Robotic service device and handling method
AssigneeOcado Innovation Limited
InventorsMark Fryer, Andy Ingram-Tedd, Siddique Shaikh, Sverker Lindbo
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A robotic service device is described for use on a robotic picking system grid. The robotic service device is capable of driving to any location on the grid order to perform maintenance operations or cleaning. Additionally, the service device may be used to rescue robotic load handling devices operational in the picking system. The robotic service device may include a releasable docking mechanism to enable it to dock and latch on to malfunctioning load handling devices. The service device may also be provided with cleaning capability and a camera to enable the condition of the grid and other robotic devices to be monitored.
Claims18
A service device for operation on a robotic picking system, the service device comprising:
- a body mounted on a first and a second set of wheels, the first set of wheels being configured and arranged to engage with at least two rails of a first set of rails, the second set of wheels being configured and arranged to engage with at least two rails of a second set of rails such that the first and the second sets of rails form a grid, the first set of wheels being independently moveable and drivable with respect to the second set of wheels such that only one set of wheels will engage with the grid at any one time thereby enabling movement of the service device to a point on the grid by driving only the engaged set of wheels at a given time;
- a releasable latching mechanism, the latching mechanism being operable to releasably connect the service device to a malfunctioning load handling device when present on the grid, the latching mechanism being operable to isolate the malfunctioning load handling device from the grid with the service device being configurable to assume control of the malfunctioning load handling device and move the malfunctioning load handling device to a predetermined position on the grid, wherein the malfunctioning load handling device is operable on the grid, and the malfunctioning load handling device and the service device are remotely maneuverable;
- and
- a traction measurement system having drive means for driving the first set of wheels when engaged with the grid whilst stopping engagement of the second set of wheels with the grid, said drive means being controlled by an electronic control means.
A service device for operation on a robotic picking system, the service device comprising:
- a body mounted on a first and a second set of wheels, the first set of wheels being configured and arranged to engage with at least two rails of a first set of rails, the second set of wheels being configured and arranged to engage with at least two rails of a second set of rails such that the first and the second sets of rails form a grid, the first set of wheels being independently moveable and drivable with respect to the second set of wheels such that only one set of wheels will engage with the grid at any one time thereby enabling movement of the service device to a point on the grid by driving only the engaged set of wheels at a given time;
- a cleaning mechanism having means configured for removing contaminants present on the grid system, wherein a malfunctioning load handling device is operable on the grid, and the malfunctioning load handling device and the service device are remotely maneuverable;
- and
- a traction measurement system having drive means for driving the first set of wheels when engaged with the grid whilst stopping engagement of the second set of wheels with the grid, said drive means being controlled by an electronic control means.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.