WO2023275842A1

WO2023275842A1 - Robotic apparatus for performing maintenance operations on an electronic component

Info

Publication number: WO2023275842A1
Application number: PCT/IB2022/056148
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alessandro BONO
Original assignee: Fastweb S.P.A.
Priority date: 2021-07-02
Filing date: 2022-07-01
Publication date: 2023-01-05
Also published as: IT202100017564A1

Abstract

A robotic apparatus (1) is disclosed for performing maintenance operations on an electronic component, including: a movable base (23) to enable the robotic apparatus (1) to travel on a floor (P) of a working room to reach the electronic component, at least one upright (21) extending substantially vertically from the movable base, and at least one movable support unit (10; 50) for supporting a respective tool device for performing a predefined maintenance operation on the electronic component and, to bring the tool device to a desired height, in which each movable support unit comprises respective driving means (12) mounted on the movable support unit to move the movable support unit (10; 50) along the upright and a respective coupling device (11) slidable along the upright for coupling the movable support unit with the upright, the coupling device comprising a support member (11e) having an open structure (11a, 11b, 11c) to surround at least partially a transverse portion (21e) of the upright, and a coupling portion (1 la) to engage with, and disengage from, the open structure, the coupling portion being capable of taking on a closed configuration (G) and an open configuration (H) to enable mounting and/or demounting of the movable support unit on and/or form the upright.

Description

Robotic apparatus for performing maintenance operations on an electronic component

Technical background

[0001] The invention relates to a robotic apparatus for performing maintenance operations on an electronic component to be maintained in a working room, such as a site designed for processing data, like for example a data centre, a processing centre, a server room, a service room for telecommunication, in particular a point of presence (PoP, i.e. a point of access to a network), etc.

[0002] Specifically but not exclusively, the apparatus of the present invention can perform maintenance operations on supports for electronic components, such as cabinets and/or racks situated in the working room and/or directly on an electronic component to be maintained. [0003] Such supports for electronic components extend in height, i.e. vertically, and comprise a plurality of housings arranged alongside one another, on which the electronic components, like memory cards, calculation cards, connection cards, etc are mounted removably.

[0004] Maintenance operations on supports for electronic components can comprise by way of example fitting an electronic component, dismantling an electronic component, connecting to the electronic component, diagnosis of the electronic component, etc.

Background of the invention

[0005] United States patent application number US 2020/0081439 A1 describes a robot having a base frame with wheels. The robot has a motor, a battery and a control unit positioned in the base frame. The robot comprises three guides, a gantry guide X, a gantry guide Y and a gantry guide Z. The robot comprises a gantry head and an articulated rod. [0006] United States patent number US 7725212 B2 describes a robotic vehicle having a structure fixed in a vertical orientation above a base, the structure comprises a channel arranged vertically in the structure to support a robotic arm mechanism. The arm mechanism can be controlled to move up, down, along and inside the channel. The arm mechanism can be driven by servomotors controlled by a central control unit that is positioned in the base to direct the movements of the arm mechanism.

[0007] Prior art robotic apparatuses have a power source on board, like a battery, to supply servomotors to drive the wheels and tools of the robotic apparatus of the robot.

[0008] In order to perform maintenance operations, the robotic apparatus has to be equipped with different tools, each of which is suitable for a specific maintenance operation. Equipping the robotic apparatus with different tools increases the power installed on the robotic apparatus and the weight of the robotic apparatus, this resulting in higher energy consumption and/or low autonomy of the robotic apparatus.

[0009] One drawback of known robotic apparatuses is that such apparatuses are hardly flexible for performing different maintenance operations.

[0010] One drawback of known robotic apparatuses is that such apparatuses have low autonomy.

[0011] One drawback of known robotic apparatuses is the high energy consumption.

[0012] One drawback of prior art apparatuses is that such apparatuses are difficult to equip with different tools.

Summary of the invention

[0013] One object of the invention is to improve known robotic apparatuses for performing maintenance operations on electronic components.

[0014] A further object is to provide a robotic apparatus that is able to solve one or more of the aforesaid limits and drawbacks of the prior art.

[0015] A further object is to provide an alternative robotic apparatus to those of the prior art. [0016] A further object is to provide a robotic apparatus that is able to adapt to diverse maintenance operations.

[0017] A further object is to provide a robotic apparatus with low energy consumption. [0018] A further object is to provide a robotic apparatus with greater autonomy that one of the prior art.

[0019] According to the invention, a robotic apparatus is provided for performing maintenance operations on an electronic component to be maintained in a working room, including: a movable base provided with wheel units drivable to enable the robotic apparatus to travel on a floor of the working room to reach the electronic component to be maintained, at least one upright extending substantially vertically from the movable base, where “vertically” is intended with respect to a vertical axis that is, in use, substantially orthogonal to the floor, and at least one movable support unit arranged for supporting a respective tool device which is suitable for performing a predefined maintenance operation on the electronic component, the at least one movable support unit being movable on the at least one upright to take the tool device to a desired height, in which each movable support unit comprises respective driving means mounted on the movable support unit and configured to move the movable support unit along the at least one upright. The at least one coupling device comprises a coupling portion movably connected to the open structure to engage with, and disengage from, the open structure, the coupling portion being capable of taking on a closed configuration, in which the coupling portion is closer to the open structure so that the coupling device surrounds the transverse portion and the coupling portion is further from the open structure so as to enable mounting and/or demounting of the movable support unit on and/or from said at least one upright.

[0020] Owing to the invention, it is possible to make available a robotic apparatus that is highly flexible and adaptable to the type of maintenance operation to be performed.

[0021] Owing to the invention, it is possible to make available a robotic apparatus that can be equipped with one or more tools defined on the basis of the maintenance operations to be performed.

[0022] Owing to the invention, it is possible to ensure interchangeability of the tools on the basis of the type of maintenance operation to be performed.

