Aerial Boom Robot Control for Hazard-Aware Autonomous Tasks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Human control of aerial robotic systems is hazardous due to difficulties in visualizing the aerial work environment, leading to potential strikes on electrical transmission components or inefficient task performance.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous or semi-autonomous robot system equipped with a processor, manipulator, camera, sensor, and computer-readable media, capable of obtaining environmental information, monitoring its own state, and performing tasks based on object location and sensor data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If human operators control aerial robotic systems, then task flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but safety hazards increase due to difficulty in visualizing the aerial work environment
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a digital copy of the aerial work environment through multiple cameras and sensors that capture visual and environmental data. This digital representation is processed to generate augmented reality overlays and automated navigation paths, allowing operators to safely control the aerial robot without directly viewing the hazardous environment, thus resolving the contradiction between safety and operational capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary layer between the human operator and the aerial work environment. This intermediary consists of computer vision algorithms, obstacle detection systems, and automated safety protocols that filter and process environmental information, protecting operators from direct exposure to hazards while maintaining task control flexibility
2Productivity
If autonomous control is implemented, then safety and efficiency are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous control system is segmented into modular functional components: obstacle detection module, path planning module, manipulator control module, and sensor fusion module. Each module performs a specific function and can be independently developed and tested, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high productivity through coordinated operation of these specialized subsystems
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs multi-functional sensors and processors that perform multiple tasks simultaneously. For example, cameras serve both for navigation and for monitoring work quality, while processors handle both real-time control and post-mission analysis. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, managing system complexity while enhancing productivity
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for performing a task in an operation environment of an aerial device with an autonomous or semi-autonomous robot are described. In some embodiments, a robot is disposed at an end of a boom of an aerial device. The robot may comprise cameras, actuators, sensors, processors, and manipulators that work together to perform tasks fully autonomously or semi-autonomously. Furthermore, the robot may comprise tools for performing the tasks and computer-executable instructions for performing the tasks may be based on the various sensory inputs, the tools, and the tasks to be performed.