Fastening Tool Positioning for Versatile Automated Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated robot systems for production automation, such as nut runners, are limited in the types and sizes of workpieces they can handle due to preset fastening tools, and require extensive time for teaching and costly equipment for direct force application, making them inefficient and costly for varied production tasks.
Innovation Solution
A fastening apparatus with multiple movement mechanisms, including circumferential, radial, and vertical directions, allows for the flexible placement and storage of fastening tools on various workpieces, enabling efficient teaching and operation across different types and sizes of workpieces, reducing teaching time and equipment costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If the number and positions of fastening tools are preset in the automated robot, then the robot can perform fastening operations automatically, but the types and sizes of workpieces that can be fastened are extremely limited
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening tool positions are made dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. The control unit allows modification of fastening tool positions and numbers according to different workpiece requirements, enabling the same robot to adapt to various workpiece types and sizes while maintaining automated operation
Solution Approach 2:
The automated robot is designed with universal capability to handle multiple workpiece types and sizes by allowing reconfiguration of fastening tool positions. The system can perform fastening operations on diverse workpieces without requiring dedicated preset configurations for each workpiece type
2Ease of operation
If teaching is performed using a teaching pendant with theoretically derived position data, then the robot can be programmed, but the position data requires multiple modifications and excessively large time is required for teaching
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows direct input of fastening tool positions and numbers by users based on actual workpiece requirements, eliminating the need for complex teaching pendant operations and theoretical position calculations. This self-service approach significantly reduces teaching time while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is pre-configured to accept and store fastening tool position data directly, allowing users to input positions in advance without requiring iterative modifications during teaching. This preliminary setup capability reduces the time required for robot teaching
3Measurement precision
If a person applies force directly to the robot to teach the robot, then the robot can be taught actual position data, but expensive components such as force sensors are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical teaching methods requiring force sensors with a simplified control unit-based input method. Users directly input position data through the control unit, eliminating the need for expensive force sensing components while maintaining measurement precision of actual position data
Data Source
AI summary
A fastening apparatus includes: a plurality of fastening tools; a first movement mechanism configured to rotate the plurality of fastening tools in a circumferential direction; a second movement mechanism configured to rectilinearly move the plurality of fastening tools in a radial direction; and a third movement mechanism configured to rectilinearly move the plurality of fastening tools in a vertical direction. In particular, the first movement mechanism includes a closed-curve guide unit having a closed-curve shape and configured to define a route along which the plurality of fastening tools rotates in the circumferential direction.