20240033926. METHODS FOR SELECTING A PATH OF A MULTI-COMPONENT END EFFECTOR ALONG A SURFACE, ROBOTS THAT PERFORM THE METHODS, AND STORAGE MEDIA THAT DIRECTS ROBOTS TO PERFORM simplified abstract (The Boeing Company)

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METHODS FOR SELECTING A PATH OF A MULTI-COMPONENT END EFFECTOR ALONG A SURFACE, ROBOTS THAT PERFORM THE METHODS, AND STORAGE MEDIA THAT DIRECTS ROBOTS TO PERFORM

Organization Name

The Boeing Company

Inventor(s)

Willaredt Hardy of San Francisco CA (US)

Anthony W. Baker of Gilbertsville PA (US)

METHODS FOR SELECTING A PATH OF A MULTI-COMPONENT END EFFECTOR ALONG A SURFACE, ROBOTS THAT PERFORM THE METHODS, AND STORAGE MEDIA THAT DIRECTS ROBOTS TO PERFORM - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 20240033926 titled 'METHODS FOR SELECTING A PATH OF A MULTI-COMPONENT END EFFECTOR ALONG A SURFACE, ROBOTS THAT PERFORM THE METHODS, AND STORAGE MEDIA THAT DIRECTS ROBOTS TO PERFORM

Simplified Explanation

The patent application describes methods for selecting a path of a multi-component end effector along a surface. The end effector is attached to a robot that can move it along the surface on a continuous tool centerpoint path (TCP). The end effector consists of multiple elements that can move relative to each other.

The method involves providing a discretized TCP with spaced-apart waypoints along the continuous TCP. It also includes determining a plurality of distance heuristics and updating them to define updated distance heuristics. The path of the end effector along the surface is then selected based on these updated distance heuristics.

  • The patent application describes methods for selecting a path for a multi-component end effector attached to a robot.
  • The end effector can move along a surface on a continuous tool centerpoint path.
  • The end effector consists of multiple elements that can move relative to each other.
  • The method involves providing a discretized TCP with spaced-apart waypoints.
  • Multiple distance heuristics are determined and updated to define updated distance heuristics.
  • The path of the end effector along the surface is selected based on these updated distance heuristics.

Potential applications of this technology:

  • Industrial automation: This technology can be used in manufacturing processes where robots with multi-component end effectors need to move along surfaces with precision.
  • Material handling: Robots equipped with multi-component end effectors can use this technology to efficiently and accurately move objects along surfaces.
  • Assembly line operations: This technology can be applied in assembly line operations where robots need to perform complex movements along surfaces.

Problems solved by this technology:

  • Path selection: The methods described in the patent application solve the problem of selecting the optimal path for a multi-component end effector along a surface.
  • Precision and efficiency: By using updated distance heuristics, the technology ensures that the end effector moves with precision and efficiency along the surface.

Benefits of this technology:

  • Improved productivity: The methods described in the patent application can enhance the productivity of robots by enabling them to efficiently and accurately move along surfaces.
  • Increased flexibility: Robots equipped with multi-component end effectors can perform a wider range of tasks with the ability to move along surfaces in a controlled manner.
  • Cost savings: By optimizing the path selection process, this technology can help reduce errors and minimize wasted time and resources.


Original Abstract Submitted

methods for selecting a path of a multi-component end effector along a surface, robots that perform the methods, and storage media that directs robots to perform the methods. the multi-component end effector is attached to a robot, which is configured to move the multi-component end effector along the surface on a continuous tool centerpoint path (tcp). the multi-component end effector includes a plurality of end effector elements configured to move relative to one another. the method includes providing a discretized tcp that includes a plurality of spaced-apart waypoints along the continuous tcp. the method also includes determining a plurality of distance heuristics. the method further includes updating the plurality of distance heuristics to define a plurality of updated distance heuristics. the method also includes selecting the path of the multi-component end effector along the surface based upon the plurality of updated distance heuristics.