[0023] Owing to the invention, it is possible to provide a robotic apparatus that is able to move movable support units independently of one another.

[0024] Owing to the invention, it is possible to make available a compact apparatus.

[0025] Owing to the invention, it is possible to optimize engineering of a robotic apparatus and increase efficiency thereof in maintenance operations.

Short description of the drawings

[0026] The invention can be better understood and implemented with reference to the enclosed drawings that illustrate an embodiment thereof by way of non-limiting example, in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a robotic apparatus in which, in particular, a movable base provided with wheel units, movable support units according to a first embodiment and a movable support unit according to a second embodiment, in which each movable support unit is provided with one or more coupling devices in a closed configuration, some components are removed for greater clarity;

Figure 2 is a perspective view of the robotic apparatus of Figure 1 in which are shown, in particular, a frame of the robotic apparatus provided with uprights, and the movable support units according to a first embodiment and the movable support unit according to the second embodiment, in which each movable support unit is provided with one or more coupling devices in an open configuration;

Figure 2A is a perspective partial view of the movable base of the robotic apparatus of Figures 1 and 2, showing in particular the wheel units, motor control means, a power source, central control means and navigating means;

Figure 3 is a perspective view of a movable support unit according to the first embodiment, in which are shown, in particular, the coupling device in the closed configuration, driving means and a first transmission member;

Figure 4 is a plan view - taken from above with reference to the orientation of Figure 1 - which shows the movable support unit of Figure 3 in which the coupling device is in the closed configuration and the driving means is mounted on the movable support unit;

Figure 5 is a perspective view of the movable support unit according to the first embodiment, in which, in particular, the coupling device in the open configuration and the driving means are shown;

Figure 6 is a plan view - taken from above with reference to the orientation of Figure 1 - which shows the movable support unit of Figure 5 in which the coupling device is in the open configuration and driving means is mounted on the movable support unit;

Figure 7 is a raised side view of a part of the robotic apparatus of Figure 1 showing the movable support unit according to the first embodiment, an upright and a trace of a transverse plane;

Figure 7A is a cross section of the upright taken on the transverse plane of Figure 7, in which elongated power supply elements and transmission means are visible.

Figure 8 is a bottom partial section - with reference to the orientation of Figure 7 - on the transverse plane of Figure 7, showing, in particular, the coupling device in the closed configuration and a transverse portion of the upright, some components are removed for greater clarity;

Figure 9 is a bottom partial section - with reference to the orientation of Figure 7 - taken on the transverse plane of Figure 7, showing, in particular, the coupling device in the open configuration and a transverse portion of the upright, some components are removed for greater clarity;

Figure 9 A is a raised side view - taken from a first side - showing the first transmission member of Figure 3 in an engaged position in which the first transmission member engages a second transmission member, some components are removed for greater clarity;

Figure 9B is a raised side view - taken from a first side - showing the first transmission member of Figure 3 in a disengaged position in which the first transmission member is far from the second transmission member, some components are removed for greater clarity; Figure 9C is a raised side view - taken from a second side opposite the first side of Figures 9A and 9B - showing a support element;

Figure 10 is a perspective view showing a first movable support unit and a second movable support unit of the movable support units according to the first embodiment in a spaced apart configuration;

Figure 11 is a partial perspective view showing the first movable support unit and the second movable support unit of Figure 10 in the spaced configuration, some elements are sectioned for greater clarity;

Figure 12 is a partial perspective view showing the first movable support unit and the second movable support unit of Figure 10 in a near configuration, some elements are sectioned for greater clarity;

Figure 13 a perspective view of the movable support unit according to the second embodiment, showing a viewing device and an indicating device;

Figure 14 is a side view of the movable support unit of Figure 13, showing, in particular, coupling devices and driving means.

Detailed description

[0027] With reference to Figure 1 above, the numeric reference 1 indicates a robotic apparatus for performing maintenance operations on an electronic component to be maintained in a working room. The working room can be used to house one or more racks for electronic components, like cabinets (cabinet and/or rack), equipped with electronic components. Electronic components can comprise by way of non-exhaustive example: various electronic board, communication boards, network boards (LAN, WAN, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth), memory boards to store data (hard disks, solid state drives or SSDs), central processing units and/or graphics processing units (CPUs, GPUs), connecting interfaces between boards, communication cables, supply cables, supply devices, cooling devices, etc... [0028] The working room can comprise a data storage centre (data centre) and/or a server room and/or a data processing centre and/or a service room for telecommunication, as for instance a point of presence (POP, point of access to a network). The working room is provided with a substantially horizontal floor P.

[0029] A maintenance operation can include an interaction of the robotic apparatus with the electronic component to be maintained, for example an inspection of the electronic component, replacing and/or dismantling and/or mounting the electronic component in a support for electronic components, a supply or signal test of an electronic component, a connection between the robotic apparatus 1 and the electronic component to be maintained, etc.

[0030] The robotic apparatus 1 is configured to interact with the working room. The robotic apparatus 1 is configured, in particular, to move on the floor P of the working room and interact with the support for electronic components and/or directly with electronic components.

[0031] The robotic apparatus 1 can comprise a frame 20 with a vertical structure. The frame 20 can comprise a reticular structure provided with bars that are connected together. The frame 20 can be substantially formed as a parallelpiped the edges of which extend substantially along three mutually orthogonal axes X, Y, Z (Figures 1 and 2). A main dimension (vertical dimension) of the parallelpiped can be arranged along a vertical axis Z. In use, the vertical axis Z extends substantially transversely, in particularly substantially orthogonally, to the floor P.

[0032] The robotic apparatus 1 comprises a movable base 23. The movable base 23 can be obtained on a base of the frame 20 and can be provided with a plurality of bar elements 23 a, 23b, 23c, 23d connected together at connecting zones to form a rectangular structure, in particular square structure.

