Abstract: A part-forming machine having an in-mold integrated vision system and method therefor for verifying the presence, absence and quality of molded parts therein. The image of the mold and/or part is acquired at a substantially parallel angle relative to the image-capturing source thereby allowing the imaging of the mold while the mold is opening thus increasing the resolution, speed and accuracy of part-forming machine imaging systems.

Abstract: A part-forming machine having an in-mold integrated vision system and method therefor for verifying the presence, absence and quality of molded parts therein. The image of the mold and/or part is acquired at a substantially parallel angle relative to the image-capturing source thereby allowing the imaging of the mold while the mold is opening thus increasing the resolution, speed and accuracy of part-forming machine imaging systems.

Abstract: A wireless image processing method and device for utilization in combination with a machine vision system, preferably a part-forming machine, wherein a wireless communicator delivers images to a host computer that can analyze the data and determine functionality to the manufacturing process, wherein the host computer can incorporate wireless components, wherein wireless signals can be sent and/or received to input/output modules to control the processes, and wherein the input/output modules can affect said control wirelessly, thereby minimizing and/or eliminating physical cabling and wiring constraints to enable smaller implementations, increased analysis capabilities, and improved price/performance ratios. Alternatively, an image analyzing means may be integrated with an image capturing means, wherein a control signal can be wirelessly communicated to affect the manufacturing process.

Abstract: A part-forming machine having an in-mold integrated vision system and method therefor for verifying the presence, absence and quality of molded parts therein. The image of the mold and/or part is acquired at a substantially parallel angle relative to the image-capturing source thereby allowing the imaging of the mold while the mold is opening thus increasing the resolution, speed and accuracy of part-forming machine imaging systems.

Abstract: A part-forming machine having an infrared vision inspection system and a method for verifying the presence, absence and quality of molded parts therein wherein an infrared vision system is utilized. At least one infrared sensor is used in conjunction with a part-forming machine, wherein the infrared sensor takes an image of the part and/or mold based on infrared radiation emitted by the part/mold. Based on the infrared image, the part-forming machine responds thereto by activating ejectors and reimaging the part/mold, or continuing with the next molding step.

Abstract: A part-forming machine having an in-mold integrated vision system and method therefor for verifying the presence, absence and quality of molded parts therein. The image of the mold and/or part is acquired at a substantially parallel angle relative to the image-capturing source thereby allowing the imaging of the mold while the mold is opening thus increasing the resolution, speed and accuracy of part-forming machine imaging systems.

Abstract: A part-forming machine having an in-mold integrated vision system and method therefor for verifying the presence, absence and quality of molded parts therein. The image of the mold and/or part is acquired at a substantially parallel angle relative to the image-capturing source thereby allowing the imaging of the mold while the mold is opening thus increasing the resolution, speed and accuracy of part-forming machine imaging systems.

Abstract: The present invention replaces the multiple controller systems by incorporating the controller of sensory devices with the part-forming machine controller (typically a personal computer), thereby producing a synergistic combination. More specifically, sensory devices such as, for exemplary purposes only, cameras, infrared sensors, ultrasonic sensors, or other sensing devices are connected directly to one or more preexisting serial, parallel or USB ports or other bus interfaces of the machine controller. By programming the machine controller or loading software therein, the machine controller can receive the input signal(s)/data from the sensory device, analyze the data, provide an output signal to the sensory device and communicate directly and contemporaneously with the machine controller software.

Abstract: A part-forming machine having an in-mold integrated vision system and method therefor for verifying the presence, absence and quality of molded parts therein. The image of the mold and/or part is acquired at a substantially parallel angle relative to the image-capturing source thereby allowing the imaging of the mold while the mold is opening thus increasing the resolution, speed and accuracy of part-forming machine imaging systems.

Abstract: A part-forming machine having an infrared vision inspection system and a method for verifying the presence, absence and quality of molded parts therein wherein an infrared vision system is utilized. At least one infrared sensor is used in conjunction with a part-forming machine, wherein the infrared sensor takes an image of the part and/or mold based on infrared radiation emitted by the part/mold. Based on the infrared image, the part-forming machine responds thereto by activating ejectors and reimaging the part/mold, or continuing with the next molding step.

Abstract: A skip-eject system for an injection molding machine includes an electronic camera for acquiring an actual image of an open mold after a part ejector has operated and a controller for comparing such actual image with an ideal image of the open mold with no part in the open mold. If a comparison of the actual image with the ideal image indicates that a part is no longer in the open mold, the controller outputs a close mold signal to close the mold and start injection molding of a new part. However, if the comparison indicates that the part is still in the open mold, the controller outputs an ejection signal to actuate the ejector to cycle again. This sequence continues until a comparison of an actual image of the open mold with the ideal image indicates that the part is no longer in the open mold.