Robot-deployable passage system

Abstract

A module (102) for a robotically deployable modular passage system (100) is described herein. The module (104) includes a block body (104), an attachment portion (106), and a grip portion (108). The attachment portion (106) is configured to attach the module (102) to another module (102). The gripping portion (108) is configured to enable a robot to grip and process the module (104). The robotically deployable modular passage system (100) includes a plurality of modules. The plurality of modules are configured to be assembled by the robot to form a structure. A method (500) of assembling a robotically deployable modular traffic system (100) by a robot is also described herein.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a robotically deployable accessibility system and related devices and methods configured to improve mobility of quadruped robot platforms and other (e.g., tracked) robot platforms. The system is suitable for use in a variety of adverse or hazardous environments, such as sites containing radioactive or contaminating materials that can harm humans and require robotic intervention. BACKGROUND

[0002] Working in radioactive, contaminating, hazardous, or other adverse environments can pose a serious health risk to humans. Examples of such work can include maintenance, handling, and inspection of radioactive materials that can be used in nuclear reactors. These tasks are necessary for the safe operation of the reactor as well as during decommissioning activities. Other examples of adverse environments can include disaster rescue and recovery, and security or surveillance related activities. In the case of radioactive or contaminating environments, excessive exposure significantly increases the likelihood of long-term health problems, including radiation sickness and cancer. Therefore, human interaction is best avoided whenever possible.

[0003] Recent developments in robotics technology have provided robot platforms that can replace humans. In addition, robots are able to operate in these dangerous environments, unlike humans, who are susceptible to influence. Several leading robot platforms are based on quadruped robots. These quadruped platforms can provide a stable and adaptable platform suitable for operation in the adverse environments described above. Quadruped robot platforms are still a relatively new concept, and as such, many of their potential applications have yet to be realized.

[0004] Robot platforms can be equipped with arms, appendages, or other tools to facilitate interaction and manipulation of objects within reach of the robot. Robot platforms can be limited by their reach and lifting capabilities. For example, lifting capabilities can be only a few kilograms. The maximum reach of these platforms can be limited to only a few meters. Despite recent advances, movement of robot platforms is still limited by the local environment and / or conditions. Depending on their design, robot platforms can have limited mobility in certain environments, which can further challenge the stability of the robot platform, particularly when the robot is carrying a payload. These environmental limitations can reduce the autonomy of the robot platform, thereby further reducing its effectiveness and increasing the likelihood of human interaction, which is undesirable in the adverse environments described above.

[0005] These problems, among others, can limit the operational effectiveness of robot platforms. It is desirable for robot platforms to remain autonomous and minimize the need for human intervention. The inventions described herein are directed to solving and overcoming at least some of the problems described above. SUMMARY

[0006] In view of the limitations discussed above, there is a need for a transit system (e.g. modular step or ramp arrangement) that can be carried, manipulated and assembled by a robotic platform in an autonomous or semi-autonomous manner. Such a system can include a stair or ramp configured to facilitate the transit needs of a wider range of autonomous vehicles and systems.

[0007] According to the present invention, there is provided apparatus and methods as set forth in the appended claims. Other features of the present invention will be apparent from the dependent claims and the following description.

[0008] According to one aspect, there is provided a module for a robot deployable modular transit system, comprising a block; an attachment portion; and a gripping portion. The attachment portion is configured to attach the module to another module. The gripping portion is configured to enable a robot to grip and handle the module. The arrangement provides a simple device that a robot can use to assemble a larger structure that can be traversed by the robot to provide access to areas that would otherwise be inaccessible.

[0009] The module can comprise a top surface having at least one vertical positioning feature. The vertical positioning feature can be configured to provide alignment between the module and another module. The arrangement enables a robot to correctly align modules during structure assembly. This also improves the final stability of the assembled structure.

[0010] The vertical positioning feature can be a protrusion that protrudes from the upper surface of the module. The vertical positioning feature can be received in a recess in the bottom surface of another module. The vertical positioning feature can be tapered or finer than the recess in the bottom surface of the other module, which can facilitate self-alignment of the modules as they are stacked by the robot.

[0011] The attachment portion of the module can comprise a horizontal locking feature. The horizontal locking feature is configured to lock the module to another module. The arrangement enables adjacent / abutting modules to interlock, thereby improving the stability of the assembled structure.

