Robotic Panel Handling for Ore Deck Module Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ore treatment apparatus require manual intervention for replacing worn or damaged treatment panel modules, which is hazardous and labor-intensive due to limited space and poor visibility, posing risks to workers.
Innovation Solution
A robotic apparatus is designed to remove and replace treatment panel modules autonomously, equipped with a robotic support structure, transport means, drive means, and a handling mechanism with tools to engage and lift modules, along with scanning capabilities for wear assessment, all operated remotely to avoid human entry into confined spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual removal and replacement of panels is performed, then operational flexibility is maintained, but productivity is reduced and exposure to harmful factors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system performs panel removal and replacement operations autonomously without requiring human intervention. The robot navigates the facility, identifies panels requiring attention, and executes removal/replacement tasks independently, thereby increasing productivity while eliminating human exposure to harmful factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated robotic system equipped with specialized end effectors. This substitution enables faster, more consistent panel handling while reducing operational complexity through centralized control and programming rather than repeated manual procedures.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If robotic automation is implemented for panel removal and replacement, then productivity increases and exposure to harmful factors is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system serves as an intermediary between human operators and the hazardous panel removal environment. By placing the robot between humans and harmful factors, the system eliminates direct human exposure while the modular architecture manages complexity through standardized interfaces and pre-programmed task sequences.
3Adaptability or versatility
If frequent panel removal and replacement is performed, then operational flexibility is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system enables continuous panel removal and replacement operations without the downtime associated with manual task switching or repositioning. The automated navigation and task execution maintain continuous productive action, reducing total time loss while preserving operational flexibility through programmable task sequences.
Data Source
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AI summary
The specification discloses robotic apparatus for extraction of a worn treatment panel module from a treatment deck of ore material treatment apparatus without the need for work personnel entering the treatment apparatus, the robotic apparatus including a robotic support structure carried on transport means whereby the robotic support structure follows a course on the treatment deck, the robotic apparatus further including a treatment panel module handling mechanism connected to the robotic support structure for movement along a defined path of movement and first drive means for selectably moving the treatment panel module handling mechanism along the defined path of movement, the treatment panel module handling mechanism still further including tool means adapted to mount tool means cooperable at least with a treatment panel module intended to be removed from a selected treatment deck, the tool means being able to engage a panel module to lift it out of the treatment deck.