WO2022137827A1

WO2022137827A1 - Granule inspection device, raising/lowering equipment for conveying granules, and scraper for raising/lowering equipment

Info

Publication number: WO2022137827A1
Application number: PCT/JP2021/040702
Authority: WO
Inventors: 井上浩典; 今村昌平; 前田剛志; 黒水泰守
Original assignee: 株式会社クボタ
Priority date: 2020-12-24
Filing date: 2021-11-05
Publication date: 2022-06-30

Abstract

This granule inspection device comprises: a plurality of inspection units 4 that inspect granules and detect inferior products; and a changing unit 7h that, in order to reduce the difference between the sorting sensitivity of a reference unit 4L that is one of the plurality of inspection units 4 and the sorting sensitivity of a unit 4 being adjusted that is among the remaining inspection units 4, the sorting sensitivity being the number of inferior products detected per unit time, changes operation parameters of the unit 4R being adjusted.

Description

Granular inspection equipment, elevators for transporting granules, and scrapers for elevators

The present invention relates to a granular material inspection device, an elevator for transporting granular materials, and a scraper for the elevator.

[Background Technique 1]
Patent Document 1 describes a granular material sorting apparatus. In this device, the transfer means (vibration feeder, shooter, etc.) passes the rice grains in a single layer state and spreads in a plurality of rows in the horizontal direction through the measurement target location. Light from the measurement target location is incident on a light receiving device provided with a plurality of unit light receiving units (pixels). Based on the output of each unit light receiving unit, it is determined whether or not the rice grain is defective. The rice grains determined to be defective are separated from other rice grains by an air blowing device at a separation point downstream of the measurement target point.

The granular material sorting device of Patent Document 1 includes a feeding transport device, a transport means, a light receiving device, and an air blowing device one by one. The rice grains are supplied from the supply transportation device to the transfer means via the storage hopper.

[Background Technique 2]
The present invention relates to an elevator for transporting granules such as brown rice, paddy, and rice grains by a bucket, and a scraper used for the elevator.

Conventionally, there is an elevator for transporting granules of this kind as shown in Patent Document 2.
The elevator for transporting granules of Patent Document 2 includes a belt entwined between a pair of pulleys, and a plurality of buckets attached to the belt at appropriate intervals by a connecting tool on the back surface thereof. Granules are transported by the bucket.

The elevator for transporting granules of Patent Document 2 includes a scraper bucket in which a scraper for scooping up the granules staying in the main body case is attached to a part of the buckets among the plurality of buckets. The scraper bucket collects the granules collected at the bottom of the main body case by scooping them up with a scraper.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-250193 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-124688

[Problem 1]
The first problem corresponding to [Background Technique 1] is as follows.

In order to increase the processing capacity (the amount of granules that can be processed per unit time), it is conceivable to equip the granule inspection device with a plurality of inspection units that inspect the granules and detect defective products. In this case, the granules charged into the granule inspection device are distributed to a plurality of inspection units. Then, each inspection unit inspects the distributed granules. Since the defect rate (ratio of defective products contained) of the granules inspected by each inspection unit is the same in principle, the sorting sensitivity when the inspection unit is operated (the number of defective products detected per unit time). Is preferably the same among multiple inspection units.

However, the selection sensitivity of each inspection unit may differ due to individual differences in the inspection units (for example, individual differences in the sensitivity of the light receiving device, individual differences in the brightness of the illumination, individual differences in the vibration intensity of the vibration feeder, etc.). There is. In that case, although the inspection population (a group of granules input to the granule inspection device) is the same, the number of granules judged to be defective by one inspection unit is different from the number of granules. The situation is different from the number of granules judged to be defective by the inspection unit. In this case, either the inspection unit detects the non-defective product as a defective product (sorting sensitivity is unreasonably high), or the defective product is not detected and is treated as a non-defective product (sorting sensitivity is unreasonably low). Is it? In any case, it cannot be said that appropriate inspection performance can be exhibited as a granular material inspection apparatus.

Such a problem cannot occur in a device provided with a feeding / transporting device, a transporting means, a light receiving device, and an air blowing device, such as the granular material sorting device of Patent Document 1.

An object of the present invention is to provide a means for realizing appropriate inspection performance in a granular inspection apparatus provided with a plurality of inspection units.

[Problem 2]
The second problem corresponding to [Background Technique 1] is as follows.

The light from the measurement target point enters the light receiving device via the slit, mirror, lens device, etc. If the device receives an impact during transportation, installation, or operation, the measurement target location will move from an appropriate position. For example, if the measurement target location shifts in the width direction, the correspondence between the position of the granules in the width direction and the output of the light receiving device becomes abnormal, and defective products cannot be properly separated. If the measurement target location shifts in the transfer direction of the granules, the operation timing of the air blowing device becomes inappropriate, and defective products cannot be properly separated. If the measurement target location shifts in the traveling direction of the light, a so-called out-of-focus state occurs, the contrast in the output of the light receiving device decreases, and a defective product cannot be properly determined. That is, when an abnormality occurs at the measurement target location, the inspection performance of the granular material sorting device deteriorates.

An object of the present invention is to provide a method capable of determining the presence or absence of an abnormality in the position of a detection region in a granular material inspection apparatus and suppressing inspection in a state where inspection performance is deteriorated.

[Problem 3]
The third problem corresponding to [Background Technique 1] is as follows.

In order to make a judgment for each of the rice grains spread in multiple rows, it is necessary that the position (passage path) of the rice grains at the measurement target location and the unit light receiving unit (pixel) in the light receiving device appropriately correspond. Therefore, it is conceivable to divide the output from the light receiving device into a plurality of channels, associate the paths of a plurality of rows of rice grains with each channel, and judge the quality of each channel. If this output division (channel distribution) is inappropriate, the rice grains determined to be defective may not be separated, or the rice grains that are not defective may be separated, and the inspection performance of the granular material inspection device deteriorates. It will be in the state of.

An object of the present invention is to provide a method capable of determining a state in which channel distribution is inappropriate in a granular material inspection device and suppressing inspection in a state where inspection performance is deteriorated.

[Issue 4]
The fourth problem corresponding to [Background Technique 1] is as follows.

In order to increase the processing capacity (the amount of granules that can be processed per unit time), it is conceivable to equip the granule inspection device with a plurality of inspection units that inspect the granules and detect defective products. In this case, the granules charged into the granule inspection device are distributed to a plurality of inspection units. Then, each inspection unit inspects the distributed granules.

It is desirable that the amount of granules supplied to the inspection unit is even among the plurality of inspection units. In the case of unevenness, the inspection unit with a small supply amount has a margin in processing capacity, and the processing capacity of the entire device is reduced.

Even if the device is designed so that the supply amount of granules to the inspection unit is even, for example, if the device is installed at an angle, the supply amount may be uneven.

An object of the present invention is to provide a means for suppressing a decrease in the processing capacity of the entire apparatus in a granular inspection apparatus including a plurality of inspection units.

[Problem 5]
Problem No. 5 corresponding to [Background Technique 1] is as follows.

In the granular material sorting device of Patent Document 1, the granular material is supplied from the feeding transport device to the transfer means via the storage hopper. The amount of supply from the delivery transport device for supply and the amount of delivery from the transfer means may fluctuate. Then, the amount of granules stored in the storage hopper increases, and the granules may flow back to the feeding / transporting device for supply. In order to avoid this situation, it is conceivable to provide an overflow discharge port in which the granules can flow out in the storage hopper.

However, it is not preferable that the granules charged into the storage hopper from the supply transport device directly flow into the overflow outlet. This is because the granules supplied to the transfer means may be insufficient and the processing capacity of the granule sorting apparatus may be reduced. Further, when the granules flow back to the feeding / transporting apparatus for supply and flow out from the storage hopper, the processing capacity of the granule sorting apparatus may be similarly reduced.

An object of the present invention is to provide a means capable of suppressing a decrease in processing capacity in a granular material inspection apparatus.

[Problem 6]
The issues corresponding to [Background Technique 2] are as follows.

However, in the elevator for transporting granules of Patent Document 2, when the scraper bucket lifts a large amount of granules accumulated in the lower part of the main body case at the start of operation of the apparatus, a large load is applied to the scraper bucket itself. Along with this, a stronger load than during steady operation is generated on the motor (motor that drives the pulley to rotate) that moves the scraper bucket up and down. In particular, when the scraper bucket starts the ascending operation from a position near the bottom of the main body case where a large amount of granules are accumulated, the load on the motor becomes the largest. Therefore, it is necessary to mount the motor having a capacity larger than the capacity required for steady operation of the device on the elevator.
Further, when a large load is applied to the scraper bucket itself, the belt holding the scraper bucket tends to slip with respect to the pulley, and the belt is severely consumed.

The present invention solves the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an elevator for transporting granules and a scraper for the elevator, which can reduce the load of the device drive source at the start of operation of the device.

[Means 1]
The means corresponding to [Problem 1] are as follows.

As a means for solving the above-mentioned problems, the granular material inspection apparatus of the present invention comprises a plurality of inspection units for inspecting granular materials to detect defective products, and a reference unit which is one of the plurality of the inspection units. The operating parameters of the adjusted unit are changed so that the difference between the sorting sensitivity, which is the number of defective products detected per unit time, and the sorting sensitivity of the adjusted unit, which is the remaining inspection unit, becomes small. It is characterized by having a change part.

According to this configuration, the operating parameters of the adjusted unit are changed so that the difference between the sorting sensitivity in the reference unit and the sorting sensitivity in the adjusted unit becomes small, so that the difference in the sorting sensitivity of a plurality of inspection units becomes small. , Appropriate inspection performance can be realized in a granular inspection apparatus provided with a plurality of inspection units.

In the present invention, the inspection unit detects a defective product of the granules based on a sending device that sends the granules to the inspection area, a sensor that detects light from the inspection area, and the output of the sensor. The sending device includes a detection device, the sending device controls the sending amount of the granules based on the set sending amount as an operation parameter of the adjusted unit, and the changing unit controls the sorting in the adjusted unit. When the sensitivity is smaller than the sorting sensitivity in the reference unit, it is preferable to increase the set delivery amount in the adjusted unit.

According to this configuration, when the sorting sensitivity in the adjusted unit is smaller than the sorting sensitivity in the reference unit, the set transmission amount in the adjusted unit increases. As a result, the sorting sensitivity of the unit to be adjusted is increased, so that the difference in the sorting sensitivity of the plurality of inspection units is reduced, and appropriate inspection performance can be realized in the granular inspection apparatus provided with the plurality of inspection units.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the modified portion reduces the set transmission amount in the adjusted unit when the sorting sensitivity in the adjusted unit is larger than the sorting sensitivity in the reference unit.

According to this configuration, when the sorting sensitivity in the adjusted unit is larger than the sorting sensitivity in the reference unit, the set transmission amount in the adjusted unit is reduced. As a result, the sorting sensitivity of the unit to be adjusted is reduced, so that the difference in the sorting sensitivity of the plurality of inspection units is reduced, and appropriate inspection performance can be realized in the granular inspection apparatus provided with the plurality of inspection units.

In the present invention, the inspection unit detects a defective product of the granules based on a sending device that sends the granules to the inspection area, a sensor that detects light from the inspection area, and the output of the sensor. The detection device includes a detection device, and the detection device regards the granule as a defective product when the light intensity detected by the sensor is lower than the selection threshold value based on the selection threshold value as an operation parameter of the adjusted unit. It is preferable that the changing unit raises the sorting threshold value in the adjusted unit when the sorting sensitivity in the adjusted unit is smaller than the sorting sensitivity in the reference unit.

According to this configuration, when the sorting sensitivity in the adjusted unit is smaller than the sorting sensitivity in the reference unit, the sorting threshold value in the adjusted unit becomes high. As a result, the sorting sensitivity of the unit to be adjusted is increased, so that the difference in the sorting sensitivity of the plurality of inspection units is reduced, and appropriate inspection performance can be realized in the granular inspection apparatus provided with the plurality of inspection units.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the modified portion lowers the sorting threshold value in the adjusted unit when the sorting sensitivity in the adjusted unit is larger than the sorting sensitivity in the reference unit.

According to this configuration, when the sorting sensitivity in the adjusted unit is larger than the sorting sensitivity in the reference unit, the sorting threshold value in the adjusted unit becomes low. As a result, the sorting sensitivity of the unit to be adjusted is reduced, so that the difference in the sorting sensitivity of the plurality of inspection units is reduced, and appropriate inspection performance can be realized in the granular inspection apparatus provided with the plurality of inspection units.

In the present invention, the inspection unit detects a defective product of the granules based on a sending device that sends the granules to the inspection area, a sensor that detects light from the inspection area, and the output of the sensor. The change unit includes a detection device for illuminating the inspection area and a lighting device for illuminating the inspection area, and the change unit is based on the difference between the selection sensitivity of the reference unit and the selection sensitivity of the adjusted unit. It is preferable to change the emission intensity of the lighting device as an operation parameter of the above.

According to this configuration, the emission intensity of the lighting device as an operating parameter of the adjusted unit is changed based on the difference between the selection sensitivity of the reference unit and the selection sensitivity of the adjusted unit, so that the emission intensity of the adjusted unit is increased. It will be appropriate. Therefore, the difference in the sorting sensitivity of the plurality of inspection units is reduced, and appropriate inspection performance can be realized in the granular inspection apparatus including the plurality of inspection units.

In the present invention, the inspection unit detects a defective product of the granules based on a sending device that sends the granules to the inspection area, a sensor that detects light from the inspection area, and the output of the sensor. The change unit determines the sensitivity of the sensor as an operating parameter of the adjusted unit based on the difference between the sorting sensitivity of the reference unit and the sorting sensitivity of the adjusted unit. It is preferable to change it.

According to this configuration, the sensitivity of the sensor as an operating parameter of the adjusted unit is changed based on the difference between the sorting sensitivity of the reference unit and the sorting sensitivity of the adjusted unit, so that the sensitivity of the sensor in the adjusted unit is appropriate. It will be something like that. Therefore, the difference in the sorting sensitivity of the plurality of inspection units is reduced, and appropriate inspection performance can be realized in the granular inspection apparatus including the plurality of inspection units.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the change unit preferentially changes the operation parameter of the transmission device over the operation parameter of the detection device.

According to this configuration, since the operation parameter of the transmission device is changed with priority over the operation parameter of the detection device, the difference in the sorting sensitivity of a plurality of inspection units tends to be small. Therefore, it becomes easy to realize appropriate inspection performance in a granular inspection apparatus provided with a plurality of inspection units.

In the present invention, the changing unit calculates the time average of the sorting sensitivity in a predetermined period for each of the reference unit and the adjusted unit, and sets the operating parameters of the adjusted unit so that the difference between them becomes small. It is preferable to change it.

According to this configuration, the time average of the sorting sensitivity in a predetermined period is calculated for each of the reference unit and the adjusted unit, and the operating parameters of the adjusted unit are changed so that the difference between them becomes small. As a result, adverse effects due to sudden or accidental changes in sorting sensitivity are suppressed, and it becomes easy to realize appropriate inspection performance in a granular inspection apparatus provided with a plurality of inspection units.

[Means 2]
The means corresponding to [Problem 2] are as follows.

As a means for solving the above-mentioned problems, the granular material inspection device of the present invention has a detection device that detects light from a detection region, a transmission device that sends out particles so as to pass through the detection region, and a graphic on the surface. An abnormality in the position of the detection area is drawn based on the member arranged in the detection area so that the figure appears in the output of the detection device and the portion corresponding to the figure in the output of the detection device. It is characterized by including a position abnormality determination unit for determining the presence / absence.

According to this configuration, since the presence or absence of abnormality in the detection area is determined by the figure drawn on the member, it is possible to suppress the inspection in the state where the inspection performance is deteriorated. For example, it is possible to notify the operator of the abnormality, stop the inspection, perform automatic adjustment, and take other measures in response to the occurrence of the abnormality. As a result, it is possible to suppress the continuation of the inspection when the position of the detection region is abnormal, and it is possible to suppress the inspection when the inspection performance is deteriorated.

In the present invention, a storage unit for storing a normal output which is an output of the detection device when the detection area is normal is provided, and the position abnormality determination unit compares the output of the detection device with the normal output. It is preferable to determine whether or not there is an abnormality in the position of the detection region.

According to this configuration, the presence or absence of an abnormality in the position of the detection area is determined by comparison with the normal output, so that the determination is made more appropriately. As a result, it is possible to appropriately suppress the continuation of the inspection when the position of the detection region is abnormal, and suppress the inspection when the inspection performance is deteriorated.

In the present invention, the figure has a first portion and a second portion, and the first portion is the first portion in the output of the detection device when the detection region is displaced along a specific direction. The corresponding portion changes, and the second portion is a form in which the portion corresponding to the second portion in the output of the detection device does not change when the detection region shifts along the specific direction. It is preferable that the position abnormality determination unit determines the presence or absence of an abnormality in the position of the detection region based on the portion corresponding to the first portion and the portion corresponding to the second portion in the output of the detection device.

According to this configuration, it is possible to detect the deviation of the detection area along a specific direction by using the figure having the first part and the second part for the judgment, and it is possible to judge whether or not there is an abnormality in the position of the detection area. Can be performed more reliably. Therefore, it is possible to surely suppress the continuation of the inspection in the state where the position of the detection region is abnormal, and it is possible to surely suppress the inspection in the state where the inspection performance is deteriorated.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the first part is a part of the triangle included in the figure and the second part is a part of the rectangle included in the figure.

According to this configuration, the figure drawn on the member includes the first part and the second part due to the simple shape of a triangle and a quadrangle. Therefore, it is preferable that the process of determining the presence or absence of an abnormality in the position of the detection region is simple.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the notification device is provided and the position abnormality determination unit operates the notification device when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the position of the detection region.

According to this configuration, the notification device is activated when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the position of the detection area, so that the operator who received the notification can deal with the abnormality (stop the device, change the setting, etc.). It will be possible. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the inspection in a state where the inspection performance is deteriorated.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the notification device is provided, the position abnormality determination unit calculates the position fluctuation amount of the detection region, and the notification device is operated when the position fluctuation amount exceeds the notification threshold value.

According to this configuration, since the notification device is activated when the position fluctuation amount exceeds the notification threshold value, the operator who receives the notification can deal with the abnormality (stop the device, change the setting, etc.). Therefore, it is possible to suppress the inspection in a state where the inspection performance is deteriorated. Further, since the notification device does not operate in the case of a slight position change, the operation of the granular body inspection device can be simplified.

In the present invention, a quality determination unit for determining the quality of the granules based on the output of the detection device is provided, the delivery device is configured to send out a plurality of the granules in parallel, and the detection device is the same. The position abnormality determination unit includes a plurality of pixels arranged in a direction corresponding to the parallel direction of the granules in the detection region, and the position abnormality determination unit is based on the portion corresponding to the figure in the output of the detection device. The parallel direction fluctuation amount, which is the fluctuation amount of the position of the detection region, is calculated, and the pass / fail determination unit distributes the plurality of the pixels so as to correspond to the plurality of parallel granules, and sets a plurality of channels. It is preferable to determine the quality of the granules for each of the channels and change the distribution of the pixels to the channels according to the amount of fluctuation in the parallel direction.

According to this configuration, the amount of fluctuation in the parallel direction is calculated and the distribution of the pixels to the channels is automatically changed, so that the inspection in the state where the inspection performance is deteriorated is automatically performed without bothering the operator. Can be suppressed.

In the present invention, the quality determination unit that determines the quality of the granular material based on the output of the detection device, the exclusion device that eliminates the granular material determined by the quality determination unit to be non-defective, and the exclusion device. The exclusion control unit for controlling the operation timing is provided, and the position abnormality determination unit is a detection region for the transmission direction of the granules by the transmission device based on the portion corresponding to the figure in the output of the detection device. It is preferable that the exclusion control unit changes the operation timing of the exclusion device based on the transmission direction variation amount by calculating the transmission direction variation amount which is the position variation amount.

According to this configuration, the amount of fluctuation in the transmission direction is calculated and the operation timing of the exclusion device is automatically changed, so that the inspection in a state where the inspection performance is deteriorated is automatically performed without bothering the operator. It can be suppressed.