[0012] The horizontal locking feature comprises a horizontal locking protrusion and a horizontal locking recess. The horizontal locking protrusion is configured to be inserted into the horizontal locking recess of the attachment portion of a first other module. The horizontal locking recess is configured to receive the horizontal locking protrusion of a second other module. The arrangement enables a module to interlock with a plurality of adjacent / abutting modules in a simple yet robust manner, thereby improving the stability of the assembled structure.

[0013] The attachment portion of the module can be an end cap provided at the end of the block. This arrangement enables the block and the attachment portion or end cap to be formed separately from different materials. For example, the block can be formed from a material with a lower density than the end cap to reduce the weight of the module; whereas the end cap can be formed from a more wear resistant material to improve the stability of the assembly. This arrangement further enables the design of the attachment portion or end cap to be modified without the need to redesign and replace the entire module.

[0014] The gripping portion can be located on the front and / or top surface of the block. The gripping portion comprises a slot configured to receive at least a portion of a robotic gripper to allow the module to be handled by a robot. This arrangement ensures that the gripping portion is located in the optimal position for safe and stable handling by a robot. This arrangement also ensures that the gripping portion is suitable for robotic handling to prevent the module from falling or similar mishandling. A further advantage of the slot is that it can accommodate an insert.

[0015] The insert can be configured to be received in the slot of the gripping portion. The insert can be formed from a more wear resistant material than the block. This arrangement allows interchangeable inserts to be used which can be swapped depending on the robot or gripper tool being used by the robot. This arrangement can further improve the lifespan of the gripping portion and the module by protecting the block elements from repeated handling.

[0016] The module can be a step module comprising a substantially vertical front surface. This arrangement provides a module which is easy to produce, easy to stack and can be combined to form a variety of stable structures. This can allow a robot to stack step modules to assemble a set of steps for the robot to climb.

[0017] The module can be a ramp module, wherein the block comprises at least one inclined surface. By providing an inclined surface, a wider range of robotic platforms can utilise structures formed by combining a plurality of modules. For example, wheeled and tracked platforms can be used which can otherwise be unable to climb structures formed from step modules alone.

[0018] The ramp module can comprise an inclined surface having an angle of inclination relative to the horizontal of no more than 30 degrees. This arrangement can reduce the likelihood of various robotic platforms being restricted when ascending / moving along the ramp module and assembled structures.

[0019] The module can comprise an identification marker. The identification marker can be configured to be scanned by a robot to identify the module and can provide instructions relating to the layout of the structure to be assembled and / or the position of the module within the structure. This arrangement allows a robotic platform to scan a module and obtain identification and assembly information which can assist the robot during assembly of a structure.

[0020] The module can include a surface cover. The surface cover can be configured to attach to a top surface of the block, wherein the surface cover is formed of a more durable material than the block. This arrangement provides the module with a protective cover that can improve the durability of the module, thereby extending its useful life. The surface cover can also have a functional surface, for example, to improve the traction or grip of a robot.

[0021] Another embodiment in accordance with the present disclosure is a robot-deployable modular access system including a plurality of the above-described modules. The plurality of modules are configured to be assembled by a robot to form a structure. This arrangement allows the plurality of modules to be arranged to form a useful structure (e.g., a staircase, a platform, etc.) that can be used to provide access to previously inaccessible locations.

[0022] The modular access system can include a roof module. The roof module is configured to attach to an upper surface of at least one of the plurality of modules. This arrangement provides the system with an additional module to improve the flexibility of the system, thereby enabling the system to be used in a wider range of environments. This arrangement also defines an upper level of the system and prevents more modules from being placed.

[0023] The roof module of the modular access system can include a sloped upper surface. This arrangement provides a finer adjustment of the overall height of the assembled structure. This can provide a smooth transition between the assembled structure and the location being accessed.

[0024] The roof module of the modular access system can also include a railing along the side edges of the top surface of the module. This arrangement prevents a robotic platform (particularly a wheeled or tracked platform) from accidentally driving off the edge of the assembled structure. This arrangement also more clearly defines the passageway provided by the assembled structure.

[0025] Another embodiment in accordance with the present disclosure is a method of assembling a plurality of modules by stacking and interlocking the plurality of modules to form a structure. The method includes the steps of: removing at least one module from the plurality of modules; handling the at least one module from the plurality of modules by a gripping portion of the module; and assembling the plurality of modules by stacking and interlocking the plurality of modules to form a structure. This arrangement provides a method of forming a useful structure with a plurality of modules that can improve access to inaccessible locations by a robotic platform.

