Manipulator Input Device with Multi-Axis Finger Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current input devices for manipulators require two-handed operation to input both control and program commands, which is cumbersome, especially when handling tools or workpieces, as they separate control and program command inputs, necessitating the use of a joystick for control commands and a separate keyboard for program commands.
Innovation Solution
A combined input device featuring a manual control lever, such as a 2D, 3D, or 6D joystick, and a multi-axis finger input device that allows for the simultaneous entry of control and program commands using gestures, with an interpreter assigning program commands to multi-axis movements, enabling one-handed operation by distinguishing between control and program command modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If control and program commands are input using separate devices (joystick for control, keyboard for program), then control precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the joystick and keyboard into a single integrated input device. The joystick serves dual purposes: it controls manipulator movement and, through its buttons and switches, inputs program commands. This merging eliminates the need for separate control and programming devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining precise control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The joystick is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a control device for manipulator movement and as a programming device for inputting program commands. The inclusion of buttons, switches, and other input elements on the joystick allows it to perform multiple functions that previously required separate devices, thereby simplifying the overall input system.
2Measurement precision
If control and program commands are input using separate devices, then control precision is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the control and programming functions into a single joystick device, the operator can perform both control and programming tasks without switching between devices. This integration significantly improves ease of operation, especially when the operator needs to handle tools or workpieces with one hand while inputting commands with the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-functional joystick allows the operator to input both control commands for manipulator movement and program commands for process actions using a single device. This universality eliminates the need for two-handed operation across separate devices, making the system much easier to operate in practical scenarios where the operator may be occupied with handling tools or workpieces.
3Device complexity
If a single-axis switch is provided on the joystick head, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The joystick is equipped with multiple input elements including buttons, switches, and other controls on its head, enabling it to handle a wide variety of programming tasks. This multi-functional design provides the adaptability needed for different programming scenarios without significantly increasing device complexity, as all these elements are integrated into the single joystick structure.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The input device (1) has multi-axial manual controlling lever (3) for inputting control instructions, where the controlling lever moves against a base (2). A finger input device (4) is arranged at the manual controlling lever for inputting program instructions. An interpreter is provided to assign multi-axial movement of the finger input device to a program instruction. An independent claim is also included for a method for combining combined input of controlling and programming instructions for a manipulator, particularly a robot.