In the present invention, the detection device includes a sensor that detects incident light and a lens device that focuses the light incident on the sensor, and the position abnormality determination unit is the graphic figure in the output of the detection device. It is preferable to adjust the focus of the lens device based on the portion corresponding to.

According to this configuration, since the focus of the lens device is automatically changed, it is possible to automatically suppress the inspection in a state where the inspection performance is deteriorated without bothering the operator.

[Means 3]
The means corresponding to [Problem 3] are as follows.

As a means for solving the above-mentioned problems, the granular body inspection device of the present invention has a sending device that sends out a plurality of granules to the inspection area in parallel, a sensor that detects light from the inspection area, and an adjacent sensor in the output. It is characterized by comprising an abnormality determination unit for determining that an abnormality has occurred when it is detected that one of the granules straddles the channel.

When channel distribution is appropriate, one granule corresponds to one channel, so that one granule straddles adjacent channels cannot occur. According to this configuration, it is determined that an abnormality has occurred when it is detected that one granule straddles an adjacent channel, so that the channel distribution is inappropriate in the granule inspection device. It is possible to make a judgment and suppress the inspection in a state where the inspection performance is deteriorated. For example, it is possible to notify the operator of the abnormality, stop the inspection, correct the channel distribution, and take other measures in response to the occurrence of the abnormality. As a result, it is possible to suppress the continuation of the inspection in a state where the channel distribution is inappropriate, and it is possible to suppress the inspection in a state where the inspection performance is deteriorated.

In the present invention, a detection unit for detecting a decrease in light intensity due to the granules is provided for each of the plurality of channels in the output of the sensor, and the abnormality determination unit simultaneously emits light in the channel adjacent to the detection unit. It is preferable to determine that an abnormality has occurred when a decrease in the strength of the light is detected.

Since the granules are randomly sent from the sending device, it is unlikely that a decrease in light intensity due to the granules will be detected at the same time in the adjacent channels if the channel distribution is appropriate. On the other hand, if the channel distribution is improper, the decrease in light intensity due to one granule always appears simultaneously in both adjacent channels. According to this configuration, the decrease in light intensity due to the granules is detected for each channel, and it is determined that an abnormality has occurred when the decrease in light intensity is detected simultaneously in the adjacent channels, so that the channel distribution is unsuccessful. The appropriate state can be determined appropriately.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the abnormality determination unit determines that an abnormality has occurred when the detection unit detects a decrease in light intensity simultaneously and over time in the adjacent channel.

Even if a decrease in light intensity is detected at the same time in adjacent channels due to accidental electrical noise, etc., it is unlikely that the state will continue over time. According to this configuration, it is determined that an abnormality has occurred when a decrease in light intensity is detected simultaneously and over time in adjacent channels, so accidental erroneous determination due to electrical noise or the like is suppressed and channel distribution is performed. Can reliably determine the inappropriate state.

In the present invention, the abnormality determination unit determines that an abnormality has occurred when a state in which the detection unit simultaneously detects a decrease in light intensity in the adjacent channels occurs in a plurality of sets of the adjacent channels. It is preferable to judge.

Even if the channel distribution is appropriate, if the movement path of the granules passing through the inspection area is deviated, a decrease in light intensity may be detected at the same time in the adjacent channel. However, it is unlikely that such an accidental situation will occur at multiple locations at the same time. If a situation in which a decrease in light intensity is detected simultaneously in adjacent channels occurs in a plurality of sets of adjacent channels, it is highly possible that the channel distribution is inappropriate. According to this configuration, it is possible to suppress erroneous determination and reliably determine a state in which channel distribution is inappropriate.

In the present invention, the sensor includes a detection unit that detects a decrease in light intensity due to the granules at the output of the sensor, and the sensors are arranged along a direction corresponding to a parallel direction of the granules in the inspection region. It is preferable that the abnormality determination unit has pixels and determines that an abnormality has occurred when the decrease in light intensity due to the granules is simultaneously detected in the continuous pixels belonging to the adjacent channel.

Since the granules are randomly sent from the sending device, if the channel distribution is appropriate, it is unlikely that the decrease in light intensity due to the granules will be detected simultaneously in consecutive pixels belonging to adjacent channels. On the other hand, when the channel distribution is inappropriate, the decrease in light intensity due to one granule always appears at the same time in the continuous pixels belonging to the adjacent channels. According to this configuration, it is determined that an abnormality has occurred when the decrease in light intensity due to the granules is simultaneously detected in consecutive pixels belonging to adjacent channels. It can be determined.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the abnormality determination unit determines that an abnormality has occurred when the decrease in light intensity due to the granules is simultaneously and temporally detected in the continuous pixels belonging to the adjacent channel. Is.

Even if a decrease in light intensity due to granules is detected in consecutive pixels belonging to adjacent channels due to accidental electrical noise or the like, it is unlikely that the state will continue over time. According to this configuration, when the decrease in light intensity due to the granules is detected simultaneously and over time in consecutive pixels belonging to adjacent channels, it is determined that an abnormality has occurred, so it is accidental due to electrical noise or the like. It is possible to suppress an erroneous determination and reliably determine a state in which channel distribution is inappropriate.

In the present invention, the sensor includes a detection unit that detects a decrease in light intensity due to the granules at the output of the sensor, and the sensors are arranged along a direction corresponding to a parallel direction of the granules in the inspection region. The abnormality determination unit has pixels, and the abnormality determination unit identifies detection pixels that are pixels in which a decrease in light intensity due to the granules is detected, and the detection pixels of the detection pixels belonging to different channels, whichever is smaller. It is preferable to divide the number by the total number of the detected pixels to calculate the ratio, and when the ratio exceeds a predetermined threshold, it is determined that an abnormality has occurred.

According to this configuration, the degree of inappropriate channel distribution is calculated numerically as a "ratio", and it is determined that an abnormality has occurred based on the ratio. It can be judged appropriately.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the notification device is provided and the abnormality determination unit operates the notification device when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred.

According to this configuration, since the notification device is activated when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred, the operator who received the notification can deal with the abnormality (stop the device or change the setting). Therefore, it is possible to suppress the inspection in a state where the inspection performance is deteriorated.

In the present invention, the first sensor as the sensor that detects the light emitted from the inspection area in the first direction and the second sensor emitted from the inspection area in the direction opposite to the first direction. When the second sensor as the sensor that detects light and the abnormality determination unit determine that an abnormality has occurred in the first sensor and the second sensor at approximately the same time, it is determined that an abnormality has occurred. It is preferable to include an abnormality determination unit between facing sensors.

If an abnormality occurs in the first sensor and the second sensor at about the same time, there is a possibility that a serious problem has occurred, such as a misalignment of the frame supporting both sensors or a malfunction of the transmission device. According to this configuration, since the occurrence of such a serious problem is determined by the facing sensor abnormality determination unit, it is possible to appropriately suppress the inspection in a state where the inspection performance is deteriorated.

In the present invention, the upper sensor as the sensor that detects the light from the upper part in the inspection area, the lower sensor as the sensor that detects the light from the lower part in the inspection area, and the abnormality determination unit are said. It is detected that one of the granules straddles the abnormal channel set which is an adjacent channel in the output of the upper sensor, and the abnormality determination unit corresponds to the abnormal channel set in the output of the lower sensor. It is preferable to include an abnormality determination unit between the upper and lower sensors that determines that an abnormality has occurred when it is detected that one of the granules straddles the channel.

If an abnormality occurs in the upper sensor and the lower sensor at about the same time, there is a possibility that a serious problem has occurred, such as a misalignment of the frame supporting both sensors or a malfunction of the transmission device. According to this configuration, since the occurrence of such a serious problem is determined by the abnormality determination unit between the upper and lower sensors, it is possible to appropriately suppress the inspection in a state where the inspection performance is deteriorated.

[Means 4]
The means corresponding to [Problem 4] are as follows.

As a means for solving the above-mentioned problems, the granule inspection apparatus of the present invention includes a plurality of inspection units for inspecting granules to detect defective products, and a plurality of inspection units for storing the supplied granules. It is characterized by comprising a storage device for supplying the granules to the storage device and an adjusting mechanism provided in the storage device and adjusting the supply amount of the granules to a plurality of the inspection units.

According to this configuration, since the amount of granules supplied to a plurality of inspection units can be adjusted by the adjusting mechanism, the amount of granules supplied to the inspection units can be equalized, and the processing capacity of the entire apparatus is reduced. Can be suppressed.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the adjusting mechanism includes a guide member capable of changing the position in a direction intersecting the movement path of the granules.

According to this configuration, since the position of the guide member can be changed, the supply amount of the granular material to a plurality of inspection units can be easily adjusted. Moreover, the adjustment mechanism can be realized by a simple configuration.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the guide member can slide in the left-right direction.

According to this configuration, the position of the guide member can be easily changed. In addition, the configuration of the adjustment mechanism can be further simplified.

In the present invention, a bucket conveyor is provided for transporting the granules upward and charging the granules into the storage device, and the guide member is on the moving path of the granules loaded from the bucket conveyor. It is preferable that it is arranged in.

According to this configuration, since the guide member is arranged on the moving path of the granular body, the moving direction of the granular body can be changed by changing the position of the guide member, and the granular body can be supplied to a plurality of inspection units. The amount can be adjusted effectively.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the guide member is located below the uppermost end of the bucket conveyor.

According to this configuration, the moving direction of the granules charged from the bucket conveyor can be reliably changed, and the supply amount of the granules to a plurality of inspection units can be reliably adjusted.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the storage device includes a branch member that branches its internal space corresponding to a plurality of the inspection units, and the guide member is located above the branch member.

According to this configuration, since the guide member is above the branch member, the moving direction of the granular body can be changed before the granular body reaches the branch member. Therefore, the amount of granules supplied to the plurality of inspection units can be effectively adjusted.

In the present invention, the storage device includes a wall member extending in the vertical direction, an inspection opening formed in the wall member, and a closing member for closing the inspection opening, and the guide member is closed. It is preferable that it is supported by a member.

According to this configuration, the storage device and the adjustment mechanism can be configured as a whole, and space efficiency and maintainability can be improved.

[Means 5]
The means corresponding to [Problem 5] are as follows.

As a means for solving the above-mentioned problems, the granular material inspection apparatus of the present invention has an inspection unit that inspects the granular material and detects a defective product, and stores the charged granular material and puts the granular material into the inspection unit. The storage device is provided with an inlet arranged at the upper part where the granules are input, an outlet arranged at the lower part where the granules flow out to the inspection unit, and an inlet thereof. It is arranged below and above the outlet so that the granules can flow out from the overflow outlet, and between the inlet and the overflow outlet and on the movement path of the granules introduced from the inlet. A cover member is provided, and the granules stored in the storage device below the cover member are configured to be able to flow into the overflow discharge port.

According to this configuration, since the cover member is arranged between the inlet and the overflow outlet and on the movement path of the granules, the granules input from the inlet are suppressed from directly entering the overflow outlet. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in processing capacity. Further, since the granules can flow into the overflow discharge port below the cover member, it is possible to prevent the storage device from becoming full and the granules from flowing out from the inlet. In this respect as well, it is possible to suppress a decrease in processing capacity.

In the present invention, the storage device is provided with a lower constriction-shaped lower constriction portion connected to the outlet, and the overflow outlet is provided on the side wall of the lower constriction portion, and the overflow outlet is provided. It is preferable that the cover member is provided above.

According to this configuration, since the overflow outlet is provided on the side wall of the lower constriction portion, the granules can smoothly flow out from the overflow outlet. Further, since the cover member is provided above the overflow discharge port, it is effectively suppressed that the granules thrown in from the inlet directly enter the overflow discharge port. Therefore, the decrease in processing capacity can be effectively suppressed.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the width of the overflow outlet and the width of the cover member are substantially the same.

According to this configuration, the cover member does not easily hinder the movement of the granules to the outlet while effectively suppressing the granules thrown in from the inlet from directly entering the overflow outlet. Therefore, the decrease in processing capacity can be effectively suppressed.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the upper end of the cover member and the lower end of the inlet are located at substantially the same height.

According to this configuration, since the granules introduced from the inlet can come into contact with the cover member at an early stage, the direct inflow of the granules into the overflow discharge port can be effectively suppressed.
Therefore, the decrease in processing capacity can be effectively suppressed.

In the present invention, it is preferable that the upper surface of the cover member is provided with an inclined surface that is inclined diagonally downward.

According to this configuration, since the granules are unlikely to stay on the inclined surface, it is possible to effectively prevent the granules from staying on the cover member. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which granules stay inside the storage device and are not inspected.

[Means 6]
The means corresponding to [Problem 6] are as follows.

In order to solve the above problems, the elevator for transporting granules of the present invention is bridged between an upper pulley and a lower pulley pivotally supported at the upper and lower ends of the main body case, and between the upper pulley and the lower pulley. An elevator for transporting granules, comprising a belt and a plurality of buckets attached to the belt, and transporting the granules by the buckets, wherein the belt retains the granules in the main body case. A scraper for scooping up is provided, and the scraper has a passable portion through which the granules scooped up by the scraper can pass.

In the above configuration, when the scraper scoops up the granules, the granules scooped up by the scraper pass through the passable portion provided in the scraper.

In the elevator for transporting granules of the present invention, the passable portion is provided in the scraper on the side close to the belt.

In the above configuration, when the scraper scoops up the granules, the granules scooped up by the scraper pass through the side of the scraper near the belt.

In the elevator for transporting granules of the present invention, the scraper has a scraper member for scooping up the granules staying in the main body case, and a holding member for holding the scraper member with respect to the belt. The passable portion is provided on the holding member.

In the above configuration, when the scraper member scoops up the granules, the granules scooped up by the scraper member pass through the passable portion of the holding member.

The elevator for transporting granules of the present invention is configured such that the scraper attaches a scraper member for scooping up the granules staying in the main body case to a part of the buckets among the plurality of buckets. The passable portion is provided in a bucket to which the scraper member is attached.

In the above configuration, when the scraper member scoops up the granules, the granules scooped up by the scraper member pass through the passable portion of the bucket.

The scraper for an elevator of the present invention includes an upper pulley and a lower pulley pivotally supported at the upper and lower ends of a main body case, a belt spanned between the upper pulley and the lower pulley, and a plurality of scrapers attached to the belt. A scraper for an elevator provided on the belt of an elevator for transporting granules by the bucket, and for scooping up the granules staying in the main body case. , The granules to be scooped up have a passable portion through which they can pass.

In the above configuration, when the scraper scoops up the granules, the granules scooped up by the scraper pass through the passable portion of the scraper.

According to the elevator for transporting granules and the scraper for the elevator of the present invention, the granules scooped up by the scraper pass through the passable portion of the scraper at the start of operation of the device, and therefore at the start of operation of the device. The load on the scraper itself is reduced. Therefore, the load on the device drive source at the start of operation of the device can be reduced, and the capacity of the device drive source to be used can be reduced. Further, by reducing the load applied to the scraper itself at the start of operation of the apparatus, the belt holding the scraper is less likely to slip with respect to the pulley, and the wear of the belt can be suppressed.

It is a figure which shows the 1st Embodiment (hereinafter the same until FIG. 11), and is the right side view of the granular body inspection apparatus. It is a front view of the granular body inspection apparatus. It is a right side view which shows the main part of an inspection unit. It is a functional block diagram which shows the control system of a granular material inspection apparatus. It is a figure which shows the outline of the optical inspection performed by the granular body inspection apparatus. It is a figure which shows an example of the output of a sensor. It is a figure which shows an example of the output of a sensor when an abnormality of the position of a detection area occurs. It is a figure which shows an example of the output of a sensor when an abnormality of the position of a detection area occurs. It is a figure which shows an example of the output of a sensor when an abnormality of the position of a detection area occurs. It is a figure which shows an example of the output of a sensor when an abnormality of the position of a detection area occurs. It is a flowchart of the detection area abnormality correspondence processing. It is a figure which shows the 2nd Embodiment (hereinafter the same until FIG. 14), and is the figure which shows the outline of the optical inspection performed by the granular body inspection apparatus. It is a flowchart of operation parameter change processing. It is a flowchart of a sensitivity setting process. It is a figure which shows the 3rd Embodiment (hereinafter the same until FIG. 18), and is the figure which shows the state which the channel distribution is normal. It is a figure which shows the state which the channel distribution is abnormal. It is a figure which shows the state which the channel distribution is abnormal. It is a flowchart of abnormality detection processing. It is a figure which shows the 4th Embodiment (hereinafter the same until FIG. 23), and is the top view which shows the positional relationship of a storage hopper, a vibration feeder, and a shooter. It is a cross-sectional right side view which shows the 1st transport conveyor and the storage hopper. It is a front view which shows the storage hopper. It is sectional front view which shows the inside of a storage hopper. It is sectional drawing which shows the inside of the storage hopper. It is a figure which shows the 5th Embodiment (hereinafter the same until FIG. 25), and is the right side view of the cross section which shows the cover member which concerns on the modification. It is a cross-sectional right side view which shows the cover member which concerns on the modification. It is a figure which shows the 6th Embodiment (hereinafter the same until FIG. 32), and is the left side view of the sorter which has the elevator for transporting granules which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a rear view of the sorter which has the elevator for transporting the same granular material. It is a side sectional view of the elevator for transporting the same granular material. It is an enlarged side sectional view of the lower part of the elevator for transporting the same granular material. It is an enlarged side sectional view of the lower part of the elevator for transporting the same granular material. It is a perspective view of the scraper bucket provided in the elevator for transporting the same granular material. It is a perspective view of the scraper bucket of another embodiment provided in the elevator for transporting the same granular material, in the case where the notch portion is provided on one side of the scraper. It is a perspective view of the scraper bucket of another embodiment provided in the elevator for transporting the same granular material, in the case where the cutout portion is provided on the other side of the scraper. It is a perspective view of the scraper of another embodiment provided in the elevator for transporting the same granular material.

[First Embodiment]
Hereinafter, embodiments of the granular body inspection apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
The present invention is not limited to the following embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist thereof. In each figure, the direction indicated by the code (FR) is the front side of the device, the direction indicated by the code (BK) is the rear side of the device, the direction indicated by the code (LH) is the left side of the device, and the direction indicated by the code (RH) is the right side of the device. The direction indicated by UP) is the upper side, and the direction indicated by the symbol (DW) is the lower side.

The granular material inspection device is a device that optically inspects whether the injected granular material is a normal product or a defective product, and selects and discharges the normal product and the defective product. In the present embodiment, the granules are grains such as brown rice and white rice. The granules may be resin pellets or the like.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the granular body inspection device includes a charging hopper 1, a first transport conveyor 2 (an example of a bucket conveyor), a storage hopper 3 (an example of a storage device), an inspection unit 4, and a second. It is equipped with a lifting conveyor 5, an operation display device 6, a control device 7 (FIG. 4), and a notification device 8 (FIG. 4).

The charging hopper 1 is provided at the lower part of the rear part of the device and receives the granules to be inspected.

The first transport conveyor 2 is provided at the center of the left and right sides of the rear part of the apparatus, and the granules charged in the charging hopper 1 are conveyed upward and charged into the storage hopper 3.

The storage hopper 3 stores the granules charged from the first transport conveyor 2 and supplies the granules to the inspection unit 4.

The inspection unit 4 inspects the granules supplied from the storage hopper 3, detects defective products, sorts the granules into normal products and defective products, and discharges them. In the present embodiment, the granular body inspection device includes a left inspection unit 4L and a right inspection unit 4R.

The second transport conveyor 5 is provided on the left side portion of the rear part of the device, and transports the granules discharged as normal products from the inspection unit 4 upward and discharges them to the outside of the device.

The operation display device 6 is provided in the center of the front part of the device. The operation display device 6 receives the human operation from the operator and transmits it to the control device 7. Further, the operation display device 6 is controlled by the control device 7 to display various screens. In the present embodiment, the operation display device 6 is a liquid crystal display with a touch panel. The operation display device 6 may be a device in which a push button and a liquid crystal display are combined.

The control device 7 controls the overall operation of the granular body inspection device.

The notification device 8 is controlled by the control device 7 to notify the operator of an abnormality of the device or the like. The notification device 8 is, for example, a buzzer, a speaker, a lamp, or an information display device. The operation display device 6 may also serve as the notification device 8.

