Multi-Robot Assembly Sequencing for Lower Processing Load
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of large structures, such as aircraft components, is challenging due to the complexity and inefficiency of multiple robots working collectively, requiring high processing power and prolonged assembly times.
Innovation Solution
A robot arrangement where multiple robots sequentially and simultaneously interact with an object, sharing a single device or image capture system, to reduce processing power and equipment costs, and enhance assembly speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple robots work collectively on the same component simultaneously, then productivity increases, but processing power requirements and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the assembly task into distinct portions, with different robots performing different portions of the same task sequentially or simultaneously. This allows multiple robots to work on the same component without requiring complex coordination systems, as each robot has a clearly defined, non-overlapping role in the assembly process.
2Productivity
If multiple robots work collectively on the same component simultaneously, then productivity increases, but processing power required to monitor robots and object increases
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the monitoring and control tasks among the robots based on their specific portions of work, the processing power requirements are distributed rather than concentrated in a central system. Each robot monitors and controls its own operations independently, reducing the total processing power needed.
3Productivity
If multiple robots work collectively on the same component, then productivity increases, but assembly time increases due to complex monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the assembly process into distinct portions that can be executed in parallel by different robots. This segmentation eliminates the need for sequential completion of entire tasks, allowing simultaneous progress on different portions of the same component, thereby reducing overall assembly time despite having multiple robots.
4Area of stationary object
If multiple image capture devices are used simultaneously, then imaging coverage improves, but image processing complexity and calibration requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different image capture devices to capture images of different portions of the object. Each device is responsible for a specific section, which simplifies calibration as each device only needs to be calibrated for its designated area. The segmented approach to image capture reduces the overall complexity compared to using multiple devices to capture the entire object simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
A robot arrangement for interacting with an object is disclosed including a plurality of robots adjacent an object; the plurality of robots configured to interact with the object sequentially such that: a first robot of the plurality of robots is configured to perform a first portion of a first task on the object and then, whilst the first robot is not interacting with the object, a second robot of the plurality of robots is configured to perform a second portion of the first task on the object, and the plurality of robots are configured to simultaneously interact with the object, before or after completion of the first task, so as to collectively perform a second task on the object.