Modular Autonomous Lawn Mower With Replaceable Electrical Connection Means
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing autonomous lawn mowers are either too expensive due to integrated sophisticated features or lack the ability for customers to upgrade their functionality after purchase, limiting user flexibility and increasing costs.
Innovation Solution
A modular autonomous lawn mower system with replaceable parts that allow customers to easily add or upgrade features, such as a camera module, by using standardized electrical connections, enabling the integration of new functionalities without requiring a full system replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If sophisticated functions are integrated into the autonomous lawn mower, then functionality and intelligence are improved, but cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the autonomous lawn mower system into a base unit and separate replaceable modules. Each module contains specific functions (e.g., camera module, sensor module, cutting module) that can be independently attached or detached. This segmentation allows customers to start with a basic configuration and add only the functionality they need, rather than purchasing a complete sophisticated system upfront.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic configurability through replaceable modules that can be added or removed based on user needs. The electrical connection means are designed to facilitate easy attachment and detachment of modules during operation or maintenance. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt its functionality over time without requiring complete system replacement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If sophisticated functions are integrated into the autonomous lawn mower, then functionality is improved, but initial cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into modular components, the patent enables customers to purchase only the base unit initially and add functional modules later. This reduces the initial manufacturing cost and purchase price for customers who don't need all features immediately, while still providing access to sophisticated functionality when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of system configuration from fixed to variable. The electrical connection means are designed to accept different module types and configurations, allowing the system to change its functional parameters based on what modules are attached. This enables cost-effective entry-level purchases with upgrade paths.
3Ease of operation
If electrical connection means are made easily accessible for module replacement, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs universal electrical connection means that serve multiple functions: providing power to modules, transmitting data signals, and enabling mechanical attachment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate connection mechanisms for each function, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity while still achieving easy module replacement.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an autonomous lawn mower comprising a control unit in electrical connection with electrical connection means, and at least one replaceable part. The electrical connection means is located such that connection and disconnection of the electrical connection means and its counterpart of the replaceable part can be performed when replacing the replaceable part. The module for such autonomous lawn mower can replace the replaceable part of the lawn mower and comprises a signal generation unit and a counterpart for the electrical connection means of the lawn mower for transmitting electrical signals to a control unit of the autonomous lawn mower. The autonomous lawn mower forms an autonomous lawn mower system together with the module.