Material-agnostic robotic platform for industrialized construction

Abstract

An exemplary system for a robotic work platform of the present disclosure comprises a linear motion system having a linear motion track extending across a length of the robotic work platform on opposing sides, wherein the linear motion system further comprises a robotic track positioned between the linear motion track on the opposing sides and a load-bearing structure engaged with the robotic track; a modular platform surface; a modular platform support frame underneath the modular platform surface that is supported by the linear motion system; and / or one or more temporary anchors positionable on the modular platform surface.

Description

Docket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540)MATERIAL-AGNOSTIC ROBOTIC PLATFORM FOR INDUSTRIALIZED CONSTRUCTIONCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to co-pending U.S. provisional application entitled, “Material-Agnostic Robotic-Platform for Industrialized Construction,” having application number 63 / 81 1 ,053, filed May 23, 2025, and co-pending U.S. provisional application entitled “Material-Agnostic Robotic-Platform for Industrialized Construction,” having application number 63 / 716,648, filed November 5, 2024, each of which is entirely incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND

[0002] Robotics hold immense potential to transform the industrialized construction sector by enhancing productivity, drawing on its similarities with the manufacturing industry. However, the unique project-based nature of construction and the demand for customized building designs present substantial technological hurdles for incorporating robotics into industrialized construction activities. Reprogramming robotic systems for each specific task and project can be challenging and expensive. Moreover, there is a notable gap between Building Information Modeling — the Architectural, Engineering, and Construction industry’s standard software for creating and managing building designs — and the robotic software suites provided by robotics manufacturers for programming these systems. This disconnect introduces a major obstacle to the adoption of robotics in industrialized construction, compounded by a lack of research focused on bridging this gap.Docket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540)SUMMARY

[0003] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and related methods for a robotic work platform. One such system comprises a linear motion system having a linear motion track extending across a length of the robotic work platform on opposing sides, wherein the linear motion system further comprises a robotic track positioned between the linear motion track on the opposing sides and a load-bearing structure engaged with the robotic track; a modular platform surface; a modular platform support frame underneath the modular platform surface that is supported by the linear motion system; and / or one or more temporary anchors positionable on the modular platform surface.

[0004] In one or more aspects for such systems, the linear motion track comprises roller conveyer belts; the linear motion track comprises a linear rail system; the robotic track comprises a linear actuator and a motor linked to a hardware controller that is configured to track a location of load-bearing structure on the robotic track; the loadbearing structure comprises a beam; the modular platform support frame comprises multiple load-bearing ribs extending along a width of the modular platform surface; the modular platform support frame comprises 8 load-bearing ribs; the modular platform surface comprises individual platform surface modules that are supported by two loadbearing ribs; the modular platform surface comprises individual platform surface modules; the individual platform surface modules comprise stainless steel plates; the one or more temporary anchors comprise one or more electromagnetic anchors that are configured to generate a non-permanent magnetic field; the one or more electromagnetic anchors are composed of rigid, nonmagnetic structural elements; and / or the one or more temporary anchors comprise one or more pneumatic anchors.Docket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540)

[0005] In various embodiments, the system may also comprise a leveling mechanism positioned underneath the modular platform surface and attached to one or more load-bearing ribs and / or one or more robotic stations positioned at a perimeter of the modular platform surface, among other features.

[0006] The present disclosure also presents related methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable mediums as disclosed herein. Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will be or become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following drawings and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages be included within this description and be within the scope of the present disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Many aspects of the present disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, in the drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views.

[0008] FIG. 1A is an overhead view of an exemplary robotic work platform in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 1 B shows a computer-aided drawing of an overhead perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the robotic work platform of FIG. 1 A.

[0010] FIG. 2 shows an overhead view of the robotic work platform of FIG. 1 A with the modular platform surface transparently showing components underneath theDocket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540) modular platform surface, in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 3 shows a computer-aided drawing of an exemplary modular platform support frame in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 4 shows a computer-aided drawing of a leveling mechanism in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 5 shows a computer-aided drawing of an electromagnetic anchor in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 6 shows an exemplary multi-robot station of the present disclosure that is operable with the robotic work platform in accordance with various embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary computing system or device that can be utilized for systems and methods of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] Before the present disclosure is described in greater detail, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particular embodiments described, and as such may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting, since the scope of the present disclosure will be limited only by the appended claims.

