A robotic baggage handlings system is disclosed. The system receives data from one or more sensors and uses sensor data received from the one or more sensors to generate a three-dimensional view of a baggage handling workspace to generate and implement a plan to use one or more robotic arms to pick and place baggage items as needed to do one or both of (1) load baggage items from a first baggage conveyor into or onto a trolley, Unit Load Device (ULD), or other container; and (2) remove baggage items from a trolley, Unit Load Device (ULD), or other container and place each on a second baggage conveyor.
A robotic merge induction system is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of robotic induction stations, each comprising one or more robots, each robot being configured to pick items from a pick area associated with the station with which the robot is associated and place each item in a placement location on a robotically controlled injection conveyance structure associated with the station; and a processor configured to control the robotically controlled injection conveyance structure to inject each item placed on the robotically controlled injection conveyance structure onto a downstream conveyance structure that is common to the plurality of robotic induction stations.
B65G 47/68 - Devices for transferring articles or materials between conveyors, i.e. discharging or feeding devices adapted to receive articles arriving in one layer from one conveyor and to transfer them in individual layers to more than one conveyor, or vice versa, e.g. combining the flows of articles conveyed by more than one conveyor
B07C 1/04 - Forming a stream from a bulkControlling the stream, e.g. spacing the articles
A suction and edge or other grasping combination gripper is disclosed. In various embodiments, the combination gripper is configured to be mounted on a robotic arm and includes a first set of elements configured to grasp an item by applying suction to a surface of the item and a second set of elements comprising a set of digits configured to engage mechanically a graspable structure or feature of the item.
B66C 1/10 - Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting, lowering, or hauling gear of cranes, or adapted for connection therewith for transmitting forces to articles or groups of articles by mechanical means
G05B 19/18 - Numerical control [NC], i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form
B25J 15/06 - Gripping heads with vacuum or magnetic holding means
4.
FRAMEWORK FOR TESTING AND CHARACTERIZING 3D CAMERAS IN WAREHOUSE LOGISTICS
Techniques are disclosed to test and characterize three-dimensional cameras for use with robotic systems to perform warehouse logistics tasks. Image data generated by a camera is received via a communication interface. A first set of image data is used to perform camera sensor testing to generate a set of base capabilities for the camera. Camera characterization processing is performed with respect to the camera, based at least in part on the set of base capabilities. One or more of the following are determined based at least in part on the camera characterization processing: one or more optimal camera settings; an optimal camera placement; and an optimal image processing algorithm parameter.
A functional safety system for robots is disclosed. In various embodiments, sensor data is received from one or more sensors. The sensor data is used to detect, in or near a workspace in which a robot with which the robotic safety system is associated is located, an actor or instrumentality that poses a potential safety risk to one or both of the robot and the detected actor or instrumentality. A safety posture of the robotic safety system with respect to the robot is adapted to an extent needed to ensure the continued safety of both the robot and the detected actor or instrumentality. The adapted safety posture takes into account one or more of a task of the robot and a position and velocity of the actor or instrumentality relative to the robot.
F16P 3/00 - Safety devices acting in conjunction with the control or operation of a machineControl arrangements requiring the simultaneous use of two or more parts of the body
An overload adaptive robotic system is disclosed. In various embodiments, the system includes a robotic arm comprising one or more links, one or more joints, and an end effector positioned at a distal free moving end of the robotic arm; and a processor configured to: make and begin to implement a plan to grasp an item, move the item through a planned trajectory, and place the item at a destination; detect an overload condition affecting a joint include in the one or more joints; and adapt the plan in response to detecting the overload condition.
A robotic system is disclosed to control multiple robots to cooperatively load/unload a truck or other container. In various embodiments, image data is received and used to control a first robotic arm and a second robotic arm to load or unload objects into or from the truck or other container, including by loading or unloading one or more of the objects using the first robotic arm and the second robotic arm together to cooperatively to grasp and move each of one or more of the objects along a corresponding trajectory.
The present application discloses a system, a method, and a computer system for moving items deemed to be too heavy to be picked up by a robotic arm. The method includes (i) receiving sensor data from one or more sensors associated with a source conveyor configured to convey items to a pick location, (ii) determining, based at least in part on the sensor data, that an item that is too heavy to be lifted by a robotic arm controlled by the one or more processors has entered the source conveyor, and (iii) providing an output indicating that the item too heavy to be lifted by the robotic arm has been detected.
A robot is operated in an autonomous mode of operation to perform a plurality of tasks. It is determined that a later task of the plurality of tasks needs human assistance while performing a current task of the plurality of tasks. The human assistance is scheduled for the later task. A teleoperator is communicated with to perform the human assistance associated with the later task.
A robotic baggage handlings system is disclosed. The system receives data from one or more sensors and uses sensor data received from the one or more sensors to generate a three-dimensional view of a baggage handling workspace to generate and implement a plan to use one or more robotic arms to pick and place baggage items as needed to do one or both of (1) load baggage items from a first baggage conveyor into or onto a trolley, Unit Load Device (ULD), or other container; and (2) remove baggage items from a trolley, Unit Load Device (ULD), or other container and place each on a second baggage conveyor.
Techniques are disclosed to use robotic system simulation to control a robotic system. In various embodiments, a communication indicating an action to be performed by a robotic element is received from a robotic control system. Performance of the action by the robotic element is simulated. A state tracking data is updated to reflect a virtual change to one or more state variables as a result of simulated performance of the action. Successful completion of the action by the robotic element is reported to the robotic control system.
A robotic system is disclosed. The system includes a communication interface, and one or more processors coupled to the communication interface and configured to: generate based at least in part on the received data a plan to stack the items on or in the destination location. For each item, the generating the plan includes determining the destination location based at least in part on a characteristic associated with the item, and at least one of (i) a characteristic of a platform or receptacle on which one or more items are to be stacked, and (ii) an existing stack of one or more items on the platform or receptacle. The destination location is determined from among a plurality of zones in which platforms or receptacles are disposed, and each of the plurality of zones are within a range of a robotic arm. A robotic arm is controlled to implement the plan.
An overload adaptive robotic system is disclosed. In various embodiments, the system includes a robotic arm comprising one or more links, one or more joints, and an end effector positioned at a distal free moving end of the robotic arm; and a processor configured to: make and begin to implement a plan to grasp an item, move the item through a planned trajectory, and place the item at a destination; detect an overload condition affecting a joint included in the one or more joints; and adapt the plan in response to detecting the overload condition.
