Fastener supply system and method

The fastener supply system automates fastener distribution across multiple manufacturing cells using a robotic manipulator and transport structure, addressing the need for continuous operation and reducing downtime in manufacturing systems.

JP7869145B2Active Publication Date: 2026-06-02KUKA SYSTEMS NORTH AMERICA LLC
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
JP Β· JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
KUKA SYSTEMS NORTH AMERICA LLC
Filing Date
2021-04-22
Publication Date
2026-06-02

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional manufacturing systems require manual refilling or replacement of fastener magazines in manufacturing cells, necessitating line stoppages, and there is a need for improved systems to automate fastener distribution across multiple cells.

Method used

A fastener supply system comprising a robotic manipulator, fastener reservoir, sensor assembly, and transport structure with tracks and carriers, enabling automated distribution of fasteners from a single loading point to multiple manufacturing cells based on demand information.

Benefits of technology

Enables continuous operation of manufacturing lines by automating fastener distribution, reducing downtime and improving efficiency through precise, demand-driven delivery of fasteners to various cells.

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Abstract

A fastener supply system (16) and method for automatically supplying fasteners (24) to a plurality of different manufacturing cells (14b) within a manufacturing line (10) from a single loading point. The fastener supply system (16) includes a fastener distribution assembly (20) and a transport assembly (22) for selecting and delivering fasteners (24) to the manufacturing cells (14b). Individual fasteners (24) are selected from fastener reservoirs (26a, 26b) by a robotic manipulator (30) of the fastener distribution assembly (20) and placed onto fastener carriers (34) supported on a transport structure (32) extending between the fastener distribution assembly (20) and the manufacturing cells (14b). The fastener carriers (34) are controlled to move along the track (32) to deliver one or more fasteners (24) to the manufacturing cells (14b).
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Citation Information

Patent Citations

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    JP2009220230A

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    JP2020028972A