[Inspection unit]
The outline of the configuration and operation of the inspection unit 4 will be described with reference to FIG. The left inspection unit 4L and the right inspection unit 4R have the same configuration and perform the same operation. Hereinafter, as shown in FIG. 3, the moving direction of the granules is the Z direction, the upstream side of the moving direction of the granules is the Z1 side, the downstream side of the moving direction of the granules is the Z2 side, and the plane orthogonal to the left-right direction of the device. The direction orthogonal to the Z direction is referred to as the Y direction, the front side of the device in the Y direction is referred to as the Y1 side, and the rear side of the device in the Y direction is referred to as the Y2 side.

The granular material to be inspected falls from the shooter 12 to the Z2 side and is sent out to the inspection area IA. The inspection area IA is illuminated by the illuminating device 21. Light from the inspection area IA enters the front camera 22A, the rear camera 22B, and the transmission camera 22C, and is detected by the front sensor 23A, the rear sensor 23B, and the transmission sensor 23C (hereinafter, the front camera 22A, the rear camera 22B, And the transmission camera 22C are collectively referred to as “camera 22”. The front sensor 23A, the rear sensor 23B, and the transmission sensor 23C are collectively referred to as “sensor 23”).

Specifically, the light reflected on the Y1 side of the granular material is incident on the front camera 22A and detected by the front sensor 23A. The light reflected on the Y2 side of the granular material enters the rear camera 22B and is detected by the rear sensor 23B. The light transmitted through the granules from the Y1 side to the Y2 side is incident on the transmission camera 22C and detected by the transmission sensor 23C.

The output of the sensor 23 is transmitted to the control device 7. The control device 7 determines whether the granular body is a normal product or a defective product based on the output of the sensor 23. The control device 7 operates the air blowing device 31 at the timing when the granular material determined to be defective falls to the front of the air blowing device 31. The granules blown with air are pushed toward the Y1 side and fall to the defective product collection unit 41. Other granules fall to the normal product collection unit 42.

[Inspection unit configuration]
The inspection unit 4 includes a transmission device 10, a detection device 20, and an exclusion device 30. As described above, the left inspection unit 4L and the right inspection unit 4R have the same configuration.

The delivery device 10 is a device that sends out a plurality of granules to the inspection area IA in parallel (left-right direction of the device, orthogonal direction on the paper surface in FIG. 3). The delivery device 10 includes a vibration feeder 11 and a shooter 12.

The vibration feeder 11 receives the granules flowing down from the storage hopper 3 by the trough 11a, vibrates the trough 11a, and sends the granules to the shooter 12. The operation of the vibration feeder 11 is controlled by the control device 7.

The shooter 12 is a plate-shaped member. A plurality of linear grooves are formed on the upper surface of the shooter 12 in a state of being arranged in parallel in the left-right direction. The width of the groove is set so that the granules can flow down in a row. The granules that have fallen from the trough 11a of the vibration feeder 11 to the shooter 12 are guided by the grooves of the shooter 12, flow down in parallel on the shooter 12, and are sent out to the inspection region IA.

The detection device 20 is a device that detects light from the inspection area IA, and includes the above-mentioned lighting device 21, a camera 22, a sensor 23, and a mirror 24.

The lighting device 21 includes background members 21A, 121B, 121C, and lighting units 21D, 121E, 121F, 121G.

The background members 21A, 121B, and 121C are members that guide the light from a light emitting device (not shown) to illuminate the inspection area IA. The background members 21A, 121B, 121C function as a background of the granular material in the light reaching the camera 22 from the inspection area IA. The light emitting device that is the light source of the background members 21A, 121B, and 121C is controlled by the control device 7 so that the illumination to the inspection area IA has an appropriate intensity.

The lighting units 21D, 121E, 121F, 121G include an LED package whose emission intensity is controlled by the control device 7, and illuminate the inspection area IA. The lighting units 21D and 121E are arranged on the Y1 side with respect to the inspection area IA, and illuminate the inspection area IA from the Y1 side. The lighting units 21F and 121G are arranged on the Y2 side with respect to the inspection area IA, and illuminate the inspection area IA from the Y2 side.

The front camera 22A includes a front lens device 25A. The front sensor 23A is arranged inside the front camera 22A. The optical axis 26A of the front camera 22A is shown in FIG. The light reflected by the surface of the granular material on the Y1 side and the light emitted from the background member 21A are radiated from the inspection region IA to the Y1 side. The light is reflected by the mirror 24, converged by the front lens device 25A, and irradiates the front sensor 23A. That is, the front sensor 23A of the front camera 22A detects the light reflected by the surface of the granular body on the Y1 side and the light emitted from the background member 21A.

The rear camera 22B includes a rear lens device 25B. The rear sensor 23B is arranged inside the rear camera 22B. The optical axis 26B of the rear camera 22B is shown in FIG. The light reflected by the surface of the granular material on the Y2 side and the light emitted from the background member 21B are radiated from the inspection region IA to the Y2 side. The light is reflected by the mirror 24, converged by the rear lens device 25B, and irradiates the rear sensor 23B. That is, the rear sensor 23B of the rear camera 22B detects the light reflected by the surface of the granular body on the Y2 side and the light emitted from the background member 21B.

The transmissive camera 22C includes a transmissive lens device 25C. The transmission sensor 23C is arranged inside the transmission camera 22C. The optical axis 26C of the transmission camera 22C is shown in FIG. The light transmitted through the granules from the Y1 side to the Y2 side and the light radiated from the background member 21C are radiated from the inspection region IA to the Y2 side. The light is reflected by the mirror 24, converged by the transmission lens device 25C, and irradiates the transmission sensor 23C. That is, the transmission sensor 23C of the transmission camera 22C detects the light transmitted through the granules from the Y1 side to the Y2 side and the light radiated from the background member 21C.

Hereinafter, the front lens device 25A, the rear lens device 25B, and the transmission lens device 25C may be collectively referred to as the "lens device 25".

The front sensor 23A, the rear sensor 23B, and the transmission sensor 23C detect light over time and transmit the output data at predetermined time intervals to the control device 7.

A light-shielding member 27 is arranged in the inspection area IA. The light-shielding member 27 suppresses the light reflected by the granules and the illumination light from the lighting units 21D, 121E, 121F, and 121G from directly incident on the transmission camera 22C.

The exclusion device 30 is a device that eliminates granules determined to be defective. The exclusion device 30 is composed of an air blowing device 31. The air blowing device 31 includes a plurality of injection ports arranged in the left-right direction of the device. The injection port is arranged at a position corresponding to the granules falling from the plurality of grooves of the shooter 12.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, a plate-shaped member 51 is arranged in the inspection area IA. As shown in FIG. 5, the member 51 is arranged in the detection areas DU and DL so that the figure F is drawn on the surface and the figure F appears in the output of the detection device 20 (sensor 23). The support mode of the member 51 is arbitrary, but it is preferable that the member 51 is supported by the shooter 12. The presence or absence of an abnormality in the positions of the detection areas DU and DL is determined based on the portion corresponding to the figure F in the output of the detection device 20 (sensor 23).

As shown in FIG. 3, the member 51 is arranged in such a posture that the normal of its surface is parallel to the Y direction. The figure F is drawn on the Y1 side surface and the Y2 side surface of the member 51. The figure F is drawn so that the reflectance of light is smaller than that of the remaining area. The figure F is drawn so that the transmittance of light is smaller than that of the remaining area. The figure F is preferably drawn in black. The region of the member 51 other than the figure F is translucent or transparent. The figure F includes a triangle F1 and a rectangle F2.

〔Control device〕
The control device 7 is an ECU, and as shown in FIG. 4, a quality determination unit 7a, a detection unit 7b, an abnormality determination unit 7c, an abnormality determination unit 7d between facing sensors, an abnormality determination unit 7e between upper and lower sensors, and a storage unit 7f. A selection sensitivity calculation unit 7g, a change unit 7h, an exclusion control unit 7j, and a position abnormality determination unit 7k are provided. The control device 7 is connected to the inspection unit 4 and the notification device 8 and is configured to be controllable. The control device 7 includes a memory (HDD, non-volatile RAM, etc., not shown) for storing programs and control parameters corresponding to the above-mentioned functional units, and a CPU (not shown) for executing the program. There is. When the program is executed by the CPU, the functions of each functional unit are realized. The control device 7 may be composed of a plurality of ECUs capable of communicating with each other.

The quality determination unit 7a determines whether the granular material is a normal product or a defective product based on the output of the sensor 23 received by the control device 7. The details of the operation of the pass / fail determination unit 7a and other functional units will be described later with reference to FIGS. 5-10.

The detection unit 7b detects a decrease in light intensity due to the granules for each of a plurality of channels in the output of the sensor 23.

The abnormality determination unit 7c determines that an abnormality has occurred when it detects that one granular body straddles an adjacent channel in the output of the sensor 23. The abnormality determination unit 7c activates the notification device 8 when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred.

When the abnormality determination unit 7c determines that the front sensor 23A (an example of the first sensor) and the rear sensor 23B (an example of the second sensor) have an abnormality at about the same time, the abnormality determination unit 7d between the facing sensors determines that an abnormality has occurred. Judge that an abnormality has occurred. The abnormality determination unit 7d between the facing sensors operates the notification device 8 when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred.

The abnormality determination unit 7e between the upper and lower sensors detects that the abnormality determination unit 7c straddles one granular body in the abnormality channel set which is an adjacent channel in the output of the rear sensor 23B (an example of the upper sensor). Further, when the abnormality determination unit 7c detects that one granular body straddles the channel corresponding to the abnormality channel set in the output of the transmission sensor 23C (an example of the lower sensor), it is determined that an abnormality has occurred. do. The abnormality determination unit 7e between the upper and lower sensors operates the notification device 8 when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred.

The storage unit 7f stores, for example, the operation parameters of the inspection unit 4, the threshold value used for determining the quality of the granules, and the like.

The sorting sensitivity calculation unit 7g calculates the sorting sensitivity, which is the number of defective products detected per unit time, for each of the plurality of inspection units 4 based on the judgment result by the quality determination unit 7a.

The changing unit 7h is adjusted so that the difference between the sorting sensitivity in the reference unit, which is one of the plurality of inspection units 4, and the sorting sensitivity in the adjusted unit, which is the remaining inspection unit 4, is small. Change the operating parameters of the unit.

The exclusion control unit 7j controls the operation timing of the exclusion device 30 (air blowing device 31).

The position abnormality determination unit 7k determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the positions of the detection areas DL and DU based on the portion corresponding to the figure F in the output of the detection device 20 (sensor 23).

[Judgment of quality of granules]
With reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the quality determination of the granular material and the elimination of defective products performed by the inspection unit 4 will be described. FIG. 5 is a schematic view of the inspection region IA viewed from the front side of the device in the directions orthogonal to the Y direction and the Z direction. The right side in the figure corresponds to the right side of the device, and the upper part in the figure corresponds to the Z1 side.

The granules released from the groove of the shooter 12 fall in the Z2 direction, pass through the inspection area IA, and pass in front of the air blowing device 31. The paths through which the granules move are referred to as paths R1, R2, R3, ... Rn in order from the left. n is the same as the number of grooves in the shooter 12.

The injection port of the air blowing device 31 is arranged so as to correspond to each of the path R1 to the path Rn. The injection ports corresponding to the paths R1, R2, ... Rn are referred to as injection ports S1, S2, S3, ... Sn. That is, the granules falling on the path R1 pass in front of the injection port S1.

As described above, the light from the inspection area IA travels along the optical axis 26A, enters the front camera 22A, and reaches the surface of the front sensor 23A. In the present embodiment, the front sensor 23A is a line sensor and has a plurality of pixels E1, E2, ... Em arranged in a row. m is the total number of pixels possessed by the front sensor 23A. What is detected by the front sensor 23A is the light from the elongated region extending from the optical axis 26A in the left-right direction of the device among the light from the inspection region IA. This area is referred to as a detection area DU. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, light from the detection region DU is incident on the front sensor 23A. The plurality of pixels E1, E2, ... Em are arranged along the direction corresponding to the parallel direction (left-right direction of the device) of the granules in the inspection region IA (detection region DU).

In the present embodiment, the rear sensor 23B of the rear camera 22B is also a line sensor. As shown in FIG. 3, the optical axis 26B of the rear camera 22B passes through the detection region DU. That is, the light from the detection region DU is incident on the rear sensor 23B.

In this embodiment, the transmission sensor 23C of the transmission camera 22C is also a line sensor. As shown in FIG. 3, the optical axis 26C of the transmission camera 22C passes through the Z2 side (lower side in the vertical direction of the device) of the detection region DU. What is detected by the transmission sensor 23C of the transmission camera 22C is the light from the elongated region extending from the optical axis 26C in the left-right direction of the device among the light from the inspection region IA. This region is referred to as a detection region DL (FIGS. 3 and 5). As shown in FIG. 3, the light from the detection region DL is incident on the transmission sensor 23C. The detection area DL is located on the lower side (Z2 side) of the detection area DU.

An example of the output of the front sensor 23A is shown at the bottom of FIG. In the illustrated example, the output of the front sensor 23A shows a decrease in output at 6 points. This is because the granules G1 falling on the path R2, the granules G2 falling on the path R4, and the four figures F are located in the detection region DU and reflect the granules G1, the granules G2, and the four figures F. This is due to the fact that the light is incident on the front sensor 23A. That is, the intensity of the light that reflects the granules and is incident on the front sensor 23A is smaller than the intensity of the light from the background member 21A. As described above, when the granules pass through the detection region DU (and the detection region DL), the output of the sensor 23 changes.

FIG. 6 shows an example in which the granular material G1 is a defective product. In the illustrated example, the granular body G1 is a grain of rice and has a normal region A1, a colored region A2, and a black region A3. The color of the colored region A2 is darker than the color of the normal region A1. Therefore, the intensity of the light reflected in the colored region A2 is smaller than the intensity of the light reflected in the normal region A1. The color of the black region A3 is darker than the color of the colored region A2. Therefore, the intensity of the light reflected in the black region A3 is smaller than the intensity of the light reflected in the colored region A2. When the granular body G1 is at the position of FIG. 6 with respect to the detection region DU, the output of the front sensor 23A has a region where the output is reduced by the normal region A1, the colored region A2, and the black region A3.

Specifically, the background light (light from the background member 21A) is incident on the pixels E41-E44. The output of the pixels E41-E44 is smaller than the upper second threshold value SU2 and larger than the granular body detection threshold value SH. Light from the normal region A1 is incident on the pixels E45-47, E53-54, and E57-58. The output of these pixels is smaller than the granularity detection threshold SH and larger than the lower second threshold SL2. Light from the colored region A2 is incident on the pixels E48-52. The output of these pixels is smaller than the lower second threshold SL2 and larger than the lower first threshold SL1.
Light from the black region A3 is incident on the pixels E55-56. The output of these pixels is smaller than the lower first threshold SL1.

The quality determination unit 7a determines that the granular material is a defective product when there are pixels whose output is smaller than the lower first threshold value SL1 or the lower second threshold value SL2 in the output of the front sensor 23A. Specifically, the pass / fail determination unit 7a determines that the granular material is a defective product related to the lower first defect when there are pixels whose output is smaller than the lower first threshold SL1 in the output of the front sensor 23A. .. The first lower defect is, for example, "stink bug damage". The quality determination unit 7a determines that the granular material is a defective product related to the lower second defect when there are pixels whose output is smaller than the lower second threshold SL2 in the output of the front sensor 23A. The lower second defect is, for example, "burning".

Further, the pass / fail determination unit 7a determines that the granular material is a defective product when there are pixels whose output is larger than the upper first threshold value SU1 or the upper second threshold value SU2 in the output of the front sensor 23A. Specifically, the pass / fail determination unit 7a determines that the granular material is a defective product related to the upper first defect when there is a pixel whose output is larger than the upper first threshold value SU1 in the output of the front sensor 23A. The upper first defect is, for example, "glass" or "transparent resin". The quality determination unit 7a determines that the granular material is a defective product related to the upper second defect when there is a pixel whose output is larger than the upper second threshold value SU2 in the output of the front sensor 23A.

Here, the pass / fail determination unit 7a may make a pass / fail determination based on the number of pixels whose output is below the threshold value, in addition to the magnitude of the output with respect to the threshold value. For example, the pass / fail determination unit 7a determines that, in the output of the front sensor 23A, there are pixels whose output is smaller than the lower first threshold value SL1, and the number of the pixels is larger than the lower first threshold value. It is determined that the granular material is a defective product related to the lower first defect. The pass / fail determination unit 7a is a granular body in the output of the front sensor 23A when there are pixels whose output is smaller than the lower second threshold value SL2 and the number of the pixels is larger than the lower second quantity threshold value. Is a defective product related to the lower second defect. In the output of the front sensor 23A, the quality determination unit 7a indicates that the granular body is on the upper side when there are pixels whose output is larger than the upper first threshold value SU1 and the number of the pixels is larger than the upper first quantity threshold value. It is determined that the product is defective according to the first defect. In the output of the front sensor 23A, the quality determination unit 7a indicates that the granular body is on the upper side when there are pixels whose output is larger than the upper second threshold value SU2 and the number of the pixels is larger than the upper second quantity threshold value. It is determined that the product is defective according to the second defect.

The quality determination unit 7a determines the quality of the granular material based on the output of the rear sensor 23B, as in the case of the output of the front sensor 23A described above. The rear sensor 23B detects the light emitted from the detection area DU of the inspection area IA to the Y2 side. Therefore, the quality determination unit 7a determines the quality of the granular material for both the reflected light on the Y1 side and the Y2 side of the granular material.

The quality determination unit 7a determines the quality of the granular material based on the output of the transmission sensor 23C, as in the case of the output of the front sensor 23A described above. When the granules are rice grains, the judgment of the lower first defect by the quality determination unit 7a based on the output of the transmission sensor 23C is compared with the normal products such as "fir", "shirata", and "milky white". It is a judgment that it is difficult for light to pass through. The determination of the first defect on the upper side is a determination that light is more easily transmitted than normal products such as "glutinous rice in glutinous rice" and "blue rice".

〔Channel〕
The quality determination unit 7a determines the quality of the granular material based on the output of the front sensor 23A for each of the plurality of paths R1, R2, ... Rn. Specifically, the pass / fail determination unit 7a distributes a plurality of pixels E1, E2, ... Em of the front sensor 23A so as to correspond to a plurality of parallel paths R1, R2, ... Rn, and a plurality of channels. CH1, CH2, ... CHn are set, and the quality of the granules is determined for each of these plurality of channels. That is, the plurality of channels CH1, CH2, ... CHn correspond to the plurality of paths R1, R2, ... Rn, and the plurality of injection ports S1, S2, ... -Corresponds to Sn.

In the example of FIG. 6, the light from the portion overlapping the path R2 in the detection region DU is incident on the pixels E41-63 in the front sensor 23A. Therefore, the pixels E41-63 corresponding to the path R2 are set as the channel CH2. A predetermined number of pixels up to the pixel E40 corresponding to the path R1 are set as the channel CH1. A predetermined number of pixels after the pixel E64 corresponding to the path R3 are set as the channel CH3. The channels are initially set when the device is manufactured. The distribution setting values of the pixels E1, E2, ... Em with respect to the channels CH1, CH2, ... CHn are stored in the storage unit 7f.

If the above-mentioned determination criteria are satisfied in the portion of the output of the front sensor 23A corresponding to a certain channel, the quality determination unit 7a determines that the granular material in the path corresponding to the channel is a defective product. Then, when the quality determination unit 7a determines that the granular material of one channel is a defective product, the exclusion control unit 7j determines that the air blowing device 31 (exclusion device 30) injects air from the injection port corresponding to the channel. ) Is activated. Specifically, the exclusion control unit 7j operates the air blowing device 31 after a predetermined time has elapsed after the quality determination unit 7a determines that the granular material is a defective product.

