DESC:AN ELECTRICALLY POWERED WHEELBARROW
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present disclosure relates to an electrically powered wheelbarrow. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to the electrically powered wheelbarrow having a detachably mountable container to transport heavy material over short distances.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Traditional wheelbarrows rely on manual effort to transport goods over short distances. The amount/volume of the transported good is limited by a material carrying capacity of the traditional wheelbarrow and the strength and endurance of an operator. Using traditional wheelbarrows require a significant amount of physical effort from the operator which can cause physical strain to the operator thereby reducing the efficiency and productivity of the operator. Also, the traditional wheelbarrows are difficult to maneuver on rough terrain which further increases the risk of accidents and may lead to damage of the materials being transported.
Accordingly, the traditional wheelbarrows are inefficient in terms of time and energy as they require multiple trips to transport a large amount of material which results in a wastage of time and increased labor costs. Therefore, in view of the above-mentioned problems, there is a need to provide an electrically powered wheelbarrow that can eliminate one or more above-mentioned problems associated with the traditional wheelbarrow.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that is further described in the detailed description of the invention. This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.
The present disclosure provides an electrically powered wheelbarrow having a controller to control various components of the electrically powered wheelbarrow, and a battery to power the electrically powered wheelbarrow. The electrically powered wheelbarrow further has a heavy-duty drive transaxle with a heavy material carrying capacity and an integrated gearbox for providing high torque. The transaxle is fitted with an electromagnetic braking system for improved safety. The electrically powered wheelbarrow also has a column-mounted servo-assist steering wheel that aids in effortless rotation of the steering wheel. The electrically powered wheelbarrow further has an AC induction motor with vector control and Field-Oriented Control (FOC) control that achieves precise control over speed and torque while also optimizing performance and efficiency of the electrically powered wheelbarrow. The electrically powered wheelbarrow also has a hydraulic tank to store the hydraulic fluid, a hydraulic pump to provide the power to a hydraulic cylinder to lift a detachably mountable container and discharge materials present inside the detachably mountable container.
Advantageously, the electrically powered wheelbarrow enables efficient transfer of the material over short distances as compared to traditional wheelbarrows. The electrically powered wheelbarrow saves time and effort of workers who would otherwise have to exert a lot of physical effort to move the material from one place to another. The electrically powered wheelbarrow also improves safety in the workplace because the transaxle is fitted with the electromagnetic braking system which, in the event of an emergency, will stop the electrically powered wheelbarrow immediately and automatically as soon as the power is turned off. Additionally, a hydraulic system is provided in the electrically powered wheelbarrow that allows for easy and safe dumping of the material. Therefore, the electrically powered wheelbarrow is reliable and efficient for transporting the heavy material over difficult terrain and provides improved safety and versatility over traditional wheelbarrows.
To further clarify the advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:
Figure 1 illustrates a schematic view of an electrically powered wheelbarrow, according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 2 illustrates an isometric view of the electrically powered wheelbarrow, according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 3 illustrates a side view of the electrically powered wheelbarrow, according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 4 illustrates a rear view of the electrically powered wheelbarrow, according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 5 illustrates a top view of the electrically powered wheelbarrow, according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 5a illustrates a transmission arrangement of the electrically powered wheelbarrow, according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 6 illustrates a schematic representation of an autonomous electrically powered wheelbarrow, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the flow charts illustrate the method in terms of the most prominent steps involved to help to improve understanding of aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OFTHE INVENTION
While the embodiments in the invention are subject to various modifications and alternative forms, the specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the figures and will be described below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the invention.
For example, the term “some” as used herein may be understood as “none” or “one” or “more than one” or “all.” Therefore, the terms “none,” “one,” “more than one,” “more than one, but not all” or “all” would fall under the definition of “some.” It should be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the terminology and structure employed herein is for describing, teaching, and illuminating some embodiments and their specific features and elements and therefore, should not be construed to limit, restrict or reduce the spirit and scope of the present disclosure in any way.
