Autonomous valet parking robot AMR

Abstract

An autonomous mobile robot (AMR) suitable for valet parking applications comprises a chassis and frame 101, drive wheels 102 with high torque motors, and a dedicated lifting mechanism. The lifting sy

Description

Automated valet parking systems are increasingly being employed to optimize space utilization and improve the efficiency of parking operations. Traditional parking systems require significant human intervention and are limited by the need for manual handling of vehicles. Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) have the potential to revolutionize valet parking by automating the process, thus reducing the need for human involvement and enhancing the overall efficiency and safety of parking operations. However, existing solutions often fail to meet the compactness and load-bearing requirements necessary for effective implementation in constrained spaces. CONTRASTING CURRENT AMR SOLOTTIONS: Current automated valet parking market offerings encompass diverse AMRs, each presenting distinct features. Many AMRs tend to be larger and possess restricted load capacities, rendering them less ideal for compact spaces and heavier vehicles. These systems frequently employ intricate lifting and movement mechanisms, potentially compromising reliability and necessitating higher maintenance efforts. DIFFERENCES AND ADVANTAGES

[0001] Compact Design: Unlike other AMRs, the present invention maintains a height not exceeding 100mm, making it suitable for operation in low-clearance environments.

[0002] High Load Capacity: Capable of lifting and transporting vehicles up to 3 tons, this AMR surpasses many existing solutions in terms of load-bearing capability.

[0003] Efficiency and Reliability: The integration of high-torque motors, advanced sensors, and a robust control system ensures precise and efficient operation with minimal maintenance.

[0004] Battery Life: The high-density lithium-ion battery system provides up to 8 hours of continuous operation, which is significantly longer than many other market options.

[0005] Additional Stability: The inclusion of four caster wheels with a load capacity of 200kg each adds stability and enhances load distribution. SUMMARY The present invention provides a Valet Parking Robot AMR designed to address the limitations of current automated parking systems. This AMR is capable of handling a load capacity of 3 tons while maintaining a height not exceeding 100mm. The system is designed with a robust chassis and frame constructed from high-strength materials, ensuring durability and stability. It features compact drive wheels with high-torque motors that provide efficient and precise movement. The AMR is equipped with a gear mechanism for lifting vehicles, driven by two servo motors and four lifting legs. A high-density lithium-ion battery system powers the robot, providing sufficient energy for up to 8 hours of continuous operation. Additionally, four caster wheels with a load capacity of 200kg each are incorporated to provide extra stability and support. The control system comprises advanced microcontrollers, proximity sensors, LIDAR, and cameras, enabling real-time navigation, obstacle detection, and communication. The AMR also incorporates wireless communication modules for remote operation and monitoring. This combination of features ensures the robot's reliability and efficiency in automated valet parking, significantly enhancing operational productivity. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The valet parking robot AMR consists of the following key components:

[0006] Chassis and Frame: Constructed from high-strength steel or aluminum alloy to provide a robust structure capable of supporting heavy loads while maintaining a compact height.

[0007] Drive Wheels: The AMR uses mecanum or omni-wheels, allowing for high maneuverability in tight spaces. These wheels are powered by integrated high-torque motors.

[0008] Motors: High-torque, low-profile brushless DC motors are used to drive the wheels, ensuring efficient and powerful movement of the robot.

[0009] Gear Mechanism for Lifting: The AMR uses a gear mechanism for lifting vehicles, driven by two servo motors. The lifting mechanism consists of four lifting legs, with two of them connected to the gear mechanism to facilitate the lifting process.

[0010] Battery System: The power system includes a high-density lithium-ion battery pack with a voltage of 48V and a capacity of approximately 850Ah, providing up to 8 hours of continuous operation.

[0011] Control System: The control system is based on advanced microcontrollers and includes proximity sensors, LIDAR, and cameras for navigation and obstacle detection.

[0012] Sensors: The robot is equipped with various sensors, including proximity sensors, LIDAR, and cameras, to ensure accurate navigation and safety during operation.

[0013] Navigation System: A GPS module is integrated into the control system to provide precise location tracking and navigation.

[0014] Communication System: Wireless communication modules are included to enable remote control and monitoring of the robot.

