Solar cell production robot

ABB has announced a standard compact solution for solar cell manufacturing plants — the FlexPicker-System Solar. 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 solution is a low-vibration, symmetrically designed steel structure with the dimensions 1400 (l) x 1400 (w) x 220 (h). 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 allows for flexible adaptation to customer requirements. Six plates fastened directly on the base frame make it possible to connect customer-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.

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

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 cameras, electrical installations, pneumatics, etc, offer customers individual equipping possibilities. A hinged flap with lock also secures access to the robot.