Automated Cover Removal in Controlled Enclosures
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In controlled environment enclosures, the removal of container covers often requires human intervention via gloves, which poses a risk of puncture and is inefficient, especially when combined with the need for decontamination and sterilization processes.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method utilizing an articulated arm apparatus and a rotary gripping apparatus to remove container covers without human intervention, where the articulated arm moves the container while holding the gripping area stationary, and the gripping apparatus positions and rotates to grip and remove the cover along a predetermined path, minimizing human interaction and risk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If human intervention via gloves is used to remove container covers, then the operation can be performed manually, but the risk of puncture increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated self-service operation where the robotic arm with gripping device removes container covers without human intervention. The automated system performs the cover removal task independently, eliminating the need for operators to wear gloves and manually handle covers, thus resolving both the safety risk and efficiency issues simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical system (human hands with gloves) with an automated robotic mechanical system. The robotic arm equipped with a gripping device substitutes human operators to perform cover removal, eliminating puncture risks while maintaining continuous operational capability and improved efficiency
2Reliability
If automated equipment is introduced to remove covers, then human intervention and puncture risk are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated cover removal system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a robotic arm for positioning and movement, a gripping device for securing the cover, and a control system for coordination. This modular segmentation manages complexity by breaking down the automated function into manageable, independent components that can be controlled and maintained separately
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic arm and gripping device are designed as universal components that can handle various container cover types and configurations. The gripping device can adapt to different cover sizes and shapes, and the robotic arm can position components at various locations within the enclosure, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices and thereby managing overall system complexity
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention involves removing container covers within a controlled environment enclosure without using gloves. Apparatus has articulated arm apparatus and gripping apparatus and may further comprise controller. Articulated arm apparatus may be configurable for holding and moving container in three dimensions; and gripping apparatus may be configured for gripping and/or moving container cover sealing the container. Method comprises moving container using articulated arm apparatus while holding gripping area of container cover substantially stationary using gripping apparatus, optionally moving the gripping apparatus. Apparatus may further comprise sensor configured for supplying information to controller for determining location of container cover gripping area and orientation of container cover. Method may further comprise inspecting container cover using sensor. Container may be moved along path and within space determined by controller.