B25J 19/00 - Accessories fitted to manipulators, e.g. for monitoring, for viewingSafety devices combined with or specially adapted for use in connection with manipulators
A universal gripper system is disclosed. In various embodiments, the gripper system includes a hub body; a mounting structure configured to enable the hub body to be connected to the distal end of a robotic arm; a palm interface configured to removably mechanically couple to the hub body an interchangeable palm or tool; and a resource supply structure configured to supply a resource to the interchangeable palm or tool.
B25J 15/04 - Gripping heads with provision for the remote detachment or exchange of the head or parts thereof
B25J 15/06 - Gripping heads with vacuum or magnetic holding means
B25J 19/00 - Accessories fitted to manipulators, e.g. for monitoring, for viewingSafety devices combined with or specially adapted for use in connection with manipulators
A distributed robot controller is disclosed, comprising a plurality of local controllers, each associated with a corresponding motor included in a plurality of motors comprising a robot; and a robot level controller coupled communicatively with each of the local controllers and configured to determine a plan to operate the plurality of motors to cause the robot to perform a task and send to each of the local controllers included in the plurality of local controllers at least a set of one or more torques associated with the motor with which that local controller is associated.
B25J 5/00 - Manipulators mounted on wheels or on carriages
B25J 13/08 - Controls for manipulators by means of sensing devices, e.g. viewing or touching devices
H02P 5/68 - Arrangements specially adapted for regulating or controlling the speed or torque of two or more electric motors controlling two or more DC dynamo-electric motors
A distributed robot controller is disclosed, comprising a plurality of local controllers, each associated with a corresponding motor included in a plurality of motors comprising a robot; and a robot level controller coupled communicatively with each of the local controllers and configured to determine a plan to operate the plurality of motors to cause the robot to perform a task and send to each of the local controllers included in the plurality of local controllers at least a set of one or more torques associated with the motor with which that local controller is associated.
An extensible robotic system is disclosed. In various embodiments, the system includes a plurality of robotically controlled elements and a processor coupled to a robotically controlled element included in the plurality of robotically controlled elements and configured to control operation of the robotically controlled element to which it is coupled via communications sent via a standard interface implemented across said plurality of robotically controlled elements and to communicate with the robotic system via a communication interface using a communication protocol associated with the robotic system.
An integrated robotic controller is disclosed which includes a communication interface configured to provide connectivity to a set of elements comprising a robotic system and a processor coupled to the communication interface and configured to: receive state information via the communication interface from or more elements included in the set of elements; make based at least in part on the state information a decision as to how to control one or more elements included in the set of elements; and send to each of the one or more elements, via the communication interface, a command determined based on at least in part on the decision.
A universal gripper system is disclosed. In various embodiments, the gripper system includes a hub body; a mounting structure configured to enable the hub body to be connected to the distal end of a robotic arm; a palm interface configured to removably mechanically couple to the hub body an interchangeable palm or tool; and a resource supply structure configured to supply a resource to the interchangeable palm or tool.
An extensible robotic system is disclosed. In various embodiments, the system includes a plurality of robotically controlled elements and a processor coupled to a robotically controlled element included in the plurality of robotically controlled elements and configured to control operation of the robotically controlled element to which it is coupled via communications sent via a standard interface implemented across said plurality of robotically controlled elements and to communicate with the robotic system via a communication interface using a communication protocol associated with the robotic system.
An integrated robotic controller is disclosed which includes a communication interface configured to provide connectivity to a set of elements comprising a robotic system and a processor coupled to the communication interface and configured to: receive state information via the communication interface from or more elements included in the set of elements; make based at least in part on the state information a decision as to how to control one or more elements included in the set of elements; and send to each of the one or more elements, via the communication interface, a command determined based on at least in part on the decision.
A robotic structure having a robotic arm is autonomously operated to pick an item using an end effector of the robotic arm along a predetermined path from a source location to a destination location. A number of identifiers for the item are known in advance. The picked item is moved by the end effector in a manner that improves a likelihood that at least one identifier on the picked item is obtained by one or more sensors. A number of obtained identifiers associated with the picked item is compared to a number of expected identifiers. The robotic structure is autonomously operated to place the item at the destination location based at least in part on the comparison.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
A robotic singulation system is disclosed. In various embodiments, sensor data including data associated with an item present in a workspace is received. The sensor data is used to determine and implement a plan to autonomously operate a robotic structure to move and place the item singly in a corresponding location in a singulation conveyance structure. The plan takes into consideration an attribute of the item determined based at least in part on the sensor data.
A robotic unloader/loader system is disclosed. The system includes a first robot configured to autonomously approach and enter a truck or other container and unload items from the truck or other container by placing each item on an outbound conveyor or other material handling equipment; and a set of one or more additional robots configured to work outside the truck or other container, including by picking items from the conveyor or other material handling equipment, from a position to which the items have been conveyed by the conveyor or other material handling equipment, and placing each item in a corresponding one of a plurality of destination locations.
G06Q 10/087 - Inventory or stock management, e.g. order filling, procurement or balancing against orders
B25J 5/00 - Manipulators mounted on wheels or on carriages
G05B 13/00 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion
A multi-purpose robotic platform is disclosed. In various embodiments, the robotic platform includes a memory configured to store configuration information for each of a plurality of robotic applications; and a processor coupled to the memory and configured to: receive an indication to perform tasks associated with a selected one of the plurality of robotic applications; use the stored configuration information to determine one or both of a required software configuration and a required hardware configuration associated with the selected robotic application; update one or both of a current software configuration and a current hardware configuration of the robotic system as needed to match the required software configuration and the required hardware configuration; and use the updated software configuration and the updated hardware configuration to autonomously perform tasks associated with the selected robotic application.
A mobile logistics robot is disclosed. The robot includes a mobile chassis having a plurality of independently controllable drive elements; one or more robotic arms mounted on the mobile chassis; and a processor configured to control the one or more robotic arms and the plurality of independently controllable drive elements as needed to pick items from a set of one or more source locations and place each item in a corresponding destination location included in a set of one or more destination locations, including by using the independently controllable drive elements to move the mobile chassis within a space bounded at least in part by the one or more source locations and the one or more destination locations.
G05B 13/00 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion
A mobile logistics robot is disclosed. The robot includes a mobile chassis having a plurality of independently controllable drive elements; one or more robotic arms mounted on the mobile chassis; and a processor configured to control the one or more robotic arms and the plurality of independently controllable drive elements as needed to pick items from a set of one or more source locations and place each item in a corresponding destination location included in a set of one or more destination locations, including by using the independently controllable drive elements to move the mobile chassis within a space bounded at least in part by the one or more source locations and the one or more destination locations.