For example, any terms used herein such as, “includes,” “comprises,” “has,” “consists,” and similar grammatical variants do not specify an exact limitation or restriction, and certainly do not exclude the possible addition of a plurality of features or elements, unless otherwise stated. Further, such terms must not be taken to exclude the possible removal of the plurality of the listed features and elements, unless otherwise stated, for example, by using the limiting language including, but not limited to, “must comprise” or “needs to include.”
Whether or not a certain feature or element was limited to being used only once, it may still be referred to as “plurality of features” or “plurality of elements” or “at least one feature” or “at least one element.” Furthermore, the use of the terms “plurality of” or “at least one” feature or element do not preclude there being none of that feature or element, unless otherwise specified by limiting language including, but not limited to, “there needs to be plurality of...” or “plurality of elements is required.”
Unless otherwise defined, all terms and especially any technical and/or scientific terms, used herein may be taken to have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person ordinarily skilled in the art.
Reference is made herein to some “embodiments.” It should be understood that an embodiment is an example of a possible implementation of any features and/or elements of the present disclosure. Some embodiments have been described for the purpose of explaining plurality of the potential ways in which the specific features and/or elements of the proposed disclosure fulfil the requirements of uniqueness, utility, and non-obviousness.
Use of the phrases and/or terms including, but not limited to, “a first embodiment,” “a further embodiment,” “an alternate embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “multiple embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “other embodiments,” “further embodiment”, “furthermore embodiment”, “additional embodiment” or other variants thereof do not necessarily refer to the same embodiments. Unless otherwise specified, plurality of particular features and/or elements described in connection with plurality of embodiments may be found in one embodiment, or may be found in more than one embodiment, or may be found in all embodiments, or may be found in no embodiments. Although plurality of features and/or elements may be described herein in the context of only a single embodiment, or in the context of more than one embodiment, or in the context of all embodiments, the features and/or elements may instead be provided separately or in any appropriate combination or not at all. Conversely, any features and/or elements described in the context of separate embodiments may alternatively be realized as existing together in the context of a single embodiment.
Any particular and all details set forth herein are used in the context of some embodiments and therefore should not necessarily be taken as limiting factors to the proposed disclosure.
It is to be noted that a person skilled in the art would be motivated from the present invention to modify an electrically powered wheelbarrow as disclosed herein. However, such modifications should be construed to be within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the drawings show only those specific details that are pertinent to understand the embodiments of the present invention, so as not to obscure the invention with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.
Accordingly, the electrically powered wheelbarrow is described with reference to the figures and specific embodiments; this description is not meant to be constructed in a limiting sense.
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Figure 1 to Figure 6 describes the electrically powered wheelbarrow according to an embodiment of the invention. The invention discloses an electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. The wheelbarrow 100 includes a framed chassis 126 having at least two distinct sections. An electronic unit 126a housed within the first section of the chassis 126. A transmission arrangement 126b is housed within the second distinct section of the chassis 126 and is operably coupled to the electronic unit 126a. A steering means 102 is mounted on the first distinct section of the chassis. The steering means 102 is operably coupled to the transmission arrangement 126b and the electronic unit 126a. A detachably mountable container 122 is mounted on the second distinct section of the chassis 126.
The wheelbarrow as described herein above briefly, shall be explained in detail as embodiments of the invention.
The electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 includes a framed chassis 126 having at least two distinct sections. The chassis 126 is configured to be mounted on a plurality of wheels. In one of the embodiment of the invention, the chassis 126 is mounted on a front wheel axle and a rear wheel axle. In one of the embodiment of the invention, the front wheel axle has two wheels 108 and the rear wheel axle has one wheel 132. An electronic unit 126a is housed within the first section of the chassis 126. The electronic unit 126a is configured for powering and operating the wheelbarrow 100. The electronic unit 126a includes a controller 104 having a machine sensory system 624, a machine perception system 626, a machine operation system 628, and a battery arrangement 106 to power the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. The machine sensory system 624 senses the area of interest and identifies the wheelbarrow 100 within a said perimeter. The machine perception system 626 establishes a communication between the vehicle and the operator. In one of the embodiment of the invention, the communication is a short-range communication between the vehicle and the operator, a vehicle-to-vehicle communication or a vehicle to a network communication. The machine operation system 628 operates the vehicle. A transmission arrangement 126b is housed within the second distinct section of the chassis 126. The transmission arrangement 126b is operably coupled to the electronic unit 126a. The transmission arrangement 126b includes a heavy-duty drive transaxle 110 with an integrated gearbox 112, an electromagnetic braking system 114 and an electric motor 115 coupled to the transaxle 110. In one of the embodiment of the invention, the motor is provided with at least one of a vector control, a Field-Oriented Control (FOC) for regulating the speed and torque. A steering means 102 is mounted on the first distinct section of the chassis 126. The steering means 102 is operably coupled to the transmission arrangement 126b and the electronic unit 126a. The steering means 102 can be a manual steering, an electronic steering, an assisted steering or an autonomous steering. A detachably mountable container 122 is mounted on the second distinct section of the chassis 126. The container 122 loads and unloads goods of interest. The container 122 operates through a hydraulic means, an electronic means or a combination thereof.
The electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is powered by the battery arrangement 106. The battery arrangement 106 provides energy required to run the electric motor 115 that further powers the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. In one of the embodiment of the invention, the battery arrangement 106 is rechargeable. In one of the embodiment of the invention, two separate batteries are employed for traction and to energize the electromagnetic braking system 114. A primary battery provides power for the movement of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. The primary battery supplies electrical energy to the electric motor 115, which drives the wheels of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. The primary battery delivers necessary voltage and current to support the movement of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 over various terrains and for extended periods of operation. In one of the embodiment of the invention, the primary battery is selected form a group consisting of a lead acid battery or a lithium-ion battery. In another embodiment of the invention, the primary battery is a 76V 2.2kW and 30Ah Lithium-ion battery. An auxiliary battery actuates the electromagnetic braking system 114 in the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. The electromagnetic braking system 114 is in a locked and engaged state to ensure safety of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 when the electrically powered battery 106 is not in operation. The auxiliary battery energizes the brakes and unlocks the electromagnetic braking system 114 when a key is switched in a control panel (not shown) of the electrically powered battery 106 and simultaneously a main switch is also turned ON. An electronic interlock system within the electromagnetic braking system 114 releases the brakes allowing the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 to move. In one of the embodiment of the invention, the auxiliary battery is selected from a group consisting of a lead acid battery or a lithium-ion battery. In another embodiment of the invention, the auxiliary battery is a 24 V and 35 Ah Lithium-ion battery. The electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 ensures availability of power for both essential functions without compromising safety by employing separate batteries for traction and the electromagnetic braking system 114. The primary battery enables efficient movement while the auxiliary battery specifically caters to unlocking and actuation of the electromagnetic braking system 114 thereby allowing for controlled and safe operation of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. The controller 104 controls speed and direction of the electric motor 115 and manages the flow of power from the battery arrangement 106 to the electric motor 115. The controller 104 receives input from an operator through the steering means 102 and the control panel (not shown) of an instrument cluster (not shown) and adjusts the speed of the electric motor 115 accordingly. The instrument cluster (not shown) of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 monitors the speed, the distance travelled, the direction of travel, the State-of-Charge (SOC) of the primary battery, the State-of-Charge (SOC) of the auxiliary battery, the number of container actuation cycle and the health of the controller 104 of electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. The instrument cluster has a control panel. The control panel has a plurality of buttons to provide inputs from the operator. The control panel have but is not limited to, a speed adjustment button, a container actuation button, an emergency button, an electromagnetic braking system activation button and a start-stop button. The electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 includes the steering means 102, a handlebar 124 and a platform 128. The steering means 102 uses a small electric motor 115 to provide additional assistance to the operator when turning the steering means 102. In one of the embodiment of the invention, the steering means 102 is a servo-assisted steering wheel. In one of the embodiment of the invention, the electric motor used is a servo motor. When an operator turns the steering means 102, a signal is sent to the electric motor 115. The electric motor responds to the signal by applying additional torque to the steering means 102 thereby enabling the steering means 102 to rotate smoothly. The steering means 102 is mounted on a column which is connected to the rear axle of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. The steering means 102 is attached to a series of linkages and gears that transfer a movement of the steering means 102 to the wheels 108 and 132, causing them to turn in a direction of rotation of the steering means 102. The combination of the column-mounted steering means 102 and the electric motor 115 provides the operator with precise and effortless control over the direction of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 thereby providing an easier and safer maneuvering of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 in different types of terrain and working conditions. The electric motor 115 assistance to the steering means 102 reduces fatigue and strain on the operator resulting in increased productivity and efficiency. The steering means 102 has 180 degrees of freedom of movement allowing for sharp turns and easy maneuverability in tight spaces. During the operation, the operator may stand on the platform 128 and hold the handlebar 124 for support. The platform 128 is collapsible and is folded inside a frame of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. The platform 128 is stretched out whenever required by the operator. The handlebar 124 works in tandem with the steering means 102. The operator is able to rotate the steering means 102 through the handlebar 124.
The electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 has a hydraulic system to operate the detachable mountable container 122. When the operator gives a command from the control panel (not shown), the controller 104 receives signals from the control panel (not shown) and sends a corresponding output to operate the hydraulic system to operate the detachably mountable container 122. The hydraulic system includes a hydraulic tank 120, a hydraulic pump 118 and a hydraulic cylinder 116. The hydraulic tank 120 serves as a reservoir for a hydraulic fluid when the hydraulic fluid is not in use. The hydraulic tank 120 is located beneath the detachably mountable container 122 within the frame of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. The hydraulic pump 118 is a mechanical device that draws the hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic tank 120 and generates a hydraulic pressure. The hydraulic pressure is generated by creating a flow of the hydraulic fluid through the hydraulic system. The hydraulic pump 118 is located near the hydraulic tank 120 and is driven by a hydraulic motor (not shown). The hydraulic cylinder 116 converts the hydraulic pressure into a mechanical force. The hydraulic cylinder 116 lifts the detachably mountable container 122 and discharges the heavy material. The hydraulic cylinder 116 includes a cylinder barrel (not shown), a piston (not shown), and a piston rod (not shown). When the hydraulic pump 118 generates pressure, the hydraulic fluid enters the hydraulic cylinder 116 and pushes the piston (not shown), which in turn moves the piston rod (not shown) and lifts the detachably mountable container 122. The electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 has a transaxle. The transaxle combines the functionality of a transmission component, an axle component, and a differential component into a single mechanical unit. The transaxle is provided in the rear wheel axle of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. The transaxle of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 includes a differential gearbox 112 and a drive axle 110. The transmission component of the transaxle consists of a plurality of gears that are used to transfer the power from the drive motor 115 to the wheels 108. The plurality of gears are arranged in different configurations, depending on the specific design and performance requirements of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. The plurality of gears used in electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 includes spur gears, helical gears, bevel gears or planetary gears. Gear ratio of the plurality of gears provided in the integrated gearbox 112 is 1:36 which means that for every rotation of an input gear, an output gear rotates 36 times. This high gear ratio allows the drive motor (not shown) to produce a high amount of torque which is necessary for carrying the heavy material and operating on rough terrain. The electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is able to carry the heavy material in a range of 800 kgs to 1000 kgs. The electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 has grade ability in a range between 500 and 600 kgs with the operator on board which allows the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 to transport the material across uneven or inclined terrain efficiently. The axle component of the transaxle provides a support structure for the wheels 108 and distributes weight of the material evenly between the wheels 108. The axle component includes a drive axle 110. The drive axle 110 is designed in different shapes and sizes, depending on the material and terrain requirements of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100.The differential component of the transaxle allows each wheel 108 to rotate at different speeds, which is necessary when the wheelbarrow 100 is turning. The differential component is designed in different ways, such as an open differential, a limited-slip differential, or a locking differential, depending on the specific requirements of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. By combining the transmission component, the axle component and the differential component into the single mechanical unit, the transaxle provides a more compact and efficient solution for transmitting power to the wheels 108. In the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100, the transaxle is responsible for transmitting the power from the drive motor 115 to the wheels 108, as well as supporting the weight of the material and providing traction on different types of terrain. The axle of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is fitted with an electromagnetic braking system 114. The electromagnetic braking system 114 is actuated as soon as the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is switched on. The electromagnetic braking system 114 provides improved safety for the operator in the event of an emergency. The electromagnetic braking system 114 stops the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 immediately even if the operator is unable to do so manually as soon as the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is switched off. If there is a power outage or any other interruption in power supply, the electromagnetic braking system 114 automatically stop the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 preventing any accidents or damage. The operator presses the push buttons provided on the control panel to activate the electromagnetic braking system 114 to immediately stop the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100.
