Thumb Sheath Presence Sensing for Controlled Robot Controller Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
User input devices with multiple degrees of freedom require user support, making it difficult to disengage from the device in a controlled manner, and there is a need for improved methods to detect user presence for robotic systems.
Innovation Solution
A user controller with a thumb sheath that includes a light sensor or capacitive sensor to detect thumb presence, allowing for controlled engagement and disengagement, and transmitting signals to the system controller to manage device operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If thumb restraint and forefinger restraint are used to constrain the user's hand to the device, then control of the main body is maintained, but it becomes difficult for the user to disengage with the device in a controlled manner
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint mechanism transitions from a static constraint to a dynamic system that adapts its constraint level based on user presence detection. When the user is detected, the restraints maintain control; when the user is absent, the restraints release or are supported by the system, enabling controlled disengagement.
Solution Approach 2:
A sensor system detects user presence at the controller and provides feedback to the system controller. This feedback enables the system to automatically adjust the restraint mechanism or provide support forces, allowing the user to disengage controlledly without manually overcoming mechanical constraints.
2Ease of operation
If the user removes their hand from the input device without mechanical force support, then disengagement is achieved, but gravity pulls the input device downward causing undesirable movement of the robotic device
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor detects user absence before the user fully disengages, and the system controller activates support mechanisms (such as force feedback or mechanical support) in advance. This preliminary action prevents gravity from causing undesirable movement when the user removes their hand.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides counteracting forces (through force feedback mechanisms or support structures) that balance the gravitational pull on the input device when the user is absent. This counterweight effect maintains device position stability during disengagement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple degrees of freedom are provided in the user input device, then control capability is enhanced, but the user must support the mass of the input device
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system detects when the user is present at the controller and provides feedback to activate support mechanisms. This enables the system to provide force feedback or mechanical support that offsets the weight of the multi-DOF input device, allowing the user to operate the device without manually supporting its full mass.
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 controlled and efficient user interaction with robotic systems by ensuring proper engagement and disengagement, preventing undesirable device movement due to gravity.
Implementation Method 1
a light sensor or capacitive sensor to detect thumb presence
Implementation Method 2
a light sensor or capacitive sensor to detect thumb presence
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is relates to a user controller having a thumb sheath with an open side defined in the thumb sheath. Further embodiments relate to thumb presence sensors and sensory feedback components associated with the thumb sheath. Additional embodiments relate to an adjustable thumb sheath. Still other embodiments relate to systems comprising such user controllers.