Robot Arm Circumferential Switch Layout for Better Operability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing robot systems have limitations in operability due to the design of input switches, which can be improved to enhance user interaction and control.

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 controller to put the robot in 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 receive operator input signals, but the operability is insufficient when the robot's posture or orientation 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 distributed at different locations around the distal end portion of the robot arm. This allows the operator to access at least one operational switch regardless of the arm's posture or orientation, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and adaptability to posture changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If the input switch is located only at the distal end portion, then the structure is simple, but the operator cannot easily operate it when the arm orientation changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessibility of input switchVSAvoidnumber of input switches
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The input switches are arranged in a circumferential direction around the distal end portion of the robot arm, adding a spatial dimension to the switch layout. This circular arrangement ensures that at least one switch is always accessible to the operator regardless of the arm's orientation, improving ease of operation without significantly increasing complexity.

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

Data Source

PatentEP4552809A1Robot system, robot, and robot control method
Publication Date: 2025.05.14 YASKAWA DENKI KK
  • EP4552809A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4552809A1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP4552809A1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

Object To provide a robot system (1), a robot (3), and a robot control method capable of improving the operability of a robot (3). Solution to Problem A robot system (1) includes a robot (3) and a 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 controller (5) to cause the robot (3) to be in an operable state based on the operation when an operator performs the operation.