Hybrid human/robot coordinated joint motion control architecture for application in unstructured environments involving iterative or repetitive tasks

Case ID:
UNR02-015
Description:

Robotics used in the manufacturing industry cannot be aptly applied in machinery operations that require complex operations and variable tasks or a changing environment that is unstructured and requires on-going adjustment.

University of Nevada, Reno's Coordinated Joint Motion Control (JMC) architecture allows for artificial intelligence enhanced computerized control of a variety of machines from small robotics to heavy equipment such as large excavators. Using the novel JMC architecture, the human operator retains the master control of the main motion parameters, while the computer coordinates the repetitive/iterative movement. The operator can make adjustments to the motion in real time, as needed, to accommodate rapidly-changing environmental conditions.

The JMC architecture also includes error correction mechanisms to compensate for the mechanical inefficiencies that may arise from imperfect mechanical sensors, actuators and controls in hydraulics and articulated heavy machinery. These mechanisms effectively map the digital domain to the real world application.

The JMC architecture supports joint-link hydraulic controls, electrical robotic manipulators or even virtually controlled devices. It can be used with electrical, hydraulic or pneumatically powered machinery.

The architecture improves loading efficiency and cycle times reducing energy requirements. Unburdening repetitive tasks from the human operator helps reduce fatigue and improves safety. Ease of use of the equipment is improved and as a result operator training and learning time is reduced. A working prototype has been developed using a Bobcat 435 excavator. Preliminary field trials have shown:

17% reduction in the number of bucket loads
26% reduction in fuel consumption
39% reduction in loading time

Potential Applications

  • Material processing, Earthmoving and Mining
  • Loading and Packing
  • Construction

Opportunity

 Available for non-exclusive or exclusive licensing. UNR is seeking expressions of interest from parties interested in collaborative research to further develop, evaluate, or commercialize this technology.

IP Status

UNR ID#: UNR02-015
Coordinated Joint Motion Control System
US Patent #s: 7,457,698; 8,145,355
Coordinated joint motion control system with position error correction
US Patent: 8,065,060
Control method and system for hydraulic machines employing a dynamic joint motion model
US Patent: 8,065,037

Patent Information:
For Information, Contact:
Shannon Sheehan
Manager, Technology Commercialization
University of Nevada, Reno
ssheehan@unr.edu
Inventors:
George Danko
Keywords