METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CLASSIFYING BATCHES OF WOOD CHIPS OR THE LIKE

摘要

A method and apparatus for classifying batches of wood chips or the like according to light reflection characteristics provide optimal use of darker wood chips in pulp and paper processes. According to a preferr ed embodiment, light produced by a set of illumination sources is evenly directed onto superficial wood chips of an inspected batch portion transported on a conveyor while being inspected by a camera disposed over the conveyor. The superficial wood chips presenting light reflection characteristics being substantially representative of the wood chips of the inspected batch, reflected light is sensed by the camera t o produce electrical signals representing reflection intensity values for the wood chips of the batch portion. From the electrical signals produced, image processing is performed to provide global reflection intensity data for the inspected batch, which are then compared with reference reflection intensity data to provide classification of the inspected wood chips batch into proper wood chips grade according to its light reflection characteristics.