Method and device for analysis and separation of grain

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for rapid analysis and separation of grain volume to grain batch based on one or more grain parameter values.

In the specification, the term "operational" refers to a procedure which can be performed while the device is operating, and does not require stopping the device during the procedure.

The quality of the grain used is an important aspect of all types of grain processing. For example, when malting quality barley has a significant impact on the final quality of the malt. The two most critical factors that determine the quality of the barley are the grain moisture and protein content and, therefore, these factors require special attention to the storage and processing.

The moisture content of the grain has a great impact on his health and viability during storage. Compressed barley, for example, with a moisture content exceeding 14% by weight of the barley, needs to be dried to reduce the moisture level from 12% to 13% prior to storage. The exact level depends on the expected duration of storage prior to processing and storage temperature. The drying process must be rather delicate and, thus, used temperature not exceeding 65 ° C-70 ° C depending on the initial moisture content of the grain. Final grain temperature should not exceed 40 ° C, otherwise irreversible damage to the fetus and other living tissues of barley malting process subsequent harm.

Protein levels in barley determine the final protein levels in the malt and thus the malt quality. It has been found that barley having a protein content ranging from 9.5% to 12% dry matter will yield malt having a protein level in the range of 9.2% to 11.7% dry substance. Protein content affects the absorption of water during impregnation and the degree and quality of endosperm modification during germination, and thus, nonuniform protein content of batch lead to inhomogeneous grain germination party. This will affect the color, aroma and taste of malt and malt subsequent processing.

In many currently available methods of measuring protein content and moisture content of the grain. Moisture content can be measured by weighing the batch of grain before and after drying, however the main drawback of this method is that it requires a lot of time, and analysis of each batch takes 2 to 3 hours. On the basis of this principle have been developed fast methods, for example, the method of Sartorius, and, according to this method is required to analyze, for example, only 20-30 minutes, including preparation, but as it turned out, it is less accurate. Another quick method for measuring the moisture content is called "HOH-Express" (Heckmann company, Germany). This method takes only three to five minutes and has good accuracy, but requires prior automatic or manual sampling, is time consuming. Previous methods of measuring protein content include the Kjeldahl method, which involves nitrogen analysis. This method also requires a lot of time and needs in taking samples.

According to all the above-mentioned method takes several samples from the party, these volumes are analyzed according to these methods, and the average result for the values ​​of a particular measured parameter of grain, ie protein content, moisture content. However, the average value for the measured parameter values ​​depends on the type of corn grain in each sample and generally may not represent the entire batch of grain.

An improved apparatus for measuring grain parameters is disclosed in U.S. Patent number 5,406,084. This document discloses a method and apparatus for measuring a NIR-line measurement of fluid food ingredients. However, after the measurements are averaged to provide a mean value for a particular batch of grain ingredient. Therefore, it is assumed that the method and apparatus lead to inhomogeneities in the batches of grain.

Accordingly, a more efficient method and apparatus for analyzing and for separating grain to provide more homogeneous batches of grain on the basis of a particular grain parameter.

Disclosure of invention

According to the invention, a method of analyzing the operational volume of grain separation and grain for batch based on one or more grain parameter values, the method comprising the steps of:

served optically dense layer of the grain continuously through the operating area of ​​measurements;

analyzing the amount of grain by emitting light onto the grain layer, the light is reflected on the amount of grain passing through the operational zone of measurement and detect the reflected light from the grain volume for the spectrum of the grain volume;

transform spectrum in the value of grain or grain value of each parameter; and

corn on the party divide by sorting the amount of grain on the basis of the parameter values ​​of grain or grain of each parameter

characterized in that:

operatively separated grain on the basis of the grain parameter value for each parameter or grain.

The advantage of this method is more accurate separation of the grain on the basis of a specified grain parameter value. Thus, after separation, grain quantities with similar values ​​for a specific grain parameter can be stored together as homogeneous batches. This eliminates any disadvantages associated with the heterogeneity of the grain. For example, in the case of compressed barley, batches of barley with similar moisture contents can be stored accordingly in order to optimize the drying performance as well as ensuring the required viability of the grain after the drying process. Additionally, barley with homogenous protein contents, can be stored and processed for more uniform modification.