[0017] The present disclosure presents a robotic work platform that accommodates the framing of both wood and light-gauge steel panels, as well as three-dimensional (3D) printing. An exemplary platform expands the working space of a robotic station by providing a heavy-duty, modular, movable platform that can be synchronized with the other robots in the station. The heavy-duty nature allows theDocket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540) platform to move heavy construction components (e.g., carrying a one ton weight) necessary for assembling and printing larger construction components. The modularity of the work platform surface allows for ease of expansion and maintenance which might be necessary when welding steel components, or 3D printing with concrete mixtures. The movability of the platform provides the accuracy necessary to support robotic operation, and when combined with the modularity characteristic, it can increase the workspace (i.e., reachability) for robotic arms by simply expanding the movable platform and supporting the conveyor system.

[0018] Referring now to FIG. 1 A, an overhead view of an exemplary robotic work platform 100 is shown in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure. Further, FIG. 1 B shows a computer-aided drawing of a overhead perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the robotic work platform 100. In the figures, the exemplary robotic work platform 100 is composed of a linear motion system 110, a modular platform surface 120 supported by a load-bearing structure 130, a robotic track 140 movably engaged with the load-bearing structure 130, and temporary anchor devices 150 (e.g., electromagnetic or pneumatic anchors). Correspondingly, FIG. 2 shows an overhead view of the robotic work platform 100 with the modular platform surface 120 transparently showing components underneath the modular platform surface 120, including a load bearing structure 130 supporting the modular platform surface 120.

[0019] In use, an exemplary robotic work platform 100 can accommodate the framing of both wood and light-gauge steel panels, as well as 3D printing. The platform expands the working space of a robotic station 160 by providing a heavy-duty, modular, movable platform that can be synchronized with the other robots 170. In various non-limiting embodiments, the linear motion system 120 comprises a linearDocket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540) motion track, such as roller conveyer belts, that extend across a length of the robotic work platform on opposing sides. However, in alternative embodiments, among others, a heavy-duty linear rail system may be used in place of the roller conveyer belts. In either case, the linear motion track 110 is configured to move a modular platform surface 120 across a length of the robotic work platform 100 in a linear direction. Leveling of the linear motion system may be accomplished using shims or industrial levelers, in certain embodiments.

[0020] The use of the linear motion system 1 10 enhances the robotic work platform's integration capabilities within existing offsite prefabrication factories. It also eliminates the need for significant upgrades, such as leveling or replacing a concrete floor in the work location, which would be necessary for a platform supported by wheeled legs. By avoiding these modifications, the platform surface 120 remains level and stable during movement, meeting the stringent precision requirements of robotic operations.

[0021] The linear motion system 110 aids to maintain the robotic work platform's key attributes: high load capacity, modularity, and high-precision motion. By providing a stable foundation, the linear motion system 110 mitigates deflections caused by the substantial weight of the construction components (potentially tons for 3D printing) and the platform's structure and surface (e.g., 1.5 tons in certain implementations). This distribution of load reduces stress on the robotic station floor. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the linear motion system enhances the platform's modularity by comprising configurable modules that can extend a robotic station's reach through simple addition.

[0022] In various embodiments, the linear motion system 100 utilizes a robotic track 140 (e.g., ABB robotic track) positioned between the roller conveyor belts 110Docket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540) that is compatible with existing robotic station(s) 160, 170. In certain embodiments, the robotic track 140 may comprise a heavy-duty linear actuator and a stepper / servo motor linked to a hardware controller 180 (FIG. 2) equipped with a program that tracks the location of the robotic track and communicates / updates through wireless or hard wired links to a central controller 190 of the robotic station(s) 160, 170. In sum, an innovation of the robotic work platform 100 is in its ability to not only support multiple materials but also reduce the cost and size requirements of a robotic station 160, 170.

[0023] A primary load-bearing structure (e.g., a main beam) 130 is positioned on the robotic track 140 and is structured to transfer or move significant loads positioned on the modular platform surface 120 across the robotic track 140 and the linear motion track 1 10 (e.g., roller conveyer belts) via the modular platform surface 120. Accordingly, in various embodiments, the load-bearing structure 130 comprises a beam that supports a modular platform support frame underneath the modular platform surface 120, where the beam is coupled to a base 185 via a main column. Correspondingly, the base 185 is engaged with the robotic track 140 (e.g., via rollers or wheels). In general, the structure of the beam and related components are to remain rigid and free from bending or deformation during the assembly of heavy construction components and their frequent, repetitive movement, during use of the robotic work platform 100.

