Autonomous Snowblower Control With Hybrid Power and Onboard Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing autonomous snow removal systems face limitations such as limited range and duty cycle due to battery power, dependence on static sensors, multi-functionality compromising efficiency, restricted operating environments, and the need for external guidance markers, making them inflexible and costly.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous snow removal system powered by a hybrid electric motor and gas engine, utilizing onboard sensors and pre-stored map data for localization, focusing solely on snow removal, and capable of operating in various weather conditions and terrains without external markers, optimizing performance and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If battery power is used for autonomous operation, then the system can operate autonomously, but the range and duty cycle are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The power system is segmented into two independent power sources: a battery-powered electric motor for propulsion and navigation, and a separate gas-powered engine for the auger mechanism. This segmentation allows each subsystem to operate within its optimal performance envelope while extending the overall operational duration beyond what a single battery system could achieve.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid power system provides multi-functionality by using the battery to power both the electric motor for movement and the control systems, while the gas engine specifically powers the auger. This universal power architecture allows the system to perform multiple functions simultaneously with appropriate power sources for each function.
2Extent of automation
If static sensors are installed for localization, then the robot can navigate autonomously, but the system becomes dependent on external infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses onboard sensors including cameras, LIDAR, and GPS to perform self-localization and navigation without requiring external static sensors or infrastructure. The robot independently creates and updates its environmental map while navigating, making the system self-sufficient and adaptable to any location without installation requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/static sensor infrastructure with electronic/optical sensing systems mounted on the robot itself. Instead of using fixed external sensors, the system uses onboard cameras, LIDAR, and other electronic sensors to perceive and navigate the environment, substituting external mechanical infrastructure with integrated electronic sensing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functions are integrated into one robot, then versatility is improved, but efficiency in each function is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the snow removal function as the primary and dedicated purpose of the robot, removing other potential functions that would dilute performance. By taking out and focusing solely on snow removal, the system achieves optimized effectiveness for this specific task while maintaining versatility through the hybrid power architecture that could potentially accommodate future specialized attachments.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to an autonomous snow removal machine for residential use. The machine is created by converting a manually operated snowblower to electric operation using motors, sensors, and a small computer. Key functions like wheel movement, chute control, and auger engagement are now powered by electric motors, while the auger rotation remains driven by the original gas engine or electric motor. Onboard sensors provide data to the control computer, enabling autonomous snow clearing within a defined area. The user interacts with the machine through a smartphone application to define the clearing zone and initiate the autonomous process. The machine can be operated manually when required by disengaging the clutch mechanism at the wheels and other electric motors.