Multi-Axis Workpiece Transfer With Synchronous Servo Robot Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing work-piece transfer systems lack efficiency, compactness, and require significant maintenance, and are not effectively controlled for advancing multiple work pieces along multiple stations in a work-piece operation system.
Innovation Solution
A work-piece transfer apparatus utilizing multiple robot arms driven by servo motors, which allows for a combination of upward, downward, and horizontal motion, incorporating gear reduction mechanisms to efficiently translate and orient the work-piece engagement structure across multiple stations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional linear motion actuation methods are used for work-piece transfer, then the system structure is simple, but the efficiency is low and maintenance requirements are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional linear motion actuation mechanisms with a robotic arm system that uses servo motors and gear reduction mechanisms. This substitution transforms the mechanical drive system into a more efficient robotic system capable of complex multi-axis motion, thereby improving work-piece transfer efficiency while reducing maintenance requirements through fewer mechanical contact points and smoother operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control through servo motors that can precisely adjust the position and motion of the robotic arm in real-time. This dynamic capability allows the system to optimize transfer paths, accommodate varying work-piece positions, and coordinate multiple work-pieces across multiple stations, significantly enhancing productivity compared to static linear motion systems.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional work-piece transfer systems are used, then the apparatus is simple, but it requires significant maintenance and is not compact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical transfer systems with an electrically-driven robotic arm system using servo motors. This substitution eliminates many mechanical contact points, belts, and gears that require frequent maintenance, thereby reducing maintenance requirements despite the increased complexity of the control system. The electric drive system offers smoother operation and longer component life.
3Productivity
If multiple work pieces need to be advanced along multiple stations, then productivity increases, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a multi-functional robotic arm system that can perform multiple operations across different stations, including transferring work-pieces, positioning them precisely, and coordinating with various processing stations. This universal system replaces multiple dedicated transfer mechanisms, enabling multi-station processing while the integrated servo control system manages the complexity through centralized coordination, actually reducing overall system complexity compared to having separate mechanisms for each station.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback control through servo motors that continuously monitor and adjust the position of the robotic arm. This feedback mechanism enables precise control of multiple work-pieces across multiple stations by constantly comparing actual positions with target positions and making real-time corrections, thereby managing control complexity through intelligent regulation rather than requiring overly complex mechanical control linkages.
4Measurement precision
If robot arms with gear reduction mechanisms are used, then motion precision and control improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses electrically-driven robotic arms with servo motors and gear reduction mechanisms to replace simpler mechanical transfer systems. The gear reduction mechanisms provide mechanical advantage and precision, while the servo control system electronically manages the complexity, offering precise positioning control through a combination of mechanical gear reduction and electronic feedback, thereby achieving high measurement precision while keeping the control system manageable through integration.
Data Source
AI summary
A work-piece transfer apparatus, comprising at least one work-piece engagement structure; at least one first robot arm pivotally connected to the work-piece engagement structure; a first motor coupled to the first robot arm and being adapted for translating the first robot arm fore and aft in a generally horizontal direction; a second motor, at least one second robot arm being in operating driving relationship with the second motor and operatively coupled with the work-piece engagement structure for raising and lowering the work-piece engagement structure; and a support structure for supporting the apparatus or portions thereof; wherein the first motor and second motor are operated synchronously to raise, lower, and/or translate the work-piece engagement structure in a fore and aft direction by way of one or both of the first robot arm and second robot arm.