End Effector Cleaner for Sealant Dispensing Robots
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for effective cleaning devices and systems to remove excess sealant from the end effector of a sealant dispensing robot, as residual sealant can interfere with the application process and cause unwanted build-ups on vehicle bodies.
Innovation Solution
An end effector cleaner system comprising a first spool, a second spool, a medium for removing excess sealant, a support member, a motor for rotating the second spool, and sensors for detecting the presence and dimension of the medium, which automatically removes excess sealant by rotating the second spool to take up soiled ribbon and extend clean ribbon for continuous cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual cleaning of the end effector is performed between cycles, then excess sealant can be removed, but the production speed is reduced due to manual intervention time
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs an automated cleaning mechanism where the end effector cleans itself by contacting the medium between cycles. The medium is automatically advanced and rewound, eliminating the need for manual cleaning intervention while maintaining continuous operation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning medium is pre-positioned and automatically advanced to the cleaning position before the end effector returns between cycles. This preliminary preparation ensures immediate cleaning action is available when the end effector contacts the medium, maximizing production speed.
2Productivity
If automated cleaning system is implemented, then production speed is enhanced, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system is integrated with the existing end effector and medium handling infrastructure. The medium serves dual purposes as both operational material and cleaning agent, while the spool and advancement mechanism are combined with the existing dispensing system controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The medium serves multiple functions: it is used for sealant application during the cycle and for cleaning between cycles. The same medium path and support structures serve both dispensing and cleaning operations, reducing the need for separate dedicated cleaning components.
3Reliability
If medium is continuously advanced and rewound, then clean surface is always available for cleaning, but medium consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The medium advancement and rewinding occurs periodically between production cycles rather than continuously. The medium is advanced to a fresh position only when needed for the next cleaning operation, allowing the same medium to be reused across multiple cycles until it becomes saturated with sealant residue.
Data Source
AI summary
An end effector cleaner for removing excess sealant from an end effector is provided. The end effector cleaner includes a first spool, a second spool, a medium for removing excess sealant from the end effector, a support member configured to support a portion of the medium, a motor for rotating the second spool, an advancement sensor for detecting a presence of the end effector and sending a signal for rotating the motor, and a roll sensor for detecting a dimension of the medium wound on at least one of the first spool and the second spool. One end of the medium is wound on the first spool and the other end of the medium is wound on the second spool, and the portion of the medium is positioned to receive excess sealant of the end effector.