JP2018058172A - Robot system and operation method of the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a robot system which suppresses interference between adjacent robot arms and can relax a condition of simultaneity of operation when a plurality of robot arms convey workpieces.SOLUTION: A robot system includes: an input device 2; a robot arm 1 which performs a series of works including a plurality of processes; a conveyance path 8 including a plurality of work areas 9 in which an operator works on a workpiece 6; and a control device. The plurality of robot arms 1 are arranged side by side so as to correspond to the plurality of work areas 9 along the conveyance path 8. A temporary storage place 10 for temporarily storing the workpiece 6 is arranged on the conveyance path 8 between the adjacent robot arms 1. The control device operates the respective robot arms 1 so as to convey and temporarily store the workpiece 6 in the temporary storage place 10 on a downstream side of the conveyance path 8 when work completion information indicating completion of the work on the workpiece is input from the input device 2.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

  The present invention relates to a robot system and an operation method thereof.

  There is known a transporting apparatus that transports a work that is put into an assembly line from the most upstream side and is sequentially assembled in the assembly line from upstream to downstream in each assembly process (see, for example, Patent Document 1). . In the transfer device disclosed in Patent Document 1, a plurality of transfer robots are provided for each of a plurality of assembly processes, and a plurality of workpieces are simultaneously reciprocated by a single mechanism, thereby moving a plurality of workpieces. Tact is being transported.

WO2009 / 004686

  However, in the transfer apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1, if a plurality of transfer robots do not operate accurately at the same time, adjacent robots may interfere with each other, and the workpiece may not be transferred to the next process. .

  The present invention solves the above-described conventional problems, suppresses interference between adjacent robots (robot arms), and relaxes the condition of simultaneous operation when a plurality of robot arms transport workpieces. An object of the present invention is to provide a robot system and a method for operating the robot system.

  In order to solve the above-described conventional problems, a robot system according to the present invention includes an input device that receives an input from an operator, a robot arm that performs a series of operations including a plurality of steps, and the operator A storage path in which operation sequence information, which is information related to an operation sequence defining a series of operations performed by the robot arm, a transfer path including a plurality of work areas, a control device, A plurality of the robot arms are arranged along the transfer path so as to correspond to the plurality of work areas, and the workpiece is temporarily placed between the adjacent robot arms on the transfer path. A temporary storage place is provided, and the control device receives work completion information indicating that the work on the workpiece has been completed from the input device. Once, to temporarily placed by conveying the workpiece to the temporary field downstream side in the transport path, to operate each said robotic arm.

  Thereby, the distance between adjacent robot arms can be increased, and interference between adjacent robot arms can be suppressed. For this reason, the condition of the simultaneity of operation can be relaxed.

  The robot system driving method according to the present invention includes an input device that receives input from an operator, a robot arm that performs a series of operations including a plurality of steps, and the operator performs work on a workpiece. In a method for operating a robot system, comprising: a transfer path including a plurality of work areas; and a storage device storing operation sequence information that is information related to an operation sequence defining a series of operations performed by the robot arm. A plurality of the robot arms are arranged along the transfer path so as to correspond to the plurality of work areas, and the workpiece is temporarily placed between the adjacent robot arms on the transfer path. Temporary storage space is provided, and work completion information indicating that work on the workpiece has been completed is input from the input device. When, as temporarily placed by conveying the workpiece to the temporary field downstream side in the transport path, including each said robotic arm is operated (A).

  Thereby, the distance between adjacent robot arms can be increased, and interference between adjacent robot arms can be suppressed. For this reason, the condition of the simultaneity of operation can be relaxed.

  According to the robot system and the operation method thereof of the present invention, it is possible to suppress interference between adjacent robot arms, and to relax the condition of simultaneity of operations when a plurality of robot arms transfer workpieces.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of the robot system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the robot system shown in FIG. 1 viewed from the lateral direction. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the robot system shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a state where the robot system according to the first embodiment is arranged along the production line. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram for explaining the concept of the operating radius of the robot system shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation when changing the position or posture of the workpiece in the robot system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation when a workpiece is transferred in the robot system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation when a workpiece is transferred in the robot system according to the first modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the robot system of Modification 2 in Embodiment 1 is arranged along the production line. FIG. 10 is an enlarged schematic view of a part of the robot system shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation when changing the position or posture of a workpiece in the robot system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the robot system according to the first modification example in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a table showing an example of the first operation amount stored in the storage device shown in FIG. FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation when changing the position or posture of a workpiece in the robot system according to the first modification of the second embodiment. FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a robot system according to the second modification example in the second embodiment. FIG. 16 is a table showing an example of the first operation range stored in the storage device shown in FIG. FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation when changing the position or posture of a workpiece in the robot system according to the second modification of the second embodiment. FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation when a workpiece is transferred in the robot system according to the third embodiment. FIG. 19 shows a case in which intrusion of an operator or the like into the work area is detected when changing at least one of the position and posture of the workpiece or when transferring the workpiece in the robot system according to the fourth embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of the robot system in. FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation when changing the position or posture of a workpiece in the robot system according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation when changing the position or posture of a workpiece in the robot system according to the first modification example in the fifth embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In all the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description is omitted. Moreover, in all drawings, the component for demonstrating this invention is extracted and illustrated, and illustration may be abbreviate | omitted about another component. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the following embodiment.

(Embodiment 1)
The robot system according to the first embodiment includes an input device that receives input from an operator, a robot arm that performs a series of operations including a plurality of steps, and a plurality of operations in which the operator performs operations on a workpiece. A transfer path including a region, a storage device that stores operation sequence information that is information related to an operation sequence that defines a series of operations performed by the robot arm, and a control device. A plurality of robot arms are arranged in parallel so as to correspond to a plurality of work areas, and the transfer path is provided with a temporary storage place for temporarily placing a workpiece between adjacent robot arms. When work completion information indicating that the work on the work has been completed is input from the device, the work is transported to a temporary storage place on the downstream side of the transport route and temporarily placed So that the, to operate each robot arm.

  Further, in the robot system according to the first embodiment, the control device may operate each robot arm so as to transport the workpiece temporarily placed in the temporary placement place on the upstream side in the transfer route to the work area. .

  Further, in the robot system according to the first embodiment, the temporary storage area includes, in adjacent robot arms, the operating radius of the upstream robot arm in the transfer path and the operating radius of the downstream robot arm in the transfer path. It may be provided so as to correspond to the ratio.

  In the robot system according to the first embodiment, when the first process end information indicating that the predetermined first process is completed is input from the input device to the control apparatus, the control apparatus performs the first process of the first process. The work content of the second process, which is the next process, is output, and at least one of the position and posture of the work held by the robot arm is changed so that the work target position of the second work on the work faces the operator You may be comprised so that it may make.

  Further, in the robot system according to the first embodiment, when the control device receives the first process end information from the input device, the robot arm holds the work content of the second step output from the output device. It may be configured to change at least one of the position and posture of the workpiece.

  Furthermore, in the robot system according to the first embodiment, when the first process end information is input from the input device, the control device changes at least one of the position and posture of the workpiece held by the robot arm. Later, the work content of the second step may be output to the output device.

  Hereinafter, an example of the robot system according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Robot system configuration]
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of the robot system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the robot system shown in FIG. 1 viewed from the lateral direction. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the robot system shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a state where the robot system according to the first embodiment is arranged along the production line. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram for explaining the concept of the operating radius of the robot system shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 4, alphabetic suffixes are added to distinguish the robot arms and the like, but the suffixes are omitted to indicate arbitrary robot arms.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment includes a robot arm 1, an input device 2, an output device 3, a control device 4, a storage device 5, a sensor 7, a transport path 8, and When the first process end information indicating that the predetermined first process has been completed is input from the input device 2 to the output device 3, the control apparatus 4 includes the work area 9. The work content of the second process is output, and the position or posture of the work 6 held by the robot arm 1 is changed so that the work target position of the second process on the work 6 faces the operator. It is configured.

  The conveyance path 8 is a space where the workpiece 6 is conveyed or placed, and is a work space where the robot arm 1 operates. In FIGS. 1, 4, and 5, the horizontal direction in the figure is the conveyance direction of the workpiece 6.

