EP1673688A2 - Autonomous system with automatic electric recharging - Google Patents

Autonomous system with automatic electric recharging

Info

Publication number
EP1673688A2
EP1673688A2 EP04742694A EP04742694A EP1673688A2 EP 1673688 A2 EP1673688 A2 EP 1673688A2 EP 04742694 A EP04742694 A EP 04742694A EP 04742694 A EP04742694 A EP 04742694A EP 1673688 A2 EP1673688 A2 EP 1673688A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
charging base
fixed charging
intended
movable member
battery
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP04742694A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Erwann Lavarec
Laurent Tremel
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Wany SA
Original Assignee
Wany SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Wany SA filed Critical Wany SA
Publication of EP1673688A2 publication Critical patent/EP1673688A2/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/03—Arrangements for converting the position or the displacement of a member into a coded form
    • G06F3/033—Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user, e.g. mice, trackballs, pens or joysticks; Accessories therefor
    • G06F3/0354—Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user, e.g. mice, trackballs, pens or joysticks; Accessories therefor with detection of 2D relative movements between the device, or an operating part thereof, and a plane or surface, e.g. 2D mice, trackballs, pens or pucks
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
    • G01S3/00—Direction-finders for determining the direction from which infrasonic, sonic, ultrasonic, or electromagnetic waves, or particle emission, not having a directional significance, are being received
    • G01S3/78—Direction-finders for determining the direction from which infrasonic, sonic, ultrasonic, or electromagnetic waves, or particle emission, not having a directional significance, are being received using electromagnetic waves other than radio waves
    • G01S3/782—Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction
    • G01S3/783—Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction using amplitude comparison of signals derived from static detectors or detector systems
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/03—Arrangements for converting the position or the displacement of a member into a coded form
    • G06F3/033—Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user, e.g. mice, trackballs, pens or joysticks; Accessories therefor
    • G06F3/0354—Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user, e.g. mice, trackballs, pens or joysticks; Accessories therefor with detection of 2D relative movements between the device, or an operating part thereof, and a plane or surface, e.g. 2D mice, trackballs, pens or pucks
    • G06F3/03543—Mice or pucks

Definitions

  • 1 invention relates to an autonomous system with automatic electric charging.
  • the purpose of this invention is to make the use of an autonomous system more user-friendly, in particular associated with a computer, such as a pointing system, commonly called a “mouse”, such as a robot, for example operating on a office, and aimed at providing information and / or distracting the user from the computer, or performing useful robotic tasks, for example domestic tasks such as surface treatment, surveillance, telepresence, entertainment, manipulation, or another autonomous mobile robot carrying out an industrial or military application.
  • a computer such as a pointing system, commonly called a “mouse”
  • a robot for example operating on a office
  • useful robotic tasks for example domestic tasks such as surface treatment, surveillance, telepresence, entertainment, manipulation, or another autonomous mobile robot carrying out an industrial or military application.
  • a wireless system with automatic electric charging comprising: a movable member, comprising a battery, in particular of the rechargeable battery type, - a fixed charging base, said fixed charging base comprising: charging stations located in an opening of said fixed charging base, intended to provide a power supply, - transmission means intended to transmit localization signals, in particular in a conical zone of an opening, for example of the order of 45 °, situated in the axis of said opening of said base fixed recharge.
  • Said coded location signals contain information relating to the position of said fixed charging base; said movable member comprising: sensors, in particular of phototransistors type, located at the front and on either side of said movable member, intended to pick up said location signals, a motorization, in particular two motors in tank type configuration, intended to allow:
  • a member according to the invention locates the fixed charging base and moves independently to mate with this fixed charging base in order to recharge its battery.
  • This new system provides a permanent autonomous system.
  • the amount of energy on board can be reduced, thereby saving space and weight.
  • An advantage of the automatic recharging system according to the invention compared to a known recharging system, which would be composed of a shoe on which the user would place his autonomous system to recharge it when he is not using it, is that , in this automated system, the user does not need to have a discipline of use: he uses the system when he needs it, and each time that the user has not used this system for a certain time , the system moves to go to the charging system. The user never encounters the inconvenience of finding his autonomous system unloaded.
  • said system is such that said transmission means of said fixed charging base transmit said location signals discontinuously, in particular 10 ms every second, so that the transmission means are active 1% of the time and inactive 99% of the time, so that the amount of energy emitted by the transmitter is thus limited.
  • said system is such that said motorization is constituted in whole or in part by retractable elements; said retractable elements being actuated automatically in the retracted position by said control means at the end of each coupling of said movable member to said recharging terminals of said fixed charging base, so that the elements constituting the motorization do not impede movement of the member pointing device when these are manually controlled by the user.
  • said movable member comprises sensors intended to measure the displacements of said movable member controlled manually by said user; said control means of said movable member further comprising a microcontroller, associated with said sensors, and intended to activate said motorization according to:
  • said displacement measurements of said movable member made by said sensor, and / or • predetermined parameters, in particular as a function of a determined duration or of a predefined charge level of said battery, so that the motorization is activated when the the user ceases to use the movable member beyond a certain duration and / or when the charge level of the battery of the movable member crosses a determined threshold.
  • said system is such that said fixed charging base is also connected to a power supply, in particular of the sector type, independent of said computer equipment, so that said mobile member can move autonomously to couple to the fixed charging base in order to recharge its battery even when the IT equipment is switched off.
  • the location signals are transmitted in the infrared domain.
  • the movable member is a pointing member, commonly known as a "mouse".
  • the mobile member is a robotic computer peripheral of the “mobile terminal” type operating on a desk and intended to entertain and / or assist the user of the computer.
  • the mobile member is a robotic system performing useful tasks, for example domestic tasks, such as surface treatment, surveillance, telepresence, entertainment, manipulation, or industrial or military applications.
  • the present invention also relates to a method implementing an automatic wireless electric charging method implementing a system according to one of the preceding embodiments.
  • the system consists of a mobile pointing device 1 and a fixed charging base 2.
  • the mobile pointing device 1 is of the computer mouse type, the main function of which is to measure the displacement of the housing relative to the ground and the action of other sensors arranged on this box.
  • This member 1 transmits these measurements by radio waves or by infrared radiation to the computer to which it is useful.
  • the novelty of the system lies in the fact that it is able to move independently and locate itself relative to its charging base 2.
  • the main function of charging base 2 is to provide an electrical voltage allowing the recharging of the pointing member 1.
