Modular Conveyor With Integrated Terminals
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conveyor apparatuses in semiconductor manufacturing often require frequent replacement due to breakdowns, leading to inefficiencies and downtime, as existing systems lack modular and easily exchangeable components for quick maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A conveyor apparatus comprising a supporting plate and detachable conveyor modules with integrated power and communication terminals, allowing for easy assembly, disassembly, and replacement of modules, along with sensors for monitoring and controlling the transfer process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If conveyor modules are made detachable and modular for easy replacement, then ease of repair and productivity are improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple components and connection terminals
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor apparatus is divided into independent conveyor modules that can be detached and replaced individually. Each module includes its own power and communication terminals, allowing modular replacement without affecting other sections of the conveyor system.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor modules are designed with universal power and communication terminals that can connect to standard supporting plates. This multi-functional interface allows the same module design to be used in different positions and configurations within the conveyor system.
2Ease of operation
If conveyor modules are designed with integrated power and communication terminals for seamless connection, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Power terminals and communication terminals are integrated into a single connector assembly on each conveyor module. This merging of functions into one unified interface simplifies the assembly process while maintaining all necessary electrical and data connections.
3Productivity
If modular conveyor modules with detachable terminals are used for quick replacement, then productivity is improved, but reliability may worsen due to potential connection issues
Solution Approach 1:
Position detection and identification information are pre-configured for each conveyor module before installation. The system detects the position of modules in advance and pre-assigns identification information, ensuring proper configuration is established before the module begins operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Communication terminals establish real-time communication between conveyor modules and the control system. This feedback mechanism allows the system to monitor module status, detect connection issues, and maintain operational reliability through continuous status verification.
Data Source
AI summary
A conveyor apparatus includes a supporting plate and a conveyor module. The supporting plate is connected to the conveyor module. The supporting plate includes a first power and communication terminal that is configured to provide the conveyor module with power and a communication connection. The conveyor module is connected to the supporting plate. The conveyor module is detachable and includes a second power and communication terminal that is connected to the first power and communication terminal to receive the power and to perform the communication connection. The first and second power and communication terminals are detachable, with an ability to be connected to and disconnected from each other.