Robotic Handling Device for Automated Embossing Tool Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for producing motor vehicle license plates are complex and space-consuming, requiring manual handling and multiple conveyors to arrange embossing tools in the correct sequence, which is time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A robotic handling device automatically selects and positions embossing tools from a magazine in the correct sequence on a tool holder, aligns them relative to a blank, and transports the blank into an embossing press, eliminating manual activities and simplifying the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual handling and multiple conveyors are used to arrange embossing tools in the correct sequence, then the license plates can be produced, but the process becomes complex and space-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate conveyors and manual handling operations into a single integrated robotic handling device. This robot performs multiple functions: removing blanks from the stack, selecting embossing tools from the magazine, positioning them on the tool holder, and placing blanks on the tool holder. By merging these previously separate functions into one automated system, the device complexity is reduced while maintaining ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic handling device is designed as a multi-functional system that can perform various operations: gripping blanks, selecting different embossing tools based on the identifier sequence, positioning tools and blanks with precise control, and coordinating with the embossing press. This universal device replaces multiple specialized components, simplifying the overall system while preserving manufacturing ease.
2Ease of manufacture
If manual handling and multiple conveyors are used to arrange embossing tools, then the license plates can be produced, but the process requires a lot of space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple space-consuming components (separate conveyors for blanks and tools, manual handling areas) into a compact robotic system. The robot operates within a confined workspace, selecting tools from a magazine and positioning them on a tool holder near the embossing press, all within a reduced footprint compared to the original multi-conveyor layout.
3Productivity
If separate conveyors are used for feeding blanks and arranging embossing tools, then the production can proceed, but the structure becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of separate conveyors for blank feeding and tool arrangement into a single robotic handling device. This robot coordinates all material handling operations, reducing structural complexity while maintaining continuous production capability. The robot can quickly transition between different tasks (picking blanks, selecting tools, positioning) without requiring multiple dedicated conveyor systems.
4Ease of operation
If manual activities are used to arrange embossing tools in the correct sequence, then the process can be operated, but it is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic handling device operates autonomously to select and position embossing tools in the correct sequence based on the identifier to be produced. The system self-manages the tool selection process without requiring manual intervention, automatically retrieving the required tools from the magazine and positioning them on the tool holder in the correct order, thereby eliminating time-consuming manual activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated robotic system. The robot uses controlled mechanical movements to select tools from the magazine and position them on the tool holder, replacing the previous manual handling process. This automation significantly reduces the time required for tool arrangement while maintaining ease of operation through programmable control.
Data Source
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AI summary
In the production of motor vehicle markings (10), an individual series of digits is stamped into a blank (11). A stamping tool (13) is used for stamping each digit. In order to enable the stamping of the desired series of digits into the blank (11), the stamping tools (13) for producing the desired series of digits must be individually assembled. This is time-consuming. According to the invention, a handling device (27), which is preferably designed as a delta robot, is used in order to assemble the stamping tools (13) for stamping the desired series of digits into the blank (11). The handling device (27) is also used to position each blank (11) in front of the stamping tools (13) that are assembled in a manner corresponding to the desired series of digits and/or to center or align the stamping tools (13) with respect to the blank (11).