Similarly, the quality determination unit 7a determines the quality of the granular material based on the output of the rear sensor 23B for each of the plurality of paths R1, R2, ... Rn. Specifically, the pass / fail determination unit 7a distributes a plurality of pixels E1, E2, ... Em of the rear sensor 23B so as to correspond to a plurality of parallel paths R1, R2, ... Rn, and a plurality of channels. CH1, CH2, ... CHn are set, and the quality of the granules is determined for each of these plurality of channels. Further, the quality determination unit 7a determines the quality of the granular material based on the output of the transmission sensor 23C for each of the plurality of paths R1, R2, ... Rn. Specifically, the pass / fail determination unit 7a distributes a plurality of pixels E1, E2, ... Em of the transmission sensor 23C so as to correspond to a plurality of parallel paths R1, R2, ... Rn, and a plurality of channels. CH1, CH2, ... CHn are set, and the quality of the granules is determined for each of these plurality of channels. That is, the channel distributions of the front sensor 23A, the rear sensor 23B, and the transmission sensor 23C are set so that the channels of the same number correspond to the paths and injection ports of the same number. The number and number of pixels E distributed to the same channel number may differ among the front sensor 23A, the rear sensor 23B, and the transmission sensor 23C.

The setting value of pixel distribution for each channel in each sensor is stored in the storage unit 7f. The quality determination unit 7a reads data indicating the correspondence between the channel and the pixel from the storage unit 7f, and determines the quality of the granular material based on the output of each sensor for each channel.

[Judgment of abnormality in the detection area]
When the granular inspection device is manufactured, the detection areas DU and DL are set to the design positions.
Specifically, when the transmission device 10 and the detection device 20 are assembled as designed and the focus of the lens device 25 is adjusted, the detection areas DU and DL are determined at the design positions. However, if the granular inspection device is impacted during transportation, installation, or operation, the transmission device 10, the detection device 20, and the internal configurations of these devices are displaced, and the positions of the detection areas DU and DL are abnormal. May occur. In the present embodiment, the presence or absence of an abnormality in the positions of the detection areas DU and DL is determined based on the portion corresponding to the figure F in the output of the detection device 20 (sensor 23), and notification, automatic adjustment, and the like are performed.

Hereinafter, the mode of determining the abnormality of the position of the detection area DU and the automatic adjustment will be described. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 7-10, the triangle F1 and the rectangle F2 as the figure F are drawn on the member 51.

Hereinafter, the hypotenuse of the triangle F1 is referred to as a portion F1a (an example of the first portion). The portion F1a is located on the left side as it goes to the Z2 side. In other words, the portion F1a is inclined with respect to the Z direction.
The long side of the triangle F1 is referred to as a portion F1b. The portion F1b extends parallel to the Z direction. Of the long sides of the rectangle F2, the one closer to the triangle F1 is referred to as a portion F2a (an example of a second portion). The portion F2a extends parallel to the Z direction. Of the long sides of the rectangle F2, the one farther from the triangle F1 is referred to as a portion F2b (an example of a second portion). The portion F2b extends parallel to the Z direction.

FIG. 7 shows a change in the output of the front sensor 23A when the position of the detection area DU changes to the Z2 side (lower side).

The detection area DU of the normal position before the change is shown by a solid line, and the detection area DU of the abnormal position after the change is shown by a broken line. When the detection area DU is in the solid line position, the detection area DU is in the upper position in the triangle F1 and the rectangle F2.

When the detection area DU moves to the position of the broken line, the detection area DU moves to the lower position in the triangle F1 and the rectangle F2. Therefore, the area occupied by the triangle F1 in the detection area DU becomes larger in the left-right direction. This is because the portion F1a, which is the hypotenuse of the triangle F1, is located on the left side as it advances toward the Z2 side, and is inclined with respect to the moving direction (Z direction) of the detection region DU.

On the other hand, the size of the area occupied by the rectangle F2 in the detection area DU does not change. This is because the portions F2a and F2b of the rectangle F2 extend in parallel with the Z direction.

The above-mentioned change in the area occupied by the figure F in the detection area DU appears as a change in the output of the front sensor 23A. The output of the front sensor 23A (hereinafter referred to as “pre-change output”) when the detection region DU is at the position of the solid line is shown in the middle of FIG. 7. The lower part of FIG. 7 shows the output of the front sensor 23A (hereinafter referred to as “changed output”) when the detection area DU is at the position of the broken line.

Focus on the falling edge of the leftmost output (first from the left) in the output of the front sensor 23A.
This fall corresponds to the portion F1a of the left triangle F1. In the pre-change output, this fall occurs in pixel a1. In the post-change output, this fall occurs in pixel b1 located further to the left. That is, the falling position has moved to the left.

Focus on the rising edge of the leftmost output (first from the left) in the output of the front sensor 23A.
This rise corresponds to the portion F1b of the left triangle F1. In the pre-change output, this rise occurs in pixel a2. In the post-change output, this rise occurs at pixel b2, which is at substantially the same position as pixel a2. That is, the rising position has not moved.

Pay attention to the fall of the second output from the left in the output of the front sensor 23A. This fall corresponds to the portion F2a of the rectangle F2 on the left. In the pre-change output, this fall occurs in pixel a3. In the post-change output, this fall occurs at pixel b3, which is at approximately the same position as pixel a3. That is, the falling position has not moved.

Focus on the rising edge of the second output from the left in the output of the front sensor 23A. This rise corresponds to the portion F2b of the rectangle F2 on the left. In the pre-change output, this rise occurs in pixel a4. In the post-change output, this rise occurs at pixel b4, which is at approximately the same position as pixel a4. That is, the rising position has not moved.

Focus on the fall of the third output from the left in the output of the front sensor 23A. This fall corresponds to the portion F2b of the right rectangle F2. In the pre-change output, this fall occurs in pixel a5. In the post-change output, this fall occurs at pixel b5, which is at approximately the same position as pixel a5. That is, the falling position has not moved.

Focus on the rising edge of the third output from the left in the output of the front sensor 23A. This rise corresponds to the portion F2a of the right rectangle F2. In the pre-change output, this rise occurs in pixel a6. In the post-change output, this rise occurs at pixel b6, which is at approximately the same position as pixel a6. That is, the rising position has not moved.

Focus on the rise of the fourth (right end) from the left in the output of the front sensor 23A. This rise corresponds to the portion F1b of the right triangle F1. In the pre-change output, this rise occurs at pixel a7. In the post-change output, this rise occurs at pixel b7, which is at approximately the same position as pixel a7. That is, the rising position has not moved.

Pay attention to the falling edge of the fourth (right end) from the left in the output of the front sensor 23A. This fall corresponds to the portion F1a of the right triangle F1. In the pre-change output, this fall occurs in pixel a8. In the post-change output, this fall occurs at pixel b8 located further to the right. That is, the falling position has moved to the right.

The movement direction and movement amount of the detection region DU with respect to the Z direction correspond to the movement direction and movement amount of the portion (rising and falling) corresponding to the portion F1a in the output of the front sensor 23A on a one-to-one basis. The shape of the triangle F1 drawn on the member 51 (inclination of the portion F1a with respect to the Z direction, etc.) is known. Therefore, the amount of change in the position of the detection region DU in the Z direction (hereinafter referred to as “the amount of change in the transmission direction”) can be calculated based on the amount of change in the output of the front sensor 23A. The amount of change in the output of the front sensor 23A that can be used to calculate the amount of change in the transmission direction is, for example, the following amount.

The amount of change in the falling position of the output at the left end, that is, the distance between the pixel a1 and the pixel b1.

The amount of change in the distance from the falling position to the rising position of the output, that is, the difference between (distance between pixel a1 and pixel a2) and (distance between pixel b1 and pixel b2).

The amount of change in the rising position of the output at the right end, that is, the distance between the pixel a8 and the pixel b8.

The amount of change in the distance from the falling position to the rising position of the output, that is, the difference between (distance between pixel a7 and pixel a8) and (distance between pixel b7 and pixel b8).

In the present embodiment, the presence or absence of an abnormality in the position of the detection area DU is determined by using the above-mentioned items. That is, the position abnormality determination unit 7k determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the position of the detection area DU based on the portion corresponding to the figure F in the output of the detection device 20 (front sensor 23A). For example, the position abnormality determination unit 7k determines that the position of the detection area DU is abnormal when the falling position (pixels b1 and b8) at the right end (or left end) exceeds a preset normal range. do.

The storage unit 7f may store the normal output (the above-mentioned pre-change output) which is the output of the detection device 20 (pre-sensor 23A) when the detection area DU is normal. In this case, the position abnormality determination unit 7k compares the output of the current front sensor 23A with the normal output stored in the storage unit 7f, and determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the position of the detection area DU. For example, the position abnormality determination unit 7k has a falling position (pixels a1 and a8) at the right end (or left end) in the normal output and a falling position (pixel b1 and) at the right end (or left end) in the output of the current front sensor 23A. The amount of fluctuation in the transmission direction is calculated based on b8), and when the amount of fluctuation in the transmission direction exceeds the threshold value, it is determined that the position of the detection region DU is abnormal.

Here, the exclusion control unit 7j operates the air blowing device 31 after a predetermined time has elapsed after the quality determination unit 7a determines that the granular material is a defective product. The operation timing of the air blowing device 31 is controlled by the exclusion control unit 7j. When the detection region DU moves in the Z direction, it becomes necessary to change the operation timing of the air blowing device 31. This is because when the detection region DU moves in the Z direction, the time for the granules to reach the front of the injection port of the air blowing device 31 after passing through the detection region DU changes.

In the present embodiment, the exclusion control unit 7j changes the operation timing of the exclusion device 30 (air blowing device 31) based on the transmission direction fluctuation amount calculated by the position abnormality determination unit 7k. For example, when the detection area DU moves to the Z1 side, the exclusion control unit 7j delays the operation timing by the time corresponding to the calculated transmission direction fluctuation amount.

After the exclusion control unit 7j changes the operation timing, defective products are appropriately excluded. After the exclusion control unit 7j changes the operation timing, the storage unit 7f may store (update) the output of the front sensor 23A as a normal output.

As described above, the portion F1a of the triangle F1 is the leftmost output in the output of the detection device 20 (front sensor 23A) when the detection region DU shifts along the Z direction (an example of a specific direction) (FIG. 7). The falling position (the portion corresponding to the portion F1a) changes (pixel a1 → pixel b1). The part F1a (hypotenuse) of the triangle F1 is an example of the "first part" described in the claims.

Further, the portions F2a and F2b of the rectangle F2 are the second from the left in the output of the detection device 20 (front sensor 23A) when the detection region DU shifts along the Z direction (an example of a specific direction) (FIG. 7). The falling position of the output (the part corresponding to the part F2a) and the rising position of the second output from the left (the part corresponding to the part F2b) do not change (pixel a3 → pixel b3, pixel a4 → pixel b4). Is. The portions F2a and F2b of the rectangle F2 are examples of the "second portion" described in the claims.

FIG. 8 shows a change in the output of the front sensor 23A when the position of the detection area DU changes to the right side.

The detection area DU of the normal position before the change is shown by a solid line, and the detection area DU of the abnormal position after the change is shown by a broken line. When the detection area DU changes from the position of the solid line to the position of the broken line, the area occupied by the figure F in the detection area DU moves to the left. On the other hand, the size of the area occupied by the figure F in the detection area DU does not change.

The above-mentioned movement of the area occupied by the figure F in the detection area DU appears as a change in the output of the front sensor 23A. In the middle of FIG. 8, the output of the front sensor 23A (hereinafter referred to as “pre-change output”) when the detection region DU is at the position of the solid line is shown. The lower part of FIG. 8 shows the output of the front sensor 23A (hereinafter referred to as “changed output”) when the detection area DU is at the position of the broken line.

Focus on the falling edge of the leftmost output (first from the left) in the output of the front sensor 23A.
This fall corresponds to the portion F1a of the left triangle F1. In the pre-change output, this fall occurs in pixel a1. In the post-change output, this fall occurs in pixel b2, which is located slightly to the left of pixel a1. That is, the falling position has moved to the left.

Other falling edges and rising edges also occur in the pixel (b2-b8) located slightly to the left of the pixel (a2-a8) in the output before the change in the output after the change. That is, the other falling and rising positions are also moving to the left.

The movement direction and movement amount of the detection area DU in the left-right direction correspond to the movement direction and movement amount of the portion (rising and falling) corresponding to the figure F in the output of the front sensor 23A on a one-to-one basis. The shape of the figure F drawn on the member 51 (width of rectangle F2, distance between triangle F1 and rectangle F2, etc.) is known. Therefore, the amount of change in the position of the detection region DU in the left-right direction (hereinafter referred to as "the amount of change in the parallel direction") can be calculated based on the amount of change in the output of the front sensor 23A. The amount of change in the output of the front sensor 23A that can be used to calculate the amount of fluctuation in the parallel direction is, for example, the following amount.

The amount of change in the falling position and rising position of the output, that is, the distance between the pixel a1 and the pixel b1, the distance between the pixel a2 and the pixel b2, the distance between the pixel a3 and the pixel b3, and the distance between the pixel a4 and the pixel b4. The distance between the pixel a5 and the pixel b5, the distance between the pixel a6 and the pixel b6, the distance between the pixel a7 and the pixel b7, and the distance between the pixel a8 and the pixel b8.

For the detection area DU, movement in the Z direction and movement in the left-right direction can occur at the same time. When the detection region DU moves in the Z direction, the falling and rising positions corresponding to the portion F1a of the triangle F1 change. On the other hand, the falling and rising positions corresponding to the portions F2a and F2b of the rectangle F2 (and the portion F1b of the triangle F1) do not change. Therefore, it is preferable to use the latter for determining the presence or absence of movement in the left-right direction and calculating the amount of fluctuation in the parallel direction.
Listed below.

Pixel b2-b7, distance between pixel a2 and pixel b2, distance between pixel a3 and pixel b3, distance between pixel a4 and pixel b4, distance between pixel a5 and pixel b5, and distance between pixel a6 and pixel b6. , The distance between pixel a7 and pixel b7,

In the present embodiment, the presence or absence of an abnormality in the position of the detection area DU is determined by using the above-mentioned items. That is, the position abnormality determination unit 7k determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the position of the detection area DU based on the portion corresponding to the figure F in the output of the detection device 20 (front sensor 23A). For example, in the position abnormality determination unit 7k, when the falling position and / or the rising position (pixels a2-a7) excluding the left end and the right end exceed the preset normal range, the position of the detection area DU is abnormal. Is determined to be.

The storage unit 7f may store the normal output (the above-mentioned pre-change output) which is the output of the detection device 20 (pre-sensor 23A) when the detection area DU is normal. In this case, the position abnormality determination unit 7k compares the output of the current front sensor 23A with the normal output stored in the storage unit 7f, and determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the position of the detection area DU. For example, the position abnormality determination unit 7k has a falling position and / or a rising position (pixels a2-a7) excluding the left end and the right end in the normal output, and a falling position and / or a falling position excluding the left end and the right end in the current output of the front sensor 23A. / Or The parallel direction fluctuation amount is calculated based on the rising position (pixel b2-b7), and when the parallel direction fluctuation amount exceeds the threshold value, it is determined that the position of the detection region DU is abnormal.

Here, the quality determination unit 7a determines the quality of the granular material for each of a plurality of channels. If the detection region DU moves in the left-right direction, the quality of the granules and the elimination of defective products are not properly performed. For example, if the detection region DU shifts to the right in the state shown in FIG. 6, the light from the colored region A2 may be incident on the pixels (pixels to the left of the pixel E40) distributed to the channel CH1. Then, although the granular body G1 is located in the path R2, the quality determination unit 7a may determine that the channel CH1 is a defective product. In that case, since the exclusion control unit 7j ejects air from the injection port S1 corresponding to the path R1, the granular body G1 located in the path R2 is not excluded.

In the present embodiment, the pass / fail determination unit 7a changes the distribution of the pixels to the channels according to the parallel direction fluctuation amount calculated by the position abnormality determination unit 7k. For example, the pass / fail determination unit 7a changes the channel distribution in the direction opposite to the moving direction of the detection region DU with a size corresponding to the amount of fluctuation in the parallel direction. The storage unit 7f stores the new channel distribution changed by the pass / fail determination unit 7a.

After the quality determination unit 7a changes the channel distribution, defective products are appropriately determined and eliminated. After the pass / fail determination unit 7a changes the channel distribution, the storage unit 7f may store (update) the output of the front sensor 23A as a normal output.

The control device 7 may be configured to perform only one of the determination / processing related to the movement of the detection area DU in the left-right direction and the determination / processing related to the movement of the detection area DU in the Z direction described above. The control device 7 may be configured to perform both in combination.

FIG. 9 shows a change in the output of the front sensor 23A when the position of the detection area DU is rotated.

The detection area DU of the normal position before the change is shown by a solid line, and the detection area DU of the abnormal position after the change is shown by a broken line. When the detection area DU changes from the position of the solid line to the position of the broken line, the area occupied by the figure F in the detection area DU changes in different manners on the left and right of the center of rotation.

To the left of the center of rotation, the area occupied by the triangle F1 and the rectangle F2 in the detection area DU becomes larger in the left-right direction and moves to the left.

To the right of the center of rotation, the area occupied by the triangle F1 and the rectangle F2 in the detection area DU becomes smaller in the left-right direction and moves to the right.

Although detailed description is omitted, the falling and rising positions (pixels a1-a8) in the output before the change correspond to the changes in the area occupied by the figure F in the detection area DU, and the falling and rising positions in the output after the change. It changes to the position (pixels b1-b8).

Here, the relationship between the movement (translation, rotation) of the detection area DU and the output change of the front sensor 23A will be examined. Light from the inspection area IA travels along the optical axis 26A, passes through the mirror 24 and the lens device 25, and reaches the light receiving surface of the front sensor 23A. Therefore, the coordinate system in the inspection area IA and the coordinate system in the light receiving surface of the front sensor 23A have a one-to-one correspondence and can be geometrically converted. Based on this conversion relationship, it is possible to calculate the movement amount (translation / rotation) of the detection region DU from the changes in the falling and rising positions in the output of the front sensor 23A.

When the detection area DU is rotated (or tilted) as shown in FIG. 9, the amount of movement in the Z direction and the amount of movement in the left-right direction change according to the position in the detection area DU. Therefore, regarding the change of the operation timing of the exclusion device 30 and the change of the channel distribution described above, it is necessary to change the mode of the change for each channel.

For example, for the channel located to the left of the center of rotation, the detection area DU has moved to the Z2 side, so it is necessary to accelerate the operation timing of the exclusion device 30. On the other hand, for the channel located to the right of the center of rotation, the detection region DU has moved to the Z1 side, so it is necessary to delay the operation timing of the exclusion device 30. In addition, it is necessary to make the width of the channel different according to the distance from the center of rotation. The width of the channel far from the center of rotation should be smaller than the width of the channel near the center of rotation.

In consideration of the above-mentioned matters, the control device 7 may be configured as follows. The position abnormality determination unit 7k calculates the amount of fluctuation in the transmission direction for each channel. The exclusion control unit 7j changes the operation timing of the exclusion device 30 based on the transmission direction fluctuation amount for each channel calculated by the position abnormality determination unit 7k. The position abnormality determination unit 7k calculates the translational direction fluctuation amount for each channel. The pass / fail determination unit 7a changes the channel distribution based on the translational direction variation amount for each channel calculated by the position abnormality determination unit 7k.

FIG. 10 shows a change in the output of the front sensor 23A when the position of the detection area DU changes in the Y direction (direction orthogonal to the paper surface).

In this case, the so-called out-of-focus state is reached. The contrast of the output after change (lower part of FIG. 10) is smaller than that of the output before change (middle part of FIG. 10). In other words, the amount of decrease in the output due to the figure F in the post-change output is smaller than the amount of decrease in the output due to the figure F in the pre-change output. On the other hand, the falling and rising positions (pixels b1-b8) in the output after the change have not changed from the output before the change.

In the present embodiment, the presence or absence of an abnormality in the position of the detection area DU is determined by using the above-mentioned items. That is, the position abnormality determination unit 7k determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the position of the detection area DU based on the portion corresponding to the figure F in the output of the detection device 20 (front sensor 23A). For example, the position abnormality determination unit 7k determines that the position of the detection area DU is abnormal when the output by the figure F exceeds the preset normal range.