[0024] In conjunction with the load-bearing structure 130 and robotic track 140, the modular platform support frame underlies and supports the modular platform surface 120 and provides high-load capacity allowing the platform to move heavy construction components necessary for assembling and printing larger construction components. As shown in a computer-aided representation of FIG. 3, an exemplary modular platform support frame 300 comprises multiple load-bearing ribs 310. TheDocket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540) width of the load-bearing ribs 310 may be determined by a reach of the robotic arms within a robotic station 160, 170 that is positioned on an outside of the linear motion track 110 and the specific construction assembly requirements of the tasks performed in that station. In various embodiments, the ribs 1 10 are mounted on load-bearing components 320 that extend along the platform's length. Each rib 310 includes multiple anchoring points 312 to securely and precisely hold modules 122 (FIG. 1A) of the platform surface 120, where each module rests on two ribs 310, with a leveling mechanism 400 anchored to the corresponding points, as represented in FIG. 4. In various embodiments, the platform surface modules 122 includes holes through which bolts or other types of fasteners may be used to mount construction equipment to the platform surface 120.

[0025] In various embodiments, the leveling mechanism 400 enable precise adjustment of the surface shape of the platform surface 120 and level to accommodate various manufacturing requirements. This reconfigurability facilitates the assembly of diverse construction materials into different assemblies, highlighting the platform's material-agnostic nature.

[0026] The modular design of the robotic work platform 100 offers flexibility in accommodating various modular leveling platform systems. This flexibility is achieved through three key factors: (1 ) Adjustable Rib Placement: The load-bearing ribs 310 can be repositioned along the robotic work platform's length to accommodate different lengths of modular platform surfaces 122; (2) Adjustable Anchor Points: The anchor points on each rib 310 can be adjusted to accommodate different widths of modular platform surfaces 120; and (3) Extensible Support Frame: The length of the modular platform support frame 300 can be extended using additional modular components.Docket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540)

[0027] In various non-limiting embodiments, an exemplary modular platform support frame 300 comprises eight ribs 310, each carrying 16 anchoring points 312, capable of supporting 24 modular platform surfaces, in which the ribs 310 are mounted on load-bearing components 320 that extend along the platform's length, creating a flat surface for precise and smooth movement over supportive linear motion tracks (e.g., roller conveyor systems).

[0028] The platform's modularity, coupled with its system reconfigurability, allows for the flexible arrangement of smaller surfaces. By adjusting the distance, relative height, and location of platform surface modules 122, the robotic work platform 100 can adapt to specific robotic assembly needs. For instance, assembling wood-framed construction panels requires a flat surface to ensure accurate assembly. Conversely, assembling light-gauge steel construction panels, where C-steel studs are inserted into steel channels, necessitates lowering the modules carrying the steel channels. This relative height difference facilitates smooth stud insertion while maintaining the overall level of the construction panel during assembly. In addition to supporting platform reconfigurability, the modular design simplifies platform expansion by adding smaller sections, rather than replacing the entire surface. This modularity also reduces maintenance costs, as damaged modules 122 can be replaced individually, preserving the functionality of the remaining modules.

[0029] In various embodiments, the platform surface modules 122 comprise 24 (1 ' x 8' x 0.25") stainless steel plates, each mounted on four leveling mechanisms 300 that are installed into the mounting anchors 312 of the modular platform support frame 300. Such stainless steel plates 122 are configured to support the framing of wood construction panels, the welding, bolting, or riveting of steel and light-gauge steel construction systems, and provide a solid surface for high-load 3D printing.Docket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540)