A multi-purpose robotic platform is disclosed. In various embodiments, the robotic platform includes a memory configured to store configuration information for each of a plurality of robotic applications; and a processor coupled to the memory and configured to: receive an indication to perform tasks associated with a selected one of the plurality of robotic applications; use the stored configuration information to determine one or both of a required software configuration and a required hardware configuration associated with the selected robotic application; update one or both of a current software configuration and a current hardware configuration of the robotic system as needed to match the required software configuration and the required hardware configuration; and use the updated software configuration and the updated hardware configuration to autonomously perform tasks associated with the selected robotic application.
A robotic unloader/loader system is disclosed. The system includes a first robot configured to autonomously approach and enter a truck or other container and unload items from the truck or other container by placing each item on an outbound conveyor or other material handling equipment; and a set of one or more additional robots configured to work outside the truck or other container, including by picking items from the conveyor or other material handling equipment, from a position to which the items have been conveyed by the conveyor or other material handling equipment, and placing each item in a corresponding one of a plurality of destination locations.
A multicamera image processing system is disclosed. In various embodiments, image data is received from each of a plurality of sensors associated with a workspace, the image data comprising for each sensor in the plurality of sensors one or both of visual image information and depth information. Image data from the plurality of sensors is merged to generate a merged point cloud data. Segmentation is performed based on visual image data from at least a subset of the sensors in the plurality of sensors to generate a segmentation result. One or both of the merged point cloud data and the segmentation result is/are used to generate a merged three dimensional and segmented view of the workspace.
A robotic system is disclosed. The system includes a communication interface that receives, from a sensor(s) deployed in a workspace, sensor data indicative of a current state of the workspace, the workspace comprising a pallet or other receptacle and a plurality of items stacked on or in the receptacle. The system includes one or more processors that control a robotic arm to place a first set of items on or in, or remove the first set of items from, the pallet or other receptacle, update a geometric model based on the first set of items placed on or in a receptacle, use the geometric model in combination with the sensor data to estimate a stack of one or more items on or in the receptacle, and use the estimated state to generate or update a plan to control the robotic arm to place a second set of items.
A system includes an actuator, a plurality of sensors, and a processor. The actuator is configured to move a surface or receptacle to a position associated with item retrieval. The plurality of sensors are configured to monitor one or more pickup zones. The processor is coupled to the actuator and configured to provide a control signal to the actuator. The control signal increases or decreases a speed at which items are provided to the one or more pickup zones based on an output from the plurality of sensors.
B65B 5/12 - Introducing successive articles, e.g. confectionery products, of different shape or size in predetermined positions
B65B 35/54 - Feeding articles along multiple paths to a single packaging position
B65B 43/52 - Feeding or positioning bags, boxes, or cartons in the distended, opened, or set-up stateFeeding preformed rigid containers, e.g. tins, capsules, glass tubes, glasses, to the packaging positionLocating containers or receptacles at the filling positionSupporting containers or receptacles during the filling operation using roller-ways or endless conveyors
B65B 43/54 - Means for supporting containers or receptacles during the filling operation
B65B 57/14 - Automatic control, checking, warning or safety devices responsive to absence, presence, abnormal feed, or misplacement of articles or materials to be packaged and operating to control, or stop, the feed of articles or material to be packaged
33.
ROBOTIC PALLETIZATION SYSTEM WITH VARIABLE CONVEYOR HEIGHT
A robotic palletization/depalletization system is disclosed. In various embodiments, data associated with a plurality of items to be stacked on or in a destination location is received, and a plan to stack the items on or in the destination location is generated based at least in part on the received data. The generating the plan includes determining a source location from which to pick the item based at least in part on (i) an attribute of the source location, and (ii) a state of a platform or receptacle on which one or more items are to be stacked.
A robotic system is disclosed which includes a robotic arm comprising a base and a set of serially connected links and joints connected to the base; an enabler joint assembly comprising a mounting location at which the base of the robotic arm is mounted and having a rotational axis, offset from the mounting location, about which the enabler joint assembly is configured to rotate the mounting location; and a processor configured to control the robotic arm and the enabler joint assembly, including by using the enabler joint assembly to position the robotic arm to operate within an extended operating space defined by a reach of the robotic arm as extended by the enabler joint assembly.
A manifest or other data indicating a high-level objective to move a plurality of items from a source location to a destination location is received. The manifest or other data is utilized to generate a plan to pick and place the plurality of items from the source location to the destination location in a particular order and manner. A first item of the plurality of items is moved to a first location at the destination location as indicated by the manifest or other data using a robotic arm having an end effector. Force sensor information generated by a force sensor is received. The force sensor information is used to align a structure comprising the first item with an opening associated with the first location. The first item is inserted into the opening associated with the first location.
A robotic system with autonomous gripper selection is disclosed. Sensor data is received from a sensor in a workspace. The sensor data is used to determine an end effector to be used to perform a task with respect to an object in the workspace. The determined end effector is autonomously mounted on a free moving end of a robotic arm comprising the robotic system, and the robotic arm and end effector are used to perform the task with respect to the object.
B25J 19/00 - Accessories fitted to manipulators, e.g. for monitoring, for viewingSafety devices combined with or specially adapted for use in connection with manipulators
A robotic system is disclosed. The system includes a memory that stores for each of a plurality of items a set of attribute values. The system includes a processor(s) that uses the attribute values to simulate the placement of items, including by determining, iteratively, for each next item a placement location at which to place the item on a simulated stack of items on the pallet, using the attribute values and a geometric model of where items have been simulated to have been placed to estimate a state of the stack after each of a subset of simulated placements, and using the estimated state to inform a next placement decision. The steps of determining for each next item a placement location and estimating the state of the stack until all of at least a subset of the plurality of items have been simulated as having been placed on the stack.
A robotic system with autonomous gripper selection is disclosed. Sensor data is received from a sensor in a workspace. The sensor data is used to determine an end effector to be used to perform a task with respect to an object in the workspace. The determined end effector is autonomously mounted on a free moving end of a robotic arm comprising the robotic system, and the robotic arm and end effector are used to perform the task with respect to the object.
A robotic loading/unloading system is disclosed. In various embodiments, sensor data is received via a communication interface. The sensor data is used to determine a position and orientation of an extendable conveyor relative to a robotic loader comprising one or more robotic arms mounted on a robotically controlled rover. The determined position and orientation of the extendable conveyor relative to the robotic loader are used to control one or both of the extendable conveyor and the robotic loader to place the extendable conveyor and robotic loader to position a distal end of the extendable conveyor within reach of the one or more robotic arms at a location within a work area from which one or more pick or placement locations within the work area are within reach of at least one of the one or more robotic arms.
