Smart phone-carrier robot for morning routine regulation and sleep hygiene

Abstract

An autonomous mobile robot is provided to support healthier smartphone usage habits by physically removing the device from close proximity during sleep and morning routines The robot is designed to carry a user's mobile phone away from the bedside to a designated area in the room once the user initiates a sleep mode or scheduled timer. This system addresses behavioral tendencies of users who engage in extended smartphone use before sleeping and immediately upon waking— activities known to disrupt natural circadian rhythms and sleep quality. By limiting immediate access to the device upon waking, the robot encourages delayed interaction with digital content, promoting mindful morning routines. The robot may be equipped with autonomous navigation, a secure phone holder, and a user-controlled interface to schedule movements.

Description

[0001] Smart Phone-Carrier Robot for Morning Routine Regulation and Sleep Hygiene

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to mobile robotics and automated device management systems. More specifically, it pertains to a mobile delivery robot designed for handling and relocating personal electronic devices, such as smartphones, to support healthier user habits and enhance personal comfort and well-being.

[0004] Background of the Invention

[0005] In the field of mobile robotics, several inventions have been developed to assist in object transportation, particularly for commercial and service environments. Existing patents primarily focus on delivery functions such as transporting food, documents, or packages either outdoors or within structured environments like restaurants, hotels, or office buildings. However, none of these solutions are optimized for compact personal spaces such as bedrooms, nor are they designed to address behavioral patterns related to smartphone usage.

[0006] Below is an overview of relevant patents and their limitations in relation to the present invention:

[0007] US Patent No. 11 ,200,532 B2 - Delivery Robot and Method of Operation

[0008] This patent discloses a delivery robot designed for outdoor navigation and interaction with users during deliveries. The robot authenticates users, initiates transactions, and enables access to a compartment. Its intended application is for the delivery of large items, such as food or drinks. Due to its size, functionality, and environmental requirements, this robot is unsuitable for operation inside bedrooms or small indoor spaces, nor can it securely carry and manage smartphones.

[0009] US Patent No. 9,535,421 B1 - Mobile Delivery Robot with Interior Cargo Space

[0010] This invention presents a mobile robot with interior cargo compartments housed within a vertically elongated cylindrical body. A user interface is located in the upper portion of the robot, designed for access in front-facing environments. While suitable for general delivery tasks, the design does not support ergonomic smartphone placement or operation within tight personal spaces. The robot lacks modularity, flexible height adjustment, or wireless charging features specific to mobile device management.

[0011] US Patent No. 2018 / 0370028 A1 - Autonomous Robotic Aide

[0012] This patent describes an autonomous robotic assistant capable of transporting and lifting objects within a user’s environment. It includes a lifting mechanism for retrieving items from the floor. However, its form factor and size are more suited to general assistance rather than specific management of personal electronic devices. The robot is not equipped with smartphone holders, wireless charging components, or adjustable height mechanisms, limiting its suitability for bedside operation.

[0013] China Patent No. CN110076802A - Service Robot

[0014] This service robot is primarily designed for commercial use in customer service environments such as banks or reception areas. It features a display for interaction but lacks the mobility, compact form, and specialized device management features needed for smartphone-focused tasks in domestic bedrooms.

[0015] US Patent No. 11 ,325,250 B2 - Robot with Rotatable Arm

[0016] This mobile robot operates in retail or office environments and includes a rotatable ring and extendable mechanical arm. While versatile, its configuration is optimized for workspace functions and lacks the precision, scale, and ergonomics required for smartphone handling in personal living spaces.

[0017] Summary of the Invention

[0018] The invention integrates mobile robotics, smart charging, energy management, and behavioral design principles into a single, user-friendly system that enhances personal wellness through technological assistance. Description

[0019] The present invention relates to an autonomous mobile robot specifically designed to manage the physical location and accessibility of personal electronic devices, particularly smartphones and smartwatches, within indoor environments such as bedrooms. The primary objective of the invention is to promote healthier digital habits by automatically removing smartphones from the user’s immediate reach during sleep and early morning hours, thereby reducing screen time and improving sleep hygiene.

