Rolling Mill Robot Tool Magazine for Compact Roll Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic systems for handling rolls and backup rollers in 20-roll rolling mills are cumbersome, require large operational footprints, and pose safety risks due to the need for manual guidance during extraction and insertion operations, which are hazardous and labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A robotic system with a tool change magazine and quick-coupling mechanism that allows for selective use of specialized gripping tools for work rolls, intermediate rolls, and backup rollers, enabling automated extraction and insertion without the need for prior adapter installation, and featuring a compact design that reduces operational space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a robotic system with multiple specialized gripping tools is implemented, then the adaptability and automation capability improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system employs a single multi-functional end effector that can selectively grip different types of rolls (work rolls, intermediate rolls, backup rollers) through tool changes. The end effector serves multiple functions by accommodating various gripping tools in a magazine and selecting the appropriate tool for each specific roll type, thereby achieving adaptability without proportionally increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping system is divided into modular components: a base end effector structure, a magazine containing multiple specialized gripping tools, and a tool selection mechanism. This segmentation allows the system to handle different roll types with specialized tools while maintaining a unified control architecture, balancing adaptability with manageable complexity
2Ease of operation
If manual guidance is provided during roll extraction operations, then the ease of operation improves, but the safety deteriorates due to operators being present near heavy moving elements
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system performs roll extraction and insertion operations autonomously without requiring operators to physically guide the heavy rolls. The system self-regulates the extraction process through automated positioning and control mechanisms, eliminating the need for manual guidance while maintaining operational ease through programmable sequences and sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic end effector acts as an intermediary between the control system and the heavy rolls. It provides automated guidance and control during extraction operations, serving as a mediator that eliminates the need for human operators to be present near moving heavy elements, thereby resolving the safety conflict while maintaining operational ease
3Area of stationary object
If a compact robotic system design is used, then the operational footprint is reduced, but the ease of operation may deteriorate due to limited space for manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves compactness by utilizing vertical space and three-dimensional positioning rather than requiring large horizontal footprints. The robotic arm operates in a multi-dimensional workspace around the mill stand, allowing full operational capability within a compact vertical envelope, thus reducing operational footprint while maintaining ease of operation through automated navigation
Data Source
AI summary
A metal strip rolling mill installation including a rolling mill (L), having a roll stand and a set of rolls, inside the stand. The installation includes a robotic system (1) suitable for performing the rolling mill roll changing operations. A gripping tool change magazine (MAG) includes a first grasping tool configured for inserting and extracting a work roll, a second grasping tool configured for inserting and extracting first intermediate rolls, a third grasping tool is configured for inserting and extracting second intermediate rolls, and a fourth grasping tool is configured for inserting and extracting sets of rollers.