Shared Human-Robot Tool Interface for Safe Vehicle Servicing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies lack the ability to efficiently involve robots in the servicing of heavy-duty vehicles, requiring separate tools for human and robotic use, which increases costs and reduces flexibility and safety in environments where both are present.
Innovation Solution
A device that is interchangeably usable by both humans and robots, equipped with a base unit including a robot connector, a communications unit, a processor, energy storage, and sensors to detect user type, allowing for versatile and safe operation by controlling tools wirelessly and adapting to different user capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate tools are provided for human and robotic use, then each tool can be optimized for its specific user, but the cost increases and flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is designed with a universal interface that allows it to be used by both humans and robots. The base unit includes a robot connector for robotic attachment while also providing human-grippable surfaces and grips, enabling the same tool to serve multiple users without requiring separate specialized tools for each user type
2Adaptability or versatility
If a tool is designed to be used by both humans and robots, then cost is reduced and flexibility is improved, but safety concerns arise in environments where both are present
Solution Approach 1:
The tool incorporates detection means that automatically detect whether a human or robot is using the tool and provide feedback to the control station. The control station receives this information and adjusts its control actions accordingly, preventing harmful actions such as initiating robotic movement when a human is gripping the tool, thus maintaining safety while enabling versatile use
3Productivity
If automation level is increased by using robots, then productivity is improved, but the need for interchangeable tools adds complexity to the device
Solution Approach 1:
The tool employs a universal design with a base unit that can be attached to either a robot or held by a human. The robot connector and human grip elements are integrated into the same base unit structure, allowing one tool design to serve both automated and manual operations, thereby increasing productivity without requiring entirely separate tool systems
4Reliability
If detection means are added to identify user type, then safety is improved and automation control is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection means are integrated into the base unit and work in conjunction with the control station to provide automatic feedback about user type. This feedback mechanism enables the control station to adapt its control actions based on whether a human or robot is using the tool, improving safety and control accuracy while keeping the added complexity manageable through systematic integration
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (10) interchangeably usable by a robot (12) and a human (14). The present invention also relates to a system (100) comprising such a device, a method of operating such a device (10), and a computer readable medium (46). The invention can for example be applied in servicing of heavy-duty vehicles.