[0020] The robot is equipped with a compact motorized chassis for mobility, a height- adjustable telescopic column, and a phone-holding mechanism capable of securely gripping one or more mobile devices in a vertical orientation. The phone holder includes an integrated wireless charging module to maintain device power without requiring user interaction.

[0021] In addition, the robot incorporates an internal battery that provides autonomous operation. When positioned at its designated resting location, the robot automatically connects to a charging base, ensuring that it always has sufficient energy both for its mobility and for charging the mobile devices placed in its holders.

[0022] Additional features of the invention include a voice-controlled or app-based interface, room navigation sensors for obstacle detection, and a programmable timer system to schedule the movement of the robot. The robot may be configured to autonomously move to a predefined location (e.g., a corner of the room or under a desk) once the user activates sleep mode or at a scheduled time. This movement effectively removes the phone from immediate access and encourages the user to delay digital engagement upon waking.

[0023] The reviewed patents highlight an industry focus on logistics and commercial service automation. In contrast, the present invention addresses a novel use case: promoting healthy smartphone habits by removing immediate access to the device during sleep and early morning routines. The invention introduces a compact mobile robot specifically designed to carry one or more smartphones and smartwatches in a safe, ergonomic, and intelligent manner. Key differentiators include:

[0024] • A secure phone holder with vertical orientation slots

[0025] • Wireless charging capability for two smartphones and up to two smartwatches

[0026] • Adjustable height using a telescopic lifting mechanism, allowing the robot to operate under beds or desks

[0027] • Autonomous indoor navigation with obstacle avoidance and room mapping

[0028] • Voice command compatibility and scheduled operation based on user sleep / wake routines

[0029] • A design optimized for small living spaces, enabling operation without user interaction

[0030] These features combine to form a unique solution not currently available in the prior art. The invention bridges the gap between personal wellness, smart device usage, and indoor mobile robotics.

[0031] List of Components

[0032] FIG. 1 presents an exploded view of the components that make up the robot, which are listed below.

[0033] • 1 : Robot chassis

[0034] • 2: Motor mount

[0035] • 3: Motor DC

[0036] • 4: Omnidirectional wheel

[0037] • 5: Linear actuator motor

[0038] • 6: Linear actuator

[0039] • 7: Fixed body of the robot

[0040] • 8: Movable body 1 of the robot • 9: Movable body 2 of the robot

[0041] • 10: LiDAR sensor

[0042] • 11 : Servomotor

[0043] • 12: Servomotor mount

[0044] • 13: Ultrasonic sensor

[0045] • 14: Sabertooth 2x12A motor driver

[0046] • 15: Raspberry Pi 4

[0047] • 16: Stepper motor driver

[0048] • 17: LiPo battery 8S 8000mAh

[0049] • 18: Voltage regulators

[0050] • 19: Wireless charger

[0051] • 20: Wireless charger

[0052] • 21 : Phone Holding

[0053] Mechanical Configuration

[0054] Referring to FIG. 2, the robot features a circular-triangular base configuration which, combined with a system of three omnidirectional drive motors, enables free movement in multiple directions and facilitates obstacle avoidance. Each side of the base measures approximately 35 cm. The robot’s body is primarily constructed from ABS material, reinforced with metallic components to increase mechanical strength and structural durability.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 3, the chassis comprises a fixed body that provides additional stability and two movable bodies that allow adjustment of the overall height through a centrally positioned telescopic linear actuator. The actuator consists of three stages that extend or retract by means of an integrated motor, controlled by a driver that enables bidirectional rotation. The maximum height achieved by the robot with the actuator fully extended is approximately 75 cm, while the minimum height, with the actuator fully retracted, is about 30 cm.