  A work table 21 and a chair 22 are arranged outside the transport path 8. An input device 2 and an output device 3 are placed on the work table 21. The work table 21 may be equipped with tools and the like necessary for work.

  In addition, a work area 9, which is an area where an operator (operator) performs work on the work 6, is provided in the transport path 8. Further, the robot arm 1 and the sensor 7 are arranged in the transport path 8. More specifically, the robot arm 1 is disposed at a position away from the work area 9 when viewed from above. On the other hand, the sensor 7 is disposed in the vicinity of the work area 9 and is disposed so as to face the robot arm 1 when viewed from above. The sensor 7 is configured to detect entry of an operator or the like, and for example, each sensor such as an infrared sensor can be used.

  As shown in FIG. 4, in the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment, a plurality of robot arms 1 are juxtaposed along a linearly formed transport path 8, and these robot arms 1 is composed of the same type of robot arm.

  In addition, a plurality of work areas 9 are provided on the transfer path 8, and the robot arm 1 is arranged so as to correspond to each work area 9. Specifically, the robot arm 1A is arranged so as to correspond to the work area 9A. Similarly, the robot arm 1B is disposed so as to correspond to the work area 9B, and the robot arm 1C is disposed so as to correspond to the work area 9C.

  Further, a temporary storage place (first storage place) 10 for temporarily placing the work 6 (for temporarily placing) the work 6 is provided between the adjacent robot arms 1 and 1 in the transfer path 8. The temporary storage place 10 is located at an intermediate portion (intermediate point) between the adjacent robot arms 1 and 1 in the conveyance direction of the workpiece 6. That is, the temporary storage area 10 corresponds to the ratio between the operating radius of the upstream robot arm 1 in the transfer path 8 and the operating radius of the downstream robot arm 1 in the transfer path 8 in the adjacent robot arms 1 and 1. To be provided.

  Here, the operating radius of the robot arm 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 5, when viewed from above, the operation region of the robot arm 1 has a substantially circular shape (fan shape) centering on an axis 151 of the first joint JT1 described later. In the present specification, the length of the axis 151 and the point farthest from the axis 151 in the operation region of the robot arm 1 is referred to as an operation radius r.

  In the first embodiment, since the robot arm 1A, the robot arm 1B, and the robot arm 1C have the same operation radius r, the temporary storage place 10 is positioned at an intermediate portion between the adjacent robot arms 1 and 1. doing. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, a straight line passing through the midpoint of a straight line A connecting the axis 151A of the first joint JT1 in the robot arm 1A and the axis 151B of the first joint JT1 in the robot arm 1B. A temporary storage 10A is provided on A1. Similarly, a temporary storage place 10B is provided on a straight line B1 passing through a midpoint of a straight line B connecting the axis 151B of the robot arm 1B and the axis 151C of the robot arm 1C.

  Thereby, interference between the adjacent robot arms 1 and 1 can be suppressed, and the condition of the simultaneity of the operation can be relaxed when the plurality of robot arms 1 transport the workpiece 6.

  Further, the temporary storage place 10 is located closer to the work area 9 than the intermediate portion of the transfer path 8 in a direction perpendicular to the transfer direction of the workpiece 6. Thereby, the time which conveys the workpiece | work 6 currently hold | maintained in the work area 9 to the temporary storage place 10 can be shortened.

  When the work end information indicating that the work on the work 6 by the worker is finished is output from the input device 2, the robot arm 1 transports the work 6 and the downstream temporary storage place 10 in the transport path 8. Temporary placement.

  Hereinafter, each device configuring the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment will be described in detail.

  The robot arm 1 is a robot that is installed in the transfer path 8 and performs a series of operations including a plurality of processes. Examples of a series of operations composed of a plurality of steps include operations such as assembly of parts to products and painting.

  The robot arm 1 according to the first embodiment is used in a production factory that assembles electric / electronic parts and the like to produce a product in a line production system or a cell production system, and follows a work table provided in the production factory. It is an articulated robot that can perform at least one of operations such as transfer, assembly or rearrangement of parts, and posture change with respect to the workpiece 6. However, the embodiment of the robot arm 1 is not limited to the above, and can be widely applied to an articulated robot regardless of a horizontal articulated type or a vertical articulated type.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the robot arm 1 includes a connecting body of a plurality of links (here, the first link 11a to the sixth link 11f) and a plurality of joints (here, the first joint JT1 to the sixth link). This is a multi-joint robot arm having a joint JT6) and a base 15 for supporting them.

  In the first joint JT1, the base 15 and the base end portion of the first link 11a are coupled to be rotatable about an axis extending in the vertical direction. In the second joint JT2, the distal end portion of the first link 11a and the proximal end portion of the second link 11b are coupled to be rotatable about an axis extending in the horizontal direction. In the third joint JT3, the distal end portion of the second link 11b and the proximal end portion of the third link 11c are coupled to be rotatable about an axis extending in the horizontal direction.

  In the fourth joint JT4, the distal end portion of the third link 11c and the proximal end portion of the fourth link 11d are coupled to be rotatable about an axis extending in the longitudinal direction of the fourth link 11d. In the fifth joint JT5, the distal end portion of the fourth link 11d and the proximal end portion of the fifth link 11e are coupled so as to be rotatable around an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the fourth link 11d. In the sixth joint JT6, the distal end portion of the fifth link 11e and the proximal end portion of the sixth link 11f are coupled so as to be able to rotate.

  Furthermore, a mechanical interface is provided at the tip of the sixth link 11f. An end effector 12 corresponding to the work content is detachably attached to the mechanical interface.

  Each of the first joint JT1 to the sixth joint JT6 is provided with a drive motor (not shown) as an example of an actuator that relatively rotates two members connected to each joint. The drive motor may be, for example, a servo motor that is servo-controlled by the control device 4. The first joint JT1 to the sixth joint JT6 each have a rotation sensor (not shown) for detecting the rotational position of the drive motor and a current sensor (not shown) for detecting a current for controlling the rotation of the drive motor. ) And are provided. The rotation sensor may be an encoder, for example.

  In the robot arm 1, the control device 4 is rotated by the drive motor in accordance with the input information of the robot arm 1 output from the input device 2 or the operation information defined in the operation sequence information 52 of the storage device 5 described later. The position of the distal end portion of the robot arm 1 is determined by controlling the angles of the first joint JT1 to the sixth joint JT6.

  The configuration of the robot arm 1 described above is an example, and the configuration of the robot arm 1 is not limited to this. The configuration of the robot arm 1 is appropriately determined according to the work content and work space performed using the robot arm 1. The configuration is changed.

  The input device 2 is a device that is installed outside the transport path 8 and receives input from an operator. Examples of the input device 2 include a teaching pendant, a master arm, a joystick, or a tablet. The input device 2 may be provided with an input unit for inputting a work start instruction, a work completion notification, and the like, which will be described later.

  Examples of the output device 3 include a display device such as a monitor, a speaker, and a printer. For example, when the output device 3 is configured by a display device, information transmitted from the control device 4 is displayed (output) as a video such as a character, a picture, an image, and a moving image. Further, when the output device 3 is configured by a speaker, the information transmitted from the control device 4 is output as audio information. Further, when the output device 3 is constituted by a printer, the information transmitted from the control device 4 is printed. In addition, the output device 3 may be the said tablet, when the input device 2 is comprised with the tablet.

  As illustrated in FIG. 3, the storage device 5 is a readable / writable recording medium, and stores a task program 51 and operation sequence information 52 of the robot system 100. In the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment, the storage device 5 is provided separately from the control device 4, but may be provided integrally with the control device 4.

  The task program 51 is created, for example, when the operator teaches using the input device 2 and is stored in the storage device 5 in association with the identification information of the robot arm 1 and the task. The task program 51 may be created as an operation flow for each work.

  The motion sequence information 52 is information related to a motion sequence that defines a series of work steps performed by the robot arm 1 in the work space. In the operation sequence information 52, the operation order of the work process and the control mode of the robot arm 1 are associated with each other. In the operation sequence information 52, a task program for causing the robot arm 1 to automatically execute the work is associated with each work process. The operation sequence information 52 may include a program for causing the robot arm 1 to automatically execute the work for each work process.

