Portable system for autonomously handing and manufacturing sheet-material components

Abstract

The system 200 includes a receiving unit 102 to receive raw sheet-material. The unit comprises a printing arrangement 210 configured to print processing information on the sheet-material. A manoeuvring unit 104 is operable to receive the printed raw sheet-material 250 from the receiving unit and guide movement of the sheet-material based on the processing information. A machining unit 106 comprising at least one computer numerical control (CNC) machine is operable to receive and process the printed raw sheet-material based on the information, for manufacturing sheet-material components of one or more types. A storage unit 108 stores the components 252 based on their type. The receiving unit may include a forklift 202 for lifting stacked raw sheet-material panels, a first roller arrangement 204, and a scissor lift 206. The printing arrangement may include a cartesian printing station 212 and a second roller arrangement 214 to transfer printed panels to the manoeuvring unit. The manoeuvring unit may include a conveyor belt 222 with a sorting mechanism, for receiving and guiding movement of the panels. The machine may be a CNC router. The storage unit may include shelves 232, a moving platform 234, a display interface 236, and an augmented reality interface 238.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure relates generally to sheet-material, and, more specifically, to a portable system for autonomously handing and manufacturing sheet-material components. BACKGROUND Manufacturing industries are often accompanied by large industrial footprints and require trained professionals to operate heavy and complex machineries. As a solution, contemporary practices often entail establishing factories equipped with Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machinery for material manufacturing processes. The CNC machineries utilize Computer-Aided design (CAD) or Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) based instructions to move various motors and actuators to facilitate material manufacturing processes (such as routing, shaping, drilling, sawing, chiselling and sanding). However, the contemporary practices still lack the feasibility of swift and delicate handling of raw materials with precision within an optimized timeframe. Further, the contemporary practices pose a larger impact on the environment, in terms of carbon emissions, waste generation, energy consumption. Also, there is requirement of trained professionals for installation of CNC based manufacturing systems as well as operation of the CNC based manufacturing systems. Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks. SUMMARY The aim of the present disclosure is to provide a portable system for autonomously handing and manufacturing sheet-material components, to facilitate swift and timely handling of sheet-materials. This invention aims to address the problem of larger manufacturing footprint, extended timeframes and higher environmental impact. The aim of the present disclosure is achieved by introducing efficient and compact constructional features which lead to precise, swift and expediated operation as well as provide ease of transportation. The present disclosure further aims to reduce requirement of specialized trainings in integrating augmented reality operator guidance interface. Advantageous features are set out in the appended dependent claims. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise", "include", "have", and "contain" and variations of these words, for example "comprising" and "comprises", mean "including but not limited to", and do not exclude other components, items, integers or steps not explicitly disclosed also to be present. Moreover, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a portable system for autonomously handing and manufacturing sheet-material components, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of the portable system of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible. In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a portable system for autonomously handing and manufacturing sheet-material components. The portable system comprises a receiving unit operable to receive raw sheet-material, the receiving unit comprises a printing arrangement configured to print a processing information on the raw sheet-material; a manoeuvring unit operable to receive the printed raw sheetmaterial from the receiving unit and guide movement of the printed raw sheet-material based on the processing information; a machining unit comprising at least one computer numerical control (CNC) machine operable to receive and process the printed raw sheet-material based on the processing information for manufacturing the sheet-material components of one or more types; and a storage unit configured to store the sheet-material components based on a type of the sheet-material components. The portable system of the present disclosure relates to a compact and mobile setup capable of independently handling, managing and creating parts from the sheet-material. The portable system, designed for ease of transportation, is enabled to operate without constant human oversight leading to optimized operational efficiency. Typically, the portable system encompasses tasks such as material handling (like moving and positioning) and manufacturing (including cutting and shaping) of components made from various sheet-materials, which may include but not limited to plywood, metal, plastic or glass sheets. The portability enables quick setup in different locations, while the autonomy ensures continuous operation without the need for constant human intervention. Therefore, the portable system of the present disclosure offers benefits such as flexibility, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and versatility, making it suitable for various digital manufacturing and construction sectors requiring the fabrication of components from sheet materials. As mentioned above, the portable system comprises