Mobile Fixture Control via Force Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mobile fixture systems are inefficient and inconvenient to program and control, often being application-specific and reliant on networked communications, making them difficult to repurpose for different workflows or products.
Innovation Solution
A mobile fixture system comprising movable bases, articulable support platforms, adaptable interfaces, sensors, and controllers that allow independent robots to coordinate movement and positioning of large parts or assemblies without traditional networking, using force and movement feedback for autonomous control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional mobile fixtures are networked and communicatively coupled to control signals, then coordination and control capability is improved, but system complexity and programming difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment member serves as a physical intermediary that mechanically couples multiple mobile fixtures together. Force sensors embedded in the attachment member detect interactions between fixtures and translate them into control signals, eliminating the need for complex networked communication while maintaining coordination capability
Solution Approach 2:
Each mobile fixture autonomously responds to force feedback detected by sensors in the attachment member. The fixtures self-coordinate through physical interaction forces without requiring external network control signals, reducing system complexity while maintaining operational coordination
2Manufacturing precision
If mobile fixtures are application-specific with fixed control programs, then control precision for specific tasks is improved, but adaptability to different workflows or products deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static, pre-programmed control to dynamic, force-feedback-driven control. The attachment member's force sensors continuously detect interaction forces and automatically adjust fixture positions and movements in real-time, enabling the same system to adapt to different workflows and products while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The control parameters of mobile fixtures are dynamically changed based on force feedback from the attachment member. Instead of fixed programs, the system adjusts movement forces, positions, and timing in real-time based on detected interactions, enabling versatility across different applications while maintaining control precision
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
Enables efficient and flexible control of mobile fixtures for positioning and transporting large parts or assemblies, allowing for re-purposing in various manufacturing processes without the need for complex networked communications, improving operational efficiency and adaptability.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one sensor is coupled to the adaptor interface, and is configured to detect at least one of a force or movement resulting from an interaction between the adaptor interface and the attachment member
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile fixture includes a movable base, a support platform, an adaptor interface, at least one sensor, and a controller. The movable base is configured to travel over a floor. The support platform is articulable with respect to the base. The adaptor interface moves with the support platform, and is configured to mechanically interface with an attachment member. The at least one sensor is coupled to the adaptor interface and is configured to detect at least one of a force or movement resulting from an interaction between the adaptor interface and the attachment member. The controller is operably coupled to the movable base, support platform, and at least one sensor, and is configured to control movement of at least one of the movable base or support platform responsive to the at least one of the force or movement detected by the at least one sensor.