Autonomous Mobile Robot Range Extender Using Fuel Cell Module Trailer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous mobile robots powered by batteries face limitations in movable range and working time due to battery charging constraints, leading to inefficiencies and reduced productivity.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous mobile robot equipped with a range extender using a fuel cell module, where the fuel cell module is connected to a trailer and can charge the main battery when its charge level falls below a set value, adjusting charging time based on external temperature and load conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If large-capacity batteries are equipped to extend movable range, then battery capacity increases, but charging time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a fuel cell module with the battery system to create a hybrid power architecture. The fuel cell generator charges the battery during operation, merging two power sources to extend range without requiring proportionally larger battery capacity, thus avoiding extended charging times and maintaining productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fuel cell module performs preliminary charging action during the robot's operation. Instead of waiting for the robot to return to a charging station, the fuel cell continuously generates electricity to recharge the battery during work hours, ensuring the battery remains charged without interrupting productivity.
2Reliability
If the robot returns to charging station for recharging, then battery charge is restored, but work continuity is interrupted and battery life decreases due to overdischarge
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel cell module enables the battery system to be self-sufficient during operation. The fuel cell continuously generates electricity to recharge the battery while the robot is working, eliminating the need to return to an external charging station and maintaining uninterrupted work continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fuel cell module ensures continuous charging action during the robot's operational period. By continuously generating electricity throughout the work cycle, the system maintains battery charge levels without interrupting the robot's useful work, preserving both productivity and battery health.
3Duration of action of moving object
If fuel cell module charges battery continuously, then movable range is extended, but battery may be overcharged and service life shortened
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously monitors the battery's charge level and uses this feedback to regulate the fuel cell module's charging output. When the battery reaches full charge or approaches optimal charge levels, the control unit adjusts or stops the fuel cell's charging action, preventing overcharge and extending battery service life while maintaining extended movable range.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution extends the movable range and increases the working time of the autonomous mobile robot, ensuring stable operation and minimizing battery life shortening, while maintaining productivity and continuity of work.
Implementation Method 1
a fuel cell module 220 that is provided inside the trailer 210 and is capable of generating electric energy
Implementation Method 2
a heat exchanger 130 that is provided on at least one side of the main battery 120 and is capable of adjusting a temperature of the main battery 120
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an autonomous mobile robot equipped with a range extender using a fuel cell module in which a trailer is connected to a rear side of a robot body, the trailer including a fuel cell module that can charge a main battery provided in the robot body by generating electric energy to extend a movable range or a working time of the autonomous mobile robot. According to the present invention relating to an autonomous mobile robot 1 equipped with a range extender 200 using a fuel cell module 220 in which the fuel cell module 220 is provided in a trailer 210 connected to a rear side of a robot body 100, the range extender being configured to charge the main battery 120 with electric energy generated in the fuel cell module 220 when a charge amount of the main battery 120 of the robot body 100 reaches a set remaining charge amount, the main battery 120 can be stably charged to extend a battery life, and not only can a movable range of the autonomous mobile robot 1 be extended, but also a workload can be significantly increased.