Method for the automated docking of robotic platforms

US11609573B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• FLORIDA POWER & LIGHT COMPANY · US

Inventors

• Eric D. Schwartz · Pittsford, US
• Stephen Cross · North Palm Beach, US
• Michael L. Gilbertson · Arlington, US
• Kyle Bush · Monet, US
• David Wendeborn · Portland, US
• Richard Armstrong · Corona, US
• Scott Nowicki · Portland, US
• Seth Hill · Lemon Grove, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Oct 30, 2019
• Grant date: Mar 21, 2023
• Expiry date: Jul 31, 2041

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y02T90/12
• WIPO field: Control
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Various embodiments are directed to a method for docking a robotic platform. The method may include receiving a robotic platform onto a ramp of a docking station. The docking station may include the ramp, a roller assembly, a base pad, and a roller backstop assembly. The ramp may have a first side and a second side opposing the first side. The method may further include guiding, by the roller assembly, the robotic platform as the robotic platform is being driven onto ramp such that the robotic platform continues powered travel over the ramp when the robotic platform approaches the ramp within an angle range of 0 and 15 degrees with respect to either of the first and second sides of the ramp. The method may further include receiving, by the roller backstop assembly, the robotic platform from the roller assembly and then docking the robotic platform.