Robot Arm Restriction Region Setting via Visual Workspace Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for setting operation prohibited regions for robot arms are complex and time-consuming, making it difficult to efficiently set the position and shape of these regions, which is essential for safe robot operation.
Innovation Solution
A setting device and method that includes a display section for showing a restriction region setting image with input sections for selecting permitted or prohibited regions and inputting boundary information, and a processing section that acquires and sets the restriction region based on user input, allowing for easy and quick configuration of the robot arm's operation space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional method is used to set the operation prohibited region, then the robot safety is ensured, but the setting operation becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a camera to capture images of the actual work environment and creates a virtual copy of the space on a display screen. The operator can then set the prohibited region by simply drawing or selecting areas on this visual copy, rather than manually inputting complex coordinate data. This copying approach maintains safety through accurate spatial representation while dramatically simplifying the setting operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical/manual method of setting prohibited regions (which requires manual coordinate input and calculation) with a visual/image-based system. The camera captures the environment, displays it visually, and allows graphical selection of regions, substituting mechanical coordinate manipulation with visual interaction. This reduces setting complexity while maintaining the reliability of safety zone definition.
2Reliability
If a traditional method is used to set the operation prohibited region, then the robot safety is ensured, but the setting time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by capturing images of the work environment in advance using a camera before the operator needs to set the prohibited region. The visual representation is prepared and displayed ready for interaction, eliminating the need for real-time coordinate calculation or complex manual setup during the actual setting process. This preliminary image capture significantly reduces the time required for safety region configuration while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
By creating a visual copy of the work space through camera imaging, the system allows the operator to quickly identify and select prohibited regions by visual reference rather than manual measurement and calculation. This copying method enables rapid setting while ensuring accurate spatial definition, thereby reducing setting time without compromising robot safety.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual coordinate input is used to define the prohibited region, then the position and shape can be precisely set, but the operation becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a visual copy of the physical work space on a display screen through camera imaging. The operator can then define the prohibited region by directly interacting with this visual representation—such as by drawing shapes or selecting areas—rather than manually inputting coordinates. This maintains precise position and shape definition through accurate visual reference while dramatically improving ease of operation through intuitive graphical interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an image display as an intermediary between the operator and the robot's coordinate system. Instead of directly manipulating numerical coordinates, the operator interacts with a visual representation of the space. This intermediary layer translates simple visual selections into precise coordinate definitions, maintaining manufacturing precision while greatly enhancing ease of operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
A setting device includes a display section configured to display a restriction region setting image including a first input section for selecting and inputting either a restriction region of a permitted region where intrusion of a robot arm of a robot is permitted or a prohibited region where intrusion of the robot arm is prohibited and a second input section for inputting a boundary of the restriction region; an acquisition section configured to acquire setting information input and set in the first input section and the second input section; and a process section configured to set the restriction region for the robot arm based on the setting information acquired by the acquisition section.