  The control device 4 controls the operation of the robot arm 1, and includes a receiving unit 40, an operation control unit 41, and an output control unit 42 as functional blocks. The control device 4 includes, for example, a calculation unit (not shown) including a microcontroller, MPU, PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), logic circuit, and the like, and a memory unit (not shown) including a ROM or a RAM. can do. Moreover, each functional block with which the control apparatus 4 is provided is realizable when the calculating part of the control apparatus 4 reads and executes the program stored in the memory part or the memory | storage device 5. FIG.

  Note that the control device 4 is not only configured as a single control device, but also configured as a control device group in which a plurality of control devices cooperate to execute control of the robot arm 1 (robot system 100). It may be a form.

  The receiving unit 40 receives an input signal transmitted from the outside of the control device 4. Examples of the input signal received by the receiving unit 40 include a signal transmitted from the input device 2, a signal transmitted from an input unit (not shown) other than the input device 2, and a detection signal transmitted from the sensor 7.

  When the receiving unit 40 receives an input from the input device 2 as an input signal, the operation control unit 41 determines an operation mode of a process performed by the robot arm 1 in a series of operations using the input as a trigger. The operation control unit 41 can determine the operation mode of the next process performed by the robot arm 1 with reference to the operation sequence information 52 stored in the storage device 5. When the operation mode is determined, the operation control unit 41 controls the robot arm 1 to operate in the determined operation mode.

  For example, when the operation control unit 41 determines to operate the robot arm 1 in the automatic operation mode, the operation control unit 41 reads the operation sequence information 52 and performs the operation specified by the program included in the operation sequence information 52. The arm 1 is controlled.

  When it is determined that the robot arm 1 is operated in the manual operation mode, the operation control unit 41 controls the robot arm 1 so as to operate based on the input received by the receiving unit 40 from the input device 2.

  Further, when it is determined that the robot arm 1 is to be operated in the hybrid operation mode, the operation control unit 41 reads the operation sequence information 52 and performs the operation specified by the program included in the operation sequence information 52. When the receiving unit 40 receives a correction instruction signal as an input signal from the input device 2 while 1 is operating by automatic operation, the operation by the automatic operation of the robot arm 1 is corrected to an operation according to the correction instruction signal from the input device 2. To do. Then, the operation control unit 41 stops the output of the correction instruction signal from the input device 2 and the reception unit 40 stops receiving the correction instruction signal, or resumes the automatic operation of the robot arm 1 from the input device 2. When the receiving unit 40 receives a signal instructing, the automatic operation of the robot arm 1 is resumed.

  When the robot arm 1 is operated in the automatic operation mode, the operation control unit 41 may transmit information indicating the end of the automatic operation mode to the output control unit 42 when the automatic operation mode of the robot arm 1 is completed. Thereby, the output control part 42 outputs the information which shows completion | finish of automatic operation mode to the output device 3 toward an operator, and the operator can understand that automatic operation mode was complete | finished.

  Here, the automatic operation mode means that the robot arm 1 automatically performs an operation according to a preset program. In addition, the manual operation mode means that the robot arm 1 operates according to the input received from the input device 2, and the robot arm 1 may be operated so as to completely follow the input received from the input device 2. The robot arm 1 may be operated while correcting the input received from the input device 2 using a preset program (for example, camera shake correction). Further, the hybrid operation mode means that the operation of a robot arm that is operating by automatic operation is corrected by manual operation.

  The operation control unit 41 receives a detection signal indicating that an operator or the like has entered the work area 9 of the transfer path 8 from the sensor 7 when the robot arm 1 is operated. When the signal is received via 40, the operation of the robot arm 1 is suppressed. Examples of the suppression of the operation of the robot arm 1 include slowing the operation speed of the robot arm 1 or stopping the robot arm 1.

  Furthermore, when the first process end information (first process end signal) indicating that the predetermined first process has ended is input from the input device 2 via the receiving unit 40, the operation control unit 41 receives the operation sequence information. The work content information of the second process, which is the next process of the first process, stored in 52 is acquired, and the acquired work content information of the second process is output to the output control unit 42.

  The output control unit 42 controls the output device 3 and outputs information notified to the operator or the like as video information, image information, audio information, or the like. Specifically, for example, the output control unit 42 controls the output device 3 to output the work content information of the second process output from the operation control unit 41.

[Operation and effects of robot system]
Next, operations and effects of the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. The operation of the operator operating the input device 2 to operate the robot arm 1 to perform a series of operations is performed in the same manner as a known robot system, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted. In addition, the following operation is executed by the calculation unit of the control device 4 reading out a program stored in the memory unit or the storage device 5.

  First, the operation of changing the position or posture of the workpiece 6 in the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation when changing the position or posture of the workpiece in the robot system according to the first embodiment.

  As illustrated in FIG. 6, the control device 4 determines whether or not first process end information indicating that a predetermined first process has ended is input from the input device 2 (step S <b> 101). Specifically, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines whether or not the first process end information is input from the input device 2 via the receiving unit 40.

  When it is determined that the first process end information is not input from the input device 2 (No in step S101), the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 ends the program. Note that when the program is terminated, the control device 4 executes the program again after 50 msec, for example. On the other hand, when the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines that the first process end information is input from the input device 2 (Yes in Step S101), the operation control unit 41 executes the process shown in Step S102.

  In step S <b> 102, the control device 4 causes the output device 3 to output work content information of the second process, which is the process subsequent to the first process. Specifically, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 acquires the work content information of the second process stored in the operation sequence information 52 of the storage device 5, and uses the acquired work content information of the second process. Output to the output control unit 42. The output control unit 42 outputs the work content information of the second process input from the operation control unit 41 to the output device 3. Thereby, the output device 3 outputs the work content of the second step to the operator.

  Next, the control device 4 changes the position or posture of the workpiece 6 held by the robot arm 1 (step S103). Specifically, based on the work content information of the second process acquired in step S102, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 so that the work target location of the second process in the workpiece 6 faces the operator. The robot arm 1 is operated. In other words, the operation control unit 41 operates the robot arm 1 so that the work target location of the second process in the workpiece 6 is located on the outer side of the transport path 8.

  Note that the position or posture changing operation of the workpiece 6 is controlled by the control device 4 so that the angles of the joints of the first joint JT1 to the sixth joint JT6 of the robot arm 1 are set to preset angles. Can be executed.

  Next, when the operation for changing the position or posture of the workpiece 6 is completed, the control device 4 causes the output device 3 to output position or posture change end information (step S104), and ends the program. Thereby, the operator can perform the operation | work of a 2nd process.

  In the first embodiment, the controller 4 changes the position or posture of the workpiece 6 after outputting the work content information of the second process, but is not limited thereto. For example, after the control device 4 changes the position or posture of the workpiece 6, a form of outputting the work content information of the second process may be adopted. The output of the work content information of the second process and the work 6 A mode in which the position or posture changing operation is simultaneously performed may be employed.

  Next, the transfer operation of the workpiece 6 in the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5 and FIG.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation when a workpiece is transferred in the robot system according to the first embodiment.

  As illustrated in FIG. 7, the control device 4 determines whether or not work end information indicating that the work on the work 6 has been completed is input from the input device 2 (step S <b> 201). Specifically, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines whether or not work end information is input from the input device 2 via the reception unit 40.

  If the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines that the work end information has not been input from the input device 2 (No in step S201), the operation control unit 41 ends the program. Note that when the program is terminated, the control device 4 executes the program again after 50 msec, for example. On the other hand, when the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines that the work end information is input from the input device 2 (Yes in step S201), the operation control unit 41 executes the process shown in step S202.

  In step S202, the control device 4 transports the workpiece 6 held by the robot arm 1 in each work area 9 to the temporary storage 10 on the downstream side in the transport direction with respect to the robot arm 1, and The robot arm 1 is operated so as to be temporarily placed in the storage place 10.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 moves the robot arm 1A so as to transport the workpiece 6 held by the robot arm 1A in the work area 9A to the temporary storage place 10A. Make it work. Similarly, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 operates the robot arm 1B so as to transport the workpiece 6 held by the robot arm 1B in the work area 9B to the temporary storage place 10B. Further, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 operates the robot arm 1C so as to transport the workpiece 6 held by the robot arm 1C in the work area 9C to a temporary storage place (not shown).

