Robot Docking Platform Ramps to Protect Charging Contacts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current robotic systems require significant human intervention for tasks like refueling, testing, and servicing, which hinders their autonomous operation and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A mobile robot system with an integrated docking station that enables autonomous charging and debris evacuation, utilizing a charging circuit and communication/guidance system to facilitate self-docking and energy management, while ramps or ribs on the docking platform lift the cleaning module over charging contacts to prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a mobile robot is designed for autonomous operation, then human intervention is reduced, but the robot requires automated docking systems for charging and servicing
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile robot autonomously navigates to and docks with the docking station without human assistance. The robot's controller automatically aligns and connects charging contacts and debris discharge mechanisms, enabling self-service for recharging and debris evacuation, thereby reducing human intervention while maintaining manageable system complexity through automated self-docking procedures
2Productivity
If charging contacts are exposed on the docking platform, then charging efficiency is improved, but the cleaning module may damage the contacts during docking
Solution Approach 1:
The docking platform incorporates vertical ramps that elevate the cleaning module assembly in the vertical dimension as the robot approaches. This dimensional transition allows the cleaning module to pass over the charging contacts without contact, eliminating damage risk while maintaining exposed charging contacts for efficient electrical connection during docking
3Loss of time
If the robot docks autonomously, then operational time is reduced, but precise alignment and positioning are required
Solution Approach 1:
The docking system incorporates sensors and controllers that provide real-time feedback on the robot's position and alignment status. The controller adjusts the robot's docking approach based on sensor feedback, automatically correcting alignment deviations to ensure precise connection of charging contacts and debris discharge mechanisms, thereby achieving rapid autonomous docking with high precision
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a mobile robot system comprising a docking station having a platform having a front and a rear, first and second raised charging contacts on the platform and first and second ramp features on the platform. The mobile robot includes a housing, a motorized drive system connected to the housing, first and second charging contacts on a bottom of the housing and a cleaning module that extends below the bottom of the housing. The mobile robot is movable from an approach position with the robot spaced apart from the front of the platform to a docked position with the mobile robot on the platform and the docking station charging contacts engaged with the mobile robot charging contacts. As the robot moves from to the docked position, the robot engages the first and second ramp features and the cleaning module is lifted over the docking station charging contacts.