Handheld Robot Pendant 3D Workcell Visualization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robot teach devices lack the capability to display high-quality, manipulable three-dimensional images of workcells, requiring operators to access dedicated computers and possess advanced mathematical knowledge to visualize complex robotic operations, leading to potential equipment damage and limited visualization of safety zones and interference regions.
Innovation Solution
A hand-held robot pendant system that communicates with a robot controller to generate and manipulate real-time, high-resolution three-dimensional graphical representations of workcell data, including safety zones and robot paths, eliminating the need for a PC and providing intuitive navigation and visualization features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a dedicated PC with customized programming code is used to display three-dimensional workcell data, then high quality three-dimensional images can be generated, but device complexity and operator skill requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The robot controller is enhanced to perform multiple functions: it not only controls robot operations but also generates and displays three-dimensional workcell images directly on the teach pendant. This eliminates the need for separate PC hardware and customized programming code, as the controller itself becomes a universal device capable of both control and visualization tasks
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential three-dimensional image generation capability from the complex PC-based system and integrates it directly into the robot controller's existing architecture. By utilizing the controller's built-in processor and communication interfaces, the system removes the external PC dependency while maintaining image quality
2Device complexity
If operators use traditional teach pendants with text-based information, then device simplicity is maintained, but operator understanding and safety are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional text-based displays to three-dimensional graphical representations on the teach pendant. By rendering workcell elements, robot positions, and safety zones in 3D space, operators gain intuitive spatial understanding without sacrificing the portability and simplicity of the handheld device
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a virtual three-dimensional copy of the physical workcell that can be displayed on the teach pendant screen. This digital replica allows operators to visualize robot paths, safety zones, and equipment locations without requiring access to physical space or complex external systems
3Measurement precision
If offline simulation systems are used to visualize workcell data, then three-dimensional images can be generated, but real-time connection to robot execution is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the offline simulation visualization capability with the online robot control system. The robot controller continuously receives workcell data from offline simulation preparations and maintains real-time synchronization with actual robot execution, allowing operators to view accurate three-dimensional images that reflect current robot positions and states without time delays
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements real-time feedback loops where the robot controller continuously updates the three-dimensional display based on actual robot sensor data and execution status. This ensures the visualized workcell model remains synchronized with physical reality, providing operators with current information for safe and accurate operation
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an apparatus for displaying three-dimensional workcell data includes a hand-held pendant that is provided with 3-D workcell data representing a model of a machine and associated components in a workcell. The hand-held pendant has a display that generates a 3-D visual representation of the workcell data. The pendant can be operated by a user to manipulate the visual representation to change a user viewpoint and to show motion of the machine with associated process information.