B65G 67/08 - Loading land vehicles using endless conveyors
B65G 43/02 - Control devices, e.g. for safety, warning or fault-correcting detecting dangerous physical condition of load- carriers, e.g. for interrupting the drive in the event of overheating
B65G 65/02 - Loading or unloading machines comprising essentially a conveyor for moving the loads associated with a device for picking-up the loads
A robotic system to control multiple robots to perform a task cooperatively is disclosed. A first robot determines to perform a task cooperatively with a second robot, moves independently to a first grasp position to grasp an object associated with the task, receives an indication that the second robot is prepared to perform the task cooperatively, and moves the object independently of the second robot in a leader mode along a trajectory determined by the first robot. The second robot assists the first robot in performing the task cooperatively, at least in part by moving independently to a second grasp position, grasping the object, and cooperating with the first robot to move the object, at least in part by operating in a follower mode of operation to maintain engagement with the object as the first robot moves the object along the trajectory.
The present application discloses a system, a method, and a computer system for detecting objects that require special handling. The method includes (i) receiving image data from one or more cameras associated with a source conveyor configured to convey items to a pick location, (ii) determining, based at least in part on the image data, that an item requiring special handling has entered the source conveyor, and (iii) providing an output indicating that the item requiring special handling has been detected.
A robotic end effector is disclosed. The end effector is configured to grasp, move, and place one or more objects without assistance from another robot. The end effector includes a lateral member configured to be attached to a robotic arm at a central portion of the lateral member, a passive side member fixedly mounted to the lateral member at a first distal end and configured to engage mechanically with a first recess on a first side of an object to be grasped, and an active side member hinged to the lateral member at a second distal end opposite the first distal end and configured to engage mechanically with a second recess on a second side of the object to be grasped, the second side being opposite the first side of the object to be grasped. The passive side member and the active side member each include a structure, and the structure on the passive side member and the active side member have different profiles.
A robotic line kitting system is disclosed. In various embodiments, a sensor reading associated with a force sensor associated with a robotic instrumentality comprising the robotic line kitting system is received. It is determined based at least in part on the sensor reading that a condition requiring human intervention has been detected. A task to be performed by a human worker to correct the condition is scheduled.
A robot configured to use a gripper to grasp one or more tools is disclosed. In various embodiments, the robot comprises a robotic arm having a gripper disposed at a free moving end of the robotic arm, and a set of two or more tools configured to grasped or otherwise engaged by the gripper. Each tool in the set of two or more tools may be disposed in a corresponding tool holder, optionally attached to the robot or situated near the robot. The robot is configured to use the gripper to retrieve a selected tool from its tool holder to perform a task; use the tool to perform the task; and return the tool to its tool holder.
A robotic singulation system is disclosed. In various embodiments, sensor data including image data associated with a workspace is received. The sensor data is used to generate a three dimensional view of at least a portion of the workspace, the three dimensional view including boundaries of a plurality of items present in the workspace. The three dimensional view as generated at successive points in time is used to model a flow of at least a subset of said plurality of items through at least a portion of the workspace. The model is used to determine and implement a plan to autonomously operate a robotic structure to pick one or more items from the workplace and place each item singly in a corresponding location in a singulation conveyance structure.
Performing a “cold start” of a robotic stacking operation is disclosed. In various embodiments, estimated state information representing an estimated state of one or both of a receptacle and one or more objects stacked on or in the receptacle is stored. An indication is received that the estimated state information is not suitable to make a next placement decision with respect to a next object to be stacked on or in the receptacle. Constructed estimated state information is generated at least in part by processing sensor information generated by one or more sensors positioned and configured to generate sensor information providing an at least partial view of one or both of the receptacle and the one or more objects stacked on or in the receptacle.
Use of hardware-accelerated raytracing for intelligent robot task execution is disclosed. In various embodiments, data comprising a geometric representation of a robot and one or more obstacles in a workspace in which the robot is located are used to determine, with respect to a pose of the robot in the workspace, whether the pose is associated with a collision condition with respect to one or more of the one or more obstacles, at least in part by performing hardware accelerated ray tracing with respect to rays originating from each of a plurality of points associated with the robot.
A velocity control-based robotic system is disclosed. In various embodiments, sensor data is received from one or more sensors deployed in a physical space in which a robot is located. A processor is used to determine based at least in part on the sensor data an at least partly velocity-based trajectory along which to move an element comprising the robot. A command to implement the velocity-based trajectory is sent to the robot.
A robotic system to load or unload pallets or other receptacles is disclosed. Image data is received and used to identify an item associated with a topmost receptacle in a stack of one or more stackable receptacles. A robotic arm is controlled to perform a pick and place operation on the item with respect to the topmost receptacle in the stack of one or more stackable receptacles. Successive iterations of identifying, picking, and placing items are performed until a stop condition is determined to have been met, the stop condition including one or more of determining no further items remain to be processed and determining that the stack of one or more stackable receptacles includes a maximum permitted number of stackable receptacles.
A robotic singulation system is disclosed. In various embodiments, sensor data image data associated with a plurality of items present in a workspace is received. The sensor data is used to determine and implement a plan to autonomously operate a robotic structure to pick one or more items from the workspace and place each item singly in a corresponding location in a singulation conveyance structure. The plan includes performing an active measure to change or adapt to a detected state or condition associated with one or more items in the workspace.
A robotic system to load or unload pallets or other receptacles is disclosed. Image data is received and used to identify an item associated with a topmost receptacle in a stack of one or more stackable receptacles. A robotic arm is controlled to perform a pick and place operation on the item with respect to the topmost receptacle in the stack of one or more stackable receptacles. Successive iterations of identifying, picking, and placing items are performed until a stop condition is determined to have been met, the stop condition including one or more of determining no further items remain to be processed and determining that the stack of one or more stackable receptacles includes a maximum permitted number of stackable receptacles.
A robotic system configured to detect a target feature and place an item at an orientation determined based at least in part on the location of the target feature on the item is disclosed. In various embodiments, sensor data from a sensor in a workspace is received via a communication interface. The sensor data is used to determine the location of a target feature on an item. The determined location is used to generate and implement a plan to use a robotic arm to place the item at a destination location at an orientation determined based at least in part on the determined location of the target feature on the item.
