Mobile Robot Joystick Light Signals for Mode Visibility
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile robot operation devices do not allow people in the surroundings to visually recognize the state of the mobile robot, making it difficult to manage and operate effectively, especially when switching between autonomous and manual travel modes.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a light emitting unit into the operation device, such as a joystick, that emits specific light patterns to indicate the state of the mobile robot, allowing operators to easily recognize its status and mode through visual cues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a manual operation mode is implemented, then the mobile robot can be operated by people, but the state of the mobile robot cannot be visually recognized by people in the surroundings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color changes by using light emitting units that emit different colored lights to indicate different operational states of the mobile robot. The light emitting unit changes its emission color based on the current mode (autonomous or manual operation), allowing people to visually recognize the robot's state without additional displays or interfaces.
2Extent of automation
If autonomous travel mode is used, then the mobile robot can operate automatically, but the state of the mobile robot cannot be visually recognized by people in the surroundings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color changes to indicate the autonomous travel mode. The light emitting unit emits specific colors to show when the robot is in autonomous mode versus manual mode, providing visual feedback to people in the surroundings about the robot's operational state without requiring additional communication interfaces.
3Device complexity
If no visual indication system is added, then the device complexity remains low, but the state of the mobile robot cannot be visually recognized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by making the light emitting unit serve multiple functions: it indicates both the operational mode (autonomous/manual) and provides visual feedback about the robot's state. This single component performs what would otherwise require multiple separate indication systems, maintaining low device complexity while solving the visual recognition problem.
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 effective operation and visual recognition of the mobile robot's state by the operator and surrounding individuals, enhancing safety and operational efficiency by clearly indicating its mode and any potential issues through distinct light emission patterns.
Implementation Method 1
a light emitting unit configured to emit light in a light emission pattern that indicates a state of the mobile robot
Data Source
AI summary
An operation device according to the present disclosure includes: an operation unit configured to receive an operation including a direction operation for a mobile robot; and a light emitting unit configured to emit light in a light emission pattern that indicates the state of the mobile robot.