This is the first commercially viable robot system of its kind, using a novel connection mechanism as the basis of a modular, reconfigurable robotic system that can be used to build a larger robot composed of many smaller robotic units.
Whilst current modular robot systems offer comparable general-purpose physical functionality, manufacturing costs have remained prohibitively high for commercial exploitation.
Edinburgh’s modular robotics system is built around a robust, yet flexible, interlocking system that provides a physical connection between modules as well as power and communication sharing. It marries the usability of non-gendered connection mechanisms, with the cost effectiveness of gendered designs, thus bringing a commercially viable solution significantly closer.
The overall structure and functionality of the robot can be changed easily by the user, or indeed by the robot itself. The connector enables a collection of modules to be augmented with useful appendages such as screen, manipulator arm, camera, projector, wheels, etc.
Various modules combined with the connector create a general-purpose robotic platform that has many envisioned applications in home and hobbyist computing, as well as automated manufacture and rapid prototyping. It is also designed to scale to larger applications employing any number of modules in all kinds of environments.
The technology provides a licensable interface for third-party developers to connect their own specially designed and existing products to a modular configuration. Such developers may include specialist hardware suppliers adding elements such as haptic input devices, novel output devices, etc.
Key Benefits:
- Reduces the need for expensive components
- Strong latching mechanism between oppositely gendered faces of robot modules
- Increases the configuration space available in comparison to common gendered designs
- Delivers power to modules, reducing modules requiring their own batteries
- Self-corrects misalignment errors and permits docking around 90 degree rotational symmetries
Applications:
- Industrial, packaging and manufacturing robotics
- Military, surveillance and security robotics
- Robots for remote, extreme or difficult environments
- Hobbyist, DIY, and home robotics
IP Status:
The inventor is developing prototypes and manufacturing plans that use this system. Detailed CAD drawings for physical and electronic specification are available. A UK patent (Number 1018632.8) has been filed claiming priority from November 1, 2010. The University of Edinburgh is seeking: (i) Partners interested in developing or manufacturing products using this technology; (ii) Licensees interested in licensing this technology on a non-exclusive basis for incorporation with their existing products; (iii) Investors in a future spinout company based on the technology.
More information: http://ut.webwisebusiness.co.uk/opportunity/214/robotic-glue-a-novel-connector-for-cost-effective-modular-reconfigurable-multi-functional-robots
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