Hybrid Leg-Wheel Vehicle Control Modes for Omnidirectional Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional motor vehicles are unable to effectively control omnidirectional movement using both wheeled and walking locomotion, as existing user interfaces are not designed for vehicles capable of such functionality.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid vehicle system with a processor and leg-wheel components that can operate in multiple modes, delegating control between the operator and the processor for various aspects such as objective, destination, speed, direction, and locomotion type, allowing for both manual and autonomous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional steering wheel and foot pedal controls are used, then control simplicity is maintained, but control capability for omnidirectional movement is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The control interface is designed to provide multiple control modes (manual steering wheel/foot pedal control and automated journey management system control) within a single system, allowing the same physical interface to serve both traditional and advanced omnidirectional movement control functions
Solution Approach 2:
The processor acts as an intermediary between the control interface and the leg-wheel components, translating operator inputs into appropriate movement commands for wheeled or walking locomotion, enabling complex omnidirectional control without requiring complex physical interfaces
2Ease of operation
If full manual control is provided for all aspects, then operator control is maximized, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically adjusts the level of automation based on the selected mode of operation, allowing the operator to switch between full manual control and automated control as needed, making the system adaptable to different operational requirements and operator preferences
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is segmented into distinct operational modes (first mode with full manual control and second mode with automated control), allowing the operator to select the appropriate level of automation for each specific task or situation
3Adaptability or versatility
If the vehicle can switch between wheeled and walking locomotion, then adaptability to terrain is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The leg-wheel components merge the functions of traditional wheels and walking legs into a single integrated mechanism, allowing the vehicle to switch between wheeled and walking locomotion using a unified system rather than separate systems for each mode
Solution Approach 2:
The leg-wheel components are designed to perform multiple functions (wheeled rolling and walking motion) within a single mechanical structure, enabling the vehicle to adapt to different terrains without requiring entirely separate locomotion systems
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for operating a hybrid vehicle are provided. The hybrid vehicle may comprise a processor, a chassis, and a plurality of leg-wheel components coupled to the chassis. The plurality of leg-wheel components may be configured to be collectively operable to provide wheeled locomotion and walking locomotion. The processor may be configured to cause the hybrid vehicle to function in one or more of a plurality of modes of operation. Each mode of operation, in the plurality of modes of operation, is configured to delegate control of an operation of at least one aspect of the hybrid vehicle between an operator and the processor