[0033] The main dimensions (length and width) of this rectangular structure lie on a base plane that is substantially parallel to the axes X and Y, i.e. to the plane XY (and, in use, to the floor P). The movable base 23 supports wheel units 30 arranged for moving the robotic apparatus 1 on the floor P.

[0034] In other words, the movable base 23 is provided with wheel units 30 drivable to enable the robotic apparatus 1 to move on the floor P to reach the electronic component to be maintained.

[0035] In one embodiment that is not illustrated, the rectangular structure of the movable base 23 comprises, in particular, a trapezium structure.

[0036] In a further embodiment that is not illustrated, the movable base 23 can be tilted with respect to the plane XY.

[0037] Each of the wheel units 30 includes a wheel 31 that is rotatable by motor means 32, 33. The motor means 32, 33 comprises in particular an advancement motor 32 and a steering motor 33 to rotate the wheel 31 respectively around two mutually orthogonal rotation axes. [0038] In particular, the wheel 31 is rotatable around its main axis by the advancement motor 32. [0039] The wheel 31 is connected rotatably to the movable base 23 by a rotatable support element 31a arranged below the movable base 23. The rotatable support element 31a (or equivalently the wheel 31) is rotatable by the steering motor 33 around a steering axis that is substantially transverse, in particular substantially orthogonal, to the main axis of the wheel 31. The steering axis is substantially transverse, in particular substantially orthogonal, to the base plane of the movable base 23 (and, in use, to the floor P).

[0040] With reference to Figure 2A, for each wheel unit 30 respective motor control means 32a, 33a is provided connected electrically to the respective motor means 32, 33. The motor control means 32a, 33a is configured to control the motor means 32, 33 on the basis of an input signal.

[0041] The motor control means 32a, 33a of each wheel unit 30 is connected to central control means 80 that will be disclosed below.

[0042] The central control means 80 can be configured to receive a signal relating to a desired position, for example relating to a predefined area of the floor P, and on the basis of this signal drive in synergy the motor means 32, 33 of the wheel units 30 so that the robotic apparatus 1 can advance on the floor P to reach the desired position and/or be oriented with respect to the desired position.

[0043] Additionally or alternatively, the central control means 80 can be configured to receive a signal relating to desired direction, for example an advancement direction on the floor P and/or a rotation on the floor P, and on the basis of this signal drive synergically the motor means 32, 33 of the wheel units 30 such that the robotic apparatus 1 can advance on the floor P along the desired direction and/or be oriented with respect to the desired direction. [0044] With reference to Figures 1 and 2, in the specific embodiment, four wheel units 30 are provided that are arranged at the connecting zones of the movable base 23; for each wheel unit 30, a respective advancement motor 32 and a respective steering motor 33 are provided.

[0045] In use, the robotic apparatus 1 can move on the floor P along the desired direction by driving the steering motors 33 to align the wheels 31 so that they are substantially parallel to the desired direction and by driving the advancement motors 32 to advance along the desired direction.

[0046] In use, the robotic apparatus 1 can be oriented with respect to the floor P, in particular by rotating around an axis of revolution substantially parallel to the vertical dimension of the parallelpiped, by driving the steering motors 33 to rotate the wheels 31 so that they are substantially orthogonal to the axis of revolution and by driving the advancement motors 31. [0047] The robotic apparatus 1 can comprise navigating means 83 configured to detect objects in the working room. The navigating means 83 can include a laser scanner and/or radar. The navigating means 83 can be supported by the movable base 23.

[0048] The robotic apparatus 1 comprises a power source 81, 82 to supply various devices of the robotic apparatus 1. In particular, the power source 81, 82 is arranged for supplying a movable support unit disclosed below. With reference to Figure 2A, the power source 81, 82 can be housed in, and supported by, the movable base 23. The power source 81, 82 can comprise an electric power source.

[0049] With reference to Figure 2A, the movable base 23 further comprises further support elements to support components of the robotic apparatus 1, such as by way of non-limiting example: the central control means 80, the power source 81, 82, motor control means 32a, 33a, cabling (not shown), the navigating means 83, etc.

[0050] The robotic apparatus 1 comprises at least one upright 21 that extends transversely, in particular substantially orthogonally to the movable base 23.

[0051] In other words, the at least one upright 21 extends from the movable base 23 substantially vertically, where “vertically” means with respect to the vertical axis Z. The at least one upright 21 can be obtained in the frame 20.

[0052] With reference to Figures 1 and 2, the frame 20 comprises a plurality of uprights 21 including a pair of front uprights 21a, 21b and a pair of rear uprights 21c, 21d. The terms “front” and “rear” relate to a preferential orientation adopted by the robotic apparatus 1 in use.

[0053] The uprights 21 can be arranged substantially parallel to one another.

[0054] The frame 20 comprises a top portion 22 provided with a plurality of bar elements 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d connected together to form a rectangular, in particular square, structure. The main dimensions (length and width) of this rectangular structure lie on a top plane substantially parallel to the plane XY.

[0055] In one embodiment that is not illustrated, the rectangular structure of the top portion 22 comprises, in particular, a trapezium structure.

[0056] In a further embodiment that is not illustrated, the top portion 22 can be tilted with respect to the plane XY.

[0057] The robotic apparatus 1 comprises at least one movable support unit 10, 50. Each movable support unit 10, 50 is arranged for supporting a respective tool device that is suitable for performing a predefined maintenance operation. The tool device comprises for example a robotic arm and/or an extracting device for extracting an electronic component and/or a processing device, such as a screwdriver or a video camera or camera and/or a viewing device and/or an indicating device and/or something else.

[0058] Each movable support unit 10, 50 is slidable vertically on at least one respective upright 21 to take the respective tool device to a desired work height. In particular, the movable support unit embodiment indicated by the reference number 10 can slide on a single upright 21, whereas the movable support unit embodiment indicated by the reference number 50 is slidable along a pair of uprights 21.

