Adaptable operation for a robotic work tool, such as a robotic lawn mower
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic tools, such as robotic lawn mowers, are not adequately adapted for secondary modes of operation that require carrying additional equipment or attachments, and they often necessitate complex systems designed for industrial use, which are not suitable for household applications.
Innovation Solution
A robotic working tool system that includes a robotic tool with an attachment receiver, a controller, and sensors to detect the attachment's characteristics, allowing the tool to switch operation modes based on the attachment's aspects, such as weight, and adapt its navigation and functionality accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a robotic tool is designed for a single primary function, then it operates efficiently in that specific mode, but it lacks versatility to perform secondary functions or carry attachments
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic tool is designed with a universal attachment receiver that can accommodate various types of attachments (containers, tools, equipment), allowing a single device to perform multiple functions including cutting, carrying, and transporting operations without requiring separate specialized systems for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts its operation mode based on the detected attachment characteristics. The controller automatically adjusts navigation parameters, speed, and operational behavior in real-time according to the attached equipment's properties, enabling the same hardware to optimize performance across different operational contexts
2Adaptability or versatility
If a robotic tool carries additional attachments or equipment, then its functionality and versatility improve, but its weight and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes operational parameters such as navigation speed, acceleration, and path planning based on the detected attachment weight. When heavier attachments are detected, the controller automatically adjusts motor power output and movement characteristics to maintain efficiency while accommodating the increased load
3Reliability
If the robotic tool automatically adapts its operation based on attachment characteristics, then operational efficiency and safety improve, but the complexity of the control system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic tool performs self-characterization by automatically detecting and analyzing attachment properties through integrated sensors. The system self-configures its operational parameters and navigation behavior based on this detected information without requiring external programming or manual intervention, reducing the burden on the control system while maintaining high adaptability
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2~3B
Figure 4
AI summary
A robotic working tool system (200) comprising a robotic working tool (100) comprising a work tool (160), an attachment receiver (310) arranged to receive an attachment (320) and a controller (110), the controller (110) being configured to receive information regarding an attachment (320) being received, and in response thereto adapt change the operation of the robotic working tool (100) to operate in an attachment operating mode, and to determine an aspect of the attachment (320) and adapt the operation in the attachment operating mode to accommodate for the determined aspect.