Robot-Guided Workpiece Gripper Assembly for Faster Press Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for constructing workpiece gripping devices in press automation are complex and time-consuming, requiring manual alignment and integration with the press system, which increases construction time and costs.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a multi-axis robot to automatically indicate the exact positions and orientations of workpiece-specific components on a carrier, allowing for automated assembly of the gripping device without the need for a workpiece or press tool, enabling tool-free and workpieceless construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual alignment and integration methods are used for constructing workpiece gripping devices, then construction flexibility is maintained, but construction time and integration complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a multi-axis robot to copy the exact positions and orientations of workpiece-specific components from a reference workpiece or press tool. The robot records spatial coordinates and orientation data, then uses this copied information to guide the attachment of components to the carrier, eliminating manual measurement and alignment while ensuring precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with an automated multi-axis robot system. The robot's controlled movements and positioning capabilities substitute for manual alignment procedures, reducing both construction time and integration complexity while maintaining or improving positioning accuracy.
2Loss of time
If automated multi-axis robot positioning is used to display component positions, then construction time is reduced, but equipment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-axis robot serves multiple functions: it positions components, records spatial coordinates, determines orientations, and guides the attachment process. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate devices into a single system, reducing overall equipment complexity while achieving automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the multi-axis robot's own positioning capabilities and control system to automatically determine and display component positions and orientations. The robot essentially performs self-positioning and self-guidance for component attachment, reducing the need for additional external positioning equipment.
3Manufacturing precision
If workpiece-specific components are precisely positioned using a motion machine, then manufacturing precision is improved, but the requirement for specialized equipment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic multi-axis robot system that can adapt its positioning and movement during the component attachment process. The robot's programmable motion paths and real-time control allow for precise positioning without requiring specialized fixed equipment, as the system can be reconfigured through software for different workpiece geometries.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for construction of a workpiece-related workpiece gripping device (200) for press automation, workpiece-specific components (221, 222) being fastened to a support (210). According to the invention, the respective precise positions and orientations (A) of the workpiece-specific components (221, 222) to be fastened to the support (210) are reproduced by means of a motion automaton, in particular a robot (110). The invention further relates to a device (100) that is suitable for carrying out said method.