  As described above, the control device 4 may adopt a configuration in which each robot arm 1A, 1B, and 1C is controlled by one control device 4, and one robot arm 1 may be controlled by one. A form controlled by the device 4 may be adopted.

  Next, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 operates the robot arm 1 so that each robot arm 1 holds the workpiece 6 temporarily placed on the temporary placement place 10 on the upstream side in the transport direction (step S203). ).

  Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 causes the robot arm 1C to move the workpiece 6 placed in the temporary storage place 10B on the upstream side in the transport direction with respect to the robot arm 1C. The robot arm 1C is operated so as to hold it. Similarly, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 holds the robot arm 1B with respect to the robot arm 1B so that the robot arm 1B holds the workpiece 6 placed in the temporary storage place 10A on the upstream side in the transport direction. Make it work. In addition, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 controls the robot arm 1A so that the robot arm 1A holds the workpiece 6 placed in a temporary storage place (not shown) on the upstream side in the transport direction. The arm 1A is operated.

  Next, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 operates each robot arm 1 so that the work 6 held in step S203 is transferred to the work area 9 corresponding to each robot arm 1 (step S204).

  Next, when the transfer operation of the workpiece 6 is completed, the control device 4 causes the output device 3 to output transfer completion information via the output control unit 42 (step S205), and ends this program. Thereby, the operator can start work on the workpiece 6.

  In the first embodiment, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 employs a mode in which the operations (processes) of step S203 and step S204 are performed in two steps, but the present invention is not limited to this. A form in which the operations of step S203 and step S204 are executed in one step may be adopted.

  Further, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 performs an operation on the workpiece 6 when the conveyance end information is output to the output device 3 in step S205 or after the conveyance end information is output to the output device 3. The contents of the work may be output to the output device 3.

  In the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment configured as described above, when the control device 4 receives the first process end information from the input device 2, the operation content of the second process is transmitted to the output device 3. Output. Thereby, the operator (operator) can grasp | ascertain the work content of a 2nd process easily.

  Further, in the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment, when the control device 4 receives the first process end information from the input device 2, the work target location of the second process on the workpiece 6 faces the operator. Thus, the position or posture of the workpiece 6 held by the robot arm 1 is changed. Thereby, the work object location of the 2nd process in the workpiece | work 6 is turned to an operator. For this reason, even when there are a plurality of work targets similar to the workpiece 6, the operator can perform work on the correct work target location. For this reason, an operator's burden is reduced and working efficiency can be improved.

  In the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment, a plurality of robot arms 1 are arranged along the transfer path 8 so as to correspond to the plurality of work areas 9, and adjacent to the transfer path 8. A temporary storage place 10 for temporarily placing the workpiece 6 is provided between the robot arms 1 to be operated. The temporary storage 10 corresponds to the ratio between the operating radius of the upstream robot arm 1 in the transfer path 8 and the operating radius of the downstream robot arm 1 in the transfer path 8 in the adjacent robot arms 1 and 1. To be provided.

  Thereby, the interference between the adjacent robot arms 1 and 1 is suppressed, and when the plurality of robot arms 1 and 1 convey the workpiece 6, the condition of the simultaneity of operation can be relaxed.

  Further, in the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment, when the work end information is input from the input device 2, the control device 4 transports the workpiece 6 to the temporary storage place 10 on the downstream side in the transport path 8 and temporarily Each robot arm 1 is operated so as to be placed. As described above, since the condition of simultaneous operation of the robot arm 1 can be relaxed, each worker can concentrate on his / her work. For this reason, an operator's burden is reduced and working efficiency can be improved.

  In the first embodiment, a form in which the transport path 8 is formed in a straight line is adopted. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a form in which the transport path 8 is formed in a U shape is adopted. Also good.

[Modification 1]
Next, a modified example of the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment will be described.

  In the robot system according to the first modification of the first embodiment, when the control device transports the work temporarily placed on the temporary placement place on the downstream side of the transport path to the work area, the work target location on the work is the work area. The robot arm is moved so as to face the operator located in the position.

  Hereinafter, an example of the robot system according to the first modification will be described with reference to FIG. Note that the robot system according to the first modification has the same configuration as the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment, and thus a detailed description of the configuration is omitted.

[Operation and effects of robot system]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation when a workpiece is transferred in the robot system according to the first modification of the first embodiment. In addition, the following operation | movement is performed when the calculating part of the control apparatus 4 reads the program stored in the memory part or the memory | storage device 5. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the operation when the workpiece 6 is transferred in the robot system 100 of the first modification is basically the same as the operation of the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment, but step S204 is performed. A difference is that the operation of step S204A is executed instead of the above operation.

  Specifically, in step S204A, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 conveys the workpiece 6 so that the work target location where the operator performs the work on the workpiece 6 faces the operator, or the workpiece After transporting 6 to the work area 9, the robot arm 1 is operated so that the position or posture of the work 6 is changed so that the work target position of the work 6 faces the operator.

  Even the robot system 100 according to the first modification configured as described above has the same effects as the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment.

  In the robot system 100 according to the first modification, when the robot arm 1 transports the workpiece 6, the control device 4 operates the robot arm 1 so that the work target portion of the workpiece 6 faces the operator. . Thereby, the operator can start work immediately after the workpiece 6 is conveyed, and the work time can be shortened. In addition, since the operator does not need to change the position or posture of the workpiece 6, the operator's work load can be reduced, and work efficiency can be improved.

[Modification 2]
In the robot system according to the second modification, the temporary storage site corresponds to the ratio between the operating radius of the upstream robot arm in the transfer path and the operating radius of the downstream robot arm in the transfer path in the adjacent robot arm. As is provided.

  Hereinafter, an example of the robot system according to the second modification will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10.

[Robot system configuration]
FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the robot system of Modification 2 in Embodiment 1 is arranged along the production line. FIG. 10 is an enlarged schematic view of a part of the robot system shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the robot system 100 according to the second modification has the same basic configuration as the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment, but four robot arms 1 are arranged. The operating radius of the robot arm 1C is larger than those of the other robot arms 1A, 1B, and 1D, and the positions where the temporary storage places 10B and 10C are arranged are different.

  Specifically, in the robot arm 1C, the lengths of the second link 11b, the third link 11c, and the fourth link 11d are the same as the second link 11b, the third link 11c, and the fourth link 11d of the robot arm 1A or the like. It is formed to be longer than the length of. As a result, the robot arm 1C can increase its operating radius r compared to the other robot arms 1A and the like.

  And the temporary storage place 10B located between the robot arm 1B and the robot arm 1C is provided so that it may be located in the part (point) close | similar to the robot arm 1B in the conveyance direction of the workpiece | work 6. FIG. Further, the temporary storage place 10C located between the robot arm 1C and the robot arm 1D is provided so as to be located in a portion close to the robot arm 1D in the transfer direction of the workpiece 6.

  More specifically, the temporary storage place 10B is configured such that, in a straight line B, the distance from the axis 151B of the robot arm 1B and the distance from the axis 151C of the robot arm 1C are the operating radius of the robot arm 1B and the robot arm. It is provided on a straight line B1 passing through a position (point) corresponding to the ratio of the operating radius of 1C. That is, in the temporary storage place 10B, the ratio of the distance from the axis 151B of the robot arm 1B to the temporary storage place 10B and the distance from the axis 151C of the robot arm 1C to the temporary storage place 10B is determined by the operating radius of the robot arm 1B. The robot arm 1C is provided so as to correspond to the ratio of the operating radius of the robot arm 1C.

  Similarly, in the temporary storage place 10C, the distance from the axis 151C of the robot arm 1C and the distance from the axis 151D of the robot arm 1D in the straight line C connecting the axes 151C and 151D are determined by the robot arm 1C. Are provided on a straight line C1 passing through a position (point) corresponding to the ratio between the operating radius of the robot arm 1D and the operating radius of the robot arm 1D. That is, in the temporary storage place 10C, the ratio of the distance from the axis 151C of the robot arm 1C to the temporary storage place 10C and the distance from the axis 151D of the robot arm 1D to the temporary storage place 10C is determined by the operating radius of the robot arm 1C. The robot arm 1D is provided so as to correspond to the ratio of the operating radius of the robot arm 1D.