  • This base 1 is fixed and emits around it a coded infrared field allowing system 1 to locate it in order to direct itself there.
  • the . product is composed of a mains transformer to low voltage, a charging base connected by a connector to the transformer as well as to the computer by an input / output access, such as a USB connector (Universal Sériai Bus ) and a wireless mouse.
  • a USB connector Universal Sériai Bus
  • the mouse In normal operating mode, the mouse translates the user's actions (moving, pressing buttons, wheel actions or other) and transmits them via radio or infrared waves to the charging base and / or directly to the computer.
  • the charging base If the charging base receives this information, it transmits it to the computer via an input / output port (PS2 port, serial port, USB bus or wireless transmission). So far, this is the classic way wireless mice work. When the user stops acting on the mouse and after a predefined delay, the mouse moves autonomously in order to regain the charging base. It stays there as long as the user does not come to look for it and electrically recharge its batteries. A charge control system allows the charge to be stopped when the batteries are charged.
  • the pointing device or mouse must contain the following functionalities: battery, control electronics, connection compatible with the charging base, sensors (movement, switch, wheel, ...), transmission channel (radio / infrared) to the '' computer (whether or not via the charging base), motorization, motor control, drive mechanics (*), charging base location system (*), control system (microcontroller, ASIC.). (*) Additional elements due to technology.
  • FIG. 1 A diagram of operation of the pointing device is found in Fig2.
  • the digital references carried correspond to the following elements: connectors 3, battery 4, regulation 5, sensors 6, processor 7, location 8, transmission 9, mechanics 10, motors 11, energy 12, gauge 13, control 14.
  • this one is motorized in order to be able to return to the charging base.
  • the motorization is not active when using the pointer and must not impede the movement of the user.
  • Motor control can optionally be done within the microcontroller with information from the motion sensor inherent in any pointing system.
  • the location system allows the pointing device to locate the charging base so that it can guide itself and reach it. We will assume that the space between the two elements is free to allow a direct trajectory.
  • the location system placed on the charging base permanently (or cyclically) sends a message in the area where the pointing device is moving. This message allows the latter to be able to converge when it decides on the charging system. Description of the charging base.
  • the charging base must contain the following functions: mains to low voltage voltage converter with connectors compatible with the mobile pointing device,
  • FIG. 1 An operating diagram of the charging base is shown in Fig3.
  • the digital references carried correspond to the following elements: transformer 15, location information 16, connectors 17, energy 18, sector energy 19.
  • Another implementation may relate to a mobile member which is a robotic computer peripheral of the “mobile terminal” type operating on a desk and intended for entertaining and / or assisting the user of the computer.
  • Another implementation may relate to a mobile member which is a robotic system performing useful tasks, for example domestic tasks, such as surface treatment, surveillance, telepresence, entertainment, manipulations, or industrial or military applications.
  • useful tasks for example domestic tasks, such as surface treatment, surveillance, telepresence, entertainment, manipulations, or industrial or military applications.
  • the charging base emits an infrared cone from a diode in a pulsed manner. This cone is directed in front of the base, in the axis of the opening allowing the connection of the two elements at the level of the pointing system.
  • the infrared cone is for example of an opening of the order of +/- 45 °.
  • the mobile pointing system has two infrared receivers (phototransistors) placed on either side of the front.
  • FIG. 1 A schematic diagram is found in Fig4.
  • the numerical references carried correspond to the following elements: charging base 20, infrared beam 21, pointing system 22, first infrared receiver 100, second infrared receiver 200.
  • the curve shown in Figure 5 describes the response of a sensor as a function of the distance from the infrared source. This response can be translated into intensity depending on the background noise of the environment. However, this measure does not allow you to orient yourself towards the charging base.
  • the digital references carried correspond to the following elements: infrared intensity 23, distance 24, reception of a sensor as a function of distance 25.
  • the two curves shown in FIG. 6 show that it is interesting to search for the minimum of the difference of the sensors in order to find the direction in which to direct the mobile device. This quantity is freed from the surrounding level by the fact that the difference in measurement is used.
  • the numerical references carried correspond to the following elements: infrared intensity 26, alpha angle 27, reception of the first sensor as a function of the angle alpha 28, reception of the second sensor as a function of the angle alpha 29, difference of the infrared intensities first sensor minus second sensor 30, minimum 90 ° 31, angle alpha 32.
  • infrared intensity 26 reception of the first sensor as a function of the angle alpha 28
  • reception of the second sensor as a function of the angle alpha 29
  • difference of the infrared intensities first sensor minus second sensor 30 minimum 90 ° 31, angle alpha 32.
  • In order to limit the energy emitted by the infrared emitter it is possible to use discontinuous operation of the infrared source. We can decide for example that the charging base emits the 10m
  • the motorization of the pointing system must not be perceptible in the presence of the user. This may imply, for example, that the drive element is retracted when the drive is not active. In order to be able to move and orient yourself easily, a motorization composed of two motors in tank type configuration is recommended.
  • the recharging procedure can be conditioned by:
  • the computer can control the location reason and authorize or not the recharging of the pointing system.
  • the computer should in this case take into account the time elapsed since the last recharge, any preferences of the user, and in priority, if the user has left his workstation.
  • the pointing system will initiate its charging procedure if it has not been used for a fixed time and if the battery level becomes low.
  • the charging system is permanently connected to the electrical network and the autonomous pointing system is capable of coming to charge even when the computer is turned off. Since recharging can be carried out regularly, the autonomy of the system can be considerably reduced to a few days, lowering the cost of the accumulators and their charger, and reducing the mass to be moved.
  • an autonomous system such as a robot intended to distract and / or provide information to the user of a computer
  • a system according to the invention is equipped with a system according to the invention.
  • useful robotic tasks for example domestic tasks, such as surface treatment, surveillance, telepresence, entertainment, manipulations, or industrial or military applications, can be powered by a process according to the invention.

Abstract

The invention relates to a wireless system with automatic electric recharging. The inventive system consists of: a mobile element (1) containing a battery, e.g. a rechargeable battery; and a fixed charging cradle (2) comprising (i) charging terminals which are located in an opening in said cradle and which are designed to supply electrical power, and (ii) transmission means which are designed to transmit encoded locational signals containing information relating to the position of the fixed charging cradle (2). Moreover, the aforementioned mobile element (1) comprises sensors which are intended to capture the locational signals and a mechanism for coupling the mobile element (1) to the charging terminals of the fixed charging cradle (2).

