Ronald Eugene Griffin

US Patent:

53238672, Jun 28, 1994

Filed:

Mar 6, 1992

Appl. No.:

7/847627

Inventors:

Ronald Griffin - Agua Dulce CA
Eric J. Allard - Granada Hills CA

International Classification:

B62D 502
B62D 1108

US Classification:

180 22

Abstract:

A robot transport platform adapted for locomotion, having a base with three wheels on each side. Of the three wheels on each side, the wheels near the fore end and the aft end are omnidirectional wheels; the intermediate wheel in between the omnidirectional wheels is a conventional wheel. The omnidirectional wheels have staggered rows of spherical rollers rotatably mounted to the circumference of the wheel's hub. More precisely, the rollers are mounted to annular shafts that circumscribe the circumference of the hub, and are supported in an overlying position over the hub by radially extending spokes. Anti-rattle washers are provided in between adjacent rollers. Torque is provided by two electric motors independently operating the wheels on each side. Torque is transferred to the wheels via a gear box, a chain, and cogged drive belts. The robot transport platform is controlled by radio and accordingly has a radio receiver mounted to the base.