[0059] Each movable support unit 10, 50 comprises a respective coupling device 11 mounted on the movable support unit 10, 50 and arranged for coupling the movable support unit 10, 50 with the upright 21, the coupling device 11 being slidable along the upright 21.

[0060] The coupling device 11 comprises a support member l ie having an open structure 1 lb, 1 lc, 1 Id formed to surround at least partially a transverse portion 21e of the upright 21. The transverse portion 2 le is intended as a portion of the upright 21 of limited vertical extent, below the main vertical dimension of the upright 21. In the specific embodiment, in use, the vertical extent of the transverse portion 21e can be substantially the same as a vertical dimension of the coupling device 11.

[0061] Each coupling device 11 is provided with a coupling portion 11a connected movably to the open structure lib, 11c, lid to engage with and disengage from the open structure lib, 11c, lid.

[0062] The coupling portion 11a can comprise a layered structure, as disclosed below. Alternatively, the coupling portion 11a can be made of a single piece. In the specific embodiment shown in figures, the movable connecting portion 1 la can be rod-shaped. [0063] In the specific embodiment shown in particular in Figures 8 and 9, the open structure lib, 11c, lid comprises a plate-shaped structure. The open structure lib, 11c, lid can be substantially “C”-shaped (or “U”-shaped or horseshoe-shaped), bounding an inner zone F. The open structure lib, 11c, lid comprises an inner concave portion facing the inner zone F and an outer convex portion.

[0064] Each upright 21 of the plurality of uprights 21 comprises a box element, such as a profiled section, extending along the main dimension thereof. In the specific embodiment, the main dimension of each upright 21 extends substantially parallel to the vertical axis Z (Figures 1 and 2). With reference to Figures 7A, 8 and 9 the upright 21 can comprise one or more closed (or tubular) portions and/or one or more open (or lamina) portions.

[0065] The upright 21 comprises at least one vertical groove 2 If, 21g, 21h, 2 li that extends substantially parallel to the main dimension of the upright 21 (or equivalently to the vertical axis Z). Each vertical groove 2 If, 21g, 21h, 2 li can extend along all or most of the main dimension of the respective upright 21.

[0066] The upright 21 comprises at least one vertical wall 21k, 21m substantially parallel to the main dimension of the upright 21 (or equivalently to the vertical axis Z). Each vertical wall 21k, 21m can extend on a respective rest plane 2 lj along all or most of the main dimension of the respective upright 21.

[0067] With reference to the specific embodiment of Figures 7A, 8 and 9, the upright 21 has a substantially rectangular plan section, in particular square, and is provided with recesses that bound four vertical grooves 2 If, 21g, 21h, 2 li in opposite pairs. In the upright 21 of the specific embodiment, at least one vertical groove 2 If is interposed between two vertical walls 21k, 21m lying on the same vertical rest plane 2 lj . In the upright 21 of the specific embodiment, 4 rest planes are provided, a rest plane for each side of the square (in Figure 7A, for the sake of simplicity a rest plane 2 lj and a pair of walls 21k, 21m) has been indicated.

[0068] The robotic apparatus 1 comprises at least one elongated power supply element 25, 26 connected to the power source 81, 82 and to the movable support unit 10, 50 to supply driving means of the movable support unit 10, 50 - as will be disclosed below - and/or the tool device once the latter has been mounted on the movable support unit 10, 50.

[0069] The elongated power supply element 25, 26 can be fixed to the at least one upright 21. In particular, the elongated power supply element 25, 26 can be housed at least partially in a respective vertical groove 21g, 21h. The elongated power supply element 25, 26 can extend along all or most of a main dimension of the groove 21g, 21h in which it is housed. [0070] The elongated power supply element 25, 26 is provided with a conductive surface 25c. In the embodiment shown, the conductive surface 25c is an exposed surface, to conduct electricity by direct contact therewith. In an embodiment that is not shown, the conductive surface 25c is the surface of a conducting wire of an electric cable of known type. In this embodiment, the electric cable connects the power source to the movable support unit to supply the driving means and/or the tool device once mounted on the movable support unit. [0071] With reference to Figure 7A, the elongated power supply element 25, 26 can comprise a conductor element 25a on which the conductive surface 25c is obtained. The conductor element 25a can comprise a tubular element. The conductor element 25a can be covered partially with an insulating material 25b so as to leave the conductive surface 25c uncovered. This enables a short circuit of the power source 81, 82 with the upright 21 to be avoided. In the specific embodiment, the conductive surface 25c faces, in use, the concave portion of the open structure lib, 11c, lid.

[0072] In the specific embodiment shown in Figure 7A, there are two elongated power supply elements 25, 26 in two opposite vertical grooves 21g, 21h.

[0073] In a further embodiment, there are two elongated power supply elements that are adjacent and housed in the same vertical groove.

[0074] In one embodiment that is not illustrated, the open structure lib, 11c, lid can comprise a square structure, i.e. “L”-shaped structure, and the coupling portion 11a can comprise a further square structure. In a further embodiment that is not illustrated, the open structure lib, 11c, lid can comprise a rod-shaped structure and the coupling portion 11a can comprise a further C-shaped structure.

[0075] In the specific embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, each movable support unit 10 according to a first embodiment comprises two coupling devices 11 arranged vertically on top of one another.

[0076] In one embodiment that is not illustrated, a sole coupling device 11 for each movable support unit 10, 50 can be provided.

[0077] The open structure lib, 11c, lid is provided with two end portions, i.e. a first end portion and a second end portion. The open structure lib, 11c, lid comprises a base wall lib interposed between two end walls 11c, lid: a first end arm 11c and a second end arm 1 Id. The first end portion can be obtained on the first end arm 1 lc, whereas the second end portion can be obtained on the second end arm lid.

[0078] The open structure lib, 11c, lid can comprise a layered structure, as disclosed below. Alternatively, the open structure 1 lb, 1 lc, 1 Id can be made of a single piece.

