Robotic platform with a low center of gravity, specifically designed to move between two rows of vines.

Abstract

The invention relates to a mobile robotic platform (1) designed to move between two rows of vegetation, particularly vines, comprising four wheels (2), a hollow chassis (3) defining a chamber (30), a platform configured to close the chamber (30), a propulsion system (100) housed within the chamber (30) and configured to drive the wheels (2), said system comprising two traction geared motors (101), each connected to a pair of wheels (2), each pair being positioned on opposite edges of the chassis (3) and facing each other, at least one battery (102) disposed in the chassis, two chain systems (103), each connecting two wheels (2) of the same pair, positioned on the same edge of the chassis (3), and each configured to synchronize the rotation of the drive wheels (2) on the same edge. Abstract figure: Figure 6

Description

Title of the invention: Robotic platform with a low center of gravity, particularly intended for moving between two rows of vines. Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of agricultural machinery and, in particular, to the field of autonomous agricultural machinery.

[0002] More specifically, the invention relates to a mobile robotic platform intended to move between two rows of vegetation, in particular vines, especially between two narrow rows. STATE OF THE ART

[0003] In viticulture, vine rows are spaced close together, typically between 0.9 m and 1.30 m apart, and in some cases, about 1 m apart, leaving a passage of approximately 60 cm wide between rows. Harvesting grapes is known using a straddle tractor that shakes the vines, causing the fruit to fall and then be transferred to a storage container by means of a transfer system. The storage container travels parallel to the straddle tractor within a row or rows of vines, and the transfer system extends between the straddle tractor and the storage container above the vines. Vineyard maintenance, in general, is now carried out using straddle tractors equipped with appropriate tools.

[0004] However, such straddle systems, coupled with storage containers, are bulky and unsuitable for narrow vineyards. Furthermore, these systems do not allow for the harvesting of grapes in whole bunches, which is notably mandatory according to the Champagne specifications for obtaining the Champagne appellation.

[0005] Thus, it is known to proceed with the manual collection of bunches of grapes in narrow vineyards, which presents a constraint in terms of time, the collection being time-consuming and arduous for the person who has to bend down, cut the bunch of grapes, stand up and put it in a container, either which he carries on his back, or which is nearby in the row.

[0006] In addition, there are fruit-picking robots with a chassis connected to wheels or tracks to allow movement between rows of plants. A robotic arm configured to pick the fruit is mounted on the chassis. Furthermore, the chassis can be connected to a cart configured to hold the fruit after it has been picked. (CN116058175)

[0007] However, this type of harvesting robot is not suitable for narrow vineyards, as it is too bulky, nor is it suitable for uneven ground, such as slopes. Indeed, both the cart and the robotic arm are designed to operate on regular and relatively level ground.

[0008] Thus, the invention aims to solve the aforementioned problems by proposing a robotic platform designed to move between rows of narrow vines, adapted to irregular and sloping soils and allowing both the collection of whole bunches of grapes and the storage of said bunches of grapes, so as to facilitate, automate and reduce the time and constraint of collecting bunches of grapes in narrow vines. PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] More specifically, the invention relates to a mobile robotic platform designed to move on the ground between two rows of vegetation, particularly vines, and extending lengthwise along a longitudinal axis, widthwise along a transverse axis, and heightwise along a vertical axis. The platform comprises four drive wheels, namely two left wheels and two right wheels, a hollow chassis defining a chamber, connected to the drive wheels, the left wheels being placed on the same edge of the chassis and the right wheels being placed on the same edge of the chassis opposite the edge receiving the left wheels, at least one platform, disposed above the chassis chamber, and at least one propulsion system configured to drive the four drive wheels, said propulsion system being disposed within the chassis chamber.The propulsion system comprises at least two traction geared motors, each connected to a pair of drive wheels, each pair of drive wheels being placed on opposite edges of the chassis and facing each other, each traction geared motor comprising a motor part housed entirely within the chamber and a reduction part protruding, from the chamber, at least partially outside the chassis to be coupled to a drive wheel; at least one battery disposed in the volume defined by the chassis, under the platform; at least two chain systems, each chain system connecting two drive wheels placed on the same edge of the chassis, each chain system being configured to synchronize the rotation of the wheels on the same edge.

[0010] The compactness and arrangement of the propulsion system of the robotic platform according to the invention, including in particular the traction geared motors, as well as their respective motor controllers, one or more batteries, or even a high-level controller, advantageously allows the platform located above the chassis to barely exceeding the top of the wheels vertically, or culminating at approximately 407 mm from the ground.

