Multiaxial Wheeled Support with Switchable Omnidirectional Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional wheel systems limit movement to linear or curvilinear paths, requiring complex maneuvers for multidirectional navigation, and existing omni-wheels do not adequately facilitate dynamic omnidirectional mobility in various applications.
Innovation Solution
A multidirectional support device with a base, multiaxial mobility elements, and controlled-mobility elements that allow for stabilized equilibrium transitions between multidirectional and controlled movement, enabling omnidirectional mobility through a combination of rolling and controlled interaction with the traversed surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional wheel systems are used, then the structure is simple, but movement is limited to linear or curvilinear paths requiring complex maneuvers for multidirectional navigation
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel system is segmented into multiple independent rolling elements (main rolling element and secondary rolling elements) that can operate independently. Each rolling element has its own rolling axis, allowing them to function as separate mobility units that collectively enable multidirectional movement while maintaining structural modularity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a second rolling axis (S) perpendicular to the main rolling axis (M) by adding secondary rolling elements. This dimensional addition transforms the single-axis rolling motion into multi-axial mobility, enabling movement in multiple directions simultaneously without requiring complex maneuvering sequences
2Adaptability or versatility
If omni-wheels are used to enable multidirectional movement, then mobility is improved, but control and stability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The controlled-mobility element is designed to transition between different equilibrium states dynamically. In the first stabilized equilibrium, the element is disengaged from the traversed surface, allowing free multidirectional movement. In the second stabilized equilibrium, the element engages with the traversed surface to provide control and stability. This dynamic state transition enables the system to adapt its behavior based on operational needs
3Stability of the object's composition
If controlled-mobility elements engage the traversed surface continuously, then stability is improved, but multidirectional movement is impeded
Solution Approach 1:
The controlled-mobility element is designed to transition between different equilibrium states dynamically. In the first stabilized equilibrium, the element is disengaged from the traversed surface, allowing free multidirectional movement. In the second stabilized equilibrium, the element engages with the traversed surface to provide control and stability. This dynamic state transition enables the system to adapt its behavior based on operational needs
Data Source
AI summary
A multidirectional support device is configured to move upon a traversed surface and includes a base. A multiaxial mobility element is attached to the base and includes main and secondary rolling elements having a main rolling axis and a secondary rolling axis The main rolling element is configured to allow rolling about the main rolling axis, and the secondary rolling element is configured to allow rolling about the secondary rolling axis. The multiaxial mobility element is arranged to support the base in a first stabilized equilibrium when the base is moving on the traversed surface and supported by the multiaxial mobility element. A controlled-mobility element is configured for controlled mobility and attached to the base. In the first stabilized equilibrium, the controlled-mobility element does not impede multidirectional movement of the device; and in a second stabilized equilibrium, the controlled-mobility element engages the traversed surface, impeding the multidirectional movement.