Systems for setting and programming zoning for use by autonomous modular robots
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing autonomous robots are often limited to performing single tasks, requiring multiple robots for various functions, which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A modular robot system with a sweeper module, robot module, and controller that allows for programming and zoning of work functions, enabling the robot to perform multiple tasks such as sweeping, scrubbing, and mowing by assigning different zones and work functions, using GPS, computer vision, and sensors for autonomous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single autonomous robot is designed to perform multiple functions, then the need for multiple dedicated robots is reduced, but the device complexity increases due to the need for modular components and programming systems
Solution Approach 1:
The robot is divided into a base robot module and interchangeable functional modules (sweeper module, scrubber module, mower module). Each module can be independently attached or detached, allowing the robot to perform different functions without requiring a completely different device for each task.
Solution Approach 2:
The base robot module is designed with universal interfaces and control systems that can accommodate multiple types of functional modules. The controller is programmed to recognize and operate different module types, enabling a single robot platform to perform sweeping, scrubbing, mowing, and other tasks.
2Reliability
If multiple dedicated robots are used for different tasks, then each robot can be optimized for its specific function, but the cost and management complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple specialized functions are merged into a single robot platform through the use of interchangeable modules. Instead of deploying separate robots for sweeping, scrubbing, and mowing, one robot with attached modules can perform all these functions, reducing the total number of robots needed.
Solution Approach 2:
Functional modules can be discarded (detached) when their task is complete and recovered (reattached) when needed again. This allows the system to dynamically adjust its capabilities based on current task requirements without permanently carrying unnecessary components.
3Productivity
If zoning and sub-zoning are implemented for different work functions, then task efficiency improves through targeted operations, but the programming and control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The operational area is divided into zones with specific characteristics (e.g., high-traffic areas, delicate surfaces, grass areas). Each zone is programmed with specific parameters and work functions tailored to its local requirements, allowing the robot to adapt its behavior to different areas without requiring complete reprogramming for each task.
Solution Approach 2:
Zones and their associated work functions are pre-programmed into the controller before the robot begins operation. The controller contains library routines for different zone types and tasks, so when the robot enters a zone, it automatically executes the appropriate pre-prepared sequence without requiring real-time complex decision-making.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular robot is provided. The modular robot includes a sweeper module having a container for collecting debris from a surface of a location. The sweeper module is coupled to one or more brushes for contacting the surface and moving said debris into said container. Included is a robot module having wheels and configured to couple to the sweeper module. The robot module is enabled for autonomous movement and corresponding movement of the sweeper module over the surface. A controller is integrated with the robot module and interfacing with the sweeper module. The controller is configured to execute instructions for assigning of at least two zones at the location and assigning a work function to be performed using the sweeper module at each of the at least two zones. The controller is further configured for programming the robot module to activate the sweeper module in each of the two zones. The assigned work function is set for performance at each of the at least two zones. The work function can be to sweep, to scrub, to polish, to mow or to perform different work functions over zones of a location, and providing remote access to view real-time operation of the modular robot, and to program zones and other control parameters of the modular robot.