Modular Table-Top Production Pod for Reconfigurable Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current table-top automation systems are limited in their ability to perform multiple tasks, lack integrated loading and unloading capabilities, and are not modular, leading to inefficiencies and high costs in custom-built solutions that are inflexible and obsolete quickly.
Innovation Solution
A modular table-top automation apparatus with a frame assembly, extended X-axis rail, and application devices that can be easily reconfigured to perform various operations on small parts and assemblies, allowing for self-loading and unloading, and operation as a standalone unit or within a system of other machines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If custom-built systems are designed to perform multiple tasks, then versatility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into discrete, interchangeable modules (application devices, conveyors, robotic arms) that can be independently selected and configured. Each module performs a specific function, and multiple modules are combined to achieve versatile operation without designing a completely custom integrated system for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs universal interfaces and standardized module designs that allow the same base platform to support multiple different application devices and configurations. The modular architecture enables a single system to perform various tasks by simply changing or reconfiguring the attached modules rather than building dedicated custom systems.
2Manufacturing precision
If custom-built systems are designed for specific products, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates when product revisions occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable through modular components that can be easily added, removed, or swapped. When product revisions require different processing tasks or configurations, the modular modules can be reconfigured without redesigning the entire system, maintaining both precision through standardized interfaces and adaptability through flexible reconfiguration.
3Productivity
If integrated loading and unloading systems are added to table-top machines, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The loading and unloading functions are merged with the main processing platform through integrated modular components. Rather than adding separate complex material handling systems, the patent incorporates conveyor modules and robotic end effectors that directly interface with the work area, achieving automated loading/unloading while maintaining system compactness and manageable complexity through standardized modular connections.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is a modular table-top automation apparatus, or for short, a tac, a word derived from an acronym for a table-top automation center, of which, this is the first. Employing integrated mechanical and electronic systems, a tac is a flexible, programmable apparatus, readily reconfigurable, which can be used as either a stand-alone unit, or as a cell within a configuration of other tacs or machines. The tac can utilize various purchasable application devices, mounted on one or two horizontal carriage rail assemblies, which extend past both sides of a frame containing a central work area, giving it a unique ability to load, position, perform numerous operations and unload a wide variety of small parts or assemblies. By combining with optional rotary magazines positioned on both sides of the frame, the tac can be set-up as a fully automatic “load and walk-away” production center.