[0026] The method can also include the steps of: scanning, by the robot, an identification marker located on the at least one module; and autonomously assembling the plurality of modules according to instructions obtained from the scanned identification marker. This arrangement provides a method by which a robot can autonomously identify modules and assemble them into a predefined structure.

[0027] While several preferred embodiments of the present application have been shown and described, it is to be understood that various modifications and changes can be made thereto without departing from the scope of the present application as defined in the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0028] For a better understanding of the present application and to show how the same can be carried into effect, there will now be described by way of example only, reference being made to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 A robotically deployable modular passageway system of a first embodiment is shown, the system being formed by combining and assembling a plurality of modules into a structure; Figure 2 An embodiment of a robotically deployable modular passageway system is shown, in particular a module for a robotically deployable modular passageway system is shown; Figure 3 Another embodiment of a robotically deployable modular passageway system is shown, the system including a ramp segment; Figure 4 Another embodiment of a robotically deployable modular passageway system is shown, the system including a ramp module; and Figure 5 A method of assembling a robotically deployable modular passageway system as Figures 1-4 described is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Various examples will be described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. The examples described below can be modified in various different forms and implemented. In order to more clearly describe the features of the examples, detailed descriptions of matters well-known to those skilled in the art will be omitted.

[0030] In the present disclosure, when an element is described as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, this includes "directly connected" or "directly coupled" as well as "connected" or "coupled" with another element in between. Also, when an element is described as "including" another element, this means that the one element can further include other elements, rather than excluding other elements, unless otherwise explicitly stated.

[0031] Figure 1A first embodiment of a modular access system 100 deployable by a robot is illustrated. System 100 includes multiple modules 102. Modules 102 are configured to be assembled together by a robot to form a structure. This structure may be, for example, a set of steps to provide access for the robot or other vehicles. The structure is configured for the robot to traverse to access locations that would otherwise be inaccessible (e.g., ledges, areas with ladders, etc.). The multiple modules are configured to support the weight of the robot. The multiple modules may be further configured to support the weight of the robot when it is carrying a payload. The robot may be, for example, a quadruped robot. Figure 1 The diagram shows modules 102b, 102c, and 102d assembled into a set of stepped structures 130, while modules 102a and 102e have not yet been assembled into this structure.

[0032] Each of the multiple modules 102 includes a block 104, an attachment portion 106, and a gripping portion 108. The block 104 constitutes the majority of the volume of the module 102 and supports the weight of the robot during use. The block 104 is generally cuboid in shape and includes a top surface 110, a front surface 124, a pair of end surfaces 122, a bottom surface 111, and a rear surface.

[0033] like Figure 1 As shown, the attachment portion 106 is integral with the block 104. However, in other embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the attachment portion 206 can take the form of an end cap 216. (Back) Figure 1 The attachment portion 106 is configured to be attached to the attachment portion 106 of another module 102 among a plurality of modules. The attachment portion 106 is located near the end surface 122 of the block 104. Each module 102 includes a pair of attachment portions 106 located at opposite ends of the module 102 and near the end surface 122 of the block 104.

[0034] The top surface 110 of module 102 includes a vertical positioning feature 112. For example... Figure 1As shown, the attachment portion 106 includes four vertical positioning features 112. In other examples, the attachment portion can include more or less than four vertical positioning features. The vertical positioning features 112 are configured to provide alignment between modules 102 during assembly of the system 100. The at least one vertical positioning feature 112 also serves to increase the stability of the modules 102 when stacked vertically. The vertical positioning features 112 include protrusions. The protrusions are configured to fit within recesses 113 located at complementary locations on the bottom surface 111 of another module 102. The protrusions fit within the recesses 113 when multiple modules 102 are stacked vertically. The protrusions and recesses 113 can be shaped such that they only mate when the modules 102 are aligned in a particular orientation. The vertical positioning features can be tapered or more slender than the recesses in the bottom surface of the other module, which can help the modules self-align when stacked by a robot.

