Modular Switch Storage for Single-Operator Linear Workpiece Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Linear transport systems face inefficiencies in workpiece handling due to separate insertion and removal areas, leading to idle time in processing areas and requiring multiple operators, which can be costly and reduce productivity.
Innovation Solution
A modular switch device allows workpiece carriers to be temporarily stored at a different level, enabling the same area to function as both an insertion and removal point, combining the advantages of rotary and linear transport systems, and can be easily integrated into existing systems, allowing for single-operator operation and reduced costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If separate insertion and removal areas are used in linear transport systems, then workpiece handling can be performed, but idle time occurs in processing areas and multiple operators are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the insertion area and removal area into a single changeover area, allowing workpieces to be loaded and unloaded at the same location. This merging eliminates the need for separate areas and enables continuous operation without idle time in processing areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The changeover area is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both an insertion area for loading workpieces and a removal area for unloading processed workpieces. This multi-functionality allows a single area to replace what were previously two separate dedicated areas.
2Ease of operation
If separate insertion and removal areas are used, then workpiece changing can be performed, but multiple operators are required which increases costs
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the insertion and removal operations into a single changeover area, the patent enables one operator to perform both loading and unloading tasks sequentially, eliminating the need for multiple operators and reducing labor complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal changeover area design allows a single operator to handle both workpiece insertion and removal functions, consolidating tasks that previously required separate operators in separate areas.
3Ease of operation
If rotary table system is used with identical loading and unloading areas, then single operator can work, but bulky workpieces cannot be processed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the transport system into modular components, including a linear conveyor belt system that can accommodate bulky workpieces while incorporating a changeover area module that enables single-operator operation. This modular approach combines the advantages of both rotary and linear systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from the circular path of rotary table systems to a linear transport system with a designated changeover area, providing the dimensional flexibility needed to handle bulky workpieces while maintaining single-operator efficiency through the specialized changeover zone.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an operating method for a modular switch device (1), a control unit (30), machine-readable program code (31), and a modular switch device (1) for intermediate storage of workpiece carriers (WT1, WT2) for a linear transport system, wherein the switch device (1) can be arranged between a changeover area (W), in particular an insertion and/or removal area, and a processing area (B) of a workpiece carrier (WT1, WT2) transporting on a transport level (N) linear transport system, comprising a first horizontally arranged carrier unit (2) and a second horizontally arranged carrier unit (3), wherein the first and the second carrier units (2, 3) are arranged vertically one above the other and fixedly spaced apart from each other, wherein a guide device (4, 5) is mounted on each of the first carrier unit (2) and the second carrier unit (3), with which workpiece carriers (WT1,WT2) are transportable in a transport direction (T) when interacting with a conveyor belt (21), wherein the first carrier unit (2) and the second carrier unit (3) are jointly adjustable in the vertical direction (V) by means of a lifting device (6, 7) such that both the guide device (4) arranged on the first carrier unit (2) and the guide device (5) arranged on the second carrier unit (3) can be positioned such that workpiece carriers (WT1, WT2) can be transported at the transport level (N) by means of the respective guide device (4, 5).