Conveyor Handling Speed Control to Reduce Robot Waiting Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems for moving objects using robots experience waiting times due to operating at maximum speed, leading to idle times when transfer processes are infrequent.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that adapt the movement speed and/or acceleration of handling devices based on the conveying distance between objects, reducing speed and/or acceleration for longer distances to minimize waiting times and reduce stress, wear, and energy requirements on the handling devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the handling device operates at maximum speed, then productivity is improved, but waiting times occur when transfer processes are infrequent
Solution Approach 1:
The handling device dynamically adjusts its movement speed based on the distance to the next object on the conveyor. When objects are far apart, the device reduces speed to avoid idle waiting; when objects are close, it increases speed to maintain productivity. This dynamic speed adaptation resolves the contradiction between operating at maximum speed and avoiding waiting times.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a conveying distance detection unit (such as a camera or sensor) to continuously monitor the distance to the next object on the conveyor. This feedback information is used by the control unit to adjust the handling device's speed in real-time, ensuring optimal performance without excessive waiting times or energy consumption.
2Productivity
If the handling device moves objects at high speed, then productivity is improved, but stress, wear and energy requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The handling device transitions from static maximum-speed operation to dynamic speed adjustment. By moving at lower speeds when objects are far apart and only increasing speed when necessary, the system significantly reduces energy consumption and mechanical stress while maintaining productivity when conditions allow.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters (speed and acceleration) of the handling device based on the conveying distance. This parameter adaptation allows the device to operate efficiently across varying conditions, reducing energy consumption during low-demand periods while maintaining high productivity when objects are closely spaced.
3Productivity
If the handling device operates continuously at maximum speed, then productivity is improved, but wear and stress on the device increase
Solution Approach 1:
The handling device implements dynamic speed modulation rather than continuous maximum-speed operation. This reduces mechanical stress and wear on components such as motors, gears, and structural elements, thereby improving device reliability and extending its operational lifespan while maintaining high productivity when conditions permit.
Data Source
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AI summary
A device (1) and method for displacing objects. The device (1) comprises a conveyor (2) configured to convey a plurality of objects (100), and a conveying distance detection unit (8) configured to determine a conveying distance (10) between a first object (101) of the plurality of objects (100) to be displaced and a second object (102) of the plurality of objects (100). The first object (101) is to be displaced before the second object (102) is displaced. The device (1) further comprises a handling device (7) configured to displace objects (101, 102) of the plurality of objects (100) to be displaced from the conveyor (2) to a first deposit position (13). The device (1) is configured to determine a movement speed and/or movement acceleration based on the determined conveying distance (10).The handling device (7) is configured to move the second object (102) to be moved at the determined movement speed and/or the determined movement acceleration.