Robotic Multi-Pick Alignment for Faster Object Transfer

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional robotic arms require multiple round trips to move multiple objects, resulting in inefficient use of time when transferring objects from one location to another.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a robotic arm, a controller, and an image recognition device with adjustable picking devices arranged in a predefined pattern, allowing for simultaneous detection and pickup of multiple objects based on image recognition and coordinate calculations to optimize object alignment and movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a conventional robotic arm operates on one object at a time, then the robotic arm can perform precise single-object manipulation, but it requires multiple round trips to move multiple objects, resulting in time consumption

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveobject transfer efficiencyVSAvoidtime for multiple round trips

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple single-object manipulation operations into a single multi-object operation by equipping the robotic arm with multiple picking devices that can simultaneously grasp and transport multiple objects in one trip, thereby improving productivity and reducing time loss

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from one-dimensional sequential object handling to multi-dimensional parallel object handling by arranging multiple picking devices in specific spatial patterns (e.g., 2×2 array, linear arrangement) that enable simultaneous manipulation of multiple objects across different spatial positions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple picking devices are arranged in a predefined pattern with adjustable distances, then the system can adapt to different object arrangements, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different object arrangementsVSAvoidcomplexity of adjustable picking devices

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic adjustability in the picking device system, where distances between picking devices can be changed based on object arrangements. This is achieved through mechanisms such as telescopic arms, adjustable linkages, or programmable positioning systems that allow the picking pattern to adapt dynamically to different task requirements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The picking devices are designed with universal functionality to handle various object types and arrangements. The same set of picking devices can be reconfigured through software control to match different spatial patterns, eliminating the need for dedicated hardware for each specific arrangement scenario

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11577387B2Method and system for detecting and picking up objects

Publication Date: 2023.02.14 SOLOMON TECHNOLOGY CORP

AI summary

A method includes steps of: capturing an image of a container; recognizing at least one object in the container based on the image; determining at least one first coordinate set corresponding to the at least one object; determining at least one second coordinate set that corresponds to target one (s) of the at least one first coordinate set and that relates to a fixed picking device of a robotic arm; adjusting position(s) of unfixed picking device(s) of the robotic arm if necessary; controlling the robotic arm to pick up one (s) of the at least one object that correspond(s) to the at least one second coordinate set with the fixed picking device and/or at least one unfixed picking device.