Robot Docking System Using Detection Current for Autonomous Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic systems require human intervention for docking and charging, which is time-consuming and inefficient, especially when power supplementation can take several hours, disrupting continuous operation.
Innovation Solution
A docking system comprising a robot and a docking station with integrated circuits for automatic detection and charging, using a detection current to confirm terminal connections and switch between detection and charging power, allowing the robot to autonomously return and charge without human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual docking and charging operation is used, then the system is simple to operate, but the docking time is long and productivity is low
Solution Approach 1:
The robot autonomously navigates to the docking station and performs docking operations without human intervention. The system automatically detects terminal alignment, establishes electrical connections, and initiates charging sequences, enabling the robot to service itself during power replenishment cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical docking operations with an automated control system that uses detection circuits to sense terminal connections and main control units to coordinate the docking sequence. This substitution of mechanical manual operations with electronic control and detection mechanisms significantly improves docking speed and consistency.
2Reliability
If detection power is used to confirm terminal docking, then the safety is improved, but the charging speed is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs a preliminary detection phase using low-power detection signals before initiating full charging. The detection circuit confirms terminal alignment and electrical connectivity, and the main control unit verifies proper connection establishment. Only after this preliminary verification succeeds does the system transition to high-power charging mode, ensuring safe and reliable operation.
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
Enables reliable and efficient autonomous docking and charging of robots, reducing downtime and enhancing convenience in industrial and household applications by allowing continuous operation without human intervention.
Implementation Method 1
the detection power generating a detection current when it flows across a detection circuit, the detection circuit being constructed by the first circuit and the second circuit through the first group of terminals docking with the second group of terminals
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention refers to a robot, a docking system and a docking method therefor. The docking system comprises a first circuit located in a robot. The first circuit comprises a power storage unit for supplying power to the robot and a first main control unit for controlling the movement of the robot. The docking system further comprises a first group of terminals electrically connected with the first circuit, and a second circuit located in a docking station. The second circuit comprises a power supplying unit. The docking system further comprises a second group of terminals electrically connected with the second circuit. The power storage unit or the power supplying unit provides a detection power. The detection power generates a detection current when it flows across a detection circuit. The detection circuit is constructed by the first circuit and the second circuit through the first group of terminals docking with the second group of terminals. The detection circuit further comprises a current detection unit, and the first main control unit confirms that the first group of terminals dock with the second group of terminals when the detection current is detected by the current detection unit. The robot according to this invention can reliably dock to the docking station without human intervention, which brings extreme convenience to production and life.