Robot Arm Base Repositioning Without AGV Drive Hardware

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for moving robots, such as using hand carts or AGVs, either require constant worker supervision or expensive equipment, limiting their cost-effectiveness and flexibility.

Innovation Solution

A robot apparatus with a robot arm mechanism mounted on a base, controlled by a controller, allows the robot to change its position and orientation without needing large-scale equipment by utilizing the robot arm mechanism to move the base.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a hand cart is used to move the robot, then the robot can be moved manually, but a worker must be near the robot at all times which reduces the effect of reducing the number of workers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanual movabilityVSAvoidworker reduction effect
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The robot apparatus moves itself by controlling the robot arm mechanism to displace the base, eliminating the need for external human assistance during movement. This self-service capability resolves the contradiction by enabling autonomous mobility while maintaining worker reduction benefits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Extent of automation

If an AGV is used to move the robot, then no worker operation is required, but control devices and drive devices are required which make the equipment expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic movementVSAvoidequipment cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The robot arm mechanism serves dual functions: executing predetermined tasks and controlling base movement. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate AGV control devices and drive devices, achieving automatic movement while reducing equipment complexity and cost.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The control function for movement is merged into the existing controller that controls the robot arm mechanism for tasks. This consolidation eliminates redundant control devices and integrates movement control with task execution, resolving the cost complexity issue.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Extent of automation

If dedicated drive devices are added to move the robot base, then automatic movement is achieved, but the equipment becomes more expensive and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebase movabilityVSAvoidadditional equipment
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The robot arm mechanism is designed to perform both task execution and base movement control. By making the robot arm multi-functional, dedicated drive devices are eliminated, achieving automatic base movement without additional equipment complexity.

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

Data Source

PatentUS20260077495A1Robot apparatus
Publication Date: 2026.03.19 FANUC LTD
  • US20260077495A1 patent drawing
  • US20260077495A1 patent drawing
  • US20260077495A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A robot apparatus according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a robot arm mechanism mounted on a base, and a controller to control the robot arm mechanism to execute a predetermined task. The controller controls the robot arm mechanism to move the base.