Further, the position abnormality determination unit 7k adjusts the focus of the front lens device 25A based on the portion corresponding to the figure F in the output of the detection device 20 (front sensor 23A). For example, the position abnormality determination unit 7k adjusts the focus of the front lens device 25A so that the amount of decrease in the output due to the figure F is small.

Similar to the above-described embodiment, the determination of the abnormality in the position of the detection area DU is performed based on the output of the rear sensor 23B. That is, the position abnormality determination unit 7k determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the position of the detection region DU based on the portion corresponding to the figure F in the output of the rear sensor 23B. In that case, the change of the channel distribution by the pass / fail determination unit 7a is executed for the channel distribution of the rear sensor 23B. The change of the operation timing of the exclusion device 30 by the exclusion control unit 7j is executed with respect to the operation timing of the rear sensor 23B. The focus adjustment by the position abnormality determination unit 7k is executed for the front lens device 25A.

Similar to the above-described embodiment, the determination of the abnormality in the position of the detection region DL is performed based on the output of the transmission sensor 23C. That is, the position abnormality determination unit 7k determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the position of the detection region DL based on the portion corresponding to the figure F in the output of the transmission sensor 23C.
In that case, the change of the channel distribution by the pass / fail determination unit 7a is executed for the channel distribution of the transmission sensor 23C. The change of the operation timing of the exclusion device 30 by the exclusion control unit 7j is executed with respect to the operation timing of the transmission sensor 23C. The focus adjustment by the position abnormality determination unit 7k is executed for the front lens device 25A.

[Detection area error handling process]
The detection area abnormality handling process executed by the granular material inspection apparatus will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The detection area abnormality handling process is repeatedly executed while the granular inspection device is in operation. The detection area abnormality handling process may be executed when the granular body inspection device is started, or may be executed in response to an operation input from the operator.

The control device 7 acquires an output from each sensor 23 (step # 101).

The position abnormality determination unit 7k determines whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the positions of the detection areas DU and DL based on the output of each sensor 23 acquired in step # 101 (step # 102).

When it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the positions of the detection areas DU and DL (step # 102: Yes), the position abnormality determination unit 7k activates the notification device 8 (step # 103).

After executing step # 103, the pass / fail determination unit 7a changes the channel distribution of the sensor 23 (step # 104).

After the execution of step # 104, the exclusion control unit 7j changes the operation timing of the exclusion device 30 (step # 105).

After executing step # 105, the position abnormality determination unit 7k adjusts the focus of the lens device 25.

When it is determined that no abnormality has occurred in the positions of the detection areas DU and DL (step # 102: No), and after the execution of step # 105, the detection area abnormality handling process ends.

[Other embodiments]
(1) The quantity, shape and position of the member 51 are not limited to the above examples. The inspection area IA may be provided with a member 51 for the front sensor 23A, a member 51 for the rear sensor 23B, and a member 51 for the transmission sensor 23C. A part of the member 51 for each sensor 23 may be provided in the inspection area IA.

(2) The quantity, shape and position of the figure F are not limited to the above examples. The figure F may be one of a triangle F1 and a rectangle F2. The figure F may be a polygon. The figure F may include a white figure (that is, a figure having only a contour line). The figure F may be a line segment.

(3) The member 51 for the front sensor 23A and the member 51 for the rear sensor 23B preferably have an opaque white region other than the figure F. The member 51 for the transmission sensor 23C preferably has a transparent region other than the figure F.

(4) The control device 7 may be configured to control the sensitivity of the sensor 23 and / or the emission intensity of the lighting device 21 based on the corresponding portion between the two figures F in the output of the sensor 23. ..

(5) The position abnormality determination unit 7k calculates the position fluctuation amount (sending direction fluctuation amount, parallel direction fluctuation amount) of the detection areas DU and DL, and operates the notification device 8 when the position fluctuation amount exceeds the notification threshold value. It may be configured as follows. For example, the notification threshold value is set as a fluctuation amount of a limit in which defective product exclusion can be appropriately executed by changing the timing and channel distribution.

(6) When the control device 7 determines that the positions of the detection areas DU and DL are abnormal, the notification device 8 is operated, the channel distribution is changed, the operation timing of the exclusion device 30 is changed, and the lens device 25 is focused. It may be configured to perform at least one of the adjustments.

(7) The present invention can be applied to an apparatus for inspecting granules (color sorter, optical sorter, etc.).

[Second Embodiment]
In the second embodiment, a configuration different from that of the first embodiment will be mainly described. The configuration common to the first embodiment will be omitted here.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, the plate-shaped member 51 is not arranged in the inspection area IA. An example of the output of the front sensor 23A is shown at the bottom of FIG. In the illustrated example, the output of the front sensor 23A shows a decrease in output at two points. This is because the granular body G1 falling on the path R2 and the granular body G2 falling on the path R4 are located in the detection region DU, and the light reflected from the granular body G1 and the granular body G2 is incident on the front sensor 23A. caused by. That is, the intensity of the light that reflects the granules and is incident on the front sensor 23A is smaller than the intensity of the light from the background member 21A. As described above, when the granules pass through the detection region DU (and the detection region DL), the output of the sensor 23 changes.
[Change of operating parameters]
In the present embodiment, the operation parameters of the inspection unit 4 are automatically changed by the changing unit 7h so that the difference in the sorting sensitivity between the two inspection units 4 becomes small. The operation parameter may be changed by the changing unit 7h while the inspection unit 4 is operating (inspection is being executed) or while the inspection unit 4 is stopped (inspection is being stopped).

Hereinafter, an example of changing the operating parameters of the right inspection unit 4R with the left inspection unit 4L as a reference will be described. That is, the left inspection unit 4L is the "reference unit which is one of a plurality of inspection units" described in the claims. The right inspection unit 4R is the "adjusted unit which is the remaining inspection unit" described in the claims. A reverse form, that is, a form in which the right inspection unit 4R is a reference unit and the left inspection unit 4L is an adjusted unit is also possible. The reference unit may be determined from the plurality of inspection units 4 based on the operation input from the operator.

[Selection sensitivity]
The sorting sensitivity calculation unit 7g calculates the sorting sensitivity, which is the number of defective products detected per unit time, for each of the plurality of inspection units 4 based on the determination result by the quality determination unit 7a.
For example, the sorting sensitivity calculation unit 7g stores the time, the type of the inspection unit 4, the type of the sensor 23, and the type of defect in the storage unit 7f as defective product data each time the quality determination unit 7a detects a defective product. For example, the sorting sensitivity calculation unit 7g stores the storage unit 7f as "time 15:07:24, right inspection unit 4R, front sensor 23A, lower first defect". The sorting sensitivity calculation unit 7g calculates the sorting sensitivity with reference to the defective product data stored in the storage unit 7f.

The "unit time" as a reference when the sorting sensitivity calculation unit 7g calculates the sorting sensitivity is determined in advance and stored in the storage unit 7f. The unit time may be changed by an operation input from the operator. The sorting sensitivity calculation unit 7g may detect the sorting sensitivity for a plurality of unit times (for example, 30 seconds and 1 hour).

The following 6 are listed as the sorting sensitivity that can be calculated by the sorting sensitivity calculation unit 7g.

Sorting sensitivity of the front sensor 23A of the left inspection unit 4L (hereinafter referred to as "left front sorting sensitivity")

Sorting sensitivity of the rear sensor 23B of the left inspection unit 4L (hereinafter referred to as "left rear sorting sensitivity")

Sorting sensitivity of the transmission sensor 23C of the left inspection unit 4L (hereinafter referred to as "left transmission sorting sensitivity")

Average of the sorting sensitivity of the left inspection unit 4L (the average of the left front sorting sensitivity, the left rear sorting sensitivity, and the left transmission sorting sensitivity, hereinafter referred to as "left average sorting sensitivity").

Sorting sensitivity of the front sensor 23A of the right inspection unit 4R (hereinafter referred to as "right front sorting sensitivity")

Sorting sensitivity of the rear sensor 23B of the right inspection unit 4R (hereinafter referred to as "right rear sorting sensitivity")

Sorting sensitivity of the transmission sensor 23C of the right inspection unit 4R (hereinafter referred to as "right transmission sorting sensitivity")

Average of the sorting sensitivity of the right inspection unit 4R (the average of the right front sorting sensitivity, the right rear sorting sensitivity, and the right transmission sorting sensitivity, hereinafter referred to as "right average sorting sensitivity").

Note that the sorting sensitivity calculation unit 7g may calculate the sorting sensitivity for each type of defect (lower first defect (for example, "stink bug damage"), lower second defect (for example, "burnt")).

[Operation parameters]
The following are examples of operating parameters to be changed by the changing unit 7h. The following operation parameters are stored in the storage unit 7f.

Setting transmission amount of the transmission device 10 (operation strength, operation time, operation interval of vibration feeder 11)

Sorting thresholds for each camera 22 (lower first threshold SL1, lower first quantity threshold, lower second threshold SL2, lower second quantity threshold, upper first threshold SU1, upper first quantity threshold, upper second) Threshold SU2, upper second quantity threshold)

Light emission intensity of lighting device 21 (light emitting devices of background members 21A, 121B, 121C, lighting units 21D, 121E, 121F, 121G)

Sensitivity of each sensor 23 (magnification of output voltage from pixel, magnification at the time of quantization, etc.)

Here, the control device 7 controls the transmission device 10 (vibration feeder 11) based on the set transmission amount as the operation parameter. In other words, the sending device 10 controls the sending amount of the granular material based on the set sending amount.

The quality determination unit 7a determines the quality of the granular material based on the selection threshold value as an operation parameter. In other words, the detection device 20 detects the granular material as a defective product based on the selection threshold value.

The control device 7 controls the lighting device 21 based on the emission intensity as an operation parameter. In other words, the illuminating device 21 illuminates the inspection area IA based on the emission intensity.

The control device 7 processes the output data from each sensor 23 based on the sensitivity of each sensor 23 as an operation parameter. In other words, the sensitivity of each sensor 23 is controlled by the control device 7.

[First change mode of operation parameter: set transmission amount]
The changing unit 7h changes the set transmission amount of the transmission device 10 so that the difference between the selection sensitivity of the right inspection unit 4R and the selection sensitivity of the left inspection unit 4L becomes small. Specifically, the changing unit 7h increases the set transmission amount in the right inspection unit 4R when the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R is smaller than the sorting sensitivity in the left inspection unit 4L. As the set transmission amount increases, the amount of granules transmitted from the transmission device 10 increases. As the parameter of inspection increases, the number of granules determined to be defective increases, and the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R increases. Therefore, the difference in sorting sensitivity becomes small.

On the contrary, the changing unit 7h reduces the set transmission amount in the right inspection unit 4R when the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R is larger than the sorting sensitivity in the left inspection unit 4L. When the set transmission amount decreases, the amount of granules transmitted from the transmission device 10 decreases. By reducing the parameter of inspection, the number of granules determined to be defective is reduced, and the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R is reduced. Therefore, the difference in sorting sensitivity becomes small.

The sorting sensitivity used for comparison by the changing unit 7h in the first changing mode can be, for example, the following combinations.

Left average sorting sensitivity and right average sorting sensitivity

Left front sorting sensitivity and right front sorting sensitivity

Left rear sorting sensitivity and right rear sorting sensitivity

Left transmission sorting sensitivity and right transmission sorting sensitivity

[Second change mode of operation parameter: selection threshold value]
The changing unit 7h changes the sorting threshold value of each camera 22 so that the difference between the sorting sensitivity of the right inspection unit 4R and the sorting sensitivity of the left inspection unit 4L becomes small. Specifically, when the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R is smaller than the sorting sensitivity in the left inspection unit 4L, the changing unit 7h changes the sorting threshold value in the right inspection unit 4R in a direction in which sorting becomes stricter. When the sorting threshold is changed in the direction of stricter sorting, the number of granules determined to be defective increases, and the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R increases. Therefore, the difference in sorting sensitivity becomes small.

The changes in the selection threshold in the direction of stricter selection are as follows.
Lower 1st threshold SL1 or lower 2nd threshold SL2: high Lower 1st quantity threshold or lower 2nd quantity threshold: small Upper 1st threshold SU1 or upper 2nd threshold SU2: low Upper 1st quantity threshold or upper Second quantity threshold: small

That is, with respect to the "lower" threshold value, the detection device 20 detects the granular material as a defective product when the light intensity detected by the sensor 23 is lower than the selection threshold value based on the selection threshold value. The changing unit 7h raises the sorting threshold value in the right inspection unit 4R when the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R is smaller than the sorting sensitivity in the left inspection unit 4L.

Further, regarding the "upper" threshold value, the detection device 20 detects the granular material as a defective product when the light intensity detected by the sensor 23 is higher than the selection threshold value based on the selection threshold value. The changing unit 7h lowers the sorting threshold value in the right inspection unit 4R when the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R is smaller than the sorting sensitivity in the left inspection unit 4L.

On the contrary, when the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R is larger than the sorting sensitivity in the left inspection unit 4L, the changing unit 7h changes the sorting threshold value in the right inspection unit 4R in a direction in which the sorting becomes loose. When the sorting threshold is changed in the direction of loosening the sorting, the number of granules determined to be defective is reduced, and the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R is reduced. Therefore, the difference in sorting sensitivity becomes small.

The change of the sorting threshold value in the direction of loosening the sorting is as follows.
Lower First Threshold SL1 or Lower Second Threshold SL2: Low Lower First Quantity Threshold or Lower Second Quantum Threshold: Large Upper First Threshold SU1 or Upper Second Threshold SU2: High Upper First Quantity Threshold or Upper Second quantity threshold: large

That is, with respect to the "lower" threshold value, the detection device 20 detects the granular material as a defective product when the light intensity detected by the sensor 23 is lower than the selection threshold value based on the selection threshold value. The changing unit 7h lowers the sorting threshold value in the right inspection unit 4R when the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R is larger than the sorting sensitivity in the left inspection unit 4L.

Further, regarding the "upper" threshold value, the detection device 20 detects the granular material as a defective product when the light intensity detected by the sensor 23 is higher than the selection threshold value based on the selection threshold value. The changing unit 7h raises the sorting threshold value in the right inspection unit 4R when the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R is larger than the sorting sensitivity in the left inspection unit 4L.

The sorting sensitivity used for comparison by the changing unit 7h in the second changing mode can be, for example, the following combinations.

Left average selection sensitivity and right average selection sensitivity: In this case, it is preferable that the selection threshold values related to all the sensors 23 are changed.

Left front sorting sensitivity and right front sorting sensitivity: In this case, it is preferable that the sorting threshold value related to the front sensor 23A is changed.

Left rear sorting sensitivity and right rear sorting sensitivity: In this case, it is preferable that the sorting threshold value related to the rear sensor 23B is changed.

Left transmission sorting sensitivity and right transmission sorting sensitivity: In this case, it is preferable that the sorting threshold value related to the transmission sensor 23C is changed.

The sorting sensitivity calculated for each type of defect may be used for comparison by the changing unit 7h.
In this case, it is preferable that the selection threshold value (for example, the lower first threshold SL1 and / or the lower first quantity threshold) corresponding to the type of defect (for example, the lower first defect) is changed.

[Third modification of operating parameters: emission intensity]
The changing unit 7h changes the emission intensity of the lighting device 21 so that the difference between the sorting sensitivity of the right inspection unit 4R and the sorting sensitivity of the left inspection unit 4L becomes small. Specifically, the changing unit 7h reduces the emission intensity in the right inspection unit 4R when the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R is smaller than the sorting sensitivity in the left inspection unit 4L. When the emission intensity becomes small, the inspection region IA becomes dark, the number of granules determined to be defective products increases, and the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R increases. Therefore, the difference in sorting sensitivity becomes small.

On the contrary, the change unit 7h increases the emission intensity in the right inspection unit 4R when the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R is larger than the sorting sensitivity in the left inspection unit 4L. When the emission intensity is increased, the inspection region IA becomes brighter, the number of granules determined to be defective is reduced, and the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R is reduced. Therefore, the difference in sorting sensitivity becomes small.

The sorting sensitivity used for comparison by the changing unit 7h in the third changing mode can be, for example, the following combinations.

Left average sorting sensitivity and right average sorting sensitivity: In this case, it is preferable that the emission intensity of the entire lighting device 21 (light emitting device related to all background members, all lighting units) is changed.

Left front sorting sensitivity and right front sorting sensitivity: In this case, it is preferable that the light emitting intensity of the lighting device 21 (light emitting device related to the background member 21A, lighting units 21D, 121E) related to the front sensor 23A is changed.

Left rear sorting sensitivity and right rear sorting sensitivity: In this case, it is preferable that the emission intensity of the lighting device 21 (light emitting device related to the background member 21B, lighting units 21F, 121G) related to the rear sensor 23B is changed.

Left transmission sorting sensitivity and right transmission sorting sensitivity: In this case, it is preferable that the emission intensity of the lighting device 21 (light emitting device related to the background member 21C, lighting units 21D, 121E) related to the transmission sensor 23C is changed.

[Third modification of operating parameters: emission intensity]
The changing unit 7h changes the sensitivity of the sensor 23 so that the difference between the sorting sensitivity of the right inspection unit 4R and the sorting sensitivity of the left inspection unit 4L becomes small. Specifically, the changing unit 7h increases the sensitivity of the sensor 23 in the right inspection unit 4R when the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R is smaller than the sorting sensitivity in the left inspection unit 4L. When the sensitivity of the sensor 23 becomes high (sensitive), the number of granules determined to be defective increases, and the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R increases. Therefore, the difference in sorting sensitivity becomes small.

On the contrary, the changing unit 7h lowers the sensitivity of the sensor 23 in the right inspection unit 4R when the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R is larger than the sorting sensitivity in the left inspection unit 4L. When the sensitivity of the sensor 23 becomes low (insensitive), the number of granules determined to be defective is reduced, and the sorting sensitivity in the right inspection unit 4R is reduced. Therefore, the difference in sorting sensitivity becomes small.

The sorting sensitivity used for comparison by the changing unit 7h in the fourth changing mode can be, for example, the following combinations.

Left average sorting sensitivity and right average sorting sensitivity: In this case, it is preferable that the sensitivities of all the sensors 23 are changed.

Left front sorting sensitivity and right front sorting sensitivity: In this case, it is preferable that the sensitivity of the front sensor 23A is changed.

Left rear sorting sensitivity and right rear sorting sensitivity: In this case, it is preferable that the sensitivity of the rear sensor 23B is changed.

Left transmission sorting sensitivity and right transmission sorting sensitivity: In this case, it is preferable that the sensitivity of the transmission sensor 23C is changed.

[Operation parameter change processing]
The operation parameter change process executed by the granular material inspection apparatus will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The operation parameter change process is repeatedly executed during the operation of the granular material inspection device. The operation parameter change process may be executed at a set predetermined time interval, or may be executed in response to an operation input from the operator.

The sorting sensitivity calculation unit 7g calculates the sorting sensitivity of the reference unit (left inspection unit 4L, the same applies hereinafter) and the adjusted unit (right inspection unit 4R, the same applies hereinafter) (step # 201).

The changing unit 7h calculates the difference between the sorting sensitivity of the adjusted unit and the sorting sensitivity of the reference unit based on the calculation result of step # 201, and determines whether or not the difference is equal to or less than a predetermined value (step #). 202). When the difference is equal to or less than a predetermined value (step # 202: Yes), the operation parameter change process ends.

When the difference in sorting sensitivity is not less than or equal to a predetermined value (step # 202: No), the changing unit 7h determines whether or not the sorting sensitivity of the unit to be adjusted is smaller than the sorting sensitivity of the reference unit (step # 203).

When the sorting sensitivity of the adjusted unit is smaller than the sorting sensitivity of the reference unit (step # 203: Yes), the changing unit 7h reduces the set transmission amount of the adjusted unit (step # 204).

When the sorting sensitivity of the adjusted unit is not smaller than the sorting sensitivity of the reference unit (step # 203: No), the changing unit 7h increases the set transmission amount of the adjusted unit (step # 205).

After executing step # 204 or step # 205, the sorting sensitivity calculation unit 7g again calculates the sorting sensitivity of the reference unit and the adjusted unit (step # 206).

