Transferring System Force Sensor Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing automatic production line transferring systems lack precision and sensitivity in handling and positioning target objects due to direct force sensor involvement in both detection and support, limiting their ability to accurately manage forces and maintain object alignment.

Innovation Solution

A transferring system comprising a moving unit, base unit, suspension unit, carrying unit, measuring unit, and controller, where the force sensor is used solely for detection, allowing precise force measurement and control of the vacuum tube to carry and position objects with feedback mechanisms, enabling accurate alignment and placement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the force sensor is connected directly between the fixed seat and the bracket to serve as both support structure and detection device, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates because the sensor cannot accurately detect force when it is also bearing support functions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure complexityVSAvoidforce detection precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the force sensing function from the support structure function. The support structure consists of the fixed seat, bracket, and connecting rod, while the force sensor is separately positioned to only detect forces without bearing structural loads. This segmentation allows each component to perform its dedicated function optimally.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The force detection function is extracted from the support structure. The force sensor is positioned to detect forces exerted by the suction cup on the workpiece, while the support structure (fixed seat, bracket, connecting rod) independently provides mechanical support. This extraction eliminates the conflict between support and detection functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Device complexity

If the force sensor is used for both support and detection functions, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates due to potential interference between support and detection functions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure complexityVSAvoiddetection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the force sensing function from the support structure function. The support structure consists of the fixed seat, bracket, and connecting rod, while the force sensor is separately positioned to only detect forces without bearing support loads. This segmentation allows each component to perform its dedicated function reliably.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The force detection function is extracted from the support structure. The force sensor detects forces exerted by the suction cup on the workpiece, while the support structure independently provides mechanical support. This extraction eliminates functional interference and improves detection reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Reliability

If the suction force is too strong to ensure stable holding, then the reliability improves, but the manufacturing precision deteriorates because the workpiece cannot be accurately positioned

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveholding stabilityVSAvoidpositioning accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback control through the force sensor that continuously monitors the suction force exerted on the workpiece. The controller adjusts the suction strength based on real-time force feedback, maintaining optimal holding force that ensures both stable holding and positioning accuracy. This prevents excessive suction force from causing positioning errors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

The system achieves improved precision and sensitivity in transferring and positioning target objects by using a force sensor for detection only, allowing for precise control of the vacuum tube's movement and alignment, enhancing the overall accuracy and reliability of the transfer process.

Implementation Method 1

a force sensor mounted on the base that is in contact with the extension part to detect force exerted on the force sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectForce detection: Force

Implementation Method 2

a tube extends through the second through hole and is configured to carry the target object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSuction: Suction

Data Source

PatentUS20230256623A1Transferring system
Publication Date: 2023.08.17 TOYO AUTOMATION CO LTD
  • US20230256623A1 patent drawing
  • US20230256623A1 patent drawing
  • US20230256623A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A transferring system includes a moving unit, a base unit secured on the moving unit, a suspension unit disposed on the base unit, a carrying unit, a measuring unit secured on the suspension unit, and a controller connected to the moving unit, the carrying unit and the measuring unit. The carrying unit includes a rotary motor and a rotary encoder secured on the suspension unit, and a tube carrying a target object. The rotary motor drives the tube to revolve. The measuring unit includes a force sensor in contact with the base unit. The controller controls operations of the moving unit and the rotary motor according to an angular position of the tube detected by the rotary encoder and a force detected by the force sensor.