Cobot End-Effector Laser Alignment for Operational Separation Setup
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of collaborative robotic systems (cobots) into existing workflows is complex, requiring careful planning and expertise to ensure compatibility with existing machinery, software, and processes. The setup and calibration of cobots for specific tasks are time-consuming and tedious.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a mounting body with adjustable laser devices to align the robotic arm and end effector with a workpiece, allowing for precise calibration of the operational separation distance. The laser system emits intersecting beams that converge at a confluence point, which is calibrated to align with the working tip of the end effector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional manual setup and calibration methods are used for collaborative robotic systems, then the system can be integrated into existing workflows, but the setup and calibration process becomes time-consuming and tedious
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment methods with an optical laser-based measurement system. The laser devices emit beams that create visual references for alignment, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual measurement and adjustment procedures. The system automatically determines operational separation by projecting laser beams and detecting their confluence point, substituting mechanical calibration with optical detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces laser beams as an intermediary medium between the robotic system and the measurement process. The laser beams serve as a visual mediator that bridges the gap between the robotic components and the operator, providing clear reference points for alignment without requiring direct physical measurement or complex instrumentation.
2Manufacturing precision
If precise calibration of operational separation is required for collaborative robotic systems, then alignment accuracy improves, but the calibration process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical alignment tools and procedures with a simple optical laser system. Instead of using precision mechanical fixtures, gauges, or specialized alignment equipment, the system uses laser beams that can be easily projected and visually detected, significantly simplifying the calibration apparatus while maintaining high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from physical distance measurement to optical beam confluence detection. By transforming the calibration task from measuring physical separations with tools to detecting where laser beams converge visually, the system achieves high precision through a fundamentally different and simpler measurement approach.
3Ease of operation
If manual alignment procedures are used for robotic end effectors, then the system remains simple, but significant human time and expertise are required for proper setup
Solution Approach 1:
The laser beams act as an intermediary that translates complex spatial relationships into simple visual references. Operators can easily follow the laser projections to achieve proper alignment without requiring deep expertise in robotic calibration procedures. The laser mediator makes the alignment process intuitive and accessible to operators with varying skill levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes manual measurement and judgment-based alignment with an automated optical guidance system. The laser devices provide objective visual references that eliminate the need for operators to manually measure distances or estimate proper positioning, making the process easier and more consistent regardless of operator experience.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution significantly reduces the time and effort required for setting up and calibrating cobots, enabling more efficient and precise alignment of robotic systems with workpieces, thereby enhancing productivity and safety in industrial automation.
Implementation Method 1
a first laser device disposed within the first opening of the mounting body and configured to emit a first beam; and a second laser device disposed within the second opening of the mounting body and configured to emit a second beam
Data Source
AI summary
A system may include a mounting body defining a plurality of openings extending therethrough, including a first opening and a second opening, the mounting body being couplable to a robotic arm. The system includes an end effector coupled to the robotic arm and comprising a working tip configured to interact with a workpiece. The system may include a laser system including a first laser device disposed within the first opening of the mounting body and a second laser device disposed within the second opening of the mounting body, each configured to emit a beam. The first laser device and the second laser device are each disposed at an adjustable angle with respect to each other wherein the first beam and the second beam cross each other at a confluence point, wherein the confluence point is calibrated to align with the working tip of the end effector.