Mixed-Axis Robot Layout for Continuous Welding on Moving Workpieces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional robot systems face inefficiencies in workpiece processing, particularly in operations like welding and sealing, due to limitations in robot configuration and workflow.
Innovation Solution
A robot system comprising two first articulated robots with seven axes each, arranged along the transport direction, and a second articulated robot with a different axis configuration, positioned between them, allowing simultaneous work on the workpiece from multiple directions without stopping conveyance, enhancing operational efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional robot systems use single or limited number of robots with standard axis configurations, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and work efficiency deteriorate due to inability to perform simultaneous multi-directional operations
Solution Approach 1:
The robot system is segmented into multiple independent robot units (first robots and second robots) with different axis configurations. Each robot segment performs specific operations from different directions, enabling simultaneous multi-directional work on the workpiece without requiring a single complex robot to handle all operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces dimensional diversity by employing robots with different axis configurations (seven-axis for first robots, different configuration for second robots). This dimensional variation in robot capability allows coverage of different workspaces and angles, enabling simultaneous operations from multiple directions that would be impossible with uniform robot configurations
2Productivity
If robots perform work operations, then productivity increases, but loss of time increases due to work interruptions and conveyance stopping requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables continuous work operations by coordinating multiple robots to perform tasks simultaneously while the workpiece remains in motion on the conveyor. The first and second robots execute their operations without requiring the conveyor to stop, maintaining continuous material flow and eliminating idle time between operations
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple robots are positioned and prepared in advance at different locations along the conveyor path. Each robot is pre-configured for its specific operation, allowing them to begin work immediately when the workpiece arrives at their respective positions without waiting or interrupting the conveyance flow
Data Source
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AI summary
The robot system includes two first robots and one second robot. The first robots are articulated robots arranged along the transport direction of the workpiece to work the workpiece. The first robot is the articulated robot having seven axes arranged in an axis configuration in which a rotation axis, a pivot axis, a pivot axis, and a rotation axis are arranged in an order from a distal end of the first robot. The second robot is an articulated robot provided between the two first robots along the transport direction to work the same workpiece, and has an axis configuration different from the axis configuration of the first robot.