Robot Assembly Unit for Molded Parts Without Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing assembly systems require complex configurations involving part removing and assembling means, as well as positioning mechanisms and sensors, which increase costs and cycle time.
Innovation Solution
An assembly system that uses a molding machine to mold first and second parts in the same mold, with a robot that removes and assembles these parts without releasing them, employing a moving mechanism to align and assemble the parts without the need for additional positioning mechanisms or sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If both part removing means and part assembling means are used, then parts can be removed and assembled, but the configuration becomes complex requiring positioning mechanisms and position sensors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the part removing function and part assembling function into a single integrated robot system. The robot removes parts from the mold and subsequently assembles them without requiring separate dedicated removing means and assembling means, thereby simplifying the overall configuration and eliminating the need for additional positioning mechanisms and position sensors that would be required in a multi-system approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The robot is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the part removing means and the part assembling means. This multi-functional robot eliminates the need for separate specialized devices, reducing system complexity while maintaining the capability to both remove and assemble parts effectively.
2Manufacturing precision
If positioning mechanism and position sensor are added, then positioning accuracy improves, but device complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system utilizes the mold itself as the reference for positioning parts during assembly. The mold's structure provides inherent positioning features that guide the robot in assembling parts at correct positions, eliminating the need for additional positioning mechanisms and position sensors. The mold serves the dual purpose of both manufacturing and positioning reference.
3Productivity
If separate removing and assembling operations are performed, then positioning can be achieved, but assembly cycle time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robot performs part removal and part assembly as continuous operations without interruption. After removing a part from the mold, the robot immediately proceeds to assemble it without releasing the part or performing intermediate positioning operations. This continuous action eliminates idle time and reduces the overall assembly cycle time.
Solution Approach 2:
The robot holds and positions parts during the removal process itself, preparing them for assembly before the assembly action begins. This preliminary positioning during removal eliminates the need for separate positioning operations afterward, reducing total operation time.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly system includes a molding machine that molds first parts and second parts and a robot having an assembly unit including a first holder that holds the first parts and a second holder that holds the second parts with each other. The first parts and the second parts that are molded by the molding machine are removed from the mold while being held by the first holder and the second holder of the robot. At least one of the first holder and the second holder is moved relative to the other so as to assemble the first parts and the second parts without releasing the first parts held by the first holder and the second parts held by the second holder.