Multi-Position Workpiece Feeding With Guided Parallel Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current workpiece feeding and removal devices require serial handling, which can lead to inefficiencies in processing capacity and precise handling of workpieces, especially when the processing device's capacity increases, as the order of workpiece placement and removal is critical for accurate processing.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a workpiece feeding and removal device with multiple receiving and removal positions, along with signaling means such as optical and acoustic signals, to guide workers on the correct placement and removal of workpieces based on a predetermined processing program, allowing for parallel handling and optimized processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If serial workpiece handling is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The handling system is segmented into multiple independent workpiece receiving positions (first, second, third positions) and multiple removal positions, allowing parallel processing of multiple workpieces simultaneously. Each position can be independently occupied or emptied based on processing needs, transforming a single-queue serial system into a multi-position parallel system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a single-dimensional serial queue to a two-dimensional array of positions by adding multiple receiving positions arranged in different locations (front, rear, left, right sides of the processing device). This spatial dimensionality allows simultaneous access to multiple workpieces from different positions, enabling parallel handling operations.
2Productivity
If multiple workpiece positions are added, then productivity increases, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
A signaling system provides real-time feedback to operators by illuminating specific receiving positions that require workpiece placement. The signal lights guide operators to the correct position, automatically providing direction based on the current processing state and reducing the cognitive load of determining where to place workpieces in a multi-position system.
Solution Approach 2:
Optical signaling means (signal lights) change their state (on/off, different colors) to indicate different operational conditions at each receiving position. This visual information system allows operators to quickly identify which positions need workpieces without complex instructions, maintaining ease of operation despite multiple positions.
3Manufacturing precision
If workpiece order is strictly controlled, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-arranges multiple workpieces in different receiving positions according to the processing sequence before actual machining begins. By preparing the workpiece queue in advance across multiple positions, the system ensures correct processing order without requiring time-consuming sequential retrieval during machining operations.
Solution Approach 2:
While one workpiece is being processed, other workpieces are simultaneously prepared and positioned in the receiving positions. This continuous preparation and positioning of multiple workpieces in parallel maintains the correct processing sequence while eliminating idle time between workpiece changes, ensuring both precision and efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a workpiece feeding device (1) with at least two workpiece receiving positions (2, 3) for placing a workpiece (4) in the respective receiving position (2, 3) and with at least one workpiece removal position (7) for removing a workpiece (4), with workpiece conveying means (9) for conveying placed workpieces (4) in a conveying direction (10) from the at least one workpiece receiving position (2, 3) to one of the workpiece removal positions (7), wherein at least one signaling means (11) is provided for signaling a selected workpiece receiving position (2, 3) in which a workpiece (4) can be placed. The invention also relates to a workpiece removal device and related methods.