a receiving unit operable to receive raw sheet-material. The receiving unit comprises a printing arrangement configured to print a processing information on the raw sheet-material. The portable system comprises the receiving unit designed to accept raw sheet-material, along with the printing arrangement within the receiving unit responsible for printing processing information directly onto the raw material. The receiving unit enables the portable system to efficiently prepare the raw material for subsequent manufacturing processes by providing essential instructions or data directly onto the sheet-material itself, streamlining the overall manufacturing workflow and ensuring that each sheet is properly identified and processed according to the desired processing information or specification. The term "raw sheet-material" refers to unprocessed or untreated material that comes in the form of sheets. These sheets are typically flat and uniform in thickness, and they serve as the starting point for various manufacturing processes. Examples of raw sheet-material may include plywood sheets, metal sheets, plastic sheets or fibreboard sheets. In an example, the raw sheet-material comprises a plurality of stacked sheetmaterial panels. Specifically, the stacked sheet-material panels can be a pallets of 60 plywood panels, each being 8ftx4ft in dimensions. These plywood panels can be typically used in construction, carpentry, and various manufacturing applications. They serve as the starting point for creating a wide range of products such as furniture, cabinets, flooring, and building structures. Optionally, the receiving unit comprises a forklift for lifting the raw sheetmaterial comprising a plurality of stacked sheet-material panels, a first roller arrangement for receiving and forwarding the plurality of stacked sheet-material panels in an individual panel manner, and a scissor lift for lifting the individual sheet-material panels and feeding them into the printing arrangement. The forklift acts as the initial handler of the raw sheet-material, which is typically positioned adjacent to the roller arrangement within the receiving unit. Once the forklift lifts the stacked sheet-material panels, the forklift places them onto a loading area or platform that serves as a starting point of the first roller arrangement. The first roller arrangement may include rollers or conveyor belts strategically positioned to receive the sheet-material panels from the forklift. These first rollers may be connected to a motor or drive system, allowing them to move and guide the sheet-material panels along a predetermined path in the individual panel manner, meaning, handling each sheet-material panel separately, ensuring that they are transported or processed one at a time to prevent jams or disruptions in the workflow. The separated sheet-material panels are transported along the first roller arrangement to reach the area where the scissor lift is located. The first roller arrangement is connected to the scissor lift by aligning the end of the first roller arrangement with the entrance of the scissor lift platform. The scissor lift platform is designed to elevate and lower, allowing for precise positioning of the sheet-material panels. Once the sheet-material panels reach the end of the roller arrangement, they are fed onto the scissor lift platform, where they are lifted to a desired height for further processing or handling. This seamless connection between the forklift, the first roller arrangement, and scissor lift ensures efficient material handling and transfer of the raw sheet-material within the receiving unit, facilitating the smooth operation of the portable system. Optionally, the printing arrangement comprises a cartesian printing station operable to receive the individual sheet-material panels for printing the processing information thereon, and a second roller arrangement to transfer the printed individual sheet-material panels to the manoeuvring unit. The cartesian printing station may be a specialized printing device designed to apply the processing information onto individual sheet-material panels with high precision. It operates using a cartesian coordinate system, which provides precise control over the movement of the printing mechanism in three dimensions (X, Y, and Z axes). This allows the cartesian printing station to accurately position each panel and print the desired processing information. The printing station may be equipped with inkjet or other printing technology suitable for marking sheet-material surfaces. The second roller arrangement may also include rollers or conveyor belts strategically positioned to transfer the sheet-material panels to the scissor lift. These second rollers may be connected to a motor or drive system, allowing them to move and guide the sheet-material panels along a predetermined path in the individual panel manner, meaning, handling each sheet-material panel separately, ensuring that they are transported or processed one at a time to prevent jams or disruptions in the workflow. In the context of the printing arrangement, the second roller arrangement is responsible for transferring the printed individual sheet-material panels from the cartesian printing station o the manoeuvring unit. The cartesian printing station and the second roller arrangement are connected through an integrated system design, such that once the cartesian printing station completes the printing process on an individual sheet-material panel, these rollers are activated. The second roller arrangement thereafter transports the printed panel to the manoeuvring unit, where it is seamlessly integrated into the next stage of the manufacturing process. The manoeuvring unit is operable to receive the printed raw sheetmaterial from the receiving unit and guide movement of the printed raw sheet-material based on the processing information. For example, the manoeuvring unit comprises a conveyor belt arrangement for receiving the printed individual sheet-material panels, and the conveyor belt arrangement comprises a