Absolute Coordinate Control for Multi-Workstation Object Handling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing indoor localization systems face challenges in accurately determining the absolute positions of objects and workstations in industrial sites, leading to mismatches between site maps and physical layouts. This mismatch can result in incorrect control commands, false alarms, and production downtime.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for controlling object handling in an industrial site using an absolute coordinate system. This involves determining a site plan with predefined workstation positions, calculating the trajectory of moving objects in the absolute coordinate system, and deducing the absolute positions of workstations. These positions are then used to control the handling of further objects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If indoor localization systems use anchor devices with known positions to calculate tag device positions in an absolute site coordinate system, then position measurement precision is improved, but mismatch between site maps and physical equipment layouts occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition measurement precisionVSAvoidreliability of control commands
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the coordinate system into two separate systems: an absolute site coordinate system for localization and a local equipment coordinate system for control operations. This segmentation allows each system to operate independently with its own reference frame, eliminating mismatches between site maps and physical layouts while maintaining high position measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a coordinate transformation module as an intermediary that converts absolute positions into local equipment coordinates. This mediator translates the high-precision absolute position data into the appropriate local coordinate system for control commands, ensuring both measurement precision and control reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Manufacturing precision

If production line elements are placed according to site plans with high precision, then manufacturing precision is improved, but flexibility in reorganizing production lines is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveplacement precision of production line elementsVSAvoidflexibility in reorganizing production lines
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic coordinate transformation system that automatically adapts when production lines are reorganized. The system dynamically updates the transformation parameters between absolute and local coordinate systems, allowing flexible reorganization of production elements while maintaining precise positioning and control throughout the reconfiguration process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal coordinate transformation framework that works across different production line configurations and reorganizations. This multi-functional system handles various scenarios including initial setup, reorganization, and scaling, providing both precision and adaptability through a single unified approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If coordinate transformation between absolute and local systems is implemented, then control accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service coordinate transformation system where the system automatically determines transformation parameters and performs conversions without manual intervention. The system self-calibrates by detecting equipment positions and automatically updating transformation matrices, reducing operational complexity while maintaining high control accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors position data and control outcomes, automatically adjusting transformation parameters to optimize accuracy. This closed-loop feedback reduces the need for complex manual calibration procedures while maintaining high control precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12306620B2Object handling in an absolute coordinate system
Publication Date: 2025.05.20 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US12306620B2 patent drawing
  • US12306620B2 patent drawing
  • US12306620B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for controlling a handling of a further object (90) which is handled at a site (10) by at least two different workstations (51, 52) and which is moved between the at least two different workstations, —determining a site plan of the site (10), the site plan indicating the at least two workstations at predefined positions in the site plan, —determining a trajectory of a first object (90) moving in the site (10) in an absolute coordinate system of the site, —deducing absolute positions of the at least two workstations (51, 52) in the absolute coordinate system from the determined trajectory of the first object, —using the absolute positions of the at least two workstations (51, 52) for controlling the handling of the at least one further object handled by the at least two workstations.