A further advantage of the invention lies in the fact that the values ​​measured for each of the volumes Sublot or grains, can be monitored. Thus, the documentation for each particular method may be available to customers, which is important in terms of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) (recognized worldwide system designed to ensure that food products are safe and suitable for food), and security policies of food .

In one embodiment, a random division of the grain comprises the steps of:

retain one or more grain threshold values;

comparing the value of grain or grain each parameter with the corresponding stored threshold of grain;

generating a signal based on a comparison between the value of grain or grain value for each parameter and the corresponding grain threshold value;

signal used for automatic feeding of the grain volume at a predetermined location on the basis of the grain parameter value.

In another embodiment, the optically dense layer of grain is fed at a speed of 0.5 to 2.5 m / s. In a further embodiment, the optically dense layer of grain is fed at a rate of 1 to 2 m / s. The advantage of these rates is that they allow you to quickly analyze and share grain. Therefore, the method requires less time and lower costs.

Preferably, the light is emitted continuously onto the optically dense grain layer.

In one embodiment, it emits light at a wavelength of 200 to 2000 nm.

In another embodiment, emit light in the near infrared (NIR) spectral range from 780 nm to 2000 nm and provide the NIR spectrum.

In a further embodiment, it emits light at a wavelength of 900 to 1500 nm.

In one embodiment, the light detected from the grain volume for from 15 to 70 milliseconds.

In another embodiment, the light detected from the grain volume for from 30 to 50 milliseconds. Thus, due to the rapid detection of light, this method also speeds up the analysis and separation of the grain.

The invention also provides a device for rapid analysis and separation of grain volume to grain batch based on one or more grain parameter values, the apparatus comprising:

means for continuously feeding the optically dense grain layer through on-line measurement area;

a light source for irradiating light to the grain layer, the light is reflected on the amount of grain passing through the operational zone of measurement;

a sensor unit for detecting light reflected from the grain volume for the spectrum of the grain volume;

means for converting the spectrum into a grain parameter value for each parameter or grain; and

means for separating the grain on the party by sorting the grain volume based on the grain parameter value or values ​​of each grain parameter;

characterized in that:

the apparatus further comprises operating means for separating the grain on the basis of the grain parameter value and the parameter value of each grain.

In one embodiment, the separation means operative grain comprises:

a controller comprising one or more stored grain threshold values;

a transmitter for transmitting the parameter values ​​of each grain or grain parameters for the controller; in which

the controller compares the grain parameter value or the value of each parameter with the corresponding stored grain threshold value grain;

controller generates a signal based on a comparison between the value of grain or grain value for each parameter and the corresponding grain threshold value; and

controller transmits the signal to at least one discharge means, whereby a signal is used for automatic feeding of the grain volume through the discharge means at a predetermined location on the basis of the grain parameter value.

In another embodiment, the discharge means comprises:

Managed chute having an open position and a closed position and connected to the first hopper; and

ramp end coupled to the second hopper; in which

a controller in communication with the controlled ramp and controls the position of the ramp managed to promote or inhibit the output of grain volume through the chute; whereby

When the ramp is controlled in the closed position, the amount of grain will leave the device through a terminal ramp.

In a further embodiment of the invention, with a ramp capable of pivotally rotated between an open position and a closed position.

In one embodiment, the controlled ramp remains in the same position during detection of grain parameter values ​​which are consistently lower or higher than the grain threshold value.

In another embodiment, the controller transmits a signal to the controlled ramp to prepare for changing the position and starts counting a predetermined time delay after detection of a sufficient tlag changes grain parameter value to the parameter value passed through the grain threshold value grain.

In a further embodiment, the controller transmits a signal to the control for changing the slope after the detection of the position sequence sufficiently changed grain parameter values ​​during the lag time tlag.

In this embodiment, the position managed slope varies a time equal to tlag + tn; wherein tn is equal to the time period during which the final volume of grain analyzed during the lag time tlag, can pass from the sensor unit to the controlled ramp. The advantage of these particular embodiments is that they allow rapid separation of the grain operative, while overcoming possible limitations which could be due to the mechanical nature of the device. Thus, since the position of the ramp changes only after detecting a sequence sufficiently change the parameter value of grain, it prevents the constant fluctuations ramp or other suitable means of opening.

