Swarm UGV Load Support for Precise Transport in Confined Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for transporting large loads in confined spaces, such as aircraft assembly lines, are inefficient, costly, and pose ergonomic and safety challenges for human workers, lacking flexibility and precision.
Innovation Solution
Unmanned ground-based transport vehicles (UGVs) with omnidirectional wheels and modular load-receiving elements, capable of forming a swarm for coordinated movement and precise positioning, using wireless communication and environmental sensors for autonomous navigation and collision avoidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional technical auxiliary systems such as exoskeletons or autonomous ground vehicles are used, then transport capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The transport system is divided into multiple independent UGVs that can operate autonomously or cooperatively. Each UGV is a simple, modular unit with basic navigation and load-receiving capabilities, eliminating the need for complex centralized control systems while achieving high transport capability through swarm coordination
Solution Approach 2:
The UGVs are designed as universal, multi-functional units that can perform various transport tasks independently or in coordination with other UGVs. Each unit has standardized load-receiving elements and omnidirectional mobility, allowing flexible configuration for different transport scenarios without requiring specialized complex systems
2Adaptability or versatility
If human workers manually move large loads, then operational flexibility is maintained, but ergonomic strain and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The UGVs are autonomous units that independently navigate, position themselves, and coordinate to transport loads without human intervention. The swarm system self-organizes to handle loads of various sizes and weights, eliminating ergonomic strain and safety risks while maintaining operational flexibility through programmable adaptability
3Productivity
If conventional transport vehicles are used in confined spaces, then basic transport function is achieved, but maneuverability and precision positioning are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The UGVs employ omnidirectional wheels that enable dynamic movement in any direction without requiring large turning radii. This dynamic mobility allows precise positioning and easy maneuvering in confined spaces while maintaining basic transport function, overcoming the limitations of conventional fixed-axle vehicles
4Adaptability or versatility
If modular load-receiving elements are used, then adaptability to different loads is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load-receiving capability is segmented into standardized, interchangeable elements that can be attached to different UGVs. These modular elements provide adaptability to various load types and sizes while keeping individual component complexity low through standardization and simple attachment mechanisms
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4(A)~4(B)
AI summary
An unmanned ground-based transport vehicle (100), UGV, includes a housing (1), having a base plate and at least one housing side wall (1a) that is substantially perpendicular to the base plate. Arranged in the housing (1) is at least one wheel drive, which is coupled to at least one wheel. The wheel is arranged in a recess in the base plate. The UGV further includes a plurality of sensors for sensing the environment of the UGV, and a controller for autonomous location and navigation of the UGV on the basis of sensing parameters of the plurality of sensors. The UGV includes at least one load-receiving element (6) that is coupled to the housing side wall (1a) and extends outwards from the housing side wall (1a), wherein the load-receiving element (6) comprises a load support surface (60) for supporting an item with respect to a vertical direction which extends transverse to the base plate.