Compact Pallet Handling Device for Machining Centers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handling devices for parts on pallets near machining centers are either bulky or mechanically complex, lacking in compactness and simplicity of manufacture and use.
Innovation Solution
A handling device with a frame, pallet racks, a gripper, and a transfer system that includes a transfer plate capable of moving between an interior and exterior zone, allowing the gripper to position on either side of the transfer plate or pallet carriers for efficient pallet handling and transfer between the device and machining center, using a drive system for orthogonal movements and endless transmission members for precise and safe pallet positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing handling devices are designed to handle pallets near machining centers, then they can perform the required function, but they become bulky or mechanically complex
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional modules: a frame with pallet holders, a gripper with uprights and gripping devices, and a transfer system with a transfer plate. Each module performs a specific function independently, reducing overall complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer plate moves between an inner zone (inside the enclosure) and an outer zone (outside the enclosure) along a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the central aisle. This dimensional movement allows the transfer system to access pallets from multiple positions without requiring complex mechanical structures.
2Reliability
If existing handling devices are designed to handle pallets near machining centers, then they can perform the required function, but they are difficult to manufacture and use
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional modules: a frame with pallet holders, a gripper with uprights and gripping devices, and a transfer system with a transfer plate. Each module performs a specific function independently, reducing overall complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive system automatically moves the uprights along at least two axes orthogonal to each other, and the transfer plate moves between inner and outer zones, enabling automated pallet handling without complex manual operation mechanisms, thus simplifying both manufacture and use.
3Productivity
If the gripper uprights are positionable on either side of the transfer plate or pallet holders, then pallet handling efficiency is improved, but the drive system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive system serves multiple functions: it moves the uprights along at least two axes orthogonal to each other, positions the gripping devices, and enables the transfer plate to move between inner and outer zones. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms, maintaining simplicity while improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The uprights are coupled to a drive system that moves them dynamically along at least two axes orthogonal to each other, allowing flexible positioning on either side of the transfer plate or pallet holders. This dynamic positioning capability enhances pallet handling efficiency without requiring multiple fixed mechanisms.
4Device complexity
If a single loading/unloading and transfer zone is used, then device simplicity is improved, but operational flexibility may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer plate moves between an inner zone (inside the enclosure) and an outer zone (outside the enclosure) along a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the central aisle. This dimensional movement allows the single transfer system to access pallets from multiple positions and perform both loading and unloading operations, maintaining simplicity while providing operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The single transfer system serves multiple functions: it transfers pallets between the gripper and the machining center, moves between inner and outer zones, and supports both loading and unloading operations. This multi-functionality allows a simple single-zone design to maintain operational flexibility.
Data Source
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AI summary
Device (1) for handling parts stored on pallets (30) positionable in the vicinity of a machining center (31), this handling device (1) comprising a frame (2) equipped with pallet holders (3), a gripper (4) and a system (5) for transferring the parts to be processed between the handling device (1) and the machining center (31).The frame (2) delimits an enclosure (6) comprising a central aisle (7) bordered laterally by pallet holders (3), the gripper (4) comprises two uprights (8) equipped with facing gripping members (17) mounted movable up and down along said uprights (8) and a drive system (9) for moving the uprights (8) inside said enclosure (6) along at least two axes (XX', YY') orthogonal to each other, the transfer system (5) comprises a platform (14) mounted movable along a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the central aisle (7) between the inside of the enclosure (6) and the outside of the enclosure (6), and the uprights (8) of the gripper (4) are positionable on one side, on either side of the transfer platform (14), on the other side, on either side of any one of the pallet holders (3).