Mobile Robot Top Module Lift Using Horizontal Actuator Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lifting mechanisms for mobile robots require large forces due to their design, which can be inefficient and costly in terms of energy consumption and mechanical complexity.
Innovation Solution
A top module for mobile robots featuring a lifting mechanism with a first arm rotatably attached to a base member and a second arm attached to a top plate, utilizing an actuator to provide a horizontally directed force that is transferred to the first arm via a push member, allowing for a smaller lifting force to be effective.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If traditional lifting mechanisms (scissor arms, elevating units) are used, then lifting function is achieved, but large actuator force is required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transforms the lifting mechanism from a vertical force application (traditional scissor arms) to a horizontal force application. The actuator applies horizontal force to the first arm, which then converts this horizontal force into vertical lifting force through its rotational movement and the mechanical advantage of the arm configuration. This dimensional change allows the use of smaller actuators.
Solution Approach 2:
The first arm acts as an intermediary between the actuator and the load. Instead of the actuator directly providing vertical lifting force, it first applies horizontal force to the first arm, which then translates and amplifies this force through its mechanical configuration to produce the required vertical lifting force on the top plate.
2Force
If large force lifting mechanisms are used, then lifting capability is sufficient, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
By changing from vertical to horizontal force application, the system exploits the mechanical advantage of the arm's rotational movement. The horizontal actuator force is converted into vertical lifting force through the arm's geometry and movement, reducing the total energy required from the actuator while maintaining sufficient lifting capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameters of force application - from direct vertical force to horizontal force with rotational movement. This parameter change allows the same lifting task to be performed with reduced actuator force and consequently lower energy consumption.
3Ease of operation
If vertical force application is used, then lifting is direct, but mechanical complexity and force requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism uses horizontal force application followed by rotational conversion to achieve vertical lifting. This indirect approach through dimensional change simplifies the actuator requirements while maintaining lifting efficiency through the mechanical advantage of the arm configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The first arm serves as a mechanical intermediary that converts horizontal actuator motion into vertical lifting motion. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the overall system by allowing the use of simpler, lower-force actuators while maintaining effective lifting capability.
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 lifting mechanism enables efficient elevation of objects with reduced actuator force requirements, simplifying the mechanical design and potentially lowering energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
The force (Fh) provided by the actuator is transferred to the first arm in such a manner that the contact member provides a lifting force (Fv) of basically the same size as the force (Fh) provided by the actuator
Data Source
AI summary
A top module configured to be placed on a mobile robot and be mechanically and electrically connected to the mobile robot is disclosed. The top module comprises a base member resting on the mobile robot, a top plate for receiving one or more objects, and at least one lifting mechanism to elevate the top plate relative to the base member. The lifting mechanism has two arms rotatably attached to one another. One arm is attached to the top plate. The other arm is attached to the base member. An actuator is arranged and configured to provide a force, having a force component extending in a direction parallel to the bottom plate, on a push member having a contact structure bearing against one of the arms.