High-Density Robotic Cell With Single-Function End Effectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current robotic systems for assembly operations are complex, large, and require more space and maintenance, leading to lower production efficiency and longer takt times due to the use of multifunction end effectors, which are cumbersome and less efficient in high-density environments.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus utilizing a high-density robotic cell with single-function end effectors positioned on opposite sides of an assembly, where one set maintains clamp-up while the other performs tasks like drilling and inspection, allowing for efficient switching and reduced maintenance needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multifunction end effectors are used to perform multiple tasks, then the number of robotic devices can be reduced, but the device complexity and volumetric space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the multifunctional end effector into separate single-function end effectors (clamp-up effector, drilling effector, inspection effector, fastener insertion effector). Each effector performs one specific task, reducing individual effector complexity while maintaining overall system versatility through coordinated operation of multiple specialized effectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system achieves multi-functionality not through a single multifunctional effector but through a coordinated system of multiple specialized effectors working together. The system can perform clamping, drilling, inspection, and fastener insertion by deploying appropriate effectors at different locations, providing universal capability without individual effector complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multifunction end effectors are used, then fewer devices are needed, but maintenance time and downtime increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the end effector functions into separate single-function units, each effector becomes simpler with fewer moving parts and less complex mechanisms. This segmentation makes individual effectors easier to maintain and repair, reducing downtime when one effector requires service while others can continue operating.
Solution Approach 2:
The single-function end effectors are designed to be simpler, more robust units that can be quickly replaced or serviced. Their reduced complexity makes them more like standardized, easily replaceable components rather than complex multifunctional assemblies requiring extensive maintenance procedures.
3Productivity
If robotic devices are positioned densely in small space, then production efficiency increases, but device size and space requirements increase for traditional systems
Solution Approach 1:
The segmentation into single-function effectors reduces the size and complexity of each individual robotic device. Smaller, specialized effectors can be positioned more densely in the available workspace, enabling concurrent operations at multiple locations without requiring excessive volumetric space.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes multiple sides of the assembly structure (first side and second side) to position robotic devices. By operating from different dimensions and orientations, the system achieves high-density positioning and concurrent operations without increasing the overall footprint in any single dimension.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multifunction end effectors are used, then all tasks can be performed by one device, but takt time increases due to lower density positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments tasks across multiple specialized end effectors positioned at different locations. This allows concurrent execution of clamping, drilling, inspection, and fastener insertion operations simultaneously at different positions, reducing the overall takt time compared to sequential operations by a single multifunctional device.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple single-function effectors operate continuously and concurrently at different locations on the assembly. While one effector performs clamping, another drills, a third inspects, and a fourth inserts fasteners, maintaining continuous productive action across all operations rather than sequential execution, thereby reducing takt time.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatuses for performing automated operations using a high-density robotic cell. An apparatus comprises a first plurality of robotic devices; a second plurality of robotic devices; and a control system. Each of the second plurality of robotic devices is coupled to a single function end effector. The control system controls the second plurality of robotic devices to concurrently perform tasks at a plurality of locations on an assembly, while the first plurality of robotic devices independently maintain a clamp-up at each of the plurality of locations.