Smart Cabinet with Automated Moving Module for Object Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional cabinets are inconvenient for use in smart homes as they require manual placement or retrieval of objects, failing to meet the demand for intelligent and efficient storage solutions.
Innovation Solution
A smart cabinet with a moving module, controlling module, and assisting module, featuring a base with guiding wheels, drivers, a manipulator, input control unit, pulley system, rope retractor, and sensor, allowing for automated movement and object handling within a defined range, controlled via a processor and communication modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional manual cabinet operation is used, then device complexity is low, but ease of operation deteriorates due to manual placement requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the cabinet automatically detects object placement locations using sensors and autonomously moves shelves or compartments to optimize storage without requiring manual intervention from users
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with automated control systems including sensors, processors, and motorized actuators that detect object characteristics and automatically adjust cabinet configurations through electronic control rather than mechanical manual adjustment
2Productivity
If automated moving module is added, then productivity is improved through automatic object handling, but device complexity worsens due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The moving module is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a transport mechanism for objects and as a positioning system for optimizing storage configurations, thereby achieving multiple productivity benefits from a single integrated component system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested structure where the manipulator is integrated within the moving module, and the moving module itself is positioned within the cabinet body, creating a compact hierarchical arrangement that reduces overall system complexity while maintaining full functionality
3Adaptability or versatility
If manipulator with clamping mechanism is implemented, then object handling capability is improved, but strength requirements worsen due to fragile item protection needs
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping mechanism features locally differentiated gripping surfaces with varying compliance characteristics, where softer materials contact fragile areas and firmer structures provide overall support, allowing the same mechanism to handle both delicate and robust objects effectively
Solution Approach 2:
The manipulator employs dynamic clamping force adjustment where the gripping strength is automatically modulated based on real-time sensor feedback about object characteristics, enabling gentle handling of fragile items while maintaining sufficient force for sturdier objects
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 efficient and intelligent movement of the cabinet's moving module to any position, with the manipulator automatically grasping or releasing objects, enhancing storage efficiency and protecting fragile items through a clamping mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor is configured for detecting a tension of the guiding rope
Implementation Method 2
The pulley group comprises a plurality of pulleys respectively positioned at predetermined end points, and the plurality of pulleys cooperate to define a movement range for the moving module
Data Source
AI summary
The application relates to a smart cabinet. The smart cabinet includes a cabinet body, a moving module, a controlling module and an assisting module. The moving module is positioned in the cabinet body; the controlling module is connected to the moving module. The moving module includes a base, a guiding wheel group disposed on the base, a plurality of drivers pivotally connected with the guiding wheel group, and a manipulator disposed on the base. The controlling module includes an input control unit, a guiding rope, and a pulley group. The input control module is electrically connected with the drivers and the manipulator. The pulley group includes a plurality of pulleys defining a movement range for the moving module. The assisting module includes a rope retractor and a sensor electrically coupled to the rope retractor. Two ends of the guiding rope are coupled to the rope retractor.