Dual Robot Arm Package Handling for Mixed Container Unloading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic unloading systems are limited in speed and precision when handling a mix of differently sized or shaped packages, necessitating improvements for enhanced adaptability and efficiency in containerized shipping.
Innovation Solution
An arrangement comprising two robot arms, an arm suspension frame, a conveyor system, and a control unit that allows individual or collaborative movement of the robot arms, with a supporting system for moving the suspension frame in and out of the container, utilizing tracks, telescopic mechanisms, and grippers for various package handling scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single robotic arm is used for unloading packages, then the system structure is simple, but the speed and precision are limited when handling mixed packages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple robotic arms (at least two) into a single coordinated system to handle packages simultaneously. This merging of multiple robotic units enables parallel operation, increasing unloading speed and precision without proportionally increasing system complexity, as the arms are controlled through a unified control unit that coordinates their movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system is segmented into multiple independent robotic arms, each capable of independent movement and package handling. This segmentation allows each arm to specialize in specific tasks or operate in parallel, improving overall productivity while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
2Ease of operation
If robotic arms are mounted at ground level, then installation is simple, but access to packages inside closed volumes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of mounting robotic arms at ground level and having them reach upward, the patent inverts the mounting approach by suspending the robotic arms from an overhead arm suspension frame. This inversion allows the arms to access packages from above, providing superior access to closed volumes and containers without the limitations of ground-level mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional ground-level operation to three-dimensional overhead suspension, allowing robotic arms to access packages from multiple angles and depths within closed volumes. This dimensional change enables the arms to reach into containers and enclosed spaces more effectively.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an arrangement 1 for unloading and/or loading packages 2 from/to a transport container 3. The arrangement comprises at least two robot arms 10; an arm suspension frame 20 configured to support the at least two robot arms; a conveyor arrangement 30; and a supporting system 40 connected to the arm suspension frame. The supporting system allow the arm suspension frame to be moved in and out of the transport container. The two robot arms move packages between the transport container and the conveyor arrangement. The arrangement further comprises a control unit 50 configured to selectively individually control the movement such that said at least two robot arms move individual packages, or to individually control the movement such that said robot arms collaborate when moving one package. The present disclosure further relates to a method and use of the arrangement.