Manipulator Tool Changing for Multi-Pallet Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage and manufacturing systems face inefficiencies in handling workpiece carriers or pallets of different designs due to the inability of fixed lifting devices to accommodate varying machine and workpiece requirements, leading to reduced productivity and additional costs when adapting machines or using add-on pallets.
Innovation Solution
A handling device with a load-handling unit featuring an interface for attaching interchangeable lifting tools, secured by a releasable locking device, and a changing station with storage locations for tool exchange, allowing automatic switching between different lifting tools to handle multiple pallet types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single fixed lifting device is used to handle workpiece carriers, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different machine and workpiece requirements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting device incorporates an adjustable fork structure where the distance between the two prongs can be modified. This allows the same device to adapt to different pallet widths and configurations, resolving the contradiction between maintaining simple device structure and achieving versatility for handling various workpiece carriers.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting device is designed with universal handling capabilities through its adjustable fork mechanism, enabling a single device to perform multiple functions across different machine types and workpiece carrier configurations, thereby eliminating the need for multiple specialized lifting devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different pallet designs are accommodated by using add-on pallets in processing machines, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than modifying machines with add-on pallets, the invention dynamically adjusts the lifting device's fork configuration to match different pallet designs. This approach maintains machine simplicity while achieving the necessary adaptability through the adjustable lifting mechanism.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4a~4d
AI summary
The invention relates to a storage and/or manufacturing system with at least one handling device, which is a rail-guided vehicle with a drive unit movable in a longitudinal direction of the system or a stationary handling device with a drive unit movable about its own axis, a vertically movable lifting unit of the storage and retrieval machine, and a load-handling unit preferably movable and/or rotatable in a transverse direction, wherein the load-handling unit has an interface for attaching the lifting tool, which is designed such that the lifting tool or a part of the lifting tool can be automatically changed or removed, wherein the handling device has a releasable locking device, in the closed state of which the lifting tool or its replaceable part is secured against loss.According to the invention, the storage and/or manufacturing system or the handling device has at least one storage or storage location for lifting tools, and the releasable locking device of the handling device can be moved from a closed to an open state and vice versa at a storage or storage location.