Omni-directional Tread Module with Integrated Drive Gears
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional omni-direction tread systems for robots are inefficient for turning in place, damage fragile surfaces, and have external components that are prone to damage and difficult to replace, lacking compactness and independent multi-axis operation.
Innovation Solution
A robotic device with multiple sprockets and drive gears integrated within the tread module, allowing independent control of forward/reverse and left/right rotations, with motors and electronics housed within the tread for enhanced maneuverability and modularity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional external belts and pulleys are used to rotate the treads, then the tread system can achieve rotation, but the external components are prone to damage and difficult to replace
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the drive shaft, carousel gear, and sprockets within the tread module itself, merging previously external components into the tread structure. This consolidation eliminates exposed external components that are prone to damage, while the modular tread module design maintains ease of replacement.
2Ease of repair
If conventional omni-direction tread systems are used, then the system can rotate treads, but the components are not modular and may be difficult to replace
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the tread system into modular tread modules, each containing its own drive shaft, carousel gear, and sprockets. This segmentation allows individual tread modules to be easily replaced without affecting other parts of the system, significantly improving ease of repair while maintaining manageable system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If Mecanum wheels are used, then the vehicle can achieve omni-directional movement, but the raised profile reduces maneuverability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses sprockets that engage with chains on the underside of the tread module, moving the drive mechanism to a lower dimension. This allows the tread to maintain a low profile while still achieving omni-directional movement capabilities through the engagement of the drive shaft, carousel gear, and sprocket system.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional treads are used for turning, then the vehicle can follow curved paths, but the skid steer rotation damages fragile surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements independent control of the drive shaft and carousel gear, allowing dynamic adjustment of tread rotation. This enables the treads to rotate smoothly in place or follow curved paths without the aggressive skid steer motion that damages surfaces, while maintaining efficient turning capability through coordinated control of the modular tread modules.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides improved maneuverability, compactness, and ease of maintenance by enabling independent multi-axis operation and housing critical components within the tread, reducing the risk of damage and facilitating replacement.
Implementation Method 1
multiple first drive gears may be coupled to a drive shaft gear of the tread module
Implementation Method 2
a second drive gear may be coupled to a carousel gear of the tread module
Implementation Method 3
multiple sprockets may be coupled to a tread module, with each sprocket configured to rotate the tread
Data Source
AI summary
A robotic device includes multiple sprockets coupled to a tread module. The robotic device also includes multiple first drive gears coupled to a drive shaft gear of the tread module. The robotic device further includes a second drive gear coupled to a carousel gear of the tread module.