Robot Speed Switching With Object Detection for Collision Avoidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robot systems face interference issues when objects, particularly humans, approach the robot in modes different from the cooperation mode, leading to potential collisions.
Innovation Solution
A robot system equipped with an object detecting device, light curtain, safety door sensor, and force detecting section, along with a controller that switches operation modes based on sensor inputs to ensure safe human-robot interaction, using low-speed human cooperation mode when objects are detected close or in contact, and high-speed normal mode otherwise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the robot operates in automatic mode with high speed, then productivity is improved, but the risk of interference and collision with objects increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robot control system dynamically adjusts its operation mode and speed based on real-time detection of objects in the workspace. When objects are detected, the system automatically transitions from high-speed automatic mode to low-speed cooperation mode or stops, eliminating the need for fixed manual mode switching while maintaining both productivity and safety
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs object detection devices that continuously monitor the workspace and provide feedback to the control unit. This feedback mechanism enables the robot to automatically adjust its operation based on the presence of objects, resolving the contradiction between high-speed operation and collision risk through real-time adaptive control
2Reliability
If the robot operates in cooperation mode with low speed, then safety is improved, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The robot control system dynamically adjusts its operation mode and speed based on real-time detection of objects in the workspace. When objects are detected, the system automatically transitions from high-speed automatic mode to low-speed cooperation mode or stops, eliminating the need for fixed manual mode switching while maintaining both productivity and safety
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic monitoring of the workspace through object detection devices, alternating between high-speed operation periods (when workspace is clear) and low-speed/cautious operation periods (when objects are detected), optimizing both safety and productivity through time-based adaptive control
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual mode switching is required, then operational flexibility is improved, but system complexity and user burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The robot control unit automatically determines the appropriate operation mode by processing data from object detection devices, eliminating the need for manual mode switching. The system serves itself by autonomously adapting its operation based on workspace conditions, reducing user burden while maintaining operational flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit integrates multiple functions including automatic control, cooperation mode, and monitoring capabilities into a single unified system that automatically selects the appropriate operation mode, eliminating the need for separate manual switching mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
A controller of a robot includes a first coupling section coupled to an object detecting device configured to detect an object. The controller is configured to control the robot in one of a first mode in which displacement speed of the robot does not exceed first speed and a second mode in which the displacement speed is second speed higher than the first speed, when the object detecting device is coupled to the first coupling section, switch the first mode and the second mode based on an output from the object detecting device, and control the robot in the first mode when the object detecting device is not coupled to the first coupling section.