Automated Repackaging Device with Articulated Gripping Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual repackaging of packaging units is physically demanding and costly, leading to health issues and inefficiencies due to the need for manual handling and lifting of heavy units.
Innovation Solution
A device with pivoting and linearly movable base elements, equipped with articulated gripping and lifting arms controlled by actuators, allows for automated repackaging by synchronously pivoting and moving packaging units from source to target pallets, using adaptable gripping elements to handle various packaging unit shapes and sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual repackaging is used, then flexibility in handling different packaging units is maintained, but physical strain on operators increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical system with an automated robotic system featuring a movable base element, articulated arms with gripping elements, and computer-controlled actuators. This substitution eliminates physical strain on operators while significantly increasing repacking speed and productivity through automated, high-speed handling of packaging units.
Solution Approach 2:
The repackaging system performs the repacking operation autonomously without human intervention. The computer-controlled robotic system automatically positions the base element, articulates the arms, actuates the gripping elements, and transfers packaging units from source to target pallets, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for manual labor.
2Productivity
If automated repackaging devices are introduced, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system is divided into distinct functional modules: a movable base element for positioning, articulated arms for movement, gripping elements for handling, and a computer control system for coordination. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together to achieve high productivity, and simplifies maintenance and operation despite the overall system complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If manual repackaging is used, then equipment costs are low, but labor costs and health-related costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual labor with an automated robotic system, eliminating the health risks associated with repetitive manual handling of heavy packaging units. While the initial equipment investment is higher, the system provides long-term reliability by removing operators from physically demanding tasks, preventing work-related injuries and health problems.
4Adaptability or versatility
If repackaging is done manually, then adaptability to different packaging formats is maintained through human judgment, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system adapts to different packaging formats by programmatically adjusting parameters such as gripping force, arm articulation angles, base element position, and transfer speed. The computer control system stores and retrieves different parameter sets for various packaging types, enabling rapid adaptation without sacrificing repacking speed or requiring manual judgment.
Data Source
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AI summary
A device for repacking individual items (18) grouped into packaging units (19), formed by a base element (1) pivotable about a vertical axis, to which at least one gripping arm (2) and at least one lifting arm (3) are attached, each having several articulated and controllably movable links (8), wherein a gripping element (9) is arranged at the free end of the gripping arm (2) and a support element (12) is arranged at the free end of the lifting arm (3).