Modular Robot ID Assignment Using Magnetic Connector Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular devices, such as modular robots, face issues with proper assembly due to the need for precise ID number setting of building elements, where incorrect positioning leads to malfunctioning.
Innovation Solution
A method for setting identification numbers in modular devices using a system of connectors with magnets and terminals, where a master building element can assign unique IDs to slave elements through a detection circuit and switching mechanism, ensuring correct orientation and connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If building elements are assembled manually without automated ID assignment, then assembly flexibility is maintained, but assembly accuracy and reliability deteriorate due to incorrect positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The building elements perform self-identification through onboard sensors detecting connector features, and the master element automatically assigns ID numbers based on detected positions. This self-service mechanism eliminates manual ID assignment, ensuring assembly accuracy without requiring complex external identification systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Unique ID numbers are pre-defined in the master building element before assembly begins. The master element prepares assignment data in advance, and during assembly, IDs are automatically assigned based on pre-programmed rules and real-time connector detection, ensuring accurate positioning from the start of assembly.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connectors are used per building element to increase connectivity, then adaptability improves, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring connector orientation and ID increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical identification mechanisms with magnetic field-based sensors. Each connector includes magnets that generate detectable magnetic fields, allowing the sensor to automatically determine connector orientation and identity through magnetic field strength and direction measurements, simplifying the detection process despite multiple connectors per element.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses magnetic field strength variations as an analog to color coding. Different connector positions and orientations produce distinct magnetic field signatures that the sensor can detect and interpret, enabling automatic identification of connector types and orientations without visual markers or complex mechanical features.
3Reliability
If fixed assembly order is enforced to ensure correct positioning, then assembly reliability improves, but assembly speed and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic ID assignment where the master building element automatically determines connector orientations in real-time using sensor data and assigns corresponding ID numbers during the assembly process. This dynamic approach allows parallel assembly of multiple elements while maintaining correct positioning through real-time feedback and adjustment, improving both speed and reliability.
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
Ensures correct assembly and functioning of modular devices by accurately setting and managing ID numbers, preventing malfunctions caused by incorrect element positioning.
Implementation Method 1
Each connector includes a magnet and a terminal... The processor is configured to: obtain a detection value of the detection circuit, wherein the detection value is obtained by the detection circuit detecting the connector... obtain the orientation of the connector that is connected to the building element based on the detection value
Data Source
AI summary
An identification (ID) number setting method for a modular device that comprises a master building element and a plurality of slave building elements that are connected to the master building element, includes: disconnecting the slave building elements from the master building element; setting ID numbers of all of the slave building elements to be a preset ID number; and assigning new ID numbers to slave building elements of N tiers that are connected to one output interface of the master building element in an order from first tier to Nth tier, wherein the slave building elements of the first tier are slave building elements that are directly connected to the output interface, the slave building elements of the Nth tier are slave building elements that are indirectly connected to the output interface through slave building elements of a (N−1)th tier, N is a natural number greater than 1.