In one embodiment, the controller is a programmable logic controller.

In another embodiment, the feed means delivers the optically dense grain layer at a speed of 0.5 to 2.5 m / s.

In a further embodiment, supplying means delivers the optically dense grain layer at a speed of 1 to 2 m / s.

In one embodiment, the feed means comprises a metering ramp that can be adjusted by sliding in the supply means to provide the optically dense grain layer. The advantage of the metering ramp is that it controls the flow of constant velocity grain thus allowing the sensor unit to detect light of a sufficiently dense grain layer as it passes through the zone operational measurements.

In another embodiment, the feed means comprises one or more troughs for feeding grain conveyor.

In this embodiment, the chute for supplying grain is located at an angle of 45 ° to 90 ° relative to the conveyor.

In another embodiment, the feed chute further comprises a grain volume grain divider having a plurality of chutes providing channels for flow of individual grain volume.

In one embodiment, the light source emits light continuously onto the optically dense grain layer.

In another embodiment, the light source emits light in the wavelength range from 200 to 2000 nm.

In a further embodiment, the light source emits light in the near infrared (NIR) spectral range from 780 nm to 2000 nm, and a NIR spectrum is provided.

In yet a further embodiment, the light source emits light in the wavelength range from 900 to 1500 nm.

In one embodiment, the sensor unit is installed at an angle of about 90 ° to the supply means.

In one embodiment, the grain parameters are selected from the group consisting of one or more of grain protein content, grain moisture content, starch extract content, the content of β-glucan, beta-amylase content and content of mycotoxin.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The invention appears from the following description of some embodiments given by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 - scheme of the device according to the invention;

FIG. 2 - view of a funnel for loading grain chute for supplying grain according to one embodiment;

FIG. 3 - view of the chute for supplying grain according to another embodiment;

FIG. 4 - a view of one embodiment of the downstream apparatus of the invention;

FIG. 5 - a view of another embodiment of the downstream apparatus of the invention;

FIG. 6 - view of a further embodiment of the downstream apparatus of the invention;

FIG. 7 - view of another embodiment of the downstream apparatus of the invention;

FIG. 8 - view of a further embodiment of the downstream apparatus of the invention;

FIG. 9 - view of a still further embodiment of the downstream apparatus of the invention;

FIG. 10 - kind of funnel laboratory scale to load grain and grain for feeding trough with a measuring head;

FIG. 11 - diagram of another device of the invention; and

FIG. 12 - additional circuit device with each of the parameters necessary for programming the controller device.

EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 shows a diagram of the device according to the invention, indicated as a whole with 1. The apparatus comprises a hopper 2 for loading and grain chute 3 for continuous delivery of grain into the grain supply device 1. The device 1 also comprises a conveyor 4 for continuous delivery of grain through the apparatus 1. The dosing chute 5, which provides a constant and uniform flow of grain through the apparatus 1 is provided with a gutter 3 for supply of grain, as shown, or in any suitable position in the conveyor 4. The dispensing chute 5 can be adjusted manually to control the flow of grain through the apparatus 1 and thereby ensuring a constant flow of grain at a fixed rate and an optically dense layer of grains for analysis. In the specification, the term "optically dense grain layer" refers to a dense grain layer of at least 10mm without any gaps between the grain.

The apparatus 1 further comprises a light source 6 for emitting light onto the grain layer and a sensor unit 7 for detecting light reflected from the scope of the grain layer and providing the spectrum of the grain volume. The light source 6 may, optionally, be positioned in the sensor unit 7. The sensor unit 7 can also comprise a measuring head (not shown) and a reference system to the black / white (not shown). Spectrometer 8 is further provided for converting the spectrum into an electrical signal which is then converted to the corresponding value of the grain volume using specialized software. Grain parameter values ​​generated by the spectrometer 8 are transmitted to a controller 9 generally by means of a transmitter (not shown).

The apparatus 1 further comprises one or more ramps 10a, 10b, through which the quantities of grain can leave the apparatus 1. Controlled ramp 10a is regulated by the controller 9 and is opened or closed, depending on the grain parameter value for that particular volume. When controlled by the ramp 10a is opened, the amount of grain passing through a controlled ramp 10a, at this time will go through a controlled ramp 10a in the storage bin (not shown).

