Autonomous Drive Device for Wheel-Equipped Apparatuses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for autonomous drive of wheel-equipped apparatuses, such as wheelchairs, are either expensive due to the use of specialized components or require complex installations that are not adaptable to various drive systems.
Innovation Solution
A device and method for autonomous drive that can be easily installed on wheel-equipped apparatuses with existing electric drive units, allowing for autonomous operation without the need for expensive specialized components or complex installations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If specialized autonomous drive components (e.g., 3D LIDAR units) are used, then autonomous navigation capability is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a camera module that can serve both as a visual sensor for autonomous navigation and as a standard imaging device. By making the sensor universal, the system achieves autonomous capability without requiring specialized expensive components like 3D LIDAR, thus resolving the contradiction between automation extent and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using expensive specialized sensors, the system employs standard camera modules that are widely available and cost-effective. The camera captures visual information that is then processed to achieve autonomous navigation, effectively copying the function of expensive specialized sensors using affordable alternatives.
2Quantity of substance
If kit-type drive units with manual control systems are used, then device cost is reduced, but autonomous operation capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the manual control kit-type drive unit with an autonomous navigation module comprising a camera and processing unit. The processing unit intercepts control signals, processes visual data, and generates autonomous navigation commands, effectively combining manual and autonomous control capabilities in a single integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing unit acts as an intermediary between the manual control system and the drive unit. It receives both manual control signals and camera input, processes this information, and generates appropriate drive commands. This intermediary enables the transition from manual to autonomous operation without requiring a complete system replacement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If autonomous drive systems are installed on existing wheel-equipped apparatuses, then adaptability is improved, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous drive system is divided into separate functional modules: a camera module, a processing unit, and an integration layer that interfaces with existing drive control systems. This segmentation allows each module to be independently installed and configured, reducing overall installation complexity while maintaining adaptability to various drive systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing unit is designed with universal interfaces that can communicate with different types of drive control systems. By using standardized communication protocols and flexible integration architecture, the system achieves broad adaptability without requiring complex custom installation procedures for each drive system type.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device (200) for autonomous drive of a wheel-equipped apparatus (110), said wheel-equipped apparatus (110) comprising drive means (220) operationally connected to control means (210) adapted to control said drive means (220), said control means (210) being adapted to be operated manually by a user,said device (200) is adapted to be operationally connected to said drive means (220), said device (200) comprising storage means (340) adapted to store at least one electric signal corresponding to at least one manual control operated by the user on said control means (210), and wherein said device (200) is adapted to autonomously control said drive means (220), as an alternative to said control means (210), by means of said at least one electric signal stored in said storage means (340).