Robotic Boundary-Wire Offset Control for Uniform Edge Mowing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic work tools often fail to uniformly treat areas near boundary wires due to fixed offset settings, leading to incomplete lawn mowing or other tasks, and increased risk of getting stuck, especially in varying ground conditions and weather.
Innovation Solution
A method and system allowing the robotic work tool to dynamically switch between multiple offset settings based on detected events such as position, time, weather, and terrain conditions, using sensors and GPS/GNSS for precise positioning, enabling adaptive operation within demarcated work areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed offset setting is used for boundary wire crossings, then the robotic work tool can operate with simple control logic, but it fails to uniformly treat areas near boundary wires and increases the risk of getting stuck in varying ground conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a fixed offset setting to a dynamic offset system that automatically adjusts the crossing offset based on detected ground conditions, weather conditions, and position information. The controller modifies the offset value in real-time to match actual environmental conditions, resolving the contradiction between simple control logic and operational reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of offset value from constant to variable. The system detects ground conditions (e.g., slipperiness, terrain type) and weather conditions (e.g., rain, temperature), then adjusts the offset parameter accordingly. This allows the robotic work tool to adapt to varying conditions while maintaining reliable operation near boundaries.
2Device complexity
If a fixed offset setting is used, then the device structure remains simple, but it cannot adapt to different ground conditions and weather conditions across the work area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by equipping the robotic work tool with multiple sensors (e.g., ground condition sensors, weather sensors, GPS/GNSS receivers) that enable the single device to detect and adapt to various ground conditions and weather conditions across different locations in the work area, rather than requiring separate devices for different conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from sensors that continuously monitor ground conditions, weather conditions, and position information. The controller receives this feedback and automatically adjusts the offset setting based on the detected conditions, enabling the device to adapt to varying environments without increasing structural complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If the robotic work tool crosses the boundary wire with offset to treat edge areas, then it can achieve uniform treatment of the entire work area, but it increases the risk of getting stuck in difficult terrain near boundaries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically changes the offset parameter based on detected ground conditions near the boundary wire. When difficult terrain is detected (e.g., slippery ground, steep slopes), the system reduces the offset value to prevent getting stuck. When conditions are favorable, it increases the offset to achieve uniform edge treatment, thus resolving the contradiction between precision and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static offset setting to a dynamic one that adjusts in real-time based on detected conditions. The controller continuously monitors ground conditions and modifies the crossing offset accordingly, allowing the robotic work tool to maintain both precise edge treatment and reliable operation by adapting to terrain difficulties as they are encountered.
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
Enables uniform treatment of entire work areas, including edges, by adjusting offsets for different conditions, reducing the risk of getting stuck and improving operational efficiency across varying environments.
Implementation Method 1
The outer limits of a working area of the robotic tool are usually defined, such as by walls or by an electric cable, which emits a magnetic field
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for operating a robotic work tool (1) comprising a sensor for detecting a boundary wire (3) demarcating a work area (2). The method comprises the steps of detecting (9) at least a partial crossing of the boundary wire (3), allowing (12) a crossing of the boundary wire (3) by an offset, switching (8) between a first offset setting and at least a second offset setting of the work tool (1) based on one or more events (7). A robotic work tool (1) comprises a controller for controlling the operation of the robotic working tool (1). The controller is configured to: control the work tool (1) to operate within the work area (2), determine whether the work tool (1) crosses the boundary wire (3), allow a crossing of the wire (3) by the offset, and switch (8) between at least two offset settings stored in the work tool (1).