Neural Network Robotic Arm Trajectories for Collision-Free Motion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional trajectory optimization methods for robotic systems, such as those using handcrafted waypoints, are suboptimal as they lead to slow and jerky movements, instability, and increased chances of collisions or loss of grip, failing to adapt to variable scenarios and efficiently minimize time and kinematic constraints.

Innovation Solution

The use of neural networks to predict optimized robotic arm trajectories that satisfy constraints like collision avoidance, smooth motion, and velocity limits, allowing for real-time adaptation and efficient path planning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If traditional handcrafted waypoint methods are used for trajectory optimization, then the system is simple to implement, but the robotic movements become slow and jerky, leading to instability and increased collision risk

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverobotic movement speedVSAvoidmovement stability
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical trajectory optimization methods (handcrafted waypoints, polynomial fitting) with a neural network-based system. The neural network learns optimal trajectories from demonstration data, substituting the mechanical approach with a learning-based approach that produces smoother, faster, and more reliable robotic movements while satisfying kinematic constraints

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter representation from fixed handcrafted waypoints to continuous trajectory functions parameterized by neural network outputs. The neural network learns optimal parameters for trajectory shape, timing, and control inputs, enabling smooth acceleration and deceleration profiles that improve both speed and stability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional trajectory optimization methods are used, then the implementation is straightforward, but the system cannot adapt to variable scenarios and frequently requires human intervention

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptation to variable scenariosVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary learning by training the neural network on demonstration trajectories before actual operation. The network learns from offline demonstration data how to handle various scenarios, so that during real-time operation, it can automatically adapt to new situations without requiring human intervention or reprogramming

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The neural network enables the robotic system to serve itself by automatically generating appropriate trajectories for new scenarios based on learned patterns. The system self-adapts to variable conditions without external assistance, reducing the need for human intervention while managing complexity through the autonomous learning capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Stability of the object's composition

If traditional waypoint-based trajectories are used, then the control logic is simple, but the robotic arm exhibits jerky movements and loses grip stability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegrip stabilityVSAvoidcontrol smoothness
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from static waypoint-based control to dynamic trajectory control where the neural network continuously adjusts control inputs based on the current state and learned optimal policies. This dynamic approach ensures smooth velocity and acceleration profiles that maintain grip stability while improving movement control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The neural network incorporates feedback from the robot's current state (position, velocity, acceleration) to generate appropriate control commands. The learned policy adjusts trajectories in real-time based on feedback, ensuring smooth transitions and maintaining grip stability during pick-and-place operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

4Productivity

If neural networks are used for trajectory optimization, then the robotic system achieves faster and smoother movements, but the computational complexity and training requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetask completion speedVSAvoidcomputational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The computationally intensive neural network training is performed in advance during an offline phase using demonstration data. Once trained, the network produces trajectories efficiently during real-time operation. This preliminary action separates the heavy computational burden from the time-critical execution phase, achieving both high productivity and acceptable computational complexity during operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12049010B2Trajectory optimization using neural networks
Publication Date: 2024.07.30 EMBODIED INTELLIGENCE INC
  • US12049010B2 patent drawing
  • US12049010B2 patent drawing
  • US12049010B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Various embodiments of the technology described herein generally relate to systems and methods for trajectory optimization with machine learning techniques. More specifically, certain embodiments relate to using neural networks to quickly predict optimized robotic arm trajectories in a variety of scenarios. Systems and methods described herein use deep neural networks to quickly predict optimized robotic arm trajectories according to certain constraints. Optimization, in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology, may include optimizing trajectory geometry and dynamics while satisfying a number of constraints, including staying collision-free and minimizing the time it takes to complete the task.