Technology Offer
High performance automated sorting/separation device
for irregularly shaped objects
Summary
An Austrian SME has developed a device for automatic recognition, classification and sorting of
irregularly shaped objects. Initial setup is performed either by visual teaching or by providing 3D
datasets. Main advantages are speed and flexibility. The technology is currently used for
classification in the process of artificial tooth production. The company is searching for new fields of
application and the adaption of client specific requirements within technical co-operations.
Creation Date
Last Update
Expiration Date
Reference
12 February 2014
04 March 2014
04 March 2015
TOAT20140212001
Details
Description
Automated classification is already used for defined shaped parts and many different solutions
are available. The challenge is the real time classification of irregularly shaped pieces. The
Austrian SME offers a solution that has been developed for the dental sector. In general the
company supplies this sector globally since 1998 with custom-made products (eg: high quality
moulds for denture teeth) and offers complete packages of technical and medical competencies.
Another successful invention is the seperation device for a fully automated tooth production.
The offered device for sorting of artificial teeth facilitates the fully automatic sorting of denture
teeth, which considerably vary in shape and size. The classification system is based on optical
image recognition which determines the data on type and sort of tooth. The device functions as
follows: a number of mixed objects are put into the machine: In a first step the objects are
divided and lined up on a conveyor belt which transports them to the recognition unit (see
enclosed picture). After recognition, the objects are blown out by an air impulse into the
corresponding bays. These bays are connected to an optional storage system. Alternatively the
objects can be manipulated with a robotics system which calculates the optimal grip point. The
device provides high output rates and accuracy of detection. Adaptable interfaces enable the
system to fit into existing solutions. The system currently works for artificial teeth but can easily
be adapted for other irregularly shaped pieces that need to be classified and sorted. There is no
restriction regarding the size of the objects, nor of the material. But the pieces must be
distinguishable in front of a black or white background. The solution is self-learning, works fully
automated without manual interaction, and especially beneficial for irregularly (e.g. organically)
shaped objects. The classification is performed with high speed so the output reaches several
thousand units per hour (between 10000 and 12000 units). Parts classified by this machine
have lowered the failure rate compared to manual classification (by 90%) and the automation
provides constant results 24 hours a day. The SME is searching for new fields of application
and/ or technologial partners to adapt the device to the client specific needs.
Ref: TOAT20140212001
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Advantages and Innovations
- Self-learning system solution; - Suitable for irregular shapes; - Fully automated; - High speed
classification (output rate: several thousand units/hour); - Improvement to (mainly) manual
classification in terms of speed (up to 12000 units per hour), failure rate (reduced by 90%) and
costs; - No significant limitations in terms of object forms or materials which have to be sorted or
separated (within an order of magnitude of objects up to approximately two inches)
Stage of Development
Already on the market
IPR Status
Secret Know-how
Profile Origin
National R&D programme
Keywords
Technology
001001001
001002012
002002012
002003002
002003004
006001014
Automation, Robotics Control Systems
Imaging, Image Processing, Pattern Recognition
Mixing (powder, etc.), separation (sorting, filtering)
Information processing & Systems, Workflow
Process automation
Medical Technology / Biomedical Engineering
Market
002004004
005003006
005007006
008002004
008002005
Other scanning related (including optical mark sensing and image
processing)
Other medical/health related (not elsewhere classified)
Laboratory equipment
Robotics
Machine vision software and systems
NACE
C.28.9.9
Manufacture of other special-purpose machinery n.e.c.
Network Contact
Issuing Partner
Steinbeis-Europa-Zentrum
Contact Person
Franziska Bergmann
Ref: TOAT20140212001
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Phone Number
+49 721 935 19 18
Email
[email protected]
Client
Type and Size of Organisation Behind the Profile
Industry SME 50-249
Year Established
1990
Already Engaged in Trans-National Cooperation
Yes
Langages Spoken
English
German
Spanish
Client Country
Austria
Partner Sought
Type and Role of Partner Sought
Area of activity: - know-how about manufacturing specific requirements e.g. quality assurance or
automation; - potential sectors might be: jewellery, plastic components or button production,
(medical) control engineering, electronic equipment, food or pharma industry; - pilot client in a
new branch. Role: - identifying new fields of application - joint development and/ or adaptation to
specific needs (e.g. integration into process and / or machines of partner - testing and support
for implementation
Type and Size of Partner Sought
>500
Type of Partnership Considered
Manufacturing agreement
Commercial agreement with technical assistance
Technical cooperation agreement
Research cooperation agreement
Ref: TOAT20140212001
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Printed: 31 March 2014