Human-Robot Collaboration System with Force-Sensing Hand Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional industrial robot systems are not well-suited for collaboration with humans due to their heavy weight, high speeds, and forces, which pose a risk of injury, and existing human-robot collaboration systems lack intuitive and ergonomic control methods for efficient joint human-robot interaction.
Innovation Solution
A human-robot collaboration system featuring a motor-driven robot arm with integrated sensors for force and torque control, coupled with a hand connection device such as an operating glove that allows operators to control the robot arm through natural hand movements, enabling intuitive and ergonomic control while supporting the operator in handling and transporting objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If conventional industrial robots are used for collaboration with humans, then high speeds and forces can be achieved, but safety risk increases due to potential injury to humans
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional high-power mechanical robot systems with a lightweight robot arm that operates at reduced speeds and forces. The control system substitutes mechanical power with electronic control and human guidance, allowing the robot to move at speeds and forces safe for human interaction while maintaining collaborative functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes key operational parameters including reducing robot arm speed, limiting force output, and adjusting torque control to levels safe for human interaction. These parameter modifications enable the robot to operate in close proximity to humans without posing injury risks while still performing useful collaborative tasks.
2Extent of automation
If preprogrammed movement paths are used for robot arms, then automation level increases, but ease of operation decreases due to lack of intuitive control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements force sensors and torque sensors that provide real-time feedback about human operator input to the robot control system. This feedback loop allows the robot to respond naturally to human guidance while maintaining automated execution of predefined tasks, combining the benefits of both automation and intuitive human control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the robot arm to dynamically switch between following preprogrammed movement paths and responding to real-time human guidance. The system can adapt its control mode based on task requirements, allowing operators to provide intuitive directional guidance while the robot maintains automated precision for complex motion sequences.
3Device complexity
If cable winches are used to control articulated arms, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation decreases due to non-intuitive control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical cable winch control systems with direct force and torque sensing at the robot arm. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical transmission mechanisms and provides more intuitive control, where the robot responds directly to forces applied by the human operator rather than requiring the operator to understand cable tension and winch mechanics.
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
The system allows for safe and efficient human-robot collaboration by enabling the robot to detect and respond to operator forces, allowing for intuitive control and reducing the physical burden on the operator during object handling and transport, enhancing safety and ergonomic interaction.
Implementation Method 1
In order to detect a force and/or torque acting on the at least one robot arm, this robot arm has a correspondingly designed, integrated sensor device
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a human-robot collaboration system (10) comprising a robot (16) with at least one manipulator (18), wherein the at least one manipulator (18) has a particularly terminal end section (26), wherein the HRC system comprises a coupling device (32) connected to the end section of the at least one manipulator and at least one hand attachment (28), wherein the at least one hand attachment can be force-coupled to the end section via the coupling device.