Networked Teaching Panel for Multi-Robot Safety and Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current robot systems require multiple teaching control panels for multiple robots, leading to increased costs and safety risks due to the need for frequent attachment and detachment of panels and potential unexpected robot movements during teaching operations.
Innovation Solution
A robot system with a network-connected teaching control panel, enable device, and mode changing device that allows for automatic or teaching modes, ensuring safe operation by controlling drive power to multiple robots through a single panel, with emergency stop functionality to prevent accidents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple teaching control panels are prepared for multiple robots, then each robot can be taught independently, but the cost of the robot system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The teaching control panel is designed to function as a universal device that can control multiple robot control devices through network connection. The panel maintains its full teaching functionality while being able to switch between different robots, eliminating the need for dedicated panels for each robot and reducing the total quantity of panels required
Solution Approach 2:
A network communication system acts as an intermediary between the single teaching control panel and multiple robot control devices. This intermediary enables the panel to communicate with and control multiple robots sequentially or selectively, allowing one panel to serve multiple purposes without direct physical connection to each robot
2Quantity of substance
If a single teaching control panel is used to teach several robots, then costs are reduced, but it is necessary to attach and detach the teaching control panel repeatedly making the teaching operation extremely troublesome
Solution Approach 1:
The network communication system serves as a mediator that eliminates the need for physical attachment and detachment. Through the network, the single teaching control panel can electronically connect to and control multiple robot control devices in sequence, maintaining operational convenience while using fewer panels
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical attachment and detachment process is replaced by electronic network communication. Instead of physically connecting the panel to each robot control device, the system uses digital signals transmitted through the network to establish and switch connections, greatly simplifying the operation
3Quantity of substance
If a single teaching control panel is connected to two robot control devices through a network, then costs are reduced, but the robot could suddenly start moving and the safety of the operator cannot be secured
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the teaching control panel continuously monitors the operational state of connected robots through the network. The panel receives real-time status information and can detect abnormal movements or states, allowing the operator to respond immediately to potential safety issues
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements preliminary safety measures by establishing controlled power supply mechanisms that prevent unexpected robot movements. The teaching control panel maintains authority over robot power states and can preemptively cut power or prevent movement commands during teaching operations, addressing safety concerns before they manifest
Data Source
AI summary
A robot system including robot control devices, a network, and a mode changing device which switches between an automatic operation mode and teaching mode. In the state where the mode changing device selects the automatic operation mode, drive power is supplied to all of the robots regardless of the state of the enable device. In the state where the mode changing device selects the teaching mode, when the enable device does not permit operation of at least two robots, the drive power of all of the robots is cut.