The controller 9 also controls when operated ramp 10a to be opened, and how long the controlled ramp 10a must remain open, and additional details of this control will be discussed with reference to FIG. 12. Any quantities of grain which are not in the specified range, received through the conveyor chute 4 at the tip end 10b, where they will leave the device through the end ramp 10b in another storage tank (not shown) that allows operative to separate the grain on the basis of a specific parameter .

FIG. 2 shows a more detailed view of the grain, feed chute 3 for feeding grain through the hopper 2 for loading grain. The light source 6 is located in the sensor unit 7. The sensor unit 7 is located outside the chute for supplying grain light-emitting region chute for supplying grain, referred to as area measurement. The sensor unit 7 also should be positioned at an angle to the flow of the grain so that the light emitted by passing accurately reflect layer of grain. As it turned out, the most suitable angle from 45 ° to 90 ° chute for supplying grain. Dosing ramp 5 is located after the sensor unit 7 and allows regulation by sliding in the chute for supplying grain to ensure the provision of an optically dense layer of grains measuring sensor unit 7.

FIG. 3 shows an alternative embodiment of the gutter 3 for supply of grain. In this embodiment, the flume 3 is provided for feeding grain divider 20 of the grain volume. Divider 20 includes a plurality of the grain volume chutes 21, through which the amount of grain can flow before uniformly mix before passing the sensor unit 7. The grain volume divider 20 ensures that the quality of the grain in the grain mass differential passing by the sensor unit 7 will be uniform in diameter corresponding trough 21. The divider 20 volume, particularly suitable for higher grain costs and, in particular, the cost of grains over about 400 m / h. Dosing ramp 5 may also be provided to control grain flow.

FIG. 4-9 shows a different embodiment of the downstream apparatus 1. As shown in FIG. 4, gutter 3 for supply of grain at an angle of about 45 ° to the conveyor 4. The sensor unit 7 is located outside the gutter 3 for supply of grain, when set at an angle of 90 ° to the flow of grain. FIG. 4 also shows the controlled ramp and an end ramp 10a 10b, leading to separate storage silos 30a and 30b, respectively.

FIG. 5 shows an alternative embodiment of device 1. In this embodiment, the sensor unit 7 is located when the conveyor 4 for feeding grain chute 3. In this embodiment, the dispensing chute 5 can be disposed in the trough 3 for feeding grain to the sensor unit 7 or a conveyor 4 after the sensor unit 7 to provide the optically dense grain layer for analysis.

FIG. 6 shows a further alternative embodiment of device 1. In this embodiment, the sensor unit 7 is also located outside of the conveyor 4 however on the opposite side of the conveyor 4 and thus not shown.

FIG. 7, 8 and 9 correspond to FIGS. 4, 5 and 6, except that the gutter 3 for supply of grain is located at an angle of 90 ° to the conveyor 4. In this embodiment, it is also preferable to use a divider 20 of the grain volume, and the metering ramp is provided above the trough 3 for supplying grain. Thus, the device can be applied to any industrial application where the angle of the chute for supplying grain may vary from 90 ° (vertical) and 45 °. The angle of the chute for supplying grain 3 depends on certain typical flow criteria. Such criteria include the type of the analyzed and shared grain material chute feeder, friction coefficients, the space for installation in the bunker devices and other relevant factors.

FIG. 10 shows a laboratory scale hopper 2 for loading and grain chute 3 for feeding grain from the measuring head 40 applied for calibration purposes. The measuring head 40 comprises a light source and optics and is identical to the measuring head, disposed in the sensor unit 1. The unit 7 thus provides the same physical optical conditions as the conditions in industrial device 1. Before use the apparatus 1, it is necessary to inspect and binding device 1 for a specific type of grain and grain parameter value being measured. Sample type Measurement grain is fed into a laboratory scale model, and the range of the grain is obtained using the measuring head 40. A spectrometer is connected to the measuring head 40 by optical fibers (not shown) and the spectrometer is connected to a PC (not shown), on which the necessary software software to convert the spectra obtained in the corresponding analytical values. The sample is then analyzed by grain using other analysis methods, such as chemical analysis, and can obtain a calibration curve based on the analytical values ​​of the parameter, and the resulting spectrum. The calibration curve and corresponding tested calibration data are used to transform spectra in analytical values ​​in commercial scale application.

