Adaptive Robot Gripping Sequences for Mixed-Goods Order Picking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage and order-picking systems are inflexible and unsuitable for handling a large number of different goods, often requiring manual intervention by warehouse staff, which can be detrimental to their health, especially when handling heavy goods.
Innovation Solution
A method for controlling a robot in a storage and order-picking system that differentiates goods by physical parameters such as dimensional stability, compressive stability, and weight, allowing the robot to adapt its gripping and movement strategies based on the type of good, thereby extending its capabilities to handle diverse goods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a robot system uses a fixed gripping strategy for all goods, then the system structure remains simple, but the system cannot handle diverse goods types effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The robot system dynamically adapts its gripping strategy based on real-time detection of goods properties. The control system modifies gripping parameters such as force, position, and orientation according to the detected goods type, transitioning from a static to a dynamic operation mode that optimizes handling for each specific good
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters including gripping force magnitude, gripper position, and movement speed based on detected goods characteristics. Different goods types trigger different parameter sets, allowing the same robot hardware to effectively handle diverse items by adjusting its operational parameters rather than changing physical structure
2Manufacturing precision
If specialized systems are used for different goods types, then handling precision improves, but the number of specialized systems and overall complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single robot system is designed to perform multiple functions by detecting goods properties and automatically selecting appropriate gripping strategies. The universal robot replaces multiple specialized systems, maintaining high handling precision across different goods types while reducing the total number of systems required
Solution Approach 2:
The robot system autonomously detects goods properties and self-adjusts its gripping parameters without external intervention. The system services itself by making real-time decisions about how to handle each good, eliminating the need for manual configuration or multiple pre-configured specialized systems
3Ease of operation
If manual intervention is used for heavy goods, then flexibility in handling is maintained, but worker health and safety deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The robot system replaces manual mechanical handling with automated robotic manipulation. The robot detects goods properties and applies appropriate gripping forces to handle heavy items, substituting human physical effort with automated mechanical systems that eliminate health risks while maintaining operational flexibility
Data Source
AI summary
A robot system includes a robot having a gripping unit for picking and placing down/throwing goods, wherein the goods are differentiated into multiple types with respect to their dimensional stability, compressive stability, flexural rigidity, strength, their absolute weight and/or specific weight. When the goods are manipulated, the robot and/or the gripping unit are controlled depending on the type determined for the goods. Moreover, a method operates the robot system.