Autonomous robot auto-docking and energy management systems and methods
US8390251B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 6, 2007 |
| Grant date | Mar 5, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 6, 2027 |
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. Also disclosed are systems and methods for confirming a presence of a robotic device docked with a charger by recognizing a load formed by a circuit in the charger combined with a complementary circuit in the robotic device.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.