Description

SYSTEME AUTONOME A RECHARGE ELECTRIQUE AUTOMATIQUE AUTONOMOUS SYSTEM WITH AUTOMATIC ELECTRIC RECHARGE
1 invention concerne un système autonome à recharge électrique automatique.1 invention relates to an autonomous system with automatic electric charging.
Le but de cette invention est de rendre plus conviviale l'utilisation d'un système autonome, notamment associé à un ordinateur, tel qu'un système de pointage, communément appelé « souris », tel qu'un robot, par exemple évoluant sur un bureau, et visant à fournir des informations et/ou à distraire l'utilisateur de l'ordinateur, ou effectuant des tâches robotiques utiles, par exemple domestiques comme un traitement de surface, une surveillance, une téléprésence, un divertissement, une manipulations, ou encore un robot mobile autonome effectuant une application industrielle ou militaire.The purpose of this invention is to make the use of an autonomous system more user-friendly, in particular associated with a computer, such as a pointing system, commonly called a "mouse", such as a robot, for example operating on a office, and aimed at providing information and / or distracting the user from the computer, or performing useful robotic tasks, for example domestic tasks such as surface treatment, surveillance, telepresence, entertainment, manipulation, or another autonomous mobile robot carrying out an industrial or military application.
Lorsqu'un système est autonome, il n'est relié à aucune source d' énergie et il doit donc subvenir à ses besoins en électricité sans assistance, par exemple en utilisant des piles.When a system is autonomous, it is not connected to any energy source and it must therefore meet its electricity needs without assistance, for example by using batteries.
Afin d' éviter de devoir changer les piles trop souvent, ces systèmes embarquent actuellement, de façon permanente, de l'énergie pour fonctionner sur une période de quatre à six mois.In order to avoid having to change the batteries too often, these systems currently ship energy permanently to operate over a period of four to six months.
Ceci se traduit par un encombrement et un poids plus importants que ceux des systèmes traditionnels munis d'un fil. De plus, il reste toujours nécessaire de changer les piles à un moment ou à un autre. Cette opération de changer les piles devient problématique lorsqu' on ne dispose pas de piles de rechange au moment où on souhaite utiliser son ordinateur. La présente invention résout les problèmes ci-dessus exposés. Elle concerne un système sans fil à recharge électrique automatique; ledit système comprenant : un organe mobile, comprenant une batterie, notamment du type batterie rechargeable, - un socle de recharge fixe, ledit socle de recharge fixe comprenant : des bornes de recharge situées dans une ouverture dudit socle de recharge fixe, destinées à fournir une alimentation électrique, - des moyens d'émission destinés à émettre des signaux de localisation, notamment dans une zone de forme conique d'une ouverture, par exemple de l'ordre de 45°, située dans l'axe de ladite ouverture dudit socle de recharge fixe. Lesdits signaux de localisation codés contiennent des informations relatives à la position dudit socle de recharge fixe; ledit organe mobile comprenant : des capteurs, notamment de type phototransistors, situés à l'avant et de part et d'autre dudit organe mobile, destinés à capter lesdits signaux de localisation, une motorisation, notamment deux moteurs en configuration de type char, destinée à permettre :This results in a larger footprint and weight than those of traditional systems with a wire. In addition, there is always a need to change the batteries at one time or another. This operation of changing the batteries becomes problematic when you do not have spare batteries when you want to use your computer. The present invention solves the above problems. It relates to a wireless system with automatic electric charging; said system comprising: a movable member, comprising a battery, in particular of the rechargeable battery type, - a fixed charging base, said fixed charging base comprising: charging stations located in an opening of said fixed charging base, intended to provide a power supply, - transmission means intended to transmit localization signals, in particular in a conical zone of an opening, for example of the order of 45 °, situated in the axis of said opening of said base fixed recharge. Said coded location signals contain information relating to the position of said fixed charging base; said movable member comprising: sensors, in particular of phototransistors type, located at the front and on either side of said movable member, intended to pick up said location signals, a motorization, in particular two motors in tank type configuration, intended to allow:
• un déplacement automatique autonome dudit organe mobile vers ledit socle de recharge fixe, « un accouplement dudit organe mobile auxdites bornes de recharge dudit socle de recharge fixe , notamment sous la forme d'un contact galvanique entre des bornes de ladite batterie et lesdites bornes de recharge dudit socle de recharge fixe, des moyens de commande destinés à commander ladite motorisation en fonction desdits signaux de localisation, de sorte que l'organe mobile localise le socle de recharge fixe et se déplace de façon autonome pour s'accoupler au socle de recharge fixe afin de recharger sa batterie.• an automatic automatic movement of said movable member towards said fixed charging base, "a coupling of said mobile member to said charging terminals of said fixed charging base, in particular in the form of galvanic contact between terminals of said battery and said terminals of recharging of said fixed charging base, control means intended to control said motorization as a function of said location signals, so that the movable member locates the fixed charging base and moves autonomously to couple to the fixed charging base in order to recharge its battery.
Il résulte de la combinaison des traits techniques qu'un organe conforme à l'invention localise le socle de recharge fixe et se déplace de façon autonome pour s'accoupler à ce socle de recharge fixe afin de recharger sa batterie. Ce nouveau système permet de disposer en permanence d'un système autonome. D'autre part, la recharge pouvant s'effectuer régulièrement, la quantité d'énergie embarquée peut être réduite, d'où un gain de place et de poids.It results from the combination of technical features that a member according to the invention locates the fixed charging base and moves independently to mate with this fixed charging base in order to recharge its battery. This new system provides a permanent autonomous system. On the other hand, since recharging can be carried out regularly, the amount of energy on board can be reduced, thereby saving space and weight.
Dans ce sens, on peut se rapprocher de l'ergonomie d'un système muni d'un fil sans la gêne du fil.In this sense, we can approach the ergonomics of a system with a wire without the discomfort of the wire.
Un avantage du système par recharge automatique selon l' invention, par rapport à un système de recharge connu, qui serait composé d'un sabot sur lequel l'utilisateur placerait son système autonome pour le recharger quand il ne l'utilise pas, est que, dans ce système automatisé, l'utilisateur n'a pas besoin d'avoir une discipline d'utilisation : il utilise le système quand il en a besoin, et chaque fois que l'utilisateur n'utilise plus ce système depuis un certain temps, le système se déplace pour aller sur le système de recharge. L'utilisateur ne rencontre jamais le désagrément de trouver son système autonome déchargé.An advantage of the automatic recharging system according to the invention, compared to a known recharging system, which would be composed of a shoe on which the user would place his autonomous system to recharge it when he is not using it, is that , in this automated system, the user does not need to have a discipline of use: he uses the system when he needs it, and each time that the user has not used this system for a certain time , the system moves to go to the charging system. The user never encounters the inconvenience of finding his autonomous system unloaded.
