Modular Robot Position Detection for Cross-Module Collision Avoidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular robots face challenges in ensuring failsafe position detection of elements at risk of collision due to lack of standardization and reliable position detection across modules from different manufacturers, leading to potential operational safety issues.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a dual-channel position detection system with attachable position probes configured as transponders, combining multiple position detection means to form a combined failsafe position detection system, and using a superordinate control unit to integrate and verify position data from different sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modular robots use modules from different manufacturers, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but reliability of position detection deteriorates due to lack of standardization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal dual-channel position detection system that can be applied across different module types and manufacturers. The system uses standardized sensor interfaces and evaluation procedures that work universally across the modular robot system, allowing modules from different manufacturers to be integrated while maintaining failsafe position detection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameters by implementing diverse detection methods (e.g., combining optical sensors with other sensing technologies) and evaluating positions in multiple coordinate systems. This parameter diversification ensures that position detection remains reliable across different module configurations and manufacturers.
2Reliability
If dual-channel diverse position detection is implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the position detection system into independent dual-channel subsystems for each module. Each module has its own failsafe position detection that operates independently, then integrates with the overall system. This segmentation manages complexity by localizing detection functions while maintaining system-wide reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary evaluation units that process sensor data and coordinate information between different detection channels and modules. These intermediaries standardize the integration of diverse detection methods, managing system complexity while enabling reliable failsafe operation through coordinated evaluation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating a modular robot including a first module and a second module is provided. The first module includes a first controller, and the first controller includes a first failsafe position detection for a movable element of the first module. The method includes controlling the second module, which includes detecting a first position of movable elements via a first single position detector. A second position of the movable elements is detected via a second position detector, which is configured as a position probe that is attachable to the at least one movable element of the second module. The second position is combined with the first position to form a second failsafe position detection. The first failsafe position detection is combined with the second failsafe position detection to form a combined failsafe position detection for the modular robot.