Autonomous Lift Assembly for Precise Robotic Implement Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lift devices lack the ability to efficiently and autonomously perform tasks at specific target zones, especially in complex environments, due to limitations in mobility and control systems.
Innovation Solution
A lift device comprising a lift apparatus, a base assembly, and a controller, which allows for the raising and lowering of a removable robotic implement assembly, and includes a primary mover for rotational motion of wheels to move the device. The controller communicates with the implement assembly and lift apparatus to adjust positions in response to task instructions, enabling autonomous operation and targeting specific zones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a lift device uses traditional mobility and control systems, then the structure remains simple, but the device cannot efficiently and autonomously perform tasks at specific target zones in complex environments
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into multiple independent modules: a controller for high-level decision making, a navigation system for path planning, sensors for environmental perception, and actuator control systems for execution. This modular segmentation enables autonomous operation while managing complexity through distributed control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed as a universal computing platform that can perform multiple functions including navigation, obstacle detection, task planning, and coordination of various actuators. This multi-functional design consolidates control capabilities into a single intelligent unit, enabling autonomous operation without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
2Productivity
If a lift device integrates advanced control systems and robotic implement assemblies for autonomous operation, then task performance efficiency improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic implement assembly is merged with the lift apparatus through a common controller that coordinates both lifting operations and robotic task execution. This integration allows the system to perform multiple tasks (lifting, positioning, and robotic operations) in a coordinated manner, improving productivity while managing complexity through unified control rather than separate independent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller autonomously processes task instructions, plans navigation paths, coordinates implement positioning, and executes tasks without continuous human intervention. This self-service capability improves productivity by enabling autonomous operation, while the automated nature of the system actually reduces the operational complexity burden on users.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a lift device uses a removable robotic implement assembly with independent movement capabilities, then the implement can reach specific target zones, but the overall device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic implement assembly is nested within the lift apparatus structure, with the implement positioned on the lift platform. The implement can independently move relative to the lift apparatus about at least two axes, creating a nested configuration where the smaller independent robotic system operates within the larger lift system. This nesting enables precise target zone access while managing complexity through hierarchical spatial organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic implement is designed with dynamic movement capabilities, able to rotate and position itself independently relative to the lift apparatus about multiple axes. This dynamic positioning capability allows the implement to adapt its orientation and reach specific target zones, improving versatility while the independent articulation points provide natural mechanical degrees of freedom that simplify the overall control requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A lift device includes a lift apparatus, a base assembly, and a controller. The lift apparatus is configured to raise and lower a removable robotic implement assembly. The base assembly is configured to support the lift apparatus and a primary mover. The primary mover is configured to provide rotational motion to one or more wheels supported by the base to move the lift apparatus. The controller is in communication with the implement assembly and the lift apparatus. The controller is configured to adjust a position of the robotic implement assembly and the lift apparatus in response to receiving instructions to perform a task.