Dishwasher Loading Robot with Integrated Capture and Sorting System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional robotic tidying solutions are limited in their ability to autonomously perform comprehensive cleaning operations without additional manual work by the user, and they struggle with complex tasks such as loading and unloading objects into devices like dishwashers.
Innovation Solution
A general-purpose tidying robot equipped with a capture and containment system, including a scoop, pusher pads, gripper arm, and lifting column, capable of autonomously loading and unloading objects into a dishwasher by grasping, transporting, and sorting items like cutlery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional robotic tidying solutions are used, then basic object organization is achieved, but comprehensive cleaning operations cannot be completed autonomously
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system integrates multiple functional modules including a capture module with pusher pads for grasping objects, a containment module with a scoop for holding objects, a transport module for moving objects to the dishwasher, and a release module for placing objects in the dishwasher. This multi-functional integration enables the robot to autonomously perform comprehensive cleaning operations including loading, unloading, and sorting various items without manual intervention.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the robot uses a simple capture mechanism, then device complexity is reduced, but the robot cannot effectively grasp and contain various objects
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the capture function (pusher pads that extend and rotate to grasp objects) with the containment function (scoop that raises to hold objects) into an integrated capture and containment system. This unified structure allows the robot to effectively grasp and contain various objects including cutlery, plates, and cups while maintaining coordinated control of the combined mechanisms.
3Productivity
If the robot transports objects directly without sorting, then processing time is reduced, but object organization by category is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system performs preliminary sorting actions at the source location before transport. The capture module selectively grasps objects and the containment module holds them while the system determines the appropriate destination category. This preliminary organization allows for efficient batched transport of sorted objects to different dishwasher locations, reducing total processing time compared to individual object handling.
Data Source
AI summary
A tidying robot is used to place and remove a target object, such as a cup, plate or cutlery item, at another location. The robot extends and rotates pusher pads to grasp the target object, and then retracts the pusher pads to move the target object into a scoop. The robot then transports the target object to a destination, such as a dishwasher or storage platform, where it is placed on a storage platform. The robot may also sort items, such as the cutlery and place it into cutlery tray slots.