Robotic Charging Device for Mobile User Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for charging electronic devices in public or semi-public spaces are inconvenient, as they often require users to have a charging adapter and be near a power outlet, limiting mobility and accessibility, especially when battery levels are low and charging infrastructure is scarce.
Innovation Solution
A charging management system that employs robotic devices equipped with charging capabilities, which can be summoned to the user's location via a mobile application, allowing for charging in exchange for user interactions such as viewing advertisements or participating in surveys, and featuring adaptable charging solutions including various charging ports and battery-powered operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional charging methods using power outlets and charging adapters are used, then charging can be provided where infrastructure is available, but user mobility is limited and accessibility is reduced in public spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic device autonomously navigates to the user's location and provides charging services without requiring the user to move to a charging outlet. The robot carries its own power source and charging equipment, enabling it to service users at any location within its operational range.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic device is equipped with multiple charging ports supporting different connectors (USB-C, Lightning, Micro USB) and can provide both wired and wireless charging. This multi-functionality allows it to serve various device types and charging needs at any location.
2Reliability
If users remain close to their charging devices in public places, then device security is maintained, but user convenience and mobility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic device acts as an intermediary between the power source and the user's device. It carries the charging equipment and moves to the user, allowing the user to maintain distance from both the power outlet infrastructure and their own device while still receiving charging services.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a stationary charging model (user must be at outlet) to a mobile charging model (robot moves to user). This dimensional change in service delivery enables users to charge devices while maintaining security through proximity to their device without being constrained by outlet locations.
3Ease of operation
If charging infrastructure is deployed in public spaces, then charging accessibility is improved, but infrastructure complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The charging functionality is extracted from fixed infrastructure (outlets and charging stations) and consolidated into mobile robotic units. This eliminates the need for extensive electrical infrastructure deployment in public spaces while maintaining charging accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters from fixed-location charging to mobile charging. The robotic devices can dynamically adjust their locations based on demand, eliminating the need for predetermined infrastructure deployment while improving accessibility.
4Adaptability or versatility
If robotic devices are equipped with multiple charging ports and capabilities, then charging versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic device integrates multiple charging capabilities (wired charging with various connectors, wireless charging) into a single platform. This universal design allows one device to serve multiple charging needs without requiring separate specialized equipment for each charging type.
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 convenient and accessible charging of electronic devices in public spaces, enhancing user mobility by providing charging services where traditional infrastructure is lacking, while offering additional revenue streams through user interactions.
Implementation Method 1
the robotic device to determine to provide the charge to the electronic device
Implementation Method 2
A charging management system that employs robotic devices equipped with charging capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus, and/or system for providing an action with respect to a mobile device using a robotic device that tracks the user. In accordance with at least one embodiment, a request to perform an action with respect to an electronic device is received. Information may be sent to one or more robotic devices within a proximity of the electronic device. A robotic device of the one or more robotic devices may be selected to perform the action. An indication may be received from the robotic device that indicates that the user has interacted with the robotic device. Instructions may be sent to the robotic device to perform the action with respect to the electronic device. A location of the user may be tracked while charging is performed by the robotic device. The robotic device may be instructed to follow the user at a threshold distance from the user.