Teach Pendant Lighting Control for Dim Robot Workspaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
In dimly lit or unlighted work environments, robot technicians face difficulties, cumbersome work, and potential hazards due to insufficient lighting, making it challenging to interact with and program robots safely.
Innovation Solution
A teach pendant system equipped with a light that can be operatively connected to the pendant or robot, allowing selective activation and deactivation, providing illumination in desired areas through swiveling, removable, and adjustable features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a light is provided in connection with a teach pendant and/or robot, then illumination intensity in work area is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light source with the teach pendant and/or robot system into an integrated unit. The control module that manages robot operations is extended to also control the light source, eliminating the need for separate lighting equipment and reducing overall system complexity despite adding illumination capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The teach pendant and robot system are given multi-functionality by incorporating light control capabilities. The same control module that manages robot operations also controls the illumination, allowing a single device to perform both robotic control and lighting functions, thereby avoiding additional complex subsystems.
2Ease of operation
If the light is selectively activated and deactivated by the teach pendant, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control module for the light source is merged with the existing teach pendant control system. The same interface and control mechanisms used for robot operation are extended to control light activation and deactivation, providing ease of operation without requiring separate controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The teach pendant is designed with universal control capabilities that manage both robot operations and light control through a single interface. This multi-functional approach allows operators to control illumination alongside robotic functions, improving ease of operation while avoiding the complexity of separate control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A teach pendant can be communicatively coupled to a light. The teach pendant can be communicatively coupled to a robot. The teach pendant can include one or more processors. The teach pendant can be configured to control the light. For instance, the teach pendant can be configured to selectively activate and deactivate the light. The light can be operatively connected to the teach pendant or the robot. The light can help robot programmers or technicians see in dark or dimly lit work environments. The light can improve user safety in such environments and/or enhance the work environment.