Work Robot Image-Based Autonomous Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing robots require expertise for operation and have limited flexibility, as they often need to be remotely controlled or operate based on predetermined programs, restricting their usage and maneuverability.

Innovation Solution

A work robot equipped with an image-capturing unit, storage unit, and controlling unit that captures images, stores teaching data, and autonomously operates by searching for similar images to execute corresponding actions, utilizing Case-Based Reasoning and Memory-Based Reasoning techniques for autonomous decision-making.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If the robot operates according to a predetermined program, then the operation can be automated, but the work target must be placed at a predetermined position which limits the degree of freedom

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveautomationVSAvoiddegree of freedom
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic adaptability by enabling the robot to switch between predetermined programs and image-based autonomous operation. The controlling unit dynamically selects the operational mode based on the situation, allowing the robot to adapt to varying work environments and target positions rather than being constrained to fixed positions required by predetermined programs alone.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The image-capturing unit and image processing system serve as intermediaries between the robot and the work target. By capturing images and comparing them with stored teaching data, the system mediates the positioning and operation processes, enabling the robot to locate and operate on targets at arbitrary positions without requiring predetermined positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the robot is remotely controlled by humans, then the robot can operate in dangerous locations, but the operation requires expertise and the convenience is low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to operate in dangerous locationsVSAvoidconvenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The robot performs self-service through autonomous operation based on image recognition and comparison with stored teaching data. The controlling unit automatically identifies work targets and executes operations without requiring remote human control, thereby eliminating the need for operator expertise while maintaining the ability to operate in dangerous locations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical remote control system with an image-based autonomous control system. Instead of relying on human operators to manually control the robot through mechanical or electronic interfaces, the system uses image-capturing units and pattern recognition algorithms to autonomously determine and execute operations, significantly improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If remote control or predetermined programs are used, then the robot can execute basic operations, but the usage situation is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to execute operationsVSAvoidusage situation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements multi-functionality by combining predetermined program execution with image-based autonomous operation. The robot can handle both routine tasks through predetermined programs and variable tasks through image recognition and pattern matching, making it universally applicable to diverse usage situations rather than being limited to specific pre-programmed scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary action by storing teaching data during a teaching phase before actual operation. During teaching, the robot learns the characteristics of work targets and operations through image capture and storage. This preliminary learning enables the robot to autonomously perform operations in various situations without requiring reprogramming, expanding its versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8930025B2Work robot
Publication Date: 2015.01.06 ISHIZAKI TAKEHIRO
  • US8930025B2 patent drawing
  • US8930025B2 patent drawing
  • US8930025B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A work robot for executing a work for operating an object includes a robot body for capturing an image including the object. During a teach mode, the captured image is correlated with an operation content taught by an operator and held. During a work mode, the captured image is acquired, an image similar to the acquired image is searched, and the object is operated according to the operation content correlated with the image captured in the past which has been found as a result of the search.