[0030] To ensure precise squareness and stability during construction panel assembly, in various embodiments, the robotic work platform is equipped with one or more temporary anchors 150 that can be positioned on the platform surface 120 in order to secure a construction panel (e.g., secure corners of the construction panel) by a robotic station 160, 170. Accordingly, in various embodiments, robotic stations 160, 170 can strategically place electromagnetic anchors 150 (or other types of anchor devices, such as pneumatic anchors) at panel corners (or wherever necessary within the construction panel). In various embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the electromagnetic anchors may be composed of rigid, nonmagnetic structural elements 152 and an electromagnetic unit 154 such that the electromagnetic unit 154 can be activated to produce a magnetic field that acts to secure and lock a ferrous metallic component (e.g., metal construction panel composed of iron) to the electromagnetic anchor 150, whereby when deactivated, the magnetic field is no longer produced and the ferrous metallic component can be removed from the electromagnetic anchor 150. In various embodiments, the structural elements 152 may comprise an L-shaped bracket that can be secured to the platform surface 120 via bolts or other types of fasteners. In various embodiments, a central controller 190 may communicate with the electromagnetic anchors 150 to activate and deactivate them, as needed. In such implementations, the central controller 190 can provide precise synchronization and coordination between multiple robotic systems 160, 170 utilizing electromagnetic units 154 for accurate positioning and activation of anchors 150, and contributing to the automation of complex construction tasks. Such electromagnetic anchors 150 guarantee precise panel alignment and secure locking. The non-permanent magnetic design prevents interference with robotic sensors, actuators, and ferrous construction components, ensuring accurate placement and positioning of both steel and woodDocket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540) framing components. By leveraging electromagnetic force, these anchors 150 provide a robust and reliable locking mechanism, enhancing the overall efficiency and accuracy of automated construction processes. In alternative embodiments, pneumatic anchors may be used. Non-limiting examples include an exemplary pneumatic anchor having a battery, pressure meter, suction motor, suction cups, proximity sensors, pickup detail, and suction activation and release mechanisms and an exemplary pneumatic anchor having a suction chamber with pressurization and neutralization / release mechanisms.

[0031] Significant advantages of an exemplary robotic work platform of the present disclosure include (1 ) Reducing Cost and Size: Supporting multiple materials while minimizing the physical footprint of the robotic station within a manufacturing facility; (2) Streamlining Manufacturing: Eliminating the need for a seventh axis on industrial 6-axis robotic arms, particularly for large-scale components like construction materials; (3) Simplifying Robotic Workstations: Limiting the degrees of freedom (DoF) required for multi-robot tasks, especially in complex environments like construction. This reduction in complexity enhances operational efficiency and safety; (4) Enhancing Workplace Safety: Confining robot movement to smaller, predictable work zones, reducing the risk of unexpected interactions with human workers, even with advanced Al and computer vision systems; and (5) Promoting Human-Robot Collaboration: Fostering trust and safety by limiting robot movement and making it more predictable, enabling seamless collaboration between humans and machines.

[0032] In general, modularity of the platform surface allows for ease of expansion and maintenance which might be necessary when welding steel components, or 3D printing with concrete mixtures, while the linear motion system enables high-precision motion of the platform providing the precision necessary to support robotic operation,Docket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540) and when combined with the modularity characteristic, it can increase the workspace (i.e., reachability) or robotic arms of a robotic station by simply expanding the movable platform and supporting a conveyor system of the linear motion system.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 6, in various embodiments, an exemplary multi-robot station 160, 170 of the present disclosure that is operable with the robotic work platform 100 includes at least one robot having a movable arm that is equipped with a multifunctional end effector. In the non-limiting example of FIG. 6, two robots 160, 170 are provided with individual multifunctional end effectors 165, 175. In accordance with various embodiments, the multifunctional end effector 165 for robot 160 may be configured to perform different functions or tasks than the multifunctional end effector 175 for robot 170, may be configured to perform the same functions as the multifunctional end effector 165 for robot 160, or may be configured to perform certain functions that are similar to those of the multifunctional end effector 175 of robot 170. While a similar functionality may be performed by respective end effectors 165, 175, their configuration may be varied such that end effector component is aligned in a different direction as compared to the similar end effector component of another end effector. Additionally, while the multifunctional end effector 165 is shown coupled to robot 160, the respective multifunctional end effectors are configured to be removable and / or securable to a variety of different robots via an adaptor plate 167 of the respective robot and a mounting plate of the multifunctional end effector. Accordingly, the multifunctional end effector 165 can be removed from the adapter plate 167 of the robotic arm of robot 160 and affixed to the adapter plate 177 of the robotic arm of robot 170.