Referring to FIG. 11, during use, grain is fed into the trough 3 for feeding grain through the apparatus 1 hopper 2 for loading grain. 7 shows a sensor unit located outside the gutter 3 for supply of grain, and the conveyor 4. Due to the fact that the sensor unit 7 is disposed near a gutter 3 for supply of grain, is active, light is continuously emitted by the light source 6 of this sensor unit 7 for a predetermined period zone measurement on grain feed chute for irradiating light to the amount of grain passing through the measurement zone. The optically dense layer of grain is provided in the measurement zone metering ramp 5, located downstream of the trough 3 to feed grain.

Light reflected by the volume of grain in the area of ​​measurement and is defined as the intensity of the light sensor unit 7 to provide a range of grain volume. The sensor unit 7 collects the reflected light and transmits it through the optical fiber to the spectrometer 8. The spectrometer 8 measures the spectrum of the reflected light at respective wavelengths on the type of grain and the analytical parameter and converts it into an electric signal. This electrical signal is fed through an Ethernet connection and PC Interface (PCI) to a PC with specialized software.

The software converts this electrical signal into a corresponding value of grain through the calibration data described above in relation to FIG. 10. The grain parameter values ​​are recorded over time and are then converted into analog and / or digital signals. These signals are sent to the controller 9 via suitable interfaces, such as I / O boards.

The controller 9 pre-programmed thresholds corresponding grain. Having received from the spectrometer 8, the grain parameter value for a particular volume, the controller 9 compares the grain parameter value with the grain threshold value and controls the controlled ramp 10a through preprogrammed settings (tn, tlag), which will be further discussed in connection with FIG. 12.

FIG. 12 shows a further schematic view of the device 1, wherein said each of the measurement parameters. The controller 9 is preprogrammed relevant grain threshold values ​​as well as other pre-sets for specific configuration and size of the apparatus 1. Thus as soon as the controller 9 receives a grain parameter value from the spectrometer 8 via the PC it will compare it to the corresponding stored grain threshold value and It is programmed to transmit a signal to the managed chute 10a, to either open or closed to leave it on the basis of this comparison.

In addition to management, open-controlled ramp 10a, or to keep it closed, the controller 9 can also be calculated and determined when the controlled ramp 10a to be opened, and for how long controlled ramp 10a must remain open, in line with the actual sequence of signals received from the controller 9 based on stored values.

With sufficient change the value of grain is above or below a threshold grains, whereby it passes through a threshold grain parameter value grain remains at that value or another sufficiently change the value for a certain period of time, the position managed ramp (10a) is change. If the position is managed ramp (10a) to be changed, the time (tn) change the position of the ramp [S] is calculated as the predetermined parameter programmed into the controller 9 according to the following formula:

.

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Where:

L1 = length from the sensor unit to the point y on the conveyor

Ln = length of the point y on the conveyor to a manageable opening slope

v1 = speed of grain [m / s] as it passes sensor unit

v2 = speed of the grain along the conveyor.

n = number of rays through which grain will flow to the appropriate grain silo according to the analysis, for example, in the case of two ramps, n = 2.

tn = time required for a specific volume of grain passing from the sensor unit to the slope.

tlag = "dead time", to be held until confidence in the presence of a constant signal above / below the threshold of grain, in order to avoid fluctuations rays or other means of opening. This lag time depends also on the conveying speed, the size of the conveyor, the mass flow of grain and the distance of each slope of the sensor unit. The delay time is programmed into the controller as one or more presets (for example, for each slope) according to specific dimensions and specifications of the installed devices.

If the sensor unit is installed in the conveyor, the L1 / V1 = 0 as tn will be calculated from the distance sensor unit ramps up / bins (L1 ... n) and the grain speed V2 in the conveyor.

Resolution systems s separation depends on the specific conditions and the flow of grain for each individual installation. The flow of grain through the apparatus is generally carried out at a rate of 0.5 to 2.5 m / s and, preferably, from 1 to 2 m / s.

t1 = L1 / V1 is the time during which a certain mass flow rate (e.g., kg / s) of grain specified quality detected by the sensor unit, the measuring head of which carries out one measurement operation, in general, between 15 and 70 milliseconds and preferably from 30 to 50 milliseconds.