Ce dernier point est parfois un avantage marketing du potentiel produit.This last point is sometimes a marketing advantage of the product potential.
Dans une réalisation, ledit système est tel que lesdits moyens d'émission dudit socle de recharge fixe émettent lesdits signaux de localisation de manière discontinue, notamment 10ms toutes les secondes, de sorte que les moyens d'émission sont actifs 1% du temps et inactifs 99% du temps, de sorte que la quantité d' énergie émise par l'émetteur est ainsi limitée.In one embodiment, said system is such that said transmission means of said fixed charging base transmit said location signals discontinuously, in particular 10 ms every second, so that the transmission means are active 1% of the time and inactive 99% of the time, so that the amount of energy emitted by the transmitter is thus limited.
Selon une réalisation, ledit système est tel que ladite motorisation est constituée en tout ou partie par des éléments rétractables ; lesdits éléments rétractables étant actionnés automatiquement en position rétractée par lesdits moyens de commande au terme de chaque accouplement dudit organe mobile auxdites bornes de recharge dudit socle de recharge fixe, de sorte que les éléments constituant la motorisation n'entravent pas les déplacements de l'organe de pointage mobile lorsque ceux-ci sont commandés manuellement par l'utilisateur.According to one embodiment, said system is such that said motorization is constituted in whole or in part by retractable elements; said retractable elements being actuated automatically in the retracted position by said control means at the end of each coupling of said movable member to said recharging terminals of said fixed charging base, so that the elements constituting the motorization do not impede movement of the member pointing device when these are manually controlled by the user.
Dans une réalisation, ledit organe mobile comprend des capteurs destinés à mesurer les déplacements dudit organe mobile commandés manuellement par ledit utilisateur ; lesdits moyens de commande dudit organe mobile comportant en outre un microcontrôleur, associé auxdits capteurs, et destiné à activer ladite motorisation en fonction :In one embodiment, said movable member comprises sensors intended to measure the displacements of said movable member controlled manually by said user; said control means of said movable member further comprising a microcontroller, associated with said sensors, and intended to activate said motorization according to:
• desdites mesures de déplacement dudit organe mobile effectuées par ledit capteur, et/ou • de paramètres prédéterminés, notamment en fonction d'une durée déterminée ou d'un niveau de charge prédéfini de ladite batterie, de sorte que la motorisation est activée quand l'utilisateur cesse d'utiliser l'organe mobile au-delà d'une certaine durée et/ou lorsque le niveau de charge de la batterie de l'organe mobile franchit un seuil déterminé.• said displacement measurements of said movable member made by said sensor, and / or • predetermined parameters, in particular as a function of a determined duration or of a predefined charge level of said battery, so that the motorization is activated when the the user ceases to use the movable member beyond a certain duration and / or when the charge level of the battery of the movable member crosses a determined threshold.
Selon une réalisation, ledit système est tel que ledit socle de recharge fixe est en outre connecté à une alimentation électrique, notamment de type secteur, indépendante dudit équipement informatique, de sorte que ledit organe mobile peut se déplacer de façon autonome pour s'accoupler au socle de recharge fixe afin de recharger sa batterie alors même que l'équipement informatique est éteint. Dans une réalisation, les signaux de localisation sont émis dans le domaine infrarouge.According to one embodiment, said system is such that said fixed charging base is also connected to a power supply, in particular of the sector type, independent of said computer equipment, so that said mobile member can move autonomously to couple to the fixed charging base in order to recharge its battery even when the IT equipment is switched off. In one embodiment, the location signals are transmitted in the infrared domain.
Dans une réalisation, l'organe mobile est un organe de pointage, communément dénommé « souris ». Dans une autre réalisation, l'organe mobile est un périphérique d' ordinateur robotique de type « terminal mobile » évoluant sur un bureau et destiné à divertir et/ou assister l'utilisateur de l'ordinateur.In one embodiment, the movable member is a pointing member, commonly known as a "mouse". In another embodiment, the mobile member is a robotic computer peripheral of the “mobile terminal” type operating on a desk and intended to entertain and / or assist the user of the computer.
Dans une réalisation, l'organe mobile est un système robotique effectuant des tâches utiles, par exemple domestiques, telles qu'un traitement de surface, une surveillance, de la téléprésence, des divertissements, des manipulations, ou alors des applications industrielles ou militaires.In one embodiment, the mobile member is a robotic system performing useful tasks, for example domestic tasks, such as surface treatment, surveillance, telepresence, entertainment, manipulation, or industrial or military applications.
La présente invention concerne aussi un procédé mettant en œuvre un procédé de recharge électrique automatique sans fil mettant en ouvre un système conforme à l'une des réalisations précédentes .The present invention also relates to a method implementing an automatic wireless electric charging method implementing a system according to one of the preceding embodiments.
D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront avec la description de modes de réalisation effectuée ci-dessous, à titre illustratif et non limitatif, en faisant référence aux figures ci-jointes.Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear with the description of embodiments carried out below, by way of illustration and not limitation, with reference to the attached figures.
•La description de l'invention ci-dessous est relative, dans un premier exemple, à une souris sans fil.• The description of the invention below relates, in a first example, to a wireless mouse.
Le système est composé d'un organe de pointage mobile 1 et d'un socle de recharge fixe 2. L'organe de pointage mobile 1 est du type souris pour ordinateur, dont la fonction principale est de mesurer le déplacement du boîtier par rapport au sol et l'action d'autre capteurs disposés sur ce boîtier. Cet organe 1 transmet ces mesures par ondes radio ou par rayonnement infrarouge à l'ordinateur auquel il est utile.The system consists of a mobile pointing device 1 and a fixed charging base 2. The mobile pointing device 1 is of the computer mouse type, the main function of which is to measure the displacement of the housing relative to the ground and the action of other sensors arranged on this box. This member 1 transmits these measurements by radio waves or by infrared radiation to the computer to which it is useful.
