Methods for locating and sensing the position, orientation, and contour of a work object in a robotic system
US9310482B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 6, 2013 |
| Grant date | Apr 12, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 25, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S901/09
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Methods and apparatus enable a robotic system to detect and determine the location, orientation, surface contours, and features of an object that are not otherwise accurately known in order to allow the robotic system to accurately place a pulse/echo layer thickness-gauge ultrasonic transducer gauge onto the surface of the object. The robotic system uses one or more distance measurement sensors to determine the position, orientation, local contour, and other features of the surface in relation to the robot. Another method calibrates an inaccurate distance sensor. Yet another method maintains overall system functionality in a system with multiple distance sensors in the event that one or more of the distance sensors fails. The robotic system may also determine when maintenance is required.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.