Autonomous Mobile Device Fall Prevention via Level Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous mobile devices face challenges in preventing falls when transitioning from one level to another, such as from a table to the floor, due to the lack of effective height detection and movement restriction mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
The autonomous mobile device employs a controller with an acquirer, determiner, and movement restrictor, utilizing barometric and acceleration sensors to detect level differences and restrict parallel shifts when a given height threshold is exceeded, preventing falls by ensuring the device remains on a datum level.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the autonomous mobile device uses height detection and movement restriction mechanisms to prevent falls, then fall prevention capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (height detection, level determination, and movement restriction) into a single integrated controller. The controller acquires height information from sensors, determines whether the device is on a datum level, and restricts movement accordingly, all through one control unit. This merging approach improves fall prevention capability while minimizing the increase in device complexity by consolidating control functions rather than adding separate independent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary logical layer (the determiner function within the controller) that processes raw sensor data and translates it into movement restriction decisions. This intermediary layer acts as a mediator between the height detection sensors and the movement control mechanism, enabling intelligent fall prevention without requiring direct complex coupling between sensors and actuators, thus managing system complexity effectively.
2Reliability
If the device restricts movement when height threshold is exceeded, then fall prevention is improved, but mobility and operational flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic movement restriction that adapts to the detected environment. The controller continuously monitors height information and dynamically adjusts movement permissions based on whether the device is on a datum level or an elevated surface. This dynamic approach allows the device to maintain full mobility on safe surfaces while automatically restricting movement only when fall risk is detected, thus preserving operational flexibility while improving fall prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the movement control parameter (movement permission/restriction) based on the detected height parameter. When the height exceeds a given threshold and the device is determined to be not on a datum level, the movement parameter changes from permitted to restricted. This parameter-based control approach enables automatic adaptation to varying environmental conditions, maintaining mobility flexibility while ensuring fall prevention when necessary.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution effectively prevents falls by accurately determining level changes and restricting movement when necessary, allowing the device to continue operating according to its intended purpose without unnecessary restrictions, even on varying floor levels or inclined surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing barometric and acceleration sensors to detect level differences
Implementation Method 2
utilizing barometric and acceleration sensors to detect level differences
Data Source
AI summary
An acquirer of an autonomous mobile device acquires a value of level difference between a datum level and the device. A determiner determines whether the value of level difference acquired by the acquirer is equal to or higher than a given value. A movement restrictor restricts parallel shift of the device when the determiner determines that the value is equal to or higher than the given value.