Dock assembly for autonomous modular sweeper robot
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing autonomous robots are often limited to performing a single function, requiring multiple robots for various tasks, which is costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A modular robot system with a sweeper module and dock assembly that allows for interchangeable attachments, enabling the robot to perform multiple tasks by engaging and disengaging the sweeper module using self-aligning cones and scissor lifts, and a dock system for charging and servicing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single-function autonomous robot is used, then the robot structure is simple and reliable, but multiple tasks require multiple robots which increases cost and reduces efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The robot system is divided into a base robot unit and separate interchangeable functional modules (sweeper module, vacuum module, etc.). Each module can be independently attached or detached from the robot base, allowing the system to perform multiple tasks while keeping individual components relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The robot base is designed with universal docking interfaces and alignment mechanisms that can accommodate multiple different functional modules. The alignment platform with cones and holes provides a universal interface that works with various modules, enabling one robot to perform multiple tasks.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular interchangeable attachments are implemented, then task versatility improves, but the docking and alignment mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The docking mechanism employs self-aligning features where the cone-shaped protrusions on the alignment platform automatically guide and position the module during attachment. The conical geometry provides self-centering action, eliminating the need for complex alignment motors or sensors, and enabling automatic self-alignment through simple geometric constraints.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise alignment mechanisms are used for module attachment, then alignment accuracy improves, but the mechanism requires more components and becomes harder to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The conical alignment features utilize self-centering geometry where the cone shape automatically guides the module into proper alignment as it is lowered onto the platform. This passive self-aligning mechanism achieves precise positioning without requiring active control systems, complex sensors, or difficult-to-manufacture precision components.
Solution Approach 2:
The cone-shaped alignment protrusions provide curved surfaces that facilitate smooth self-alignment during module attachment. The conical geometry allows for tolerance compensation and automatic centering, achieving precise alignment through simple curved geometric forms that are easy to manufacture.
4Reliability
If multiple autonomous robots are deployed for different tasks, then each robot can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system cost and management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single robot base unit can be equipped with different functional modules to perform multiple tasks sequentially. The universal docking interface and alignment platform enable the robot to reliably switch between sweeper modules, vacuum modules, or other attachments, replacing the need for multiple dedicated robots.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional capabilities are merged into a single robot system through the use of interchangeable modules. Instead of having separate robots for sweeping, vacuuming, and other tasks, the system combines these functions into one multi-functional platform that can switch between modules as needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A dock assembly is provided. The dock assembly is configured for docking with a robot. An alignment platform of said dock assembly is configured to receive a sweeper module from the robot when the robot is docked and said sweeper module disengages from the robot. The alignment platform has a plurality of cones positioned on a top side of the alignment platform. The plurality of cones are configured to engage a plurality of holes positioned on an underside of the sweeper module when the sweeper module becomes disengaged from the robot. The plurality of cones enable self-alignment of the alignment platform to the sweeper module as the plurality of cones engage the plurality of holes. The alignment platform has a plurality of support pads positioned on a bottom side of the alignment platform. The support pads are configured to rest on a plurality of bearings that permit lateral movement of the alignment platform when the plurality of cones engage the plurality of holes and the alignment platform self-aligns to the sweeper module.