Conveying Line Control Architecture for Flexible Path Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional conveying lines require re-planning and rewriting of logic programs for functional changes, leading to long adjustment times and high costs due to inflexible layouts and dynamic adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A control system comprising an upper computer, general controller, and unit controllers for each conveying unit, allowing for flexible material conveying without program rewriting by generating and updating conveying paths based on material requirements and layout data, and configuring interfaces between sensors and actuators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional customized conveying lines are used to improve production efficiency, then production efficiency is improved, but the adjustment time and cost increase when functional requirements change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the conveying module functions configurable and adjustable through software parameters rather than fixed hardware designs. The conveying modules can dynamically change their operational characteristics (linear, arc, shunt, reverse, buffer) by modifying control parameters, allowing the system to adapt to different production requirements without physical reconfiguration or program rewriting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by using a parameterized control approach where conveying module behaviors are defined by configurable parameters. Different conveying functions are achieved by setting different parameter values rather than rewriting control logic. This allows rapid adjustment of conveying line functions by simply changing parameters, significantly reducing adjustment time while maintaining high production efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional conveying lines are customized for specific scenarios, then functional requirements are met, but the complexity of re-planning and rewriting programs increases when adjustments are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing conveying modules that can perform multiple functions (linear conveying, arc conveying, shunting, reversing, buffering) within a single standardized hardware platform. The same physical module can be reconfigured for different functions by changing control parameters, eliminating the need for specialized modules for each function and reducing overall system complexity while improving adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamics to enable the conveying modules to transition between different functional states dynamically. Rather than requiring static, purpose-built modules for each function, the system allows modules to change their operational mode on-demand through parameter adjustment, making the control system more adaptable and less complex.
3Manufacturing precision
If fixed logic control programs are written on PLC for specific conveying tasks, then control precision is maintained, but the time and cost for rewriting programs during adjustments increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements parameter changes as the core mechanism for maintaining control precision during adjustments. Instead of rewriting control programs, the system preserves precise control by adjusting predefined parameters that govern module behavior. This approach maintains manufacturing precision while dramatically reducing adjustment costs and time, as parameter modification is far simpler and less error-prone than program rewriting.
Data Source
AI summary
The embodiments of the present application provide a control system for a conveying line, a conveying line and a control method for a conveying line, the conveying line includes at least one conveying unit, the control system includes: at least one unit controller, a general controller and an upper computer, the unit controller one-to-one corresponds to the conveying unit, the unit controller is fixed in the corresponding conveying unit, the upper computer generates conveying path data according to a material conveying requirement and layout data of the conveying unit, the general controller is configured to receive the conveying path data, and is further configured to receive material location data sent by the unit controller and generate a control instruction for the unit controller according to the material location data and the conveying path data, and the unit controller controls the conveying unit according to the control instruction.