Modular Manufacturing System with Reconfigurable Interconnects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current flexible manufacturing systems are costly and require substantial pre-planning, making them impractical for low-volume production scenarios where rapid, cost-effective production is needed.
Innovation Solution
A modular and reconfigurable manufacturing system comprising manipulation modules with linear or rotational actuation, connecting means for mechanical and electrical interconnection, and onboard intelligence, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly without specialized tools or extensive planning, enabling multiple configuration options for different tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated systems are used for specific manufacturing tasks, then manufacturing precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular functional units that can be independently selected and configured. Each module performs a specific manufacturing function, allowing the system to achieve high reliability for each task while avoiding the complexity of dedicated systems for every possible operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular architecture enables a single system to perform multiple manufacturing functions by reconfiguring modules. This universal approach replaces the need for multiple dedicated systems, reducing overall complexity while maintaining reliability through standardized modular components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If flexible manufacturing systems are implemented, then adaptability and productivity are improved, but implementation cost and pre-planning requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the manufacturing system into standardized modules, the patent enables flexible reconfiguration without requiring complex pre-planning. Each module can be independently selected and assembled, reducing implementation barriers while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic reconfiguration capabilities where modules can be added, removed, or repositioned based on current manufacturing needs. This dynamic approach provides flexibility without the rigid pre-planning requirements of traditional flexible manufacturing systems.
3Ease of operation
If modular manipulation modules are used, then ease of assembly and reconfiguration are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manipulation system is segmented into standardized modules with uniform interfaces and connection protocols. This segmentation enables easy assembly through simple module stacking or connecting, while the standardization prevents complexity from arising in the interconnection architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a manufacturing system includes multiple manipulation modules each including means for mechanically and electrically connecting the module to another component in the system and an end effector including means for mechanically and electrically connecting the end effector to another component in the system, wherein the modules and end effector can be mechanically and electrically connected in multiple ways to alter the configuration of the system and the manufacturing tasks that the system can perform.