La nouveauté du système réside dans le fait qu' il est capable de se déplacer de façon autonome et de se localiser par rapport à son socle de recharge 2. Le socle de recharge 2 a pour fonction principale de fournir une tension électrique permettant la recharge de l'organe de pointage 1. Ce socle 1 est fixe et émet autour de lui un champ infrarouge codé permettant au système 1 de le repérer afin de s'y diriger.The novelty of the system lies in the fact that it is able to move independently and locate itself relative to its charging base 2. The main function of charging base 2 is to provide an electrical voltage allowing the recharging of the pointing member 1. This base 1 is fixed and emits around it a coded infrared field allowing system 1 to locate it in order to direct itself there.
Description de l'usage du système Cette technologie permettrait d' élaborer par exemple le produit suivant . Le . produit est composé d' un transformateur secteur vers basse tension, d'un socle de recharge relié par un connecteur au transformateur ainsi qu' à l' ordinateur par un accès d'entrée/sortie, comme par exemple un connecteur USB (Universal Sériai Bus) et d'une souris sans fil.Description of the use of the system This technology would make it possible, for example, to develop the following product. The . product is composed of a mains transformer to low voltage, a charging base connected by a connector to the transformer as well as to the computer by an input / output access, such as a USB connector (Universal Sériai Bus ) and a wireless mouse.
En mode de fonctionnement normal, la souris traduit les actions de l'utilisateur (déplacement, pression des boutons, actions de molettes ou autre) et les transmet via des ondes radio ou infrarouge au socle de recharge et/ou directement à 1' ordinateur.In normal operating mode, the mouse translates the user's actions (moving, pressing buttons, wheel actions or other) and transmits them via radio or infrared waves to the charging base and / or directly to the computer.
Dans le cas où le socle de recharge reçoit ces informations, il les transmet à l'ordinateur via un port d'entrée/sortie (port PS2, port série, bus USB ou transmission sans-fil). Il s'agit jusque-là du fonctionnement classique des souris sans fil. Lorsque que l'utilisateur cesse d'agir sur la souris et après un délai prédéfini, la souris se déplace de façon autonome afin de regagner le socle de recharge. Elle y reste tant que l'utilisateur ne vient pas l'y rechercher et y recharger électriquement ses batteries. Un système de contrôle de la charge permet d'arrêter cette dernière lorsque les batteries sont chargées .If the charging base receives this information, it transmits it to the computer via an input / output port (PS2 port, serial port, USB bus or wireless transmission). So far, this is the classic way wireless mice work. When the user stops acting on the mouse and after a predefined delay, the mouse moves autonomously in order to regain the charging base. It stays there as long as the user does not come to look for it and electrically recharge its batteries. A charge control system allows the charge to be stopped when the batteries are charged.
Description fonctionnelleFunctional description
Description de l'organe de pointage. L'organe de pointage ou souris doit contenir les fonctionnalités suivantes : batterie, électronique de régulation, connectique compatible avec le socle de recharge, capteurs (mouvement, interrupteur, molette, ...) , canal de transmission (radio / infrarouge) vers l'ordinateur (via ou non le socle de recharge), motorisation, contrôle moteur, mécanique d' entraînement (*) , système de localisation du socle de recharge (*) , système de contrôle (microcontrôleur, ASIC.) . (*) Eléments supplémentaires dus à la technologie.Description of the pointing device. The pointing device or mouse must contain the following functionalities: battery, control electronics, connection compatible with the charging base, sensors (movement, switch, wheel, ...), transmission channel (radio / infrared) to the '' computer (whether or not via the charging base), motorization, motor control, drive mechanics (*), charging base location system (*), control system (microcontroller, ASIC.). (*) Additional elements due to technology.
Un schéma de fonctionnement de l'organe de pointage se trouve sur Fig2. Les références numériques portées correspondent aux éléments suivants : connectique 3, batterie 4, régulation 5, capteurs 6, processeur 7, localisation 8, transmission 9, mécanique 10, moteurs 11, énergie 12, jauge 13, commande 14.A diagram of operation of the pointing device is found in Fig2. The digital references carried correspond to the following elements: connectors 3, battery 4, regulation 5, sensors 6, processor 7, location 8, transmission 9, mechanics 10, motors 11, energy 12, gauge 13, control 14.
Motorisation, contrôle moteur, mécanique d'entraînementMotorization, motor control, drive mechanics
A la différence des systèmes de pointage traditionnels, celui-ci est motorisé afin de pouvoir regagner le socle de recharge. La motorisation n'est pas active lors de l'usage du pointeur et ne doit pas contrarier le mouvement de l'utilisateur. Le contrôle moteur peut éventuellement être fait au sein du microcontrôleur avec les informations issues du capteur de mouvement inhérent à tout système de pointage. Système de localisation du socle de rechargeUnlike traditional pointing systems, this one is motorized in order to be able to return to the charging base. The motorization is not active when using the pointer and must not impede the movement of the user. Motor control can optionally be done within the microcontroller with information from the motion sensor inherent in any pointing system. Charging base location system
Le système de localisation permet à l' organe de pointage de localiser le socle de recharge afin que celui-ci puisse se guider et atteindre ce dernier. On partira de l'hypothèse que l'espace entre les deux éléments est libre afin de permettre une trajectoire directe.The location system allows the pointing device to locate the charging base so that it can guide itself and reach it. We will assume that the space between the two elements is free to allow a direct trajectory.
Toutefois, un algorithme d'évitement et de contournement d' obstacle associé à une technique de recherche de parcours libre pourrait très bien être utilisé si l'espace entre les deux éléments est encombré. Le système de localisation placé sur le socle de recharge émet de façon permanente (ou cyclique) un message dans la zone où l'organe de pointage évolue. Ce message permet à ce dernier de pouvoir converger quand il le décide vers le système de recharge. Description du socle de recharge.However, an obstacle avoidance and bypass algorithm associated with a free path search technique could very well be used if the space between the two elements is congested. The location system placed on the charging base permanently (or cyclically) sends a message in the area where the pointing device is moving. This message allows the latter to be able to converge when it decides on the charging system. Description of the charging base.
Le socle de recharge doit contenir les fonctionnalités suivantes : convertisseur de tension Secteur vers basse tension avec une connectique compatible avec l'organe de pointage mobile,The charging base must contain the following functions: mains to low voltage voltage converter with connectors compatible with the mobile pointing device,
- ' système informant de la localisation du socle de recharge (*) , un éventuel système de contrôle (microcontrôleur, ASIC.) , un éventuel canal de réception (radio / infrarouge) retransmis à l'ordinateur (USB/PS2...) (*) .- ' system informing of the location of the charging base (*), a possible control system (microcontroller, ASIC.), a possible reception channel (radio / infrared) retransmitted to the computer (USB / PS2 ...) (*).
