Laser-Guided Docking Alignment for Precise Mobile Robot Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing docking methods for apparatuses, such as spacecraft and mobile robots, lack precision and efficiency in achieving relative fixation and electrical connections during the docking process.
Innovation Solution
A docking apparatus equipped with a processor and an array of photosensitive components, where the processor determines the photosensitive component receiving laser light and controls the docking apparatus to move to a calibrated position for precise docking with an opposite-end apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional docking methods (ring-cone, rod-cone, gripper-collision lock) are used, then the docking process can be completed, but the precision and accuracy of achieving relative fixation and electrical connections deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical docking methods (ring-cone, rod-cone, gripper-collision lock) with an optical detection system using laser light and photosensitive components. The processor determines which photosensitive component receives laser light to identify the target docking position, substituting mechanical sensing with optical-electrical detection to achieve higher precision without proportional increase in mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces laser light as an intermediary between the docking apparatus and the target apparatus. The laser light carries positional information, and the photosensitive components convert this optical information into electrical signals for the processor, serving as a mediator that enables precise position detection without direct mechanical contact during the detection phase
2Productivity
If traditional docking methods are used, then the docking process can proceed, but the efficiency of achieving successful electrical connections deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the processor continuously monitors which photosensitive component receives laser light and adjusts the docking apparatus position accordingly. This real-time feedback loop enables rapid convergence to the correct docking position, significantly improving docking efficiency compared to trial-and-error mechanical methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary position detection using the laser and photosensitive component array before final mechanical engagement. By pre-identifying the correct docking position through optical detection, the system avoids time-consuming adjustments and failed connection attempts during the actual docking process
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 proposed solution enhances the precision and accuracy of the docking process, allowing for successful electrical connections and improved efficiency in applications such as spacecraft and mobile robots.
Implementation Method 1
a first object performs the function of: determining, from the plurality of photosensitive components, the photosensitive component that receives a laser light
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a connection apparatus, a mobile robot, and a connection method for the connection apparatus. The connection apparatus comprises a processor and a plurality of photosensitive devices electrically connected to the processor, wherein the processor determines, from the plurality of photosensitive devices, a photosensitive device receiving a laser light, the laser light being emitted by an opposing-end apparatus to be connected to the connection apparatus. The connection apparatus, according to a position offset between the photosensitive device receiving the laser light and a target photosensitive device, is controlled to move to a connection position calibrated by means of the target photosensitive device, such that the connection apparatus and the opposing-end apparatus are connected to each other. The embodiments help improve the accuracy of connection between the connection apparatus and the opposing-end apparatus.