Exoskeleton-Controlled Robotic Assembly for Hazardous Remote Tasks

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a system that allows humans to perform dangerous tasks remotely, without being physically present in hazardous environments, to avoid risks associated with handling hazardous materials or working in dangerous conditions.

Innovation Solution

A robotic assembly control system comprising an exoskeleton apparatus worn by a user to control robotic assemblies and mobile platforms, where movement signals from the user are collected and mapped to control remote robotic assemblies, enabling remote operation and attachment to mobile platforms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If a human performs hazardous tasks directly, then task execution is immediate and direct, but the human is exposed to dangerous environments or materials

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehuman exposure to hazardous materialsVSAvoiddirect control of robotic device

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a robotic device as an intermediary between the human operator and the hazardous environment. The robotic device performs the hazardous tasks while the human operates it remotely or through exoskeleton assistance, thereby eliminating direct human exposure to harmful factors while maintaining operational control through sensor feedback and control systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If a robotic device is used to perform hazardous tasks, then human safety is improved, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehuman exposure to hazardous materialsVSAvoidrobotic control system

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the robotic device autonomously performs hazardous tasks based on pre-programmed instructions or real-time sensor data. The system includes autonomous navigation, obstacle avoidance, and task execution capabilities that reduce the need for complex manual control interfaces, thereby managing system complexity while maintaining human safety.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates sensor feedback systems that provide real-time information about the robotic device's environment and status to the operator. This feedback mechanism simplifies control by automatically adjusting device operations based on sensor data, reducing the complexity of manual intervention while ensuring safe operation in hazardous environments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Object-affected harmful factors

If remote control is implemented, then human safety in hazardous environments is improved, but the control precision and responsiveness may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehuman exposure to hazardous materialsVSAvoidmovement mapping accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces direct mechanical control with electronic and sensor-based control systems. Sensors detect the operator's movements and translate them into precise robotic actions through computational algorithms, maintaining control precision while enabling remote operation. This substitution of mechanical direct-control with electronic signal processing ensures accurate movement mapping despite physical separation between operator and device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS11628072B2System and apparatus for robotic device and methods of using thereof

Publication Date: 2023.04.18 DEKA PRODUCTS LP

AI summary

A robotic assembly control system is disclosed. The robotic assembly control system includes an exoskeleton apparatus adapted to be worn by a user, at least one robotic assembly, the at least one robotic assembly controlled by the user by way of the exoskeleton, and at least one mobile platform, the at least one mobile platform controlled by the user and wherein the at least one robotic assembly is attached to the at least one mobile platform.