[0011] The robotic platform is autonomous between the rows of vines and allows by For example, consider the harvesting and / or storage of fruit, such as bunches of grapes, picked from the vines. The wheels allow the robotic platform to move between the vines, and the chassis, specifically the chassis chamber, houses the wheel propulsion system that drives the robotic platform. The platform positioned above the chassis chamber also allows for the attachment of a container for storing the harvested fruit and / or a robotic arm for harvesting fruit or maintaining the vines, for instance. Furthermore, this propulsion system configuration allows the robotic platform's four wheels to be driven while minimizing its overall size and lowering its center of gravity, thus ensuring good stability, particularly on slopes and inclines.The low center of gravity allows the platform to be at a height easily accessible to a person of normal height, who can, if necessary, place bunches of grapes directly into containers, such as wine crates, placed on the platform.

[0012] Advantageously, the propulsion system comprises two traction geared motors and one or two batteries configured to power the traction geared motors, each traction geared motor enabling the movement of two drive wheels on the same edge of the chassis. In the case of two batteries, these are further arranged opposite each other and located within the chamber.

[0013] Traction geared motors conventionally comprise a reduction part and a motor part, in particular electric in the present case, and cooperate with bearings to be coupled to the drive wheels.

[0014] With the presence of the two traction geared motors and the associated battery or batteries, on each side, a drive wheel is driven by a motor and drives the other wheel on the same side via a chain system.

[0015] According to one embodiment, a traction geared motor is disposed at the front of the chamber and drives a front wheel of a first edge, left or right, said front wheel of the first edge being integral with a sprocket which is itself integral with its hub, and being connected to the rear wheel of the same first edge by means of one of the chain systems, said rear wheel of the first edge being itself integral with its own sprocket which is integral with its hub, so as to drive said rear wheel of the first edge in rotation; and a second traction geared motor is disposed at the rear of the chamber and drives a rear wheel On a second side, opposite the first side, the rear wheel of the second side is attached to a sprocket, which is itself attached to its hub, and connected to the front wheel of the same second side by means of the other chain system. The front wheel of the second side is itself attached to its own sprocket, which is attached to its hub, so as to drive the front wheel of the second side in rotation in a similar manner. In this case, the first traction motor, at the front of the chamber, drives the left-hand wheels, and the second traction motor, at the rear of the chamber, drives the right-hand wheels. Of course, a reverse arrangement, in which the motor at the front drives the wheels of the right-hand side and / or the motor at the rear drives the wheels of the left-hand side, is perfectly possible.

[0016] Advantageously, the crowns are fixed to the traction geared motors and are substantially bowl-shaped. Thus, the reduction gears of the traction geared motors are located inside said bowls, with the advantages of compactness and the arrangement of the chain of the chain systems, on each side, around the reduction gears, thus allowing the application of chain tension between the bearings of the geared motors.

[0017] Speed ​​control of each edge, in particular in a speed range from -7km / h to +7km / h, allows either forward movement, each edge having a speed contributing to moving forward, or reverse movement, each edge having a speed contributing to moving backward, or a turn, a speed differential between the edges contributing to establishing a curved trajectory that can reach a gyration such that the platform rotates on itself.

[0018] Advantageously, the chain systems are arranged outside the frame relative to each edge. The same applies to the sprockets.

[0019] Advantageously, at least one battery is housed in a bay. Preferably, two batteries are present, each battery powering the traction geared motors.

[0020] Advantageously, each battery is housed in a bay, at the bottom of which is a connector. Thus, the batteries supply electrical power at a nominal voltage of, for example, approximately 48V to two low-level motor controllers, each of which controls a traction motor. The battery or batteries can also power a DC / DC converter supplying the rest of the on-board electronics at a voltage of approximately 24V.

[0021] Advantageously, the battery or batteries are in particular rackable and removable.

[0022] Advantageously, the robotic platform also includes a high-level controller, for example of the embedded PC type, housed in the chamber and configured for run navigation software for the robotic platform and to control the motor controllers of the traction geared motors.

[0023] The chamber can also house other equipment and sensors, including at least one GPS sensor enabling the location of the robotic platform and thus its guidance in the vineyards; an Ethernet router enabling the creation of an Ethernet network within the robotic platform; a USB hub; a remote control receiver for the robotic platform; an inertial sensor to determine the attitude, pitch or yaw of the robotic platform.

[0024] Advantageously, the robotic platform comprises two tensioning roller systems, namely a first tensioning roller and a second tensioning roller, the first tensioning roller being interposed between the two left-hand drive wheels and the second tensioning roller being interposed between the two right-hand drive wheels, the tensioning roller systems being respectively connected to a chain system, said tensioning roller systems being configured to ensure the tension of said chain systems.

[0025] Advantageously, the robotic platform includes at least one fuse holder, said fuse holder being connected to the chassis on one of its longitudinal edges.

[0026] Advantageously, the robotic platform comprises at least two cameras, located on the chassis on a first transverse edge and on a second transverse edge of said chassis.

[0027] The cameras thus constitute the vision system of the robotic platform.

[0028] Advantageously, the chassis includes an outer casing enclosing said propulsion system and configured to protect said propulsion system. The robotic platform may also include a bumper, in other words, a crash shield, to provide safety in the event of a collision with an obstacle.

