Robotic Tool Head Assembly for Faster Boring Machine Changeovers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current boring machine operations require manual and time-consuming tool head changes, leading to productivity losses and safety risks due to the lack of standardized locating or pick-up features for tool heads, making automated changes impractical and costly.
Innovation Solution
The development of special tool head adapters and robotic end effectors with camera and load cell capabilities enable automated tool head placement and assembly, allowing robots to accurately handle and assemble tool head-adapter assemblies on boring machines, reducing manual intervention and enhancing safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual tool head change is used, then flexibility in handling various tool head geometries is maintained, but productivity is reduced and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
A standardized adapter is introduced as an intermediary component between the robot end effector and the tool head. The adapter includes a standardized interface that the robot can grip and a complementary interface that connects to the tool head, enabling automated handling while accommodating various tool head geometries
Solution Approach 2:
The tool head system is segmented into two parts: the existing tool head geometry and the added standardized adapter. This segmentation allows the tool head to maintain its original function while the adapter provides the standardized interface for robotic automation
2Productivity
If automated robotic handling is implemented without standardized features, then productivity improves, but the complexity and cost of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter serves as a mediating component that simplifies the robotic end effector design. Instead of designing complex end effectors for each tool head geometry, the standardized adapter provides a uniform interface that any generic robotic gripper can handle
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized adapter creates a universal interface that can accommodate multiple tool head geometries. A single adapter design works with various tool heads, making the robotic system more versatile and reducing the need for specialized end effectors
3Extent of automation
If standardized adapters are added to tool heads, then automated handling becomes practical and cost-effective, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool head assembly is segmented into the original tool head and the separate standardized adapter. This segmentation allows the adapter to be a simple, standardized component rather than a complex integrated design, making automation practical and cost-effective
Data Source
AI summary
A method for machining a workpiece includes using a multi-axis robot to lift a tool head from a magazine. The robot attaches the tool head to an end of a drill tube. The drill tube is then rotated and longitudinally translated to machine the workpiece. The tool head is withdrawn from the machined workpiece longitudinally by moving the drill tube. The robot is used to disconnect the tool head, replace the disconnected tool head into a magazine and withdraw a different tool head from the magazine for attachment to the drill tube.