Production Line Nest Access Control for Safe AGV Entry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated production lines lack effective safety measures to control simultaneous access by operators and robots or automated guided vehicles (AGVs) into nests, leading to potential accidents.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for controlling access to nests using access request signals, occupation detection, and connection means to ensure safe entry and exit of AGVs, including safety mechanisms like folding doors and sensors to prevent collisions and ensure the area is clear before allowing access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual stocking by operators is used, then parts can be placed in nests, but safety accidents can occur when operators enter the nest simultaneously with robots
Solution Approach 1:
An access control system acts as an intermediary between operators and the nest interior. The system includes access request means that operators must activate to enter the nest, occupation detection means that monitor whether the nest is occupied by robots or parts, and connection means that coordinate operator access with robot operations. This intermediary system prevents simultaneous entry accidents while maintaining manual stocking capability.
2Extent of automation
If automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are used to stock nests, then automation is increased, but safety control systems are needed to prevent collisions with operators and robots
Solution Approach 1:
The AGV safety system is merged with the existing nest access control system. The connection means integrate the AGV's autonomous safety system with the central control, allowing the AGV to receive occupation signals and incident signals from the same sensors that monitor operator access. This consolidation increases automation while managing complexity through shared infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback loops where occupation detection means continuously monitor the nest interior and send signals to both operators and AGVs. When the nest is occupied or an incident is detected, the connection means send stop signals to the AGV, preventing collisions. This feedback mechanism enables safe automated operation without requiring overly complex independent safety systems.
3Reliability
If safety measures are added to control nest access, then accident prevention is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The access control system is segmented into three functional modules: access request means (for operators to request entry), occupation detection means (sensors to detect nest occupancy and incidents), and connection means (control logic to coordinate access). This segmentation makes the safety system more manageable and easier to implement while maintaining comprehensive safety coverage.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a system and method for controlling access to production line nests which include access request means, configured to send an access request signal when an automated guided supply vehicle reaches a predetermined distance to a nest vehicle access area; occupation detection means for detecting occupation inside the nest; connection means configured to allow or deny the vehicle access to the inside of the nest depending on whether said space is occupied and whether there is an incident on the production line, and means for opening and closing the parts collection area.