Valve-Based Deformable Sensor for Real-Time Rigidity Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current deformable sensors on robots lack the ability to adjust their rigidity levels in real time, which limits their accuracy in detecting shapes and dimensions of objects, requiring manual replacement or pressure adjustments of deformable members.
Innovation Solution
A deformable sensor system with fluidly coupled deformable members and a valve mechanism that allows for real-time control of rigidity by dispersing a medium between cavities, reducing the rigidity of the members by altering the volume of the medium within the cavities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the rigidity of deformable members is increased to improve structural stability, then the ability to accurately detect shapes and dimensions of objects deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic rigidity adjustment by connecting multiple deformable members with different rigidity values through valve members. The system can switch between different rigidity states (first rigidity value and second rigidity value) by controlling the orientation of valve members, allowing the deformable sensor to adapt its structural properties in real-time based on detection requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of rigidity by dispersing medium between cavities of different deformable members. By controlling the distribution of medium (fluid or gas) among connected deformable members, the system dynamically adjusts the rigidity characteristics of the sensor, enabling transition between high rigidity (for stability) and low rigidity (for detection accuracy) states.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual replacement or pressure adjustment of deformable members is performed to change rigidity levels, then rigidity adjustment capability is improved, but device complexity and operation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple deformable members with different rigidity characteristics into a single integrated sensor system. Instead of replacing individual members, the system combines them and uses valve members to control medium distribution, achieving rigidity adjustment through the collective behavior of the merged components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves automatic rigidity adjustment through internally controlled medium dispersal. The valve members, when oriented in different directions, automatically control the flow of medium between cavities, enabling the system to self-regulate its rigidity without external manual intervention for replacement or pressure adjustment.
3Ease of operation
If deformable members are made more compliant to improve object contact capability, then mechanical contact establishing capability is improved, but structural stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic switching between compliant and stable states by controlling valve member orientations. When high compliance is needed for contact establishment, the system disperses medium to soften the deformable member. When stability is needed, the system redistributes medium to increase rigidity, allowing the sensor to adapt its mechanical properties during operation.
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 precise and dynamic adjustment of rigidity levels of deformable members, enhancing the accuracy of object detection and mechanical contact capabilities without the need for manual replacement or pressure adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
The second rigidity value is based on a part of the medium dispersing from the first deformable member to the second deformable member responsive to the valve member being configured in the second orientation
Data Source
AI summary
A deformable sensor is provided. The deformable sensor includes a first deformable member defining a first cavity configured to be filled with a medium, a second deformable member defining a second cavity, a rigid component disposed between the first deformable member and the second deformable member such that the first deformable member is positioned on a first portion of the rigid component and the second deformable member is positioned on a second portion of the rigid component, the rigid component including an aperture disposed thereon, and a valve member configured to fluidly couple the first cavity of the first deformable member to the second cavity of the second deformable member via the aperture. The first deformable member has a first rigidity value when the valve member is configured in a first orientation, and a second rigidity value when the valve member is configured in the second orientation.