Oblique Tool Holder Storage for Robot Loading Stations
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing loading devices for installations, such as multi-clamping and measuring stations, lack efficient and secure storage solutions for tool holders and assemblies, particularly in terms of capacity utilization and safety, especially when operated by handling robots.
Innovation Solution
A loading device with a rollable undercarriage unit and a storage unit that includes oblique-positioned holding devices for tool holders and upright holding devices for tools, allowing secure, positionally fixed storage and easy manual or automated loading/unloading, optimized for handling robot operation, with sensor-controlled docking and closure mechanisms for enhanced safety and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If tool holders are stored upright in conventional loading devices, then they are easy to access, but the storage capacity is reduced and the handling robot cannot efficiently retrieve them
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by storing tool holders obliquely at an angle of 45° to 60° relative to the vertical axis, rather than in conventional upright positions. This angular orientation allows the handling robot to access tool holders from the side, enabling efficient retrieval while significantly increasing the number of tool holders that can be stored in the same spatial footprint. The oblique arrangement optimizes both robot productivity and storage capacity by utilizing three-dimensional space more effectively.
2Reliability
If the storage unit is made compact to meet safety regulations, then it meets external standards, but the storage capacity and accessibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by implementing oblique storage racks angled at 45° to 60°, which allow compact external dimensions to accommodate a larger number of tool holders through optimized spatial arrangement. The angular configuration enables the storage unit to meet safety regulation size limits while maximizing internal storage capacity and maintaining robot accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a movable storage unit that can be positioned dynamically to optimize both safety compliance and storage capacity. The storage unit's ability to move allows it to adapt to different operational requirements while maintaining compact dimensions that satisfy external safety standards.
3Productivity
If the loading device is designed for automated robot operation, then productivity increases, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing the storage unit with automatic positioning and identification systems that enable the handling robot to autonomously locate and retrieve tool holders without complex control mechanisms. The oblique rack configuration naturally guides the robot's access path, reducing the need for sophisticated positioning systems while maintaining high automated operation efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A loading device for a loading of an installation, in particular a multi-clamping and measuring and/or presetting station for tools and/or tool holders, and/or a machine tool, in particular includes at least one handling robot, having at least tool holders and/or tool assemblies, having a rollable undercarriage unit and having a storage unit, arranged on the rollable undercarriage unit, for a storage of the tool holders and/or of the tool assemblies,wherein the storage unit has at least one holding device at least for an oblique-positioned holding of the tool holders and/or of the tool assemblies relative to a put-up direction of the storage unit.