Dynamic Communication Switching for Automated Warehouse Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing semiconductor transfer systems require complex and time-consuming wiring changes when attaching or detaching an automated warehouse from processing equipment, which complicates the communication setup and hampers efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A transfer system with a communication apparatus that includes a switch to dynamically change the connection destination between controllers and communication terminals, allowing the automated warehouse to be attached and detached without rewiring, and enabling wireless communication to simplify the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the automated warehouse is made attachable and detachable with respect to the processing equipment, then the flexibility and adaptability of the system is improved, but the wiring complexity and time required for attachment/detachment operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic switching mechanism that automatically changes the communication connection destination based on whether the automated warehouse is attached or detached. The switching means responds to attachment/detachment events, dynamically routing communications between the processing equipment and either the automated warehouse or the transfer vehicle, thereby managing wiring complexity while maintaining adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a switching means as an intermediary component that mediates between the processing equipment and the variable configuration (automated warehouse or transfer vehicle). This intermediary manages the communication routing, simplifying the overall wiring structure by providing a single interface that adapts to different operational modes
2Reliability
If communication terminals are arranged around the traveling rail and above loading ports, then the communication coverage is improved, but the number of communication terminals and wiring complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the communication terminals multi-functional by enabling them to serve different purposes depending on the operational mode. The same communication terminals arranged around the traveling rail and above loading ports are used for communicating with either the automated warehouse or the transfer vehicle, eliminating the need for separate communication infrastructure for each mode
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic routing where the communication terminals automatically direct communications to the appropriate destination (automated warehouse or transfer vehicle) based on the current operational state. This dynamic behavior maintains comprehensive communication coverage while reducing the effective number of active communication terminals at any given time
3Adaptability or versatility
If wiring switching is required when attaching or detaching the automated warehouse, then the adaptability is improved, but the time required for attachment/detachment operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary configuration where the switching means is pre-configured to automatically respond to attachment and detachment events. The system is prepared in advance with the switching logic in place, so that when the automated warehouse is attached or detached, the communication routing changes automatically without requiring manual wiring operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the system to self-manage the communication routing changes during attachment and detachment operations. The switching means automatically detects the operational state and redirects communications without human intervention, making the system self-sufficient in managing its own configuration changes and eliminating time-consuming manual wiring tasks
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention makes an automated warehouse (10) attachable and detachable in front of a processing equipment, without requiring an operation to change the wiring of a first controller (20) when attaching and detaching the automated warehouse (10). The automated warehouse (10) is provided so as to be attachable and detachable in front of the apparatus including a first loading port (12) and a first controller (20), the automated warehouse (10) including a second loading port (16) for transferring an article between a transfer vehicle (6) and a second controller (22). Furthermore, a communication terminal disposed within a range allowing communication with the transfer vehicle for an article, and a communication apparatus (30) connected with the communication terminal are provided. The communication apparatus (30) has a switch for switching a connection destination of the first controller (20) between the second controller (22) and the communication terminal (30).