Robot HMI Multiplexer for Seamless Multi-Robot Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current control mechanisms for multiple robots using a single Human Machine Interface (HMI) device are inefficient, requiring manual disconnection and reconnection of the HMI device between robots, leading to increased costs, complexity, and reduced operator efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a Teach Pendant Unit Multiplexer (TPU-MUX) allows multiple robots to remain connected to a single HMI device, enabling seamless switching between robots and monitoring of their health conditions through an interactive user interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple HMI devices are connected to multiple robots in 1:1 configuration, then each robot can be controlled independently, but the overall cost increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The HMI device is designed to control multiple robots through a multiplexer system, allowing a single HMI to serve multiple robots rather than requiring dedicated HMI devices for each robot. This multi-functionality reduces the number of HMI devices needed while maintaining independent control capability for each robot.
Solution Approach 2:
A multiplexer is introduced as an intermediary device between the HMI and multiple robots. The multiplexer manages the connections and signal routing, allowing the single HMI to communicate with multiple robots sequentially without direct 1:1 connections, thereby reducing system complexity.
2Device complexity
If a single HMI device is used for multiple robots with manual disconnection and reconnection, then cost is reduced, but operator efficiency decreases and loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multiplexer enables continuous connection of the HMI device to multiple robots without requiring manual disconnection and reconnection. The HMI remains continuously connected to the system, and the multiplexer handles the switching between robots, eliminating interruptions and maintaining continuous operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiplexer is pre-configured with connection pathways to multiple robots before operation begins. This preliminary setup allows the HMI to switch between robots instantly without requiring manual reconnection actions, as the routing infrastructure is already in place and ready for immediate use.
3Device complexity
If manual disconnection and reconnection of HMI device is required, then device cost is reduced, but loss of time increases and operator efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The multiplexer acts as an intermediary that handles the switching between robots electronically, replacing the manual disconnection and reconnection process. This intermediary device manages the connection state changes instantly through electronic switching, eliminating the time-consuming manual operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical connection and disconnection of HMI devices is replaced by an electronic switching system (multiplexer). This substitution eliminates the physical plugging and unplugging actions, replacing them with electronic signal routing that occurs instantaneously, thereby eliminating the time loss associated with manual switching.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for controlling multiple robots using a single HMI device includes having a Teach Pendant Unit Multiplexer (TPU-MUX) that allows multiple robots to remain connected to the single HMI device all at the same time. The system further allows the HMI device to communicate with at least one robot among the plurality of connected robots, at a time and to switch between a plurality of connected robots seamlessly.