sorting mechanism for guiding movement of the printed individual sheet-material panels based on the processing information. Notably, the manoeuvring unit is designed to receive the printed raw sheet-material from the receiving unit and guide its movement based on the processing information. Typically, the manoeuvring unit serves as the intermediary between the printing process and subsequent stages of the manufacturing process. The manoeuvring unit ensures that the printed panels are directed to the appropriate location for further processing or handling. For example, the conveyor belt arrangement, which is a system of belts or rollers designed to transport the printed individual sheetmaterial panels, i.e., receive the printed panels from the receiving unit and moves them along a predetermined path within the portable system. Further, the sorting mechanism integrated to guide the movement of the printed individual sheet-material panels based on the processing information. The sorting mechanism is responsible for directing each printed panel to its designated destination or next stage of processing based on the processing information printed on each panel, ensuring that they are sorted and routed correctly within the system. The machining unit comprising at least one computer numerical control (CNC) machine operable to receive and process the printed raw sheetmaterial based on the processing information for manufacturing the sheet-material components of one or more types. In an example, the at least one CNC machine of the machining unit comprises a CNC router operable based on the processing information. Typically, the machining unit is a key component of the portable system responsible for processing the printed raw sheet-material to manufacture sheet-material components. The machining unit houses at least one computer numerical control (CNC) machine, based on load handling capacity of the portable system, i.e., the machining unit may include multiple CNC machines enabling the portable system to handle a diverse range of manufacturing tasks simultaneously, thereby increasing production efficiency and throughput. The CNC machine within the machining unit receives and processes the printed raw sheet-material based on the processing information provided. The CNC is capable of manufacturing sheet-material components of one or more types, meaning it can produce a variety of components based on different designs or specifications. In an example, the CNC machine can be a CNC router, which utilizes rotary cutting tools to remove material from a workpiece, typically used for cutting and shaping sheet materials such as wood, plastic, or metal. Alternative, the CNC machine can be a CNC Plasma Cutter, and CNC Laser Cutter, CNC Waterjet Cutter and the like. Optionally, the sheet-material components refer to the final products fabricated from various types of sheet materials, such as plywood, metal, plastic, or glass panels, typically used in construction, manufacturing, or assembly processes. For example, the sheet-material components may include but not limited to window panel, door panel, tabletops, cabinet doors, metal brackets, plastic covers, glass pane and the like. Optionally, the processing information comprises information associated with the sorting mechanism to guide movement of the printed individual sheet-material panels towards the CNC router, and information associated with the CNC router for instructing machining process and dimensions to manufacture the sheet-material components from the printed individual sheet-material panels. The term "processing information" as used herein refers to data and instructions that guide the manufacturing processes, including details about sorting the printed individual sheet-material panels, the CNC router operations, machining parameters, dimensions, and specifications necessary for producing sheet-material components accurately and efficiently. In one aspect, the processing information enables in coordinating operations between the sorting mechanism and the CNC router. The sorting mechanism relies on processing information to effectively manage the movement of printed individual sheet-material panels to a desired CNC machine. For example, the sorting mechanism may rely on instructions generated by a control system or software, which interprets processing information including tooling requirements, cutting parameters, and machining instructions. The control system communicates relevant instructions to the sorting mechanism, directing it to accurately route panels towards the designated CNC router based on their machining requirements. This ensures that panels are routed to the CNC router only when necessary, optimizing the manufacturing process and minimizing unnecessary movements. For example, if a panel requires a specific machining operation achievable solely with the CNC router, such as intricate cutting or shaping, then only the sorting mechanism ensures its routing to the CNC router. This seamless integration of information between the sorting mechanism and the CNC router facilitates efficient and precise manufacturing of sheet-material components, enhancing productivity and quality within the manufacturing process. In another aspect, the processing information acts as instruction set specifically printed on the individual sheet-material panels for the CNC router. It essentially tells the CNC machine what to do and how to do it to transform individual sheet material panels into desired sheet-material components. For example, the processing information can be machining instructions, such as drilling, cutting, milling, slotting, pocketing and the like. Similarly, the processing information can be dimensional data, such as diameter of a drilling hole, radius of curve cutting, length of straight cutting, depth of cutting and the like. The storage unit is configured to store the sheet-material components based on a type of the sheet-material components. Typically, the storage unit is structured in a way that allows it to categorize and segregate sheet-material components