Autonomous Transport Device Precision Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional assembly systems, including conveyor systems and automated guided vehicles (AGVs), are not accurate enough for precision assembly workstations, requiring additional infrastructure and equipment for component positioning, which increases costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A transport system utilizing autonomous or semi-autonomous AGVs with onboard control systems and sensors to navigate and position components directly at workstations, allowing for precise placement without the need for large infrastructure or auxiliary equipment like manipulators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional floor-mounted conveyor systems are used to transport components, then components can be moved along a fixed path, but the system requires large heavy infrastructure and the pallets are confined to fixed paths making it difficult to remove or insert pallets
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static floor-mounted conveyors to dynamic autonomous vehicles that can move freely along flexible paths. The autonomous vehicles autonomously navigate to workstations and can be easily inserted or removed from the system, eliminating the fixed infrastructure constraints while maintaining continuous component transport capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical conveyor infrastructure with autonomous vehicles equipped with sensors and control systems. Instead of components being被动ly moved by powered rollers or belts, the autonomous vehicles actively navigate and position themselves at workstations using guidance devices and onboard controls
2Manufacturing precision
If automated guided vehicles with sophisticated guidance devices are used, then maneuverability and accuracy are improved, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different levels of guidance technology to different autonomous vehicles based on their specific requirements. Not all vehicles need the most sophisticated laser scanners and GPS systems - the guidance accuracy is tailored to the specific workstation and component being transported, optimizing cost while maintaining required precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs multiple guidance methods with varying precision levels that can be selected based on requirements. The system can switch between different guidance parameters and accuracy levels depending on the specific application, allowing cost-effective deployment without sacrificing necessary positioning accuracy
3Adaptability or versatility
If AGVs are used to move components to predetermined destinations, then maneuverability is improved, but additional equipment like manipulators is still required for transfer to fixtures, increasing infrastructure and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the transport function and positioning function into a single autonomous vehicle system. The autonomous vehicle not only transports components but also directly positions them at the workstation using its maneuverability and onboard positioning capabilities, eliminating the need for separate manipulator devices and reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The autonomous vehicles are designed with multi-functionality, serving both as transport carriers and as positioning devices. They can autonomously navigate to various workstations and directly place components without requiring dedicated transfer equipment, making the system more versatile and reducing the total number of devices needed
Data Source
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AI summary
A transport system and method useful for autonomously or semi-autonomously transporting and positioning materials or components in an industrial facility. In one example in use for passenger vehicle body assembly, a transport device includes a lift device and first and second build devices for alternately supporting a workpiece. The transport device includes a clearance opening for passage by the second build device along the path of travel. The transport device positions the first build device and workpiece over the second build device and deposits the workpiece on the lower second build device for processing. When the process is complete, the first build device re-engages the workpiece for movement to another workstation.