[0035] The attachment portion 106 also includes horizontal locking features 114. The horizontal locking features 114 of one module 102 are configured to interlock with the horizontal locking features 114 of another module 102 in the plurality of modules. Interlocking the plurality of modules in this manner can increase the horizontal stability of the assembled structure. The horizontal locking features 114 include horizontal locking protrusions 126 and horizontal locking recesses 128. The locking protrusions 126 are hook-shaped and the locking recesses 128 have a complementary shape to accommodate the hook-shaped locking protrusions 126 of another module 102. The modules 102 include horizontal locking features 114 at opposite ends of the block 104, providing at least two attachment points for modules located in front of and behind the module 102.

[0036] The gripping portion 108 is configured to be gripped by a robot. The gripping portion 108 is configured to enable a robot to lift, move, manipulate, mobilize, or otherwise arrange the modules 102 during assembly of the structure. The gripping portion 108 can have a geometry that is complementary to the manipulator tool, gripper mechanism, or arm of the robot to facilitate gripping and subsequent handling of the modules 102. The gripping portion 108 is located at a generally central location on the block 104 to provide stability when handled by the robot.

[0037] The gripping portion 108 of the module 102 is located on the top surface 110 of the block 104. In other examples, the gripping portion can be located on the front surface of the block. The module 102 can include multiple gripping portions located on different surfaces of the block 104 to increase the accessibility of the module 102.

[0038] The gripping portion 108 includes one or more slots. In use, a robot inserts its end effector into the one or more slots to grip the module 102. The slots can be configured to accommodate an insert (not shown). The insert lines the slot and is formed of a material that is more wear resistant than the block 104. This increases the durability of the gripping portion 108 during repeated handling by the robot.

[0039] The structure is formed by stacking and interlocking multiple modules starting from the base or foundation of the module 102. The structure is then built upwards until the desired height is reached.

[0040] The system 100 is configured to be assembled in situ by a robot, i.e. assembled at the location where access is required, rather than pre-assembled and then moved to the location where access is required. The system 100 is assembled into a structure by combining vertical stacking of the modules 102 with horizontal interlocking.

[0041] The module 102 can further comprise a surface covering (not shown). The surface covering is configured to be attached to the top surface 110 of the block 104. The surface covering is formed from a more robust material than the block, thereby increasing the durability of the block 104 when repeatedly used as a traversable surface.

[0042] The block element 104 is formed from a lightweight material to facilitate robotic handling. Suitable lightweight materials can include plastics (e.g. polystyrene). The module 102 and its various components can be produced using injection moulding techniques, additive manufacturing techniques (e.g. 3D printing) and the like. The total mass of an individual module 102 is preferably no more than about 2 kg, thereby allowing the module 102 to be safely and competently handled and manoeuvred by a robot. This approach combines a lightweight host material with the use of denser, heavier, more wear-resistant materials only where necessary to stabilise the steps, such that the module weight is minimised.

[0043] Figure 2 Another example module 202 is illustrated. The module 202 can be used to assemble a structure as shown in the system 100 of Figure 1 and / or the system 300 shown in Figure 3 The module 202 comprises a block 204, an attachment portion 206 and a gripping portion (not shown). Figure 2 The module is shown in an exploded state, prior to attachment of the attachment portion 206 to the block 204. As shown in Figure 2 The attachment portion 206 takes the form of an end cap 216, which is configured to be attached at an end of the block 204. The end cap 216 comprises a vertical positioning feature 212 and a horizontal locking feature 214, which correspond generally to the vertical positioning feature 112 and the horizontal locking feature 114 of the module 102 of Figure 1 As shown in Figure 2 The module comprises two end caps 216a, 216b, which are configured to engage opposite ends of the block element 204.

[0044] End cap 216 engages with end cap engagement portion 234 of block 204. End cap 216 is then secured to block 204 in a permanent or reversible manner. End cap engagement portion 234 includes at least one end cap recess 236. End cap recess 236 is configured to receive a complementary end cap alignment protrusion (not shown) located on the underside of end cap 216, thereby providing a tight fit between block 204 and end cap 216.

[0045] End cap 216 includes a first surface 218 and a second surface 220. The first surface 218 and the second surface 220 are arranged generally perpendicular to each other for mounting around the end of block 204 and end cap engagement portion 234. The first surface 218 of end cap 216 is configured to abut the top surface 210 of block 204. The second surface 220 is configured to abut the end surface 222 of block 204. The first surface 218 includes a top surface and a bottom surface. The bottom surface of the first surface 218 includes an end cap alignment protrusion. The top surface of the first surface 218 includes a vertical positioning feature 212. The second surface 220 of end cap 216 may include additional alignment features to improve the stability of the connection between end cap 216 and end surface 222 of block 204.

