Stacking Robots for Extreme Oversize Glass Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for handling and transporting large glass panels of extreme dimensions (greater than 40 meters in length and 6 meters in width) are inefficient and require complex, costly structures to prevent breakage and ensure secure stacking, particularly as they need to be coated on the smoother air side, which complicates handling.
Innovation Solution
A battery of stacking robots with pivotable arms and precision suction devices that can handle glass panels from the bath side, allowing for secure lifting and stacking without displacing the stacking shelf, using laser sensors for alignment and adjustable suction frames to manage the weight and size of the panels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a battery of stacking robots with pivotable arms and suction devices is used to handle glass panels from the bath side, then the handling speed and security are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the handling task among multiple independent stacking robots (a battery of robots) rather than using one complex robot. Each robot has a standardized pivotable arm with suction devices, allowing parallel operation to handle multiple panels simultaneously, thus improving productivity while keeping individual robot units relatively simple
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable arm design with adjustable suction devices serves multiple functions: it can approach panels from the bath side, lift panels vertically, move them horizontally to the stacking position, and place them on the stacking shelf. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized mechanisms, balancing complexity with productivity
2Ease of operation
If the holding mechanism is oriented by utilizing the ability to rotate freely and pivot freely about one or more axes, then the ease of operation is improved, but the stability of the object's composition worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The arm is designed with pivotable joints allowing free rotation and pivoting about multiple axes during the approach and lifting phases. This dynamic capability enables easy operation from the bath side and adaptation to panel positions. However, once the panel is lifted, the system transitions to a stable configured state for transport and stacking, minimizing unnecessary movements that could destabilize the panel
3Manufacturing precision
If laser sensors are used for alignment and adjustable suction frames are used to manage weight and size, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Traditional mechanical alignment methods are replaced with laser sensors that optically detect panel positions and guide the arm's movement. This substitution provides high alignment precision without complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms. The adjustable suction frames use sensor feedback to adapt their configuration to different panel weights and sizes, achieving precision through intelligent control rather than mechanical complexity
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
Enables rapid and secure handling and stacking of extremely large glass panels, minimizing vibration and avoiding costly structural adjustments, while ensuring the air side remains undisturbed for coating, thus overcoming the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
holding mechanisms, usually in the form of a sturdy frame, are moved toward the relevant glass panel for this purpose, connected thereto by means of suction cups
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method and device for turning large-area panels, in particular glass panels, in extreme oversize of the order of magnitude of more than 40 meters in length and over 6 meters in width, wherein pick-up from the bath side or from the air side is possible, the method comprising the following features: a) the glass panels (2) delivered on conveyor rollers of a transport device (3) are gripped by means of a plurality of stacking robots (1) that extend for the entire length of the glass panel (2) and are installed on respective robot base frames (19) on the air side or on the bath side by means of pivotable suction frames (6) and suction cups (5) fastened thereto, b) the glass panel (2) gripped in this manner is pivoted jointly by the plurality of stacking robots and set down on a stacking shelf (4).