Modular Sweeper Robot With Interchangeable Lifted Attachments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing autonomous robots are often limited to performing a single function, requiring multiple robots for varied tasks and being costly due to the need for dedicated devices.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous modular robot with a main body, drive system, attachment retention system, and control system that allows for interchangeable attachments to perform multiple tasks, including a lift mechanism for vertical movement and dimension sensing to navigate obstacles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated autonomous robots are used to perform various tasks, then task versatility is improved, but cost and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous robot is designed with a universal platform that can perform multiple functions through interchangeable attachments. The main body includes a drive system, control system, and attachment retention system that can accommodate different task-specific attachments, allowing a single robot to replace multiple dedicated robots and reduce system complexity while maintaining task versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The robot system is segmented into a standardized main body and separate interchangeable attachments. Each attachment is designed with standardized coupling mechanisms that interface with the retention system, allowing independent development and optimization of attachments while maintaining a common platform, thus reducing overall system complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable attachments are added to enable multiple functions, then task versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment retention system is designed as a universal interface that can securely hold different types of attachments through standardized coupling mechanisms. This allows the same retention system to accommodate various attachments for different tasks without requiring complex customization, thereby improving versatility while controlling complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system utilizes parameterized design where attachments can be configured with different operational parameters (such as lifting height, movement range, task-specific settings) while maintaining the same physical interface. This allows flexibility in task performance without increasing structural complexity of the retention system
3Adaptability or versatility
If a lift mechanism is added for attachment movement, then attachment versatility is improved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lift mechanism is designed as a dynamic system that can adjust the position of attachments during robot operation. The mechanism includes actuators and linkages that enable vertical movement and positioning of attachments, allowing the robot to adapt to different task requirements while maintaining a relatively compact structure through optimized mechanical design
Solution Approach 2:
The lift mechanism components are arranged in a nested or space-efficient configuration where moving parts are integrated within the existing robot structure. The attachment retention system and lift mechanism share common structural elements, reducing overall complexity and size while maintaining full functionality
Data Source
AI summary
An autonomous robot is provided, that includes a main body having a frame that includes a back end and a front end. The frame includes a first frame extension and a second frame extension that connects the back end of the frame to the front end of the frame. The front end of the frame includes a path to an open volume disposed between the first frame extension, the second frame extension and the back end. Further provided is a drive system connected to the frame, a retention system coupled to the frame, a lift mechanism attached to the frame, and a sweeper attachment having a dimension to substantially fit within the open volume of the main body. The sweeper attachment is connectable to the retention system to raise and lower of the sweeper attachment using the lift mechanism. Further provided is a controller interfaced with the drive system, the retention system and the lift mechanism. The controller is configured to activate the retention system to connect the frame with the sweeper attachment when the main body is disposed over the sweeper attachment and the sweeper attachment is disposed substantially within the open volume. The drive system is controlled by the controller to move the autonomous robot and activate the sweeper attachment to cause sweeping of a surface.