Mobile Robot Cell for Multi-Station Loading and Unloading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing loading and unloading systems for processing machines are complex and costly, especially when processing times are variable, leading to underutilization of loading units and high expenses for equipping machine tools with handling devices.
Innovation Solution
A movable robot cell with a protective device that can be fixed, detached, and adjusted for multiple stations, equipped with a robot such as a six-axis articulated arm, allowing for flexible use across different machine tools and increased operator safety through an adjustable door and flexible material protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If stationary loading and unloading devices are used for each processing machine, then operator safety is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single mobile robot cell that can serve multiple processing machines. The robot cell is equipped with universal interfaces and can be positioned at different stations, replacing the need for dedicated stationary loading/unloading devices at each machine. This multi-functional approach reduces overall system complexity while maintaining safety through consistent protective standards across all stations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the robot cell mobile rather than stationary. The cell can be moved between different processing machines, allowing the system to adapt its configuration dynamically. This mobility transforms the protective device from a fixed, machine-specific installation to a flexible, reusable unit that maintains safety standards while reducing the total number of protective systems needed.
2Productivity
If dedicated handling devices are equipped on each machine tool, then loading and unloading capability is improved, but cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a single robot cell that performs loading and unloading operations across multiple machine tools. Instead of equipping each machine with its own dedicated handling device, the universal robot cell travels between stations, providing the same functionality at each location. This significantly reduces the total cost of handling equipment while maintaining full loading and unloading capability across all machines.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple separate handling functions into a single integrated robot cell. By combining the loading and unloading capabilities that would otherwise be distributed across multiple machines into one mobile unit, the system achieves the same productivity benefits at a fraction of the cost. The robot cell integrates grippers, positioning systems, and control functions into a single reusable platform.
3Device complexity
If loading units are designed for single-machine use, then simplicity is improved, but capacity utilization decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by making the robot cell dynamic and mobile. The cell maintains relative simplicity in its core design but gains the ability to move between different processing machines. This mobility allows the same simple design to serve multiple machines sequentially, dramatically increasing capacity utilization without requiring complex multi-machine integration. The robot cell becomes a versatile yet straightforward solution that bridges simplicity and efficiency.
4Productivity
If mobile robot cells are used to serve multiple stations, then capacity utilization is improved, but adjustment and adaptation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by incorporating adjustable elements within the robot cell design. These may include adjustable gripper positions, variable-speed motors, programmable motion paths, and configurable safety parameters. By allowing these parameters to be changed through software or simple mechanical adjustments rather than physical reconfiguration, the system achieves high adaptability to different machines while keeping the overall device complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by making specific components of the robot cell adjustable rather than the entire system. For example, only the end-effectors or positioning mechanisms near the interaction points with different machines are made adaptable, while the core robot structure remains standardized. This localized adaptability reduces adjustment complexity compared to making the entire robot cell configurable for every station.
Data Source
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AI summary
A protective device (1) is proposed for a station for processes (2), such as inspecting, assembling (assembly station), sorting, sealing, filling, machining (machining station) and the like, and a method is proposed for automatically loading and/or unloading a station for processes (2), such as inspecting, assembling (assembly station), sorting, sealing, filling, machining (machining station) and the like, wherein through the use of a protective device (1), which is disposed on a station for processes (2) and is a robot cell, in addition to protecting an operator the economical use of a robot (4) is ensured such that in this way, for example, a production operation can be implemented where a plurality of stations for processes (2), in particular machine tools, can be loaded and/or unloaded using a single robot (4).