Robotic Tool Changing for Tire Weight Application Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tire and wheel assembly systems face challenges in efficiently applying weights to balance rotating elements due to variations in assembly types, requiring manual changeovers of end-of-arm tooling, which increases costs and reduces productivity.
Innovation Solution
An automated tool changer system for robotic systems that dynamically selects and applies the appropriate end-of-arm tooling based on tire assembly data, allowing for efficient and flexible weight application without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual changeovers of end-of-arm tooling are used to accommodate variations in assembly types, then the system can handle different tire assembly types, but the productivity decreases and costs increase due to manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system is designed with a universal end-of-arm tooling interface that can accommodate multiple tire assembly types through automated tool selection rather than manual changeovers. The system uses a standardized mounting mechanism that allows different weight apply tools to be quickly exchanged on the robotic arm, enabling one robotic system to perform multiple functions across various assembly types without losing productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects and exchanges end-of-arm tools based on the specific tire assembly type being processed. The robotic controller receives assembly type information and automatically selects the appropriate weight apply tool from available options, enabling real-time adaptation to different assembly variations without manual intervention or productivity loss
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual changeovers of end-of-arm tooling are performed, then different assembly types can be accommodated, but the system complexity increases due to manual operations
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system performs self-service by automatically selecting and exchanging its own end-of-arm tools based on the assembly type being processed. The controller autonomously determines which weight apply tool is needed and executes the tool change without requiring manual intervention, thereby reducing operational complexity while maintaining high adaptability to different assembly types
3Productivity
If automated tool selection is implemented, then productivity increases and manual intervention is eliminated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical tool change operations with an automated robotic system. The robotic arm with automated tooling selection uses programmed logic and automated mechanical interfaces to exchange tools, eliminating manual labor while the complexity is managed through software control rather than complex mechanical mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic controller acts as an intermediary between the assembly type identification system and the physical tool exchange mechanism. It receives information about the assembly type, determines the required tool, and coordinates the automated tool change, thereby simplifying the overall system architecture while enabling high productivity through automated decision-making and execution
Data Source
AI summary
A weight apply system capable of changing tooling to apply weights to an assembly to correct unbalance. It may include a selectively movable arm, at least one weight apply tool, the ability to change the tooling based on assembly type, and a controller configured to manage the selection of the tool, loading the weight, and application of the weight to the assembly in station.