Determination of flint wheel orientation for the automated assembly of lighters

摘要

Abstract: Assembling flint wheels into cigarette lighters requires the insertion of the wheels into assembly from a certain side of the wheel. Computer vision techniques are used to enable the assembly system to determine appropriate orientation for the upright and fallen wheels and properly insert them into the assembly. Wheel surface images obtained under directional lighting are studied and features are found which provide the required distinguishability. Near real-time decision making is achieved by the system and very satisfactory results are reported.!