Modular Machine with Removable Autonomous Workstations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current specialized production equipment is costly and requires large series production, necessitating multiple machines for different operations, leading to significant investment and limited adaptability for various products.
Innovation Solution
A modular machine with removable autonomous workstations and a mobile support system, allowing for interchangeable tools and processing methods, including fully automated and semi-automated operations, controlled by an automaton with integrated indexing and recognition systems for precise positioning and tool management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If specialized production equipment is used for each specific operation, then the manufacturing precision and reliability for that operation is improved, but the device complexity and investment cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal machine structure with standardized fixing devices that can accommodate multiple types of autonomous workstations. The frame includes standardized fixing devices with connection terminals that can securely mount different workstation types (drilling, milling, assembly, inspection, etc.), allowing one machine to perform multiple operations that previously required separate specialized machines.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine is divided into independent, removable autonomous workstations that can be individually selected, mounted, and removed. Each workstation is a self-contained functional module that can be independently changed based on production needs, rather than having a monolithic specialized machine design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized machines are purchased for different operations, then the adaptability to specific operations is improved, but the loss of time for changeovers and the device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables dynamic reconfiguration of the machine by allowing workstations to be easily added, removed, or replaced during production. The standardized fixing devices and connection terminals facilitate quick changes, transforming a static specialized machine into a dynamic multi-functional system that can adapt to different production requirements without lengthy changeovers.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple autonomous workstations can be prepared in advance and kept ready for installation. The standardized interface allows pre-configured workstations to be quickly swapped in when needed, reducing changeover time compared to reconfiguring a single specialized machine.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a standard machine with interchangeable workstations is used, then the device complexity is reduced and adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Each autonomous workstation is designed with specialized components and fixtures optimized for its specific operation (drilling, milling, assembly, etc.). While the overall machine structure is standardized, each workstation maintains the local quality and precision characteristics of specialized equipment through its dedicated tools, fixtures, and control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs automated workstations with programmable control systems that can precisely replicate specialized operations. The automation and control systems compensate for the standardized mechanical interface, ensuring that processing precision is maintained through automated positioning, control, and execution of operations.
4Productivity
If fully automated processing is implemented, then the productivity is improved, but the ease of operation for manual adjustments is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The machine is segmented into independent autonomous workstations with separate access points and control systems. This modular design allows operators to access and adjust specific workstations independently without interfering with the overall automated production flow, maintaining both automation efficiency and manual accessibility where needed.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a modular machine for processing parts by means of at least one removable autonomous work station. The machine consists of a frame (3) on which are mounted on the one hand the autonomous work station or stations and on the other hand a movable support (5) which carries parts to be processed and is controlled by a control unit and is movable relative to the autonomous work station or stations, by means of at least one receiving means (6) of a removable autonomous work station designed to be mounted on the frame (3) close to the movable support (5), and by means of at least one laying operation (13) forming a means of receiving the parts to be processed mounted on the movable support (5). Modular machine characterized in that each receiving means (6) is removably attached to a corresponding attachment device (7) on the frame (3) having at least one terminal for connection to an energy source and has an indexing device for positioning it on said corresponding attachment device (7).