(*) Eléments supplémentaires dus à la technologie. Un schéma de fonctionnement du socle de recharge se trouve sur Fig3. Les références numériques portées correspondent aux éléments suivants : transformateur 15, information de localisation 16, connectique 17, énergie 18, énergie secteur 19.(*) Additional elements due to technology. An operating diagram of the charging base is shown in Fig3. The digital references carried correspond to the following elements: transformer 15, location information 16, connectors 17, energy 18, sector energy 19.
Mise en oeuvre Une grande partie du système repose sur les systèmes existants de pointage (souris, à fils, sans fil, à bille, optique etc..) sur lesquels il n' est pas besoin de revenir car beaucoup d' applications en font exemple. Ce système apportant de la nouveauté sur plusieurs points voici comment une mise en œuvre à titre d'exemple peut être réalisée sur le système de localisation, la motorisation, la recharge.Implementation A large part of the system relies on existing pointing systems (mouse, wire, wireless, ballpoint, optical, etc.) which need not be revisited because many applications are examples of this. . This system bringing novelty on several points here is how an example implementation can be achieved on the location system, the motorization, the recharging.
Une autre mise en œuvre peut concerner un organe mobile qui soit un périphérique robotique d'ordinateur de type « terminal mobile » évoluant sur un bureau et destiné à divertir et/ou assister l'utilisateur de l'ordinateur.Another implementation may relate to a mobile member which is a robotic computer peripheral of the “mobile terminal” type operating on a desk and intended for entertaining and / or assisting the user of the computer.
Un autre mise en œuvre peut concerner un organe mobile qui soit un système robotique effectuant des tâches utiles, par exemple domestiques, telles qu'un traitement de surface, une surveillance, de la téléprésence, des divertissements, des manipulations, ou alors des applications industrielles ou militaires .Another implementation may relate to a mobile member which is a robotic system performing useful tasks, for example domestic tasks, such as surface treatment, surveillance, telepresence, entertainment, manipulations, or industrial or military applications.
Système de localisationLocation system
Le socle de recharge émet un cône infrarouge issue d'une diode de manière puisée. Ce cône est dirigé devant le socle, dans l'axe de l'ouverture permettant la connexion des deux éléments au niveau du système de pointage. Le cône infrarouge est par exemple d'une ouverture de l'ordre de +/- 45°. Le système de pointage mobile dispose de deux récepteurs infrarouges (phototransistors) placés de part et d'autre de l' avant.The charging base emits an infrared cone from a diode in a pulsed manner. This cone is directed in front of the base, in the axis of the opening allowing the connection of the two elements at the level of the pointing system. The infrared cone is for example of an opening of the order of +/- 45 °. The mobile pointing system has two infrared receivers (phototransistors) placed on either side of the front.
De ce fait, la différence reçue (en infrarouge) de ces deux récepteurs est minimisée lorsque le système de pointage fait face à la source infrarouge. Un schéma de principe se trouve sur Fig4. Les références numériques portées correspondent aux éléments suivants : socle de recharge 20, faisceau infrarouge 21, système de pointage 22, premier récepteur infrarouge 100, deuxième récepteur infrarouge 200.As a result, the difference received (in infrared) from these two receivers is minimized when the pointing system faces the infrared source. A schematic diagram is found in Fig4. The numerical references carried correspond to the following elements: charging base 20, infrared beam 21, pointing system 22, first infrared receiver 100, second infrared receiver 200.
La courbe représentée sur la figure 5 décrit la réponse d'un capteur en fonction de la distance par rapport à la source infrarouge. Cette réponse peut se trouver translatée en intensité selon le bruit de fond de l'environnement. Cependant cette mesure ne permet pas de s'orienter vers le socle de recharge. Les références numériques portées correspondent aux éléments suivants : intensité infrarouge 23, distance 24, réception d'un capteur en fonction de la distance 25.The curve shown in Figure 5 describes the response of a sensor as a function of the distance from the infrared source. This response can be translated into intensity depending on the background noise of the environment. However, this measure does not allow you to orient yourself towards the charging base. The digital references carried correspond to the following elements: infrared intensity 23, distance 24, reception of a sensor as a function of distance 25.
Les deux courbes représentées sur la figure 6 montrent qu'il est intéressant de rechercher le minimum de la différence des capteurs afin de trouver la direction dans laquelle diriger le dispositif mobile. Cette grandeur se trouve affranchie du niveau environnant par le fait que l'on utilise la différence de mesure. Les références numériques portées correspondent aux éléments suivants : intensité infrarouge 26, angle alpha 27, réception du premier capteur en fonction de l'angle alpha 28, réception du deuxième capteur en fonction de l'angle alpha 29, différence des intensités infrarouge premier capteur moins deuxième capteur 30, minimum 90° 31, angle alpha 32. Afin de limiter l'énergie émise par l'émetteur infrarouge il est possible d'utiliser un fonctionnement discontinu de la source infrarouge. On peut décider par exemple que le socle de recharge émet le signal de localisation 10ms toutes les secondes (soit 99% du temps éteint et 1% actif) . Ce motif, ou tout autre signature numérique, peut être une condition supplémentaire à la reconnaissance du faisceau émis.The two curves shown in FIG. 6 show that it is interesting to search for the minimum of the difference of the sensors in order to find the direction in which to direct the mobile device. This quantity is freed from the surrounding level by the fact that the difference in measurement is used. The numerical references carried correspond to the following elements: infrared intensity 26, alpha angle 27, reception of the first sensor as a function of the angle alpha 28, reception of the second sensor as a function of the angle alpha 29, difference of the infrared intensities first sensor minus second sensor 30, minimum 90 ° 31, angle alpha 32. In order to limit the energy emitted by the infrared emitter it is possible to use discontinuous operation of the infrared source. We can decide for example that the charging base emits the 10ms localization signal every second (99% of the time off and 1% active). This pattern, or any other digital signature, can be an additional condition for recognizing the beam emitted.
