Robot Arm Strip Switch Layout for Multi-Angle Operability

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing robot systems have limitations in operability due to the design of input switches, which restricts efficient operation by operators.

Innovation Solution

A robot system with a strip-shaped switch that allows operation at multiple locations around the outer periphery of the arm, enabling the robot controller to transition the robot into a movable state based on the operator's input.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a single input switch is provided at the distal end portion of the robot arm, then the robot can be operated, but the operability is limited when the robot posture changes

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveoperabilityVSAvoidadaptability to posture changes
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The single input switch is segmented into multiple input switches arranged along the longitudinal direction of the arm. This segmentation allows different switches to be accessible depending on the arm's posture, thereby maintaining operability across various configurations while solving the limitation of a single fixed switch location

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The input switches are arranged not only along the longitudinal direction but also extend in the radial direction from the arm's centerline. This two-dimensional arrangement ensures that at least one switch remains accessible from the operator side regardless of the arm's rotational posture, solving the adaptability problem

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

2Ease of operation

If the input switch is fixed at one location, then the structure is simple, but the operator cannot easily access it when the robot posture changes

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveaccessibilityVSAvoidnumber of input switches
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple input switches are provided, each capable of performing the same input function. This multi-functionality ensures that regardless of which switch the operator accesses, the same operational effect is achieved, maintaining simplicity in function while improving accessibility across different postures

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

Data Source

PatentUS20250144813A1Robot system, robot, and robot control method
Publication Date: 2025.05.08 YASKAWA DENKI KK
  • US20250144813A1 patent drawing
  • US20250144813A1 patent drawing
  • US20250144813A1 patent drawing

AI summary

ObjectTo provide a robot system, a robot, and a robot control method capable of improving the operability of a robot.Solution to ProblemA robot system 1 includes a robot 3 and a robot controller 5 configured to control the robot 3. The robot 3 includes an arm 13 and a strip-shaped switch 25 configured to allow an operation at a plurality of locations in a direction of circling around an outer periphery of the arm 13, and allow the robot controller 5 to cause the robot 3 to be in an operable state based on the operation when an operator performs the operation.