Autonomous Utility Cart With Modular Frame and Layered Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing autonomous robotic delivery carts have inflexible designs, leading to high manufacturing costs, limited customization, and require manual loading/unloading, which increases operational inefficiencies and costs.
Innovation Solution
A customizable robotic delivery cart with a structural frame made from Aluminum extrusions, integrated navigational sensors, and propulsion systems, allowing for easy reconfiguration and autonomous operation, including advanced sensing systems for navigating tight spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If rigid robotic delivery cart designs are used, then autonomous operation capability is achieved, but customization flexibility is inhibited and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic cart is divided into modular components including a base platform, removable payload containers, and interchangeable sensor arrays. Each module can be independently configured or replaced to adapt to different delivery scenarios without redesigning the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The cart employs universal mounting interfaces and standardized connection protocols that allow the same base platform to support multiple payload types and sensor configurations, enabling one design to serve multiple delivery use cases.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom parts are manufactured for each use case, then specific operational requirements are met, but manufacturing costs and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamically reconfigurable components that can be quickly assembled and disassembled through simple mechanical interfaces, allowing the cart to adapt to different operational requirements without requiring expensive custom manufacturing for each scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The cart's configuration is adjusted by changing physical parameters such as payload weight, sensor placement, and container dimensions through modular assembly rather than manufacturing new parts, enabling cost-effective adaptation to different delivery needs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If few sensors are used, then device complexity is reduced, but navigation capability in crowded spaces is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing system employs a nested architecture where multiple sensor types (ultrasonic, infrared, optical) are integrated at different levels, with each sensor type operating at a specific range and providing complementary data that enhances overall navigation capability without requiring a single complex sensor system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate processing layers that filter and integrate data from multiple simple sensors, creating a coherent navigation system that achieves complex navigation capabilities through coordinated simple components rather than relying on individually complex sensors.
4Productivity
If manual loading and unloading is required, then device complexity is reduced, but operational efficiency and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The cart is equipped with autonomous payload handling capabilities including automated container attachment/detachment mechanisms and self-positioning features that allow the cart to service itself without human intervention for loading and unloading operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning payloads in standardized containers and pre-configuring delivery routes, enabling the cart to execute delivery tasks autonomously without requiring manual loading and unloading during operation.
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, cost-effective operation in various environments with reduced manual intervention, enhancing navigation capabilities and reducing manufacturing and operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) unit
Implementation Method 2
an array of ultrasonic sensors
Data Source
AI summary
A system and a method for facilitating the autonomous navigation of a utility and delivery cart implements new means for a motorized cart to operate in different environments under specific operational conditions. The system includes a structural frame, a controller, a plurality of navigational sensors, a portable power source, a pair of caster wheels, and a pair of motorized wheels. The structural frame corresponds to the main structure of the system that can be customized to carry different payloads and accommodate different accessories. The pair of caster wheels and the pair of motorized wheels enable the movement of the structural frame. The controller and the plurality of navigational sensors allow the autonomous operation of the pair of motorized wheels under specific operational configurations. The portable power source provides the power necessary for the operation of the controller, the plurality of navigational sensors, and the pair of motorized wheels.