The changing unit 7h calculates the difference between the sorting sensitivity of the adjusted unit and the sorting sensitivity of the reference unit based on the calculation result of step # 206, and determines whether or not the difference is equal to or less than a predetermined value (step #). 207). When the difference is not more than a predetermined value (step # 207: Yes), the operation parameter change process ends.

When the difference in sorting sensitivity is not less than or equal to a predetermined value (step # 207: No), the changing unit 7h determines whether or not the sorting sensitivity of the unit to be adjusted is smaller than the sorting sensitivity of the reference unit (step # 208).

When the sorting sensitivity of the adjusted unit is smaller than the sorting sensitivity of the reference unit (step # 203: Yes), the changing unit 7h raises the sorting threshold value of the adjusted unit (step # 209) to illuminate the lighting device 21. It is weakened (step # 210) and the sensitivity of the sensor 23 is lowered (step # 211).

When the sorting sensitivity of the adjusted unit is not smaller than the sorting sensitivity of the reference unit (step # 203: No), the changing unit 7h lowers the sorting threshold value of the adjusted unit (step # 212) to illuminate the lighting device 21. (Step # 213) to increase the sensitivity of the sensor 23 (step # 214).

After executing step # 211 or step # 214, step # 201 is executed again. That is, the operation parameter change process is executed until the difference between the selection sensitivity of the adjusted unit and the selection sensitivity of the reference unit becomes equal to or less than a predetermined value (step # 202: Yes or step # 207: Yes).

As described above, in the present embodiment, the change unit 7h gives priority to the change of the operation parameter of the transmission device 10 (steps # 204, 205) over the change of the operation parameter of the detection device 20 (step # 209-214). Do it.

[Sensitivity setting process]
The sensitivity setting process executed by the granular material inspection apparatus will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The sensitivity setting process is started by an operation input from the operator.

The control device 7 causes the operation display device 6 to display a screen prompting the operator to select and input the sensitivity to be adjusted (step # 301). On the screen, buttons with the character strings of "stink bug damage", "burnt", "shirata / milky white / fir", and "blue rice" are displayed as targets for selecting and inputting the sensitivity to be adjusted.

The control device 7 waits for an operation input from the operator to the operation display device 6 (step # 302). The control device 7 waits until there is a selection input (step # 302: No).

When the selection input of the sensitivity to be adjusted is received (step # 302: Yes), the control device 7 executes the test selection (step # 303). Specifically, the control device 7 operates the grain discharge device in response to the operation display device 6 receiving the operation input to start the test sorting from the operator, and the test sorting from the operator is completed. When the operation display device 6 accepts the operation input, the grain discharge device is stopped.

When step # 303 is completed, the control device 7 causes the operation display device 6 to display a screen prompting the operator to input the selection result of the test selection (step # 304). On the screen, a button with the character strings of "no problem", "many selection mistakes", and "poor yield" is displayed as a selection input target of the test selection result.

The control device 7 waits for an operation input from the operator to the operation display device 6 (steps # 305, # 306). The control device 7 waits until there is a selection input (step # 305: No, step # 306: No).

When "many sorting errors" or "poor yield" is selected and input as a result of the test sorting (step # 305: No, step # 306: Yes), the control device 7 selects and inputs the sensitivity adjustment range. The screen prompting the operator is displayed on the operation display device 6 (step # 307). On the screen, a button with the character strings "I want to reduce it a little" and "I want to reduce it considerably" is displayed as a target for selecting and inputting the sensitivity adjustment range.

The control device 7 waits for an operation input from the operator to the operation display device 6 (step # 308). The control device 7 waits until there is a selection input (step # 308: No).

Upon receiving the selection input of the sensitivity adjustment range (step # 308: Yes), the control device 7 changes the sensitivity of the defective product determination in the inspection unit 4, and displays a screen showing the changed sensitivity on the operation display device 6. (Step # 309).

Specifically, the control device 7 adjusts the input received in step # 301 based on the result of the test selection received in step # 305 and the adjustment range of the sensitivity received in step # 307. For sensitivity, change the sensitivity.

When the result of the test selection is "many selection errors", the control device 7 changes the sensitivity in the direction of increasing the sensitivity. If the result of the test selection is "poor yield", the control device 7 changes the sensitivity in the direction of weakening the sensitivity. The direction in which the sensitivity becomes stronger is the direction in which each threshold value is changed as follows. The direction in which the sensitivity is weakened is the opposite direction.
Lower 1st threshold SL1 or lower 2nd threshold SL2: high Lower 1st quantity threshold or lower 2nd quantity threshold: small Upper 1st threshold SU1 or upper 2nd threshold SU2: low Upper 1st quantity threshold or upper Second quantity threshold: small

When the sensitivity adjustment range is "want to be reduced a little", the control device 7 changes the threshold value described in the previous section by a predetermined amount (first predetermined amount). When the adjustment range of the sensitivity is "want to be considerably reduced", the control device 7 increases the threshold value described in the previous section to be larger than that in the case of "want to reduce a little" (a second predetermined amount larger than the first predetermined amount). )change.

When the sensitivity to be adjusted is "stink bug damage", the control device 7 changes the lower first threshold value SL1 and / or the lower first quantity threshold value for the front sensor 23A and the rear sensor 23B.

When the sensitivity to be adjusted is "discolored", the control device 7 changes the lower second threshold value SL2 and / or the lower second quantity threshold value for the front sensor 23A and the rear sensor 23B.

When the sensitivity to be adjusted is "shirata / milky white / fir", the control device 7 changes the lower first threshold value SL1 and / or the lower first quantity threshold value for the transmission sensor 23C.

When the sensitivity to be adjusted is "blue rice", the control device 7 changes the upper first threshold value SU1 and / or the upper first quantity threshold value for the transmission sensor 23C.

When step # 309 is completed, step # 303 is executed again.

When "no problem" is selected and input as a result of the test selection (step # 305: Yes), the control device 7 proposes the recommended sensitivity and displays a screen on the operation display device 6 to prompt the operator to select and input the subsequent processing. Display (step # 310). On the screen, the current sensitivity (sensitivity after change) is displayed as "recommended sensitivity", and a button with the character strings "redo" and "set to this sensitivity" as the target of selection input for subsequent processing. Is displayed.

The control device 7 waits for an operation input from the operator to the operation display device 6 (steps # 311 and # 312). The control device 7 waits until there is a selection input (step # 311: No, step # 312: No).

When the selection input of "Redo" is accepted (step # 311: Yes), step # 304 is executed again.

When the selection input of "Set to this sensitivity" is accepted (step # 312: Yes), the control device 7 operates a screen prompting the operator to select whether to end the processing or adjust another sensitivity. It is displayed on the display device 6 (step # 313). On the screen, buttons with the character strings "End" and "Adjust other sensitivities" are displayed as targets for selection input.

The control device 7 waits for an operation input from the operator to the operation display device 6 (steps # 314 and # 315). The control device 7 waits until there is a selection input (step # 314: No, step # 315: No).

When the selection input of "Adjust other sensitivities" is accepted (step # 314: Yes), step # 301 is executed again.

When the selection input of "End" is accepted (step # 315: Yes), the sensitivity setting process ends.

[Other embodiments]
(1) The granular material inspection device may include three or more inspection units 4.

(2) The changing unit 7h is configured to calculate the time average of the sorting sensitivity in a predetermined period for each of the reference unit and the adjusted unit, and change the operating parameters of the adjusted unit so that the difference between them becomes small. May be done. By using the calculated time average of the sorting sensitivity, the adverse effect due to the sudden or accidental change in the sorting sensitivity is suppressed. The "predetermined period" may be preset and stored in the storage unit 7f, or may be changed according to an operation input from the operator. The change unit 7h may be configured to calculate the time average of the selection sensitivity in a plurality of "predetermined periods".

(3) The changing unit 7h may be configured to change only the set transmission amount of the transmission device 10.

(4) The change unit 7h is configured to change at least one of the selection threshold value of each camera 22, the emission intensity of the lighting device 21, and the sensitivity of each sensor 23 without changing the set transmission amount of the transmission device 10. May be done.

(5) The amount of change of the operation parameter by the change unit 7h may be set in advance or may be determined each time according to the magnitude of the difference in sorting sensitivity.

(6) The change unit 7h may include a machine-learned neural network. For example, the neural network of the change unit 7h is machine-learned using the calculated selection sensitivity, the mode of changing the operation parameter, and the fluctuation amount of the selection sensitivity due to the change of the operation parameter as teacher data, and receives the input of the current selection sensitivity. It may be configured to output the change amount of the operation parameter.

(7) It is also possible that the inspection unit 4 is provided separately in a plurality of devices. For example, in an inspection system including a plurality of granular body inspection devices, the inspection unit 4 may be divided into a plurality of granular body inspection devices and arranged. The inspection unit 4 included in one granular inspection device may function as a reference unit, and the inspection unit 4 included in the other granular inspection device may function as an adjusted unit.

(8) The control device 7 may operate the notification device 8 to notify the operator that the change unit 7h has changed the operation parameter.

(9) The present invention can be applied to a granular body inspection device, a color sorter, an optical sorter, and the like provided with a plurality of inspection units. The present invention is also applicable to a plurality of granular material inspection devices (inspection systems) in which granules from one source are distributed and supplied.

[Third Embodiment]
In the third embodiment, a configuration different from the first embodiment and the second embodiment will be mainly described. The configuration common to the first embodiment and the second embodiment will be omitted here.

[Judgment of channel abnormality]
FIG. 15 shows a state in which the channel distribution of the front sensor 23A is normal. In the illustrated example, the granular material G3 is present in the detection region DU in the route R6, and the granular material G4 is present in the detection region DU in the route R9. When the granular material G3 is a defective product, an output change corresponding to the defective granular material appears in the portion corresponding to the channel CH6 in the output of the front sensor 23A.
Then, the quality determination unit 7a determines that the grain of the channel CH6 is a defective product, and injects air from the injection port S6 of the air blowing device 31. As a result, the granular material G3 is eliminated.

FIG. 16 shows a state in which the channel distribution of the front sensor 23A is abnormal. In the example of FIG. 16, pixels E to the left of the example of FIG. 15 are distributed to each channel. Similar to the example of FIG. 15, the granular material G3 is present in the detection region DU in the path R6, and the granular material G4 is present in the detection region DU in the path R9. When the granular material G3 is a defective product, an output change corresponding to the defective granular material appears at a position (pixel) corresponding to the path R9 in the output of the front sensor 23A.

However, in the example of FIG. 16, the pixels corresponding to the path R9 in the output of the front sensor 23A are distributed to both the channel CH6 and the channel CH7.

Then, the quality determination unit 7a may determine that both channels CH6 and CH7 are defective. In that case, since the quality determination unit 7a injects air from the injection ports S6 and S7 of the air blowing device 31, if there is a good quality granular material in the path R7, it may be excluded.

Further, the quality determination unit 7a may determine that the channel CH7 is a defective product instead of the channel CH6. In that case, since the quality determination unit 7a injects air from the injection port S7 of the air blowing device 31, the defective granular material G3 in the path R6 is not excluded.

In this way, if there is an abnormality in the channel distribution, there is a possibility that non-defective products will be unfairly excluded or defective products will not be properly excluded. Such an abnormality in channel distribution may occur when the positional relationship between the shooter 12 and the detection device 20 (camera 22, mirror 24, etc.) changes from the state at the time of shipment (state at the time of adjustment).

In the present embodiment, the abnormality of the channel distribution of each sensor 23 is determined by the abnormality determination unit 7c based on the detection result by the detection unit 7b. The determination of the abnormality of the channel distribution is performed based on the following idea. That is, since the granules are randomly sent from the shooter 12 to the inspection region IA, the probability of passing through the detection region DU at the same time in the adjacent route is low. Therefore, there is a low probability that one granule will straddle adjacent channels in the output of the sensor 23. However, as in the example of FIG. 16, if the channels are distributed so that the light from one path is incident on the pixels belonging to the two adjacent channels, one grain is formed on the adjacent channels in the output of the sensor 23. The body is straddling. In other words, at the same time, the output change due to the granules appears in the adjacent channels in the output of the sensor 23.

In the example of FIG. 16, when the granular material G3 of the path R6 passes through the detection region DU, the granular material G3 straddles the adjacent channels CH6 and CH7. Then, at the same time, the output change due to the granular material G3 appears on the adjacent channels CH6 and CH7 in the output of the front sensor 23A. When the granular material G4 of the path R9 passes through the detection region DU, the granular material G4 straddles the adjacent channels CH9 and CH10. Then, in the output of the front sensor 23A, the output change due to the granular material G4 appears at the same time on the adjacent channels CH9 and CH10.

The operation of the control device 7 for detecting the abnormality of the channel distribution described above will be described. The abnormality determination unit 7c determines that an abnormality has occurred when it detects that one granular body straddles an adjacent channel in the output of the sensor 23. Specifically, the detection unit 7b detects a decrease in light intensity due to the granules for each of a plurality of channels in the output of the sensor 23.
Then, the abnormality determination unit 7c determines that an abnormality has occurred when the detection unit 7b simultaneously detects a decrease in light intensity in an adjacent channel.

In addition, the detection unit 7b detects in the path corresponding to a certain channel in the output of the sensor 23 when there is a pixel whose output is smaller than the granular body detection threshold SH (FIG. 6). Detects the presence of granules in the region DU.

This will be described with the example of FIG. In the state of FIG. 16, the detection unit 7b detects a decrease in light intensity due to the granules in channels CH6, CH7, CH9, and CH10 of the front sensor 23A (detection result: Yes). Since the detection unit 7b simultaneously detects a decrease in light intensity in adjacent channels (channels CH6, CH7, and channels CH9, CH10), the abnormality determination unit 7c determines that an abnormality in channel distribution has occurred.

The abnormality determination unit 7c may determine the abnormality in the following form. The above-mentioned form of determination (form 1) and the other forms of determination described below (forms 2 and 3) may be used in combination or in combination.

(Form 2) The abnormality determination unit 7c determines that an abnormality has occurred when the detection unit 7b detects a decrease in light intensity simultaneously and over time in an adjacent channel. In other words, when the detection unit 7b detects that the light intensity is reduced due to the granules at the same time, continues, and ends at the same time in the adjacent channels, the abnormality determination unit 7c has generated an abnormality. Is determined.

(Form 3) The abnormality determination unit 7c determines that an abnormality has occurred when a state in which the detection unit 7b simultaneously detects a decrease in light intensity in adjacent channels occurs in a plurality of sets of adjacent channels. .. In other words, a state in which the light intensity is lowered by the granules simultaneously occurs in one set of adjacent channels, and a state in which the light intensity is lowered by the granules simultaneously occurs in another set of adjacent channels. When the detection unit 7b detects that the error has occurred, the abnormality determination unit 7c determines that an abnormality has occurred.

(Form 4) The abnormality determination unit 7c determines that an abnormality has occurred when the decrease in light intensity due to the granules is simultaneously detected in consecutive pixels belonging to adjacent channels. The form of this determination will be described with reference to FIG.

In the state shown in FIG. 17, the light from the granular material G3 passing through the path R6 is incident on the pixels E145-E159 of the front sensor 23A, and the decrease in the light intensity due to the granular material G3 appears in the output of the front sensor 23A. .. Here, in the illustrated example, the pixels up to the pixel E154 are distributed to the channel CH6, and the pixels after the pixel E155 are distributed to the channel CH7. Since the light from the path R6 is incident on the different channels CH6 and CH7, the channel distribution abnormality has occurred. Therefore, it is possible to determine that an abnormality in channel distribution has occurred based on the fact that the decrease in light intensity due to the granular material G3 is simultaneously detected in the continuous pixels E145-159 belonging to the adjacent channels CH6 and CH7. It becomes.

(Form 5) The abnormality determination unit 7c determines that an abnormality has occurred when the decrease in light intensity due to the granules is detected simultaneously and temporally in consecutive pixels belonging to adjacent channels. In other words, when the detection unit 7b detects that the decrease in light intensity due to the granules simultaneously occurs in consecutive pixels belonging to adjacent channels, continues, and ends at the same time, as shown in FIG. 17 described above. , The abnormality determination unit 7c determines that an abnormality has occurred.

(Form 6) The abnormality determination unit 7c identifies the detection pixels that are the pixels in which the decrease in light intensity due to the granules is detected, and determines the number of the detection pixels that are the smaller of the detection pixels belonging to different channels. The ratio is calculated by dividing by the total number, and when the ratio exceeds a predetermined threshold, it is determined that an abnormality has occurred. The form of this determination will be described with reference to FIG.

As described above, in the state shown in FIG. 17, the light from the granular material G3 passing through the path R6 is incident on the pixels E145-E159 of the front sensor 23A, and the decrease in the light intensity due to the granular material G3 is the output of the front sensor 23A. Appears in. That is, the pixels E145-E159 are the detection pixels DE.
The total number of detected pixels is 15.

The detection pixel (E145-E154) belonging to the channel CH6 is referred to as a detection pixel DE6. The number of detection pixels DE6 is 10.

The detection pixel (E155-E159) belonging to the channel CH7 is referred to as a detection pixel DE7. The number of detection pixels DE7 is 5.

Of the detection pixels DE belonging to channels CH6 and CH7, the smaller one is the detection pixel DE7, and the number is 5.

The abnormality determination unit 7c divides "5", which is the number of detection pixels DE7, by "15", which is the total number of detection pixels DE, to calculate the ratio "1/3", and the ratio is a predetermined threshold value (for example, 1). If it exceeds / 8), it is determined that an abnormality has occurred. The greater the degree to which the granules protrude from the channel corresponding to the passage through which the granules pass, the larger the "ratio" calculated by the abnormality determination unit 7c.

The detection unit 7b and the abnormality determination unit 7c execute the same processing for the outputs of the rear sensor 23B and the transmission sensor 23C, and determine the occurrence of an abnormality in the channel distribution.

The abnormality determination by the abnormality determination unit 7c described above determines the presence or absence of an abnormality in one sensor 23. On the other hand, the abnormality determination unit 7d between the facing sensors determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the two sensors 23 at the facing positions. The abnormality determination unit 7e between the upper and lower sensors determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the two sensors 23 located in the upper and lower positions.

In the present embodiment, the front sensor 23A detects the light emitted from the inspection area IA to the Y1 side (an example of the first direction). The rear sensor 23B detects the light emitted from the inspection area IA to the Y2 side (an example of the second direction). That is, the front sensor 23A corresponds to the "first sensor" described in the claims, and the rear sensor 23B corresponds to the "second sensor".

When the abnormality determination unit 7c determines that the front sensor 23A (an example of the first sensor) and the rear sensor 23B (an example of the second sensor) have an abnormality at about the same time, the abnormality determination unit 7d between the facing sensors determines that an abnormality has occurred. Judge that an abnormality has occurred. Such an abnormality can occur, for example, when the frame supporting the two sensors (front sensor 23A and rear sensor 23B) (for example, the frame of the detection device 20) is misaligned. The expression "opposed sensor" does not mean that the target is limited to the two sensors 23 whose light receiving surfaces face each other.

In the present embodiment, the front sensor 23A (and the rear sensor 23B) detects the light from the detection area DU which is the upper part in the inspection area IA. The transmission sensor 23C detects light from the detection region DL, which is the lower part of the inspection region IA. That is, the front sensor 23A and the rear sensor 23B correspond to the "upper sensor" described in the claims, and the transmission sensor 23C corresponds to the "lower sensor".

In the abnormality determination unit 7e between the upper and lower sensors, one granular body straddles an abnormality channel set in which the abnormality determination unit 7c is an adjacent channel in the output of the front sensor 23A or the rear sensor 23B (an example of the upper sensor). When the abnormality determination unit 7c detects that one granular body straddles the channel corresponding to the abnormality channel set in the output of the transmission sensor 23C (an example of the lower sensor), an abnormality occurs. Judge that it has occurred.

