires the first data.

Further, the control unit 50 receives a detection signal from the passage sensor 5. Specifically, the control unit 50 receives signals corresponding to the information of t _in (M) and t _out (M) described above. Further, the timing determination processing unit 52 reads the set time 41 stored in the storage unit 40. Specifically, the timing determination processing unit 52 reads the information of the above-described time L / v. Then, in the spectrum data generated by the data acquisition processing unit 51, the timing determination processing unit 52 outputs data immediately after the time point (start point) of t _in (M) + L / v, and t _out (M) + L / v. Extract data immediately before the point of time v (end point).

  Then, the timing determination processing unit 52 determines whether or not the extracted data corresponds to the data obtained based on the reflected light from the simulated sample M (whether or not the spectral intensity is around 0), and corresponds. If not, the start point and the end point are changed and the elapsed time T is determined so that the extracted data corresponds to the data obtained based on the reflected light from the simulated sample M (step S104).

  FIG. 6A is an example of a temporal change in spectral intensity obtained when the simulated sample M is transported in the sample identification device 1, and the start point of data extraction is earlier than the data corresponding to the simulated sample M. It is a graph shown. FIG. 6B is an example of a temporal change in spectral intensity obtained when the simulated sample M is transported in the sample identification device 1, and the start point of data extraction is slower than the data corresponding to the simulated sample M. It is a graph shown. 6A and 6B, the vertical axis represents the spectrum intensity obtained by the data acquisition processing unit 51, and the horizontal axis represents time.

  In FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B, data C is displayed as spectrum data generated by the data acquisition processing unit 51. The data acquisition processing unit 51 generates spectrum data at predetermined time intervals. Therefore, data C is displayed as data in which points are gathered.

  In the data C, a portion where the spectral intensity represents a constant large value is transport path data D that represents a spectrum based on the reflected light from the transport path 2. Further, in the data C, a portion in which the spectral intensity is close to 0 is simulated sample data E representing a spectrum based on the reflected light from the simulated sample M. Also, in the data C, a portion representing a value between the spectral intensity of the transport path data D and the spectral intensity of the simulated sample data E is the reflected light from the transport path 2 and the reflected light from the simulated sample M. It is mixed data F showing the spectrum based on.

In FIG. 6A, it can be confirmed that the area G from the start point to the end point does not match the simulated sample data E, and the mixed data F is included in the area G. Specifically, it can be confirmed that the point of time t _in (M) + L / v, which is the start point of the region G, is earlier than the point of time when the simulated sample data E starts to appear.
This means that the downstream end of the simulated sample M in the transport direction has not reached the downstream end of the measurement region B at the time of t _in (M) + L / v on the transport path 2.

Similarly, in FIG. 6B, it can be confirmed that the mixed data F is included in the area G, and the point of time t _in (M) + L / v, which is the start point of the area G, is for Can be confirmed to be slow.
This means that the downstream end of the simulated sample M in the transport direction has reached the downstream side of the measurement area B in the transport direction at the time of t _in (M) + L / v on the transport path 2. doing.

In this case, the timing determination processing unit 52 changes L / v to newly determine the elapsed time T.
Specifically, in the timing determination processing unit 52, the spectral intensity immediately after t _in (M) + L / v in the data C is larger than the spectral intensity (intensity near 0) of the simulated sample data E. When the spectral intensity immediately before t _out (M) + L / v is the spectral intensity of the simulated sample data E, the starting point of data extraction is set by setting the time longer than L / v as the elapsed time T. Shift it later.

On the other hand, in the timing determination processing unit 52, the spectral intensity immediately after t _in (M) + L / v _in the data C is the spectral intensity of the simulated sample data E, and in t _out (M) + L / v in the data C. If the previous spectral intensity is larger than the spectral intensity of the simulated sample data E, the start point of data extraction is shifted forward by setting the time shorter than L / v as the elapsed time T.

  FIG. 6C is a graph showing an example of the temporal change of the spectral intensity obtained when the simulated sample M is transported in the sample identification apparatus 1 and in which the start point of data extraction is shifted.

