Synchronized Mobile Robots for Versatile Load Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load handling systems are limited in their adaptability to different types of loads, environments, and require multiple operators or specialized personnel, making them unsuitable for various applications and environments.
Innovation Solution
A collaborative handling system comprising a fleet of mobile robots with synchronized lifting and movement elements, controlled by a master robot, allowing adaptation to diverse loads and environments, operated by a single operator, and featuring compact design and improved maneuverability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If dedicated handling equipment is used for specific load types, then handling efficiency for that load type is improved, but adaptability to different load types and environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a fleet of mobile handling robots with identical standardized structures that can handle various load types (pallets, drums, boxes, etc.) through a master-slave synchronization system. The master robot receives operator commands and coordinates multiple slave robots to work together, creating a universal handling system that adapts to different loads without requiring specialized equipment for each load type.
Solution Approach 2:
The handling system is divided into independent mobile robot units that can operate individually or in coordination. Each robot is a self-contained module with lifting means and movement elements, allowing the system to segment handling tasks across multiple units and reconfigure based on load requirements.
2Productivity
If traditional handling systems are used, then handling capability for specific loads is improved, but requirement for multiple operators or specialized personnel increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple robot control functions into a single master robot that coordinates the entire fleet. The master robot receives commands from one operator and automatically distributes tasks to slave robots, merging what would traditionally require multiple operators into a single control point, thereby reducing operational complexity while maintaining handling capability.
3Productivity
If specialized handling equipment is used, then handling performance for specific applications is improved, but maneuverability in confined spaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs mobile robots with dynamic movement capabilities that can adapt their motion to the environment. The robots can navigate confined spaces and adjust their positioning based on real-time conditions, providing both handling performance and maneuverability that rigid specialized equipment cannot achieve.
Data Source
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Figure 6a~8b
AI summary
The invention relates to a collaborative system for handling any load (12) on a handling surface (11), comprising a fleet of mobile handling robots (100; 200; 300; 400; 500; 600), each comprising a chassis (101), members for moving the chassis on said handling surface (11) and means for lifting said load carried by said chassis (101), said system further comprising: a control unit (142) configured to be able to provide to a master robot (100) reference commands of said lifting means and said movement members of said robot; and synchronization means (130,136, 138, 139) of said robots configured to be able to provide to each slave robot (200; 300; 400; 500; 600) commands derived from said lifting means and said movement members of said slave robot determined from said reference commands of said master robot (100), in order to enable collaborative handling of said load (12).