Mobile Workpiece Handling With Clamped Storage During Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Machining systems face inefficiencies due to the high duration of workpiece processing, which includes both processing times at stations and travel times of loading and unloading devices, as workpieces are transported between multiple machining stations for various machining steps.
Innovation Solution
A movable loading and unloading device with a storage unit and manipulator, equipped with a clamping element to securely hold objects against movement parallel, transverse, or oblique to the travel direction, and a processing unit integrated with the transport unit, allowing for processing during transport, thereby reducing travel-related disruptions and enabling simultaneous preparation or additional processing at machining stations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If workpieces are transported between multiple machining stations, then different machining steps can be performed, but the overall processing duration increases due to travel time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the transport function and machining function into a single integrated system. The transport unit carries both the storage unit with workpieces and the machining unit with cutting tools, allowing machining operations to be performed during transport between stations rather than requiring separate travel and machining phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous useful action by performing machining operations during the transport phase. The machining unit processes workpieces while the transport unit moves between machining stations, eliminating idle travel time and ensuring that the transport period is productively utilized.
2Speed
If workpieces are moved during transport, then transfer speeds can be increased, but workpieces may slip or displace during high acceleration or cornering
Solution Approach 1:
The storage unit is divided into multiple holding positions, each equipped with independent holding means (clamps or fixtures). This segmentation allows individual workpieces to be securely restrained at specific locations during transport, enabling high-speed movement without compromising stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding means are pre-positioned and configured in the storage unit before transport begins. This preliminary arrangement ensures that workpieces are immediately secured when loading occurs, preventing any displacement during the subsequent high-acceleration transport or cornering maneuvers.
3Productivity
If a processing unit is integrated with the transport unit, then processing can occur during transport, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transport unit is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a transport carrier and as a mobile machining platform. The machining unit integrated with the transport unit can perform various machining operations (cutting, drilling, etc.) on multiple workpieces held in the storage unit, reducing the need for separate dedicated machines at each station.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a movable loading and/or unloading device (2) with at least one transport unit (4) for moving the loading and/or unloading device (2), with at least one storage unit (6) fixed to the transport unit (4) on which at least one gripping object (8) can be arranged or is arranged, and with at least one manipulator unit (10) fixed to the transport unit (4), which comprises at least one, in particular multi-axis, manipulator (12) comprising at least one gripping means (14) for gripping the at least one gripping object (8) and by which at least the at least one gripping object (8) can be arranged and/or removed in a processing station (16), such as a machine tool, and/or in or on the storage unit (6).It is characterized by the fact that the storage unit (6) includes at least one holding means (20) by which the at least one gripping object (8) can be fixed against movement at least transversely or obliquely to the direction of travel (18) of the loading and unloading device (2).