Modular Vehicle Assembly Control With Autonomous Module Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle assembly methods are cumbersome and time-consuming, limiting flexibility and increasing costs due to the need for multiple vehicles for different purposes, as they require manual disassembly and reassembly of modular vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for controlling the assembly of vehicles from a set of modules, where a drive module with autonomous operation connects to a functional module via interfaces, allowing for automated assembly and verification of connections, reducing manual labor and increasing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual disassembly and reassembly of modular vehicles is performed, then vehicle flexibility and customization are improved, but assembly time and labor complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service assembly where the modular vehicle components automatically connect and verify their own integration. The control device coordinates autonomous modules to self-assemble into a functional vehicle without requiring manual disassembly and reassembly operations
Solution Approach 2:
The control device pre-coordinates the assembly process by receiving verification data from modules before final integration. Modules prepare their connection interfaces and verification systems in advance, enabling rapid assembly when the vehicle configuration is determined
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual disassembly and reassembly of modular vehicles is performed, then vehicle flexibility and customization are improved, but operational efficiency decreases due to vehicle-off-road time
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous assembly system eliminates the need for manual intervention, allowing vehicles to be reconfigured rapidly between missions. Modules autonomously connect and verify integration, minimizing vehicle-off-road time and maximizing operational efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables dynamic reconfiguration of vehicle modules based on mission requirements. The control device can rapidly assemble different vehicle configurations from the same set of modules, allowing flexible adaptation without significant downtime
3Reliability
If multiple vehicles are maintained for different purposes, then service reliability is improved, but cost and resource utilization increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements multi-functionality by enabling a single set of modular vehicles to perform multiple different purposes through reconfiguration. The control device assembles modules into different vehicle types (e.g., ambulance, cargo vehicle, passenger transport) from the same component set, eliminating the need to maintain separate vehicles for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The modular vehicle system dynamically adapts its configuration based on service requirements. The control device receives mission data and assembles appropriate vehicle configurations from available modules, allowing the same physical resources to serve multiple functions reliably
4Productivity
If automated assembly with verification is implemented, then assembly speed and efficiency are improved, but system complexity and control requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where modules transmit verification data to the control device confirming successful integration. This automated feedback loop enables rapid assembly validation without requiring complex manual verification procedures, balancing speed with reliable quality control
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method performed by a first control device (100) for controlling assembly of a vehicle (1) from a set of modules (20), the set of modules (20) comprising: at least one drive module (30); and at least one functional module (40), wherein the at least one drive module (30) comprises a pair of wheels (32) and is configured to be autonomously operated, and wherein each module (30; 40) in the set of modules (20) comprises at least one interface (50) releasably connectable to a corresponding interface (50) on another module, the method comprising: commanding (s101) a second control device (200) of the at least one drive module (30) to physically connect the at least one drive module (30) with the at least one functional module (40) to assemble a vehicle (1); and receiving (s102), from at least one of the modules (30; 40) of the assembled vehicle (1), a verification of the connection between the modules (30; 40).