Modular Robot Handheld Controller With Ambidextrous Side Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic handheld devices are monolithic and cannot modify or expand their functionality based on whether they are gripped with the left or right hand, limiting their adaptability and configurability.
Innovation Solution
A modular robot operator handheld device with a symmetrical housing design featuring identical mechanical coupling means on both ends, allowing for interchangeable modules such as a tablet computer, computer keyboard, joystick, jog shuttle, or jog dial, and a detachable adapter with ergonomic features for ambidextrous use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a monolithic design is used for the handheld device, then the structure is simple and manufacturing is easier, but the functionality cannot be modified or expanded and adaptability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The handheld device is divided into a central housing unit and separate connection modules that can be independently attached or detached. The housing contains basic safety control functions, while additional functionality is provided by interchangeable modules such as input devices, display devices, or communication devices connected via the mechanical coupling means.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical coupling means is designed with mirror symmetry to enable universal connection of various module types to either side of the housing. This universal interface allows a single housing unit to work with multiple different module configurations, achieving multi-functionality without requiring multiple specialized devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the device is designed for specific hand grip (left or right), then the ergonomic design can be optimized for that hand, but the device cannot be adapted for use with the other hand
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs mirror-symmetrical design in its housing and coupling means, creating a balanced structure that can be adapted to either left or right hand grip. The symmetry allows the device to maintain ergonomic properties for both hands while the selectable modules can be positioned optimally based on which hand is used for gripping.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modules are made interchangeable and detachable, then the device becomes more flexible and adaptable, but the connection and disconnection operations become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical coupling means integrates multiple functions into a single unified interface: mechanical attachment, electrical connection, and alignment guidance are combined in one coupling mechanism. This merging reduces the complexity that would otherwise require separate mechanisms for each function, making the attach/detach operation simple despite the multifunctional capabilities.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a modular robot-operated handheld device (1), comprising a safety base control device arranged in a housing (2) with an emergency-stop triggering means (5) and an approval device (6), as well as a first mechanical coupling means (7.1) formed on one end wall (3.1) of the housing (2), and a second mechanical coupling means (7.2), identical to the first mechanical coupling means (7.1), formed on the other end wall (3.2) of the housing (2), in such a way that a connection module (10) to be mechanically coupled to the modular robot-operated handheld device (1) can be optionally coupled to the first mechanical coupling means (7.1) on the right-hand side of the modular robot-operated handheld device (1), or to the second mechanical coupling means (7.2) on the left-hand side of the modular robot-operated handheld device (1). The invention also relates to associated connection modules (10) which can be optionally coupled to the modular robot-operated handheld device (1).