An inter-machine material handling system for micro-manufacturing based on using a standard carrier

作者：Sanchez Salmeron Antonio J^*; Lopez Tarazon Rafael; Guzman Diana Roberto; Ricolfe Viala Carlos

来源：International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, 2010, 47(9-12): 937-943.

DOI：10.1007/s00170-009-2137-1

• Material handling system
• Micro-manufacturing
• Standard carrier
• Automation
• Automated guided vehicles
• Conveyors

Lack of standardization is often a key problem area limiting the applications of any new automated micro-handling technology, due to that equipment makers may have to spend an excessive amount of time and resources to customize automation solutions. Carrier-based material handling systems provide product-independent solutions. Product independency is an essential requirement for re-using material handling systems, because they allow product change without mechanical changes in the transport devices. This paper describes a new automated inter-machine material handling system for micro-manufacturing integration, based on the standard carrier DIN-32561. The main task of the system is to transport (full/empty) carriers between different stations/machines in a micro-manufacturing plant, to integrate assembly and manufacturing. The authors designed a conveyor belt and an automated guided vehicle system to fit into a linear pick-and-place micro-manufacturing plant. Prototypes of the different components were then developed and tested.

• 出版日期2010-4