The mass flow of grain (m) through the feed chute 3 or through the grain conveyor 4 is controlled by a metering ramp 5. As the mass flow through the feed chute 3 equals the mass flow of grain through the conveyor 4 (assuming that there should be no leak) , one can calculate the time t1. This value is determined on the basis of the velocity v1 = speed of grain [m / s] from which it passes through the sensor unit 7 and L1 = length from sensor unit 7 to point y on the conveyor 4. The geometry of the grain layer is applied, passing through the sensor unit 7 ensuring that all undergoing massive differentials will be fully engaged in a constant stream of grain. This is ensured by a metering ramp 5.

Using the above equation, we can calculate tn and tlag and introduce them to the controller 9.

For example, suppose that the moisture content is to be analyzed and the grain is subject to separation on the basis of the moisture content therein. Humidity threshold may be set to 12%. Controlled ramp 10a can be set to sound grain having a "low" moisture content, such as (at least 12%) in the hopper 30a, and then the end ramp 10b will supply grain having a "high" moisture content (for example, greater than or equal to 12%) to another silo 30b.

The device 1 can be configured to control the ramp 10a initially in the open or closed position. Assume that the controlled ramp 10a is initially in the open position, and that the sensor unit 7 is located outside the gutter 3 for supply of grain. Grain is continuously fed through the apparatus 1 and quantities of grain are continuously analyzed while passing the measurement area near the sensor unit 7. Assuming that grain is continuously supplied with a low moisture content and thus have a constant grain parameter values, controlled ramp 10a is continuously remain open, and the grain will be supplied to the hopper 30a.

As soon as the controller 9 detects a volume having a high moisture content, it is recorded as a sufficient change in the parameter value of grain, wherein the value of grain passes through the threshold value of the grain, whereby it is above the threshold value of grain, and the controller starts counting the delay time tlag. In addition, the volume of the grain measured continuously until the end of tlag. If at the end tlag it is that subsequent assay volumes grains have a low moisture content, and thus registers an additional sufficient change, whereby the value of grain again passes through the threshold value of grain, with a ramp 10a remains open to allow these quantities of grain with low moisture can escape through the chute 10a driven into the hopper 30a. The delay time will not be counted again until it is registered with the amount of high moisture content, ie sufficient additional change parameter values ​​of grain.

However, if the sequence of measured quantities of grain with a high moisture content, the count starts again tlag and controlled ramp 10a receives a signal from the controller 9 to stay in the "state of alert" to the closure and, thus preparing for a change of position. After tlag in the case of the measurement of volumes of grain with a high moisture content, the controller sends a controlled ramp 10a closing signal, and it will ensure that grain will go through a chute into a hopper 30b 10b for storing grain with a high moisture content.

The time during which 10a is closed, as well tlag + tn, i.e. delay time plus the time required for the passage of the volume of the sensor unit 7 to a controlled ramp 10a. Ramp 10a is continuously kept shut until the controller 9 does not register the volume having a low moisture content, i.e. additional sufficient change. At this stage begins tlag, and the ramp 10a will open if at the end tlag still be recorded amounts to a low moisture content.

The method continues until all the grains will not be analyzed and shared.

The method and apparatus allow for rapid analysis and operative separation of grains. Potential mechanical problems that can be caused by continuous fluctuations ramp 10a, are eliminated by the inclusion of this time lag. This increases the flow of grain through the apparatus. Although it is possible that, due to the inclusion of the delay time small amounts of grain can be routed to the wrong bin, the overall uniformity of the grain divided parties will comply with the technical regulations and standards.

Innings

Grain loading hopper and chute for supplying grain have been described for continuous feeding grain into the apparatus, but it is assumed that it is possible to use other devices with the same function. A downstream delivery means has been described above as a conveyor and it is envisaged that it is possible to use any suitable type of grain conveyor such as a chain conveyor, a bucket elevator or a conveyor belt.

