Amazon.com, Inc.
Mechanism for sequenced deployment of a mast

Abstract:

An autonomous mobile device with an extensible mast to raise and lower a payload, such as a camera, relative to a main body. The mast comprises a set of telescoping sections. A motor moves a flexible rack between a first spool and the mast to raise or lower the mast. For example, during extension a motor-driven pinion engages teeth on the flexible rack, pulling the rack from the first spool and pushing up the mast. A cable stored on a second spool may be extended and retracted with the flexible rack. The cable transfers one or more of data or power between the main body and the payload. A mechanism provides for sequenced deployment of the mast, with the innermost section moving first. While raising the mast, the mechanism engages between adjacent telescoping sections, locking them in place. While lowering the mast, the mechanism selectively releases section by section.