Abstract: A device for inspecting an object for defects and debris having a first light and a second light to create two images of the object, and a system of mirrors and lenses to direct the images to a sensing station, typically a video camera. A first embodiment uses two sources of light, a first parallel annular bundle and a second diffuse source, to inspect an open holder, such as an aluminum can without a lid, for defects and debris. A second embodiment uses two sources of diffuse light to inspect a cylindrical glass tube, such as a fluorescent light bulb, for defects and debris.

Abstract: A device is provided for inspecting the inner surface of a hollow body, such as a metal container with a cylindrical standing wall and a bottom. Initially, the hollow body and a light source are placed at chosen positions relative to each other, such that the light source can light the inner surface approximately uniformly. A video camera for inspecting the inner surface is positioned such that the direction of lighting and the direction of inspection of each portion of the inner surface approximately coincide.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for inspecting the filling with sealing compound of a gutter present in an object, e.g. a metal lid. Such a method can according to the invention take place by carrying out the following steps:(1) providing an object to be inspected;(2) directing a light beam on said gutter;(3) previously determining the shape of the reflection picture of at least said gutter of an object satisfying a predetermined standard;(4) determining the picture of said gutter;(5) comparing the results of steps (4) and generating a rejection signal in case of a detected deviation outside a chosen tolerance range. Should only e.g. a diverging beam be used, it can happen that a local lack of filling compound is not detected by a sensing device, since from the zone in question no reflection in the direction of the sensing device can take place as a result of shadow-effect.

Abstract: The invention has for its purpose to provide a method and an apparatus for inspecting the bent edge of a disc-shaped object, e.g. the annular edge of a metal lid bounding a gutter for sealing compound. In order to realize such an inspection with great reliability according to the invention the resolution is made as great as possible by means of the following steps:(1) directing a light beam onto the edge zone of the object under an angle of incidents, such that the bent edge gives a shadow in said edge zone;(2) previously determining the shape of the reflection picture also determined by said shadow of said illuminated edge zone in case of an object satisfying a predetermined standard;(3) determining the reflection picture of the edge zone of an object to be inspected; and(4) comparing the results of steps (3) and (4) and generating a rejection signal in case of a detected deviation lying outside a previously chosen tolerance range.

Abstract: The mouth edges of a succession of bottles can be inspected using a lighting system for lighting the mouths of each bottle, an optical imaging system for forming an image of the mouth of each bottle, a measuring system for determining the height of the mouth of each successive bottle, and a movable lens in the optical imaging system for compensating for differences in mouth heights of the bottles.