Robotic Pusher for Packaging Unit Grouping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for grouping and palletizing packaging units are inefficient due to the need for multiple moving parts and complex mechanisms, which limits speed and precision, and are prone to interruptions and space constraints.
Innovation Solution
A multi-axial industrial robot with a pusher element is used to orient and position packaging units on a grouping belt, reducing the number of moving parts and allowing for high-speed, precise grouping with reduced space requirements, eliminating the need for gripper tools and lifting mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional grouping methods with multiple moving parts are used, then reliability is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to speed limitations and frequent interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical grouping mechanisms (axially moveable arms, compression elements, multiple conveyor belts) with a robotic system that uses controlled pushing forces. The robot performs all grouping, orienting, and positioning operations through a single multi-axis manipulator, eliminating the need for complex mechanical systems with multiple moving parts that limited speed and caused interruptions.
2Manufacturing precision
If complex grouping mechanisms with multiple moving parts are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate grouping mechanisms into a single robotic system. The robot combines pushing, orienting, and positioning functions that were previously performed by separate axially moveable arms, compression elements, and multiple conveyor belts into one integrated multi-axis manipulator, reducing device complexity while maintaining precision through advanced control.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system performs multiple functions that were previously handled by separate mechanisms: it pushes units for grouping, orients them at different angles, positions them on the grouping plane, and can adapt to different grouping patterns. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for specialized mechanical components for each operation.
3Ease of operation
If traditional apparatus with multiple belts and moving parts is used, then ease of operation is improved, but space requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary mechanical components from the traditional system. By removing axially moveable arms, compression elements, and the need for multiple separate conveyor belts, the design reduces the apparatus footprint while centralizing functionality in a single robotic system that operates from a fixed position.
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
The solution enables faster and more precise grouping with fewer moving parts, reduced space usage, and simplified operation, allowing for continuous processing and easier handling of interruptions, thereby enhancing production speed and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a pusher element (5) arranged on the robotic arm (4), rotatable about an axis perpendicular to the grouping plane, in order to allow the transfer of at least one unit (10) from the feed belt (1) to the grouping belt (2) under a pushing action supplied by the pushing element (5)
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
Apparatus for grouping a number of units, such as packaging units, when palleting the units, comprising a feed belt for conveying the units (10) and a grouping belt, which defines a grouping plane, said feed and grouping belts being driven for movement parallel to one another, and a robot, which is designed to group the units by positioning and orienting the units on the grouping plane. At least one part of the feed belt (1) runs beside and adjacent to the grouping belt (2). The robot (3) is a multi-axial industrial robot having a robotic arm on which a pusher element (5) is arranged, rotatable about an axis (6) perpendicular to the grouping plane, in order to allow the transfer of at least one unit from the feed belt to the grouping belt under a pushing action supplied by the pushing element, together with orientation and positioning of the unit on the grouping belt.