[0029] Advantageously, the chamber has a maximum width along the transverse axis of 0.40 m, the width of the chamber being in particular equal to about 0.37 m, a maximum length along the longitudinal axis of about 1.10 m, the length of the chamber being equal to about 1.02 m, and a maximum height along the vertical axis of about 0.35 m, the height of the chamber being in particular equal to about 0.32 m.

[0030] Such a chassis width allows the wheels to be installed in a width of less than about 60 cm, making it possible to ensure the movement of the robotic platform in narrow vineyards.

[0031] The ground clearance is nevertheless preserved, being in particular between 10 cm and 18 cm, in particular approximately equal to 14 cm.

[0032] Advantageously, the tray is removable on said chassis so as to close the chamber of the chassis, or, on the contrary, to leave free access to the chamber of said chassis.

[0033] The chassis chamber notably houses the drive wheel propulsion system that enables the robotic platform to move. The platform's horizontal position above the chamber thus prevents access to it. PRESENTATION OF THE FIGURES

[0034] The invention will be better understood upon reading the following description, given solely by way of example, and referring to the accompanying drawings given by way of non-limiting examples, in which identical references are given to similar objects and on which:

[0035] [Fig.1] is a schematic perspective representation of the robotic platform that is the subject of the invention, showing the chassis on which the platform is placed and the two diagonally opposed masts are attached;

[0036] [Fig.2] is a side view of the robotic platform of [Fig.1];

[0037] [Fig. 3] is a view similar to that of [Fig. 1], on which a useful volume, by for example a container, was added to one of the receiving regions of the robotic platform tray;

[0038] [Fig.4] is a view similar to that of [Fig.3], on which a second container has been added to the other receiving region of the robotic platform tray;

[0039] [Fig.5] is a top view of the robotic platform of [Fig.1];

[0040] [Fig. 6] is a bottom view of the robotic platform of [Fig. 1], to which a base plate of the robotic platform was omitted, so as to make the propulsion system of the robotic platform visible;

[0041] [Fig.7] is a perspective representation of the robotic platform of [Fig.1] in which only the chassis, the wheels of movement, and the propulsion system have been retained;

[0042] [Fig.8] is a perspective representation of the chassis of the robotic platform of [Fig.1];

[0043] [Fig.9] is a perspective view of the robotic platform of [Fig.1], from which the platform has been removed, so as to make visible the chassis chamber housing the propulsion system;

[0044] [Fig. 10] is a perspective view of the chassis connected to the propulsion system and the movement wheels of the robotic platform of [Fig. 1];

[0045] [Fig.1 1] is a perspective view of the propulsion system of the robotic platform of [Fig.1];

[0046] [Fig. 12] is a side view of the propulsion system of [Fig. 11]; and

[0047] Figure 13 shows a cross-sectional view of the robotic platform according to the invention.

[0048] It should be noted that the figures set out the invention in detail to enable implementation of the invention; although not limiting, said figures serve in particular to better define the invention where appropriate. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0049] The invention relates to the field of agricultural machinery and, in particular, to the field of autonomous agricultural machinery.

[0050] With reference to [Fig. 1], the invention relates in particular to a robotic platform 1. The robotic platform 1 is mobile and intended to move on the ground, between two rows of vegetation, in particular two rows of vines.

[0051] In particular, the robotic platform 1 is intended to move between two rows of vines, in particular two narrow rows of vines. It can be autonomous.

[0052] Narrow vines are understood to mean vines whose median axis of rows is typically spaced about 0.9 m to 1.3 m apart, for example about 1.2 m, or even 1 m, from each other.

[0053] The robotic platform 1 extends in length along a longitudinal axis X, in width along a transverse axis Y and in height along a vertical axis Z.

[0054] The robotic platform 1 has four drive wheels 2. In particular, the robotic platform 1 has two left-hand wheels and two right-hand wheels. The drive wheels 2 allow the robotic platform 1 to move between the vines.

[0055] The robotic platform 1 further comprises a chassis 3, at least one platform 4 and at least two masts 51, 52.

[0056] With reference to Figures 8 and 9, the frame 3 is hollow and defines a chamber 30. The frame 3 is connected to the four drive wheels 2. In particular, the two left wheels are located on one edge of the frame 3 and the two right wheels are located on the other edge of the frame 3, opposite the edge receiving the left wheels. With reference to [Fig. 1], the left wheels are connected to one transverse edge of the frame 3 and the right wheels are connected to the other transverse edge of the frame 3.

[0057] The chamber 30 of the chassis 3 houses a propulsion system 100 for the wheels 2, enabling the robotic platform 1 to move between the vines. The propulsion system includes, in particular, traction geared motors and associated power batteries, described in detail below.

[0058] The chassis 3 has a width along the transverse Y axis of approximately 0.40 m. The width of the robotic platform 1, taking into account this chassis and agricultural wheels on each side, thus typically has a width of approximately 0.60 m, compatible with narrow vineyards. Indeed, such a width allows the robotic platform 1 to move freely in narrow vineyards.

