Modular Wheel Mobility Unit for Multi-Apparatus Autonomous Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-movement devices for wheel-equipped apparatuses are difficult to install, costly, and limited to moving one apparatus at a time, without the ability to transport people and items simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A modular and configurable device for self-movement of wheel-equipped apparatuses that can be easily installed by an untrained user, utilizing low-cost sensors and allowing for simultaneous movement of multiple apparatuses through train-type and tandem-type operating configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If existing self-movement devices are used, then autonomous movement is achieved, but installation difficulty increases and costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional modules: a control unit with processing circuitry, sensor units distributed at different locations, and communication units. These modular components can be independently installed and configured, reducing overall installation complexity while maintaining autonomous movement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit serves multiple functions by integrating processing circuitry that can perform navigation, obstacle detection coordination, and control signal generation. This multi-functional approach reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying installation while achieving autonomous operation
2Extent of automation
If existing self-movement devices are used, then autonomous movement is achieved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs cost-effective sensor units and communication units that can be manufactured at lower costs compared to integrated expensive systems. These units can be produced using standard manufacturing processes, reducing overall device cost while maintaining autonomous movement functionality
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the system into separate control unit, sensor units, and communication units, each component can be manufactured independently using optimized processes for that specific function, reducing overall manufacturing costs compared to producing a single complex integrated system
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing self-movement devices are used, then single apparatus movement is enabled, but versatility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is designed with universal control signals that can operate different types of wheel-equipped apparatuses (wheelchairs, stretchers, trolleys). The sensor units and communication units work together in a standardized configuration that adapts to multiple apparatus types, enabling versatile multi-apparatus movement without increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system configuration is made dynamic and adaptable through wireless communication between control units and sensor units. The processing circuitry can dynamically adjust control parameters based on the specific apparatus being controlled, allowing the same device to efficiently manage multiple different apparatus types
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 1c
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device (120a) for self-movement of a wheel-equipped apparatus (110a), comprising: - driving means (210) adapted to move said device (120a); - anchoring means (230) adapted to anchor said device (120a) to said wheel-equipped apparatus (110a), said device (120a) being adapted to be anchored to said wheel-equipped apparatus (110a) through said anchoring means (230), wherein said device (120a) is adapted to autonomously move said wheel- equipped apparatus (110a), to which it is anchored, through said driving means (210).