Cooling and Trimming Laminated PV Panels

challenge

Robotic integration was used to automate the process of cooling and trimming warm laminated photovoltaic (PV) panels. The system had to be able to accommodate panels with varying length and width.

solution

Two robot cells serviced panels from a single laminate curing oven.

The robot end-effector featured two different work surfaces. The top side of the forked gripper had a rubberized surface. Because the laminate panel was still warm, it could warp. The top side surface was used to cradle the panel for transfer to the cooling rack. The bottom side featured vacuum cups to securely maneuver cooled panels in front of the vertically oriented trim head.

The trim head system featured automatic blade exchange, sourced from a magazine. The magazine was in the robot cell to accommodate refills without stopping cell operation. Sensors were utilized to identify the position of the edges of the laminate. During trimming operations, the robot moved the panel against the stationary blade.

Download

outcomes and benefits

Automatic accommodation of different panel sizes, Dual purpose end-effector, Custom designed trim head with automatic blade exchange, Shared excess materials shredder, Cycle rate of 75 parts per hour between the two robot cells

Two Robot Cells Work Together to Cool and Trim PV Panels

Industry

Battery & Energy

Technical Capabilities

Assembly Solutions Material Handling Solutions Robotics Integration

Region

ABOUT JR AUTOMATION

JR Automation provides intelligent automated manufacturing and distribution technology solutions. We transform how the world's leading manufacturers make and distribute products.

Learn More About Us

View More Case Studies

Request more information about the technical capabilities mentioned in this case study. We’ll also connect you with one of our sales engineers to discuss how we can use our industry expertise to create a custom automation solution for your company.