[0059] With reference to Figures 7 to 9, according to the embodiment shown, the chassis 3 comprises a body 112, a frame 114 and an outer casing 111. The body 112 is notably shown in [Fig. 8]. It comprises a steel frame and forms an enclosure. The enclosure delimits chamber 30, inside which the propulsion system 100 is housed. This enclosure is then closed by an upper cover 113, and the frame 114 is attached to this upper cover. The frame 114 is configured to support the two masts 51 and 52 and to extend around the periphery of the body 112. With reference to [Fig. 9], the outer cover 111 encloses the body 112 housing the propulsion system 100; thus, the outer cover 111 encloses the propulsion system 100. The outer cover 111 therefore protects the propulsion system 100.

[0060] For safety, the robotic platform may also include a bumper to absorb any potential impact with an obstacle. Integrating the bumper into the robotic platform 1 is advantageous because it allows access to the batteries while maintaining obstacle-crossing capabilities and keeping the overall length of the robotic platform 1 reduced.

[0061] Fig. 10 allows in particular to visualize the compactness of the chassis housing the propulsion system of the robotic platform 1 according to the invention, integrating the motorization and transmission, as well as the power supply batteries.

[0062] With reference to [Fig. 1], the tray 4 is removable on the chassis 3 and is configured to be positioned above the chamber 30 of the chassis 3.

[0063] The chamber can be closed by a top cover 113, for example made of sheet metal, and the tray is placed on top of it. The top cover 113 ensures, in particular, a tight seal of the chamber.

[0064] The upper cover 113 of chamber 30 allows access to the propulsion system 100 of the robotic platform 1 to be closed. Conversely, leaving access to chamber 30 of chassis 3 free allows access to the propulsion system 100 and, for example, facilitates its maintenance. The presence of the platform 4 above the chamber prevents access to it, whereas access is possible after removing the platform 4.

[0065] In particular, the platform 4 has the shape of a plate extending longitudinally. The platform 4 here delimits two receiving regions 41, 42, namely a first receiving region 41 and a second receiving region 42.

[0066] In the example shown in the figures, the first receiving region 41 and the second receiving region 42 have the same dimensions.

[0067] It is evident that the first receiving region 41 and the second receiving region 42 may have different dimensions.

[0068] According to an embodiment not shown, the plate 4 may have more receiving regions along its length.

[0069] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the platform 4 is configured to receive, on its receiving regions 41 and 42, a container 6 and / or a robot or robotic arm. The container 6, the robot, or the robotic arm is secured to the platform 4. It is understood that the container 6, the robot, or the robotic arm referred to here and in the remainder of the description are examples of functional loads that can be received on the platform 4. By "functional load," we mean a payload, in particular having a specific function in the context of the robotic platform 1.

[0070] Furthermore, the robotic platform 1 according to the invention is specifically designed to operate between two rows of vines. However, it can also be used between two rows of vegetation other than vines. The use of the robotic platform 1 according to the invention is particularly advantageous in the case of rows of vines, and even more specifically in the case of narrow vines.

[0071] Thus, the platform 4 placed in position above the chamber 30 allows in particular the container 6 and / or the robotic arm to be positioned, so as to allow the maintenance or harvesting of the vines.

[0072] In addition, the platform 4 can cooperate with fastening units 43. The fastening units 43 are located on each of the longitudinal edges of the chassis 3. The fastening units 43 are configured to allow each mast 51, 52 to be attached to the platform 4 and to attach said containers 6 and / or robots to the platform 4 respectively in the first region 41 and the second region 42.

[0073] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the fastening units 43 may, for example, include threaded bores, allowing the container(s) 6 to be secured to the platform 4 and the robot(s) or robotic arm(s) to the platform 4 by means of a screw system. Thus secured, the container 6 and / or the robot is fixedly connected to the robotic platform 1 and its fall from the platform 1 is prevented, even on uneven ground, on slopes, etc.

[0074] In addition, through perforations 9 can be formed in the first region 41 and / or the second receiving region 42 of the tray 4.

[0075] The through perforations 9 can aid in gripping the tray 4 for its placement. Furthermore, these through perforations 9 also allow, where necessary, the drainage of grape juice and prevent its accumulation on the tray 4. In addition, through openings 10 can be formed in the first receiving region 41 and / or the second receiving region 42 of the tray 4.

[0076] The openings 10 allow the platform 4 to be grasped. Thus, through these openings 10, the platform 4 can be positioned so as to come above the chamber 30 or, conversely, the platform 4 can be removed so as to open the chamber 30 of the frame 3.

[0077] With reference to [Fig. 1], the two masts 51, 52 are connected to the chassis 3. In particular, a first mast 51 protrudes from the chassis 3, vertically, along the Z axis, in the opposite direction of the travel wheels 2 and a second mast protrudes from the chassis 3, vertically, along the Z axis, in the opposite direction of the travel wheels 2. The first mast 51 and the second mast 52 each protrude from one of the longitudinal edges of the chassis 3.

