Autonomous robot auto-docking and energy management systems and methods
US7332890B2 · kind B2 · utility
414Cited by
238References
18Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 21, 2004 |
| Grant date | Feb 19, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 17, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S901/01
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method for energy management in a robotic device includes providing a base station for mating with the robotic device, determining a quantity of energy stored in an energy storage unit of the robotic device, and performing a predetermined task based at least in part on the quantity of energy stored. Also disclosed are systems for emitting avoidance signals to prevent inadvertent contact between the robot and the base station, and systems for emitting homing signals to allow the robotic device to accurately dock with the base station.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.