  Even the robot system 100 according to the second modification configured as described above has the same effects as the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment.

  In the robot system 100 according to the second modification, when the robot arms 1 having different operating radii, that is, the robot arms 1 having different sizes are arranged in parallel on the transport path 8, the temporary radius depends on the ratio of the operating radii. The arrangement position of the storage place 10 is set. Thereby, the interference between the adjacent robot arms 1 and 1 is suppressed, and when the plurality of robot arms 1 and 1 convey the workpiece 6, the condition of the simultaneity of operation can be relaxed.

(Embodiment 2)
The robot system according to the second embodiment is the same as the robot system according to the first embodiment, except that the control device changes at least one of the position and posture of the workpiece held by the robot arm, The robot arm is operated so as to change at least one of the position and posture of the workpiece by the input.

  Hereinafter, an example of the robot system according to the second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG. Note that the robot system 100 according to the second embodiment has the same configuration as the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment, and thus a detailed description of the configuration is omitted.

[Operation and effects of robot system]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation when changing the position or posture of a workpiece in the robot system according to the second embodiment. In addition, the following operation | movement is performed when the calculating part of the control apparatus 4 reads the program stored in the memory part or the memory | storage device 5. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the operation when changing the position or posture of the workpiece 6 in the robot system 100 according to the second embodiment changes the position or posture of the workpiece 6 in the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment. The operation is basically the same as that when the operation is performed, except that the operation of step S104A is executed instead of the operation of step S104 and the operation of step S105 is executed.

  Specifically, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 changes the position or posture of the workpiece 6 held by the robot arm 1 in step S103, and then changes the position of the workpiece 6 via the output control unit 42. Alternatively, the output device 3 is made to output inquiry information as to whether or not to change the posture (step S104A).

  In response to this, the operator selects whether or not to change the position or posture of the work 6 and changes the position or the like of the work 6 by operating the input device 2 and instructing the change. The instruction information and the position information or posture information of the workpiece 6 are input to the receiving unit 40 of the control device 4. On the other hand, when the operator does not change the position or the like of the workpiece 6, the operator operates the input device 2 and inputs change-unnecessary information instructing that the change is unnecessary to the receiving unit 40 of the control device 4.

  Next, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines whether change instruction information or the like has been input from the input device 2 to the reception unit 40 (step S105). When the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines that no change instruction information or the like has been input from the input device 2 to the reception unit 40, that is, when it has determined that change-unnecessary information has been input to the reception unit 40 (step) In S105, the program ends.

  On the other hand, when the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines that the change instruction information or the like has been input from the input device 2 to the reception unit 40 (Yes in Step S105), the operation control unit 41 returns to Step S103 and inputs to the reception unit 40. The robot arm 1 is operated so as to change the position or posture of the workpiece 6 based on the positional information of the workpiece 6 and the like.

  Then, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 causes the output device 3 to output inquiry information as to whether or not to change the position or orientation of the workpiece 6 again after changing the position or orientation of the workpiece 6 (step S40). S104A), the operation shown in steps S103 to S105 is repeated until the operator operates the input device 2 and inputs change-unnecessary information to the receiving unit 40 of the control device 4.

  Even the robot system 100 according to the second embodiment configured as described above has the same effects as the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment.

  Further, in the robot system 100 according to the second embodiment, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 automatically changes the position or posture of the workpiece 6 and then the operator operates the input device 2 to change the workpiece. The position or posture of 6 can be changed. Accordingly, the position or posture of the workpiece 6 can be changed according to the preference of the operator's physique or the operator's work posture. For this reason, an operator's work burden can be reduced and work efficiency can be improved.

  Note that the robot system 100 according to the second embodiment is similar to the robot system 100 according to the first modification of the first embodiment, in which the control device 4 moves the workpiece 6 when the robot arm 1 transports the workpiece 6. The robot arm 1 is operated so that the work target portion faces the operator, and then the operator can operate the input device 2 to change the position or posture of the workpiece 6. May be.

[Modification 1]
Next, a modification of the robot system according to the second embodiment will be described.

  In the robot system according to the first modification of the second embodiment, the storage device stores a first operation amount that is a predetermined operation amount of the robot arm that is set in advance, and the control device is held by the robot arm. After changing at least one of the position and posture of the workpiece being moved, the robot arm is operated within the range of the first movement amount when at least one of the position and posture of the workpiece is changed by an input from the input device. It is configured to let you.

  Further, in the robot system according to the first modification, the first motion amount is set for each operator, and the storage device stores the operator information as the operator information and the first motion amount corresponding to the operator. The control device may be configured to set the first operation amount from the operator information stored in the storage device when the identification information regarding the operator is input from the input device.

  Furthermore, in the robot system according to the first modification, after the control device changes at least one of the position and the posture of the workpiece held by the robot arm, at least one of the position and the posture of the workpiece is input by an input from the input device. The first change amount, which is the change amount when one of them is changed, may be stored in the storage device, and the first operation amount may be set based on the first change amount stored in the storage device.

  Hereinafter, an example of the robot system according to the first modification will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Robot system configuration]
FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the robot system according to the first modification example in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a table showing an example of the first operation amount stored in the storage device shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the robot system 100 of the first modification in the second embodiment has the same basic configuration as the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment, but the first operation amount 53 is stored in the storage device 5. Is different in that is stored. Further, in the robot system 100 according to the first modification, the first change amount 54 may be stored in the storage device 5.

  The first operation amount 53 is an operation of the robot arm 1 when the robot arm 1 changes the position or posture of the workpiece 6 by the input from the input device 2 after the robot arm 1 automatically changes the position or posture of the workpiece 6. The speed or operating range is set. The first change amount 54 is a change amount when the position or posture of the workpiece 6 is changed by an input from the input device 2 after the robot arm 1 automatically changes the position or posture of the workpiece 6.

  As the first operation amount 53, a predetermined operation amount may be set in advance through experiments or the like and stored in the storage device 5. Further, as shown in FIG. 13, the first motion amount 53 is set for each operator, and an operator ID (operator information) that is identification information related to the operator and a first motion corresponding to each operator. The quantity may be stored as a table.

  Further, the first operation amount 53 may be set by the control device 4 based on the first change amount 54 stored in the storage device 5. In this case, for example, the control device 4 may set the latest first change amount 54 as the first operation amount 53, and calculates an average value or the like of the first change amount 54 stored in the storage device 5. Thus, the calculated value may be set as the first operation amount 53.

[Operation and effects of robot system]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation when changing the position or posture of a workpiece in the robot system according to the first modification of the second embodiment. In addition, the following operation | movement is performed when the calculating part of the control apparatus 4 reads the program stored in the memory part or the memory | storage device 5. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the operation for changing the position or posture of the workpiece 6 in the robot system 100 according to the first modification is performed when the position or posture of the workpiece 6 in the robot system 100 according to the second embodiment is changed. The operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines that the change instruction information or the like has been input from the input device 2 to the reception unit 40 (Yes in step S105). Is different in that the operation is executed.

  Specifically, in the operation of step S <b> 106, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 sets the first operation amount 53. More specifically, for example, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 may acquire and set the first operation amount 53 stored in the storage device 5.

  When the operator operates the input device 2 and the ID of the operator is input to the reception unit 40 of the control device 4, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 displays the input operator information Based on (for example, operator A), the first motion amount 53A corresponding to the operator information may be acquired from the table shown in FIG. 13, and the first motion amount 53A may be set as the first motion amount. .

  Further, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 calculates the amount of change when the position or orientation of the workpiece 6 is changed from the position information of the workpiece 6 input in step S105, and calculates the amount of change. The first change amount 54 is stored in the storage device 5. Then, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 may set the latest first change amount 54 stored in the storage device 5 as the first operation amount 53, and the first change amount stored in the storage device 5. An average value or the like of the change amount 54 may be calculated, and the calculated value may be set as the first operation amount 53.

  Next, the motion control unit 41 of the control device 4 controls the robot arm 1 so that the robot arm 1 operates within the range of the first motion amount set in step S106. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the robot arm 1 from moving suddenly or from moving in an unexpected direction. Moreover, it can suppress that the work object location of the workpiece | work 6 faces to the position away from the operator.

