Automated Plate Dividing System with Lateral Robot Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing panel dividing systems require manual operation and multiple processes, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs, as they need operators to manage workpieces across different tables and dividing lines.
Innovation Solution
A fully automated panel dividing system utilizing a robot with a strategically positioned base and suction gripping device, allowing for flexible movement and processing of workpieces across multiple areas, including the infeed, removal, and intermediate storage, with optimized conveyor systems and buffer devices to enhance efficiency and reduce manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual operation is used to manage workpieces across different tables and dividing lines, then operators can handle workpieces flexibly, but operating efficiency decreases and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic self-service operation through the robot that autonomously transports workpieces between tables and dividing lines without human intervention. The robot independently performs the tasks previously requiring operators, achieving full automation and eliminating manual labor while maintaining continuous operation across multiple dividing lines.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a robot with large working area is used to cover all processing areas, then all workpieces can be handled, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The processing area is segmented into multiple discrete tables (first table, second table, third table) arranged along the conveying direction. The robot operates sequentially between these segmented stations, covering only the necessary distance between adjacent tables rather than requiring a single large working area. This segmentation allows using a smaller, more cost-effective robot while maintaining full operational coverage.
3Ease of operation
If the robot base is positioned far from the dividing line, then the robot structure is simpler, but the working area cannot cover the necessary processing zones
Solution Approach 1:
The robot base is positioned laterally adjacent to the dividing line rather than directly above or far from it, utilizing the lateral dimension to optimize accessibility. This lateral positioning allows the robot arm to easily reach workpieces on both sides of the dividing line and transfer them between tables, improving operational ease while keeping the base structure relatively simple and compact.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves significant cost savings and improved efficiency by enabling fully automated operation, minimizing movement and energy consumption, while maintaining high precision and flexibility in handling various workpiece sizes and shapes.
Implementation Method 1
a suction gripping device (30) attached to the end of the robot arm
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a panel dividing system (10) for dividing panel-shaped workpieces (56), comprising a feed table (12), a dividing device with a dividing line (14), a removal table (16), and at least one first conveying device (18) by which a workpiece (56) lying on the feed table (12) can be moved towards the dividing line (14). It is proposed that the system includes at least one second conveying device comprising a robot (24) having a base (26) and a working area (46) which, in a top view, at least partially covers an area of the removal table (16).