Vehicle-Coupled Robotic Arm Platform for Precise Loader Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Agricultural machines with loaders lack the flexibility for precise manipulation of objects and materials, and existing robotic arms are typically stationary, limiting their operational capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A mobile working station equipped with an articulated robotic arm and a platform that couples to an agricultural vehicle via a non-permanent connector, allowing for efficient power transfer and modular component integration, including a cleansing system for vehicle components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a loader is used on an agricultural vehicle, then coarse manipulation of objects or material can be performed, but the flexibility for precise manipulation is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the manipulation function into two segments: the loader provides coarse manipulation and positioning, while the robotic arm provides fine manipulation. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its optimal operation range, with the loader handling heavy lifting and rough positioning, and the robotic arm executing precise manipulation tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the loader and robotic arm into an integrated system where the robotic arm is mounted on the loader carrier. This merging allows the two systems to work together synergistically, with the loader providing mobility and coarse manipulation while the robotic arm adds precision, thereby resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and adaptability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If robotic arms are made stationary, then structural stability is improved, but operational capabilities are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic arm system transitions from a stationary configuration to a mobile one by mounting it on the loader carrier, which can move relative to the agricultural vehicle. This dynamic configuration allows the robotic arm to access different work areas while maintaining structural stability through proper mounting and support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile working station with the robotic arm mounted on the loader carrier serves multiple functions: it can perform tasks while the vehicle is moving, access different positions around the vehicle, and adapt to various operational scenarios. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by providing both stability (through secure mounting) and operational capability (through mobility).
3Reliability
If permanent connectors are used to attach the platform to the loader, then connection reliability is improved, but component swapping efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system is segmented into modular components that can be quickly assembled and disassembled. The quick-connect mechanism divides the connection process into simple steps, allowing reliable attachment when connected while enabling rapid separation when swapping is needed, thus resolving the contradiction between connection reliability and swapping efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector transitions from a static permanent connection to a dynamic quick-connect system. This allows the connection state to change rapidly between connected and disconnected states, providing reliability when connected through proper locking mechanisms while enabling efficient swapping through quick release capabilities.
Data Source
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AI summary
A mobile working station is provided. The mobile working stations includes an articulated robotic arm and a platform for supporting the articulated robotic arm. The platform includes a connector for coupling the platform to an agricultural vehicle. The agricultural vehicle directs operation power to the platform via the connector. The platform then directs operational power to the articulated robotic arm.