Handling Robot Workpiece Positioning Fastening Cycle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing workstations for fastening workpieces require multiple supports and a separate slider system for loading and unloading, and the handling robot is underutilized, leading to inefficiencies in the work cycle.
Innovation Solution
A method where a handling robot takes over the support function during the fastening process, allowing for continuous operation and simultaneous loading of new workpieces, enabling the robot to handle both positioning and removal of workpieces, thereby optimizing the use of the robot and reducing downtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate slider system and multiple supports are used for loading and unloading workpieces, then the workpiece positioning and transfer function is achieved, but the device complexity increases and the handling robot is underutilized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the support function with the handling robot by having the robot directly hold and position workpieces during the fastening operation. The robot's end effector serves as both a handling tool and a positioning support, eliminating the need for separate slider systems and multiple supports. This merging reduces device complexity while maintaining operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The handling robot is given multiple functions: it loads workpieces, positions them during fastening, and unloads completed assemblies. By making the robot universal and capable of performing both handling and support functions, the system eliminates dedicated support mechanisms, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
2Productivity
If the handling robot is used only for removing workpieces after fastening, then the robot's primary function is maintained, but the robot is not utilized throughout the entire work cycle
Solution Approach 1:
The robot engages in useful action throughout the entire work cycle by continuously holding and positioning workpieces during the fastening operation, rather than remaining idle. The robot's gripper maintains contact with the workpiece from loading through fastening to unloading, ensuring continuous productive engagement and eliminating idle time.
Solution Approach 2:
The robot performs preliminary positioning actions before the fastening operation begins and maintains this positioning throughout the fastening process. By establishing and maintaining workpiece position in advance and during the operation, the robot prepares the system for continuous operation without idle periods.
3Productivity
If new workpieces are mounted on the support while work is taking place, then continuous operation is enabled, but the available loading area is reduced due to the presence of the support
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the support function from a stationary support structure and assigns it to the mobile handling robot. This allows the loading area to be fully available since the robot can position workpieces anywhere in its workspace without being constrained by a fixed support structure. The support function is taken out and performed dynamically by the robot.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention concerns a method for handling at least one part in a station for fixing two parts one on the other, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: positioning the parts in a station using a support (4); starting the fixing operation; replacing the support with a gripping robot (6) when the fixing operation has progressed sufficiently to lock the relative positioning of the two parts; mounting new parts in the support when the replacement has been made; and after the parts have been fixed, removing the thus fixed parts from the station using the gripping robot.