Sensor-based safety features for robotic equipment
US9740193B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 8, 2014 |
| Grant date | Aug 22, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 17, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG05B2219/40339
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Technologies are generally described for sensor-based safety features for robotic equipment, and the implementation thereof. One or more sensors may be positioned relative to the robotic equipment such that the sensors may capture light from at least a portion of an environment surrounding the robotic equipment. In some examples, the sensors may be integrated with the robotic equipment and/or may be configured to rotate. An analysis module coupled to the sensors may build a model image of the environment based on the light captured by the sensors. The analysis module may detect that an unintended object is approaching the robotic equipment in response to detecting a change in the model image, and based on a proximity and/or a speed of approach of the object to the robotic equipment, the analysis module may instruct the robotic equipment to reduce an operating speed and/or stop motion of the robotic equipment.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.