[0078] In particular, the first mast 51 extends into the first receiving region 41 or in the second receiving region 42 of the platform 4 and the second mast 52 extends into the other of the receiving regions 42, 41 of the platform 4. In other words, the first and second masts 51, 52 protrude from the two receiving regions 41, 42 on opposite longitudinal and transverse edges of the frame 3. The first mast 51 and the second mast 52 are diagonally opposite.

[0079] The masts 51, 52 are secured to the platform 4 by its fixing units 43. The fixing units 43 then allow a configuration adaptable to the user.

[0080] The arrangement of the masts 51, 52 on the platform 4 allows access to a first vine from one transverse edge of the robotic platform 1, and also access to a second vine from another transverse edge of the robotic platform 1. Thus, harvesting and / or maintenance can be carried out simultaneously on the two vines between which the robotic platform 1 travels, without requiring multiple passes or back-and-forth trips. Furthermore, the masts 51, 52, projecting above the vegetation of the vines, allow access to the platform 1 by a user located between the rows of vines directly adjacent to the rows of vines between which the robotic platform 1 travels.

[0081] With reference to the figures, each mast 51, 52 may have at least one control unit and at least one light indicator configured to indicate the location of the robotic platform 1.

[0082] The control unit allows, for example, the stopping of the robotic platform 1. The user can, for example, press an emergency stop button located on the mast 51, 52, causing the complete stop of the platform 1. The light indicator, located high above the ground on which the robotic platform 1 travels and above the vegetation of the vines, allows a user to locate the robotic platform 1, even when it is in operation between two rows of vines.

[0083] Furthermore, each mast 51, 52 has a height corresponding to the average height of a human. Thus, a human can access the mast 51, 52 and, by simply lifting his arm and pressure on the control unit allow emergency stop of platform 1. In addition, such a height of mast 51, 52 allows vegetation to be cleared from the antennas located in a higher part of the mast 51, 52, allowing in particular to capture radio signals, satellites.

[0084] According to one embodiment, each mast 51, 52 comprises two portions, namely a first portion 53 and a second portion 54, each first portion 53 projecting vertically along the vertical axis Z of the chassis 3 in the direction opposite to the ground, and therefore also opposite to the wheels 2 which rest on the ground. Each second portion 54 projects from the first portion 53 at an angle, in the direction of the platform 4. Each second portion specifically supports the control unit for each mast 51, 52.

[0085] With reference to Figures 3 and 4, the robotic platform 1 can transport two containers 6, one container 6, to each of the receiving areas 41, 42 of the platform 4. This configuration allows for collaboration between the robotic platform 1 and one or more users. The user collects the grape bunches from the vines and stores them in the containers 6; the robotic platform 1 then handles the storage and transport of the harvested bunches along the vines.

[0086] According to an embodiment not shown, a robotic arm can be attached to the first receiving portion 41 of the platform 4 and a container 6 can be attached to the second receiving portion 42 of the platform 4. The robotic arm can, for example, include a pruner and / or a gripper, allowing the bunches to be collected from the vines and then stored in the container 6. Thus, such a configuration allows for autonomous collection and transport of the bunches of grapes throughout the vineyard.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the robotic arm can be equipped with a gripper allowing it to grasp containers 6 arranged on the ground and transfer them onto the platform 4. Thus, with such a configuration, the robotic platform 1 would allow the collection of containers 6 and then their transport.

[0088] According to another embodiment not shown, a robotic arm can be attached to the first receiving portion 41 of the platform 4 and another robotic arm can be attached to the second receiving portion 42 of the platform 4. Such a configuration allows the maintenance of two juxtaposed vines autonomously and simultaneously.

[0089] It is evident that a plurality of configuration combinations are possible and that only a portion of them are listed here. Various robotic arms can be considered, enabling the harvesting, maintenance, and / or collection of containers 6, combined with another similar or different robotic arm, i.e., one with different functionalities. It is also possible to combine any one of the possible robotic arms with a container 6, so as to allow a user a varied number of tasks and therefore to adapt as best as possible to their needs.

[0090] The robotic platform 1 may further include at least two cameras 8, located on the chassis 3 on a first transverse edge and on a second transverse edge. The cameras 8 constitute the vision system of the robotic platform 1.

[0091] The propulsion system 100 of the robotic platform, shown in Figures 6, 9, 11 and 12, is configured to allow the drive of the four wheels 2 of movement.

[0092] With reference to [Fig.6], the propulsion system 100 comprises at least two traction geared motors 101, at least one battery 102 and at least two chain systems 103.

[0093] The traction geared motors 101 drive two travel wheels 2, each placed on an opposite edge of the chassis 3. The battery or batteries 102 are arranged in the chamber.

[0094] Each chain system 103 connects two drive wheels 2 placed on the same edge of the chassis 3. Each chain system 103 is configured to transmit the motion of a drive wheel 2 driven in motion by the traction geared motor 101 to the drive wheel 2 which is connected to it.