La motorisationThe motorization
Quelques remarques concernant la motorisation. La motorisation du système de pointage ne doit pas être perceptible en présence de l'utilisateur. Ceci peut impliquer par exemple que l'élément de motorisation soit rétracté lorsque la motorisation n'est pas active. Afin de pouvoir se déplacer et s'orienter aisément, une motorisation composée de deux moteurs en configuration de type char est préconisée.Some remarks concerning the motorization. The motorization of the pointing system must not be perceptible in the presence of the user. This may imply, for example, that the drive element is retracted when the drive is not active. In order to be able to move and orient yourself easily, a motorization composed of two motors in tank type configuration is recommended.
D'autre part, comme il n'est pas nécessaire d'avoir un mouvement rapide des moteurs de faible puissance et une forte réduction son conseillés. Ceci ayant pour conséquence une réduction de la taille des moteurs et de leur coût.On the other hand, as it is not necessary to have a rapid movement of the low power motors and a strong reduction its advisable. This has the consequence of reducing the size of the motors and their cost.
La rechargeRecharge
Quelques remarques concernant la recharge : la procédure de recharge peut être conditionnée par :Some remarks concerning recharging: the recharging procedure can be conditioned by:
(1) Si le socle de recharge est relié à l'ordinateur car il retransmet les informations provenant du pointeur. L' ordinateur peut commander le motif de localisation et autoriser ou non la recharge du système de pointage. L' ordinateur devrait dans ce cas prendre en compte le temps écoulé depuis la dernière recharge, des éventuelles préférences de l'utilisateur, et en priorité, si l'utilisateur a quitté son poste de travail.(1) If the charging base is connected to the computer because it transmits information from the pointer. The computer can control the location reason and authorize or not the recharging of the pointing system. The computer should in this case take into account the time elapsed since the last recharge, any preferences of the user, and in priority, if the user has left his workstation.
(2) Si le socle de recharge est autonome, le système de pointage déclenchera sa procédure de recharge s'il n'est pas sollicité depuis un temps fixe et si le niveau des batteries devient faible.(2) If the charging base is autonomous, the pointing system will initiate its charging procedure if it has not been used for a fixed time and if the battery level becomes low.
D'un point de vue mécanique, l'accès à la recharge se fera dans l'axe ou l'émetteur infrarouge émet. La connexion électrique entre les deux éléments doit se faire suffisamment facilement pour que les moteurs soient capable de réaliser la connexion.From a mechanical point of view, access to charging will be in the axis where the infrared emitter emits. The electrical connection between the two elements must be sufficiently easy for the motors to be able to make the connection.
Dans une réalisation, le système de recharge est connecté au réseau électrique en permanence et le système de pointage autonome est capable de venir se recharger même lorsque l'ordinateur est éteint. La recharge pouvant s'effectuer régulièrement, l'autonomie du système peut être considérablement réduite à quelques jours, baissant le coût des accumulateurs, de leur chargeur, et réduisant la masse à déplacer.In one embodiment, the charging system is permanently connected to the electrical network and the autonomous pointing system is capable of coming to charge even when the computer is turned off. Since recharging can be carried out regularly, the autonomy of the system can be considerably reduced to a few days, lowering the cost of the accumulators and their charger, and reducing the mass to be moved.
Si, à l'usage, la qualité des systèmes, type souris sans-fil, précédents avait été baissée pour minimiser la consommation (mise en veille systématique induisant un retard de la transmission des informations issues des capteurs) , il est possible dans ce système d' être moins économe pour une meilleure ergonomie d'utilisation. D'autres variantes de l'invention peuvent aisément être mises en œuvre. Par exemple, il est envisagé qu'un système autonome, tel qu'un robot visant à distraire et/ou à fournir des informations à l'utilisateur d'un ordinateur soit équipé d'un système conforme à l'invention. II est également envisagé de mettre en œuvre l'invention à l'égard d'un système autonome mobile effectuant des tâches robotiques utiles, par exemple domestiques, telles qu'un traitement de surface, une surveillance, de la téléprésence, des divertissements, des manipulations, ou encore des applications industrielles ou militaires, puisse être alimenté selon un procédé conforme à l'invention. If, in use, the quality of previous systems, such as wireless mice, had been lowered to minimize consumption (systematic standby inducing a delay in the transmission of information from sensors), it is possible in this system to be less economical for better ergonomics of use. Other variants of the invention can easily be implemented. For example, it is envisaged that an autonomous system, such as a robot intended to distract and / or provide information to the user of a computer, is equipped with a system according to the invention. It is also envisaged to implement the invention with respect to a mobile autonomous system performing useful robotic tasks, for example domestic tasks, such as surface treatment, surveillance, telepresence, entertainment, manipulations, or industrial or military applications, can be powered by a process according to the invention.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1. Système sans fil à recharge électrique automatique; ledit système comprenant : un organe mobile (1) , comprenant une batterie, notamment du type batterie rechargeable, - un socle de recharge fixe (2) , ledit socle de recharge fixe (2) comprenant :1. Wireless system with automatic electric charging; said system comprising: a movable member (1), comprising a battery, in particular of the rechargeable battery type, - a fixed charging base (2), said fixed charging base (2) comprising:
- des bornes de recharge situées dans une ouverture dudit socle de recharge fixe (2) , destinées à fournir une alimentation électrique, - des moyens d'émission destinés à émettre des signaux de localisation, notamment dans une zone de forme conique d'une ouverture, par exemple de l'ordre de 45°, située dans l'axe de ladite ouverture dudit socle de recharge fixe (2) ; lesdits signaux de localisation codés contenant des informations relatives à la position dudit socle de recharge fixe (2) ; ledit organe mobile (1) comprenant : des capteurs, notamment de type phototransistors, situés à l'avant et de part et d'autre dudit organe mobile (1), destinés à capter lesdits signaux de localisation,- charging stations located in an opening of said fixed charging base (2), intended to provide an electrical supply, - transmission means intended to emit location signals, in particular in a conical zone of an opening , for example of the order of 45 °, located in the axis of said opening of said fixed charging base (2); said coded location signals containing information relating to the position of said fixed charging base (2); said movable member (1) comprising: sensors, in particular of the phototransistors type, located at the front and on either side of said movable member (1), intended to pick up said location signals,
- une motorisation, notamment deux moteurs en configuration de type char, destinée à permettre :- a motorization, in particular two motors in tank type configuration, intended to allow:
• un déplacement automatique autonome dudit organe mobile (1) vers ledit socle de recharge fixe (2), • un accouplement dudit organe mobile (1) auxdites bornes de recharge dudit socle de recharge fixe (2) , notamment sous la forme d'un contact galvanique entre des bornes de ladite batterie et lesdites bornes de recharge dudit socle de recharge fixe (2), - des moyens de commande destinés à commander ladite motorisation en fonction desdits signaux de localisation, de sorte que l'organe mobile localise le socle de recharge fixe et se déplace de façon autonome pour s'accoupler au socle de recharge fixe afin de recharger sa batterie. • an autonomous automatic movement of said mobile member (1) towards said fixed charging base (2), • a coupling of said mobile member (1) to said charging stations of said fixed charging base (2), in particular in the form of a galvanic contact between terminals of said battery and said charging terminals of said fixed charging base (2), - control means intended to control said motorization as a function of said location signals, so that the movable member locates the base of fixed charging and moves independently to mate with the fixed charging base to recharge its battery.