[0034] An exemplary multi-robot station may further include a computer control system 190 (“robotic controller”) that is communicatively coupled to a respective robotDocket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540)160, 170, where the robot can include one or more sensors or sensing devices, that can include imaging devices or other sensors (e.g., laser device), that provide feedback data from application of the robot and the multifunctional end effector tools. A sensor system may be comprised of any number of individual sensor systems, sensor devices, controllers, other types of components, or combination thereof, whereby the sensor system may be used to coordinate the movement and operation of the various robots within a manufacturing environment. Accordingly, a control system 190 can generate and / or provide commands to robots 160, 170 and / or robotic track controller 180 to guide operation of the multifunctional end effector mechanism(s) and / or components of the robotic work platform 100. Such commands can be based on inputs provided from sensing data from the one or more sensors of the robotic components. The control system 190 may utilize electrical and / or mechanical controls, including pneumatic, electrical, and / or hydraulic controls - differential pressure and / or expansion — to actuate elements of the applicable robots, in various embodiments. In various embodiments, the computation or determination of the platform commands can be provided by a computer processor that implements artificial intelligence models, such as fuzzy logic techniques, in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] In some embodiments, an end effector mechanism 160, 170 of an exemplary multi-robot station is specifically configured for use in construction framing procedures. In such cases, the overall system enables accurate placement of wood or metal components of a construction frame (e.g., wall frame, roofing frame, floorframe, etc.) within the robotic work platform 100 without the need for multiple ancillary devices or personnel. In addition, the systems enable the ability for fastening the wood / metal components to one another (e.g., via a nail gun component, a screwing member, etc.).Docket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540)

[0036] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary computing system or device 700 that can be utilized for systems and methods of the present disclosure. Computing system 700 includes at least one processor 710, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), coupled to memory elements 720 through a data bus 730 or other suitable circuitry. Computing system 700 stores program code within memory elements 720. Processor 710 executes the program code accessed from memory elements 720 via the data bus 730. In one aspect, computing system 700 may be implemented as a computer or other data processing system, including tablets, smartphones, or server computers that are accessed using browsers at client computers. It should be appreciated, however, that computing system 700 can be implemented in the form of any system including a processor and memory that is capable of performing the functions described within this disclosure.

[0037] Memory elements 720 include one or more physical memory devices such as, for example, a local memory and one or more storage devices. Local memory refers to random access memory (RAM) or other non-persistent memory device(s) generally used during actual execution of the program code. Storage device may be implemented as a hard disk drive (HDD), solid state drive (SSD), or other persistent data storage device. Computing system 700 may also include one or more cache memories (not shown) that provide temporary storage of at least some program code in order to reduce the number of times program code must be retrieved from storage device during execution.

[0038] Stored in the memory 720 are both data and several components that are executable by the processor 710. In particular, stored in the memory 720 and executable by the processor 710 are code for robotic based framing 740. Such code can include functionality and logic 750 for controlling operations of the robotic stationsDocket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540)160, 170 and / or hardware controller 180 of the robotic track 140. Also stored in the memory 720 may be a data store 720 and other data. The data store 725 can include framing instructions and related manufacturing parameters. In addition, an operating system may be stored in the memory 720 and executable by the processor 710.

[0039] Input / output (I / O) devices 760 such as a keyboard, a display device, and a pointing device may optionally be coupled to computing system 700. The I / O devices may be coupled to computing system 700 either directly or through intervening I / O controllers. A network adapter may also be coupled to computing system to enable computing system to become coupled to other systems, computer systems, remote printers, and / or remote storage devices through intervening private or public networks. Modems, cable modems, Ethernet cards, and wireless transceivers are examples of different types of network adapter that may be used with computing system 700.

[0040] It should be appreciated that the disclosed computer system arrangements are illustrative and many other configurations having more or fewer components are possible. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements can fall within the scope of the appended claims(s). As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0041] The components described herein can be embodied in the form of hardware, as software components that are executable by hardware, or as a combination of software and hardware. If embodied as hardware, the components described herein can be implemented as a circuit or state machine that employs any suitable hardware technology. This hardware technology can include one or moreDocket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540) microprocessors, discrete logic circuits having logic gates for implementing various logic functions upon an application of one or more data signals, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) having appropriate logic gates, programmable logic devices (e.g., field-programmable gate array (FPGAs), and complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs)).

[0042] In this respect, the term “executable” means a program file that is in a form that can ultimately be run by the processor. Examples of executable programs can be, for example, a compiled program that can be translated into machine code in a format that can be loaded into a random access portion of one or more of the memory devices and run by the processor, code that can be expressed in a format such as object code that is capable of being loaded into a random access portion of the one or more memory devices and executed by the processor, or code that can be interpreted by another executable program to generate instructions in a random access portion of the memory devices to be executed by the processor. An executable program can be stored in any portion or component of the memory devices including, for example, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard drive, solid-state drive, USB flash drive, memory card, optical disc such as compact disc (CD) or digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk, magnetic tape, or other memory components.