[0095] As shown in [Fig.6], the propulsion system 100 comprises two traction geared motors 101, and two batteries 102 powering the traction geared motors 101.

[0096] In such an embodiment, each of the traction geared motors 101 enables the movement of two travel wheels 2 arranged on the same edge of the chassis 3. The battery or batteries 102 are arranged opposite each other, in dedicated bays, under the platform 4. As can be seen in [Fig. 13], the traction geared motors 101 comprise a motor part 101A which is housed in the chamber and a reduction part 101B which protrudes from the chamber, outside the chassis, to drive a travel wheel 2.

[0097] As can be seen in particular in figures 11 and 12, the two wheels 2 of movement on the same side of the chassis are thus connected to each other by a chain system 103. On each side, one of the wheels 2, called the driving wheel, is thus set in rotation by a traction geared motor 101.

[0098] Each wheel 2 comprises a hub that is integral with a sprocket that meshes with the chain of the chain system 103. The hub and sprocket of one of the drive wheels 2, front or rear respectively, on a left or right edge, are driven in motion by a traction geared motor 101. The wheel thus driven in motion will synchronously drive the other wheel 2 of displacement located on the same left or right edge as the displacement wheel 2, called the driving wheel, which is driven in motion by the motor 101.

[0099] According to the invention, the chain system 103, on each side, is located outside the chamber.

[0100] With reference to [Fig. 13], the hub of each wheel is attached to a bowl-shaped ring 21. This bowl-shaped ring 21 "caps" the reduction gear of the corresponding traction motor-reducer 101, to which it is fixed, allowing this reduction gear to be integrated as far to the outside as possible. In particular, the location of the bowl-shaped ring 21 and the chain system 103 outside the chassis significantly improves the compactness of the chamber.

[0101] On each left or right edge of the robotic platform 11, the wheel 2 of the drive system that is driven by a traction geared motor 101 is connected to said traction geared motor 101; this is the left-hand wheel in [Fig. 13]. For example, a drive shaft of said traction geared motor 101 is fixed to the bowl-shaped part 21, which is itself fixed to the hub of said wheel 2 and which includes the sprocket engaging the chain of the chain system 103.

[0102] According to a preferred embodiment, a traction geared motor 101 is arranged in the chamber, at the front, and a traction geared motor 101 is arranged in the chamber, at the rear. The two traction geared motors 101 are thus arranged respectively at the front and rear of the chamber, facing each other.

[0103] Each traction geared motor 101 is respectively configured to allow the movement of the travel wheels 2 located on an edge, left or, respectively, right, of the chassis.

[0104] For example, the front-mounted traction motor-reducer 101 directly drives the front-left wheel 2 of the chassis, which in turn drives the rear-left wheel 2 via the chain system 103. Conversely, in this case, the rear-mounted traction motor-reducer 101 directly drives the rear-right wheel 2 of the chassis, which in turn drives the front-right wheel 2 via the chain system 103.

[0105] With reference to Figures 11 and 12, the robotic platform 1 comprises two tensioning roller systems 109, namely a first and a second tensioning roller system 109, which function as chain tensioners. The first sprocket system 109 is interposed between the two left-hand drive wheels 2, and the second sprocket system 109 is interposed between the two right-hand drive wheels 2. The first and second tensioning roller systems 109 are respectively connected to the chain system 103 associated with the wheels 2 between which they are interposed. The tensioning roller systems 109 are configured to tension the chain systems 103. The tensioner roller 109, on each side, consists of a sprocket cooperating with a slide, a screw and a nut configured to lock the position of the slide in a chain tension adjustment position.

[0106] Each traction motor 101 is controlled by means of a motor controller, referred to as a "low-level" controller. The low-level controllers receive their instructions via a CAN network. They control and supply electrical power to the traction motors 101. Specifically, a front motor controller controls the front traction motor 101 and a rear motor controller controls the rear traction motor 101. Alternatively, the front motor controller controls the rear traction motor 101 and the rear motor controller controls the front traction motor 101.

[0107] Each traction geared motor 101, each motor controller, as well as any other electrically power-consuming device of the robotic platform 1, is supplied with electrical energy from the battery or batteries 102. The electrical power delivered by the battery or batteries 102 is distributed to all the electrically power-consuming devices of the robotic platform 1 via an electrical power distribution module. In particular, the electrical power distribution module includes an electrical distribution and connection busbar through which the electrical power delivered by the battery or batteries 102 is distributed.

[0108] As consumers of electrical energy, the robotic platform 1 may include a DC / DC converter configured to convert the electrical voltage delivered by the battery or batteries 102 to suit the needs of onboard electronic equipment. For example, the battery or batteries 102 deliver a voltage of 48 V, and the DC / DC converter converts the electrical energy to a voltage of 24 V suitable for certain onboard electronic equipment and accessories, such as a remote control receiver for the robotic platform 1, a GPS receiver, sensors, etc.

