Robot Arm Control via Non-Contact Distance Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robot control methods pose a risk of contamination when manual operation is required, particularly in medical environments, as they involve direct contact with the robot arm.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus utilizing non-contact distance sensors to detect movements and distances, allowing for contact-free control of robot arms by calculating target forces or torques and triggering functions based on detected movements, enabling operation without physical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual control of the robot arm is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical contact control with a non-contact sensing system. Distance sensors detect the position and movement of the operator's hand or body, and the control system translates these detections into robot arm movements, eliminating the need for direct physical contact with the robot arm while maintaining intuitive control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces distance sensors and a control system as intermediaries between the operator and the robot arm. The sensors detect movements without contact, and the control system processes this information to generate appropriate robot responses, serving as a mediator that transmits control intent without requiring physical contact.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If non-contact distance sensors are used for control, then contamination risk is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control device is designed to perform multiple functions: it processes distance sensor data, detects operator movements, calculates target positions, and controls robot arm movements. By making the control device multi-functional, the patent avoids adding separate dedicated systems for each function, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the distance sensor, control logic, and robot drive control into an integrated control system. Rather than having separate independent systems for sensing, processing, and actuation, these functions are merged into a unified control device that handles the entire control chain from sensor input to robot output.
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 intuitive control of robot arms without direct contact, reducing the risk of contamination and simplifying operation, particularly in medical settings where hygiene is critical.
Implementation Method 1
detecting a first movement of an object by means of a non-contact distance sensor situated in or on a robot arm of a robot
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a robot and a method for controlling a robot. The distance between an object and the robot and/or the derivative thereof or a first motion of the object is detected by means of a non-contact distance sensor arranged in or on a robot arm of the robot and/or on or in an end effector fastened on the robot arm. The robot arm is moved based on the first motion detected by means of the distance sensor, a target force or a target torque to be applied by the robot is determined based on the distance detected between the object and the robot, and/or a function of the robot or a parameterization of a function of the robot is triggered based on the first motion detected and/or a target distance between the object and the robot and/or the derivative thereof detected by means of the distance sensor.