Patent attributes
An autonomous robot moves materials in a warehouse or other industrial environment. It runs on an electric motor powered by a rechargeable battery. When its battery becomes depleted, it maneuvers to a nearby charger. It guides itself to the charger using visual cues, such as a target on or near the charger, until it establishes a good electrical connection with the charger. Proximity sensors on the charger and/or the autonomous robot determine if the autonomous robot is positioned properly; if so, the charger begins charging the autonomous robot's battery. While charging, the charger monitors the resistance of the electrical connection for open- or short-circuit conditions. It also monitors the status of the proximity sensors. If the charger detects an open-circuit or a short-circuit or that the autonomous robot has moved away from the charger, the charger stops charging.