[0109] The electrical power delivered by the battery or batteries 102 can also power, again via the electrical power distribution module, other electrical energy consumers not mentioned. In addition, additional batteries located inside or outside the chassis, particularly above the platform 4, can also be connected to the power distribution module, either to provide additional electrical power to the electrical energy consumers of the robotic platform 1, or to power or recharge themselves using the electrical power supplied by the battery or batteries 102 located in the chamber under the platform 4.

[0110] The battery or batteries 102 are, in particular, removable, for recharging outside the robotic platform 1, and rackable in dedicated bays provided in the chassis. In particular, it may be provided that said bays are external to the chamber, Although located beneath platform 4 and within the volume defined by the chassis, the bays dedicated to the 102 batteries include electrical connectors into which the 102 batteries are designed to be inserted. The independence of the 102 battery bays from the chamber allows for separate management of sealing issues. The chamber can thus be sealed in a completely airtight manner, as its airtightness is not affected by the removable nature of the 102 batteries. The 102 batteries are elongated in shape, designed for stacking, and the dedicated bays are, of course, of a corresponding shape.

[0111] Such a configuration of the propulsion system 100 allows the four wheels 2 of movement of the robotic platform 1 to be driven while limiting its size and lowering its center of gravity, thus allowing good stability of the robotic platform 1, especially on slopes and inclines.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the platform 4 of the robotic platform 1 is thus located approximately 40 cm above the ground, specifically 407 mm above the ground, including all components. In other words, the platform 4 is directly above the top of the drive wheels 2, which are of the agricultural type. "Agricultural wheel" refers to standard wheels used in agriculture and viticulture. These are typically agricultural wheels with a diameter of approximately 40 cm, configured to be inflated to a low pressure, for example, 0.8 bar, and to support loads of approximately 160 kg per tire at 15 km / h. Such agricultural wheels are particularly well-suited for agricultural use, especially in vineyards, as they minimize soil compaction and provide good traction and obstacle-crossing performance.Due to its short length and ground clearance of approximately 14 cm, robotic platform 1 is capable of traversing common obstacles in agricultural environments, particularly vineyards, such as 10 cm high bumps, at a speed of 7 km / h. Furthermore, the dimensions of robotic platform 1, and in particular its chassis, are adapted to handle changes in slope, such as ridges, which are common in vineyards, ruts, etc.

[0113] In particular, with reference to [Fig. 2], a side view of the robotic platform 1, excluding the masts, is substantially trapezoidal in shape. The longer side at the top represents the length of the platform 4, approximately 1.34 m according to the embodiment already mentioned, with a chassis length, corresponding approximately to the chamber length, of approximately 1.02 m. This length of the platform 4 allows, in particular, for two wine crates to be placed side by side. The shorter side of the trapezoid corresponds more or less to the footprint of the robotic platform, i.e., the distance between the front and rear of the front wheel. The angle formed at the front and rear by joining the longer and shorter sides thus defined is suitable for overcoming the obstacles already mentioned, as well as for the changes in slope common in vineyards.

[0114] With the presence of the two motors 101 and the two associated batteries 102, the wheels 2 of a first longitudinal edge, which can be described as the front wheels of the robotic platform 1, can be driven and allow the driving of the two other wheels 2, which can be described as the rear wheels of the robotic platform 1.

[0115] Conversely, the wheels 2 on the second longitudinal edge of the platform 1, the rear wheels, can also be driven and allow the other two wheels 2, the front wheels, to be driven. Thus, the robotic platform 1 can move between the vines, in one direction or the other, selectively. In other words, the robotic platform 1 can move forward, or conversely backward, between the two rows of vines, depending on the user's needs.

[0116] With reference to [Fig.9], the battery or batteries 102 are housed in a respective bay 104.

[0117] The robotic platform 1 also includes a high-level controller 105, for example of the embedded PC type, housed in the chamber and configured to run navigation software for the robotic platform and to control the motor controllers of the traction geared motors 101.

[0118] Depending on the configuration chosen, the chamber can also integrate an input-output module connected to a CAN network of the robotic platform 1.

[0119] A GPS unit 106, a remote control receiver 107 (for remote control of the robotic platform 1), and an Ethernet router 108 can also be integrated into the chamber and powered by the battery or batteries 102, including, where appropriate, via a DC / DC converter as described previously. Similarly, the chamber can also house a USB hub or an inertial sensor for measuring the roll, pitch, or yaw of the robotic platform 1.

[0120] The GPS unit 106 enables the robotic platform 1 to be located and thus guided within the vineyards. The Ethernet router 108 allows, for example, the creation of an Ethernet network within the robotic platform 1.

[0121] All the aforementioned equipment, whether optional or not, as well as the electrical power distribution module, the motor controllers which control the traction geared motors, etc., are controlled, if necessary, from the high-level controller 105.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the robotic platform 1 further comprises an electrical interface including electrical connectors for powering equipment located on the platform, such as a robot or a robotic arm. For example, these electrical connectors are flush with the upper surface of the chamber and allow such electrical equipment to be connected through the hood. Power is then supplied by the battery or batteries 102 arranged under platform 4. Such electrical connectors also allow, where necessary, the connection of additional batteries external to the chassis.

