Manipulator Coupling via Dynamic Optical Identifier Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile operating devices used to control manipulator systems face challenges in ensuring correct coupling and preventing misuse, as existing QR code-based systems do not reliably verify the device's proximity to the manipulator, leading to potential operating errors and safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A manipulator system that employs an optically readable identifier displayed on an electronic display device, detectable by an optical reading device, to ensure correct coupling and control release, using dynamic identifiers and wireless communication to prevent misuse, with a graphical user interface allowing intuitive control and visual feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed QR code is used for coupling the mobile operating device to the manipulator system, then the coupling process is simplified and can be performed from any position, but the system becomes vulnerable to misuse and cannot reliably verify the device's actual proximity to the manipulator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transforming the static, fixed QR code into a dynamic identifier that changes over time. The optically readable identifier is generated anew for each coupling attempt and includes time-dependent elements, ensuring that a photographed or printed code becomes invalid after a short period. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining ease of coupling through optical reading while ensuring reliability through temporal validation that prevents misuse.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by having the manipulator system verify the detected optically readable identifier against currently valid identifiers stored in its memory. The system provides feedback by confirming successful coupling only when the identifier matches an active session, and by rejecting identifiers that have expired or do not correspond to any active coupling request. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable proximity verification while maintaining simple coupling operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the mobile operating device can be used from any position freely, then user mobility and operational flexibility are improved, but the risk of unintended control of the wrong manipulator increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary verification mechanism between the mobile operating device and the manipulator system. The optically readable identifier acts as a mediator that must be presented and verified for coupling to occur. This intermediary ensures that even though the user can move freely and operate from any position, the coupling is securely established through optical verification, preventing unintended control of the wrong manipulator while maintaining user mobility.
3Extent of automation
If existing QR code recognition systems are used to identify the manipulator system, then the coupling process is automated, but the system cannot prevent misuse such as photographing or printing the code to release coupling without being in proximity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by making the optically readable identifier dynamic and time-dependent. Each identifier is generated for a specific session and expires after a predetermined time or after successful coupling. This dynamic approach maintains automation of the coupling process through optical recognition while eliminating misuse potential, as photographed or printed identifiers become invalid after the session expires or are not recognized by the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the temporal characteristics of the identifier. The optically readable identifier includes time-based parameters that cause it to expire or change after a predetermined duration. This parameter change ensures that automated coupling remains efficient while preventing misuse, as the system can detect that the identifier is no longer valid within its temporal parameter framework.
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
Ensures safe and accurate operation by verifying the mobile device's proximity to the manipulator and preventing unauthorized access, reducing the risk of operating errors and enhancing user safety.
Implementation Method 1
an optical reading device (150), which is arranged to detect the displayed optically readable identifier
Data Source
AI summary
A manipulator system includes at least one manipulator and a control device assigned to the manipulator; and at least one mobile operating device for controlling the at least one manipulator. In addition, an electronic display device is provided, which is arranged to display at least one optically readable identifier, and at least one optical reading device is provided and arranged to detect the displayed optically readable identifier. The manipulator system is arranged to release control of the manipulator by means of the mobile operating device when the optically readable identifier has been correctly detected by the optical reading device.