Manipulator Control Coupling Using Dynamic Optical Identification

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The use of mobile operating devices for controlling manipulator systems poses risks due to potential misalignment and misuse, as existing methods cannot reliably ensure correct coupling between the device and the manipulator, leading to unsafe operations.

Innovation Solution

A method involving an optically readable identifier displayed on an electronic display device and detected by an optical reading device ensures secure coupling by releasing control only when the identifier is correctly detected, using dynamic identifiers and wireless communication to prevent unauthorized access.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a mobile operating device is used to control a manipulator system, then the operator's freedom of movement and flexibility are improved, but the risk of misalignment and unauthorized control increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefreedom of movementVSAvoidcorrect coupling
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary identification and verification actions before allowing control. The manipulator system first identifies the mobile operating device through optical scanning or wireless communication, verifies its authenticity, and establishes a secure coupling relationship before enabling control functions. This preliminary verification prevents unauthorized devices from controlling the manipulator.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors and verifies the coupling status between the mobile operating device and the manipulator system. Through feedback mechanisms such as periodic authentication signals or status verification, the system ensures that the control connection remains valid and secure, alerting the operator if the coupling is lost or compromised.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Ease of operation

If a fixed QR code is used for device identification, then the coupling process is simplified, but the system becomes vulnerable to misuse and unauthorized access

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling processVSAvoidunauthorized access
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The identification code transitions from a static QR code to a dynamic, time-varying identifier. The system generates and displays changing identification codes that expire after a certain period or after successful verification. This dynamic approach maintains ease of coupling through visual display while preventing misuse, as captured images or printed copies of the code become invalid over time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The identification code's parameters such as its value, validity period, or verification requirements are dynamically changed. The system can generate different identification codes for different sessions, manipulate their expiration times, or change verification conditions based on the operational context, thereby maintaining security while preserving user convenience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This method ensures secure and accurate coupling of mobile operating devices with manipulator systems, reducing the risk of misalignment and misuse by verifying the device's proximity and authenticity, thereby enhancing operational safety.

Implementation Method 1

an electronic display device (270) set up to display an optically readable identifier (112) and at least one optical reading device (150) set up to detect the displayed optically readable identifier (112)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical detection: Light

Data Source

PatentEP3383598B1Manipulator system and method for identifying operating devices
Publication Date: 2022.08.31 KUKA DEUT GMBH
  • EP3383598B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP3383598B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3383598B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a manipulator system (1; 2) comprising at least one manipulator (160; 260), a controller (140, 240) paired with the manipulator (160; 260), and at least one mobile operating device (110, 210) for controlling the at least one manipulator (160; 260). Furthermore, an electronic display device (111; 270) is provided which is designed to display at least one optically readable identifier (112; 272), and at least one optical reading device (150; 250) is provided which is designed to detect the displayed optically readable identifier (112; 272). The manipulator system is designed to release the control of the manipulator (160; 260) by means of the mobile operating device (110; 210) if the optically readable identifier (112; 272) has been correctly detected by the optical reading device (150; 250).