Modular Autonomous Robot With Attachment Retention System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing autonomous robots are often limited to performing a single function, requiring multiple robots for various tasks and being costly due to the need for dedicated units for each task.
Innovation Solution
A modular autonomous robot with a main body, drive system, attachment retention system, and control system that allows for interchangeable attachments to perform multiple tasks, including a lift mechanism for vertical and lateral movement, and a dimension sensor for navigation around obstacles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single-function autonomous robot is used, then the robot can be simple and reliable, but it cannot perform multiple tasks and requires multiple robots for different functions
Solution Approach 1:
The robot system is divided into a base unit and separate interchangeable attachments. The base unit contains common components (drive system, control system, power source), while specific functions are segmented into detachable attachments that can be coupled to the base unit as needed. This allows the robot to perform multiple tasks by swapping attachments rather than integrating all functions into one complex unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed with a universal interface (coupling mechanism) that can accommodate multiple different types of attachments. This universal design allows a single base unit to perform multiple different functions by simply changing the attached component, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated robots for different tasks.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated robots are acquired for different tasks, then each robot can be optimized for its specific function, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional capabilities are merged into a single robot system through the attachment mechanism. Instead of having separate robots for different tasks, the system combines a shared base unit with various task-specific attachments, allowing one physical robot to perform multiple functions that would otherwise require multiple dedicated robots.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal base unit design enables a single robot platform to replace multiple dedicated robots by accepting different attachments for different tasks, thereby reducing the total number of robots needed while maintaining comprehensive task coverage.
3Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable attachments are added to the base unit, then the robot can perform multiple tasks, but the attachment and detachment process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling and decoupling mechanisms are extracted as standardized, pre-designed interfaces between the base unit and attachments. These mechanisms are designed to be simple to operate (such as snap-fit, latch, or magnetic connections) so that attachments can be quickly swapped without complex procedures, maintaining ease of operation while enabling function interchangeability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the robot is designed to accommodate various attachment sizes, then it can support diverse functions, but the robot's compactness is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment retention system uses a laterally extending support structure that projects outward from the base unit. This lateral extension allows attachments of various sizes to be mounted without increasing the robot's primary footprint in the main direction of travel. The support structure accommodates size variations in a lateral dimension while maintaining a compact overall profile.
Data Source
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AI summary
An autonomous modular robot includes an attachment retention system that for retaining two or more interchangeable attachments for performing unique tasks, e.g., steam cleaning, vacuuming, grass cutting, etc. The attachments may be sequentially positioned in the path of travel of the robot and configured to perform complementary tasks. For example, for cleaning a floor, a first attachment may be configured to vacuum the floor and a second attachment may be configured for steam cleaning the floor. The robot may also include a vertically translatable lift mechanism. The lift mechanism may include the attachment retention system, thereby allowing the attachments to be moved vertically. The lift mechanism may also include a dimension sensor proximate a top of the lift mechanism. The dimension sensor may be utilized to determine the size, e.g., a height and/or a width of the robot with any retained attachments, to help navigate the robot and avoid obstacles.