Abstract: A caster assembly for a mobile apparatus (e.g., robot incorporating multiple caster assemblies) includes a hoof member to configured to inhibit tipping of the mobile apparatus. A hoof member or a wheel of a caster assembly may be spring biased to permit a hoof to contact a travel surface on which the wheel is supported responsive to imposition of a downward vertical force on a stem of the assembly. A method of inhibiting tipping of such a mobile apparatus when transiting an area including a travel surface bounded by a ledge is further provided. To reduce shaking or spillage of cargo, transit risk areas may be mapped, and transit speed of a mobile robot may be reduced in or near transit risk areas.

Abstract: An autonomous mobile robot includes a flexible member including a polymer layer extending along an entire length of the flexible member, and an end portion vertically movable away from a body of the robot. A first portion of a fastening mechanism extends along a first lateral edge of the polymer layer and a second portion of the fastening mechanism extends along a second lateral edge of the polymer layer. The first portion of the fastening mechanism is attached to the second portion of the fastening mechanism and forms a conduit to support the image capture device. The conduit includes an inner surface and an outer surface, and the outer surface of the conduit is at least partially defined by the polymer layer. An image capture device is mounted to an end portion of the flexible member.

Abstract: An autonomous mobile robot includes a flexible member including a polymer layer extending along an entire length of the flexible member, and an end portion vertically movable away from a body of the robot. A first portion of a fastening mechanism extends along a first lateral edge of the polymer layer and a second portion of the fastening mechanism extends along a second lateral edge of the polymer layer. The first portion of the fastening mechanism is attached to the second portion of the fastening mechanism and forms a conduit to support the image capture device. The conduit includes an inner surface and an outer surface, and the outer surface of the conduit is at least partially defined by the polymer layer. An image capture device is mounted to an end portion of the flexible member.