2. Système selon la revendication 1 ; ledit système étant tel que lesdits moyens d'émission dudit socle de recharge fixe (2) émettent lesdits signaux de localisation de manière discontinue, notamment 10ms toutes les secondes, de sorte que les moyens d' émission sont actifs 1% du temps et inactifs 99% du temps, de sorte que la quantité d' énergie émise par l'émetteur est ainsi limitée.2. System according to claim 1; said system being such that said transmission means of said fixed charging base (2) transmit said location signals discontinuously, in particular 10 ms every second, so that the transmission means are active 1% of the time and inactive 99 % of the time, so that the amount of energy emitted by the transmitter is thus limited.
3. Système selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 ou 2 ; ledit système étant tel que ladite motorisation est constituée en tout ou partie par des éléments rétractables ; lesdits éléments rétractables étant actionnés automatiquement en position rétractée par lesdits moyens de commande au terme de chaque accouplement dudit organe mobile (1) auxdites bornes de recharge dudit socle de recharge fixe (2) , de sorte que les éléments constituant la motorisation n'entravent pas les déplacements de l'organe de pointage mobile lorsque ceux-ci sont commandés manuellement par l'utilisateur.3. System according to any one of claims 1 or 2; said system being such that said motorization is constituted in whole or in part by retractable elements; said retractable elements being actuated automatically in the retracted position by said control means at the end of each coupling of said movable member (1) to said charging stations of said fixed charging base (2), so that the elements constituting the motorization do not impede the movements of the movable pointing device when these are manually controlled by the user.
4. Système selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3 ; ledit organe mobile (1) comprenant des capteurs destinés à mesurer les déplacements dudit organe mobile (1) commandés manuellement par ledit utilisateur ; lesdits moyens de commande dudit organe mobile (1) comportant en outre un microcontrôleur, associé auxdits capteurs, et destiné à activer ladite motorisation en fonction :4. System according to any one of claims 1 to 3; said mobile member (1) comprising sensors intended to measure the displacements of said mobile member (1) controlled manually by said user; said control means of said mobile member (1) further comprising a microcontroller, associated with said sensors, and intended to activate said motorization according to:
• desdites mesures de déplacement dudit organe mobile (1) effectuées par ledit capteur, et/ou• said displacement measurements of said movable member (1) carried out by said sensor, and / or
• de paramètres prédéterminés, notamment en fonction d' une durée déterminée ou d' un niveau de charge prédéfini de ladite batterie, de sorte que la motorisation est activée quand l'utilisateur cesse d'utiliser l'organe mobile au-delà d'une certaine durée et/ou lorsque le niveau de charge de la batterie de l'organe mobile franchit un seuil déterminé. • predetermined parameters, in particular as a function of a determined duration or of a predefined charge level of said battery, so that the motorization is activated when the user ceases to use the movable member beyond a certain duration and / or when the level of charge of the battery of the movable member exceeds a determined threshold.
5. Système selon l'une quelconque des revendications5. System according to any one of the claims
1 à 4 ; ledit système étant tel que ledit socle de recharge fixe1 to 4; said system being such that said fixed charging base
(2) est en outre connecté à une alimentation électrique, notamment de type secteur, indépendante dudit équipement informatique, de sorte que ledit organe mobile peut se déplacer de façon autonome pour s'accoupler au socle de recharge fixe afin de recharger sa batterie alors même que l'équipement informatique est éteint. (2) is also connected to a power supply, in particular of the mains type, independent of said computer equipment, so that said mobile member can move autonomously to mate with the fixed charging base in order to recharge its battery even then that the computer equipment is turned off.
6. Système selon l'une des revendications précédentes caractérisé en ce que les signaux de localisation sont émis dans le domaine infrarouge.6. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the location signals are emitted in the infrared range.
7. Système selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes caractérisé en ce que l' organe mobile est un organe de pointage, communément dénommé « souris ».7. System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mobile member is a pointing member, commonly known as a "mouse".
8. Système selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes caractérisé en ce que l'organe mobile est un robot destiné à divertir et/ou assister l'utilisateur de l'ordinateur.8. System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mobile member is a robot intended to entertain and / or assist the user of the computer.
9. Système selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes caractérisé en ce que l'organe mobile est un robot destiné à effectuer des tâches robotiques utiles, par exemple domestiques, telles qu'un traitement de surface, une surveillance, de la téléprésence, des divertissements, des manipulations, ou encore des applications industrielles ou militaires.9. System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the movable member is a robot intended to perform useful robotic tasks, for example domestic tasks, such as surface treatment, monitoring, telepresence, entertainment, manipulation, or industrial or military applications.
10. Procédé de recharge électrique automatique sans fil mettant en ouvre un système conforme à l'une des revendications précédentes . 10. A method of automatic wireless electric charging implementing a system according to one of the preceding claims.
EP04742694A 2003-05-09 2004-05-10 Autonomous system with automatic electric recharging Withdrawn EP1673688A2 (en)

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FR0305632A FR2854966B1 (en) 2003-05-09 2003-05-09 AUTOMATIC ELECTRIC RECHARGEABLE WIRELESS POINTING SYSTEM FOR COMPUTER
PCT/FR2004/001138 WO2004102368A2 (en) 2003-05-09 2004-05-10 Autonomous system with automatic electric recharging

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WO2004102368A3 (en) 2005-09-01
FR2854966B1 (en) 2005-12-30
FR2854966A1 (en) 2004-11-19
KR20060009006A (en) 2006-01-27
AU2004239446A1 (en) 2004-11-25
WO2004102368A2 (en) 2004-11-25
CN1784648A (en) 2006-06-07
CA2524801A1 (en) 2004-11-25

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