  Then, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 causes the output device 3 to output inquiry information as to whether or not to change the position or orientation of the workpiece 6 again after changing the position or orientation of the workpiece 6 (step S40). S104A), the operation shown in steps S103 to S106 is repeated until the operator operates the input device 2 and inputs change-unnecessary information to the receiving unit 40 of the control device 4.

  Even the robot system 100 according to the first modification configured as described above has the same effects as the robot system 100 according to the second embodiment.

  In the robot system 100 according to the first modification, after the control device 4 changes the position or posture of the workpiece 6 held by the robot arm 1, the position or position of the workpiece 6 is determined by an input from the input device 2. When the posture is changed, the robot arm 1 is configured to move within the range of the first movement amount.

  Thereby, it is possible to prevent the robot arm 1 from moving suddenly or from moving in an unexpected direction. Moreover, it can suppress that the work object location of the workpiece | work 6 faces to the position away from the operator.

  Further, in the robot system 100 according to the first modification, when the control device 4 receives the identification information about the operator from the input device 2, the control device 4 calculates the first operation amount 53 from the operator information stored in the storage device 5. It may be configured to set.

  As a result, the position or posture of the work 6 can be changed so as to be more suitable for the operator's physique or the operator's work posture or the like. For this reason, an operator's work burden can be reduced and work efficiency can be improved.

  Furthermore, in the robot system 100 according to the first modification, the control device 4 changes the position or posture of the workpiece 6 held by the robot arm 1, and then receives the position or position of the workpiece 6 by the input from the input device 2. A first change amount that is a change amount when the posture is changed may be stored in the storage device 5, and the first operation amount 53 may be set based on the first change amount 54 stored in the storage device 5. .

  As a result, the position or posture of the work 6 can be changed so as to be more suitable for the operator's physique or the operator's work posture or the like. For this reason, an operator's work burden can be reduced and work efficiency can be improved.

  In the first modification, the operation performed in step S106 is performed after step S105. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the operation of any one of the operations in steps S101 to S104A is performed. A form that is executed after executing may be adopted, or a form that is executed by a program different from the program may be adopted.

[Modification 2]
In the robot system according to the second modification of the second embodiment, the storage device stores a first motion range in which a predetermined motion range of the robot arm is set in advance, and the control device holds the robot arm. After changing the posture of the workpiece, the robot arm is operated within the first movement range when at least one of the position and posture of the workpiece is changed by an input from the input device.

  In the robot system according to the second modification, the first motion range is set for each operator, and the storage device stores the operator information that is the operator information and the first motion range corresponding to the operator. Is stored, and the control device may be configured to set the first operating range from the operator information stored in the storage device when identification information regarding the operator is input from the input device. .

  Furthermore, in the robot system according to the second modification, after the control device changes at least one of the position and posture of the workpiece held by the robot arm, at least one of the position and posture of the workpiece is input by an input from the input device. At least one of the position information of the robot arm and the posture information of the robot arm when one of them is changed is stored in the storage device, and at least one of the position information of the robot arm and the posture information of the robot arm stored in the storage device is stored. In addition, the first operating range may be set.

  Hereinafter, an example of the robot system according to the second modification will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 to 17.

[Robot system configuration]
FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a robot system according to the second modification example in the second embodiment. FIG. 16 is a table showing an example of the first operation range stored in the storage device shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 15, the robot system 100 according to the second modification in the second embodiment has the same basic configuration as the robot system 100 according to the first modification in the second embodiment. The difference is that the operating range 55 is stored. In the robot system 100 according to the second modification, the position information 56 or the posture information 57 of the robot arm 1 input from the input device 2 may be stored after the position or posture of the workpiece 6 is automatically changed. .

  The first operation range 55 is an operation of the robot arm 1 when the position or posture of the workpiece 6 is changed by an input from the input device 2 after the robot arm 1 automatically changes the position or posture of the workpiece 6. The range is set. The position information 56 is position coordinates of the robot arm 1 input from the input device 2, and the posture information 57 is angle information of the joints JT 1 to JT 6 of the robot arm 1.

  The first motion range 55 may be stored in the storage device 5 in advance by setting the position coordinates of the robot arm 1 or the angle information of each joint JT1 to JT6 as a predetermined motion range through experiments or the like. Further, as shown in FIG. 16, the first operation range 55 is set for each operator, and an operator ID (operator information) that is identification information regarding the operator and a first operation corresponding to each operator. The range may be stored as a table.

  Further, the first motion range 55 may be set by the control device 4 based on the position information 56 or the posture information 57 stored in the storage device 5. In this case, for example, the control device 4 may set the latest position information 56 or posture information 57 as the first operation range 55, and the average value or posture information 57 of the position information 56 stored in the storage device 5. May be calculated and the calculated value may be set as the first operation range 55.

[Operation and effects of robot system]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation when changing the position or posture of a workpiece in the robot system according to the second modification of the second embodiment. In addition, the following operation | movement is performed when the calculating part of the control apparatus 4 reads the program stored in the memory part or the memory | storage device 5. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the operation when changing the position or posture of the workpiece 6 in the robot system 100 according to the second modification is the same as the operation when changing the position or posture of the workpiece 6 in the robot system 100 according to the first modification. Is basically the same, except that the operation of step S106A is executed instead of the operation of step S106.

  Specifically, in the operation of step S106A, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 sets the first operation range 55. More specifically, for example, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 may acquire and set the first operation range 55 stored in the storage device 5.

  When the operator operates the input device 2 and the ID of the operator is input to the reception unit 40 of the control device 4, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 displays the input operator information Based on (for example, operator A), the first motion range 55A corresponding to the operator information may be acquired from the table shown in FIG. 16, and the first motion range 55A may be set as the first motion range. .

  Further, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 stores the position coordinates of the robot arm 1 input in step S105 in the storage device 5 as the position information 56, or the angle information of JT1 to JT6 of each joint is the posture information. 57 is stored in the storage device 5. Then, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 may set the latest position information 56 or posture information 57 stored in the storage device 5 as the first operation range 55 and is stored in the storage device 5. The average value of the position information 56 or the average value of the posture information 57 may be calculated, and the calculated value may be set as the first operation range 55.

  Next, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 controls the robot arm 1 so that the robot arm 1 operates within the first operation range set in step S106A. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the robot arm 1 from moving suddenly or from moving in an unexpected direction. Moreover, it can suppress that the work object location of the workpiece | work 6 faces to the position away from the operator.

  Then, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 causes the output device 3 to output inquiry information as to whether or not to change the position or orientation of the workpiece 6 again after changing the position or orientation of the workpiece 6 (step S40). S104A), the operation shown in step S103 to step S106A is repeated until the operator operates the input device 2 and inputs change-unnecessary information to the receiving unit 40 of the control device 4.

  Even the robot system 100 according to the second modification configured as described above has the same effects as the robot system 100 according to the first modification in the second embodiment.

  In the second modification, the operation executed in step S106A is performed after step S105. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the operation in any one of the operations in steps S101 to S104A is performed. A form that is executed after executing may be adopted, or a form that is executed by a program different from the program may be adopted.

(Embodiment 3)
The robot system according to the third embodiment further includes an output device in the robot system according to the first or second embodiment, and the control device completes work indicating that work on the workpiece from the input device is finished. When the information is input, the output device is caused to output information that prompts the conveyance of the workpiece.

  In the robot system according to the third embodiment, the control device may operate each robot arm when the transfer start information indicating that the transfer of the workpiece is started is input from the input device.

  Hereinafter, an example of the robot system according to the third embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG. Note that the robot system 100 according to the third embodiment has the same configuration as the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment, and thus a detailed description of the configuration is omitted.

[Operation and effects of robot system]
FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation when a workpiece is transferred in the robot system according to the third embodiment. In addition, the following operation | movement is performed when the calculating part of the control apparatus 4 reads the program stored in the memory part or the memory | storage device 5. FIG.

  As illustrated in FIG. 18, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines whether or not work end information is input from the input device 2 via the reception unit 40 (step S301). If the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines that the work end information has not been input from the input device 2 (No in step S301), the program ends. Note that when the program is terminated, the control device 4 executes the program again after 50 msec, for example.

