Modular Robotic Crawler
First Claim
Patent Images
1. A method of tailoring a modular robotic crawler to perform a sequence of differing functions, comprising:
- selecting a plurality of segment modules from a preexisting collection of compatible segment modules providing different functionality based on a planned operational scenario of functions to be performed, the modules each having at least one intercoupleable interface; and
intercoupling the selected segment modules in a series arrangement to form a modular robotic crawler capable of performing the scenario of functions.
3 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A modular robotic crawler can be formed by intercoupling a selected plurality of segment modules from a preexisting collection of differing compatible segment modules. The segment modules can have at least one intercoupleable interface. The selection can be based on a planned operational scenario of functions to be performed.
-
Citations
27 Claims
-
1. A method of tailoring a modular robotic crawler to perform a sequence of differing functions, comprising:
-
selecting a plurality of segment modules from a preexisting collection of compatible segment modules providing different functionality based on a planned operational scenario of functions to be performed, the modules each having at least one intercoupleable interface; and intercoupling the selected segment modules in a series arrangement to form a modular robotic crawler capable of performing the scenario of functions. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
-
-
8. A modular robotic crawler system comprising:
-
a) a plurality of segment modules linked in a sequential chain, the plurality of segment modules including at least one intermediary segment module; b) the at least one intermediary segment modules having; i) a segment body, ii) a first coupler positioned at a first end of the segment body, and iii) a second coupler positioned at a second end of the segment body, iv) wherein the first coupler and second coupler are compatible so that a plurality of intermediary segments can be sequentially coupled; and c) wherein at least one of the segment modules comprises a propulsion device for moving the modular robotic crawler. - View Dependent Claims (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20)
-
-
21. A modular robotic crawler system comprising:
-
a) a plurality of segment modules, the segment modules being alternatively attachable and detachable to each other at a coupler portion and intercompatible so that any segment module may be coupled to any other segment module, the plurality of segment modules, when coupled together, forming a multi-functional modular robotic crawler; b) at least one segment module providing at least a first propulsion mode; and c) at least one segment module providing at least a second propulsion mode different from the first propulsion mode. - View Dependent Claims (22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27)
-
Specification