The electromagnetic braking system 114 includes one or more disc brakes that are actuated by an electromagnetic mechanism. When the operator presses a brake pedal or a push button on the control panel, an electric current is applied to the electromagnetic mechanism. The electromagnetic mechanism generates a magnetic field that pulls on a plurality of brake pads, causing them to make contact with the one or more disc brakes. A frictional force is generated which slows down or stops the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. In one of the embodiment of the invention, the drive motor 115 is an AC induction motor. In the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100, the AC induction motor converts the electrical energy from the battery 106 into the mechanical energy that is used to drive the wheels 108, 132. In one of the embodiment of the invention, the motor capacity of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is 2 kW. In one of the embodiment of the invention, the electric motor 115 is vector controlled. Through the vector control technique the speed and torque of the drive motor is precisely controlled. The vector control involves using complex mathematical algorithms to analyse electrical and magnetic properties of the drive motor and then adjusting a current supplied to the drive motor to optimize a performance. In one of the embodiment of the invention, the vector control technique used is Field-Oriented Control (FOC). The FOC works by aligning the magnetic fields of a stator and a rotor of the drive motor which allows for more precise control over the speed and the torque of the drive motor. By using the FOC, the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 may achieve higher levels of efficiency and better performance. The electric motor 115 is capable of operating the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 in both forward and reverse directions which provides greater flexibility and control over a movement of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. The ability to operate the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 in both forward and reverse directions provide several benefits. For example, the operator may easily manoeuvre the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 in tight spaces or easily move the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 back and forth in difficult work areas. The electric motor 115 of electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is designed for low-speed and high-torque operations. As a result, the electric motor 115 generates less heat as compared to motors used in high-speed applications. Hence, there is no need for a cooling mechanism such as a fan to dissipate heat generated during motor operation. Therefore, the electric motor 115 operates efficiently without the need for additional cooling mechanisms thereby reducing the weight and complexity of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. The electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 includes a beacon 130 that is configured to indicate a state of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. The beacon 130 indicates an orange light when the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is in a charging state, indicating that the battery 106 is being charged. The beacon 130 indicates a green light, when the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is moving. The beacon 130 serves as a visual indicator and may help operators to quickly determine the state of operation of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100. The electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is controlled manually with help of the operator but also have the capability to function in a semi-automated mode. The semi-automated mode enables the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 to perform certain tasks autonomously while still allowing manual intervention or control when needed. The semi-automated mode enhances flexibility and usability of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 in a wide range of applications and ensures adaptability to varying operational requirements. In another embodiment of the invention, the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is operated either autonomously or controlled remotely. There are predefined and consistent paths or routes available, such as movement of materials in a warehouse, agricultural applications for spraying or remote surveillance applications. The electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is operated either remotely or autonomously, allowing for efficient transportation of materials without a need of the operator driving the vehicle.