  On the other hand, when the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines that the work end information is input from the input device 2 (Yes in step S301), the operation control unit 41 executes the process shown in step S302.

  In step S <b> 302, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 causes the output device 3 to output information that prompts conveyance of the workpiece 6 via the output control unit 42. As the output of the information that prompts the workpiece 6 to be conveyed, the output device 3 may display, for example, character information such as “Please press a start button to start conveying the workpiece 6” on the monitor. Information may be output from the speaker by voice, and the start button may blink. At this time, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 may cause the output device 3 to output information that prompts another operator other than the operator who operates the input device 2 to convey the workpiece 6.

  Next, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines whether or not transfer start information indicating that the transfer of the workpiece 6 is started from the input device 2 (step S303). If the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines that the conveyance start information has been input (Yes in step S303), the operation control unit 41 executes the process shown in step S304.

  At this time, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 may determine that the conveyance start information is input when the conveyance start information is input from all the input devices 2 arranged along the conveyance path 8. Good. Further, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 starts the conveyance from any of the input devices 2 after outputting the information prompting the conveyance of the workpiece 6 to all the output devices 3 arranged along the conveyance path 8. When the information is input, it may be determined that the conveyance start information is input.

  In addition, since the process of step S304-step S307 is the same process as step S202-step S205 of the operation | movement when conveying the workpiece | work in the robot system 100 which concerns on Embodiment 1, the detailed description is abbreviate | omitted. .

  Even the robot system 100 according to the third embodiment configured as described above has the same effects as the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment.

  In the robot system 100 according to the third embodiment, when the work end information is input from the input device 2, the control device 4 causes the output device 3 to output information that prompts the conveyance of the workpiece 6. Thereby, the operator can easily understand that the work to be executed next is the conveyance of the workpiece 6. At this time, if the control device 4 is configured to cause the output device 3 to output information that prompts the operator other than the operator who operates the input device 2 to convey the workpiece 6, The operator can be notified that his / her work has been completed.

  Furthermore, in the robot system 100 according to the third embodiment, when the transfer start information is input from the input device 2, the control device 4 operates each robot arm 1. Thereby, the operator can convey the workpiece | work 6 at arbitrary timings. For this reason, an operator's work burden can be reduced and work efficiency can be improved.

(Embodiment 4)
The robot system according to the fourth embodiment further includes a sensor that detects intrusion into the work area in the robot system according to any one of the first to third embodiments. If the sensor detects entry into the work area while the arm is changing at least one of the position and posture of the workpiece, or the robot arm is transferring the workpiece, the robot arm operation is suppressed. It is configured as follows.

  Hereinafter, an example of the robot system according to the fourth embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG. Note that the robot system 100 according to the fourth embodiment has the same configuration as the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment, and thus detailed description of the configuration is omitted.

[Operation and effects of robot system]
FIG. 19 shows a case in which intrusion of an operator or the like into the work area is detected when changing at least one of the position and posture of the workpiece or when transferring the workpiece in the robot system according to the fourth embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of the robot system in. In addition, the following operation | movement is performed when the calculating part of the control apparatus 4 reads the program stored in the memory part or the memory | storage device 5. FIG. In addition, this program is used when the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 controls the robot arm 1 so as to change at least one of the position and posture of the workpiece 6 or the robot arm so as to transport the workpiece 6. It is executed when 1 is controlled.

  As illustrated in FIG. 19, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 indicates that an operator, an administrator of the operator, a tool, or the like has entered the work area 9 from the sensor 7 via the reception unit 40. It is determined whether or not intrusion information as information has been input (step S401).

  When the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines that no intrusion information is input from the sensor 7 (No in step S401), the program is terminated. Note that when the program is terminated, the control device 4 executes the program again after 50 msec, for example.

  On the other hand, when the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines that the intrusion information is input from the sensor 7 (Yes in Step S401), the operation control unit 41 executes the process shown in Step S402. In step S <b> 402, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 suppresses the operation of the robot arm 1.

  At this time, the motion control unit 41 of the control device 4 may suppress the motions of all the robot arms 1 arranged along the transport path 8, and the robot corresponding to the work area 9 into which the operator or the like has entered. The operation of the arm 1 may be suppressed, and the operation of the robot arm 1 corresponding to the work area 9 where the operator or the like has entered and the robot arm 1 adjacent to the robot arm 1 may be suppressed. Note that the operation of the robot arm 1 may be suppressed, for example, by reducing the moving speed of the robot arm 1 or by operating the robot arm 1.

  Next, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 causes the output device 3 to output warning information via the receiving unit 40 (step S403). As the output of warning information, character information such as “There is an intruder in the work area” may be displayed, the character information may be output as sound information from a speaker, or a siren may be sounded. .

  Next, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 inputs retraction information indicating that an operator or the like who has entered the conveyance path 8 has retreated out of the conveyance path 8 from the sensor 7 via the reception unit 40. It is determined whether it has been done (step S404). The evacuation information may be information indicating that the intrusion of the operator or the like is not detected after the sensor 7 detects the intrusion of the operator or the like. Further, the save information may be input via the receiving unit 40 by the operator operating the input device 2.

  If the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines that the save information has been input (Yes in step S404), the operation control of the robot arm 1 is released (step S405), and this program is terminated. When the movement speed of the robot arm 1 is reduced, the movement suppression may be released by increasing the movement speed of the robot arm 1, or when the movement of the robot arm 1 is prohibited. May be released by resuming the operation of the robot arm 1.

  Even the robot system 100 according to the fourth embodiment configured as described above has the same effects as the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment.

  In the robot system 100 according to the fourth embodiment, the control device 4 causes the robot arm 1 to change at least one of the position and posture of the workpiece 6 or the robot arm 1 is transporting the workpiece 6. When the sensor 7 detects intrusion into the work area, the operation of the robot arm 1 is suppressed. Thereby, the worker or the like can recognize the operation range of the robot arm 1.

(Embodiment 5)
The robot system according to the fifth embodiment includes an input device that receives input from an operator, a robot arm that performs a series of operations including a plurality of steps, a work area in which an operator performs work on a workpiece, An output device, a storage device that stores operation sequence information that is information relating to an operation sequence that defines a series of operations performed by the robot arm, and a control device. When the first process completion information indicating that the first process has been completed is input, the robot arm is operated so that the position to be a work target in the next process of the workpiece held by the robot arm faces the operator. The operation method of the input device for causing the output device to output is output to the output device.

  In the robot system according to the fifth embodiment, when the control device moves the work target location of the workpiece to a position facing the operator by the operator operating the input device, the work target location of the work May be configured to cause the output device to output that it has moved to a position facing the operator.

  Hereinafter, an example of the robot system according to the fifth embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG. The robot system 100 according to the fifth embodiment has the same configuration as that of the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment, and thus detailed description of the configuration is omitted.

[Operation and effects of robot system]
FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation when changing the position or posture of a workpiece in the robot system according to the fourth embodiment.

  As illustrated in FIG. 20, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines whether or not the first process end information is input from the input device 2 via the reception unit 40 (step S501). When it is determined that the first process end information is not input from the input device 2 (No in step S501), the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 ends the program. Note that when the program is terminated, the control device 4 executes the program again after 50 msec, for example.

  On the other hand, if the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 determines that the first process end information is input from the input device 2 (Yes in step S501), the operation control unit 41 executes the process shown in step S502. In step S502, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 uses the output control unit 42 to operate the robot arm 1 so that the work target position of the workpiece 6 in the second process faces the operator. The operation method 2 is output.

  Thereby, the operator can operate the input device 2 based on the operation method output to the output device 3.

  Next, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 operates the robot arm 1 on the basis of the position information of the robot arm 1 input from the input device 2 via the receiving unit 40 and moves the position of the workpiece 6. Alternatively, the posture is changed (step S503).

  Next, when the operation for changing the position or posture of the workpiece 6 is completed, the control device 4 causes the output device 3 to output position or posture change end information (step S504), and ends this program. Thereby, the operator can perform the operation | work of a 2nd process.

