Configurable Mobile Workstations for Peak Object Handling Throughput
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Solution Overview
Problem
Object handling environments face inefficiencies leading to capacity overloads, resulting in lost objects, handling delays, and degradation, particularly during peak demand periods.
Innovation Solution
Mobile operator workstations with configurable foldable sub-platforms, integrated sensors for object detection and state monitoring, and wireless communication capabilities via 5G network slices, enabling efficient handling and remote control of robotic operators to manage object flow and workflow adaptability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional object handling environments are used, then infrastructure simplicity is maintained, but handling throughput is insufficient and capacity overload occurs during peak demand
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments object handling into multiple parallel workstations, each capable of independent operation. Multiple workstations can be deployed simultaneously to handle different object types or workflows, distributing the processing load and increasing overall throughput without requiring a single complex centralized system
Solution Approach 2:
Each workstation is designed as a multi-functional unit that can handle various object types through configurable sub-platforms and sensors. The workstation can adapt to different handling requirements by loading appropriate equipment and sensors, eliminating the need for dedicated infrastructure for each object type
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed workstation configurations are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different handling workflows is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The workstation features dynamic reconfigurability where sub-platforms can be added, removed, or repositioned based on the specific handling workflow requirements. Sensors and equipment can be dynamically configured to match the objects being handled, allowing the same physical platform to adapt to different tasks without permanent modifications
Solution Approach 2:
The workstation employs a nested modular structure where sub-platforms can be nested within or attached to the main workbench platform. This allows compact storage when not in use and easy deployment when needed, with each nested module representing a discrete functional unit that can be independently configured
3Measurement precision
If comprehensive sensor integration is implemented, then object detection accuracy and traceability are improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
Sensors are strategically positioned at specific locations on the workstation where they are most needed for particular detection tasks. Different sensor types (optical, weight, proximity) are deployed only where their specific detection capabilities are required, rather than uniformly across the entire system, reducing overall complexity while maintaining necessary precision
4Reliability
If multiple network services are integrated, then communication reliability and bandwidth requirements are met, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
A network interface module serves as an intermediary between the workstation's diverse sensors/equipment and the external network infrastructure. This intermediary handles protocol conversion, data prioritization, and connection management, allowing the workstation to support multiple network services (5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) without requiring complex integration logic in each individual component
Data Source
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AI summary
Various embodiments are directed to operator workstations configured to improve efficiency of handling operations at an object handling environment. In one aspect, an operator workstation for handling a plurality of objects is provided. The operator workstation includes a workbench platform having a configurable number of sub-platforms upon which objects can be disposed. The operator workstation further includes a plurality of sensors configured to collect sensor data for detection of object presences and object states of objects disposed upon the workbench platform. The operator workstation further includes a plurality of equipment configured to control movement of objects disposed upon the workbench platform. In various embodiments, different subsets of the sensors and equipment are configured for network communication via different network services provided by a wireless network. For instance, network communication may be provided to different sensors and equipment via different network slices of a 5th generation new radio (5G) cellular network.