Application Device Speed-Dependent Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing application devices struggle to maintain homogeneous fluid product distribution on surfaces when the tool tip speed varies, due to compatibility issues and delays in adjusting the dosing flow rate, especially when used with older robotic arms that lack tool tip speed estimation functionality.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a speed measuring device capable of determining the outlet orifice's speed relative to an inertial frame of reference, with a control module that adjusts the metering flow rate in real-time to maintain a constant ratio with the measured speed, allowing for seamless adaptation to changing movement speeds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the tool tip speed varies during movement, then the dosing flow rate must be adjusted in proportion to maintain homogeneous distribution, but existing control systems introduce delays that make correction unsuitable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the speed measuring device, control module, and adjustment device into an integrated system mounted on the robotic arm. The control module receives speed information directly from the speed measuring device and immediately processes it to determine the dosing flow rate, eliminating intermediate transmission delays to external control cabinets. This merging of functions enables real-time correction of dosing flow in proportion to tool tip speed variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback loop where the speed measuring device continuously monitors the tool tip speed, the control module processes this information to determine the required dosing flow rate, and the adjustment device modifies the metering flow rate accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that dosing flow is automatically adjusted in real-time to maintain homogeneous distribution despite speed variations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the application device is mounted on older robotic arms without tool tip speed estimation functionality, then compatibility is achieved, but the dosing flow rate cannot be adjusted according to tool tip speed
Solution Approach 1:
The application device performs its own speed measurement using the integrated speed measuring device, eliminating the need for speed estimation functionality in the robotic arm or external control cabinets. The device is self-sufficient in obtaining speed information directly from its own mounted sensors, making it compatible with both older and newer robotic arm generations without requiring additional external functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The application device is designed as a universal solution that can be mounted on any robotic arm regardless of generation. By integrating the speed measuring device, control module, and adjustment device into a single self-contained unit, it provides both speed measurement and dosing flow adjustment capabilities that work with older robotic arms lacking speed estimation, while also being compatible with newer systems.
3Ease of operation
If the metering flow rate is maintained constant, then the system is easy to control, but homogeneous distribution cannot be achieved when tool tip speed varies
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static constant metering flow rate control to dynamic adjustment. The adjustment device modifies the metering flow rate in real-time based on the tool tip speed measured by the speed measuring device. The control module continuously calculates the required dosing flow rate as a function of the current speed, enabling the system to adapt dynamically to speed variations while maintaining homogeneous distribution.
Data Source
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AI summary
This application device (16) is intended for applying at least one fluid product onto a substrate. It comprises an application member (30) having an outlet (32) for the fluid product(s) to exit the application device (16) and, for at least one fluid product, a control member (36) capable of regulating the dosing rate of the fluid product through the outlet (32) according to a control setpoint for said control member (36) provided by a control module (38). The application device (16) also comprises a velocity measurement device (34) capable of determining a measured velocity of the outlet (32) relative to an inertial reference frame, the control module (38) being configured to determine the control setpoint based on said measured velocity.