Visual Robot Task Configuration Using Workspace Annotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for configuring robot tasks through manual specification of waypoints are tedious and unintuitive, requiring significant experience and time, limiting the broader application of robotic automation.
Innovation Solution
A system that utilizes cameras to capture images of the robot workspace, allowing users to annotate visually and optimize waypoints through an optimization process, enabling intuitive and automated configuration of robot tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual specification of robot waypoints is used, then task configuration can be achieved, but the process becomes tedious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning and specification of robot waypoints with an automated visual system. Users annotate images of the workspace to define task parameters, and the system automatically generates optimized waypoint sequences, eliminating the need for tedious manual coordinate specification while maintaining precise robot task configuration.
2Ease of operation
If manual waypoint specification is used, then robot tasks can be configured, but technical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary optimization system that translates simple user annotations into complex robot task configurations. The system acts as a mediator between the user's high-level task description (through annotations) and the low-level detailed waypoint sequences, automatically handling the complex calculations and optimizations that would otherwise require significant technical expertise.
3Productivity
If automated waypoint optimization is implemented, then task configuration time is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses visual copies (images) of the robot workspace as the basis for task configuration. Instead of working directly with complex robot kinematics and workspace geometry, the system creates a visual representation that users can annotate, then automatically generates the corresponding waypoint sequences. This copying approach simplifies the user interface while maintaining accurate robot task specification.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates generally to robotic systems, and more specifically to systems and methods for specifying a robot task configuration by means of annotating a visual workspace representation in coordination with a waypoint optimization process. This system enables a much broader use of robotic automation by saving time and reducing technical complexity. This system can be used to configure any visually enabled robotic task, such as tasks in warehouse management, manufacturing, delivery, inspection, logistics, etc.