Measurement and analysis

The method and apparatus described in regard to the measurement of protein content and moisture content of the grain. Thresholds of the protein generally will be in the range from 10% to 12.5% ​​dry substance grains, and humidity thresholds, in general, will be between 12% and 18% of the grain weight. The actual threshold value the user chooses. However, it is assumed that other grain parameters, for example, starch extract content, the content of β-glucan, beta-amylase content and content of mycotoxin, can also be measured using this method and apparatus. A method and apparatus are also suitable for measuring all types of grain, such as barley, wheat, corn, rapeseed, rice, malt, sorghum and pellets.

It has been found that for most accurate results, the sensor unit should be mounted at an angle in the range of 90 ° to the dense grain layer to be measured.

The light source, a sensor unit and a spectrometer can be either integrated or a separate component located remotely from each other. Furthermore, the light source and the light detector can be combined in one component (measuring head) as part of the sensor unit.

Measuring head in the sensor unit detects the light reflected by the light source. The rate at which the spectrometer produces an electrical signal dependent on the quality of binding to black and white. PC also controls the automatic reference to black and white. This system is tied to the black / white should be carried out daily until the operation of the device. The stepper motor has a measuring head of the sensor unit in front of a white disk and measures the total relative amount of reflected photons at all wavelengths ("white" = ideally 100% reflection).

Between the measuring head and the white disk a sapphire glass may be provided, sapphire glass identical established between the measuring head and the grain sample passing through the measurement zone. When the white disc replaces the grain sample during binding to white, all the distances between the measuring head and a sapphire crystal, sapphire crystal and a white disk and / or the measuring head and the white disk should be identical to the distances set out in the measuring position. This option ensures that all relevant optical factors such as the focus point, friction coefficient, etc. They will be taken into account in the implementation of binding to white.

Then, the measuring head is moved in front of the black tube, and measured total absorption of emitted photons ("black" = ideally 100% absorption). PC checks the correctness of the completion of the binding before signaling that the device is ready for use.

A suitable combination of sensor unit and spectrometer for emitting light, detecting the reflected light and convert the value of light in the value of grain is the system Zeiss Corona NIR ™, comprising a measuring head OMK 500 (emitter and the light detector without automatic binding to the black / white consisting sensor device, and a spectrometer such as remote system Corona ™, which can perform all of these functions. However, any other device that also performs these functions can also be useful and should be calibrated before use.

The sensor can be installed either in the chute for supplying grain, or the conveyor in any position where a dense layer of the grain will pass the sensor unit at a controlled, constant rate of grain. This is achieved by placing the dispensing ramp after the sensor unit. The spectrometer should be suitable for measuring wavelengths of from 200 to 2000 nm.

Area measurement will depend on the size of the light source and the sensor unit and may vary according to the user's choice.

The apparatus will also comprise a CPU and associated software for evaluating and converting, storing and displaying data.

Separation

Although the apparatus is generally described above as having two exits for separating grain according to what is whether each amount of grain is above or below a certain threshold, it is assumed that the method and apparatus of the invention will also be useful for separating quantities of grain on the basis of a specific parameter range and in this case the device may have more than two outputs. In this embodiment, it is assumed that more than one ramp will be controlled ramp.

In addition, further contemplated that the method and apparatus of the invention will be useful for separating quantities of grain on the basis of two or more parameters. Thus, for example, the grain can be separated on the basis of protein content and moisture content at the same time. In this embodiment, the apparatus would have four exits, one for high protein, high moisture, one for high protein, low moisture, one for low protein, high moisture and one for low protein, low moisture.

In order to avoid the additional delay time for opening and closing the ramp, it must be installed so that the ramp was opened in the flow direction against the flow of grain.

It is found that jamming of the system can be prevented by means of a standard automatic inspection and control. One option to prevent sticking is to leave the terminal ramp open all the time. This provides protection against damage to the grain and / or equipment, especially when the conveyor needs to be restarted at full load in an emergency. Furthermore, the end ramp will allow the conveyor to move at 100% empty throughout its length at the end of the transport operation.

As an alternative to quickly open slopes, between the conveyor and the ramps can be installed any suitable means of opening the door selling and acting under the control of the controller.

In the specification the terms "comprise, comprises, comprised and comprising" or any variation thereof and the terms "include, includes, included and including" or any variation thereof are considered fully interchangeable and allow the widest possible interpretation and vice versa .