The timing determination processing unit 52 repeatedly changes the elapsed time T until the first data of the simulated sample data E comes to appear immediately after t _in (M) + T in the data C, and finally, t _in the data C The elapsed time T is determined so that the first data of the simulated sample data E appears immediately after (M) + T.

As described above, the timing determination processing unit 52 changes L / v to determine the elapsed time T, and the point of time t _in (M) + L / v preset as the start point of data extraction is t _in (M Shift to the time of) + T
Then, in an actual sample mode to be described later, the timing determination processing unit 52 determines a start point and an end point of data extraction using the elapsed time T.
FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing an example of processing by the control unit 50 of the sample identification device 1 and processing when an actual sample is transported.

  When the implementation of the above-described simulated sample mode is completed in the sample identification device 1, the operator operates the operation unit (not shown) to select the actual sample mode. Then, the operator causes the sample S to be transported on the transport path 2 in a state where the sample identification device 1 is in the actual sample mode (step S201).

The passage sensor 5, the time when the downstream end in the conveyance direction of the sample S has passed through the passage area A is detected as a t _in, detects the time when the conveyance direction upstream end of the sample S has passed through the passage region A as t _out (YES in step S202).

  Further, in the spectrophotometer 6, infrared light is irradiated toward the measurement area B, and reflected light from the measurement area B is incident on the infrared detector 14. The infrared detector 14 outputs an interferogram corresponding to the infrared light as a detection signal, and the control unit 50 receives the detection signal. In the data acquisition processing unit 51, the Fourier transform processing unit 511 performs Fourier transform on the interferogram input from the infrared detector 14 to acquire intensity distribution data of the reflection spectrum as second data (step S203). ).

That is, when the sample S is transported on the transport path 2, the spectrum data obtained by the data acquisition processing unit 51 based on the output data from the spectrophotometer 6 is the second data.
At this time, the data acquisition processing unit 51 functions as a second data acquisition processing unit that acquires the second data.

Further, the control unit 50 receives a detection signal from the passage sensor 5. Specifically, the control unit 50, a signal corresponding to the information of the above-mentioned t _in and t _out are input. Further, the timing determination processing unit 52 reads the set time 41 stored in the storage unit 40. Specifically, the timing determination processing unit 52 reads the information of the above-described time L / v. Then, in the spectrum data generated by the data acquisition processing unit 51, the timing determination processing unit 52 determines the time point of t _in + T as the start point of the data range to be extracted. Further, the timing determination processing unit 52 determines the time point of t _out + T as the end point of the data range to be extracted in the spectrum data generated by the data acquisition processing unit 51 (step S 204). The time point of t _out + T can also be determined as the time point of t _out −t _in, which is a fixed time, from the time point of t _in + T.

Then, the sample identification processing unit 53 extracts data from the time of t _in + T to the time of t _out + T from the second data acquired by the data acquisition processing unit 51, and the sample S is sampled based on the extracted data. The type is identified (step S205). In addition, the sample identification processing unit 53 controls the operation of the sample sorting unit 4 based on the identification result of the sample S.

  Thereafter, the control from step S202 to step S205 is repeated until analysis in the sample identification device 1 is completed, whereby a plurality of samples S are identified, and when analysis in the sample identification device 1 is completed (step S206 YES), end control for sample identification.

FIG. 8 is a graph showing an example of the temporal change of the spectral intensity obtained when the sample S is transported in the sample identification device 1.
In FIG. 8, the start point of the region I extracted from the data H which is the second data is t _in + T, and the end point is t _out + T. As a result, the extracted data is sample data corresponding to the sample S It can confirm that it corresponds to J. That is, when data from the time of t _in + T to the time of t _out + T is extracted from the second data, it can be confirmed that the data becomes data corresponding to the sample S.

5. Operation and Effect (1) In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the operator has a reflectance different from that of the conveyance path 2 on the conveyance path 2 in a state where the sample identification device 1 is in the simulated sample mode. The simulated sample M is transported (step S101).

  Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, in the simulated sample mode, in data C which is the first data acquired by the data acquisition processing unit 51, conveyance path data D which is data based on reflected light from the conveyance path 2 And simulated sample data E, which is data based on reflected light from the simulated sample M, clearly appear. That is, in the data C which is the first data, the presence or absence of the simulated sample data E and the timing at which the simulated sample data E is obtained clearly appear.

Further, the timing determination processing unit 52 is data C which is the first data, information of t _in (M) and t _out (M) obtained from the passage sensor 5, L as a set time 41 stored in the storage unit 40. Based on the information of / v, the elapsed time T which changed L / v is determined. Then, in the actual sample mode, the timing determination processing unit 52 determines the time point of t _in + T as the start point of the data range to be extracted _{in the} data H which is the second data, and extracts the time point of t _out + T. Determined at the end of the data range.

Therefore, the start point and the end point for extracting the sample data J in the data H can be appropriately determined, and the type of the sample S can be identified based on the data from the start point to the end point. That is, the type of sample S can be identified based on appropriate data.
As a result, the sample S can be identified with high accuracy.

(2) Further, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6C, the timing determination processing unit 52 determines that the time point of t _in (M) + L / v preset as the start point of data extraction is t _in The elapsed time T is determined to shift to the time of (M) + T, and the starting point of data extraction in the data H shown in FIG. 8 is determined.
That is, the range of data extraction in the data H can be determined by a simple method of only shifting the timing preset as the start point of data extraction.

6. Second Embodiment A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 9A to 10. In the following, the same reference numerals are used for the same configuration and method as those of the first embodiment described above, and the description thereof is omitted.

(1) Determination of Start Point and End Point of Data Extraction In the above-described first embodiment, the timing determination processing unit 52 determines an elapsed time T in which L / v is changed. Then, the point of data extraction is determined by shifting the point of time t _in (M) + L / v previously set as the point of data extraction to the point of time t _in (M) + T.

  On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the timing determination processing unit 52 determines a first elapsed time T1 and a second elapsed time T2 in which L / v is changed. Then, using the first elapsed time T1 and the second elapsed time T2, the start point and the end point of the data extraction are respectively determined.

  FIG. 9A is an example of temporal change in spectral intensity obtained when the simulated sample M is transported in the sample identification device 1 according to the second embodiment, and the start point of data extraction corresponds to data corresponding to the simulated sample. On the other hand, it is a graph showing a case where the end point of the data extraction is late with respect to the data corresponding to the simulated sample.

Specifically, in the timing determination processing unit 52, the spectral intensity immediately after t _in (M) + L / v in the data C is larger than the spectral intensity (intensity near 0) of the simulated sample data E. If the spectral intensity immediately before t _out (M) + L / v is larger than the spectral intensity of the simulated sample data E, the first elapsed time T1 which is a time longer than L / v, and L / v The second elapsed time T2, which is also a short time, is set.

  FIG. 9B is an example of temporal change in spectral intensity obtained when the simulated sample M is transported in the sample identification device 1 according to the second embodiment, and the start point and the end point of data extraction are each shifted Is a graph showing

The timing determination processing unit 52 repeats changing of the elapsed time T1 until the first data of the simulated sample data E comes to appear immediately after t _in (M) + T1 in the data C, and finally t in the data C. _The elapsed time T1 is determined so that the first data of the simulated sample data E appears immediately after _in (M) + T1. Similarly, the timing determination processing unit 52 repeatedly changes the elapsed time T2 until the final data of the simulated sample data E comes to appear immediately before t _out (M) + T1 in the data C, and finally, the data The elapsed time T2 is determined so that the last data of the simulated sample data E appears immediately after t _out (M) + T2 at C.

Thus, the timing determination processing unit 52 changes L / v to determine the first elapsed time T1 and the second elapsed time T2, respectively. Then, the timing determination processing unit 52 shifts the point of time t _in (M) + L / v set in advance as the start point of data extraction to the point of time t _in (M) + T1, and sets it in advance as the end point of data extraction. The point of time t _out (M) + L / v is shifted to the point of time t _out (M) + T2.

