Optical Tactile-Proximity Sensor Cover for Compact Robot Hands
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor configurations for robot hands that combine tactile and proximity sensing are complex and bulky due to the need for separate sensors and complicated detection mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A tactile and proximity sensor system utilizing a simple optical mechanism with a dome-shaped cover that includes a reflective section and transmission sections, allowing for both contact force and proximity sensing through light emission and reception, enabling seamless detection of object contact and proximity using a single sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate sensors are installed for tactile and proximity sensing, then sensing functionality is achieved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines tactile sensing and proximity sensing into a single integrated sensor unit. The sensor includes a light source, light receiving section, and elastic body that work together to perform both sensing functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate sensors and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor is designed with multi-functionality to perform both tactile sensing (detecting contact force) and proximity sensing (detecting distance to objects) using a single device. The light source and light receiving section can detect different types of information depending on the sensing mode, making the sensor universal for multiple sensing purposes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate sensors are installed for tactile and proximity sensing, then sensing functionality is achieved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges tactile and proximity sensors into a single compact unit, significantly reducing the volume required for sensing functionality. The integrated design allows both sensing capabilities to coexist in a small form factor suitable for robot hands and other space-constrained applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor components are nested within each other in a compact arrangement. The light source and light receiving section are positioned within the elastic body structure, creating a nested configuration that minimizes overall device volume while maintaining full sensing functionality.
3Measurement precision
If complicated detection mechanisms are used for combined sensing, then sensing accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical detection mechanisms with an optical detection system. By using light emission and light reception, the sensor achieves accurate tactile and proximity sensing without requiring complicated mechanical structures, thereby maintaining measurement precision while reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor detects different parameters (light intensity, reflection patterns) to distinguish between tactile contact and proximity conditions. By monitoring changes in light parameters rather than using separate mechanical sensors, the system achieves accurate sensing with a simpler detection mechanism.
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 compact sensing of contact forces and proximity with a single optical sensor, reducing complexity and size, and allowing for seamless detection of object movements from proximity to contact.
Implementation Method 1
a transmission section that allows light to pass through in a first direction from the light source
Implementation Method 2
a reflective section that reflects light between the light source and the light receiving section
Implementation Method 3
The light receiving section receives light and generates a signal providing a result of the received light
Implementation Method 4
The cover includes an elastic body that deforms under external force and covers the light source and the light receiving section
Data Source
AI summary
A tactile and proximity sensor includes a light source, a light receiving section, and a cover. The light source emits light. The light receiving section receives light and generates a signal providing a result of the received light. The cover includes an elastic body that deforms under external force and that covers the light source and the light receiving section. The cover includes a reflective section that reflects light between the light source and the light receiving section and a transmission section that allows light to pass through in a first direction from the light source and that allows light to pass through in a second direction from the light receiving section.