Rotating Panel Shelf Structure for Faster TFT-LCD Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing panel-storing shelves in TFT-LCD manufacturing lines have fixed holding layers, requiring robots to perform complex 3-dimensional movements for panel placement or removal, leading to low transportation efficiency and reduced productivity due to the need for intricate robotic operations.
Innovation Solution
A panel-storing shelf with rotating tracks and brackets allows panels to move vertically, enabling more flexible operations and eliminating the need for robots by integrating a transporting stage that cooperates with the shelf for panel transfer, reducing the complexity and time of panel transportation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a fixed holding layer is used in the panel-storing shelf, then the structure is simple and stable, but the robot requires complex 3-dimensional movements for panel placement and removal, increasing operation time and reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the fixed holding layer into a dynamic system where brackets can move vertically along guide rails. The holding layers are no longer fixed in position but can be adjusted dynamically to bring panels to the optimal access position, eliminating the need for complex 3D robot movements and significantly improving panel transportation efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces vertical movement capability to the holding layers by adding guide rails and movable brackets. This transforms the traditionally horizontal 2D robot movement into a simplified operation where panels are brought vertically to the robot's working position, reducing the robot's movement complexity from 3D to primarily horizontal pickup operations
2Ease of operation
If a robot is used for panel placement and removal, then automation is achieved, but the operation time increases due to required 3-dimensional movements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically moving panels to the optimal pickup position before the robot arrives. The movable holding layers proactively bring panels to the robot's working position, so when the robot needs to pick up a panel, it is already in the correct position, eliminating waiting time and reducing overall operation time
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed holding layers are used, then manufacturing cost is lower, but transportation efficiency is reduced and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the holding layer into multiple independent movable brackets that can operate separately along guide rails. This segmentation allows individual panels to be moved to optimal positions independently, improving transportation efficiency without requiring a complete overhaul of the shelf structure, thus maintaining cost-effectiveness while enhancing productivity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances panel transportation efficiency and productivity by simplifying the movement process, reducing the reliance on robots, and saving maintenance costs while improving the flexibility of panel handling within the manufacturing line.
Implementation Method 1
at least two tracks respectively disposed around a surface of one of the at least two support members and capable of rotating about the respective support member
Data Source
AI summary
A panel-storing shelf comprises at least two support members, at least two tracks disposed around a surface of each of the at least two support members, respectively, to rotate about respective support member, and at least two brackets disposed on each of the at least two tracks, respectively, and at the same level, to hold the panel and rotate along with the track.