Mobile Robotic Charging Device Autonomous Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power transfer systems are cumbersome and inefficient, prone to misalignment and operator error, and lack effective methods for navigating around foreign objects during the charging process.
Innovation Solution
A mobile robotic charging device equipped with sensors and a cost function-based routing system that dynamically aligns with target devices using wireless or wired power transfer, avoiding obstacles and optimizing paths for efficient power delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual plugging or alignment systems are used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability and efficiency of power transfer deteriorate due to misalignment and operator error
Solution Approach 1:
The charging device autonomously navigates to and aligns with the target device without human intervention. Sensors detect the target device's position and the charging device automatically adjusts its orientation and position to achieve proper alignment for power transfer, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating operator error
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with an automated system combining sensors (optical, electromagnetic, or other detection devices) and motorized positioning mechanisms. This substitution transforms a manually-controlled mechanical process into an automated sensor-guided system, improving reliability while managing complexity through integration
2Productivity
If a mobile robotic charging device with sensors and routing system is implemented, then reliability and efficiency improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The charging device is divided into functional modules: navigation module with sensors, positioning module with actuators, power transfer module with connector or wireless element, and control module. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system architecture by creating discrete, manageable functional blocks
Solution Approach 2:
The charging device is designed with multi-functional capabilities: it can detect target devices using various sensor types, navigate to multiple potential targets, align precisely for connection, and transfer power through both wired and wireless modes. This universality allows a single device to handle diverse charging scenarios, improving productivity while consolidating functionality
3Reliability
If dynamic alignment and foreign object detection are implemented, then power transfer reliability improves, but ease of operation deteriorates due to automated control requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-alignment using sensors to detect the target device's position and orientation. The charging device automatically adjusts its own position and angle to achieve optimal alignment, eliminating the need for operators to manually position and align components, thereby improving alignment accuracy while reducing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Sensors continuously monitor the alignment status between the charging device and target device, providing real-time feedback to the control system. Based on this feedback, the system automatically makes adjustments to maintain optimal alignment, ensuring high reliability while requiring minimal operator intervention
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 system ensures reliable and efficient power transfer to target devices by minimizing misalignment and foreign object interference, providing a more efficient and user-friendly power delivery solution.
Implementation Method 1
a wireless power transfer element such as a coil antenna to transfer power wirelessly to the target device
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile charging device may be used to move a battery or a power cord to a target device. The target device may be a vehicle or other equipment with a battery. Power from the power cord or battery in the charging device may be used to provide power to the target device to recharge the battery in the target device. The charging device may couple a power cord to the target device, may couple a connector in the charging device to the target device, or may use a wireless power transfer element such as a coil antenna to transfer power wirelessly to the target device. Sensors may be used to facilitate alignment between the charging device and target device. Sensors may also be used to dynamically detect and avoid foreign objects in the path of the charging device.