Conveyor Robot Alignment Using Line-Light Position Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robot systems lack efficient methods for precise position adjustment relative to conveyors, particularly in food production lines, leading to difficulties in reinstallation and flexibility during changes in production processes.
Innovation Solution
A robot system equipped with dual arms and visualizers that apply line light to reference marks on a conveyor to visualize positional deviations in the Y and Z directions, allowing for easy adjustment and reinstallation by operators, using a combination of level adjusters and casters for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional robot positioning methods are used, then installation is complex and time-consuming, but positioning accuracy can be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning adjustment mechanisms with an optical visualization system. Laser projectors cast reference lines onto the conveyor surface, and cameras capture images showing the robot's positional deviation from the reference lines. This optical system substitutes for traditional mechanical alignment tools and procedures, enabling operators to quickly visualize and adjust positioning without complex mechanical instrumentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary visualization system consisting of laser reference lines and camera-captured images. This intermediary representation of the robot's position relative to the conveyor serves as a mediator between the physical positioning system and the operator. Instead of directly measuring and adjusting mechanical parameters, operators interact with the visualized reference lines and deviation indicators, simplifying the adjustment process.
2Manufacturing precision
If precise position adjustment is implemented, then robot accuracy improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement and adjustment mechanisms with a simpler optical visualization system. Instead of using precision mechanical gauges, calipers, or complex alignment tools, the system uses laser projectors to cast reference lines and cameras to capture positional deviations. This substitution maintains high positioning accuracy while significantly reducing mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy or representation of the robot's position relative to the conveyor through camera images. The captured images serve as a copy of the physical positioning state, showing reference lines and deviation indicators. This copying approach allows operators to assess and adjust positioning accuracy without needing complex direct measurement equipment, simplifying the system while maintaining precision.
3Ease of operation
If visual feedback system is added, then positioning ease improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical alignment procedures with a visual feedback system using lasers and cameras. The laser projectors cast reference lines on the conveyor, and cameras capture images showing the robot's position relative to these lines. This visual substitution eliminates the need for operators to interpret complex mechanical measurements or use multiple alignment tools, greatly simplifying operation despite adding optical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes visual contrast and color differentiation in the laser reference lines to provide intuitive positional feedback. The laser lines create high-contrast visual markers that are easily distinguishable against the conveyor surface. This use of visual properties (light, color, contrast) provides immediate, intuitive feedback to operators about positioning status, simplifying operation while the complexity is confined to the optical projection and imaging subsystems.
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
Enables accurate and flexible robot positioning with millimeter-level accuracy, simplifying reinstallation and enhancing production line automation, particularly in dynamic food production environments.
Implementation Method 1
visualizers that apply line light to reference marks on a conveyor to visualize positional deviations
Data Source
AI summary
A robot includes an arm via which the robot is configured to perform an operation on a workpiece conveyed in a conveyance direction on a conveyor, and a visualizer which is configured to visualize positional deviation of the robot from the conveyor in at least one of a first direction perpendicular to the conveyance direction and a second direction perpendicular to both the conveyance direction and the first direction.