Modular Electro-Mechanical System with Distributed Intelligence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electro-mechanical systems lack modularity, making it difficult to create a wide variety of systems with minimal setup and configuration, limiting their flexibility and efficiency in applications such as assembly line automation and robotics.
Innovation Solution
A modular electro-mechanical system comprising interconnected modules with actuators and data processors that can sense and modify their state, allowing for various configurations and topologies, including serial and non-serial connections, using Ethernet communication standards for easy integration and customization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional non-modular electro-mechanical systems are used, then system functionality can be achieved, but system flexibility and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The electro-mechanical system is divided into discrete modular units, each containing an actuator, data processor, and sensor suite. These modules can be independently configured and connected in various topologies (serial, parallel, or non-serial) to create different system configurations, thereby improving flexibility without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Each modular unit is designed with universal interfaces and standardized components that allow the same module type to serve multiple functions depending on its configuration and connection topology. The modules can be reused across different system architectures, reducing the variety of unique components needed and simplifying setup procedures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular units with distributed intelligence are implemented, then system adaptability and autonomy are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each modular unit includes an onboard data processor that autonomously senses the module's state and commands the actuator to modify the state without requiring centralized control for every operation. This distributed intelligence allows modules to self-configure and self-manage, reducing the complexity of system-wide coordination and integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor suite in each module continuously monitors the module's state and provides feedback to the data processor, enabling closed-loop control at the module level. This local feedback mechanism simplifies system integration by allowing each module to independently maintain its operational state without complex inter-module communication protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for an electro-mechanical system. A system includes a plurality of connected modules. A first module of the modules includes an actuator for imparting motion on the electro-mechanical system and a data processor configured to sense a state of the first module and to command the actuator to modify the state of the first module.