Adaptive Teleoperation Systems for Niche Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A teleoperated system designed for specific, high-demand environments, including disaster relief, high-security, search and rescue, extreme temperatures, and underwater operations, providing enhanced adaptability and performance in these unique settings.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent for master/slave registration and control for teleoperation addresses general teleoperated systems. However, these systems may not be suitable for specialized environments, such as disaster relief, high-security, or extreme weather conditions, where specific adaptations are necessary to ensure effective operation. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by providing tailored solutions for these niche environments.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The adaptive teleoperation system comprises a ruggedized input device, an encrypted input device, an input device adapted for low-light conditions, a thermally-insulated input device, or a waterproof input device, depending on the specific environment. The control system, comprising one or more processors and a memory, performs operations including determining the orientation of an end-effector reference frame relative to a field-of-view reference frame. This enables the system to adapt to the unique demands of each environment, ensuring precise control and effective operation.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept introduces novel adaptations to the original teleoperated system, including ruggedization, encryption, low-light adaptation, thermal insulation, and waterproofing, which are not obvious from the original patent. These adaptations provide a significant improvement in performance and adaptability in specialized environments.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include additional adaptations, such as shock-resistance, electromagnetic interference protection, or specialized sensors, to further enhance the system's performance in specific environments. Variations may also include different types of input devices, such as gesture-based or voice-controlled interfaces, to accommodate diverse user needs.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The adaptive teleoperation system has significant commercial potential in various industries, including disaster relief, defense, search and rescue, oil and gas, and underwater exploration. The system's ability to adapt to unique environments enables it to address specific market needs, providing a competitive advantage in these niches.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Teleoperation systems, robotics, and human-machine interfaces, with expertise in control systems, reference frame alignment, and input device design for specialized operational environments
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
An engineer with advanced degrees in robotics, mechanical engineering, or computer science, experienced in designing control systems for remote operation, familiar with sensor integration, reference frame transformations, and adaptable input device technologies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the source patent's fundamental teleoperation control system provides a clear technical foundation for environmental adaptations. The core orientation determination method remains consistent across the PTD variations, with modifications to the input device being straightforward design choices for specific operational contexts. The systematic approach to reference frame alignment enables predictable extensions to different environmental requirements.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,280 |
|---|---|
| Title | Master/slave registration and control for teleoperation |
| Assignee(s) | INTUITIVE SURGICAL OPERATIONS, INC. |