B65G 47/244 - Devices influencing the relative position or the attitude of articles during transit by conveyors orientating the articles by turning them about an axis substantially perpendicular to the conveying plane
The present application discloses a system, a method, and a computer system for correlating information to facilitate automated sortation. The method includes (i) receiving, by one or more processors, a first optical sensor data comprising a first element of routing data required to route an item but not a second element of routing data required, in addition to the first element, to route the item, (ii) obtaining the second element of routing data from a second optical sensor data, and (iii) causing the item to be routed based at least in part on the first element of routing data and the second element of routing data.
B07C 5/36 - Sorting apparatus characterised by the means used for distribution
B07C 3/08 - Apparatus characterised by the means used for distribution using arrangements of conveyors
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
Data associated with a plurality of items to be stacked on or in a destination location is received. The data associated with the plurality of items enables a first attribute associated with a first item of the plurality of items to be identified. A plan to stack the items on or in the destination location is generated based at least in part on the received data. The plan includes with respect to the first item a plan, determined based at least in part on the first attribute, to place the first item in a stackable container along with one or more other items and to place the stackable container, once filled, in a corresponding location on or in the destination location. The plan is implemented at least in part by controlling a robotic arm to pick up the items and stack them on or in the destination location according to the plan.
A robot is operated in an autonomous mode of operation to perform a plurality of tasks. It is determined that a later task of the plurality of tasks needs human assistance while performing a current task of the plurality of tasks. The human assistance is scheduled for the later task. A teleoperator is communicated with to perform the human assistance associated with the later task.
A robotic system is disclosed. The system includes a robotically-controlled equipment comprising a laser or other projector. An indication is received of an issue to be resolved by an intervening worker with respect to a target object. The robotically-controlled equipment is positioned to direct a projection emitted by the projector onto the target object.
A robotic system is disclosed. In various embodiments, sensor data is received. A plan is determined, based at least in part on the received sensor data, to use a robotic arm to build a stack of items comprising a plurality of items, the plan including with respect to at least a subset of the items a plan to move the item to an initial position on the stack and then reposition and use the robotic arm to pack the item more snugly against an adjacent surface. The plan is implemented at least in part by sending one or more commands to a robotic arm.
A robotic system includes a robotic arm that includes a first joint that connects a first segment to a second segment, the first segment being connected at an end of the first segment opposite the first joint to a shoulder joint of the robotic arm and the second segment being connected at an end of the second segment opposite the first joint to an elbow joint of the robotic arm; and a processor coupled to the robotic arm and configured to receive an end effector trajectory and determine a motion plan to move the end effector through the end effector trajectory, including by using the first joint to vary the distance between the shoulder joint and the elbow joint, as and if needed, to realize the end effector trajectory while using the joints and links other than the first joint in a preferred pose.
A robotic system includes a robotic arm that includes a first joint that connects a first segment to a second segment, the first segment being connected at an end of the first segment opposite the first joint to a shoulder joint of the robotic arm and the second segment being connected at an end of the second segment opposite the first joint to an elbow joint of the robotic arm; and a processor coupled to the robotic arm and configured to receive an end effector trajectory and determine a motion plan to move the end effector through the end effector trajectory, including by using the first joint to vary the distance between the shoulder joint and the elbow joint, as and if needed, to realize the end effector trajectory while using the joints and links other than the first joint in a preferred pose.
G05B 19/19 - Numerical control [NC], i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form characterised by positioning or contouring control systems, e.g. to control position from one programmed point to another or to control movement along a programmed continuous path
Techniques are disclosed to calibrate a camera for use with one or more robots to perform a robotic application. In various embodiments, selection of a camera to be calibrated is received via a user interface. A region of interest associated with the camera and a robot with which the camera is associated is determined. A set of sample points within the region of interest is selected. The robot is moved through a set of trajectories to position the robot, successively with respect to each of at least a subset of the sample points, in a predetermined pose at a location associated with the sample point and, at each location cause the camera to generate a corresponding image that includes at least a fiducial marker located on the robot. The respective predetermined poses and corresponding images are used to perform a set of calibration computations with respect to the camera.
A robotic system receives from a first agent included in a plurality of robotically controlled agents a request to be provided a motion plan to perform a first pick and place task assigned to the first agent. A first motion plan is determined for the first agent, including by taking into consideration a second motion plan associated with a second agent included in the plurality of robotically controlled agents to perform a second pick and place task assigned to the second agent, at least in part by considering a swept volume associated with at least a remaining uncompleted portion of the second motion plan as an obstacle with which the first agent will not collide while implementing the first motion plan.
A robotic system receives from a first agent included in a plurality of robotically controlled agents a request to be provided a motion plan to perform a first pick and place task assigned to the first agent. A first motion plan is determined for the first agent, including by taking into consideration a second motion plan associated with a second agent included in the plurality of robotically controlled agents to perform a second pick and place task assigned to the second agent, at least in part by considering a swept volume associated with at least a remaining uncompleted portion of the second motion plan as an obstacle with which the first agent will not collide while implementing the first motion plan.
A robotic system, method, and device for controlling operation of a robot is disclosed. The robotic system includes (i) a robot configured to move one or more items within a workspace, (ii) a sensor configured to collect sensor data with respect to the workspace, and (iii) one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to (a) determine to reset operation of the robot, (b) determine, based at least in part on the sensor data, that a human worker exited a safeguarded space within the workspace, and (c) in response to determining that the human worker exited the safeguarded space, resume operation of the robot.
F16P 3/14 - Safety devices acting in conjunction with the control or operation of a machineControl arrangements requiring the simultaneous use of two or more parts of the body with means, e.g. feelers, which in case of the presence of a body part of a person in or near the danger zone influence the control or operation of the machine the means being photocells or other devices sensitive without mechanical contact
Techniques are disclosed to use robotic system simulation to control a robotic system. In various embodiments, a communication indicating an action to be performed by a robotic element is received from a robotic control system. Performance of the action by the robotic element is simulated. A state tracking data is updated to reflect a virtual change to one or more state variables as a result of simulated performance of the action. Successful completion of the action by the robotic element is reported to the robotic control system.
A containerized robotic system is disclosed. The containerized robotic system includes a base having a first attachment area configured to securely mount a robot and a second attachment area configured to securely mount a compressor, the base further including a set of one or more channels to provide an electrical connection to supply power to the robot and the compressor, respectively, and to provide compressed air from the compressor to the robot, a detachable superstructure configured to be removably connected to the base to define an enclosed space of sufficient size to accommodate at least the robot and the compressor, and a power distribution unit secured to the base and coupled to receive electrical power as input and to provide electrical power to the robot and the compressor via the set of one or more channels.
