Modular Robotic Modules With USB Power, Data, and Local Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic systems lack modularity, reconfigurability, and flexibility, limiting their ability to be easily reproduced and adapted for different tasks due to centralized control systems and lack of independent control processors.
Innovation Solution
A modular, expandable, programmable, and networkable mechatronic prototyping system with modules that communicate via USB connections, each equipped with a real-time operating system, allowing for independent operation and configuration through a web-based GUI, enabling fast and simple reassembly and reconfiguration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a centralized control system is used in robotic systems, then the control structure is simple, but the system lacks reconfigurability and modularity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the robotic system into independent modules, each with its own control processor and functionality. This segmentation allows each module to operate autonomously while being controlled by a master controller, enabling reconfiguration without requiring complete system redesign. The modular architecture resolves the contradiction by maintaining simple control at the individual module level while achieving complex reconfigurability at the system level.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic reconfiguration capabilities where modules can be added, removed, or repositioned based on task requirements. The control system dynamically adapts to changes in module configuration through real-time communication protocols, allowing the system to transition between different operational states without requiring physical reprogramming or hardware modification.
2Ease of operation
If modules lack independent control processors, then the system is easier to control centrally, but the modules cannot be termed active individual units
Solution Approach 1:
Each module is equipped with its own control processor, creating independent control units that can operate autonomously. This segmentation allows modules to execute local control algorithms and respond independently to sensor inputs while still being coordinated by a master controller. The dual-layer control architecture resolves the contradiction by providing both centralized coordination and independent module operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces a communication protocol as an intermediary between modules and the master controller. This protocol enables modules to exchange data and control signals, allowing independent operation while maintaining system-wide coordination. The communication layer acts as a mediator that reconciles the needs for centralized control and independent module operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional power sources are added to each module, then each module can operate independently, but the system complexity and power management burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power supply function into the master controller or a centralized power management unit, eliminating the need for separate power sources in each module. Power is distributed through the existing communication and control infrastructure using power-over-USB or similar integrated power delivery protocols. This merging approach enables independent module operation while avoiding the complexity of managing multiple power sources.
4Ease of manufacture
If modules are designed for mechanical modularity only, then the physical assembly is simple, but the reconfigurability is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The connection interfaces are designed with multi-functionality, serving both mechanical connection and electrical communication purposes. The same physical interface handles power delivery, data transmission, and control signals, eliminating the need for separate wiring harnesses and reducing assembly complexity. This universal interface design enables full reconfigurability while maintaining simple mechanical assembly procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention regards a robot module (100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106) comprising a sensor device (129) and/or an actor device (131) and/or a control interface (130) and/or power means (132) and/or wireless communication means (133), and a main board (115) including at least one connection interface (112), and a memory (124), wherein at least one connection interface (112) is adapted to receive communication data and electrical power, and at least one connection interface (112) is adapted to provide communication data and electrical power, wherein the main board (115) is adapted to, based on software and/or parameters stored in the memory (124), control the actor device (131) and/or output control data via the control interface (130) and/or process data from the sensor device (129) and/or from the control interface (130), and/or provide power from the power means via the connection interface (112) and/or communicate via the wireless communication means, and receive software data and/or parameters via the connection interface (112) and to store the software data and/or parameters in the memory (124).