Video Equipment Control Handle With Force Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional video equipment control systems, particularly robotic systems, lack the intuitive tactile feedback and mechanical feel of manual systems, making it difficult for operators to control pedestals and other equipment effectively, especially in terms of weight and friction, which can impact the composition of shots and overall operation.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a hub, arms, and sensors that mimic manual control by sensing forces applied to a control handle and generating control signals to drive motion of video equipment pedestals, allowing for adjustable virtual mass and friction settings, and enabling/disabling motion control, to emulate the feel of manual operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If robotic control is implemented for video equipment pedestals, then automation and ease of operation are improved, but tactile feedback and mechanical feel are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The control device incorporates force sensors that detect applied forces and provide real-time feedback through compliant couplings, allowing the robotic system to respond to operator inputs with tactile feedback that mimics manual operation
Solution Approach 2:
Compliant couplings act as intermediaries between the control handle and the robotic system, providing mechanical feedback while transmitting control signals, thus bridging the gap between robotic automation and manual tactile feel
2Adaptability or versatility
If virtual mass and friction settings are added to control devices, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control device allows operators to adjust virtual mass and friction parameters to change the tactile characteristics of the robotic system, enabling adaptation to different operating conditions and operator preferences
Solution Approach 2:
The control device integrates multiple functions including force sensing, compliant coupling, and adjustable virtual mass/friction settings into a single universal control interface, reducing overall system complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A control handle extends at least partially around a hub. Multiple arms extend in respective different directions between the hub and the control handle. Sensors sense an effect of an input force applied to the control device and acting on each of the arms relative to multiple directions. A controller interface is coupled to the sensors, to enable communication with a controller of the video equipment. Such a control device could be implemented in conjunction with a video equipment pedestal that also includes a base and an equipment support. The control device could be used to drive motion of the video equipment pedestal based on readings by the sensors. A user input device could be provided to control one or more of virtual mass, virtual friction, enabling and disabling of driving motion, and/or enabling and disabling of motion relative to any one or more of multiple axes.