Rotatable Robot Handling Wood Processing Workpieces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wood processing systems are complex and pose safety risks due to the need for coordinating multiple components, leading to inefficiencies and increased time before raw parts can be processed, with human interaction contributing to these issues.
Innovation Solution
A compact wood processing system utilizing a rotatable robot with a detection device and gripper to automate the handling and alignment of panel-shaped workpieces within a defined action space, minimizing human intervention and enabling complete enclosure for enhanced safety and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple components are coordinated to process workpieces through storage locations, alignment stations, and processing stations, then the processing capability is improved, but the system complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate functions (storage, alignment, processing, and handling) into an integrated processing center where a robot arm coordinates all operations. The robot serves as a central coordinator that replaces multiple independent handling systems, merging the functions of feeders, unloaders, and positioning devices into a single automated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The robot arm is designed as a universal device that can perform multiple functions: picking workpieces from storage locations, transporting them to alignment stations, loading them onto processing stations, and unloading finished parts. This single multi-functional device replaces what would traditionally require several specialized machines and handlers.
2Productivity
If multiple components are coordinated to process workpieces, then the processing capability is improved, but the processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robot arm operates continuously without idle transitions between separate machines. By maintaining a centralized position within the processing center, the robot eliminates the time losses associated with workpieces being transported between independent stations and handlers. The robot can continuously pick, place, and coordinate operations in a streamlined sequence without the delays of inter-machine transfer.
3Extent of automation
If human personnel interact with the system for feeding and removing workpieces, then the system requires less automation, but safety risks and inefficiency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The processing center is designed as a self-sufficient automated system where the robot arm independently performs all workpiece handling operations. The system feeds itself by having the robot pick workpieces from storage, position them for processing, and remove finished parts without requiring external human intervention. This self-service capability eliminates safety risks associated with human operators working within the processing zone.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If a compact system design is implemented with all components within robot reach, then the system can be fully enclosed for safety, but the installation space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent arranges storage locations, alignment stations, and processing stations in a nested or compact radial configuration around the robot arm's base. Components are positioned within the robot's maximum reach radius, creating a tightly integrated circular footprint. This nested arrangement allows all necessary components to fit within a compact enclosed space while maintaining full accessibility for the robot arm.
Data Source
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AI summary
The system, in particular a wood processing system, (100) for processing and handling sheet-shaped workpieces (W) made of wood, plastics, or wood substitutes, has at least one storage location (12-14) from which workpieces (W) can be removed or placed. The system further comprises at least one alignment station (2) at which workpieces (W) removed from a storage location (12-14) can be aligned, at least one processing station (6) which has a clamping device (18, 19) that holds the workpieces (W) during processing, and at least one processing unit (7) which is movable relative to the workpiece (W) clamped by the clamping device (18, 19). The system also has a gripping device (3), which in particular comprises at least one gripper (3a, 3b) or a suction clamp.The gripping device (3) is designed to be movable such that it can pick up a workpiece (W) at the alignment station (2) and transport it to the clamping device (18, 19) and place it there. Furthermore, the system includes a robot (8) which is rotatable about a rotary axis (A) and comprises a robot arm (9, 10) which has a gripping device (11) designed to pick up a workpiece (W), wherein the robot (8) is arranged such that it can pick up workpieces (W) from a storage location (12-14) and from the clamping device (18, 19) by means of a gripping device (11) and place them on the storage location (12-14) or another storage location (12-14) and the alignment station (2).