Remote Demolition Robot 3D Visual Feedback System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing remote-controlled demolition robots require the operator to be within visual range, limiting their use in hazardous or dangerous environments where direct visibility is not possible, such as mining sites with collapse risks or radioactive areas.

Innovation Solution

The integration of a transmission device with image reproduction means, including image sensors and wireless communication, allows an operator to control and operate the robot from a safe distance by presenting a 3D view of the surroundings, enabling indirect viewing and control through a smartphone or dedicated display.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the operator controls the demolition robot within visual range, then the operator can directly observe the work area, but the robot cannot be used in hazardous environments where direct visibility is not possible or safe

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefield of applicationVSAvoidexposure to hazardous environment
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an image sensor device and image reproduction means as intermediaries between the operator and the work area. The image sensor captures visual information from the hazardous environment and transmits it to the operator through a communication unit, allowing the operator to control the robot remotely without direct exposure to harmful factors such as radioactive radiation or collapse risks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical visual observation system with an electronic imaging system. Instead of the operator directly viewing the work area through cameras or displays positioned near the robot, the system uses image sensors to capture images, processes them through communication units, and reproduces them for the operator, enabling remote operation beyond line-of-sight limits

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

2Speed

If the operator uses remote control within line of sight, then the control and operation can be performed with direct visual feedback, but the distance between the operator and the robot is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol response speedVSAvoiddistance between operator and robot
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The image sensor device acts as an intermediary that extends the operator's visual capability beyond line-of-sight limits. By capturing and transmitting images through communication units to image reproduction means, the system enables the operator to see and control the robot at distances much greater than what direct visual observation would allow

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from two-dimensional line-of-sight control to three-dimensional remote operation by introducing image sensors that capture spatial information and transmit it through communication channels, allowing the operator to control the robot in environments where direct visual contact is not possible

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If the demolition robot is equipped with image sensor device and image reproduction means, then the operator can control from safe distance, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesafety of operatorVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The image sensor device and communication unit are integrated into the existing demolition robot system, serving multiple functions: providing visual feedback for remote operation, enabling operation in hazardous environments, and potentially supporting navigation and inspection functions. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by providing comprehensive safety and operational capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 safe and effective operation of demolition robots in environments where direct visibility is not feasible, enhancing their applicability in hazardous conditions by allowing operators to control the robot from a safe distance while maintaining real-time visual feedback.

Implementation Method 1

an image sensor device, which can register first image data and second image data of a scene of surroundings from at least two view directions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight detection: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

a unit for communication with the image reproduction means, which is arranged to show the image area to the operator in real time

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWireless electromagnetic transmission: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12103161B2Remote-controlled demolition robot with improved field of application and a method to achieve such a demolition robot
Publication Date: 2024.10.01 BROKK AKTIEBOLAG
  • US12103161B2 patent drawing
  • US12103161B2 patent drawing
  • US12103161B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A remote-controlled demolition robot has improved field of application The demolition robot includes a chassis, a base with a rotatable top, a moveable arm, a working tool, a controller, and a remote-control intended to be impacted by an operator. The demolition robot is arranged to give commands that are registered by the controller for operation of the remote-controlled demolition robot. The demolition robot also includes a broadcaster and an image sensor, which can register first image data and second image data of a scene of surroundings of the demolition robot from at least two different view directions. The broadcaster can communicate with an image display, which is arranged to show, in real time, an image area of the scene to an operator, who can control and operate the demolition robot through indirect viewing.