[0079] The coupling portion 11a is provided with a movable connecting end and with a fixing end.

[0080] The coupling portion 1 la is connected movably to the first end arm 1 lc and is fixable to the second end arm lid. Alternatively, the coupling portion 11a can be connected movably to the second end arm lid and can be fixable to the first end arm 11c.

[0081] The coupling portion 1 la is rotatably connectable to the open structure 1 lb, 1 lc, 1 Id. In the specific embodiment shown in figures 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 and 9, the movable connecting end of the coupling portion 1 la is connected rotatably to the end portion of the first side arm 11c. [0082] The coupling portion 11a is rotatable around a rotation axis S that is substantially parallel to the vertical axis Z. In the specific embodiment shown in figures 4, 6, 8 and 9, the rotation axis S traverses the end portion of the first side arm 11c.

[0083] The coupling device 11 comprises hinge means arranged for permitting a movement of the coupling portion 1 la with respect to the open structure 1 lb, 1 lc, 1 Id. The hinge means is provided with a hole obtained on an end portion of the open structure 1 lb, 1 lc, 1 Id (for example, the end portion of the first side arm 11c) and a further hole obtained on the movable connecting end of the coupling portion 11a. The hole and the further hole are arranged substantially aligned vertically to receive a hinge element. The hinge element can comprise a removable fixing element, in particular a pin fixing element 18, such as a bolt fixing element.

[0084] The coupling device 11 comprises locking means arranged for permitting the coupling portion 11a to be fixed to the open structure lib, 11c, lid. The locking means is provided with an opening 17c obtained on an end portion of the open structure 1 lb, 1 lc, 1 Id (for example, the end portion of the second side arm lid) and a further opening 17c’ obtained on the fixing end of the coupling portion 11a. The opening 17c and the further opening 17c’ can be arranged substantially aligned (vertically) to receive a locking element. The locking element can comprise a further pin fixing element, like a further bolt fixing element.

[0085] In one embodiment that is not illustrated, the coupling portion 11a can be fixed slidingly to the open structure lib, 11c, lid.

[0086] In the specific embodiment shown in the figures, the coupling device 11 comprises a layered structure, in which the layers are arranged vertically on top of one another. The layer structure comprises at least two end layers between which at least one middle layer is interposed. The layers can comprise one or more plate elements.

[0087] The coupling device 11 comprises sliding members 16, 17 suitable for promoting, in use, sliding between the coupling device 11 and the respective upright 21.

[0088] The sliding members 16, 17 can comprise wheel elements, such as revolving bearings or rollers. Alternatively, the sliding members 16, 17 can include pad elements or the like. [0089] The sliding members 16, 17 can be spaced apart from one another by spacing elements 16a, 16b, 17a, 17b. One or more shafts can be provided (not visible in the figures) connected to the sliding members 16, 17, these shafts can be supported by the spacing elements 16a, 16b, 17a, 17b. The spacing elements 16a, 16b, 17a, 17b can comprise cuboid elements, in particular parallelpiped elements.

[0090] The layers respectively of the open structure lib, 11c, lid and of the coupling portion 11a can be fixed together by fastening elements, like a bolted connection or a screw connection. In a further embodiment that is not illustrated, the layers are glued or welded together.

[0091] The sliding members 16, 17 are arranged on the coupling device 11 such that a portion of the sliding members faces the inner zone F.

[0092] In use, when the movable support unit 10, 50 slides on the respective upright 21, the sliding members 16, 17 slide on the respective vertical walls of the upright 21. In the specific embodiment, the cylinder elements 16, 17 roll on the vertical walls of the upright 21.

[0093] The coupling device 11 is provided with a plurality of connecting protrusions that is suitable for fixing the coupling device 11 to other components of the movable support unit 10, 50 as disclosed below.

[0094] In the specific embodiment shown in figures, the plurality of connecting protrusions is obtained on the convex portion of the open structure lib, 11c, lid. In particular, the plurality of connecting protrusions can be obtained on the end layers of the layer structure. [0095] With reference to Figures 1, 3, 4 and 8, the coupling portion 1 la is capable of taking on a closed configuration G in which the coupling portion 11a is nearer the open structure lib, 11c, lid such that the coupling device 11 surrounds the transverse portion 21e. In the closed configuration G, sliding of the movable support unit 10, 50 on the upright 21 can be provided for. In the closed configuration G, the sliding members 16, 17 can contact the upright 21, in particular the sliding members 16, 17 can contact the vertical walls of the upright 21.

[0096] With reference to Figures 2, 5, 6 and 9, the coupling portion 1 la is capable of taking on an open configuration H in which the open structure 1 lb, 1 lc, 1 Id partially surrounds the transverse portion 21e and the coupling portion 11a is further from the open structure lib, 1 lc, 1 Id so as to allow the movable support unit 10, 50 to be mounted on and/or dismantled from the upright 21.

[0097] In other words, the coupling device 11 is movable between a closed configuration G in which the coupling portion 11a is fixed to the open structure lib, 11c, lid to surround the transverse portion 21e, and an open configuration H in which the open structure lib, 1 lc, 1 Id partially surrounds the transverse portion 21e and the coupling portion 1 la is moved with respect to the open portion 1 lb, 1 lc, 1 Id to enable the movable support unit 10, 50 to be moved towards or away from the respective upright 21.

[0098] In the open configuration H, the coupling portion 1 la is rotated - around the rotation axis S - with respect to the open structure 1 lb, 1 lc, 1 Id.

[0099] With reference to for example Figure 9, in the open configuration H the movable support unit 10, 50 can be extracted or inserted along a dismantling direction K substantially transverse to the vertical axis Z. The dismantling direction K can be in particular substantially parallel to the axis Y.

[0100] Each movable support unit 10, 50 comprises respective driving means 12 mounted on the movable support unit 10, 50 and configured to move the movable support unit 10, 50 along the at least one upright 21.

