Multi-EOAT Case Packer for Conveyor-Synchronized Picking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic arms for case packing are expensive, bulky, and require precise coordination, leading to inefficiencies and missed or misplaced article deposition due to variations in article placement, orientation, or movement.
Innovation Solution
A visual scanner coupled with a multi-axis robotic arm assembly featuring independently movable end-of-arm tools (EOATs) that can match the speed, position, and orientation of articles on a conveyor, eliminating the need for multiple robotic arms and precise coordination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple robotic arms are used to package more articles quickly, then productivity is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple end-of-arm tools (EOATs) onto a single robotic arm assembly, allowing one arm to perform the work of multiple arms. The robotic arm can selectively engage different EOATs depending on the packaging task, reducing the total number of robotic arms needed while maintaining high productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic arm assembly is designed with universal capability to handle multiple packaging configurations through interchangeable EOATs. A single arm can adapt to different article types, orientations, and case requirements by selecting appropriate EOATs, eliminating the need for dedicated robotic arms for each packaging scenario
2Manufacturing precision
If precise positioning and coordination are required for robotic arms, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs vision guidance and sensors that allow the robotic arm to automatically detect article position, orientation, and type, then self-correct its positioning and EOAT selection. The arm independently determines the optimal configuration without requiring complex external coordination systems
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic arm assembly features dynamic adaptability through movable EOATs that can adjust their position and orientation on the arm. This dynamic configuration allows the system to accommodate variations in article placement and orientation while maintaining precise deposition, reducing the need for rigid pre-coordination
3Area of stationary object
If robotic arms operate on limited space, then area of stationary object is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The EOATs are mounted on the robotic arm in a nested or compact arrangement, allowing multiple tools to occupy minimal space on the arm structure. This nested configuration enables the system to maintain multiple packaging capabilities within a compact footprint, avoiding the space requirements of multiple separate robotic arms
4Adaptability or versatility
If variations in article placement occur, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates vision systems and sensors that provide real-time feedback on article position, orientation, and type. This feedback enables the robotic arm to dynamically adjust its positioning and EOAT configuration to compensate for variations in article placement, maintaining precise deposition despite initial variability
Solution Approach 2:
The movable EOATs on the robotic arm can dynamically reposition themselves to match variations in article location and orientation. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to handle diverse article configurations while maintaining consistent deposition accuracy, resolving the trade-off between adaptability and precision
Data Source
AI summary
A system, its components, and method of operation for loading articles into multiple cases is presented and includes a robotic assembly having a vertical arm movably connected to a frame at one end and a rail centrally engaged at the other. At least two end of arm tools (EOATs) are engaged to the rail, with each EOAT being capable of independent and coordinated sliding and rotational movement relative to the rail. A sensor is positioned above an upstream location of an article conveyor to detect speed, position and orientation characteristics of articles and communicating those characteristics to the robotic assembly. The robotic assembly is configured to move each of the EOATs to match the speed, position and orientation of one of the articles, and then, pick up each article, and transport each article to one of a plurality of cases positioned in a loading area.