×

Method of controlling an intelligent assist device in a plurality of distinct workspaces

  • US 6,313,595 B2
  • Filed: 01/23/2001
  • Issued: 11/06/2001
  • Est. Priority Date: 12/10/1999
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
Patent Images

1. A method of controlling a powered manipulator in a plurality of workspaces wherein the powered manipulator includes a control handle, at least one motor, and at least one force sensor, and is in combination with a processor that controls the powered manipulator, said method comprising the steps of:

  • imparting a force on the control handle;

    sensing a direction and magnitude of the force on the control handle with the force sensor and sending data indicative of the direction and the magnitude to the processor;

    processing the direction and magnitude data from the force sensor to establish movement commands for the powered manipulator;

    programming the processor to establish at least one virtual constraint in a first workspace of the plurality of workspaces for limiting movement of the powered manipulator in the first workspace to prevent an operator from moving the powered manipulator to at least one physical limit of the first workspace;

    moving the powered manipulator in the first workspace in response to the movement commands from the processor;

    relocating the powered manipulator from the first workspace into a second workspace of the plurality of workspaces that is different from the first workspace;

    moving the powered manipulator in the second workspace in response to the movement commands from the processor; and

    said method characterized by repositioning the established at least one virtual constraint from the first workspace to the second workspace upon relocation of the powered manipulator such that movement of the powered manipulator in the second workspace is limited to prevent the operator from moving the powered manipulator to at least one physical limit of the second workspace.

View all claims
  • 1 Assignment
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×