[0101] The driving means 12 can comprise a reduction gear, in particular a worm reduction gear. The driving means 12 can comprise, in particular, an electric motor.

[0102] The robotic apparatus 1 can comprise transmission means 12a, 24 mounted on the driving means 12 to transmit motion to the at least one movable support unit 10, 50. In particular, the transmission means 12a, 24 enables movement to be transmitted along the upright 21 to the movable support unit 10, 50 when the driving means 12 is operational and a height to be fixed, for example the desired height, when the driving means 12 is not operational. The transmission means 12a, 24 can comprise a first transmission member 12a mounted on the driving means 12 and a second transmission member 24 fixed to a respective upright 21, the second transmission member 24 being arranged for coupling with the first transmission member 12a.

[0103] The second transmission member 24 can comprise a rack 24 arranged vertically on the at least one upright 21. The rack 24 can be housed at least partially in a respective vertical groove 2 If such that a toothed portion of the rack 24 protrudes from the respective rest plane 2 lj (Figure 7A). The rack 24 can extend along all or most of a vertical dimension of the groove 2 If in which it is housed. Each rack 24 is fixed removably to the respective upright 21.

[0104] The first transmission member 12a can comprise a connection mechanism configured to engage the second transmission member 24. The first transmission member 12a can comprise a toothed wheel 12b. The toothed wheel 12b can be mounted on the driving means 12 to engage the worm screw of the reduction gear from the side of the driving means 12 and, in use, to engage the second transmission member 24 from the side of the upright 21. [0105] In use, the coupling between the worm screw and the toothed wheel 12b enables the movable support unit 10, 50 to maintain a set height when the driving means 12 is not operating, for example when the driving means 12 is disconnected from the power source 81, 82.

[0106] The driving means 12 is controllable to rotate the toothed wheel 12b and, when the toothed wheel 12b engages the rack 24, to vary a height of the movable support unit 10, 50 along the respective upright 21.

[0107] The driving means 12 is connected to the coupling device 11 (in the specific embodiment to two coupling devices 11) directly or indirectly. Each movable support unit 10, 50 comprises support means arranged for supporting the driving means 12 on the respective coupling device/s 11 and/or for supporting other components of the movable support unit 10,50. In the specific embodiment of the first embodiment, the support means can comprise at least one plate-shaped support element 19a, 19b arranged outside the convex portion of the open structure 1 lb, 1 lc, 1 Id of the coupling device 11 to cover at least partially the open structure lib, 11c, lid and/or other components of the movable support unit 10, 50, like the driving means 12, and/or for supporting the driving means 12 and other components of the movable support unit 10, 50, like electronic components of the movable support unit 10, 50. In the specific embodiment of the first embodiment, two support elements 19a, 19b are provided arranged laterally to the two coupling devices 11.

[0108] With reference to Figures 4 and 6, the driving means 12 is mounted movably on the support means, in particular on the support element indicated by the numeric reference 19b so as to be able to adopt an engaged position W and a disengaged position V as described below.

[0109] The support means can comprise a support block 13 to which the tool device can be fitted.

[0110] In the specific embodiment of the first embodiment, the support block 13 is connectable removably to at least one coupling device 11. The support block 13 is plate shaped, in particular “C”-shaped, and is connected at an upper vertical height to a first coupling device 11 and at a lower vertical height to a second coupling device 11.

[0111] In the second embodiment of the movable support unit 50, the support means comprises a plate body 51 provided with two opposite faces substantially parallel to one another: a front face and a rear face (Figures 13 and 14).

[0112] The first transmission member 12a is capable of taking on an engaged position W in which the transmission device 12a is engaged with the transmission means 24, and a disengaged position V in which the first transmission member 12a is far from the transmission means 12a. In the specific embodiment shown in Figures 9 A and 9B, the toothed wheel 12b can move between an engaged position W in which the toothed wheel 12b is engaged with the rack 24 and a disengaged position V in which the toothed wheel 12b is disengaged from the rack 24.

[0113] Referring again to Figure 9A and 9B, the driving means 12 can rotate around an oscillation axis S’ with respect to the support element 19b.

[0114] In particular, the first transmission member 12a comprises at least one pin element 12d, 12e, 12f that can be coupled movably with at least one through opening 19c, 19d, 19e, 19f obtained in the support element 19b, the at least one pin element 12d, 12e, 12f being inserted into the at least one through opening 19d, 19c, 19f. The at least one through opening 19c, 19d, 19e, 19f can comprise at least one slot through opening 19d, 19e, 19f arranged for receiving at least one pin element 12e, 12f, such that the first transmission member 12a can move between the engaged position W and disengaged position V.

[0115] The at least one through opening 19c, 19d, 19e, 19f can comprise at least one circular through opening 19c substantially aligned on the oscillation axis S’ arranged for receiving a pin 12d and permitting the first transmission member 12a to rotate around the oscillation axis S’.

[0116] Each movable support unit comprises at least one end conductor element (not shown) connected electrically to the driving means 12 and facing, in use the at least one upright 21 for contacting the conductive surface 25c of the at least one elongated power supply element 25, 26 to make an electrical contact between the driving means 12 and the power source 81, 82.

[0117] In other words, the at least one end conductor element protrudes from the concave portion of the open structure lib, 11c, lid (to the inner zone F) to contact, in use, the conductive surface 25c so as to make an electrical contact. Two end conductors opposite one another and arranged respectively on the first end arm 11c and on the second end arm lid. Additionally, the at least one end conductor element can be connected electrically to the tool device to supply the tool device.

[0118] The end conductor element can comprise a roller element, such as a revolving bearing made of conductive material arranged for rolling on the conductive surface 25c. Additionally or alternatively, the end conductor element can comprise a brush made of conducting material, such as a metal and/or carbon, arranged for sliding on the conductive surface 25c. [0119] The driving means 12 are electrically connected to the end conducting element to be supplied, in use, by the power source 81, 82.

