Modular Robot Motherboard Interface for Interchangeable Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular robots for pipeline inspection have limited modularity and require specific control and power signals for different modules, restricting their adaptability and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A modular robot design with interchangeable modules containing custom circuits, connected via a motherboard for power and data bus, allowing plug-and-play functionality and customizable operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different modules use dedicated control and power signals, then each module can be precisely controlled, but the system complexity and number of required signal lines increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal motherboard interface that provides standardized power and data buses for all interchangeable modules. The motherboard contains a processor that can dynamically allocate resources and communicate with different module types through a common interface, eliminating the need for dedicated control and power signal lines for each module type.
Solution Approach 2:
The motherboard acts as an intermediary between the external control system and the interchangeable modules. It provides a standardized connection interface that translates between the universal bus protocol and module-specific requirements, allowing modules to be swapped without changing the control architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized modules are designed for different tasks, then the robot can perform diverse functions, but the manufacturing cost and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The robot system is segmented into a standardized body (motherboard) and interchangeable functional modules. Each module is designed as an independent unit with standardized connection interfaces, allowing them to be manufactured separately and assembled as needed. This reduces tooling costs and allows parallel production of different module types.
Solution Approach 2:
A single universal motherboard design supports multiple different module types through software configuration and dynamic resource allocation. This eliminates the need to manufacture multiple specialized motherboards, significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining task diversity.
3Productivity
If modules are highly specialized for specific functions, then operational efficiency for that function is maximized, but the ability to adapt to new tasks is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Functional capabilities are segmented into separate interchangeable modules rather than being hardwired into a fixed system. Each module can be optimized for its specific function while the overall system maintains adaptability through the ability to reconfigure which modules are installed and active.
Solution Approach 2:
The system architecture is dynamic, allowing modules to be added, removed, or reconfigured based on task requirements. The motherboard processor dynamically allocates resources and adjusts operational parameters based on which modules are present, enabling the system to optimize performance for the current configuration while maintaining adaptability for future reconfigurations.
Data Source
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AI summary
A modular robot (11) has an elongated body portion (14) including at least one interchangeable module (29) having an elongated profile containing circuitry configured to implement a predetermined functionality of the robot. At least one motherboard (37) is disposed at at least one end of the robot and is configured to connect to the module circuitry.