according to their variations or types, such as size, shape, or function. For instance, in a manufacturing setting producing furniture components from plywood, the storage unit could have designated sections or shelves for storing different types of components, such as door panel, window panel, or tabletops. Optionally, the storage unit is interactive in nature, i.e., engages with users or operators in a dynamic and responsive manner, facilitating seamless interaction and efficient operation. The storage unit incorporates features and technologies that enable two-way communication between the storage system and users, allowing for input, feedback, and real-time adjustments. For example, an interactive storage unit may include touch-screen interfaces or voice recognition systems that enable users to input commands or retrieve information. Additionally, it may incorporate sensors or cameras that detect user interactions or monitor inventory levels, providing feedback or alerts as needed. Optionally, the storage unit comprises a plurality of shelves designed to accommodate sheet-material components, a moving platform for placing and retrieving components from the plurality of shelves, a display interface connected to the shelves to manage inventory information, and an augmented reality interface to assist operators in handling and processing the sheet-material components for further processing. Optionally, the plurality of shelves provides organized storage space for sheet-material components, allowing operators to easily locate and access items as needed. The plurality of shelves (or storage unit) may be constructed using various materials such as wood, metal, or plastic, with their organization optimized to accommodate sheet-material components effectively. The plurality of shelves may define space of varying sizes for accommodating the sheet-material components of different types. Optionally, the moving platform enhances accessibility within the storage unit. Typically, the moving platform consists of a motorized platform mounted on tracks or rails, allowing it to move horizontally or vertically within the storage unit. The platform enables in placing and retrieving the sheet-material components from various shelves based on the space availability of the plurality of shelves. For example, when retrieving the sheet-material components, the moving platform moves to a desired shelf level, aligning position with a required sheet-material component and thereafter easily accessing the sheet-material components for removal. Similarly, when placing the sheet-material components back into the shelves, the platform moves to the appropriate shelf level, aligning position with an appropriate shelf for placing the sheet-material components. In another aspect, operators can control the movement of the platform either manually or through automated systems for handing the sheet-material components. Optionally, the display interface refers to a visual interface integrated into the storage unit that provides real-time information about the inventory of the sheet-material components. The display interface may consist of digital screens or monitors strategically placed near the shelves. The display interface serves as a user-interactive tool for operators to access inventory data, such as component quantities, locations, and status. Further, operators can interact with the display interface to view inventory levels, track component movements, and receive alerts or notifications regarding stock levels or replenishment needs. Optionally, the augmented reality (AR.) interface refers to a technology that overlays digital information onto a real-world environment to enhance operator guidance and workflow efficiency. For example, the AR interface typically consists of a combination of hardware and software components designed to overlay digital information or imagery onto the real-world environment. The hardware component may include devices such as headsets, glasses, or smartphones equipped with cameras, sensors, and display screens. These devices capture the real-world environment and overlay virtual elements, such as text, graphics, or animations, onto the user's view in real-time. Typically, the AR interface provides operators with interactive visual cues, instructions, and information overlaid onto their physical surroundings. For example, operators wearing AR-enabled glasses can see virtual indicators or labels directly on the sheet-material components, guiding them on proper handling techniques, processing steps, or assembly instructions. The AR interface allows the operators to accurately locate sheet-material components, identify their attributes, and perform tasks with precision and efficiency. Accordingly, the AR interface bridges the gap between digital information and physical operations, enabling seamless interaction and improving operator productivity in handling and processing the sheet-material components for further processing (associated with the digital manufacturing and construction sectors). The term "further processing" refers to a set of steps involved in handling the sheetmaterial components to make a final product, such as a table, a cabinet and the like. Optionally, the portable system may include a server arrangement for controlling the entire operation for manufacturing of the sheet-material components from the raw sheet-material, i.e., the server arrangement serves as a central processing unit responsible for orchestrating and regulating functions of all the units. For exmaple, the server arrangement may be equipped with specialized software and connected to all the units of the portable system through a network (wired or wireless) or communication interface. The server arrangement may receive input data from sensors and operators, thereafter processes this input data, and sends instructions to the individual units to coordinate their actions. For example, the server arrangement may receive information about incoming raw materials from the receiving unit, optimize the routing and movement of materials