Autonomous robot auto-docking and energy management systems and methods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current robotic systems require significant human intervention for refueling, testing, and servicing, which limits their autonomy and efficiency in performing tasks such as vacuuming and other cleaning operations.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous mobile robot equipped with an induction charging system and auto-docking capabilities, allowing for wireless charging and reduced human interaction through the use of a receiver coil and transmitter coil configuration, enabling efficient energy management and self-docking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the robot uses contact-based charging, then charging reliability is improved, but the complexity of mechanical docking increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical contact-based charging system with an electromagnetic induction charging system. The transmitter coil in the base station and receiver coil in the robot enable wireless energy transfer through electromagnetic fields, eliminating the need for physical plug-and-socket connections and complex mechanical alignment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electromagnetic fields as an intermediary between the base station and robot for energy transfer. The transmitter coil generates an alternating magnetic field that induces current in the receiver coil, serving as a non-contact mediator for power transmission and simplifying the docking mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If the robot requires human intervention for refueling and servicing, then operational control is improved, but autonomy is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service capabilities through automatic docking mechanisms where the robot autonomously navigates to the base station, aligns itself using sensors and guidance systems, and performs charging without human assistance. The system monitors battery levels and initiates docking automatically, enabling the robot to service itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms through sensors that detect the robot's position, orientation, and docking status. The base station and robot exchange signals to confirm proper alignment and initiate charging sequences, creating a closed-loop control system that enables autonomous operation while maintaining operational reliability.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the receiver coil is positioned closer to the surface, then charging efficiency is improved, but vulnerability to debris and damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a protected micro-environment around the receiver coil. The housing structure provides localized protection specifically at the coil location while maintaining the necessary electromagnetic field penetration, allowing the coil to be positioned optimally for charging efficiency without direct exposure to harmful external factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a thin housing structure that encloses the receiver coil, providing protection from debris and damage while maintaining electromagnetic transparency. The housing material allows magnetic field penetration for efficient charging while physically shielding the coil from environmental contaminants and mechanical damage.
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 enhances the robot's autonomy by enabling wireless charging and self-docking, reducing the need for human intervention and improving operational efficiency in tasks like vacuuming and cleaning.
Implementation Method 1
an induction charging system including a receiver coil in the housing proximate the bottom of the housing
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for docking an autonomous mobile floor cleaning robot with a charging dock, the robot including a receiver coil and a structured light sensor, the charging dock including a docking bay and a transmitter coil, includes: positioning the robot in a prescribed docked position in the docking bay using the structured light sensor and by sensing a magnetic field emanating from the transmitter coil; and thereafter induction charging the robot using the receiver coil and the transmitter coil with the robot in the docked position.