Robot-Operator Collaboration for Adaptive Part Modification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Collaborative manufacturing between operators and robots in aeronautical part production is hindered by the operator's deviation from programmed sequences, leading to wasted time and manufacturing errors.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that adapt to the operator's actions, using sensors and visual/auditory signals to monitor and control the robot's movements, ensuring collision avoidance and synchronized operations by comparing actual part modifications with pre-programmed models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the robot follows a strictly programmed sequence and waits for the operator to complete each operation in order, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but productivity decreases due to wasted time when the operator deviates from the sequence
Solution Approach 1:
The robot is equipped with sensors (cameras, proximity sensors) that continuously monitor the operator's actions and the part's state in real-time. This feedback allows the robot to detect when the operator has completed an operation or deviated from the programmed sequence, enabling the robot to adapt its behavior dynamically rather than following a rigid predetermined sequence
Solution Approach 2:
The robot's control system transitions from static predetermined sequences to dynamic adaptive sequences. The robot can modify its trajectory, speed, and operation timing based on real-time detection of operator actions, allowing it to wait intelligently at specific positions rather than following a fixed timeline
2Productivity
If the robot moves quickly along predetermined trajectories to maintain productivity, then manufacturing time is reduced, but the risk of collision with the operator increases
Solution Approach 1:
Proximity sensors and vision systems continuously monitor the operator's position and movements. When the operator enters the robot's workspace or moves unexpectedly, the system detects this immediately and triggers a response, allowing the robot to slow down or stop to prevent collision while maintaining high speed during safe operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system proactively prevents collisions by monitoring the operator's movements and predicting potential conflicts before they occur. When a risk is detected, the robot preemptively adjusts its speed or trajectory to avoid the collision, rather than reacting after the collision has already occurred
3Ease of operation
If the operator works at their own pace without following the programmed sequence, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to potential errors and time wastage
Solution Approach 1:
The operator is empowered to work independently at their own pace without being constrained by a rigid programmed sequence. The robot autonomously monitors the part's state and detects when operations have been completed, allowing the operator to focus on their tasks without constantly synchronizing with the robot's predetermined sequence
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors both the operator's actions and the part's state, providing feedback that allows the robot to understand when operations are complete even if the operator deviates from the expected sequence. This enables the robot to adapt and maintain precision without restricting operator flexibility
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
Ensures synchronized and collision-free operations, reducing manufacturing errors and time wastage by adapting the robot's actions to the operator's deviations.
Implementation Method 1
The monitoring is implemented by means of proximity sensor(s) (13) arranged on the robot.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for modifying the state of a part, typically an aeronautical part and in particular a turbomachine, by means of a robot controlled by a processing unit, a part being placed in a working environment which an operator has access to in order to perform an operation on the part, said method comprising the following steps, implemented by the processing unit: - detection of an operation performed on the part by the operator; and whether at the place where the operation was performed the robot must perform an operation; - execution by the robot of a predefined operation on said part at the place where the operator performed the operation.