Then, in the actual sample mode, the timing determination processing unit 52 determines the start point and the end point of the data extraction using the first elapsed time T1 and the second elapsed time T1.
FIG. 10 is a graph showing an example of temporal change in spectral intensity obtained when the sample S is transported in the sample identification device 1 according to the second embodiment.

In FIG. 10, the start point of the region I extracted from the data H which is the second data is t _in + T1, and the end point is t _out + T2. As a result, the extracted data is sample data corresponding to the sample S It can confirm that it corresponds to J. That is, when data from the time point of t _in + T 1 to the time point of t _out + T 2 is extracted from the second data, it can be confirmed that the data becomes data corresponding to the sample S.

(2) Operation and Effect of Second Embodiment In the second embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the timing determination processing unit 52 sets t _in (M) + L / preset as a start point of data extraction. The first elapsed time T1 is determined so that the time point of v shifts to the time point of t _in (M) + T1, and the start point of data extraction in the data H shown in FIG. 10 is determined. Also, the second elapsed time T2 is determined so that the time of t _out (M) + L / v preset as the end point of data extraction shifts to the time of t _out (M) + T2, as shown in FIG. The end point of data extraction in data H is determined.

  That is, since the timings preset as the start point and the end point of the data extraction are respectively shifted, the data corresponding to the reflected light from the sample S can be determined more accurately.

7. Modified Example In the above embodiment, the timing determination processing unit 52 obtains the elapsed time by changing L / v which is the set time 41 stored in the storage unit 40, and data extraction is performed using the elapsed time. Although it has been described that the start point and the end point are determined, the method by which the timing determination processing unit 52 determines the elapsed time is not limited to this. For example, the timing determination processing unit 52 determines, as an elapsed time, a time from when the pass sensor 5 detects the simulated sample M to when data corresponding to the simulated sample M is obtained as data based on the reflected light from the measurement region B. You may ask. Then, the start point and the end point of the data extraction may be determined using the obtained elapsed time.

  In the above embodiment, the timing determination processing unit 52 is described as determining the start point and the end point for extracting data based on the spectrum generated by the data acquisition processing unit 51. However, the timing determination processing unit 52 may determine the start point and the end point which extract data based on the interferogram output from the infrared detector 14 of the spectrophotometer 6.

  In the above embodiment, in the sample identification apparatus 1 in the simulated sample mode, one simulated sample M is conveyed, but a plurality of simulated samples M are conveyed and the data acquisition processing unit 51 is optimal. Spectral data may be selected.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the start point and the end point of data extraction are described as being determined by the timing determination processing unit 52, but may be determined manually by the operator operating the operation unit.

  Further, although the transport path 2 is described as a belt conveyor in the above embodiment, the transport path 2 may be any mechanism for transporting the sample S. For example, the transport path 2 may have a circular table shape in a plan view, and may be rotationally moved, or may be configured to include a movable stage.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the simulated sample M is described as being configured by black felt or black suede, but the simulated sample M is configured by a material having a reflectance of infrared light different from that of the transport path 2 It may be made of felt or suede of other colors. Furthermore, the simulated sample M may be a paint on the surface of the plastic sample or may be made of wood. Furthermore, the shape of the simulated sample M may be larger than the size of the measurement area B, and may be circular in plan view or rectangular in plan view.

  In the above embodiment, the belt of the conveyance path 2 is made of SUS, and the simulated sample M is formed of a material with little reflection of infrared light. However, the belt of the conveyance path 2 is reflected of infrared light The simulated sample M may be made of a material having a higher reflectance than the belt of the transport path 2 (for example, polyurethane or polyester).

