Robot for solar cell production lines

The ABB FlexPicker — System Solar is a flexible robotic plug-and-play solution for the production of solar cells. The standardised robotic cell was specially designed for loading, unloading and handling processes in automated production lines for solar cells.

The base frame of this standard solution is a low-vibration, symmetrically designed steel structure with the dimensions 1400 l x 1400 w x 220 h cm. The system has three levels of equipping. The lower third offers enough room for the ABB IRC5 control unit without housing. This includes the panel mounted controller and other control components such as image processors, PLC components or converters for activating the conveyor system.

At the working level, the middle section, a tunnel-like construction is planned which allows for flexible adaptation to user requirements. Six plates fastened directly on the base frame make it possible to connect user-specific conveyor belts or other conveyor systems directly to the plug-and-play solution. The control panel of the IRC5 control unit is also on this level, mounted on a side beam of the structure. The control panel can be mounted on any one of the four corner beams of this level as required.

Also found on the working level is the FlexPendant and the mechanical interface for the conveyor system. Electrically monitored service doors ensure compliance with the strict safety requirements. The robot stops as soon as the door is opened. The system starts up again only after it has received confirmation via automated enquiry that all doors are properly closed. Acrylic doors on the opposite sides (operator sides) provide the operators with a large area for viewing work processes.

The heart of the plug-and-play solution — the ABB FlexPicker 360 — is found on the upper third of the structure. The robot is inverted facing downward, mounted on the top crossbar. Mounting plates for gauges, eg, for imaging and evaluation systems, electrical installations, pneumatics, etc, offer users individual equipping possibilities. A hinged flap with lock also secures access to the robot.

A number of options are planned such as an integrated break drawer, mounting plates for pneumatics and electrical installations, panel PCs and ABB PickMaster Software.