Modular Smart Robot Control for Low-Complexity Autonomy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic systems face challenges in mobility due to varied terrain and size limitations, which affect their ability to navigate diverse environments efficiently. Additionally, dedicated onboard control systems are complex, costly, and difficult to reconfigure.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of non-dedicated smart control devices that can be associated with robotic systems, providing smart functionality to control operational functions. These smart control devices are removable, modular, and capable of performing logic processing, command execution, and data processing, allowing for enhanced customization and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated onboard control systems are used, then the robotic device can perform specific functions reliably, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a generic computing device that can perform multiple functions through software rather than dedicated hardware for each function. The computing device executes instructions to perform navigation, obstacle detection, path planning, and other control functions, allowing a single device to replace multiple specialized systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses software instructions (a digital copy of control logic) to implement control functions rather than physical dedicated hardware circuits. The instructions stored in memory can be executed by the generic computing device to perform various control operations, reducing hardware complexity while maintaining functionality.
2Extent of automation
If dedicated onboard control systems are used, then the robotic device can operate autonomously, but the system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal computing device that can handle autonomous operation through software rather than expensive dedicated autonomous control hardware. The same generic device can be used for navigation, obstacle avoidance, and task execution by loading appropriate instruction sets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes commercially available off-the-shelf computing devices that are relatively inexpensive and can be easily replaced or upgraded. Rather than custom-built expensive dedicated control systems, the invention uses standard computing hardware that can be obtained from commercial sources.
3Manufacturing precision
If dedicated onboard control systems are used, then the robotic device can be controlled precisely, but reconfiguration becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfigurability through software instructions that can be loaded, unloaded, and modified at runtime. The control system can adapt its behavior by executing different instruction sets depending on the task requirements, environment, or operational mode without physical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the state of the control system by loading different software instructions or modifying instruction parameters rather than physically reconfiguring hardware. This allows the same hardware platform to be precisely configured for different tasks by changing the software parameters and instruction sets.
Data Source
AI summary
A robotic device is disclosed that can have a plurality of non-dedicated, smart control devices. Each smart control device can provide smart functionality to control an operational function of the robotic device. In addition, a robotic system is disclosed that can include a robotic device having a local non-dedicated, smart control device providing smart functionality to control an operational function of the robotic device. The robotic device can also include a remote control device to communicate operational information with the local smart control device to facilitate user control of the robotic device.