This high speed automatic sorting system combines machine vision and weight sensors to identify and sort components at nearly six parts per second.
The operator loads a bin of unsorted parts at the hydraulic dumper. Bin contents are automatically and genteelly adsorbed by the sucker, and are then lifted to working height by the elevation conveyor into the bulk-feed chain conveyor. Parts are then distributed into chain conveyor where the parts are accelerated and weighted precisely by our sensitive weight sensor.
Each battery plate passes through laser weight-detection sensors, and then enter one of four vision stations. The parts are identified by a combination of weight and machine vision, using both pattern recognition and color. The identified part is then tracked as it moves along the sorting conveyor. As the part approaches its bin, a timed blast of air knocks the part into the bin. Unidentified and erroneous parts move to the end of the sorting conveyor and into a reject bin for eventual resorting.
Operator controls are via a single touch-sensitive screen. Operator attention during processing is typically required only to load and unload parts bins, and to respond to any errors generated during machine operation. Parts to be sorted and their associated bins are easily configured via custom recipe software.
Specification
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Details
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Control System &User Interface
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Allen-Bradley PLC controls system. Touch-sensitive screens enable full control of all operator and maintenance functions
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Material Handling
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Automated hydraulic dumper maintains level in bulk feed conveyor. Variable frequency (“VFD”) drive custom conveyors separate, accelerate, and singulate recyclables. Parts sorted by pneumatic blow-off
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Machine Vision
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Four JAI 1624 x 1236 high-speed digital cameras working through a GigE interface and multiple Cognex vision cards. Custom pattern matching software written in C# and running on Windows XP platform.
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Throughput
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350 parts/minute
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Environment
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Fully guarded lift assembly with interlocked access doors. Fully enclosed conveyor drives. Cable-style Emergency Stop activation along both sides of
automatic sorting and stacking machin. |