[0120] Additionally, each movable support unit 10, 50 can comprise a further power source (not shown) so as to make up for possible interruptions to electrical contact, for example between the end conductor element and the elongated power supply element 25, 26. The further power source can comprise a battery or one or more capacitors.

[0121] With reference to in particular Figures 13 and 14, each of the coupling devices 11 of the movable support unit 50 according to the second embodiment is arranged for sliding along a respective upright 21, parallel to the vertical axis Z. In the specific embodiment, the movable support unit 50 comprises four coupling devices 11 that are slidable in pairs on the rear uprights 21c, 2 Id. In one embodiment that is not illustrated, the movable support unit 50 can be slidable on a different pair of uprights 21, like for example the front uprights 21a, 21b. In a further embodiment that is not illustrated, the movable support unit 50 can be slidable on a pair of lateral uprights, like for example a first pair of lateral uprights 21a, 21c or a second pair of lateral uprights 21b, 2 Id.

[0122] In the specific embodiment shown in figures 13 and 14, the open structures of the coupling device 11 are fixed removably to the rear face of the plate body 51.

[0123] In the second embodiment of the movable support unit 50, the driving means 12 further comprises a drive shaft 12d on which the toothed wheel 12b to protrude into the inner zone F and a further toothed wheel 12b’ are splined to protrude into a further inner zone (not shown) such that the toothed wheel 12b and the further toothed wheel 12a’ engage, in use, respectively, the second transmission members 24 and further second transmission members. The further second transmission members can be similar to the second transmission members 24.

[0124] The drive shaft 12d is supported by respective rotation support elements, such as bearings or bushes, fixed to the plate body 51.

[0125] In the specific embodiment shown in Figures 13 and 14, the drive shaft 12d is supported near a lower edge of the plate body 51, where “lower” means with respect to the vertical axis Z.

[0126] The movable support unit 50 can support a vision tool device 60 that is suitable for detecting a field of vision in a maintenance operation. The plate body 51 is provided with a recess in an upper edge thereof, where “upper” means with respect to the vertical axis Z, in which a viewing device 60 can be housed. [0127] The viewing device 60 can comprise stereoscopic viewing means, like a stereoscopic camera, to detect the depth of the detected visual field. In a further embodiment that is not illustrated, the viewing device 60 can comprise a monoscope camera and/or video camera. [0128] The viewing device 60 can be driven by respective actuating means to detect the field of vision according to one or more degrees of freedom.

[0129] The movable support unit 50 according to the second embodiment supports an indicating device 70 suitable for projecting a beam of light to indicate a maintenance area, for example a surface of an electronic component to be maintained.

[0130] The indicating device 70 can comprise, in particular, an indicating device laser. [0131] Each movable support unit 10, 50 can comprise sensor means 15 arranged for detecting the presence of an object along the upright 21 and configured to transmit a stop signal to the respective driving means 12 to stop vertical sliding of the movable support unit 10 such that said movable support unit 10, 50 does not interfere with the object. The sensor means 15 can comprise presence sensors, in particular optical and/or magnetic sensors. [0132] This object can be a further support unit 10’ according to the first embodiment and/or the top portion 22 of the frame 20 and/or the movable base 23.

[0133] The sensor means 15 can be arranged for interacting with a limit switch element 14. This limit switch element 14 can be mounted on a movable support unit 10’ according to the first embodiment, in a configuration in which two movable support units 10, 10’ are slidable on the same upright 21.

[0134] With reference to Figures 1, 10, 11 and 12, an embodiment is shown in which two movable support units 10, 10’ are mounted on the same upright 21: a first movable support unit 10 and a second movable support unit 10’. The two movable support units 10, 10’ are capable of taking on, in particular, a spaced position D, in which the sensor means 15 of the first movable support unit 10 are distant from the limit switch element 14 of the second movable support unit 10’ and a near position C, in which the sensor means 15 of the first movable support unit 10 is engaged in the limit switch element 14 of the second movable support unit 10’.

[0135] As mentioned, additionally or alternatively, sensor means 15 and limit switch elements 14 can be provided at the movable base 23 and/or the summit 22 [0136] In the near position C, the sensor means 15 sends a stop signal to the driving means 12 that stops the movement of at least one of the two movable support units 10, 10’ avoiding the contact thereof. [0137] Each movable support unit 10, 50 can comprise one or more control devices 90, 91 mounted on the movable support unit 10, 50 and arranged for controlling the respective driving means 12 for taking to the desired height the movable support unit 10, 50 and/or the respective tool device. In the specific embodiment of the movable support unit 10 according to the first embodiment and in the specific embodiment of the movable support unit 50 according to the second embodiment the one or more control devices 90, 91 are fixed to the support means.

[0138] The one or more control devices 90, 91 can comprise a transponding device arranged for communicating with the central control means 80. The transponding device can be of the wireless type (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, IR, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the transponding device can be connected in a cabled manner to central control means 80.

[0139] As mentioned, the central control means 80 is comprised in the robotic apparatus 1 and is configured to control the one or more control devices 90, 91 and/or the motor control means 32a, 33a and/or the user devices. The central control means 80 can comprise a further transponding device to communicate with the one or more control devices 90, 91 and/or the motor control means 32a, 33a and/or the user devices. The further transponding device can be of wireless type (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, IR, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the further transponding device can be connected in a cabled manner to the one or more control devices 90, 91 and/or to the motor control means 32a, 33a and/or to the tool device/s.

[0140] The central control means 80 can communicate with a remote station by a wireless or cabled data connection. The remote station can comprise a computer, a portable device, a Smartphone, a handheld device, etc.. This enables a remote operator in the remote station to control the robotic apparatus 1, for example the movements of the movable base 23, the movements of the movable support unit/s 10, 50 and the respective tool device/s.

[0141] The movable support units 10, 10’, 10”, 50 (Figures 1 and 2) owing to the respective driving means 12 can move independently of one another, in particular can be controlled to reach desired heights that are independent of one another.

