Dock assembly for autonomous modular sweeper robot
US11903554B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 1, 2021 |
| Grant date | Feb 20, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 20, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G2203/042
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A dock assembly is provided. The dock assembly is configured for docking with a robot. An alignment platform of said dock assembly is configured to receive a sweeper module from the robot when the robot is docked and said sweeper module disengages from the robot. The alignment platform has a plurality of cones positioned on a top side of the alignment platform. The plurality of cones are configured to engage a plurality of holes positioned on an underside of the sweeper module when the sweeper module becomes disengaged from the robot. The plurality of cones enable self-alignment of the alignment platform to the sweeper module as the plurality of cones engage the plurality of holes. The alignment platform has a plurality of support pads positioned on a bottom side of the alignment platform. The support pads are configured to rest on a plurality of bearings that permit lateral movement of the alignment platform when the plurality of cones engage the plurality of holes and the alignment platform self-aligns to the sweeper module.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.