A robotic system, method, and device for controlling operation of a robot is disclosed. The robotic system includes (i) a robot configured to move one or more items within a workspace, (ii) a sensor configured to collect sensor data with respect to the workspace, and (iii) one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to (a) determine to reset operation of the robot, (b) determine, based at least in part on the sensor data, that a human worker exited a safeguarded space within the workspace, and (c) in response to determining that the human worker exited the safeguarded space, resume operation of the robot.
A variable payload robot is disclosed. In various embodiments, a robot includes two or more joints, each actuated by an associated joint motor and each joint motor having a different capacity, the robot comprising an end effector configured to grasp an object. A processor coupled to the robot is configured to determine based at least in part on the respective capacities of at least a subset of the joint motors and a payload related attribute of the object a plan and trajectory to move the object from a source location to a destination location.
A variable payload robot is disclosed. In various embodiments, a robot includes two or more joints, each actuated by an associated joint motor and each joint motor having a different capacity, the robot comprising an end effector configured to grasp an object. A processor coupled to the robot is configured to determine based at least in part on the respective capacities of at least a subset of the joint motors and a payload related attribute of the object a plan and trajectory to move the object from a source location to a destination location.
A method and system for obtaining an identifier from an item is disclosed. The method includes autonomously operating a robotic structure having a robotic arm to pick an item using an end effector of the robotic arm along a predetermined path from a source location to a destination location according to a plan. The picked item is moved according to the plan. An active measure is determined to be performed at least in part to obtain an identifier determined to be missing based on information received via the communication interface from one or more sensors. The robotic structure is autonomously operated to place the item at the destination location based at least in part on the plan.
B65G 1/137 - Storage devices mechanical with arrangements or automatic control means for selecting which articles are to be removed
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
Data indicating a corresponding safety state information indicating an extent to which that operating zone currently is or is not available to the robotic system to perform tasks using one or more robotic instrumentalities associated with a robotic system is used, for each of a plurality of operating zones, to dynamically schedule and perform tasks associated with a higher level objective. The corresponding safety state information associated with the first operating zone indicating one of a plurality of safety states associated with a presence of a human worker in the first operating zone is received from one or more sensors associated with a first operating zone of the plurality of operating zones. Autonomous behavior of the one or more robotic instrumentalities is altered based on the one of the plurality of safety states associated with the presence of the human worker in the first operating zone indicated by the corresponding safety state information.
B65G 1/137 - Storage devices mechanical with arrangements or automatic control means for selecting which articles are to be removed
B65G 47/90 - Devices for picking-up and depositing articles or materials
B65G 61/00 - Use of pick-up or transfer devices or of manipulators for stacking or de-stacking articles not otherwise provided for
F16P 3/08 - Safety devices acting in conjunction with the control or operation of a machineControl arrangements requiring the simultaneous use of two or more parts of the body in connection with the locking of doors, covers, guards, or like members giving access to moving machine parts
F16P 3/14 - Safety devices acting in conjunction with the control or operation of a machineControl arrangements requiring the simultaneous use of two or more parts of the body with means, e.g. feelers, which in case of the presence of a body part of a person in or near the danger zone influence the control or operation of the machine the means being photocells or other devices sensitive without mechanical contact
Techniques are disclosed to calibrate a camera for use with one or more robots to perform a robotic application. In various embodiments, selection of a camera to be calibrated is received via a user interface. A region of interest associated with the camera and a robot with which the camera is associated is determined. A set of sample points within the region of interest is selected. The robot is moved through a set of trajectories to position the robot, successively with respect to each of at least a subset of the sample points, in a predetermined pose at a location associated with the sample point and, at each location cause the camera to generate a corresponding image that includes at least a fiducial marker located on the robot. The respective predetermined poses and corresponding images are used to perform a set of calibration computations with respect to the camera.
An end effector is disclosed. The end effector includes a first set of one or more suction cups of a first size having a first diameter, and a second set of one or more suction cups of a second size having a second diameter that is smaller than the first diameter. The end effector further includes a first actuation mechanism configured to apply suction to at least a subset of the first set of suction cups independently of actuation of the second set of suction cups and a second actuation mechanism configured to apply suction to at least a subset of the second set of suction cups independently of actuation of the first set of suction cups.
B65G 47/14 - Devices for feeding articles or materials to conveyors for feeding articles from disorderly-arranged article piles or from loose assemblages of articles arranging or orientating the articles by mechanical or pneumatic means during feeding
B65G 47/18 - Arrangements or applications of hoppers or chutes
B65G 47/90 - Devices for picking-up and depositing articles or materials
B65G 47/91 - Devices for picking-up and depositing articles or materials incorporating pneumatic, e.g. suction, grippers
76.
Coordinating multiple robots to meet workflow and avoid conflict
A robotic singulation system is disclosed. In various embodiments, sensor data including image data associated with a workspace is received. The sensor data is used to generate a three dimensional view of at least a portion of the workspace, the three dimensional view including boundaries of a plurality of items present in the workspace. A grasp strategy is determined for each of at least a subset of items, and for each grasp strategy a corresponding probability of grasp success is computed. The grasp strategies and corresponding probabilities of grasp success are used to determine and implement a plan to autonomously operate a robotic structure to pick one or more items from the workplace and place each item singly in a corresponding location in a singulation conveyance structure.
A robotic sorting system, method, and device is disclosed. The robotic sorting system includes a communication interface, and one or more processors coupled to the communication interface. The one or more processors are configured to (a) obtain item data via the communication interface, the item data including an indication of one or more items to be routed across a plurality of outbound stations, (b) obtain capability data for the plurality of outbound stations, the capability data indicating one or more capabilities for at least one outbound station, (c) determine a plan to route a selected item to a destination outbound station selected from among the plurality of outbound station, the plan being determined based at least in part on the item data and the capability data for the destination outbound station, and (d) cause the plan to be implemented to route the item to a particular handling path associated with the destination outbound station.
A robotic system is disclosed. The robotic system includes (i) a robotic arm positioned in a known location adjacent to a work zone with respect to which the robotic arm is configured to manipulate one or more items, (ii) one or more sensors each positioned in a corresponding fixed location relative to the work zone, and (iii) one or more processors configured to configure the robotic system to use the robotic arm to manipulate the one or more items, the robotic system being configured based at least in part on sensor data, the sensor data comprising information indicative of a relative position of the robotic arm and one or more other objects in the work zone.
