Robotic Drive Unit Universal Payload Interface

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional drive units are not configurable to interface mechanically and communicatively with multiple different types of payload structures, limiting their versatility and safety in dynamic environments with varying payloads.

Innovation Solution

A drive unit with a mechanical interface and payload identification module that can interchangeably couple with various payload structures, using multiple mounting pins for stability and an electrical interface to detect and adapt to different payload types, establishing customized drive and safety profiles for safe and efficient operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a drive unit is designed with a fixed interface for a specific payload type, then the structural complexity is reduced and manufacturing is easier, but the adaptability to different payload structures is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different payload structuresVSAvoidinterface complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The drive unit is designed with a universal mounting interface that can accommodate multiple different payload structures. The interface includes standardized mounting pins and attachment mechanisms that work with various payload types, allowing a single drive unit to perform multiple functions and transport different materials safely

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The interface is divided into modular components including mounting pins, attachment points, and identification elements that can independently interact with different payload structures. This segmentation allows the interface to adapt to various payload configurations without requiring complete redesign

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If a drive unit uses a standardized mounting interface for multiple payload types, then the adaptability is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring payload characteristics increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveversatility with payload structuresVSAvoidpayload identification difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The interface incorporates identification mechanisms that automatically detect payload characteristics when attached to the drive unit. Sensors and detectors in the interface provide feedback about the payload type, weight, and configuration, enabling the drive unit to automatically adjust its operation without manual intervention

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The interface performs self-identification of payload characteristics through integrated sensors and detectors. The system automatically determines payload type and configuration without requiring external measurement tools or manual input, simplifying the operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If a drive unit is designed to handle various payload shapes and sizes, then the versatility is improved, but the safety risks in dynamic environments increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveversatility in material transportVSAvoidsafety risks with diverse payloads

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The interface performs preliminary detection and verification of payload attachment before the drive unit operates in dynamic environments. Sensors check that the payload is securely mounted and properly configured, preventing safety issues before they occur by identifying potential problems in advance

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

Continuous monitoring systems provide real-time feedback about payload stability and secure the drive unit can adjust its operation to maintain safety when transporting various shapes and sizes of materials

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11591023B2Drive unit with interface to mount and identify multiple different payload structures

Publication Date: 2023.02.28 AMAZON TECH INC

AI summary

A drive unit of a robotic vehicle including a top surface having a mounting interface to interchangeably couple with multiple different modular payload structures configured to transport items in a facility, workspace or inventory management environment. The mounting interface is configured to securely engage with a mounting portion of the variety of different payload structures to enable a versatile exchange of the payload structure for different conveyance applications. The drive unit includes an electrical interface to communicatively couple with the modular payload structures. The drive unit is configured to use data communicated via the electrical coupling and interface to identify a type of modular payload structure that is mechanically coupled to the mounting interface and implement a motion profile (e.g., speed and acceleration parameters) associated with the identified modular payload structure.