[0142] The specific arrangement of driving means 12 and of one or more control devices 90, 91 on each movable support unit 10, 50 enables the engineering of the robotic apparatus 1 to be optimized and the structure of the transmission means to be simplified to move the movable support unit 10, 50 vertically on the upright/s 21.

[0143] Further, the particular structure of the coupling device 11 owing, in particular, to the coupling portion 11a enables one or more movable support units 10, 50 to be easily added and/or removed and/or replaced together with the respective tool device to adapt the robotic apparatus 1 to the specific maintenance operation to be performed. This adaptability enables the robotic apparatus to be used slowly by the user devices that are suitable for the specific maintenance operation, optimizing (reducing) the total weight of the robotic apparatus 1 and the electric power installed on the apparatus, this resulting in an increase in the autonomy of the robotic apparatus 1.

Claims

1. Robotic apparatus (1) for performing maintenance operations on an electronic component to be maintained in a working room, including:

- a movable base (23) provided with wheel units (30) drivable to enable said robotic apparatus (1) to travel on a floor (P) of said working room to reach said electronic component to be maintained,

- at least one upright (21) extending substantially vertically from said movable base (23), where “vertically” is intended with respect to a vertical axis (Z) which is, in use, substantially orthogonal to said floor (P), and

- at least one movable support unit (10; 50) arranged for supporting a respective tool device which is suitable for performing a predefined maintenance operation on said electronic component, said at least one movable support unit (10; 50) being movable on said at least one upright (21) to bring said tool device at a desired height, each movable support unit (10; 50) comprising respective driving means (12) mounted on said movable support unit (10; 50) and configured to move said movable support unit (10; 50) along said at least one upright (21); wherein each movable support unit (10; 50) comprises at least one respective coupling device (11) mounted on said at least one movable support unit (10; 50) and arranged for coupling said at least one movable support unit (10; 50) with said at least one upright (21), said coupling device (11) being slidable along said at least one upright (21); wherein said coupling device (11) comprises a support member (lie) having an open structure (lib, 1 lc, 1 Id) shaped to surround at least partially a transverse portion (21e) of said at least one upright (21); characterized in that said at least one coupling device (11) comprises a coupling portion (1 la) movably connected to said open structure (1 lb, 1 lc, 1 Id) to engage with, and disengage from, said open structure (lib, 11c, lid), said coupling portion (11a) being capable of taking on a closed configuration (G), in which said coupling portion (11a) is closer to said open structure (lib, 11c, lid) so that said coupling device (11) surrounds said transverse portion (21e), and an open configuration (H), in which said open structure (11a, lib, 11c) surrounds partially said transverse portion (21e) and said coupling portion (11a) is further from said open structure (lib, 1 lc, 1 Id) so as to enable mounting and/or demounting of said movable support unit (10; 50) on and/or from said at least one upright (21).

2. Robotic apparatus (1) according to claim 1, wherein said open structure (lib, 11c, 1 Id) at ends thereof is provided with a first end arm (11c) and with a second end arm (1 Id), said coupling portion (1 la) being pivotably connected to said first end arm (1 lc) and being fixable to said second end arm (1 Id) through removable fastening elements.

3. Robotic apparatus (1) according to claim 2, wherein said coupling portion (11a) is rotatable with respect to a rotation axis (S) which is substantially parallel to said vertical axis (Z).

4. Robotic apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said robotic apparatus (1) comprises transmission means (12a, 24) mounted on said driving means (12) to transmit motion to said at least one movable support unit (10; 50).

5. Robotic apparatus (1) according to claim 4, wherein said transmission means (12a, 24) comprises a first transmission member (12a) mounted on said driving means (12) and a second transmission member (24) fixed to said at least one upright (21) and arranged for coupling with said first transmission member (12a).

6. Robotic apparatus (1) according to claim 5, wherein said first transmission member (12a) comprises at least one gear wheel (12b; 12b’) and said second transmission member (24) comprises at least one rack (24) arranged vertically on said at least one upright (21).

7. Robotic apparatus (1) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein said first transmission member (12a) is movable between an engaging position (W) in which said first transmission member(12a) is engaged with said second transmission member (24), and a disengaging position (V) in which said first transmission member (12a) is far from said second transmission member (24), in said engaging position (W) said transmission means (12a, 24) enabling to fix an height when said driving means (12) is not operating, and to transmit motion along said at least one upright (21) to said movable support unit (10; 50) when said driving means (12) is operating.

8. Robotic apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising a power source (81, 82) and at least one elongated power supply element (25, 26) connected to said power source (81, 82) to supply power to said movable support unit (10; 50).

9. Robotic apparatus (1) according to claim 8, wherein said at least one elongated power supply element (25, 26) comprises an electrical conductor (25a) fixed to said at least one upright (21).

10. Robotic apparatus (1) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein each upright (21) is provided with at least one vertical groove (21g, 21h), said at least one elongated power supply element (25, 26) being housed at least partially in said least one vertical groove (21g, 21h).

11. Robotic apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein each movable support unit (10; 50) comprises at least one terminal conductor element which is electrically connected to said driving means (12) and which is, in use, facing said at least one upright (21) to contact a conductive surface (25c) of said at least one elongated power supply element (25, 26) to make an electrical connection between said movable support unit (10; 50) and said power source (81, 82).

12. Robotic apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein said movable support unit (10; 50) comprises sensor means (15) arranged for detecting an object along said at least one upright (21) and configured to transmit a stop signal to said driving means (12) to stop a vertical sliding of said movable support unit (10) so that said movable support unit (10; 50) does not interfere with said object.

13. Robotic apparatus (1) according to claim 12, further comprising a further movable support unit (10’), said movable support unit (10; 50) and said further movable support unit (10’) being slidable on a same upright (21), in which said object can comprise said further movable support unit (10’).