Autonomous Roofing Removal Machine with Adaptive Drum
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current roofing material removal methods are labor-intensive and pose safety and liability concerns due to the need for human operation on roofs, using cumbersome tools and mechanical apparatuses.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous guided roofing material removal machine with a chassis, propulsion system, drum with removal teeth, height actuators, drum motor, and a control system that uses machine vision and adaptive algorithms for autonomous operation, allowing for remote control and efficient removal of roofing materials without manual labor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual labor with hand tools is used for roofing material removal, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but labor intensity increases and safety concerns arise
Solution Approach 1:
The roofing removal machine is designed to operate autonomously without human operators on the roof. The system uses onboard sensors, processors, and actuators to automatically navigate, remove roofing materials, and deposit debris, thereby eliminating the need for manual labor while maintaining safety through complete automation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical tools (shovels, hammers) with an automated machine system that uses motorized drums with removal teeth, height actuators for positioning, and controlled propulsion systems to perform roofing removal tasks automatically
2Extent of automation
If autonomous automation is implemented for roofing material removal, then labor intensity is reduced and safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous roofing removal machine is divided into distinct functional modules: propulsion system for movement, drum assembly with removal teeth for material removal, height actuators for positioning control, sensor systems for navigation, and a control system for autonomous operation. Each module operates semi-independently, managing complexity through functional segmentation
Solution Approach 2:
The machine integrates multiple functions into a single autonomous system: navigation and positioning, roofing material removal, debris collection and deposition, and self-monitoring. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate manual operations while managing complexity through integrated control
3Adaptability or versatility
If drum height actuators are used to adjust vertical profiles, then adaptability to different roofing conditions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drum height actuators enable dynamic adjustment of the drum's vertical position and profile during operation. The system can modify its configuration in real-time to adapt to varying roof conditions, material types, and operational requirements, providing versatility through dynamic reconfigurability
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 machine effectively reduces manual labor, enhances safety by eliminating human presence on roofs, and efficiently removes roofing materials, including nails, with adaptive algorithms and machine vision guiding the operation to optimize removal and debris collection.
Implementation Method 1
a drum motor connected to the drum for selectively providing torque thereto
Implementation Method 2
a first and second height actuators, each height actuator interconnecting a respective end of the drum to the chassis so that the drum is moveable between a plurality of vertical profiles
Implementation Method 3
a propulsion system mounted to the chassis
Implementation Method 4
an impact mechanism connected to the chassis, wherein the impact mechanism is operative during the torque condition
Data Source
AI summary
An autonomous guided roofing material removal machine is provided.