Patent ID: 6805245
Filing Date: 2004-10-19
Classification: B07C

Abstract:
An object sorting system for automatically inspecting a plurality of objects and sorting acceptable objects from defective objects, the system comprising:a feed conveyer for receiving a first plurality of objects, the feed conveyor moving the first plurality of objects through an inspection area; a barrier placed across a top surface of the feed conveyer, wherein the barrier defines a boundary of the inspection area and is configured to redirect the first plurality of objects and cause the first plurality of objects to rotate about an object axis; a sorting camera positioned for capturing an image of each of the first plurality of objects as the first plurality of objects rotate and move through the inspection area; at least one final rejection valve, the at least one final rejection valve functioning to separate finally defective objects and inspected acceptable objects; and a processor coupled to the feed conveyer, the sorting camera and the at least one rejection valve, wherein the processor executes an inspection routine that controls a speed of the feed conveyer, a scanning rate of the sorting camera and actuation of the at least one final rejection valve, and wherein the first plurality of objects are one of a bolt, an engine valve, a capsule, a ball bearing and a medical ball.