Plurality of autonomous mobile robots and controlling method for the same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile robot systems face challenges in seamless follow-up control between multiple robots due to reliance on server-based communication, which can be disrupted, and lack of direct relative position determination between master and slave robots, leading to inefficiencies and increased sensor costs.
Innovation Solution
Implementing Ultra-Wideband (UWB) signal transmission and reception modules in mobile robots, with specific antenna configurations and blocking members, to enable direct relative position determination and seamless follow-up control without server dependency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If server-based communication is used for position information transmission, then communication infrastructure is simplified, but communication reliability deteriorates when server connection is unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces UWB modules as an intermediary communication channel between master and slave robots, enabling direct position information exchange without server dependency. This dual-channel approach (server + direct UWB) maintains simplicity while ensuring reliability when server connection is lost.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes communication parameters by switching between server-based communication and direct UWB communication based on connection status. When server connection is unavailable, the system transitions to using only direct UWB modules for position information transmission.
2Ease of manufacture
If obstacle detection devices are used for position determination, then existing sensors are utilized, but measurement precision deteriorates due to indirect position calculation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical obstacle detection system with an electromagnetic-based UWB communication system for position determination. UWB signals provide direct, accurate relative position measurement between robots without the indirect calculation errors inherent in obstacle detection methods.
3Device complexity
If relative position information is transmitted through server, then communication protocol is simplified, but information loss occurs when server communication is disconnected
Solution Approach 1:
UWB modules serve as an intermediary information channel that directly transmits position data between master and slave robots. This parallel communication path ensures position information continuity even when server communication is interrupted, preventing information loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes direct UWB communication links in advance as a backup channel, cushioning against potential server disconnection. This preparatory measure ensures position information transmission continues uninterrupted when server communication fails.
4Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are added for accurate position determination, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex multi-sensor configurations with a simplified UWB module-based system. UWB technology inherently provides accurate relative position determination through time-of-flight measurement, eliminating the need for multiple additional sensors while maintaining high precision.
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
Accurately determines the relative position of mobile robots, reducing sensor costs and ensuring seamless follow-up control regardless of communication state with a server, enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a first mobile robot 100a having a first module for transmitting and receiving an Ultra-Wideband (UWB) signal, and a second mobile robot 100b having a second module for transmitting and receiving the UWB signal
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A plurality of autonomous mobile robots includes a first mobile robot having a first module for transmitting and receiving an Ultra-Wideband (UWB) signal, and a second mobile robot having a second module for transmitting and receiving the UWB signal. The second mobile robot follows the first mobile robot using the UWB signal.