Mobile Assembly Resource Allocation for Mixed-Product Manufacturing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern industrial assembly lines face limitations due to the need for human input in varying process conditions and the cost-effectiveness of automation being dependent on high production volumes, making it challenging to efficiently produce non-identical products and manage hybrid manufacturing processes.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising mobile equipment, mobile containers, and a manufacturing management system that allocates and manages these resources to efficiently convert input materials into end products, utilizing robotic mechanisms and optimization algorithms to avoid bottlenecks and idle time, allowing for flexible production sequences and human-robot collaboration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional automated assembly lines are used, then manufacturing consistency and quality are improved, but flexibility to handle varying process conditions and non-identical products deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic task allocation where the MMS continuously monitors system state and reassigns tasks between human operators and robotic mechanisms in real-time based on current process conditions, product requirements, and resource availability. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to adapt to varying conditions while maintaining automated precision for suitable tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a universal manufacturing platform that can handle both identical mass production and non-identical custom products through the same infrastructure. The MMS orchestrates a hybrid workforce of humans and robots that can be dynamically allocated to different task types, making the system universally applicable to various product types and production volumes.
2Extent of automation
If high-volume mass production is implemented, then automation cost-effectiveness is improved, but ability to produce non-identical products and handle micro-orders deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the parameter of production volume from a fixed constraint to a dynamic variable. The MMS can adjust the mix of automated and manual tasks based on current order characteristics, allowing the same automated infrastructure to be cost-effective for high-volume identical products while transitioning to more manual involvement for low-volume non-identical products without requiring separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The manufacturing process is segmented into discrete tasks that can be independently assigned to different resources. The MMS analyzes each task's characteristics and allocates it to the most appropriate resource (human or robot) based on current priorities, allowing flexible composition of production processes for different order types while maintaining automated infrastructure.
3Productivity
If fixed production sequences are used, then process efficiency is improved, but responsiveness to changing product demands deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic task allocation where the MMS continuously monitors system state and reassigns tasks between human operators and robotic mechanisms in real-time based on current process conditions, product requirements, and resource availability. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to adapt to varying conditions while maintaining automated precision for suitable tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The MMS incorporates continuous feedback loops that monitor production progress, resource status, and changing demand requirements. This feedback enables the system to dynamically adjust task allocation and production sequences in real-time, maintaining efficiency by optimizing for current conditions while responding to changing demands without rigid fixed sequences.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides methods, equipment and apparatuses for a highly flexible assembly system. The system may include at least one item of mobile equipment, at least one mobile container and at least one manufacturing management system (MMS). Because it is so flexible, the system may allow for efficient simultaneous processing of multiple dissimilar products. The system may also accommodate manufacturing processes requiring hybrid methods.