Twistlock Clamping Robot for Multi-Type Container Lock Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robots for handling twistlocks are not versatile enough to operate various types of twistlocks, requiring frequent changes in clamping components and leading to high costs and low efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a clamping assembly featuring multiple pairs of clamping portions spaced apart by different distances, an operating assembly with translating and rotating mechanisms, and a switch operating assembly capable of engaging with different types of twistlock switches, allowing the robot to operate multiple twistlock types without changing clamping components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a robot is designed to operate a specific type of twistlock, then the operation reliability is improved, but the adaptability to different twistlock types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping assembly is designed with multiple pairs of clamping portions that can be selectively positioned to accommodate different types of twistlocks. The operating assembly can drive different pairs of clamping portions to clamp different types of twistlocks, enabling a single robot design to handle multiple twistlock varieties without sacrificing operational reliability for any specific type.
Solution Approach 2:
The robot incorporates a switch operating assembly that can dynamically adapt its operation mode based on the detected twistlock type. The system can switch between different clamping portions and operating modes to match the specific requirements of each twistlock type, maintaining reliable operation across diverse configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the robot is equipped with multiple pairs of clamping portions to handle different twistlock types, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping assembly is segmented into multiple pairs of clamping portions, each pair designed for specific twistlock types. This segmentation allows the system to handle different twistlock varieties with specialized clamping configurations while maintaining a modular structure that manages complexity through organized division of functions.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple pairs of clamping portions and their corresponding operating mechanisms are merged into a single integrated clamping assembly. This consolidation allows the robot to switch between different clamping configurations without requiring separate assemblies for each twistlock type, managing complexity through unified design while maintaining adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the robot frequently changes clamping components to operate different twistlock types, then the adaptability is maintained, but the productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The robot employs a vision system to detect and identify the twistlock type before the clamping operation begins. This preliminary detection allows the control system to pre-select the appropriate pair of clamping portions and configure the operating assembly in advance, eliminating the need for frequent physical changes during operation and maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch operating assembly enables dynamic adaptation to different twistlock types during operation. The system can switch between different clamping portions and operating modes on-the-fly based on real-time detection, maintaining adaptability without requiring frequent stops for component changes, thus preserving productivity.
4Reliability
If the robot is designed with specialized clamping components for each twistlock type, then the operation reliability is improved, but the loss of substance increases due to frequent component changes
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping assembly is designed as a universal system with multiple pairs of clamping portions that can handle different twistlock types. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for frequent replacement of specialized components for each twistlock type, reducing material consumption and waste while maintaining reliable operation across various twistlock configurations.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an apparatus and a method for operating a twistlock and an associated robot. The apparatus comprises a clamping assembly comprising a plurality of pairs of clamping portions spaced apart by different distances and adapted to engage with different types of twistlocks, respectively; and an operating assembly adapted to drive one of the plurality of pairs of clamping portions to clamp the twistlock and to drive the clamped twistlock to rotate, to allow the clamped twistlock to be mounted on or removed from a container. In this way, the apparatus according to embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to most types of twistlocks without changing the clamping assembly, thereby improving the operation efficiency and reducing the costs.