Robotic Coating Evaluation Using Force and Torque Sensing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for evaluating coating compositions and applicators are subjective and prone to variations due to user inconsistency, fatigue, and composition characteristics, lacking objective and repeatable assessment.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a test bed, controlled sensing arm, sensor, and analyzer that objectively quantify coating composition and applicator properties by applying the composition according to a pre-programmed movement routine, measuring force, torque, and deriving quantitative application characteristics independent of human variation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a user manually applies coating composition and assesses application characteristics on a numerical scale, then the evaluation can be performed with simple equipment, but the results introduce subjectivity based on user variation, fatigue, and inconsistency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical assessment system with an automated robotic arm system equipped with sensors. The robotic arm applies the coating composition according to pre-programmed movement routines while sensors measure force, torque, and other parameters objectively, eliminating human subjectivity and variation in the evaluation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-assessment by automatically applying the coating composition and measuring its own application characteristics through integrated sensors. The robotic arm and sensor system independently evaluate coating properties without requiring human intervention for measurement, ensuring consistent and repeatable results.
2Reliability
If a robotic system with sensors and pre-programmed routines is used to apply coating composition, then objective and repeatable evaluation is achieved, but the device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic arm system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can apply different coating compositions, use various applicators (rollers, brushes, sprayers), and measure multiple parameters (force, torque, flow rate) through integrated sensors. This multi-functionality justifies the increased complexity by providing comprehensive evaluation capabilities in a single system.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the pre-programmed movement routines and the robotic arm actuators, translating high-level commands into precise motor control. This intermediary layer simplifies the overall system architecture by separating the control logic from the physical actuation, making the complex system more manageable and programmable.
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
Enables objective and repeatable evaluation of coating compositions and applicators, providing consistent and reliable data for comparison and formulation adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor capable of measuring force, torque, or combinations thereof, the sensor coupled to the extender and the coating composition applicator
Data Source
AI summary
Methods for objectively deriving quantitative application characteristics of a coating composition or applicator independent of human application variation. The method comprises applying a coating composition to a test bed using a coating composition applicator using a controlled sensing arm according to one or more pre-programmed movement routines, sensing force, torque, or combinations thereof while preventing relative movement of the test bed and controlled sensing arm, and deriving a quantitative application characteristic of the coating composition that is independent of human variation.