[0123] The robotic platform 1 may further include at least one fuse holder 110, the fuse holder 110 being connected to the chassis 3 on one of its longitudinal edges.

[0124] Thus, the robotic platform 1 of the invention with its low center of gravity is adapted to uneven ground and slopes and allows both the collection of whole bunches of grapes and the storage of said bunches of grapes, so as to facilitate, automate and reduce the time and constraint of collecting bunches of grapes in narrow vineyards.

[0125] It should also be noted that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. It will indeed be apparent to a person skilled in the art that various modifications can be made to the embodiment described above, in light of the information just disclosed to them.

[0126] In the detailed presentation of the invention given above, the terms used shall not be interpreted as limiting the invention to the embodiment set forth in this description, but shall be interpreted to include all equivalents which can be foreseen by a person skilled in the art by applying their general knowledge to the implementation of the teaching which has just been disclosed to them.

Claims

Demands

1. A mobile robotic platform (1) designed to move on the ground between two rows of vegetation, particularly vines, and extending lengthwise along a longitudinal axis (X), widthwise along a transverse axis (Y) and heightwise along a vertical axis (Z), said platform (1) comprising: • four wheels for movement (2), namely two left wheels and two right wheels; • a hollow chassis (3) delimiting a chamber (30), connected to the drive wheels (2), the left wheels being placed on the same edge of the chassis (3) and the right wheels being placed on the same edge of the chassis (3) opposite to the edge receiving the left wheels; • at least one platform (4), positioned above the chamber (30) of the chassis (3), • at least one propulsion system (100) configured to allow the drive of the four wheels (2) of movement, said propulsion system (100) being disposed in the chamber (30) of the chassis (3); said propulsion system (100) comprising: • at least two traction geared motors (101), each connected to a pair of travel wheels (2), each pair of travel wheels (2) being placed on an opposite edge of the chassis (3) facing each other, each traction geared motor (101) comprising a motor part (101 A) housed entirely in the chamber and a reduction part (101 B) protruding, from the chamber, at least partly outside the chassis to be coupled to a travel wheel (2); • at least one battery (102) arranged in the chassis, under the platform (4); at least two chain systems (103), each chain system (103) connecting two drive wheels (2) located on the same edge of the chassis (3), each chain system (103) being configured to synchronize the rotation of the drive wheels (2) on the same edge.

2. Robotic platform (1) according to claim 1, wherein said propulsion system (100) comprises two traction geared motors (101), and one or two batteries (102) configured to power the traction geared motors (101), each of the traction geared motors (101) enabling the movement of two travel wheels (2) from the same edge of the chassis.

3. Robotic platform (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the chain systems (103) are arranged outside the chassis with respect to each edge.

4. Robotic platform (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a traction geared motor (101) is disposed at the front of the chamber and drives in rotation a front wheel of a first edge, left or right, said front wheel of the first edge being integral with a ring itself integral with its hub, and being connected to the rear wheel of the same first edge by means of one of the chain systems (103), said rear wheel of the first edge being itself integral with its own ring integral with its hub, so as to drive in rotation said rear wheel of the first edge;and a second traction geared motor (101) is disposed at the rear of the chamber and drives in rotation a rear wheel of a second side, opposite to the first side, said rear wheel of the second side being integral with a sprocket itself integral with its hub, and being connected to the front wheel of the same second side by means of the other of the chain systems (103), said front wheel of the second side being itself integral with its own sprocket integral with its hub, so as to drive in rotation said front wheel of the second side.;

5. Robotic platform (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein at least one battery (102) is housed in a respective bay (104), said at least one battery (102) being rackable in the bay (104) and removable.

6. Robotic platform (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising two tensioning roller systems (109), namely a first pinion and a second pinion, the first pinion being interposed between the two left-hand travel wheels (2) and the second pinion being interposed between the two wheels (2) right of displacement, the tensioning roller systems (109) being respectively connected to a chain system (103), said tensioning roller systems being configured to tension said chain systems (103).

7. Robotic platform (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the chassis (3) also houses a GPS box, a motor controller for each motor (101), a main controller, an Ethernet router, an inertial sensor.

8. Robotic platform (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the chamber (30) has a maximum width along the transverse axis (Y) of 0.40 m, the width of the chamber being in particular about 0.37 m, a maximum length along the longitudinal axis (X) of about 1.10 m, the length of the chamber being about 1.02 m, and a maximum height along the vertical axis (Z) of about 0.35 m, the height of the chamber being in particular about 0.32 m.

9. Robotic platform (1) according to claim 8, having a ground clearance of about 0.14 m.

10. Robotic platform (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 wherein the platform (4) is removable on said chassis (3).

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