Multi-body Self-Propelled Device with Magnetic Induction Power Transfer

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Remote controlled devices often require specialized remote controllers and mechanical fastening means for accessories, limiting versatility and ease of use.

Innovation Solution

A multi-body self-propelled device with a magnetically coupled head and drive body, utilizing induction interfaces for power transfer and wireless communication, allowing for independent control and autonomous operation, and featuring yaw and pitch control mechanisms for flexible movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If mechanical physical fastening means are used to connect accessories, then connection strength is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidmechanical fastening complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical physical fastening means with magnetic coupling to connect accessories to the device. The magnetic coupling mechanism uses magnetic attraction forces instead of mechanical fasteners, reducing structural complexity while maintaining connection strength. This substitution eliminates the need for screws, clips, or other mechanical attachment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes magnetic field strength as a controllable parameter to achieve secure connection. By adjusting magnetic coupling strength through magnet selection and positioning, the system achieves adequate connection force without mechanical fastening, thereby simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining attachment reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If specialized remote controllers are used for each device, then control precision is improved, but adaptability and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol precisionVSAvoidcontroller versatility
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal remote control system using magnetic coupling that can interface with multiple different devices and accessories. The magnetic coupling mechanism serves as a standardized interface that works across various device types, eliminating the need for device-specific controllers while maintaining effective control capability through the universal magnetic interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If mechanical fastening means are used, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidaccessory attachment ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical fastening operations with magnetic attachment, allowing accessories to be connected simply by bringing them into proximity with the device. The magnetic force automatically secures the connection without requiring manual fastening operations, significantly improving ease of operation while maintaining reliable attachment through the magnetic bond.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enables versatile, wireless control and autonomous operation of the device, with reduced mechanical complexity and enhanced accessory integration, improving user interaction and device functionality.

Implementation Method 1

The head can include an induction interface to inductively transfer power to the drive body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The coupled head can house a corresponding set of one or more magnetic elements to maintain a magnetic interaction through the spherical housing of the drive body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic interaction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS10101739B2Multi-body self propelled device with induction interface power transfer
Publication Date: 2018.10.16 SPHERO INC
  • US10101739B2 patent drawing
  • US10101739B2 patent drawing
  • US10101739B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A multi-body self-propelled device can include a drive body and a coupled head. The drive body can include a spherical housing, an internal drive system within the spherical housing to propel the multi-body self-propelled device, and a magnet holder coupled to the internal drive system to hold a first set of magnetic elements. The drive body can further include a first power source within the spherical housing to power the internal drive system and a first inductive interface. The coupled head can include second set of magnetic elements to establish a magnetic interaction with the first set of magnetic elements through the spherical housing. The coupled head can also include a second power source, and a second inductive interface. The multi-body self-propelled device can transfer power between the coupled head and the drive body via the first and the second inductive interfaces.