Robot Gripper Hold Position Mapping Without Extensive Training Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing learning devices require a large amount of teacher data to accurately determine the holding position of an object in line with human intention, increasing workload and cost.

Innovation Solution

A holding position determination device and method that uses a control unit to acquire an end effector model and a rule map based on images of the object, determining the holding position by projecting the end effector model onto various maps to evaluate appropriateness and calculate a coincidence degree, thereby simplifying the determination process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a learning device is used to determine holding position, then accuracy in determining holding position in line with human intention is improved, but the amount of teacher data required increases, leading to increased workload and cost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveholding position determination accuracyVSAvoidamount of teacher data
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a rule map that copies human decision-making logic for holding position determination. Instead of requiring extensive teacher data to train a learning device, the system creates a rule map that represents human intention and reasoning processes, allowing the robot to determine holding positions by referencing this mapped knowledge rather than learning from large datasets

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The rule map serves as an intermediary between human intention and robot execution. Rather than directly training a learning device with numerous examples, the patent introduces a rule map that translates human reasoning into a structured format that the robot can follow, eliminating the need for extensive teacher data while maintaining accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If a learning device requires extensive teacher data, then holding position determination accuracy is improved, but workload and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveholding position determination accuracyVSAvoidworkload and cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system copies human reasoning processes into a rule map structure, allowing the robot to determine holding positions by following predefined rules that represent human intention. This approach maintains high accuracy while significantly reducing the complexity associated with collecting and processing extensive teacher data

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Measurement precision

If traditional learning methods are used, then holding position accuracy is improved, but adaptability to environmental changes decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveholding position accuracyVSAvoidadaptability to environmental changes
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The rule map is designed to be dynamically adjustable to environmental changes. When the environment changes (e.g., different objects, lighting conditions, or positions), the rule map can be updated with new rules or modified existing ones, allowing the system to adapt without retraining from scratch while maintaining determination accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20240269845A1Hold position determination device and hold position determination method
Publication Date: 2024.08.15 KYOCERA CORP
  • US20240269845A1 patent drawing
  • US20240269845A1 patent drawing
  • US20240269845A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A holding position determination device includes a control unit that determines the position where an end effector adapted to hold a holding target contacts the holding target as a holding position. The control unit acquires an end effector model that identifies an area where a holding portion of the end effector can exist. The control unit acquires a rule map that includes a map defining the position of the holding target to be held by the end effector based on an image of holding target obtained by photographing the holding target. The control unit determines the holding position based on the end effector model and the rule map.