Inspection and sorting machine
AssigneeLinear Group Services, LLC
InventorsJames P. DeFillipi, Larry N. Wright
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An inspection and sorting machine and a related method of operation are provided. The inspection and sorting machine includes an inspection system that outputs a first signal corresponding to a fastener condition and a second signal corresponding to an inspection condition. Based on the inspection system output, a controller determines whether a fastener is classified as conforming or whether the fastener is classified as undetermined. Conforming fasteners are diverted into a conforming parts chute, and undetermined fasteners are diverted into a recirculated parts chute. The remaining fasteners are diverted into a reject chute. The undetermined fasteners are recirculated into the inspection and sorting machine for re-inspection.
Claims20
A method comprising:
- providing a plurality of fasteners;
- transporting the plurality of fasteners in a product stream, each of the plurality of fasteners being directed through an inspection system;
- performing an optical inspection of the plurality of fasteners in the product stream as the plurality of fasteners are directed through the inspection system;
- determining, for each of the plurality of fasteners, whether the optical inspection is impeded by a system fault;
- classifying, using a central controller, each of the plurality of fasteners having undergone the optical inspection without a system fault;
- selectively sorting, into a first chute or a second chute, fasteners having undergone the optical inspection without a system fault;
- and
- receiving, into a third chute for recirculation through the inspection system, fasteners for which the optical inspection included a system fault.
An inspection and sorting machine comprising:
- a feed system adapted to transport a plurality of fasteners in a product stream;
- an inspection system adapted to perform an optical inspection of each of the plurality of fasteners, the inspection system including first and second cameras and an inspection controller, the inspection controller providing an output;
- a central controller in electrical communication with the inspection controller output and adapted to classify each of the plurality of fasteners that undergo an optical inspection without a system fault;
- and
- a sorting system including:
- first and second chutes to selectively receive fasteners that undergo an optical inspection without a system fault, and
- a third chute to accept fasteners for which the optical inspection includes a system fault for recirculation through the inspection system.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.