[0046] according to Figure 2 In one embodiment, the end cap 216 is formed of a different material than the block 204. The block 204 is formed of a lightweight material (such as polystyrene), while the end cap 216 is formed of a denser and stronger material than the block 204. Therefore, the end cap 216 is more wear-resistant, thereby improving the durability and stability of the module 202.

[0047] Figure 3 A further embodiment of a modular access system 300 that can be deployed by a robot is illustrated. (See illustration.) Figure 3 As shown, system 300 includes multiple different modules, including a combination of at least one step module 102 and at least one ramp module 302. Step module 102 includes a generally vertical front surface. Step module 102 constitutes most of the modules used in the assembly process of the structure.

[0048] The ramp module 302 includes and Figure 1 The attachment portion corresponds to the attachment portion of the shown module 102. The ramp module 302 also includes a gripping portion (not shown). The ramp module 302 includes at least one inclined surface. Preferably, the inclined surface of the ramp module 302 is formed by the front surface 324 of the inclined block 304. The ramp module 302 has a larger footprint than the step module 102, and has an extended bottom surface (not shown) and an inclined front surface 324. The ramp module 302 is arranged such that only the central portion of the front surface 324 of the block 304 is inclined, thereby allowing the attachment portion 306 to freely interact with other modules 102, 302, as described above.

[0049] By incorporating one or more ramp modules 302, various other robotic platforms can utilize the assembled structure. These other robotic platforms may include wheels or tracks, which would otherwise prevent them from using system 100. The inclination of the front surface 324 relative to the horizontal plane does not exceed 30 degrees to improve the accessibility of such wheeled or tracked robotic platforms.

[0050] In this embodiment, system 300 is formed by a combination of step module 102 and ramp module 302. In another embodiment, the access system is formed solely by ramp module 302, as described below. Figure 4 As stated above.

[0051] Back Figure 3 System 300 also includes at least one top cover module 340. The top cover module 340 is configured to cover modules 102 and 302. The top cover module 340 is the last module 340 placed during the structural assembly process. In other words, the top cover module 340 defines the top layer of the assembled system 300. The top cover module 340 includes an inclined surface and is configured to raise the structure to the desired height. The height of the top cover module 340 is less than the height of the ramp module 302, enabling the structure to be assembled to the desired height.

[0052] The top cover module 340 includes a railing 338. The railing 338 is located on the top surface of the top cover module 340 and is adjacent to the end surfaces of the top cover module 340. The railing 338 is configured to restrict the movement of the robot using the system 300. For example, the railing 338 can prevent a pedal-mounted or wheeled robot platform from driving off the edge of the assembled structure. The top cover module 340 may also be flat and provide functional surfaces, for example, to enhance the robot's grip or traction.

[0053] Each module 102, 302, 340 includes an identification or reference marker (not shown). This identification marker is configured to be scanned by the robot to provide automatic identification of modules 102, 302, 340. The identification marker also provides the robot with instructions regarding the layout of the access system. For example, the instructions convey the layout of structures, stairs, platforms, etc., and indicate to the robot the location of the scanned modules 102, 302, 340 within the structure. The identification marker can be at least one of machine-readable markers (e.g., QR codes). This identification marker arrangement is applicable to any module or system described herein. Those skilled in the art will understand that various other arrangements can be used to convey the same or similar information to the robot before and / or during the use of systems 100, 300.

[0054] Figure 4 Another embodiment of a modular access system 400 that can be deployed by a robot is illustrated. For example... Figure 4As shown, system 400 is mainly formed using only ramp module 302, rather than a combination of step module 102 and ramp module 302.

[0055] This disclosure also relates to a method 500 for assembling modular access systems 100, 300, and 400, as described above. Figures 1-4 As described in the embodiments. Figure 5 A flowchart is shown, including the steps involved in method 500. Method 500 will be performed by a robot. The robot can be controlled by an operator, or the robot can perform the method autonomously.

[0056] Method 500 includes step 502: removing at least one module 102, 202, 302 from a plurality of modules. The robot removes the at least one module 102, 202, 302 according to instructions provided by the operator. Alternatively, the robot autonomously removes the at least one module 102, 202, 302 according to its own determined passage requirements.

