Emissive Pattern Position Encoder for CNC and Robotics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining positional information in machines, such as CNC machines and robotic systems, face challenges including poor resolution, high costs, and errors due to mechanical inaccuracies and operator dependence, particularly in non-juxtaposed and flexible systems like cranes and 3D printing.
Innovation Solution
The use of emissive patterns displayed on a display, observed by an observation device, allows for the determination of positional information through light emitted from the display, enabling higher resolution and cost-effective position measurement, even in complex systems with multiple degrees of freedom.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If linear encoders are used to determine position, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical encoder systems (linear encoders, rotary encoders) with an optical measurement system. A display shows emissive patterns that are observed by an observation device (camera), and positional information is determined from the observed light patterns. This substitutes mechanical contact-based measurement with non-contact optical measurement, eliminating mechanical wear and simplifying the system while maintaining or improving precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces light as an intermediary carrier of positional information. Instead of directly measuring position through mechanical contact, the system uses emissive patterns displayed on a screen and captured by an observation device as an intermediary to encode and transmit position data. This intermediary approach allows for non-contact measurement and simplifies the overall system architecture.
2Device complexity
If rotary encoders are used on motors to determine position, then cost is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to mechanical errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates mechanical rotary encoders entirely by replacing them with an optical system. Position information is encoded through emissive patterns on a display and read optically, removing the mechanical link between motor rotation and position measurement. This substitution eliminates backlash, thread-to-thread variations, and other mechanical errors that degrade encoder precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses light patterns as an intermediary to convey position information independently of the mechanical drive system. The emissive patterns serve as a mediator that translates positional data into optical signals, which can be captured and processed without being affected by mechanical errors in the drive mechanism.
3Device complexity
If conventional position encoders are used in robotic arms, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to unmeasurable errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical encoders on robotic arm joints with an optical measurement system. Instead of using rotary encoders that cannot detect orthogonal play or arm section deflection, the system uses displayed emissive patterns observed by a camera to determine end effector position. This optical approach can capture the actual visual position regardless of mechanical errors in the arm structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical observation as an intermediary to measure end effector position directly, bypassing the mechanical transmission chain. The emissive patterns serve as a visual intermediary that directly represents position information, allowing measurement of the actual end effector location without being compromised by joint play, deflection, or other mechanical inaccuracies.
4Adaptability or versatility
If wire rope encoders are used in flexible systems, then adaptability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to elastic deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical encoders on flexible wire rope systems with an optical measurement system. Instead of using encoders that measure rotation of sheaves connected by elastic wire rope, the system uses displayed emissive patterns and optical observation to determine position. This eliminates the problem of elastic deformation and oscillation in the wire rope, as the optical measurement directly captures the actual position without being affected by the flexibility of the connecting medium.
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 approach provides superior positional resolution and automation, reducing errors and operational costs, and is applicable to various machines like autonomously piloted vehicles, multi-axis robotic arms, and CNC tools.
Implementation Method 1
The display circuitry is operative to cause one or more emissive patterns to be displayed on the display
Implementation Method 2
the observation device is capable of observing light emitted from a region of the display
Data Source
AI summary
Absolute, non-juxtaposed position encoders (i.e., position-determining systems) for up to six degrees-of-freedom are described. Each of these apparatus includes a display, an observation device, display circuitry, and logic circuitry. The display includes a plurality of pixels. In addition, the observation device is capable of observing light emitted from a region of the display. The display circuitry is able to cause one or more emissive patterns to be displayed on the display. The logic circuitry is able to determine a position of the observation device relative to the display at least in part from the light observed by the observation device. The observation device is capable of being moved in relation to the display, or vice versa. Aspects of the invention are suitable for use in a diverse set of applications such as: autonomously-piloted vehicles, multi-axis robotic arms, three-dimensional (3D) printers, computer-numerical-control (CNC) machine tools, and cranes.