An exemplary embodiment related to the semi-automated and autonomous mode will be explained with respect to Figure 6 which illustrates an autonomous electrically powered wheelbarrow, according to another embodiment of the invention. In one of the embodiment of the invention, the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is controlled remotely. The remotely controlled electric wheelbarrow 100 is controlled through a radio-controlled steering system. The operator of the remotely controlled electric wheelbarrow 100 maneuver and guide the electric wheelbarrow 100 from a remote location which provides flexibility and ease of operation to the operator. In another embodiment of the invention, the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 operates autonomously. The autonomous electric wheelbarrow 100 includes a plurality of systems or layers that work together to create a framework for autonomous driving capability. The plurality of systems includes a machine sensory system Layer A 624, a machine perception system Layer B 626, and a machine operation system Layer C 628. The Layer A 624 of the autonomous electric wheelbarrow 100 collects raw data from a working environment through a plurality of sub-systems. The plurality of sub-systems includes a Global Positioning System (GPS) 602, a LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) with 3D scanning system 604, a radar 606, a vision-based camera 608 and sound sensors 610. The Global Positioning System (GPS) 602 acquires accurate location and positioning information of the autonomous electric wheelbarrow 100. The LIDAR system along with the 3D scanning system 604 is employed to create a detailed and precise representation of the environment that the autonomous electric wheelbarrow 100 is navigating. The radar system 606 detects and measures a distance between the autonomous electric wheelbarrow 100 and nearby objects. The radar system 606 provides additional information on the environment including the presence of other vehicles or nearby obstacles. In one of the embodiment of the invention, the LIDAR system 604 provides advanced navigation capabilities within a specific geographic area, known as a designated geo-fenced area. The LIDAR system 604 utilizes laser technology to measure distances and generates detailed 3D maps of a surrounding environment. The LIDAR system 604 emits laser pulses and measures a duration the laser pulses take to bounce back after hitting objects in the surrounding environment. Data collected by the LIDAR system 604 is used to create a precise and real-time map of the surrounding environment, including position and distance of obstacles. The LIDAR system 604 enables the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 for precise navigation, obstacle detection, and improved awareness of the environment within the designated geo-fenced area. An ability of the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 to detect and avoid obstacles and/or hazards within the designated geo-fenced area through the LIDAR system 604 enables the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 to operate with increased safety and accuracy. A real-time and accurate perception of the environment through the LIDAR system 604 allows the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 to make informed decisions and navigate autonomously. With the LIDAR system 604 in place, the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 detects and avoids obstacles and accordingly locate most efficient route based on the terrain. The autonomous electric wheelbarrow 100 navigates through complex environments, including crowded spaces or challenging terrains with the help of the LIDAR system 604 ensuring the safety and minimizing a risk of accidents. The vision-based camera 608 is utilized to capture visual data, allowing the autonomous electric wheelbarrow 100 to analyze and interpret the environment. The vision-based camera 608 provides images or video feeds that assist in object detection, lane tracking, and other visual-based tasks. The sound sensors 610 are used to capture audio data from the environment. Each of the sub-systems within Layer A collects relevant data related to the environment of the autonomous electric wheelbarrow 100. The collected data is then forwarded to an input data processing unit 612 where the data undergoes initial processing and analysis. The initial processing and analysis involves filtering, noise reduction, calibration and other necessary steps to refine the collected data. The processed data is then transmitted to the Layer B 626 for further interpretation and decision-making. The Machine Perception System Layer B626 receives the processed data from the Layer A 624. The processed data is then integrated and correlated to create a comprehensive understanding of the environment. The integration of the processed data involves integrating the data received from the various sub-systems of the Layer A 624 to obtain a more accurate representation of the environment. The integrated data is then transmitted to a communication system 614 of the Layer B 626. The communication system 614 includes a Vehicle to Network (V2N), a Vehicle to Everything (V2X) and a Vehicle to Vehicle (V2V) communication protocols. The Layer B 626 correlates data and serves as an interface for a display and visual operating system. The Layer B 626 receives other inputs such as user commands or visual feedback and integrates the other inputs with the processed data. The integrated data is then used to provide relevant output to the display and visual operating system enabling effective communication between the autonomous electric wheelbarrow 100 and the operator. The Layer C or the machine operation system 628 is responsible for processing the data received from the Layer A 624 and the Layer B 626. The data collected from the Layer A 624 and the Layer B 626 are combined and fed into a control system 618 through a control module 616. The control module 618 controls the operation of the autonomous electric wheelbarrow 100 within the Layer C 628. The Layer C 628 utilizes the data received from the Layer A 624 and the Layer B 626 to make informed decisions regarding a movement of the autonomous electric wheelbarrow 100. The control module 618 controls various components related to the operation of the autonomous electric wheelbarrow 100, including acceleration, braking, and steering. If the control module 618 detects an obstacle ahead based on the data from the Layer B 626 and the Layer A 624, the control module 618 triggers the electromagnetic braking system 114 to decelerate or stop the autonomous electric wheelbarrow 100 thus preventing a collision. Similarly, the control module 618 adjusts the acceleration and the steering based on the environmental conditions to navigate the autonomous electric wheelbarrow 100 safely.
The electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is capable of transferring heavy material over short distances. The electrically powered wheelbarrow100 have various applications such as in an industry where manual labour is required for the transportation of the heavy material. The electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is used in construction sites to transport the heavy material such as bricks, cement and sand. The electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is used in landscaping and gardening industries to move soil, mulch, rocks, and other heavy items around the property. Further, the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is used in agricultural settings to transport tools, feed, and other supplies around a farm. The electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is also used in warehouses and distribution centres to move heavy items such as boxes and crates around a facility. The electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 has increased efficiency as compared to traditional wheelbarrows thereby saving time and effort of workers who would otherwise have to exert a lot of physical effort to move the material from one place to another. The electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 also improves safety in the workplace. The transaxle is fitted with the electromagnetic braking system 114 which in the event of an emergency, stops the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 immediately and automatically as soon as the power is turned off. The hydraulic system provided in the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 allows for easy and safe dumping of the material. Therefore, the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100 is reliable and efficient for transporting the heavy material over difficult terrain and provides improved safety and versatility over traditional wheelbarrows.
While specific language has been used to describe the present subject matter, any limitations arising on account thereto, are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein. The drawings and the foregoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment.
,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM:
1. An electrically powered wheelbarrow 100, the wheelbarrow 100 comprising of:
a framed chassis 126 having at least two distinct sections, the chassis 126 configured to be mounted on a plurality of wheels;
an electronic unit 126a housed within the first section of the chassis 126, the electronic unit 126a configured for powering and operating the wheelbarrow 100;
a transmission arrangement 126b operably coupled to the electronic unit 126a; the transmission arrangement 126b housed within the second distinct section of the chassis;
a steering means 102, mounted on the first distinct section of the chassis, the steering means 102 operably coupled to the transmission arrangement 126b and the electronic unit 126a; and
a detachably mountable container 122, the container 122 mounted on the second distinct section of the chassis 126,
wherein the wheelbarrow 100 is configured for transportation of a certain good of interest within a confined area of interest.
2. The wheelbarrow as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electronic unit 126a comprises of a controller 104 having a machine sensory system 624, a machine perception system 626, a machine operation system 628, and a battery arrangement 106 to power the electrically powered wheelbarrow 100.
3. The wheelbarrow as claimed in claim 1, wherein the machine sensory system 624 is configured for sensing the area of interest and for identification of the wheelbarrow 100 within a said perimeter.
4. The wheelbarrow as claimed in claim 1, wherein the machine perception system 626 is configured for establishing a communication, the said communication is one of a short-range communication between the vehicle and the operator, a vehicle-to-vehicle communication, a vehicle to a network communication.
5. The wheelbarrow as claimed in claim 1, wherein the machine operation system 628 is configured for operation of the vehicle.
6. The wheelbarrow as claimed in claim 1, wherein the transmission arrangement 126b comprises of a heavy-duty drive transaxle with an integrated gearbox; an electromagnetic braking system 114; an AC induction motor coupled to the transaxle.
7. The wheelbarrow as claimed in claim 1, further wherein the motor is provided with at least one of a vector control, a Field-Oriented Control (FOC) for regulating the speed and torque.
8. The wheelbarrow as claimed in claim 1, wherein the steering means 102 can be a manual steering, an electronic steering, an assisted steering or an autonomous steering.
9. The wheelbarrow as claimed in claim 1, wherein the container 122 is configured for loading and unloading the good of interest.
10. The wheelbarrow as claimed in claim 1, wherein the container 122 can be operated through a hydraulic means, an electronic means or a combination thereof.