[0056] Phone Holding Mechanism

[0057] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the robot is equipped with two trays designed for holding smartphones and an additional bar-type support for two smartwatches. Each tray is dimensioned to accommodate a smartphone of up to 7 inches, allowing approximately 40% of the device body to be inserted to ensure mechanical stability and prevent accidental falls. This arrangement further guarantees that the Qi wireless charging module located on the rear side of the smartphone is properly aligned with the wireless charger integrated into the robot’s structure.

[0058] Similarly, smartwatches are placed on a bar-type support located at the top of the robot, which enables proper positioning and alignment for wireless charging, ensuring both device security and charging efficiency.

[0059] Charging Function

[0060] Referring now to FIG. 5, the wireless chargers integrated into the robot are Qi- compatible, supporting most smartphones and smartwatches. This design enables proper distribution and alignment of the charging modules within the robot’s structure. Owing to its high-capacity battery, the robot is capable of simultaneously charging up to four devices (two smartphones and two smartwatches) without operational issues.

[0061] Navigation and Movement

[0062] As shown in FIG. 6, the robot is equipped with three direct current motors which, in combination with omnidirectional wheels, allow omnidirectional movement without difficulty. Each motor is coupled to a gearbox to provide sufficient torque for mobility operations. As shown in FIG. 7, the navigation system integrates a LiDAR sensor to generate a map of the working area, along with an ultrasonic sensor mounted on a servomotor for proximity detection and obstacle avoidance.

[0063] The system applies SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) techniques to generate a real-time map as the robot moves. Furthermore, through mobile applications, users may configure waiting points and delivery points for the mobile devices.

[0064] User Interaction

[0065] The robot can be configured and controlled through a mobile application by means of its Wi-Fi connectivity integrated into the Raspberry Pi 4. The system may also be associated with a voice assistant responding to commands and operating seamlessly within a smart home environment.

[0066] Additionally, the robot may incorporate a depth camera to enable gesturebased control, thereby expanding the available modes of user interaction.

[0067] Power and Battery System

[0068] Referring to FIG. 5, the robot’s power system consists of an 8S 8000 mAh lithium polymer (LiPo) battery, which provides the required autonomy for both robot mobility and device charging. Battery recharging is performed through a docking station located at the robot’s designated resting position. Under normal conditions, including the daily charging of two smartphones and two smartwatches, the system’s autonomy is estimated at approximately 8 to 10 hours before requiring a full recharge.

[0069] Software and Control Logic

[0070] The robot’s control software is implemented in Python and executed on Raspberry Pi 4. It is designed to manage the robot’s mobility as well as its interaction with electronic devices.

[0071] The basic operating algorithm consists of the following stages:

[0072] • Wake-up detection: the system remains in standby mode until the scheduled wake-up time is reached via the mobile application or until a voice command is received.

[0073] • Device pick-up: the robot moves to the pick-up area, raises the platform using the linear actuator, and secures the smartphone or smartwatch within the holding mechanism.

[0074] • Movement: once the device is secured, the platform is lowered to improve stability, and the robot proceeds to the waiting area or charging station.

[0075] • Delivery and charging: the device is positioned onto the wireless charging module, initiating charging automatically.

[0076] • Return: upon reaching the programmed schedule or upon user request (via the mobile app or voice command), the robot repeats the process in reverse to return the device. Optionally, the system allows synchronization with the mobile application, through which delivery and return schedules can be configured, along with additional instructions, including manual control of movement between pick-up, delivery, and charging points.

[0077] Use Scenarios I Embodiments

[0078] Various use scenarios illustrate the practical application of the present invention:

[0079] Night routine: at the end of the day, the user places their smartphone and / or smartwatch into the robot’s holders. Through the mobile application, a timer is set to activate night mode. The robot autonomously moves to the charging station located beyond the user’s immediate reach and initiates the wireless charging process.

[0080] Morning routine: at wake-up time, the device remains at the charging station out of reach from the bed, thereby encouraging the user to get up to retrieve it. This behavior reduces early-morning screen exposure and promotes healthier sleep habits.

