Robotic Charging via Ceiling-Mounted Terminals
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional robotic device charging systems require significant floor space, often necessitating a single device to charge at a time due to structural limitations, leading to inefficiencies and delays in charging multiple robots simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A method and system where a robotic device, equipped with a mechanical manipulator having movable portions with electrical contacts, can couple to a power source apparatus to receive an electrical charge, allowing multiple devices to charge simultaneously from a shared power source, utilizing techniques like induction or conduction, and enabling flexible charging configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional charging station is used, then a robotic device can be charged, but large amounts of floor space are required and only a single device can charge at a time
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system transitions from floor-based charging stations to ceiling-mounted charging apparatus. By utilizing the vertical dimension and mounting charging terminals on the ceiling, the system eliminates the need for large floor space while enabling multiple robotic devices to charge simultaneously from different locations in the room.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging system is divided into multiple independent charging terminals distributed across the ceiling space. Each terminal can independently charge a robotic device, allowing parallel charging operations. This segmentation enables multiple devices to charge simultaneously without requiring a single large charging station.
2Loss of time
If a conventional charging station is used, then charging can occur, but multiple robotic devices must wait in line due to structural limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system is segmented into multiple independent charging terminals distributed throughout the space. Each terminal operates independently, allowing multiple robotic devices to charge simultaneously without queuing. This eliminates waiting time while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular terminal design.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging terminals are designed with universal functionality to accommodate different robotic device types. Each terminal can charge multiple device types using the same interface, eliminating the need for specialized charging stations for different robot models and reducing overall system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a mechanical manipulator is used for charging, then flexible coupling to power source is achieved, but additional mechanical components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical manipulator is designed with universal gripping capabilities that can accommodate various charging terminal configurations and robot types. The same manipulator structure can couple to different terminal types, providing charging configuration flexibility without requiring multiple specialized mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic device autonomously navigates to charging terminals and couples its manipulator to the power source without external assistance. The device independently manages the charging process, reducing the need for complex external mechanical coupling systems while maintaining flexibility in charging configurations.
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
This solution enables efficient and simultaneous charging of multiple robotic devices from a single power source, optimizing space usage and reducing waiting times, while maintaining the versatility of robotic functions and adaptability to various environments.
Implementation Method 1
receiving an electrical charge from the power source through the member
Implementation Method 2
utilizing techniques like induction or conduction
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for robotic device charging are described. Within examples, a robotic device may be any device that has a computing ability and interacts with its surroundings with an actuation capability (e.g., electromechanical capabilities). In some examples, a robotic device may be configured to receive a second device, such as a mobile phone, that may be configured to function as necessary as an accessory or a “brain” of the robotic device. A power source apparatus may be any apparatus able to distribute charge in some form in any method to a device wanting charge, including robotic devices.