Robotic Manipulator Arm With 3D Workspace Mapping for Confined Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current remote manipulators are limited in versatility and capability, making them inadequate for performing operations in hazardous and difficult-to-access spaces, which requires a more advanced and adaptable robotic system for inspection, maintenance, and cleaning.
Innovation Solution
A remotely operable robotic manipulator arm (RMA) designed for versatility, durability, and safety, featuring extendable components, multiple degrees of freedom, and the ability to attach various tools, allowing it to navigate and operate in confined spaces with minimal human intervention, and is scalable for different applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If remote robotic manipulators are used to access hazardous spaces, then human safety is improved, but the manipulators lack versatility and capability for different operations
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic manipulator system is designed with a universal end effector interface that can accommodate multiple different tools and end effectors, allowing a single manipulator platform to perform diverse operations including cutting, welding, inspection, and maintenance tasks in hazardous environments
2Object-affected harmful factors
If remote robotic manipulators are used to access difficult-to-reach spaces, then human exposure to hazardous conditions is reduced, but the manipulators are limited in capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The manipulator system incorporates dynamically adjustable end effectors and tools that can be changed based on operational requirements, allowing the system to adapt its capabilities to match the specific demands of different hazardous environment tasks while maintaining remote operation for safety
3Reliability
If specialized manipulators are built for specific needs, then reliability for that specific task is improved, but versatility across different operations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The manipulator system is segmented into a modular architecture where the main manipulator arm is separated from the end effectors and tools, allowing the distal components to be independently changed and configured for specific tasks while maintaining a reliable core manipulator platform
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed herein for a robotic manipulator arm deployment and control system. The arm is operable to deploy tools, and one or more sensors including a non-contact sensor and a dynamic measurement unit. The non-contact sensor may be used for measuring range and bearing to objects in the operating space in polar coordinates to generate an electronic three-dimensional map of the operating space. The purpose of a three-dimensional map of the operating space is to define the boundaries of the operating space and any infrastructure or objects in the space that may restrict the RMA's range of motion in the space.