Modular Autonomous Transport Convoy Magnetic Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current autonomous vehicle technologies have not adequately addressed interactions between autonomous vehicles and inefficiencies in the transportation of goods, particularly in the last stage of shipping, where trucks are slow, cumbersome, and inefficient, costing over $1.5 trillion annually.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous, on-demand system comprising modular apparatuses that can be combined to adapt to various transportation needs, allowing for efficient autonomous transportation of people and goods through a method involving module assembly, convoy formation, and magnetic coupling for efficient movement and unloading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional trucks are used for last stage shipping, then cargo can be transported, but the transportation is slow and energy inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the transportation task into multiple autonomous modules that can operate independently or combine together. Each module is a self-contained unit with its own propulsion, navigation, and cargo capacity, allowing parallel operations and optimized routing to improve speed and energy efficiency compared to traditional single-vehicle trucking
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple autonomous modules can merge to form convoys for long-distance transport, then separate for final delivery. This combining approach allows the system to leverage the energy efficiency of group travel while maintaining the speed and flexibility of individual delivery, directly addressing the speed-energy efficiency tradeoff
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular autonomous apparatuses are used, then transportation flexibility and efficiency are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs universal standardized modules with identical interfaces for coupling, power transfer, and data communication. Each module can perform multiple functions (propulsion, cargo carrying, navigation) and can be combined in various configurations to meet different transportation needs, achieving high adaptability without proportionally increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The autonomous modules self-navigate, self-couple, and self-manage their operations without requiring complex centralized control for every decision. Each module has its own onboard intelligence for navigation, obstacle avoidance, and coupling operations, which reduces the overall system control complexity while maintaining high flexibility
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
This system enhances transportation efficiency by reducing energy expenditure through convoying, enabling flexible and autonomous transportation solutions that address inventory management and reduce costs associated with traditional trucking methods.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic coupling for efficient movement and unloading
Data Source
AI summary
Method and system for autonomously transporting people and/or goods. The method includes requesting conveyance of a payload from a designated area to a destination, autonomously moving at least one module to the designated area, loading the at least one module with a payload within the designated area, and, via the at least one module, autonomously transporting the payload to the destination.