Multiplexed Robotic Frame for Coordinated Multi-Robot Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing robotic systems lack the capability to efficiently connect and control multiple robots working together, particularly in scenarios requiring complex tasks that exceed the control capabilities of a single device.

Innovation Solution

A robotic system comprising a frame with bracket arms for physically connecting multiple robots, along with a remote-control device using a smart device connected via a pivot, enabling coordinated task execution and enhanced control through multiple control devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple robots are used to perform complex tasks, then task capability and versatility are improved, but control complexity and device coordination difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetask capabilityVSAvoidcontrol complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple robot controls into a unified control system where a single controller can manage multiple robots simultaneously. The controller includes multiple control outputs that can be selectively connected to different robots, allowing coordinated operation without requiring separate control devices for each robot.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The controller is designed with universal functionality to work with multiple different robot types and configurations. It includes multiple interfaces and control outputs that can be adapted to control various robot functions, making it a multi-functional control device that reduces overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If multiple control devices are used to control multiple robots, then control capability is improved, but system complexity and coordination difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple control devices into a single integrated controller that can manage multiple robots. The controller includes multiple control outputs and interfaces that consolidate the functionality of what would otherwise require separate control devices, simplifying the overall system architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Productivity

If robots are physically connected to work in concert, then coordination and collaboration are improved, but mechanical complexity and connection requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecollaboration efficiencyVSAvoidmechanical complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the robotic system into modular units that can be physically connected through standardized interfaces. The frame structure is divided into separate components that can be assembled and disassembled, reducing mechanical complexity while enabling collaborative operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Device complexity

If a single controller is used to control multiple robots, then control simplicity is improved, but control precision and individual robot control capability may worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol simplicityVSAvoidcontrol precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is designed with dynamic control capabilities that can adapt to different robot types and control requirements. It includes multiple control outputs with adjustable parameters that allow precise control of individual robots while maintaining overall system simplicity through a unified control interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11376727B2Multiplexed robotic game
Publication Date: 2022.07.05 MILLER KENNETH C
  • US11376727B2 patent drawing
  • US11376727B2 patent drawing
  • US11376727B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A structure for joining two or more robots to work in concert on a task is provided that includes a frame and an interface for joining the frame to the two or more robots. A remote-control device for controlling at least one robot is further provided that includes a smart device such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer, that is connected to a pedestal base via a pivot connection. A robotic system is further provided that includes a frame having a plurality of bracket arms extending from a hub, a distal end of each bracket arm having at least one of a plurality of interfaces. The robotic system also includes two or more robots each joined to the frame at at least one of the plurality of interfaces. The robotic system may further include a remote-control device, an attachment device connected to the frame, and/or an additional robot.