A robot having seven or more degrees of freedom is disclosed. In various embodiments, the robot includes a positioning robot having m degrees of freedom and a manipulator robot having n degrees of freedom coupled to the positioning robot. The robot is configured to be operated in a first mode of operation, in which the positioning robot is controlled to position move the manipulator robot into a position to perform a task and the manipulator robot is controlled independently of the positioning robot to perform the task; and in a second mode of operation, in which at least a subset of the m degrees of freedom of the positioning robot and at least a subset of the n degrees of freedom of the manipulator robot are controlled together, by a single controller, to perform the task.
A robotic sorting system includes a communication interface, and one or more processors coupled to the communication interface. The one or more processors are configured to (a) obtain item data via the communication interface, the item data including an indication of one or more items to be routed across a plurality of outbound stations, (b) obtain capability data for the plurality of outbound stations, the capability data indicating one or more capabilities for at least one outbound station, (c) determine a plan to route a selected item to a destination outbound station selected from among the plurality of outbound station, the plan being determined based at least in part on the item data and the capability data for the destination outbound station, and (d) cause the plan to be implemented to route the item to a particular handling path associated with the destination outbound station.
G05B 19/418 - Total factory control, i.e. centrally controlling a plurality of machines, e.g. direct or distributed numerical control [DNC], flexible manufacturing systems [FMS], integrated manufacturing systems [IMS] or computer integrated manufacturing [CIM]
G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distributionInventory or stock management
A robot having seven or more degrees of freedom is disclosed. In various embodiments, the robot includes a positioning robot having m degrees of freedom and a manipulator robot having n degrees of freedom coupled to the positioning robot. The robot is configured to be operated in a first mode of operation, in which the positioning robot is controlled to position move the manipulator robot into a position to perform a task and the manipulator robot is controlled independently of the positioning robot to perform the task; and in a second mode of operation, in which at least a subset of the m degrees of freedom of the positioning robot and at least a subset of the n degrees of freedom of the manipulator robot are controlled together, by a single controller, to perform the task.
A robotic system to control multiple robots to perform a task cooperatively is disclosed. A first robot determines to perform a task cooperatively with a second robot, moves independently to a first grasp position to grasp an object associated with the task, receives an indication that the second robot is prepared to perform the task cooperatively, and moves the object independently of the second robot in a leader mode along a trajectory determined by the first robot. The second robot assists the first robot in performing the task cooperatively, at least in part by moving independently to a second grasp position, grasping the object, and cooperating with the first robot to move the object, at least in part by operating in a follower mode of operation to maintain engagement with the object as the first robot moves the object along the trajectory.
A plurality of sensors are configured to provide a corresponding output that reflects a sensed value associated with engagement of a robotic arm end effector with an item. The respective outputs of one or more sensors comprising the plurality of sensors are used to determine one or more inputs to a multi-modal model configured to provide, based at least in part on the one or more inputs, an output associated with slippage of the item within or from a grasp of the robotic arm end effector. A determination associated with slippage of the item within or from the grasp of the robotic arm end effector is made based at least in part on an output of the multi-modal model. A responsive action is taken based at least in part on the determination associated with slippage of the item within or from the grasp of the robotic arm end effector.
A set of one or more potentially graspable features for one or more objects present in a workspace area are determined based on visual data received from a plurality of cameras. For each of at least a subset of the one or more potentially graspable features one or more corresponding grasp strategies are determined to grasp the feature with a robotic arm and end effector. A score associated with a probability of a successful grasp of a corresponding feature is determined with respect to each of a least a subset of said grasp strategies. A first feature of the one or more potentially graspable features is selected to be grasped using a selected grasp strategy based at least in part on a corresponding score associated with the selected grasp strategy with respect to the first feature. The robotic arm and the end effector are controlled to attempt to grasp the first feature using the selected grasp strategy.
A modular force/torque sensor system is disclosed. In various embodiments, a sensor interface device includes a first communication interface configured to receive an analog output associated with a sensor located remotely from the sensor acquisition device; a processor configured to use the analog output associated with the sensor to generate a sequence of discrete values derived from the analog output associated with the sensor; and a second communication interface coupled to the processor and configured to send at least a subset of the sequence of discrete values derived from the analog output associated with the sensor to a control module.
G01L 5/00 - Apparatus for, or methods of, measuring force, work, mechanical power, or torque, specially adapted for specific purposes
G05B 19/41 - Numerical control [NC], i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form characterised by interpolation, e.g. the computation of intermediate points between programmed end points to define the path to be followed and the rate of travel along that path
H04W 92/10 - Interfaces between hierarchically different network devices between terminal device and access point, i.e. wireless air interface
A robotic end effector is disclosed. The robotic end effector includes (a) an end effector body having a top side and an operative side opposite the top side, (b) a pull force gripper disposed on the operative side of the end effector body, and (c) a first end effector support structure that is connected to the end effector body and extends from the end effector body in a direction that is orthogonal to the operative side of the end effector body.
A robotic end effector is disclosed. The robotic end effector includes (a) an end effector body having a top side and an operative side opposite the top side, (b) a pull force gripper disposed on the operative side of the end effector body, and (c) a first end effector support structure that is connected to the end effector body and extends from the end effector body in a direction that is orthogonal to the operative side of the end effector body.
A modular force/torque sensor system is disclosed. In various embodiments, a sensor interface device includes a first communication interface configured to receive an analog output associated with a sensor located remotely from the sensor acquisition device; a processor configured to use the analog output associated with the sensor to generate a sequence of discrete values derived from the analog output associated with the sensor; and a second communication interface coupled to the processor and configured to send at least a subset of the sequence of discrete values derived from the analog output associated with the sensor to a control module.
B25J 13/08 - Controls for manipulators by means of sensing devices, e.g. viewing or touching devices
G01L 1/22 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in ohmic resistance of solid materials or of electrically-conductive fluidsMeasuring force or stress, in general by making use of electrokinetic cells, i.e. liquid-containing cells wherein an electrical potential is produced or varied upon the application of stress using resistance strain gauges
A pull force based robotic end effector with an integrated mechanical stop is disclosed. In various embodiments, the end effector includes an end effector body having a top side and an operative side opposite the top side; a pull force gripper disposed on the operative side of the end effector body; and an integrated mechanical stop positioned on the operative side of the end effector body adjacent to the suction gripper, the mechanical stop extending from the operative side to an extent that allows the suction gripper to be operatively engaged with an object to be grasped.
