Robot Simulator Handle Positioning for Clear Virtual Operation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing robot simulators face difficulties in displaying operating handles such that surrounding environment models overlap with the operating portion, making it difficult to visually check or access the handle and operate the robot effectively.

Innovation Solution

The information processing apparatus allows users to adjust the display position and magnification of the operating handle within the virtual space, enabling optimal placement and visibility by inputting setting information through a user interface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the operating handle is displayed at the default position in the virtual space, then the simulation can be executed, but the operating handle may be obscured by surrounding environment models making it difficult to visually check or access

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperability of operating handleVSAvoidvisibility of operating handle
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The operating handle is configured to move automatically when the robot moves, maintaining its relative position and visibility. The handle dynamically adjusts its position in response to robot movement, ensuring it remains accessible and visible throughout the simulation process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

A control unit serves as an intermediary that receives operation signals and transmits them to both the robot and the operating handle. This mediator coordinates the movement of the handle with the robot, ensuring the handle remains visible and accessible while the robot performs its simulated operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the operating handle is made larger or more prominent to improve visibility, then it becomes easier to access, but it may obstruct the view of the virtual robot and surrounding environment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessibility of operating handleVSAvoidvisibility of virtual environment
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The operating handle is positioned in a spatial dimension that separates it from the main virtual robot model. By placing the handle at a location that is visually distinct and spatially separated, both the handle and the virtual environment remain clearly visible without mutual obstruction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The operating handle is designed with specific visual characteristics (such as color, shape, or transparency) that differentiate it from the surrounding environment. This local differentiation ensures the handle is easily identifiable and accessible without obscuring the overall virtual scene.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Loss of information

If the operating handle is fixed in position to maintain visibility, then it remains easily accessible, but it cannot follow the robot's movement and may become misaligned with the robot's current position

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisibility of operating handleVSAvoidtracking capability of operating handle
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The operating handle is configured to move automatically when the robot moves, maintaining its relative position and visibility. The handle dynamically adjusts its position in response to robot movement, ensuring it remains accessible and visible throughout the simulation process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors the robot's position and uses this feedback to adjust the operating handle's position accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures the handle remains properly aligned with the robot's current position while maintaining visibility and accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12479083B2Information processing apparatus, information processing method, robot system, manufacturing method for article using robot system, program, and recording medium
Publication Date: 2025.11.25 CANON KK
  • US12479083B2 patent drawing
  • US12479083B2 patent drawing
  • US12479083B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing apparatus that executes a simulation by using a virtual model. The information processing apparatus includes a processing unit. The processing unit is configured to display the virtual model and an operating portion on a display unit, the operating portion being used by a user to operate the virtual model, and change setting information on the operating portion in response to input of the user.