[0043] Any logic or application described herein that includes software or code can be embodied in any non-transitory computer-readable medium for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system such as a processor in a computer system or other system. In this sense, the logic can include statements including instructions and declarations that can be fetched from the computer-readable medium and executed by the instruction execution system. In the context of the present disclosure, a "computer-readable medium" can be any medium that can contain, store,Docket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540) or maintain the logic or application described herein for use by or in connection with the instruction execution system. Moreover, a collection of distributed computer- readable media located across a plurality of computing devices (e.g., storage area networks or distributed or clustered filesystems or databases) can also be collectively considered as a single non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0044] The computer-readable medium can include any one of many physical media such as magnetic, optical, or semiconductor media. More specific examples of a suitable computer-readable medium would include, but are not limited to, magnetic tapes, magnetic floppy diskettes, magnetic hard drives, memory cards, solid-state drives, USB flash drives, or optical discs. Also, the computer-readable medium can be a random-access memory (RAM) including static random-access memory (SRAM) and dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), or magnetic random-access memory (MRAM). In addition, the computer-readable medium can be a read-only memory (ROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or other type of memory device.

[0045] It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singularforms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, or Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., can be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X; Y; Z; X or Y; X or Z; Y or Z; X, Y, or Z; etc.). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.Docket T19551 W0001 (222112-2540)

[0046] As will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this disclosure, each of the individual embodiments described and illustrated herein has discrete components and features which may be readily separated from or combined with the features of any of the other several embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Any recited method can be carried out in the order of events recited or in any other order that is logically possible. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for purposes of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. It is also possible in the present disclosure that steps can be executed in different sequence where this is logically possible.

[0047] A number of embodiments of the invention have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of skill in the art to which the disclosed invention belongs. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific embodiments of the present disclosure described herein. Such equivalents are intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

[0048] It should be emphasized that the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure are merely possible examples of implementations, merely set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the disclosure. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiment(s) without departing substantially from the principles of the disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure and protected by the following claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:1 . A robotic work platform comprising: a linear motion system having a linear motion track extending across a length of the robotic work platform on opposing sides, wherein the linear motion system further comprises a robotic track positioned between the linear motion track on the opposing sides and a load-bearing structure engaged with the robotic track; a modular platform surface; a modular platform support frame underneath the modular platform surface that is supported by the linear motion system; and one or more temporary anchors positionable on the modular platform surface.

2. The robotic work platform of claim 1 , wherein the linear motion track comprises roller conveyer belts.

3. The robotic work platform of claim 1 , wherein the linear motion track comprises a linear rail system.

4. The robotic work platform of claim 1 , wherein the robotic track comprises a linear actuator and a motor linked to a hardware controller that is configured to track a location of load-bearing structure on the robotic track.

5. The robotic work platform of claim 1 , wherein the load-bearing structure comprises a beam.

6. The robotic work platform of claim 1 , wherein the modular platform support frame comprises multiple load-bearing ribs extending along a width of the modular platform surface.

7. The robotic work platform of claim 6, wherein the modular platform support frame comprises 8 load-bearing ribs.

8. The robotic work platform of claim 6, wherein the modular platform surface comprises individual platform surface modules that are supported by two load-bearing ribs.

9. The robotic work platform of claim 6, further comprising a leveling mechanism positioned underneath the modular platform surface and attached to one or more loadbearing ribs.

10. The robotic work platform of claim 1 , wherein the modular platform surface comprises individual platform surface modules.

11. The robotic work platform of claim 10, wherein the individual platform surface modules comprise stainless steel plates.

12. The robotic work platform of claim 1 , wherein the one or more temporary anchors comprise one or more electromagnetic anchors that are configured to generate a non-permanent magnetic field.

13. The robotic work platform of claim 12, wherein the one or more electromagnetic anchors are composed of rigid, nonmagnetic structural elements.

14. The robotic work platform of claim 1 , further comprising one or more robotic stations positioned at a perimeter of the modular platform surface.

15. The robotic work platform of claim 1 , wherein the one or more temporary anchors comprise one or more pneumatic anchors.

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