[0057] Method 500 further includes step 504: processing the at least one module 102, 202, 302. The module is configured to be processed by the robot via a gripping part. Processing the at least one module 102, 202, 302 includes various movements and / or maneuvers applied to accurately position the modules 102, 202, 302 according to instructions associated with the structure being assembled.

[0058] Method 500 further includes step 506: assembling multiple modules. This structure is configured to provide improved access for the robot. The structure can be, for example, stairs, ramps, platforms, etc. Those skilled in the art will understand that the specific arrangement of the structure can take various other forms depending on the surrounding environment and / or the access needs of the robot platform.

[0059] Method 500 further includes the step of scanning identification marks located on the at least one module 102, 202, 302 by a robot. Method 500 further includes the step of autonomously assembling the plurality of modules according to instructions obtained from the scanned identification marks.

[0060] Please note that all documents and files submitted concurrently with or prior to this application and made publicly available together with this specification are incorporated herein by reference.

[0061] All features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) and / or all steps of any method or process so disclosed may be combined in any combination, except for combinations of at least some of these features and / or steps that are mutually exclusive.

[0062] References to "an example," "an embodiment," "an aspect," or similar language in the specification mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that example is included in at least one example, but not necessarily in others. The phrase "in an example" or similar phrases appearing throughout the specification do not necessarily refer to the same example. In describing and claiming examples disclosed herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly specifies otherwise.

[0063] While several examples have been described in detail, it should be understood that the disclosed examples can be modified. Therefore, the foregoing description should be considered non-limiting. It should be understood that the examples described herein should be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for limiting purposes. The description of features or aspects within each example should generally be considered as other similar features or aspects that can be used in other examples. Although one or more examples have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail can be made.

Claims

1. A module for a modular access system deployable by a robot, the module comprising: Blocks; An attachment portion, configured to attach the module to another module; as well as The gripping portion is configured to enable the robot to grip and manipulate the module.

2. The module according to claim 1, wherein, The block includes a top surface having at least one vertical positioning feature configured to provide alignment between the module and another module.

3. The module according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The attachment portion includes a horizontal locking feature for locking the module to another module.

4. The module according to claim 3, wherein, The horizontal locking features include: Horizontal locking protrusion; and Horizontal locking recess; The horizontal locking protrusion is configured to insert into the horizontal locking recess of the attachment portion of the first other module, and The horizontal locking recess is configured to accommodate the horizontal locking protrusion of a second other module.

5. The module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The attachment portion is an end cap located at the end of the block.

6. The module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The gripping portion is located on at least one of the front and / or top surfaces of the block, wherein the gripping portion includes a groove configured to receive at least a portion of a robot gripper to allow the robot to handle the module.

7. The module according to claim 6, wherein, An insert is accommodated in the groove, and the insert is formed of a material that is more wear-resistant than the block.

8. The module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The module is a stepped module, wherein the block includes a generally vertical front surface.

9. The module according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The module is a ramp module, wherein the block includes at least one inclined surface.

10. The module according to claim 9, wherein, The angle of inclination of the inclined surface of the block relative to the horizontal plane does not exceed 30 degrees.

11. The module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The module includes an identification marker configured to be scanned by the robot to identify the module and provide instructions relating to the layout of the structure to be assembled and / or the position of the module within the structure.

12. The module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The module also includes a surface cover configured to be attached to the top surface of the block, wherein the surface cover is formed of a material that is more robust than the block.

13. A modular access system deployable by a robot, comprising a plurality of modules according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The multiple modules are configured to be assembled by the robot to form a structure.

14. The modular access system according to claim 13 further includes a top cover module, wherein, The top cover module is configured to be attached to the upper surface of at least one of the plurality of modules.

15. The modular access system according to claim 14, wherein, The top cover module includes an inclined upper surface.

16. The modular access system according to claim 14 or 15, wherein, The top cover module includes railings along the side edges of the top surface of the module.

17. A method for assembling a robot-deployable modular access system according to any one of claims 13 to 16 by a robot, the method comprising the steps of: Remove at least one module from a set of modules; The at least one module from multiple modules is processed through the gripping portion of the module; as well as The multiple modules are assembled by stacking and interlocking them to form a structure.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising the step of: The robot scans the identification mark located on the at least one module; and The multiple modules are assembled autonomously based on instructions obtained from the scanned identification marks.

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