[0015] Safety Features: The AMR includes an emergency stop mechanism and various safety sensors to ensure safe operation in all conditions.

[0016] Caster Wheels: Four caster wheels, each with a load capacity of 200kg, are included to provide additional stability and load distribution. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 1. FIG. 1: Isometric view of the valet parking robot AMR in the closed position of the lifting leg. 2 FIG. 2: Isometric view of the valet parking robot AMR in the open position of the lifting leg. 3 FIG. 3: Isometric view from the bottom of the valet parking robot AMR. 4. FIG. 4: Top view of the valet parking robot AMR. 5. FIG. 5: Side view of the valet parking robot AMR in open position of lifting leg. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The valet parking robot AMR has been designed to address the constraints of height and load capacity for automated valet parking. Here is a detailed description of the preferred embodiments:

[0026] Chassis and Frame

[101] : The chassis and frame are constructed from high-strength steel or aluminum alloy to provide a robust structure capable of supporting heavy loads while maintaining a compact height of not more than 100mm. The compact design allows the robot to operate in low-clearance environments, such as underground parking garages and other confined spaces.

[0027] Drive Wheels

[102] : The AMR uses mecanum or omni-wheels, which allow for high maneuverability in tight spaces. These wheels are driven by high-torque, low-profile brushless DC motors

[0008] , ensuring efficient and powerful movement. The ability to move omnidirectionally provides significant advantages in navigating through tight parking spaces and aligning precisely with vehicles.

[0028] Gear Mechanism for Lifting

[103] : The lifting mechanism utilizes a gear mechanism driven by two servo motors. The lifting system consists of four legs, with two of them connected to the gear mechanism. This configuration allows for stable and balanced lifting of vehicles weighing up to 3 tons. The gear mechanism ensures smooth and controlled lifting and lowering of vehicles, reducing the risk of damage during operation.

[0029] Control System

[104] : The control system is based on advanced microcontrollers and integrates various sensors, including proximity sensors, LIDAR, and cameras

[0012] , These components work together to provide real-time navigation and obstacle detection. The sensors enable the AMR to detect its surroundings accurately, avoid obstacles, and ensure safe and efficient operation.

[0030] Navigation System

[104] : The integrated GPS module provides precise location tracking and navigation capabilities. This feature is crucial for ensuring that the AMR can navigate through complex parking environments and locate available parking spaces accurately.

[0031] Communication System

[104] : Wireless communication modules enable remote control and monitoring of the AMR. Operators can control the robot remotely, monitor its status, and make adjustments as necessary. This capability enhances the flexibility and usability of the AMR in various parking scenarios.

[0032] Safety Features

[105] : The AMR is equipped with various safety mechanisms, including an emergency stop function and multiple safety sensors. These features ensure safe operation under different conditions and provide immediate response options in case of emergencies.

[0033] Caster Wheels

[106] : Four caster wheels are included to provide

Claims

[0017] An autonomous mobile robot (AMR) for valet parking, comprising:• A chassis and frame [0006] constructed from high-strength materials;• Compact drive wheels [0007] equipped with high-torque motors [0008];• A gear mechanism for lifting loads up to 3 tons, driven by two servo motors [0009];• Four lifting legs, with two connected to the gear mechanism;• A lithium-ion battery system [0010] with a voltage of 48V and a capacity of approximately 850Ah providing up to 8 hours of continuous operation;• A control system [0011] including microcontrollers, proximity sensors, LIDAR, and cameras;• A GPS module [0013] for navigation;• Wireless communication modules [0014] for remote control and monitoring;• Safety mechanisms [0015] including an emergency stop and various safety sensors;• Four caster wheels [0016], each with a load capacity of 200kg.[0018] The AMR of claim [0017], wherein the chassis and frame [0006] are designed to maintain a height not exceeding 100mm.[0019] The AMR of claim [0017], wherein the drive wheels [0007] are mecanum or omni-wheels to provide enhanced maneuverability.[0020] The AMR of claim [0017], wherein the gear mechanism [0009] is controlled by two servo motors to lift and lower the vehicle.[0021] The AMR of claim [0017], wherein the control system [0011] is configured for real-time navigation and obstacle detection.[0022] The AMR of claim [0017], wherein the communication system [0014] enables remote operation and monitoring of the robot.

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