Carrier Carrying Multiple Functional Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing manufacturing systems require multiple carriers to manage various functional modules, leading to increased complexity and costs, as each module needs to be transported separately, which can cause delays and inefficiencies in the manufacturing process.

Innovation Solution

A manufacturing system that includes a carrier with a coupling portion capable of carrying multiple functional modules, controlled by a system that selects and instructs the carrier to carry the necessary modules based on the required functions for the manufacturing apparatuses, reducing the number of carriers needed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple carriers are used to transport different functional modules separately, then each module can be transported independently, but the number of carriers increases and system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIndependent module transport capabilityVSAvoidNumber of carriers
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functional modules (parts feeding unit, tray feeding unit, collective exchange unit) onto a single carrier, allowing the carrier to transport multiple different modules simultaneously. This merging approach reduces the total number of carriers needed while maintaining the capability to transport various module types independently when required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The carrier is designed as a universal platform capable of accommodating and transporting different types of functional modules through standardized coupling mechanisms. This multi-functionality allows one carrier to perform the roles previously requiring multiple specialized carriers, reducing system complexity while preserving adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple carriers are deployed to handle different functional modules, then module transport flexibility is maintained, but management costs and operational delays increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveModule transport flexibilityVSAvoidManufacturing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

By merging multiple functional modules onto a single carrier, the system reduces the coordination overhead and management complexity associated with multiple carriers. The carrier can efficiently transport multiple modules in one trip, reducing operational delays and improving manufacturing productivity while maintaining transport flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If separate carriers are used for each functional module, then transport operations are simplified, but the number of carriers and associated costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveTransport operation simplicityVSAvoidNumber of carriers
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The universal carrier design with standardized coupling portions allows for simplified transport operations while reducing the total number of carriers needed. The carrier can be configured to transport different module combinations based on production requirements, maintaining operational simplicity while optimizing carrier utilization and reducing quantity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20230292481A1Manufacturing system, manufacturing method, control system, and control method
Publication Date: 2023.09.14 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
  • US20230292481A1 patent drawing
  • US20230292481A1 patent drawing
  • US20230292481A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A manufacturing system according to the present disclosure includes one or more manufacturing apparatuses, a carrier, and a control system. Each of the one or more manufacturing apparatuses performs predetermined work on a board. The carrier carries a burden. The control system controls carrying work by the carrier. The burden includes a plurality of functional modules. Each of the plurality of functional modules provides a predetermined function for the one or more manufacturing apparatuses. The carrier includes a coupling portion to be coupled to any of the plurality of functional modules. The control system has at least one functional module, selected from the plurality of functional modules and coupled to the coupling portion, carried by the carrier.