Modular AMR Platform Assembly for Rapid Payload Customization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing AMR platforms are often overly generic and ill-suited to accommodate payload diversity, requiring significant investment in custom development or compromising on cost, time, and quality.
Innovation Solution
A modular mobile platform with a structural frame, in-hub electric motors, and a central unit that includes a power source and controller, allowing for easy adaptation to various configurations through a centralized electrical system and interchangeable components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a custom mobile platform is developed to meet specific payload requirements, then the platform can be precisely adapted to specific needs, but significant cost, time and money are required for development
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile platform is divided into distinct modular components including a structural frame, wheel set with in-hub motors, and a central unit with power source and controller. These modules can be independently developed, tested, and then rapidly assembled into different configurations for various payload requirements, eliminating the need for complete custom development.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal mobile platform design with standardized interfaces and mounting points that can accommodate multiple different payloads and applications. The structural frame includes standardized attachment points, and the central unit provides universal power and control capabilities, allowing the same base platform to serve diverse functions without requiring custom development for each application.
2Loss of time
If an off-the-shelf mobile platform is used, then development time and costs are reduced, but the platform is often overly generic and ill-suited to accommodate payload diversity
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile platform incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements such as adjustable wheel positions, reconfigurable mounting points on the structural frame, and a modular central unit that can be positioned differently. This dynamic reconfigurability allows the platform to adapt to various payload configurations while maintaining a standardized base design that reduces development time.
3Productivity
If a modular platform design is implemented, then rapid customization is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into integrated modules: the wheel set combines drive motors, steering mechanisms, and wheel assemblies; the central unit integrates power source, controller, and electronics; the structural frame combines structural support with mounting interfaces. This functional integration reduces the number of separate components and connections required, simplifying the assembly process despite the modular design.
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile platform for an autonomous mobile robot comprises an external structural frame extending around the periphery of the platform. A wheel set comprises a plurality of wheel units each coupled to the frame. At least one wheel includes an in-hub electric motor. A central unit conforms to the internal form of the structural frame and has a substantially planar form. The central module includes a power source and a controller. A method of assembling a mobile platform for an autonomous mobile robot comprises the steps of: constructing a peripheral structural frame; providing a central unit configured to conform to the internal form of the structural frame, the central module comprising a power source and a controller; and mounting a wheel set to the frame the wheel set comprising a plurality of wheel units, each coupled to the frame and at least one wheel including an in-hub electric motor.