Modular Robotic Transport Vehicle with Dynamic Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for lifting and transporting heavy loads, particularly in military logistics, are inefficient, unsafe, and costly, often requiring manual effort and leading to injuries due to the lack of effective assistance mechanisms, especially in complex or uneven terrain.
Innovation Solution
A robotic mobile low-profile transport vehicle with modular design, featuring a multi-degree of freedom coupling assemblage and interchangeable payload systems, which allows for efficient and stable transportation of heavy loads over complex terrain by dynamically adjusting its configuration and center of mass to maintain stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual lifting and transporting methods are used, then no specialized equipment is required, but safety decreases and injury risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transport system is divided into multiple independent modules that can be coupled together. Each module has its own propulsion and mobility systems, allowing the heavy transport task to be distributed across multiple units rather than requiring one complex monolithic system, thus improving safety while controlling overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Each transport module is equipped with its own propulsion system and can operate autonomously to some extent. The modules self-coordinate through control systems to achieve synchronized movement, eliminating the need for external coordination equipment and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high safety standards.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-configuration transport vehicles are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different terrains decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The transport system employs dynamic reconfiguration capabilities where modules can change their coupling states and operational modes based on terrain conditions. The control system continuously adjusts module positions and configurations to optimize performance for different terrains, achieving high adaptability without requiring permanently complex structures.
Solution Approach 2:
Each transport module is designed as a universal unit that can perform multiple functions - serving as a standalone transporter, coupling with other modules for heavy loads, or adapting to various terrain types. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized equipment for different scenarios, balancing versatility with manageable complexity.
3Productivity
If heavy loads are transported manually, then no mechanical assistance is needed, but productivity decreases and physical strain increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical assistance is segmented across multiple independent modules, each contributing to the overall transport capability. This distribution of mechanical function allows the system to handle heavy loads efficiently while keeping individual module complexity manageable, thereby improving productivity without requiring an overly complex centralized mechanical system.
4Weight of moving object
If multi-module transport systems are used, then load capacity increases, but coordination complexity between modules increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each module is equipped with autonomous control capabilities and can independently manage its own propulsion and positioning. The modules self-coordinate through standardized communication interfaces, allowing the system to scale to multiple modules for increased load capacity without proportionally increasing coordination complexity, as each unit handles its own control decisions.
Data Source
AI summary
A robotic mobile low-profile transport vehicle is disclosed. The vehicle can comprise a first transport module having a frame assembly, a mobility system, and a propulsion system and a second transport module having a frame assembly and a mobility system. A multi-degree of freedom coupling assemblage can join the first and second transport modules together. The vehicle can include a first platform supported about the frame assembly of the first transport module, and a second platform supported about the frame assembly of the second transport module. Each of the platforms can be configured to receive a load for transport. Additionally, the vehicle can include a control system that can operate to facilitate intra-module communication and coordination to provide a coordinated operating mode of the first and second transport modules and the coupling assemblage about a given terrain.