A robot configured to use a gripper to grasp one or more tools is disclosed. In various embodiments, the robot comprises a robotic arm having a gripper disposed at a free moving end of the robotic arm, and a set of two or more tools configured to grasped or otherwise engaged by the gripper. Each tool in the set of two or more tools may be disposed in a corresponding tool holder, optionally attached to the robot or situated near the robot. The robot is configured to use the gripper to retrieve a selected tool from its tool holder to perform a task; use the tool to perform the task; and return the tool to its tool holder.
A robotic singulation system is disclosed. In various embodiments, sensor data including image data associated with a workspace is received. The sensor data is used to generate a three dimensional view of at least a portion of the workspace, the three dimensional view including boundaries of a plurality of items present in the workspace. The three dimensional view as generated at successive points in time is used to model a flow of at least a subset of said plurality of items through at least a portion of the workspace. The model is used to determine and implement a plan to autonomously operate a robotic structure to pick one or more items from the workplace and place each item singly in a corresponding location in a singulation conveyance structure.
A robotic system comprising a plurality of autonomously acting robots configured to cooperate with each other to perform an operation is disclosed. In various embodiments, a system as disclosed herein includes a first robot configured to determine a plurality of items required to be obtained to fulfill a first order; and a second robot configured to receive an indication to retrieve and provide to the first robot a first item included in the plurality of items; and to plan and perform a first subtask to retrieve the first item and provide the first item to the first robot.
A robotic system is disclosed comprising a communication interface and a processor coupled to the communication interface and configured to: receive via the communication interface an indication to establish a conveyance path to convey one or more items from a source location at an originating end of the conveyance path to a destination location at a terminating end of the conveyance path; determine programmatically a plan to arrange and configured one or more conveyance structures to provide the conveyance path; and invoke one or more robots to position, couple as needed, and configure as needed the one or more conveyance structures to provide the conveyance path.
A robotic system comprising a plurality of autonomously acting robots configured to cooperate with each other to perform an operation is disclosed. In various embodiments, a system as disclosed herein includes a first robot configured to determine a plurality of items required to be obtained to fulfill a first order; and a second robot configured to receive an indication to retrieve and provide to the first robot a first item included in the plurality of items; and to plan and perform a first subtask to retrieve the first item and provide the first item to the first robot.
B25J 5/00 - Manipulators mounted on wheels or on carriages
G05B 13/00 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion
96.
INTEROPERABLE ROBOTIC SYSTEM TO LOAD/UNLOAD TRUCKS AND OTHER CONTAINERS
A robotic system is disclosed comprising a communication interface and a processor coupled to the communication interface and configured to: receive via the communication interface an indication to establish a conveyance path to convey one or more items from a source location at an originating end of the conveyance path to a destination location at a terminating end of the conveyance path; determine programmatically a plan to arrange and configured one or more conveyance structures to provide the conveyance path; and invoke one or more robots to position, couple as needed, and configure as needed the one or more conveyance structures to provide the conveyance path.
G05B 19/418 - Total factory control, i.e. centrally controlling a plurality of machines, e.g. direct or distributed numerical control [DNC], flexible manufacturing systems [FMS], integrated manufacturing systems [IMS] or computer integrated manufacturing [CIM]
97.
ROBOTIC HANDLING OF SOFT PRODUCTS IN NON-RIGID PACKAGING
Techniques are disclosed to perform robotic handling of soft products in non-rigid packaging. In various embodiments, sensor data associated with a workspace is received. An action to be performed in the workspace using one or more robotic elements is determined, the action including moving an end effector of one of the robotic elements relatively quickly to a location in proximity to an item to be grasped; actuating a grasping mechanism of the end effector to grasp the item using an amount of force and structures associated with minimized risk of damage to one or both of the item and its packaging; and using sensor data generated subsequent to the item being grasped to ensure the item has been grasped securely. Control communications are sent to the robotic element via the communication interface to cause robotic element to perform the action.
A containerized robotic system is disclosed. The containerized robotic system includes a base having a first attachment area configured to securely mount a robot and a second attachment area configured to securely mount a compressor, the base further including a set of one or more channels to provide an electrical connection to supply power to the robot and the compressor, respectively, and to provide compressed air from the compressor to the robot, a detachable superstructure configured to be removably connected to the base to define an enclosed space of sufficient size to accommodate at least the robot and the compressor, and a power distribution unit secured to the base and coupled to receive electrical power as input and to provide electrical power to the robot and the compressor via the set of one or more channels.
A kitting machine is disclosed. In various embodiments, the machine includes an actuator configured to move a surface or receptacle to a position associated with item retrieval; and a controller configured to control operation of the actuator to position an item in the position associated with item retrieval, in a manner that is synchronized at least in part with operation of a robotic retrieval device configured to retrieve the item from the position associated with item retrieval.
B65B 5/08 - Packaging groups of articles, the articles being individually gripped or guided for transfer to the containers or receptacles
B65B 5/12 - Introducing successive articles, e.g. confectionery products, of different shape or size in predetermined positions
B65B 35/54 - Feeding articles along multiple paths to a single packaging position
B65B 43/52 - Feeding or positioning bags, boxes, or cartons in the distended, opened, or set-up stateFeeding preformed rigid containers, e.g. tins, capsules, glass tubes, glasses, to the packaging positionLocating containers or receptacles at the filling positionSupporting containers or receptacles during the filling operation using roller-ways or endless conveyors
B65B 43/54 - Means for supporting containers or receptacles during the filling operation
B65B 57/14 - Automatic control, checking, warning or safety devices responsive to absence, presence, abnormal feed, or misplacement of articles or materials to be packaged and operating to control, or stop, the feed of articles or material to be packaged
B65G 1/137 - Storage devices mechanical with arrangements or automatic control means for selecting which articles are to be removed
A containerized robotic system is disclosed. The containerized robotic system includes a base having a first attachment area configured to securely mount a robot and a second attachment area configured to securely mount a compressor, the base further including a set of one or more channels to provide an electrical connection to supply power to the robot and the compressor, respectively, and to provide compressed air from the compressor to the robot, a detachable superstructure configured to be removably connected to the base to define an enclosed space of sufficient size to accommodate at least the robot and the compressor, and a power distribution unit secured to the base and coupled to receive electrical power as input and to provide electrical power to the robot and the compressor via the set of one or more channels.
B65D 85/68 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for machines, engines or vehicles in assembled or dismantled form
B65G 47/90 - Devices for picking-up and depositing articles or materials
B65G 57/02 - Stacking of articles by adding to the top of the stack
G05B 19/18 - Numerical control [NC], i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form
