Force-Amplified Mobile Robot for Precise Heavy Load Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in efficiently moving and positioning loads with considerable weight, particularly in remote environments, due to limitations in machine range, operator skill requirements, and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A force amplification mobile robotic system that acts as an external exoskeleton, allowing a single operator to manually move and position loads of up to 400 kg using a robotic system with 6 degrees of freedom, without the need for specialized controls or programming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If cranes or hydraulic truck cranes are used to move and position loads above human physical limits, then the load can be lifted and transported, but the equipment requires anchoring that restricts movement to a specific region and needs prepared access paths with flat, leveled terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical anchoring systems (cranes, hydraulic truck cranes) with a robotic system that uses tracked mobility and remote control. The robotic system can navigate rough terrain without requiring flat, leveled paths or anchoring points, providing both heavy load capability and movement flexibility in remote environments.
2Reliability
If multiple specialized machines and operators are used to handle different transport and lifting operations, then each operation can be performed with specialized equipment, but the system complexity increases and requires multiple trained and certified operators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions (transport, lifting, positioning) into a single robotic system that can perform all operations with one operator. The robotic system integrates mobility, load handling, and precise positioning capabilities, eliminating the need for separate cranes, trucks, and operators while maintaining safety through remote control and force amplification.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system is designed as a universal platform that can handle various load types and perform multiple operations (transport, lifting, positioning) in different environments. The system adapts to different task requirements through remote control and force amplification, replacing multiple specialized machines with one versatile robot.
3Ease of operation
If remote control with radio communication and camera assistance is used, then the operator can control the robot from a distance, but the system cannot handle loads with considerable weight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a force amplification system as an intermediary between the operator's control inputs and the actual load manipulation. The robotic system acts as a mediator that translates small operator forces into large load-moving forces through mechanical advantage, enabling remote operation with heavy loads up to 400 kg.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the force parameter through amplification mechanisms, allowing the operator to control heavy loads with minimal physical effort. The force amplification system multiplies the operator's input force, enabling remote control of loads that would otherwise require significant physical strength.
4Ease of operation
If a robotic system with 6 degrees of freedom and force amplification is used, then a single operator can manually move and position loads up to 400 kg with precise control, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system provides self-service through automated force amplification and six-degree-of-freedom movement control. The system automatically manages its own complexity by integrating sensors, actuators, and control algorithms that handle the sophisticated movements and force requirements, presenting a simple manual control interface to the operator.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention proposes a mobile robotic system capable of carrying out the movement, manipulation and precise installation of industrial loads (pipes, plates, equipment, parts, materials, etc.), using a single operator for that and presenting ease of use. The invention is basically composed of an anthropomorphic-type industrial robot (3) and a crawler mobile platform (11). The load capacity of the invention is limited by the maximum load capacity of the industrial robot employed. The precise positioning step has a special force amplification system (external exoskeleton) capable of moving a load fixed on the industrial robot wrist (position and orientation) with the force actions of an operator, directly on the robot wrist, or by means of a security extension. The robotic system can be controlled by radio control, capable of allowing both the control of the robot and the movement of the platform.The proposed system of this invention comprises a mobile platform for all types of terrain, an industrial robotic arm, an effector for handling pipes, an effector to pick up metal plates, the respective supports of effectors in a quick tool change system, a diesel electric generator, an industrial radio control, safety sensors and a video monitor for two cameras positioned on the robot structure.