  In the above embodiment, the passage sensor 5 indicates that the conveyed product conveyed on the conveyance passage 2 has passed the passage area A based on the reflected light of the laser beam emitted toward the conveyance passage 2. Although the detection has been described, the configuration of the passage sensor 5 is not limited to this. For example, the passage sensor 5 includes an emission unit that emits light and a light reception unit that receives light from the emission unit, and the transported object passes through the passage area A based on the fact that the light traveling from the emission unit to the light reception unit is blocked. It may be configured to detect passing.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 sample identification apparatus 2 conveyance path 5 passage sensor 6 spectrophotometer 41 setting time 50 control part 51 data acquisition process part 52 timing determination process part 53 sample identification process part

Claims (6)

The resin piece as an actual sample is transported at a constant speed on the transport path, and infrared light is irradiated to the measurement area provided on the transport path, whereby the actual sample can be obtained based on the reflected light from the measurement area. A sample identification method for identifying a type, comprising
A first transport step of transporting a simulated sample having a reflectance different from that of the transport path on the transport path;
A first detection step of detecting, by a passage sensor, a simulated sample passing through a passage region provided upstream of the measurement region in the transport direction;
A first data acquisition step of acquiring an interferogram or a spectrum as first data by receiving reflected light from the measurement area when the simulated sample passes the measurement area with a spectrophotometer;
A second transport step of transporting the actual sample on the transport path;
A second detection step of detecting the actual sample passing through the passage area by the passage sensor;
A second data acquisition step of acquiring an interferogram or spectrum as second data by receiving the reflected light from the measurement area when the actual sample passes through the measurement area with the spectrophotometer;
Based on the detection signal from the passage sensor in the first detection step, the detection signal from the passage sensor in the second detection step, and the reflected light from the actual sample in the second data based on the first data A timing determination step of determining the start and end points of the corresponding data;
A sample identification step of identifying the type of actual sample based on the data from the start point to the end point.   In the timing determination step, based on the detection signal from the passage sensor in the first detection step and the first data, a timing preset as the start point for the detection timing in the second detection step is shifted. The sample identification method according to claim 1, wherein a start point is determined by being performed, and a timing after a predetermined time from the start point is determined as the end point.   The timing determination step is preset as the start point and the end point with respect to the detection timing in the second detection step based on the detection signal from the passage sensor in the first detection step and the first data. The sample identification method according to claim 1, wherein the start point and the end point are determined by shifting the respective timings. The resin piece as an actual sample is transported at a constant speed on the transport path, and infrared light is irradiated to the measurement area provided on the transport path, whereby the actual sample can be obtained based on the reflected light from the measurement area. A sample identification device that identifies the type,
A passage sensor that detects a conveyed object passing through a passage area provided upstream of the measurement area in the conveyance direction;
A spectrophotometer for receiving light reflected from the measurement area when a transported object passes the measurement area;
A first data acquisition processing unit that acquires an interferogram or a spectrum as first data based on output data from the spectrophotometer when a simulated sample having a reflectance different from that of the transport path passes through the measurement area. When,
A second data acquisition processing unit that acquires an interferogram or spectrum as second data based on output data from the spectrophotometer when an actual sample passes through the measurement area;
The detection signal from the passage sensor when the simulated sample passes through the passage region, the detection signal from the passage sensor when the actual sample passes through the passage region, and the first data. A timing determination processing unit that determines the start point and the end point of the data corresponding to the reflected light from the actual sample in the two data;
And a sample identification processing unit that identifies the type of an actual sample based on data from the start point to the end point.   The timing determination processing unit is configured to detect the passage when the actual sample passes through the passage region based on a detection signal from the passage sensor when the simulated sample passes the passage region, and the first data. The start point is determined by shifting the timing set in advance as the start point with respect to the detection timing according to the second aspect, and the timing after a predetermined time from the start point is determined as the end point. Sample identification device. The timing determination processing unit is configured to detect the passage when the actual sample passes through the passage region based on a detection signal from the passage sensor when the simulated sample passes the passage region, and the first data. 5. The sample identification apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the start point and the end point are determined by respectively shifting the start point and the timing set in advance as the end point with respect to the detection timing according to.

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