Modular Robot Arm Self-Configuration for Faster Reconfiguration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular robots require extensive reconfiguration after each conversion, making the process time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A method for operating a modular robot that involves receiving allocation information from each arm module, determining arm module base data, and creating a configuration to control the robot arm, utilizing a field bus for data exchange and a controller to manage the configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modular robots are converted to different configurations, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but the reconfiguration process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The modular robot system performs self-identification and self-configuring through automatic data exchange between modules via the field bus. Each module transmits its identification data to the control unit, which automatically generates the configuration data without requiring external intervention or manual programming, thus eliminating time-consuming reconfiguration processes while maintaining high adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
Configuration data is pre-stored in the control unit for different modular arrangements. When modules are connected, the control unit automatically retrieves and applies the appropriate pre-prepared configuration data, enabling instant reconfiguration without manual setup or programming time
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular robots are converted to different configurations, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual configuration processes with an automated electronic system. The field bus enables automatic data exchange between modules and the control unit, which programmatically generates and applies configuration data. This substitution of manual mechanical/configuration operations with automated electronic control simplifies the overall system complexity despite enabling diverse configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit automatically creates configuration data as a digital copy based on the physical arrangement of modules. This copying process eliminates the need for complex manual configuration procedures, as the system automatically generates the necessary control parameters from the module identification data and their spatial relationships
3Productivity
If automated configuration methods are implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it manages field bus communication, receives module identification data, automatically generates configuration data, and controls robot operation. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems into a single integrated unit, improving productivity without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the configuration management and robot control functions into a single integrated process. The field bus serves both as a communication medium for module identification and as a control interface, merging multiple functions into unified system components that improve productivity while maintaining manageable complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A method is related for operating a modular robot. The modular robot comprises a robot base, at least a robot arm arranged on the robot base and a controller. The robot arm comprises a plurality of modularly arrangeable arm modules. The controller carries out steps described herein. Allocation information is received from each of the arm modules in an allocation determining step. In an arm module base data determining step, arm module base data is determined for each arm module based on the allocation information. Further, a configuration of the modular robot is created from the association information and the arm module base data of each arm module in a configurating step, where the configuration is used to control the robot arm.