using the manoeuvring unit, control the machining processes performed by the machining unit, and manage the storage and retrieval of finished components in the storage unit. Specifically, the processing information may be provided to the cartesian printing station by the server arrangement. The processing information may be generated based on input data such as design specifications, material properties, and manufacturing requirements. The server arrangement thereafter receives the porcessing information from various sources, including CAD / CAM software, user input, or pre-programmed instructions. Once received, the server arrangement translates this information into printing instructions for the cartesian printing station. These instructions specify details such as component dimensions, shapes, labeling, and any other relevant data to be printed onto the raw sheetmaterial. Through real-time monitoring, data analysis, and decisionmaking algorithms, the server arrangement may ensure efficient and accurate execution of the manufacturing process, maximizing productivity, quality, and safety. Optionally, the portable system comprises a waste management arrangement operatively coupled to the machining unit for managing waste produced during manufacturing of the sheet-material components from the printed individual sheet-material panels. In an example, the waste management arrangement in the context of machining sheetmaterial components could involve an integration of a waste collection system within the machining unit. The waste management arrangement may consist of suction or vacuum devices that capture and collect waste material, such as wood shavings or metal chips, generated during the machining process. The collected waste is then transported through a series of conveyors or pipes to a designated waste storage or disposal area. Additionally, the waste management arrangement may include sorting mechanisms to segregate recyclable materials from non-recyclable waste for appropriate disposal or recycling. Overall, the waste management arrangement ensures efficient and responsible handling of waste materials to minimize environmental impact and maintain a clean and safe manufacturing environment. Optionally, the portable system further comprises a platform for supporting the receiving unit, the manoeuvring unit, the machining unit and the storage unit thereon, and an enclosure for covering the receiving unit, the manoeuvring unit, the machining unit and the storage unit. Optionally, the platform can be a sturdy metal frame with adjustable legs for stability. The platform could be constructed using welded steel or aluminium sections to provide strength and durability while remaining lightweight for portability. Additionally, the platform could have built-in channels or slots for routing cables and hoses, ensuring a neat and organized setup. The platform serves as thecentral support structure, onto which the receiving unit, manoeuvring unit, machining unit, and storage unit are securely mounted or placed. The units are positioned according to the layout and functional requirements of the portable system. Optionally, the enclosure serves as a protective shell constructed from durable materials such as steel, aluminum, or reinforced plastic. The enclosure provides protection during the movement of the portable system from one place to other.. The enclosure shields the internal components from external elements like dust, debris, and moisture, ensuring their longevity and reliable operation. Additionally, the enclosure may contain emissions, noise, and hazards generated during operation, maintaining a safe and controlled environment. Moreover, the enclosure may include features for mobility, such as handles or lifting points, facilitating transportation and deployment to different locations. Optionally, the portable system further comprises a wheel arrangement mounted on the platform. The wheel arrangement may include a set of wheels installed on a base . For exmaple, the wheel arrangements' base strategically mounted to a bottom surface of the platform, allowing the entire portable system to be easily moved or transported from one location to another. Moreover, the wheel arrangement is detachable, therefore the base of the wheel arrangement is only mounted on the platform when there is need to relocate the entire portable system, otherwise the wheel arrangement remains detachable from the portable system. The wheel arrangement enhances the portability of the portable system, enabling operators to maneuver it across various surfaces with minimal effort. The wheel arrangement is particularly useful in situations where the portable system needs to be relocated frequently or transported between different work sites. Referring to FIG. 1, illustrated is a block diagram of a portable system 100 for autonomously handing and manufacturing sheet-material components, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the portable system 100 includes a receiving unit 102, a manoeuvring unit 104, a machining unit 106 and a storage unit 108. FIG. 2 illustrates is a schematic illustration of the portable system 100 of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the receiving unit 102 includes a forklift 202, a first roller arrangement 204 and a scissor lift 206. The receiving unit 102 further includes a printing arrangement 210 having a cartesian printing station 212 and a second roller arrangement 214. The manoeuvring unit 104 comprises a conveyor belt 222 having a sorting mechanism (not shown in figure 2). The machining unit 106 is shown to be a CNC router. The storage unit 108 includes a plurality of shelves 232, a moving platform 234, a display interface 236 and an augmented reality interface 238. 5 Further, the portable system 100 is shwon to include a platform 240, an enclosure 242 and a wheel arrangement 244. Also, the portable system 100 is shown with a printed raw sheet-material panel 250 positioned over the conveyor belt 222 and a sheet-material components 252 stored in one of the plurality of shelves 232.

