Automated Wall Panel Assembly with Articulating Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
The construction of wall panels, particularly those with rough openings for windows and doors, is hindered by limited automation, resulting in increased setup and change-over times due to variations in design and personal preferences, which complicates the fabrication process.
Innovation Solution
An automated system comprising an articulating arm unit with a gripper/nailer and a support surface, controlled by a computer program that interprets CAD files to position and secure building components, enabling the efficient assembly of wall panels with or without openings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated process is implemented for wall panel fabrication, then productivity and consistency are improved, but adaptability to custom designs and rough openings is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs adjustable positioning mechanisms and reconfigurable tooling that can dynamically adapt to different panel designs and rough opening configurations, allowing the automated system to handle custom designs without sacrificing productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for parameter changes in panel dimensions, opening locations, and board arrangements by modifying control inputs and positioning parameters, enabling customization while maintaining automated fabrication efficiency
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual fabrication is used for customized wall panels, then adaptability to design variations is improved, but loss of time and productivity are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-positions components and pre-configures tooling based on digital design data before fabrication begins, minimizing setup time and enabling quick change-overs between different panel designs without manual reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical fabrication with automated robotic arms and computer-controlled positioning, eliminating the time-consuming manual setup and measurement processes while maintaining design flexibility through software control
3Device complexity
If traditional nailing process is used for securing boards, then simplicity of device is improved, but productivity and precision are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines gripping, positioning, and nailing functions into an integrated automated end-effector mounted on a robotic arm, performing multiple operations in sequence without manual intervention, thereby increasing productivity while managing device complexity through functional integration
4Manufacturing precision
If automated gripping and positioning system is implemented, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual measurement and positioning with automated optical sensors, encoders, and computer-controlled robotic arms that achieve high positioning precision through digital control, managing complexity through software integration and standardized components
Data Source
AI summary
A device for constructing an assembly of building components includes an articulating arm unit and a gripper/nailer mounted on an end of the articulating arm unit. The gripper/nailer includes a gripping unit for grasping building components and positioning them in a predetermined arrangement and a nailing unit for inserting a fastener to secure the building components together.