Tool-supporting self-propelled robot platform
US4536690A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 19, 1982 |
| Grant date | Aug 20, 1985 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 19, 2002 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG05B2219/50215
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A self-propelled robot platform consists of a frame with a plurality of casters to support the frame on and space the frame from a supporting surface, as well as permitting any selected direction of movement over the support surface. At least two linear motors are arranged on the frame transversely to one another and generally parallel to the support surface and so that their flux links the support surface. The support surface is preferably a conductor such that by a combination of signals to the respective motor means, the motor fluxes linking the supporting surface will drive the platform. The platform is provided with tool support means and that tool support means includes articulation structure with associated drive means which permits tool positioning. As a consequence, the robot platform may be moved over the surface in a predetermined pattern doing work with a supported tool or it may be moved from point to point where work is to be done where the tool is actuated either manually or by programmed information. If the support surface is magnetic, the surface need not be horizontal to hold the platform. A system for driving the platform includes input means for selecting platfo…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.