Movable Cart Laser Alignment for Automated Assembly Changeovers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stencil printers and dispensers require manual intervention for routine operations such as changing stencils, replacing solder paste cartridges, and replenishing other items, which is inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A movable cart system with a sensor and laser alignment mechanism that automates the docking and alignment process with the assembly apparatus, enabling automated replacement and replenishment of parts and materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual intervention is used for changing stencils and replacing cartridges, then operational flexibility is maintained, but productivity decreases and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The movable cart system enables self-service operation where the cart automatically docks with the assembly apparatus, sensors detect item positions, and the system autonomously replaces stencils and cartridges without manual intervention, allowing the equipment to service itself during changeovers
Solution Approach 2:
The movable cart acts as an intermediary between storage and the assembly apparatus, serving as an automated delivery system that transports items to the apparatus and facilitates automatic replacement operations, eliminating the need for direct manual handling
2Extent of automation
If a movable cart system with sensor and laser alignment is implemented, then automation extent increases and productivity improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable cart serves multiple functions: it stores multiple items (stencils, cartridges), transports them to the assembly apparatus, aligns itself using sensor-laser systems, and enables automatic replacement. This multi-functionality consolidates several operations into a single integrated system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment and positioning with an automated sensor-laser alignment system that uses optical detection and electronic control to achieve precise docking, substituting human-operated mechanical systems with automated electromechanical systems
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates fully automated changeovers and replenishment processes, reducing manual intervention and improving operational efficiency in stencil printers and dispensers.
Implementation Method 1
directing a laser toward the sensor
Implementation Method 2
the sensor and the laser are configured to align the movable cart with the assembly apparatus
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A system is provided to align a movable cart to an assembly apparatus. The assembly apparatus (10) has at least one item of a plurality of items for replacement within the assembly apparatus. The assembly apparatus includes a docking station. The movable cart (100) is configured to receive a used item and/or provide a new item to the assembly apparatus. The movable cart includes an interface configured to dock within the docking station of the assembly apparatus. The system includes a sensor (120) associated with one of the assembly apparatus and the movable cart and a laser associated with the other of the assembly apparatus and the movable cart. The sensor (120) and the laser are configured to align the movable cart (100) with the assembly apparatus (10) after an initial docking of the movable cart within the docking station of the assembly apparatus.