Robot End-Effector Posture Setting with Dual Line Lasers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing robots face challenges in easily and accurately setting appropriate postures for their end effectors, such as imaging devices and dispensers, which affects their operational accuracy and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

The robot is equipped with first and second light-emitting parts that irradiate line lasers in specific orientations to facilitate precise alignment and posture setting of end effectors, allowing for easy adjustment and registration of optimal operational positions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional manual methods are used to set end effector postures, then the setup process is simple, but the positioning accuracy and operational precision are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveend effector positioning accuracyVSAvoidlight-emitting device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces line lasers as an intermediary tool between the operator and the end effector positioning process. The lasers provide visual reference lines that mediate the alignment process, enabling precise positioning without requiring complex mechanical positioning mechanisms. The line lasers serve as a mediating reference system that simplifies the complex task of accurate end effector positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical positioning mechanisms with an optical-based laser alignment system. Instead of using complex mechanical adjustment devices, motors, or sensors to achieve precise positioning, the system uses line lasers to provide visual guidance for manual alignment, substituting mechanical complexity with optical simplicity while maintaining high positioning accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Manufacturing precision

If complex positioning mechanisms are used to achieve accurate end effector postures, then the positioning accuracy improves, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveend effector posture accuracyVSAvoidposture setting ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The line lasers act as an intermediary reference system that simplifies the operation of positioning the end effector. Operators can visually align the end effector with the laser lines, making the complex task of achieving precise posture simple and intuitive. The lasers mediate between the operator's intent and the precise positioning requirement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes the visual property of light emission from the line lasers to create high-contrast reference lines that are easily visible against the background. This visual contrast enables operators to quickly and easily identify alignment positions, making the posture setting process simple and efficient without requiring complex mechanical aids.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

3Measurement precision

If multiple light-emitting parts are added to the distal part, then the alignment capability is improved, but the device weight and volume increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment precisionVSAvoiddistal part weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses two line lasers (first and second light-emitting parts) which provides more than the minimum single laser reference, creating a two-dimensional alignment reference system. This partial redundancy of lighting components enhances alignment precision in multiple directions without requiring excessive additional weight, as only two compact laser modules are added rather than a full mechanical positioning system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

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

This method enables accurate and efficient setting of end effector postures, ensuring proper imaging and dispensing operations, enhancing the robot's overall performance and accuracy.

Implementation Method 1

a first light-emitting part mounted to the distal part, the first light-emitting part irradiating a first line laser in a first direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

a second light-emitting part mounted to the distal part, the second light-emitting part irradiating a second line laser in a second direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Data Source

PatentUS20250296244A1Robot, light-emitting device, and teaching method
Publication Date: 2025.09.25 KK TOSHIBA
  • US20250296244A1 patent drawing
  • US20250296244A1 patent drawing
  • US20250296244A1 patent drawing

AI summary

According to one embodiment, a robot includes a manipulator, a first end effector and first and second light-emitting parts. The first end effector is mounted to a distal part of the manipulator. The first light-emitting part is mounted to the distal part, the first light-emitting part irradiating a first line laser in a first direction. The second light-emitting part is mounted to the distal part, the second light-emitting part irradiating a second line laser in a second direction. The first direction is tilted with respect to an orientation of the first end effector in a first plane, the first plane being parallel to a direction from the distal part toward the first end effector. The second direction is tilted with respect to the orientation of the first end effector in a second plane, the second plane being parallel to the first direction and crossing the first plane.