Cleaning robot capable of eliminating reflection interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cleaning robots struggle with detecting two-dimensional depth information and accurately calculating distances from obstacles, leading to frequent bumping and potential damage due to dead zones in sensor fields of view.
Innovation Solution
The cleaning robot employs a light source module to project vertical and horizontal line patterns, combined with an image sensor and processor to calculate two-dimensional depth information and maintain a fixed distance from obstacles, using a single or dual image sensor setup to avoid interference and detect transparent surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple different sensors are adopted to detect front distance and wall distance, then distance detection coverage is improved, but dead zones appear in sensor fields of view causing frequent bumping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensor functions into a single imaging sensor that captures both front distance and wall distance information simultaneously through a unified optical path, eliminating dead zones between separate sensors and preventing frequent bumping while maintaining comprehensive distance detection coverage
2Device complexity
If conventional sensors are used for obstacle detection, then device complexity is reduced, but two-dimensional depth information and obstacle appearance cannot be identified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional distance measurement by conventional sensors to two-dimensional depth information acquisition by using an imaging sensor that captures spatial coordinates (x, y) of light pattern positions, enabling identification of obstacle appearance and comprehensive spatial mapping while maintaining relatively simple device structure
3Measurement precision
If light source projects pattern on work surface, then distance identification is enabled, but reflection interference from work surface material affects detection accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a semi-transparent reflective plate as an intermediary element that redirects light patterns at a predetermined angle, allowing the light source to project patterns without direct interaction with the work surface material, thereby enabling accurate distance identification while eliminating reflection interference from various surface materials
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
Enhances obstacle detection accuracy, reduces bumping, and extends the robot's service life by eliminating dead zones and adapting to various surface materials and inclinations.
Implementation Method 1
the image sensor is configured to acquire an image of the vertical line pattern toward the moving direction
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a cleaning robot including a light source module and an image sensor. The light source module projects a horizontal line pattern toward a moving direction. The image sensor captures, toward the moving direction, an image of the horizontal line pattern. The light source module is arranged below the image sensor so as to eliminate the interference from second reflection.