AGV Tool Changer Interface for Faster Sheet Metal Press Swaps
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sheet metal press systems are complex, space-intensive, and limited in speed due to the need for multiple stacker cranes and rail systems, which is a drawback in high-production environments like the automotive industry where frequent tool changes are necessary.
Innovation Solution
A sheet metal press system utilizing automated guided vehicles (AGVs) that can lift and lower tools through a guide path directly into and out of the press, with a tool changer interface integrated into the lower die or a bolster, and featuring parallel forks with liftable dogs for easy interaction with tool slots, minimizing the need for extensive shop floor space and enhancing speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple stacker cranes and rail systems are used for tool changes, then tool exchange capability is provided, but system complexity increases and shop floor space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (tool storage, tool transport, and tool installation) into a single integrated robotic system. The robotic arm performs both tool retrieval from storage and tool installation into the press, eliminating the need for separate stacker cranes and rail systems while maintaining full tool exchange capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic arm is designed as a universal tool that can handle multiple tool types and perform multiple operations (storage retrieval, press installation, press removal, storage placement). This multi-functional approach replaces the specialized functions of multiple dedicated devices with a single versatile robotic system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple stacker cranes and rail systems are used for tool changes, then tool exchange is enabled, but shop floor space is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates tool storage racks and tool transport mechanisms into a compact integrated system positioned adjacent to the press. The robotic arm operates within a reduced spatial envelope, eliminating the extensive rail networks and multiple crane positions required by traditional systems, thereby significantly reducing shop floor space consumption.
3Adaptability or versatility
If each stacker crane serves its own tool exchanging station, then tool exchange is performed, but tool change speed is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic arm enables continuous tool change operations by seamlessly transitioning between tool retrieval from storage and tool installation into the press without interruption. The integrated system eliminates transfer delays between separate devices, maintaining continuous productive action during tool exchanges and enabling faster tool change speeds.
Solution Approach 2:
Tools are pre-positioned in storage racks within reaching distance of the robotic arm. The robotic system can quickly access pre-positioned tools without requiring long-distance transport or complex coordination, enabling rapid tool changes while maintaining full exchange capability.
4Device complexity
If an automated guided vehicle is used for tool changes, then system complexity is reduced and shop floor space is minimized, but tool lifting and lowering capability must be integrated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the lifting and lowering function directly into the robotic arm mechanism. The robotic arm's inherent lifting capability is used to raise tools from storage racks and lower them into the press, combining transport and positioning functions in a single integrated system that reduces overall complexity while enabling the required tool change operations.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention concerns a sheet metal press system and a method used in connection therewith. The sheet metal press system comprises at least one sheet metal press having an opening through which a tool, which comprises an upper die, a lower die and a tool changer interface, can pass during a tool change performed by means of a tool changer device. The tool changer device comprises at least one automated guided vehicle, running on a shop floor and capable of lifting and lowering a tool by interaction with the tool changer interface of said tool, wherein a guide path for said at least one automated guided vehicle runs from outside and into said at least one sheet metal press through said opening. The method comprises alternating use of a first and a second automated guided vehicle during a tool changing operation.