Multi-Station Manipulator for Simultaneous Workpiece Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manipulators have complex structures, occupy large volumes, and have low production efficiency due to their inability to seize multiple workpieces simultaneously, resulting in prolonged standby times for machines.
Innovation Solution
A manipulator design featuring a main body with four connecting surfaces, a supporting arm, and holding devices that can seize and release grasping members through latching holes, allowing for simultaneous handling of multiple workpieces by rotating and using gas pressure to engage and disengage the holding devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a manipulator is designed to handle multiple workpieces simultaneously, then production efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manipulator is divided into multiple independent holding devices (first holding device, second holding device, third holding device, fourth holding device), each capable of independently seizing and releasing workpieces. This segmentation allows parallel processing of multiple workpieces, improving production efficiency while keeping each individual holding device relatively simple in structure.
2Loss of time
If a manipulator uses multiple holding devices to seize multiple workpieces, then machine standby time is reduced, but the manipulator occupies larger volume
Solution Approach 1:
The holding devices are arranged in a compact configuration where the first and second holding devices are positioned on one side of the main body and the third and fourth holding devices are positioned on the other side. This nested arrangement allows multiple holding devices to be integrated within a limited space, reducing the overall volume of the manipulator while maintaining the capability to handle multiple workpieces simultaneously and reduce machine standby time.
3Productivity
If a manipulator is designed with multiple holding devices for simultaneous workpiece handling, then production efficiency increases, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each holding device is designed with universal functionality to seize and release workpieces of the same type. The holding devices use similar structural elements (holding members, latching members, springs, pistons) that can be manufactured using the same processes, reducing the overall manufacturing cost despite having multiple holding devices. The multi-functional design allows the manipulator to handle multiple workpieces simultaneously, improving production efficiency without proportionally increasing manufacturing cost.
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary manipulator includes a main body, a plurality of holding devices, and a supporting arm. The main body includes four connecting surfaces. The holding devices are connected to the connecting surfaces of the main body. The holding devices are configured to seize and release grasping members. Each of the grasping members defines four latching holes. The holding devices are capable of abutting inner surfaces of the latching holes. The supporting arm is fixed to the main body, and configured to rotate with the main body.