Robotic Peening Path Randomization for Uniform Surface Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual peening methods in the aerospace industry lack repeatability and consistency due to reliance on human operator skills, resulting in high training and labor costs.
Innovation Solution
An automated peening method using a robotic arm with a peening tool, where a peening path is calculated and modified using a random number generator to ensure uniform coverage of the workpiece surface, preventing patternization and overpeening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual peening is performed by human operators, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but repeatability and consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-service by incorporating a random number generator that automatically modifies peening parameters without human intervention. The controller autonomously adjusts peening patterns based on random variations, eliminating the need for human operators to manually control each peening action while maintaining consistency and repeatability across multiple operations.
2Productivity
If manual peening is performed by human operators, then skill-based judgment is available, but training costs and labor expenses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of human operator skills with an automated control system that uses a random number generator to determine peening parameters. This substitution eliminates the need for skilled human operators and their associated training costs, while the added complexity of the random number generator and controller is offset by the elimination of human labor requirements.
3Manufacturing precision
If fixed peening patterns are used, then process simplicity is maintained, but patternization and overpeening occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed, static peening patterns to dynamic, randomly varied patterns. The controller continuously generates random variations in peening parameters such as travel distance, dwell time, and impact force, creating a dynamic peening process that adapts during operation. This dynamic approach prevents patternization and overpeening while maintaining manufacturing precision through controlled randomness.
Data Source
AI summary
An automated peening method comprising: providing, adjacent a surface of a workpiece, a robotic arm having a peening tool attached thereto; defining a peening area of the surface of the workpiece; calculating a peening path for the peening tool over the peening area, the peening path substantially covering the peening area and comprising a sequence of movement patterns, wherein a geometric variable of one or more of the movement patterns is modified using an output of a random number generator; and controlling the robotic arm to move the peening tool over the surface of the workpiece to follow the peening path.