Claims

1. A portable system for autonomously handing and manufacturing sheet-material components, the portable system comprising:a receiving unit operable to receive raw sheet-material, the receiving unit comprises a printing arrangement configured to print a processing information on the raw sheet-material;a manoeuvring unit operable to receive the printed raw sheetmaterial from the receiving unit and guide movement of the printed raw sheet-material based on the processing information;a machining unit comprising at least one computer numerical control (CNC) machine operable to receive and process the printed raw sheet-material based on the processing information for manufacturing the sheet-material components of one or more types; anda storage unit configured to store the sheet-material components based on a type of the sheet-material components.

2. The portable system of claim 1, wherein the receiving unit comprisesa forklift for lifting the raw sheet-material comprising a plurality of stacked sheet-material panels,a first roller arrangement for receiving and forwarding the plurality of stacked sheet-material panels in an individual panel manner,a scissor lift for lifting the individual sheet-material panels and feeding them into the printing arrangement.

3. The portable system of claim 2, wherein the printing arrangement comprisesa cartesian printing station operable to receive the individual sheetmaterial panels for printing the processing information thereon, anda second roller arrangement to transfer the printed individual sheet-material panels to the manoeuvring unit.

4. The portable system of claim 3, wherein the manoeuvring unit comprises a conveyor belt arrangement for receiving the printed individual sheet-material panels, the conveyor belt arrangement comprises a sorting mechanism for guiding movement of the printed individual sheet-material panels based on the processing information.

5. The portable system of claim 4, wherein the at least one CNC machine of the machining unit comprises a CNC router operable based on the processing information.

6. The portable system of claim 5, wherein the processing information comprisesinformation associated with the sorting mechanism to guide movement of the printed individual sheet-material panels towards the CNC router, andinformation associated with the CNC router for instructing machining process and dimensions to manufacture the sheet-material components from the printed individual sheet-material panels.

7. The portable system of claim 6, wherein the storage unit comprises a plurality of shelves designed to accommodate sheet-material components,a moving platform for placing and retrieving components from the plurality of shelves,a display interface connected to the shelves to manage inventory information, andan augmented reality interface to assist operators in handling and processing the sheet-material components for further processing.

8. The portable system of claim 6, further comprising a waste management arrangement operatively coupled to the machining unit for managing waste produced during manufacturing of the sheet-material components from the printed individual sheet-material panels.

59. The portable system according to claim 1, further comprising- a platform for supporting the receiving unit, the manoeuvring unit, the machining unit and the storage unit thereon, and- an enclosure for covering the receiving unit, the manoeuvring unit, the 10 machining unit and the storage unit.

10. The portable system according to claim 9, further comprising a wheel arrangement mounted on the platform.

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