22-06-2012, 04:30 PM
Technology Insight Report - Robotic Arm
Robotic Arm.pdf (Size: 1.64 MB / Downloads: 114)
Introduction to Robotic Arm
Arms are types of jointed robot manipulator that allow robots to interact with their environment. Many have onboard controllers or translators to simplify communication, though they may be controlled directly or in any number of ways. Due to this fact, standalone arms are often classified as full robots. The robot arms can be autonomous or controlled manually and can be used to perform a variety of tasks with great accuracy. The robotic arm can be fixed or mobile (i.e. wheeled) and can be designed for industrial or home applications.
Robotic Arm: Applications vs Assignees
Which assignees hold the maximum inventions across different application areas of robotic arms?
In the below matrix leading patent holdings with each applications have been highlighted with stronger shades of green for large number of patents within that category. Solomon Research LLC concentrates on Defense applications. Hansen Medical Inc with 36 records heads the Medical application field closely followed by Intuitive Surgical Inc with 15 records.
Assignee Portfolios spread across different robotics applications and types
In the map, each assignee is connected through links whose thickness and color intensity is directly proportional to the number of records relating them. The number (in red) next to each line represents the number of records held by the Assignee in the particular type and application for robotics.
Honda Motor Co Ltd leads the assignees for patents in Articulated type of robots. Fanuc Corp, Toshiba Corp and Panasonic Corp are actively involved in Industrial Robots.
Summary
Robotics is a rapidly growing field, as we continue to research, design, and build new robots that serve various practical purposes, domestically, commercially, or defense. Robotic arms are used in most industries such as material handling, welding, medical fields, agricultural activities.
Companies such as Fanuc Corp, Hitachi Group, Honda Motor Co Ltd, Hansen Medical Inc. are amongst the leaders with the largest patent portfolios.