For example, as in the example of FIG. 17, the abnormality determination unit 7c detects that one granular body G3 straddles the adjacent channels CH6 and CH7 (referred to as an abnormal channel set) in the output of the front sensor 23A. Suppose you did. The channel corresponding to the abnormal channel set in the output of the transmission sensor 23C is the channel corresponding to the paths R6 and R7 in the transmission sensor 23C (referred to as the corresponding channel set). Then, when the abnormality determination unit 7c detects that one granular body (granular body G3) straddles the corresponding channel set of the transmission sensor 23C after the abnormality is detected in the abnormal channel set, the upper and lower sensors are used with each other. The abnormality determination unit 7e determines that an abnormality has occurred. Such an abnormality occurs, for example, when the frame supporting the two sensors (front sensor 23A and transmission sensor 23C, or rear sensor 23B and transmission sensor 23C) (for example, the frame of the detection device 20) is misaligned. sell. The expression "upper and lower sensors" does not mean that the target is limited to the two sensors 23 located above and below.

[Abnormality detection processing]
The abnormality detection process executed by the granular material inspection apparatus will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The abnormality detection process is repeatedly executed during the operation of the granular material inspection device.

The control device 7 acquires an output from each sensor 23 (step # 401).

The abnormality determination unit 7c determines whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the channel distribution based on the output of each sensor 23 acquired in step # 401 (step # 402).

When it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the channel distribution (step # 402: Yes), the abnormality determination unit 7c activates the notification device 8 (step # 403).

After the execution of step # 403, the facing sensor abnormality determination unit 7d determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the channel distribution between the two sensors based on the determination result of the abnormality determination unit 7c regarding the outputs of the front sensor 23A and the rear sensor 23B. (Step # 404).

When it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the channel distribution between the two sensors (step # 404: Yes), the abnormality determination unit 7c activates the notification device 8 (step # 405).

After the execution of step # 405, the abnormality determination unit 7e between the upper and lower sensors has an abnormality in the channel distribution between the sensors based on the determination result of the abnormality determination unit 7c regarding the outputs of the front sensor 23A, the rear sensor 23B, and the transmission sensor 23C. (Step # 406).

When it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the channel distribution between the sensors (step # 406: Yes), the abnormality determination unit 7c activates the notification device 8 (step # 407).

When it is determined that no abnormality has occurred in the channel distribution (step # 402: No), and after the execution of step # 407, the abnormality detection process ends.

[Other embodiments]
(1) The abnormality determination unit 7c may be configured to determine that an abnormality has occurred when it detects that one granular body straddles an adjacent channel in the output of the sensor 23 a plurality of times. .. The same applies to the abnormality determination unit 7d between the facing sensors and the abnormality determination unit 7e between the upper and lower sensors.

(2) The abnormality determination unit 7c may be configured to operate the notification device 8 when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred a plurality of times. The same applies to the abnormality determination unit 7d between the facing sensors and the abnormality determination unit 7e between the upper and lower sensors.

(3) The mode of notification performed by the notification device 8 (volume or tone of the buzzer or speaker, lamp color, wording displayed on the information display device, etc.) is the operation by the abnormality determination unit 7c, the abnormality determination unit 7d between the facing sensors. It may be different or the same between the operation by the operation by the upper and lower sensors and the operation by the abnormality determination unit 7e between the upper and lower sensors. The mode of notification performed by the notification device 8 may be different or the same depending on the mode of determination (form 1-6) performed by the abnormality determination unit 7c.

(4) The control device 7 stops the operation of the granular body inspection device in response to the determination by the abnormality determination unit 7c, the abnormality determination unit 7d between the facing sensors, and the abnormality determination unit 7e between the upper and lower sensors that an abnormality has occurred. Alternatively, the channel distribution may be changed so that the abnormality of the channel distribution is eliminated.

(5) The number and arrangement of the sensors 23 are not limited to the above examples.

(6) The present invention can be applied to an apparatus for inspecting granules (granular body inspection apparatus, color sorter, optical sorter, etc.).

[Fourth Embodiment]
In the fourth embodiment, a configuration different from that of the first to third embodiments will be mainly described. The configuration common to the first to third embodiments will be omitted here.

[Storage hopper]
The storage hopper 3 is a box-shaped member having a hollow inside. The storage hopper 3 includes an inlet 61, a left outlet 62L, and a right outlet 62R.

The inlet 61 is an opening that is arranged above the storage hopper 3 and into which granules are charged. The inlet 61 is a rectangular opening formed in the upper part of the rear part of the storage hopper 3. Granules are charged into the storage hopper 3 by the first transport conveyor 2 through the inlet 61.

The

outlets

62L and 62R are openings arranged at the lower part (lower end) of the storage hopper 3 and allowing the granular material to flow out to the inspection unit 4. The granular material inside the storage hopper 3 is supplied from the outlet 62L to the left inspection unit 4L, and is supplied from the outlet 62R to the right inspection unit 4R. As shown in FIG. 19, the outlet 62L is positioned so as to overlap the upward protrusion 11b of the trough 11a of the left inspection unit 4L in a plan view. The outlet 62R is located at a position where it overlaps with the upward protrusion 11b of the trough 11a of the right inspection unit 4R in a plan view.

The storage hopper 3 is provided with a branch member 71 that branches the internal space corresponding to the left and right inspection units 4. The branch member 71 constitutes a part of the bottom wall of the storage hopper 3. As shown in FIG. 20, the branch member 71 extends from the front portion to the rear portion of the storage hopper 3. The left exit 62L is located to the left of the branch member 71, and the right exit 62R is located to the right of the branch member 71.

The storage hopper 3 is provided with a lower constriction portion 3a having a lower constriction shape connected to the

outlets

62L and 62R. The side wall 3b of the lower constriction 3a is the lower rear wall of the storage hopper 3. As shown in FIG. 20, the side wall 3b is arranged so that its normal line faces upward and diagonally forward.

The storage hopper 3 includes a front wall member 72 (an example of a wall member) extending in the vertical direction, an inspection opening 72a formed in the front wall member 72, and a closing member 73 for closing the inspection opening 72a. ing. The closing member 73 is slidable in the vertical direction with respect to the front wall member 72, and is removable from the front wall member 72.

The storage hopper 3 includes transparent left and

right monitoring windows

72b and 72c provided on the front wall member 72, and closing

members

74 and 75 that close the monitoring

windows

72b and 72c.

The granules introduced from the inlet 61 by the first transport conveyor 2 flow downward from the left outlet 62L or the right outlet 62R and fall to the trough 11a. When the delivery amount by the vibration feeder 11 is smaller than the input amount by the first transport conveyor 2, the granular material is deposited on the trough 11a and is stored inside the storage hopper 3.

[Adjustment mechanism]
In the present embodiment, the storage hopper 3 is provided with the adjustment mechanism AD. The adjusting mechanism AD adjusts the supply amount of the granular material to the left and right inspection units 4. The adjustment mechanism AD includes a guide member 80.

The guide member 80 is a triangular columnar member, and is arranged inside the storage hopper 3 in a posture in which the central axis is along the vertical direction and the ridge line 80a of 1 faces the inlet 61. The guide member 80 is supported by the closing member 73 in a state where it can slide in the left-right direction. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 21, an elongated hole 73a extending in the left-right direction is formed in the closing member 73.
A bolt 81 for attaching the guide member 80 to the closing member 73 is inserted through the elongated hole 73a.

In the present embodiment, the movement path RT of the granules extends forward or diagonally downward from the first transport conveyor 2 as shown in FIG. The guide member 80 is arranged on the movement path RT of the granules charged from the first transport conveyor 2. Therefore, the granules that collide with the guide member 80 are scattered to the left or right. That is, the granules are distributed to the left and

right outlets

62L and 62R by the guide member 80.

Further, the guide member 80 can slide in the left-right direction. In other words, the guide member 80 can be repositioned in the direction intersecting the movement path RT of the granular body. Positioning the guide member 80 to the left leads more granules to the right exit 62R. Therefore, the amount of granules supplied from the storage hopper 3 to the right inspection unit 4R increases, and the amount of granules supplied from the storage hopper 3 to the left inspection unit 4L decreases. Positioning the guide member 80 to the right gives the opposite result. In this way, the supply amount of the granular material to the left and right inspection units 4 can be adjusted by the adjusting mechanism AD.

As shown in FIG. 20, the guide member 80 is located below the uppermost end 2a of the first transport conveyor 2. The uppermost end 2a is the position of the upper end of the bucket 2b when the bucket 2b of the first transport conveyor 2 is at the highest position.

As shown in FIG. 20, the guide member 80 is located above the branch member 71. Specifically, the entire guide member 80 is located above the upper end of the branch member 71.

As shown in FIG. 20, the lower end of the guide member 80 is located below the lower end of the inlet 61. The upper end of the guide member 80 is located above the lower end of the inlet 61.

In the present embodiment, the closing member 73 can be removed from the storage hopper 3 with the guide member 80 attached. Therefore, the internal maintenance of the adjustment mechanism AD and the storage hopper 3 can be easily performed.

Further, in the present embodiment, the inside of the storage hopper 3 can be visually recognized from the monitoring

windows

72b and 72c. Therefore, the position of the guide member 80 can be adjusted while checking the outflow state of the granular material to the left and

right outlets

62L and 62R from the monitoring

windows

72b and 72c.

[Overflow outlet and cover member]
The storage hopper 3 includes an overflow discharge port 63 and a cover member 90.

The overflow discharge port 63 is a trapezoidal opening formed on the side wall 3b of the lower constriction portion 3a. The granules stored in the storage hopper 3 can flow out to the outside of the storage hopper 3 through the overflow discharge port 63. As shown in FIG. 20, the overflow outlet 63 is arranged below the inlet 61 of the storage hopper 3 and above the

outlets

62L and 62R.

The cover member 90 is a plate-shaped member that covers the overflow discharge port 63 from above. The rear end portion of the cover member 90 is supported by the side wall 3b of the lower constriction portion 3a. The cover member 90 extends forward from the side wall 3b.

The upper surface of the cover member 90 includes

inclined surfaces

90a and 90b that incline diagonally downward. In the present embodiment, the inclination angles θ (FIG. 22) of the

inclined surfaces

90a and 90b with respect to the horizontal plane are 35 degrees. It is preferable that the inclination angle θ is 35 degrees or more.

The cover member 90 is provided below the inlet 61 of the storage hopper 3 and above the overflow discharge port 63. That is, the cover member 90 is arranged between the inlet 61 and the overflow outlet 63. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 20, the upper end of the cover member 90 and the lower end of the inlet 61 are located at substantially the same height.

As shown in FIG. 20, the cover member 90 is arranged on the movement path RT of the granules charged from the inlet 61. The granules introduced from the inlet 61 come into contact with the cover member 90, are guided by the

inclined surfaces

90a and 90b, and flow down to the left and right. Therefore, it is suppressed that the granules introduced from the inlet 61 directly flow into the overflow discharge port 63.

When the upper surface of the granules stored inside the storage hopper 3 is higher than the lower end of the overflow discharge port 63, the granules flow into the overflow discharge port 63. That is, the storage hopper 3 is configured so that the granules stored in the storage hopper 3 can flow into the overflow discharge port 63 below the cover member 90.

As shown in FIG. 22, the width of the overflow discharge port 63 and the width of the cover member 90 are almost the same. Specifically, the width of the lower end (lower side of the trapezoid) of the overflow discharge port 63 and the width of the cover member 90 are substantially the same.

[Other embodiments]
(1) The form of the adjustment mechanism AD is not limited to the above example. The adjusting mechanism AD may include a member that is moved or operated by an actuator.

(2) The shape, number, and position of the guide members 80 are not limited to the above examples. Further, the mechanism for making the guide member 80 movable and the support mechanism for the guide member 80 are not limited to the above examples.

(3) A handle capable of operating the guide member 80 from the outside of the storage hopper 3 may be provided in the storage hopper 3.

(4) The present invention can be applied to an apparatus provided with a plurality of inspection units (granular body inspection apparatus, color sorter, optical sorter, etc.).

[Fifth Embodiment]
In the fifth embodiment, a configuration different from that of the first to fourth embodiments will be mainly described. The configuration common to the first to fourth embodiments will be omitted here.

As shown in FIG. 23, the front end of the cover member 90 and the front end of the overflow discharge port 63 coincide with each other in a plan view. Therefore, it is effectively suppressed that the granules introduced from the inlet 61 directly enter the overflow discharge port 63. The front end of the cover member 90 may be located in front of the front end of the overflow outlet 63. The movement path RT of the granules in the storage hopper 3 changes depending on the shape of the storage hopper 3 and the position and shape of the inlet 61. Depending on the movement path RT of the granules, the front end of the cover member 90 may be located after the front end of the overflow outlet 64. Even in this case, the presence of the cover member 90 prevents the granules introduced from the inlet 61 from directly entering the overflow discharge port 63.

[Modification example]
The cover member 90 may have the shape shown in FIG. 24. In the illustrated example, the cover member 90 extends diagonally forward and downward from the side wall 3b. The lower end of the front end portion of the cover member 90 is located below the upper end of the overflow discharge port 63.

The cover member 90 may have the shape shown in FIG. 25. In the illustrated example, the cover member 90 extends forward from the side wall 3b to the front wall member 72. The rear end portion of the cover member 90 is supported by the side wall 3b. The front end of the cover member 90 is supported by the front wall member 72. Therefore, the rigidity of the cover member 90 is higher than that of the above example, and the deformation of the cover member 90 due to an external force is suppressed.

[Other embodiments]
(1) The shape, number, position, and support mode of the cover member 90 are not limited to the above examples.

(2) The shape, number, and position of the overflow outlet 63 are not limited to the above examples. When the storage hopper 3 includes a plurality of overflow discharge ports 64, the cover member 90 may be provided only on a part of the overflow discharge ports 63.

(3) In the above-described embodiment, the storage hopper 3 may not be provided with the adjusting mechanism AD (guide member 80).

(4) The adjustment mechanism AD (guide member 80) is not shown in FIGS. 24 and 25. However, both the cover member 90 and the adjusting mechanism AD (guide member 80) according to the modified example may be provided in the storage hopper 3.

(5) The present invention can be applied to an apparatus provided with a storage apparatus (granular body inspection apparatus, color sorter, optical sorter, etc.).

[Sixth Embodiment]
The elevator 120 for transporting granules according to the present invention will be described. As shown in FIG. 26, the elevator 120 is provided in, for example, the sorter 110. The elevator 120 for transporting granules according to the present invention is not limited to the one provided in the sorting machine 110, and may be provided in a rice milling machine, a huller, or the like.

The sorter 110 is provided inside the apparatus main body 111 and optically measures the granular body R (see FIG. 28) (for example, the granular body R is recognized as an image by transmitted light or reflected light) to obtain normal grains. It has a selection processing unit (not shown) for selecting the granular material R.

As shown in FIG. 26, when the elevator 120 is provided in the sorter 110, the granules R such as brown rice and rice grains charged in the charging hopper 112 provided on the back side are provided in the upper part of the sorter 110. It is used as a supply elevator 120A to be transported (transferred upward) to the storage hopper 113, and is granular in order to discharge the granular body R of normal grains after being processed by the selection processing unit from the upper part of the sorting machine 110. It is used as a discharge elevator 120B that transfers the body R upward.

As shown in FIG. 27, the elevator 120 is provided with an input port 121, which is an entrance of the granular body R, on one lower side surface of the main body case 122. When the elevator 120 is used as the supply elevator 120A, the loading port 121 is provided with a loading hopper 112 for loading the granular material R into the main body case 122.

The elevator 120 is provided with a discharge port 123, which is an outlet for the granular material R, on the upper and other side surfaces of the main body case 122. The discharge port 123 is provided with a discharge unit 124 for discharging the granular material R from the inside of the main body case 122.

The elevator 120 is mounted between the upper pulley 125 provided at the upper end of the main body case 122 extending in the vertical direction, the lower pulley 126 provided at the lower end of the main body case 122, and the upper pulley 125 and the lower pulley 126. It comprises a belt 127 to be passed and a plurality of buckets 128 attached to the outside of the belt 127 at predetermined intervals.

In the elevator 120, the upper pulley 125 is rotated by the motor 129 to rotate and drive the belt 127, so that the bucket 128 moves up and down together with the belt 127. When the bucket 128 moves up and down, the granular material R charged through the charging port 121 is conveyed to the upper part of the main body case 122 and discharged from the discharging port 123.

As shown in FIGS. 28 and 29, the back surface portion 128a of the bucket 128 that conveys the granular material R is connected to the outside of the belt 127. The bucket 128 receives the granular material R from the opening edge portion 128b formed on the opposite side of the back surface portion 128a, and holds the received granular material R at the bottom portion 128c provided in series with the opening edge portion 128b. The bottom 128c, which is the holding portion of the granular material R, is a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the granular material R enters the bucket 128 (the direction S in which the granular material R enters the bucket 128) when the granular material R is received. Is formed in.

As shown in FIGS. 27 to 30, the elevator 120 has a scraper bucket 130 (an example of a “scraper”) in which a scraper member 131 is attached to a part of the buckets 128 among the plurality of buckets 128. Two scraper buckets 130 are attached to the outside of the belt 127 at predetermined intervals. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 27, when one scraper bucket 130 is in the lowermost position of the main body case 122, the other scraper bucket 130 is in the uppermost position of the main body case 122. A pair of scraper buckets 130 are arranged at positions facing each other. The elevator 120 is provided with two scraper buckets 130, but the present invention is not limited to this, and only one or three or more scraper buckets 130 may be provided.

The scraper bucket 130 is composed of a scraper member 131 for scooping up the granular material R staying in the main body case 122, and a bucket member 132 (an example of a “holding member”) that holds the scraper member 131 against the belt 127. Has been done.

The scraper member 131 is in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the granular material R enters the scraper bucket 130 (direction S in which the granular material R enters the scraper bucket 130) when the granular material R is scooped up by the scraper bucket 130. Is formed in.

As shown in FIG. 28, the elevator 120 has a predetermined gap 122c formed between the opening edge portion 128b of the bucket 128 and the bottom surface 122a and the side surface 122b of the main body case 122, and the opening edge portion of the bucket 128 is formed. The granular material R is likely to stay in the gap 122c formed between the portion 128b and the bottom surface 122a of the main body case 122. Therefore, in the elevator 120, by providing the scraper bucket 130 in which the scraper member 131 is attached to a part of the buckets 128 among the plurality of buckets 128, the granular body R staying in the bottom surface 122a of the main body case 122 is removed from the scraper member 131. The granules R that have been scooped up and stagnated can be efficiently recovered.

The scraper member 131 is attached to the bucket member 132 so that its tip is in non-contact with the bottom surface 122a and the side surface 122b of the main body case 122 and protrudes from the opening edge portion 128b of the bucket 128. That is, the scraper member 131 is attached to the bucket member 132 so that its tip passes through a predetermined gap 122c formed between the opening edge portion 128b of the bucket 128 and the bottom surface 122a and the side surface 122b of the main body case 122. Has been done.

The bucket member 132 has a back surface portion 132a connected to the outside of the belt 127, an opening edge portion 132b for holding the scraper member 131, and side surface portions 132c and 32d fixed to the back surface portion 132a and holding the opening edge portion 132b. It is composed of. The bucket member 132 has a rectangular opening 132e (an example of a “passable portion”) formed by a combination of the back surface portion 132a, the opening edge portion 132b, and the side surface portions 132c, 32d.

As shown in FIGS. 28 and 30, the opening 132e of the bucket member 132 is provided so as to be connected to the opening edge 132b. The opening 132e is a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the granular material R enters the scraper bucket 130 (direction S in which the granular material R enters the scraper bucket 130) when the granular material R is scooped up by the scraper bucket 130. Is formed in. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 29, when the granular material R is scooped up by the scraper bucket 130, the granular material R passes through the opening 132e and is discharged from the scraper bucket 130.

As shown in FIG. 30, the opening 132e is provided in the scraper bucket 130 on the side close to the belt 127 (the side opposite to the side on which the scraper member 131 is provided). By providing the opening 132e on the side closer to the belt 127, the granular material R discharged from the scraper bucket 130 can be easily collected by the subsequent bucket 128.

Next, the operation of the elevator 120 will be described.

