Rotary Adapter Unit for Rapid Applicator Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing applicator connection units in application robots are designed for a single operating mode, making it complex and time-consuming to switch between different applicators with varying operating modes, leading to undesired downtimes in coating systems.
Innovation Solution
An adapter unit with a rotatably mounted rotary plate that can assume multiple connection positions, allowing for secure and automated attachment of applicators with different operating modes, and a coupling device like a bayonet lock for easy attachment and detachment, enabling quick switching between applicators without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the applicator connection unit is designed for a single operating mode, then the supply lines can be simplified and the design is more straightforward, but it becomes complex and time-consuming to switch between different applicators with varying operating modes
Solution Approach 1:
The supply lines are divided into multiple groups (first supply group, second supply group, etc.), where each group is dedicated to a specific operating mode. This segmentation allows the system to maintain simple, dedicated supply lines for each mode while enabling versatile switching between modes by selecting which supply group to activate.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection device incorporates a dynamic switching mechanism that can selectively connect different supply groups to the applicator's working lines based on the required operating mode. This dynamic reconfiguration enables the system to adapt between different applicator types without requiring complete redesign of the supply line infrastructure.
2Reliability
If manual detachment and replacement of applicators is performed, then the connection can be secure and reliable, but it leads to undesired downtimes in coating systems
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates an automated applicator exchange mechanism that performs the detachment and attachment operations without manual intervention. The robot can automatically detach an applicator from the connection flange and attach a replacement applicator, maintaining reliable connections while eliminating the time loss associated with manual operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If extensive modifications are made to adapt cables and supply lines for different applicators, then the system can support multiple operating modes, but the modifications are very complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator connection unit is designed as a universal interface that can accommodate multiple types of applicators with different operating modes. The connection flange and supply line groups are configured to provide universal compatibility, allowing the same connection unit to support various applicators without requiring extensive modifications to the underlying cable and supply line infrastructure.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an applicator connection unit for an application robot for coating objects (18) comprising supply lines (50) for an applicator (42). An applicator (42) can be fastened on the applicator connection unit in such a way that working lines (54) of the applicator (42) are connected to the supply lines (50) of the applicator connection unit (40). The applicator connection unit (40) is formed as an adapter unit (58) in such a way that at least one applicator (46) of a first mode of operation and one applicator (48) of a second mode of operation can be releasably and replaceably fastened to the applicator connection unit (40). The invention further relates to an application robot and a system for coating objects, wherein such an applicator connection unit is used.