[0081] Emergency early return: in case of need, the user may request, via a voice command, that the robot immediately return with the device. The robot moves to the delivery point and remains there until the user retrieves or replaces the device before returning to the charging station.

[0082] Scheduled operation in home environments: the system can be configured to automatically transport devices at specific times, integrating with virtual assistants and other smart home systems for broader interaction.

[0083] Application in educational or office environments: the robot may be used to restrict access to smartphones during study sessions, meetings, or collaborative work activities, thereby ensuring participant focus and reducing digital distractions while the smartphone and / or smartwatch devices are being charged.

[0084] This invention is particularly beneficial for individuals aiming to reduce screen time, avoid immediate phone use upon waking, and enhance sleep hygiene — without necessitating major behavioral modifications. Brief Description of Drawings

[0085] [Fig 1]: Exploded view of the robot.

[0086] [Fig 2]: Perspective view of the robot.

[0087] [Fig 3]: Linear actuator for robot height control.

[0088] [Fig 4]: Phone Holding Mechanism.

[0089] [Fig 5]: Power and Battery System.

[0090] [Fig 6]: Motorized base of the robot.

[0091] [Fig 7]: LiDAR for navigation and mapping.

[0092] References:

[0093] 1. US Patent No. 11 ,200,532 B2 - Delivery Robot and Method of Operation. Describes a robot designed for outdoor navigation and user-authenticated delivery of large items.

[0094] 2. US Patent No. 9,535,421 B1 - Mobile Delivery Robot with Interior Cargo Space. Discloses a vertically elongated delivery robot with internal cargo compartments and a front-facing user interface.

[0095] 3. US Patent Application No. 2018 / 0370028 A1 - Autonomous Robotic Aide. Provides a robot capable of lifting and transporting objects, including a floorlevel retrieval mechanism.

[0096] 4. China Patent No. CN110076802A - A Kind of Service Robot Details a commercial robot used in customer-facing roles with interactive displays.

[0097] 5. US Patent No. 11 ,325,250 B2 - Robot with Rotatable Arm Introduces a robot for retail and office use with a rotatable ring and extensible mechanical arm for object manipulation.

Claims

Claims1. A mobile robotic system uniquely configured to manage and modify user smartphone interaction habits in personal living environments, the system comprising:• a mobile chassis configured for autonomous movement within indoor spaces;• a control system operatively coupled to the chassis and the smartphone holding mechanism, the control system being configured to autonomously relocate the smartphone from a location proximate to the user to a remote location within the room based on user-defined routines, sleep schedules, or behavioral triggers; wherein the mobile robotic system is specifically designed to reduce immediate post-wake smartphone usage and disrupt habitual device interaction by physically displacing the device out of reach, and wherein no existing robotic system provides this combination of behavior-driven phone relocation, integrated phone holding, and indoor autonomous mobility for the purpose of altering digital habits in bedroom environments.

2. The robotic system of claim 1 , wherein the phone holding module further comprises an integrated wireless charging unit compatible with Qi-enabled smartphones.

3. The robotic system of claim 1 , wherein the chassis comprises a telescopic column configured to adjust the vertical position of the phone holding module.

4. The robotic system of claim 1 , wherein the control system includes a voice recognition module configured to receive and execute voice commands from the user.

5. The robotic system of claim 1 , wherein the chassis and overall structure are dimensioned to allow the system to move under furniture, including beds and desks, in a low-profile mode.

6. The robotic system of claim 1 , further comprising a sensor system selected from the group consisting of ultrasonic, infrared, and LiDAR sensors, configured to detect obstacles and map the room environment.

7. The robotic system of claim 1, wherein the control system is further configured to operate according to a user-defined schedule via a mobile application.

8. The robotic system of claim 1, further comprising a secondary holder for securing and wirelessly charging at least one smartwatch.

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