The granular body R charged from the charging port 121 is scooped up at the lower part of the main body case 122 by the bucket 128 that moves downward, and is held at the bottom 128c. The granular body R held in the bottom portion 128c is conveyed to the upper part of the main body case 122 by the bucket 128 that moves upward, and is discharged from the discharge port 123. As described above, most of the granular material R charged from the charging port 121 is sufficiently conveyed by the bucket 128 and discharged from the discharging port 123, but the granular material R that cannot be scooped up by the bucket 128 is the main body case 122. It will stay in the lower part (gap 122c). Therefore, as shown in FIG. 28, the granular body R staying in the gap 122c is scooped up by the scraper member 131 of the scraper bucket 130. As shown in FIG. 29, the scooped granular material R is once received by the opening edge portion 132b connected to the scraper member 131, but is continuously provided to the opening edge portion 132b by the ascending movement of the scraper bucket 130. It is discharged to the outside of the scraper bucket 130 through the opening 132e. That is, the scraper bucket 130 has a function of scooping up the granular material R from the lower part of the main body case 122, but does not have a function of holding and transporting the granular material R. The granular material R discharged to the outside of the scraper bucket 130 is collected by the subsequent bucket 128 and transported to the upper part of the main body case 122. The granular material R that was not collected by the subsequent bucket 128 will stay in the lower part (gap 122c) of the main body case 122 again, but will be collected by the subsequent bucket 128 by scooping up again by the other scraper bucket 130. Will be done.

Here, when the scraper bucket 130 is located at the lower part of the main body case 122 (when the scraper member 131 is located near the lowermost part of the main body case 122) at the start of operation of the elevator 120, the scraper bucket 130 moves up. As a result, the granular material R is scooped up by the scraper member 131, and the granular material R is received by the scraper member 131 and the opening end portion 130b. After that, the granular material R passes through the opening portion 132e and is scraped. Since it is discharged to the outside of the bucket 130, a large load is not applied to the scraper bucket 130 itself. Therefore, a stronger load than during steady operation is not generated on the motor 129 (motor 129 that rotationally drives the upper pulley 125) that moves the scraper bucket 130 up and down.

As described above, in the elevator 120 and the scraper bucket 130 for transporting the granular material, the granular material R scooped up by the scraper bucket 130 passes through the opening 132e of the scraper bucket 130 at the start of the operation of the elevator 120. The load applied to the scraper bucket 130 itself at the start of operation of the elevator 120 is reduced. Therefore, the load on the motor 129 at the start of operation of the elevator 120 can be reduced, and the capacity of the motor 129 used can be reduced. Further, by reducing the load applied to the scraper bucket 130 itself at the start of operation of the elevator 120, the belt 127 holding the scraper bucket 130 is less likely to slip with respect to the upper pulley 125, and the wear of the belt 127 is suppressed. be able to.

In the present embodiment, the opening 132e of the scraper bucket 130, which is a passable portion of the granular body R, is formed by combining the back surface portion 132a, the opening edge portion 132b, and the respective edges of the side surface portions 132c and 32d. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a part of the opening 132e may be closed (for example, the side half of the opening 132e, the side half of the side portion 132d, or the opening). An opening through which the granular material R can pass is provided only in the central portion of 132e).

Further, in the present embodiment, the bucket member 132 is provided with a passable portion (opening 132e) of the granular material R in the scraper bucket 130, but the present invention is not limited to this, and as shown in FIG. The scraper member 131 may be provided with a passable portion of the granular material R in the scraper bucket 130.

In this case, as shown in FIG. 31A, a right notch portion in which one side (right side in FIG. 31A) is cut out in the scraper member 131 provided in one of the scraper buckets 130 of the pair of scraper buckets 130. Form 131e (an example of "passable portion of granular material"). Further, as shown in FIG. 31B, the left side notch 131f having the other side (left side in FIG. 31B) cut out from the scraper member 131 provided in the other scraper bucket 130 of the pair of scraper buckets 130. (An example of "passable part of granular material") is formed.

When the scraper member 131 is provided with the right notch 131e or the left notch 131f, the scraper bucket 130 rises when the scraper bucket 130 is located at the lower part of the main body case 122 at the start of operation of the elevator 120. By moving, the granular material R is scooped up by the scraper member 131, and the granular material R is received by the scraper member 131 and the opening end portion 130b. Since the granular body R is not scooped up in the portion 131f, the load applied to the scraper bucket 130 itself is smaller than in the case where the granular body R is scooped up by the entire scraper member 131.

Further, when the scraper member 131 is provided with the right notch portion 131e or the left notch portion 131f, the granular body R scooped up by the scraper member 131 can be held by the bottom portion 132f, so that the granular body R can be held in the scraper bucket 130. It is possible to reduce the load applied to the scraper bucket 130 itself while having both the function of scooping up R and the function of holding and transporting the granular material R.

Further, when the scraper member 131 is provided with the right notch portion 131e or the left notch portion 131f, the granular body R which cannot be completely scooped up by the scraper bucket 130 having the right notch portion 131e is removed from the left notch portion 131f. Since it can be scooped up by the scraper bucket 130 having the above, the granular body R staying in the gap 122c of the main body case 122 can be sufficiently scooped up.

Further, in the present embodiment, the scraper for scooping up the granular material R staying in the main body case 122 is the scraper bucket 130 composed of the scraper member 131 and the bucket member 132, but the scraper is limited to this. However, as shown in FIG. 32, the scraper 130A composed of the scraper member 131 and the holding member 131A that holds the scraper member 131 against the belt 127 may be used as the scraper. In this case, passable portions 131B through which the granular material R scooped up by the scraper member 131 can pass are formed on both sides of the holding member 131A.

In the scraper 130A of FIG. 32, the holding member 131A is provided at the center in the longitudinal direction of the scraper member 131, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the two holding members 131A are provided in the longitudinal direction of the scraper member 131. A passable portion 131B may be formed between the two holding members 131A by arranging them on both sides of the above.

Further, in the scraper 130A of FIG. 32, the scraper member 131 is held by the holding member 131A, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the scraper member 131 itself may be directly attached to the belt 127 as the scraper. do not have. In this case, a passable portion through which the granular material R can pass is formed on the scraper member 131 itself.

2: First transport conveyor (bucket conveyor)
2a: Top end 3: Storage hopper (storage device)
3a: Lower constriction 3b: Side wall 4: Inspection unit 4L: Left inspection unit (reference unit)
4R: Right inspection unit (adjusted unit)
7a: Good / bad judgment unit 7b: Detection unit 7c: Abnormality determination unit 7d: Opposite sensor abnormality determination unit 7e: Upper and lower sensor abnormality determination unit 7f: Storage unit 7h: Change unit 7j: Exclusion control unit 7k: Position abnormality determination unit 71 : Branch member 72a: Inspection opening 73: Closing member 8: Notification device 10: Transmission device 20: Detection device 21: Lighting device 23: Sensor 23A: Front sensor (first sensor, upper sensor)
23B: Rear sensor (second sensor, upper sensor)
23C: Transmission sensor (lower sensor)
25: Lens device 30: Exclusion device 50: Member 61: Inlet 62L: Outlet 62R: Outlet 63: Overflow outlet 80: Guide member 90: Cover member 90a: Inclined surface 90b: Inclined surface AD: Adjustment mechanism CH1: Channel DE: Detection pixel DL: Detection area DU: Detection area E: Pixel F: Figure F1: Triangle F1a: Part (first part)
F2: Rectangle F2a: Part (second part)
F2b: Site (second site)
G: Granules G1: Granules G2: Granules IA: Inspection area RT: Movement path 120: Elevator for transporting granules 122: Main body case 125: Upper pulley 126: Lower pulley 127: Belt 128: Bucket 130: Scraper bucket (Scraper)
132e: Opening (passable part)
R: Granules

Claims

Multiple inspection units that inspect granules and detect defective products,
The difference between the sorting sensitivity, which is the number of defective products detected per unit time in the reference unit, which is one of the plurality of inspection units, and the sorting sensitivity in the adjusted unit, which is the remaining inspection unit. A granular body inspection device including a changing unit that changes the operating parameters of the unit to be adjusted so as to be smaller.
The inspection unit includes a sending device that sends the granules to the inspection area, a sensor that detects light from the inspection area, and a detection device that detects defective products of the granules based on the output of the sensor. Equipped with
The sending device controls the sending amount of the granules based on the set sending amount as the operation parameter of the adjusted unit.
The granular body inspection apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the changing unit increases the set delivery amount in the adjusted unit when the sorting sensitivity in the adjusted unit is smaller than the sorting sensitivity in the reference unit.
The granular body inspection device according to claim 2, wherein the changing unit reduces the set transmission amount in the adjusted unit when the sorting sensitivity in the adjusted unit is larger than the sorting sensitivity in the reference unit.
The inspection unit includes a sending device that sends the granules to the inspection area, a sensor that detects light from the inspection area, and a detection device that detects defective products of the granules based on the output of the sensor. Equipped with
The detection device detects the granules as defective products when the light intensity detected by the sensor is lower than the selection threshold value based on the selection threshold value as the operation parameter of the adjustment unit.
The changed portion is described in any one of claims 1 to 3 for increasing the sorting threshold value in the adjusted unit when the sorting sensitivity in the adjusted unit is smaller than the sorting sensitivity in the reference unit. Granularity inspection equipment.
The granular body inspection apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the changing unit lowers the sorting threshold value in the adjusted unit when the sorting sensitivity in the adjusted unit is larger than the sorting sensitivity in the reference unit.
The inspection unit includes a sending device that sends the granules to the inspection area, a sensor that detects light from the inspection area, and a detection device that detects defective products of the granules based on the output of the sensor. A lighting device for illuminating the inspection area is provided.
From claim 1, the changing unit changes the emission intensity of the lighting device as an operating parameter of the adjusted unit based on the difference between the sorting sensitivity in the reference unit and the sorting sensitivity of the adjusted unit. 5. The granular body inspection apparatus according to any one of 5.
The inspection unit includes a sending device that sends the granules to the inspection area, a sensor that detects light from the inspection area, and a detection device that detects defective products of the granules based on the output of the sensor. Equipped with
The changing unit changes the sensitivity of the sensor as an operating parameter of the adjusted unit based on the difference between the sorting sensitivity of the reference unit and the sorting sensitivity of the adjusted unit. The granular material inspection apparatus according to any one of the following items.
The granular body inspection device according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the changing unit prioritizes and changes the operating parameters of the sending device over the operating parameters of the detecting device.
The changing unit calculates the time average of the sorting sensitivity in a predetermined period for each of the reference unit and the adjusted unit, and changes the operating parameters of the adjusted unit so that the difference between them becomes small. The granular body inspection apparatus according to any one of 1 to 8.
A detection device that detects light from the detection area, and
A delivery device that sends out granules so as to pass through the detection region,
A figure is drawn on the surface, and a member arranged in the detection area so that the figure appears in the output of the detection device.
A granular body inspection device including a position abnormality determination unit for determining the presence or absence of an abnormality in the position of the detection region based on a portion corresponding to the figure in the output of the detection device.
A storage unit for storing a normal output, which is an output of the detection device when the detection area is normal, is provided.
The granular body inspection device according to claim 10, wherein the position abnormality determination unit compares the output of the detection device with the normal output to determine the presence or absence of an abnormality in the position of the detection region.
The figure has a first part and a second part, and has a first part and a second part.
The first portion is a form in which a portion corresponding to the first portion in the output of the detection device changes when the detection region shifts along a specific direction.
The second portion has a form in which the portion corresponding to the second portion in the output of the detection device does not change when the detection region shifts along the specific direction.
10. The granular material inspection apparatus according to.
The first part is a part of the triangle included in the figure.
The granular body inspection apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the second portion is a part of a rectangle included in the figure.
Equipped with a notification device
The granular body inspection device according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the position abnormality determination unit operates the notification device when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the position of the detection region.
Equipped with a notification device
The granular material according to any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the position abnormality determination unit calculates the position fluctuation amount of the detection region and operates the notification device when the position fluctuation amount exceeds the notification threshold value. Inspection equipment.
A quality determination unit for determining the quality of the granules based on the output of the detection device is provided.
The delivery device is configured to send out a plurality of the granules in parallel.
The detection device includes a plurality of pixels arranged in a direction corresponding to the parallel direction of the granules in the detection region.
The position abnormality determination unit calculates the parallel direction fluctuation amount, which is the fluctuation amount of the position of the detection region in the parallel direction, based on the portion corresponding to the figure in the output of the detection device.
The pass / fail determination unit distributes a plurality of the pixels so as to correspond to the plurality of parallel granules, sets a plurality of channels, determines the quality of the granules for each channel, and changes the parallel direction. The granular body inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 10 to 15, wherein the distribution of the pixel to the channel is changed according to the amount.
A quality determination unit that determines the quality of the granules based on the output of the detection device, and
An exclusion device that eliminates the granules determined by the quality determination unit to be non-defective.
It is provided with an exclusion control unit that controls the operation timing of the exclusion device.
The position abnormality determination unit determines the amount of change in the sending direction, which is the amount of change in the position of the detection region with respect to the sending direction of the granules by the sending device, based on the portion of the output of the detecting device corresponding to the figure. Calculate and
The granular body inspection device according to any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein the exclusion control unit changes the operation timing of the exclusion device based on the amount of fluctuation in the delivery direction.
The detection device includes a sensor that detects incident light and a lens device that focuses the light incident on the sensor.
The granular body inspection device according to any one of claims 10 to 17, wherein the position abnormality determination unit adjusts the focus of the lens device based on the portion corresponding to the figure in the output of the detection device.
A sending device that sends out multiple granules in parallel to the inspection area,
A sensor that detects light from the inspection area and
A granular body inspection device including an abnormality determination unit for determining that an abnormality has occurred when it is detected that one of the granular bodies straddles an adjacent channel in the output of the sensor.
A detection unit for detecting a decrease in light intensity due to the granules is provided for each of the plurality of channels in the output of the sensor.
The granular body inspection device according to claim 19, wherein the abnormality determination unit determines that an abnormality has occurred when the detection unit simultaneously detects a decrease in light intensity in the adjacent channel.
The granular body inspection device according to claim 20, wherein the abnormality determination unit determines that an abnormality has occurred when the detection unit detects a decrease in light intensity simultaneously and over time in the adjacent channel.
A claim that the abnormality determination unit determines that an abnormality has occurred when a state in which the detection unit simultaneously detects a decrease in light intensity in the adjacent channels occurs in a plurality of sets of the adjacent channels. 20 or 21. The granular material inspection apparatus.
A detection unit for detecting a decrease in light intensity due to the granules at the output of the sensor is provided.
The sensor has a plurality of pixels arranged along a direction corresponding to the parallel direction of the granules in the inspection region.
The granular material inspection according to claim 19, wherein the abnormality determination unit determines that an abnormality has occurred when a decrease in light intensity due to the granular material is simultaneously detected in the continuous pixels belonging to the adjacent channel. Device.
23. Claim 23, wherein the abnormality determination unit determines that an abnormality has occurred when a decrease in light intensity due to the granules is detected simultaneously and temporally in the continuous pixels belonging to the adjacent channel. Granularity inspection equipment.
A detection unit for detecting a decrease in light intensity due to the granules at the output of the sensor is provided.
The sensor has a plurality of pixels arranged along a direction corresponding to the parallel direction of the granules in the inspection region.
The abnormality determination unit identifies detection pixels that are pixels in which a decrease in light intensity due to the granules is detected, and determines the number of the detection pixels that is smaller among the detection pixels belonging to different channels. The granular inspection apparatus according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the ratio is calculated by dividing by the total number of, and when the ratio exceeds a predetermined threshold value, it is determined that an abnormality has occurred.
Equipped with a notification device
The granular body inspection device according to any one of claims 19 to 25, wherein the abnormality determination unit operates the notification device when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred.
A first sensor as the sensor that detects light emitted in the first direction from the inspection area, and a first sensor.
A second sensor as the sensor that detects light emitted from the inspection area in the second direction opposite to the first direction, and
19 to claim 19, wherein the abnormality determination unit includes an opposite sensor abnormality determination unit that determines that an abnormality has occurred when the abnormality determination unit determines that an abnormality has occurred in the first sensor and the second sensor at approximately the same time. 26. The granular material inspection apparatus according to any one of Items.
An upper sensor as the sensor that detects light from the upper part in the inspection area,
A lower sensor as the sensor that detects light from the lower part in the inspection area,
The abnormality determination unit detects that one of the granules straddles an abnormality channel set which is an adjacent channel in the output of the upper sensor, and the abnormality determination unit detects the abnormality in the output of the lower sensor. Any of claims 19 to 27, comprising an abnormality determination unit between upper and lower sensors that determines that an abnormality has occurred when it is detected that one of the granules straddles the channel corresponding to the abnormality channel set. The granular inspection apparatus according to item 1.
Multiple inspection units that inspect granules and detect defective products,
A storage device that stores the supplied granules and supplies the granules to a plurality of the inspection units.
A granular material inspection device provided in the storage device and provided with an adjusting mechanism for adjusting a supply amount of the granular material to a plurality of the inspection units.
The granular body inspection device according to claim 29, wherein the adjusting mechanism includes a guide member capable of changing the position in a direction intersecting the movement path of the granular body.
The granular body inspection device according to claim 30, wherein the guide member is slidable in the left-right direction.
A bucket conveyor for transporting the granules upward and charging the granules into the storage device is provided.
The granular body inspection device according to claim 30 or 31, wherein the guide member is arranged on the moving path of the granular material loaded from the bucket conveyor.
The granular body inspection device according to claim 32, wherein the guide member is located below the uppermost end of the bucket conveyor.
The storage device includes a branching member that branches its internal space corresponding to the plurality of inspection units.
The granular body inspection device according to any one of claims 30 to 33, wherein the guide member is located above the branch member.
The storage device includes a wall member extending in the vertical direction, an inspection opening formed in the wall member, and a closing member for closing the inspection opening.
The granular body inspection device according to any one of claims 30 to 34, wherein the guide member is supported by the closing member.
An inspection unit that inspects granules and detects defective products,
A storage device for storing the charged granules and supplying the granules to the inspection unit is provided.
The storage device is arranged at an upper part, an inlet where the granules are charged, an outlet which is arranged at a lower part, and an outlet where the granules flow out to the inspection unit, and below the inlet and above the outlet. An overflow discharge port from which the granules can flow out and a cover member arranged between the inlet and the overflow discharge port and on the movement path of the granules introduced from the inlet are provided.
A granular material inspection device configured so that the granular material stored in the storage device below the cover member can flow into the overflow discharge port.
The storage device includes a lower constriction portion having a lower constriction shape connected to the outlet.
The overflow outlet is provided on the side wall of the lower constriction portion.
The granular body inspection apparatus according to claim 36, wherein the cover member is provided above the overflow discharge port.
The granular body inspection device according to claim 36 or 37, wherein the width of the overflow outlet and the width of the cover member are substantially the same.
The granular body inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 36 to 38, wherein the upper end of the cover member and the lower end of the entrance are located at substantially the same height.
The granular body inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 36 to 39, wherein the upper surface of the cover member is provided with an inclined surface that is inclined diagonally downward.
A granular body including an upper pulley and a lower pulley pivotally supported at the upper and lower ends of a main body case, a belt spanned between the upper pulley and the lower pulley, and a plurality of buckets attached to the belt. An elevator for transporting granules, which transports the above-mentioned bucket.
The belt is provided with a scraper for scooping up the granules staying in the main body case.
The scraper is an elevator for transporting granules, which comprises a passable portion through which the granules scooped up by the scraper can pass.
The elevator for transporting granules according to claim 41, wherein the passable portion is provided on the side of the scraper closer to the belt.
The scraper is
A scraper member for scooping up the granules staying in the main body case, and
A holding member that holds the scraper member against the belt, and
Equipped with
The elevator for transporting granules according to claim 41, wherein the passable portion is provided on the holding member.
The scraper is configured by attaching a scraper member for scooping up the granules staying in the main body case to a part of the buckets among the plurality of buckets.
The elevator for transporting granules according to claim 41, wherein the passable portion is provided in a bucket to which the scraper member is attached.
A granular body including an upper pulley and a lower pulley pivotally supported at the upper and lower ends of a main body case, a belt spanned between the upper pulley and the lower pulley, and a plurality of buckets attached to the belt. A scraper for an elevator provided on the belt in an elevator for transporting granules, and for scooping up the granules staying in the main body case.
A scraper for an elevator characterized by having a passable portion through which the scooped granules can pass.