  In the robot system 100 according to the fifth embodiment configured as described above, when the control device 4 receives the first process end information from the input device 2, the work target location in the second process of the workpiece 6 is determined. An operation method of the input device 2 for operating the robot arm 1 so as to face the operator is output to the output device 3.

  Thereby, the operator can point the work target part of the 2nd process in the workpiece | work 6 to an operator by operating the input device 2 based on the operation method output to the output device 3. FIG. For this reason, even when there are a plurality of work targets similar to the workpiece 6, the operator can perform work on the correct work target location. For this reason, an operator's burden is reduced and working efficiency can be improved.

  Further, for example, when the type of the workpiece 6 is changed or the configuration of the production line is changed, the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment causes the work target portion of the workpiece 6 to face the operator. In order to operate the robot arm 1, it is necessary to change the task program 51 or the operation sequence information 52 stored in the storage device 5, and it may take time to respond.

  However, in the robot system 100 according to the fifth embodiment, it is only necessary to change the operation method information of the input device 2 to be output to the output device 3, so that it is possible to respond quickly to changes in the production line and the like. it can.

[Modification 1]
Next, a modified example of the robot system 100 according to the fifth embodiment will be described.

  In the robot system according to the first modification of the fifth embodiment, when the control device moves to a position where the work target position of the workpiece faces the operator by the operator operating the input device, the first step is performed. It is comprised so that the information regarding the work content of the 2nd process which is this process may be output to an output device.

  Hereinafter, an example of the robot system according to the first modification will be described with reference to FIG. Note that the robot system according to the first modification has the same configuration as the robot system 100 according to the first embodiment, and thus a detailed description of the configuration is omitted.

[Operation and effects of robot system]
FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation when changing the position or posture of a workpiece in the robot system according to the first modification example in the fifth embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the operation for changing the position or posture of the workpiece 6 in the robot system 100 according to the first modification is performed when the position or posture of the workpiece 6 in the robot system 100 according to the fifth embodiment is changed. The operation is basically the same as that in step S504, except that the process shown in step S504A is executed instead of step S504.

  Specifically, in step S504A, the control device 4 causes the output device 3 to output work content information of the second process. Specifically, the operation control unit 41 of the control device 4 acquires the work content information of the second process stored in the operation sequence information 52 of the storage device 5, and uses the acquired work content information of the second process. Output to the output control unit 42. The output control unit 42 outputs the work content information of the second process input from the operation control unit 41 to the output device 3. Thereby, the output device 3 outputs the work content of the second step to the operator.

  Even the robot system 100 according to the first modification configured as described above has the same effects as the robot system 100 according to the fifth embodiment.

  In the robot system 100 according to the first modification, when the operator operates the input device 2 so that the work target location of the workpiece 6 moves to a position facing the operator, the control device 4 performs the second process. The work content is output to the output device 3. Thereby, the operator can grasp | ascertain the work content of a 2nd process easily.

  In addition, in this modification 1, although the form which makes the output apparatus 3 output the work content information of a 2nd process in step S504A was employ | adopted, it is not limited to this, A posture change is carried out with the work content information of a 2nd process. You may employ | adopt the form which makes the output device 3 output completion | finish information.

  From the foregoing description, many modifications or other embodiments of the present invention are obvious to one skilled in the art. Accordingly, the foregoing description should be construed as illustrative only and is provided for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the best mode of carrying out the invention. The details of the structure and / or function may be substantially changed without departing from the spirit of the invention.

  The robot system and the operation method thereof according to the present invention can suppress interference between adjacent robot arms, and can relax the condition of simultaneous operation when a plurality of robot arms transfer a workpiece. It is useful in the field of

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Robot arm 1A Robot arm 1B Robot arm 1C Robot arm 1D Robot arm 2 Input device 3 Output device 4 Control device 5 Storage device 6 Work 7 Sensor 8 Transport path 9 Work area 9A Work area 9B Work area 10 Temporary place 10A Temporary place 10B Temporary storage place 10C Temporary storage place 11a 1st link 11b 2nd link 11c 3rd link 11d 4th link 11e 5th link 11f 6th link 12 End effector 15 Base 15A Base 21 Work table 22 Chair 40 Receiver 41 Operation control part 42 Output Control Unit 51 Task Program 52 Operation Sequence Information 53 First Operation Amount 54 First Change Amount 55 First Operation Range 56 Position Information 57 Posture Information 100 Robot System 151 Axis Center 151A Axis Center 151B Axis Center 151C Heart 151D axis

Claims (14)

An input device that receives input from the operator;
A robot arm that performs a series of operations consisting of multiple processes;
A transport path including a plurality of work areas in which the operator performs work on the workpiece;
A storage device that stores operation sequence information that is information related to an operation sequence that defines a series of operations performed by the robot arm;
A control device,
A plurality of the robot arms are juxtaposed along the transport path so as to correspond to the plurality of work areas,
The transport path is provided with a temporary storage place for temporarily placing the workpiece between the adjacent robot arms,
When the work end information indicating that the work on the work is finished is input from the input device, the control device is configured to transport the work to the temporary storage place on the downstream side in the transport route and temporarily place the work. A robot system for operating each robot arm.   2. The robot system according to claim 1, wherein the control device operates each of the robot arms so as to transport the work temporarily placed in the temporary placement place on the upstream side in the transport path to the work area.   When the control device transports the work temporarily placed in the temporary placement place on the upstream side of the transport path to the work area, the operation target position in the work is located in the work area. The robot system according to claim 2, wherein the robot arm is operated to face a person.   In the adjacent robot arm, the temporary storage area corresponds to a ratio of an operating radius of the robot arm on the upstream side in the transfer path and an operating radius of the robot arm on the downstream side in the transfer path. The robot system according to claim 1, wherein the robot system is provided. The robot system further includes an output device,
5. The control device according to claim 1, wherein when the work end information indicating that the work on the workpiece has been completed is input from the input device, the control device causes the output device to output information that prompts the conveyance of the workpiece. The robot system according to item 1.   The robot system according to claim 5, wherein the control device operates each of the robot arms when transfer start information indicating start of transfer of the workpiece is input from the input device. The robot system further includes a sensor that detects intrusion into the work area,
The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein when the robot arm is transporting the workpiece and the sensor detects entry into the work area, the control device suppresses the operation of the robot arm. The robot system according to item 1. An input device that receives input from an operator, a robot arm that performs a series of operations including a plurality of steps, a transfer path that includes a plurality of work areas in which the operator performs work on a workpiece, and the robot arm In a driving method of a robot system, comprising: a storage device that stores operation sequence information that is information related to an operation sequence that defines a series of operations performed by:
A plurality of the robot arms are juxtaposed along the transport path so as to correspond to the plurality of work areas,
The transport path is provided with a temporary storage place for temporarily placing the workpiece between the adjacent robot arms,
When the work completion information indicating that the work on the work is finished is input from the input device, each robot arm is configured to transport and temporarily place the work to the temporary placement place on the downstream side of the transport path. A method for operating a robot system, comprising:   After (A), each robot arm further operates (B) so as to transport the work temporarily placed in the temporary placement place on the upstream side in the transport path to the work area. Item 9. The operation method of the robot system according to Item 8.   In (B), when the work is transported to the work area, the robot arm is operated so that a work target portion of the work faces the operator located in the work area (B1). The operation method of the robot system according to claim 9, further comprising:   In the adjacent robot arm, the temporary storage area corresponds to a ratio of an operating radius of the robot arm on the upstream side in the transfer path and an operating radius of the robot arm on the downstream side in the transfer path. The operation method of the robot system according to any one of claims 8 to 10, which is provided. The robot system further includes an output device,
The said (A) is provided with (A1) with which an output device outputs the information which prompts conveyance of the said workpiece | work, when the work completion information which shows that the said series of work was complete | finished from the said input device is input. The operation method of the robot system according to any one of 8 to 12.   The robot system according to claim 12, wherein (A) includes (A2) in which each of the robot arms operates when transfer start information indicating start of transfer of the workpiece is input from the input device. Driving method. The robot system further includes a sensor that detects intrusion into the work area,
The robot arm according to any one of claims 8 to 13, further comprising: (C) that suppresses the operation of the robot arm when the sensor detects entry into the work area while the robot arm is transporting the workpiece. A method for operating the robot system according to claim 1.

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