Robotic Holding Method Selection for Mixed-Object Handling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing handling systems face challenges in efficiently determining and implementing optimal holding strategies for objects of varying shapes, sizes, and weights, particularly in logistics and industrial settings, as they require adaptable holding methods and precise posture calculations to ensure effective transfer operations.

Innovation Solution

A handling system comprising a movable arm, a holding unit, and sensors, controlled by a controller that calculates scores for different holding methods and selects the most suitable method based on acquired information, allowing for efficient object positioning and posture adjustment to optimize handling operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple holding methods are used to handle objects of various shapes, sizes, and weights, then the adaptability of the handling system is improved, but the complexity of switching between holding methods increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to various objectsVSAvoidcomplexity of switching holding methods
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holding unit is designed to perform multiple holding methods (pinching, adsorption, magnetic attraction) using a single integrated structure. The holding unit can switch between these methods based on the object characteristics detected by the sensor, eliminating the need for multiple separate holding devices and reducing system complexity while maintaining high adaptability to various objects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If the holding strategy is determined by calculating scores for each object and holding method, then the precision of holding selection is improved, but the calculation time and processing requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of holding method selectionVSAvoidcalculation time for holding strategy
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system pre-establishes score calculation criteria and thresholds for different holding methods before actual operation. When an object is detected, the controller quickly compares the object characteristics against these pre-defined criteria to determine the appropriate holding method, significantly reducing real-time calculation time while maintaining precise selection accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If the system prioritizes the currently selected holding method when it is reasonably effective, then the handling efficiency is improved, but the risk of suboptimal holding selection increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehandling efficiencyVSAvoidreliability of holding method selection
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors the effectiveness of the currently selected holding method through sensor feedback. If the holding becomes ineffective or the object characteristics change, the system automatically recalculates scores and switches to a more appropriate holding method. This feedback mechanism ensures both high handling efficiency and reliable holding method selection by dynamically adjusting to actual conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12115665B2Handling system, transport system, control device, storage medium, and handling method
Publication Date: 2024.10.15 KK TOSHIBA
  • US12115665B2 patent drawing
  • US12115665B2 patent drawing
  • US12115665B2 patent drawing

AI summary

According to one embodiment, a handling system includes a movable arm, a holding unit, a sensor, and a controller. The holding unit is attached to the movable arm and capable of holding an object by selecting one or more of a plurality of holding methods. The sensor is capable of detecting a plurality of the objects. The controller controls the movable arm and the holding unit. The controller calculates a score based on a selected holding method for each object and each holding method on the basis of information acquired from the sensor. The controller selects a next object to be held and a holding method on the basis of the score. The controller calculates a position at which the selected object is held and a posture of the movable arm.