Interlocked Feed Tables for Simpler Robot Table Positioning

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing robot systems with feed table devices require complex configurations and control sequences due to multiple drive devices, leading to increased complexity and costs.

Innovation Solution

A robot system with interlocking feed devices, where a single interlocking mechanism synchronizes the motion of multiple feed devices, reducing the need for individual control sequences and drive devices, and utilizing a ball screw mechanism for precise table movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a drive device is provided for each of multiple feed devices, then each table can be fed independently, but the configuration and control sequence become complex

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIndependent table feeding capabilityVSAvoidConfiguration and control sequence complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple drive devices into a single drive device that controls multiple feed devices. The interlocking mechanism couples the motion of multiple tables, allowing one drive device to synchronize the movement of multiple tables simultaneously, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining independent feeding capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single drive device is designed to perform multiple functions by controlling different feed devices through the interlocking mechanism. This universal drive device can feed multiple tables in various sequences and patterns, replacing the need for dedicated drive devices for each table

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If multiple drive devices are used for multiple feed devices, then each table can be controlled precisely, but the number of drive devices increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveTable positioning precisionVSAvoidNumber of drive devices
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple drive devices are merged into a single drive device that controls multiple feed devices through an interlocking mechanism. This reduces the quantity of drive devices while maintaining positioning precision through the mechanical coupling that ensures synchronized and accurate movement of all tables

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If individual drive devices are provided for each feed device, then control flexibility is maintained, but manufacturing costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveControl flexibilityVSAvoidManufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple drive devices into one, reducing component quantity and manufacturing cost. The interlocking mechanism enables this single drive device to maintain control flexibility by allowing various feeding sequences and patterns to be implemented through the mechanical coupling of multiple tables

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Simplifies the configuration and control sequence of the feed table device, reduces manufacturing costs, and enhances operational efficiency by allowing synchronized movement of tables with a single interlocking mechanism.

Implementation Method 1

a first feed screw device configured to move the first table; a second feed screw device configured to cause interlocked-feeding motions of the first feed screw device (14) and the second feed screw device (16)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBall screw mechanism: Screw

Data Source

PatentUS11389963B2Robot system including feed device, and feed table device
Publication Date: 2022.07.19 FANUC LTD
  • US11389963B2 patent drawing
  • US11389963B2 patent drawing
  • US11389963B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A robot system that simplifies a configuration and control sequence of a feed table device. The robot system includes a robot, a first table and a second table, a first feed device that feeds the first table, a second feed device that feeds the second table, an interlocking member that works the first feed device and the second feed device in synchronization with each other, and a control device that controls a first operation of the robot for a process and also controls a second operation, which is different from the first operation, of the robot for manipulating the interlocking member. The robot manipulates the interlocking member by the second operation, and thus respectively disposes the first table and the second table in a position corresponding to the process.