Collaborative Robot Cutting with Hand-Guided Programming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated cutting systems require specialized training and significant capital investment, are not versatile, and are not suitable for high mix, low volume production environments, posing a challenge for smaller manufacturers due to high acquisition costs and the lack of skilled workers.
Innovation Solution
A collaborative robot cutting system that can be intuitively programmed and operated without extensive training, featuring a mobile base and a user interface for graphical programming, allowing relocation without substantial labor or rigging, and includes safety features for operator protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If traditional automated cutting systems are used, then cutting precision and automation are improved, but operator training requirements and system cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables operators to program and operate the cutting system through intuitive graphical interfaces and hand-guided teaching modes, eliminating the need for specialized training. The robot automatically tracks and records operator movements to generate executable programs, allowing any operator to become productive immediately without extensive education or training in computer programming and coding
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex traditional programming interfaces with intuitive graphical user interfaces and hand-guided teaching pendants. The mechanical hand-guided teaching mode allows operators to physically guide the robot through cutting paths, which are then automatically recorded and converted into executable programs, substituting complex programming mechanics with simple physical guidance
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional automated cutting systems are used, then cutting precision is improved, but system mobility and reDeployability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from fixed installation to mobile deployment through the use of a mobile cart with casters. The robotic arm, cutting system, and control components are mounted on a movable platform that can be easily relocated to different workstations or job sites, enabling the precision cutting system to adapt to various production locations and configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile cutting system is designed to serve multiple locations and applications through its relocatable platform. The system can be deployed at different workstations, adapted to various workpiece sizes and types, and reconfigured for different cutting operations, making a single precision cutting system universally applicable across multiple production environments
3Productivity
If traditional automated cutting systems are used, then productivity is improved, but acquisition cost and setup time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the cutting operation into simple, teachable segments through hand-guided instruction. Operators guide the robot through discrete cutting paths and operations that are automatically recorded and stored as separate program segments. This segmentation allows complex cutting tasks to be broken down into manageable, easily programmable units that reduce overall system complexity and cost
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses hand-guided teaching to create physical copies of cutting paths by manually guiding the robot through the desired trajectory. The controller automatically records these physical movements and stores them as digital program copies that can be repeatedly executed, eliminating the need for complex programming while maintaining high productivity through automated repetition
Data Source
AI summary
A collaborative robot cutting system for the assembly, construction, fabrication, and/or the completion of structural components for manufactured assemblies. A method of preparing work pieces and materials for further manufacturing operations employing the intuitive graphical interactive programming features of a robot cutting system user interface to enhance productivity and versatility in high mix, low volume fabrication environments with minimal operator training.