Cleaning Robot RF-Based Docking for Remote Station Location
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cleaning robots face challenges in accurately docking to charging stations, especially when located remotely or with obstacles in between, due to limitations in recognizing guide signals, leading to potential battery depletion and operational cessation.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning robot equipped with a radio frequency (RF) signal strength indicator (RSSI) system that uses directional antennas and a controller to estimate the station's direction based on RSSI values, integrating data from multiple antennas and map information to navigate accurately, even in the presence of obstacles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If IR sensor-based docking methods are used, then the cleaning robot can dock to the station when close, but the cleaning robot cannot recognize the guide signal when located at a remote position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the optical-based guide signal recognition system (IR sensors, image sensors) with an RF signal-based docking system. The cleaning robot uses an RF signal receiver to detect radio frequency signals transmitted by the station, allowing the robot to locate and dock to the station from remote positions without relying on optical line-of-sight guidance.
2Measurement precision
If LIDAR pattern recognition-based docking methods are used, then the cleaning robot can achieve accurate docking, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes complex LIDAR-based pattern recognition systems with a simpler RF signal reception system. Instead of using LIDAR to scan and recognize station patterns, the robot simply receives RF signals from the station, significantly reducing system complexity while maintaining docking functionality.
3Measurement precision
If image sensor-based docking methods are used, then the cleaning robot can recognize visual guides, but the system fails when obstacles block the line of sight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces image sensor-based visual guide recognition with RF signal-based detection. Since RF signals can penetrate or diffract around obstacles, the cleaning robot can reliably detect the station's position even when obstacles block the direct line of sight, significantly improving docking reliability in obstructed environments.
4Device complexity
If the cleaning robot uses conventional docking methods, then the system structure remains simple, but the battery power decreases due to failure in finding the station
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional optical docking systems with RF signal-based docking, enabling the robot to find the station from remote positions without prolonged searching. This reduces the time the robot spends searching for the station, thereby reducing battery power consumption while maintaining simple system structure.
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
The RF-based docking system enables the cleaning robot to effectively locate and dock to the charging station from a distance and around obstacles, enhancing operational reliability and reducing battery depletion risks.
Implementation Method 1
a cleaning robot antenna unit configured to receive a radio frequency (RF) signal transmitted from a station
Implementation Method 2
a controller configured to extract a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) value by processing the RF signal received by the cleaning robot antenna unit
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relate to a cleaning robot docking to a station based on a radio frequency (RF) signal and a method of controlling the same. The cleaning robot comprises an antenna unit configured to receive a radio frequency (RF) signal transmitted from a station and a controller configured to extract a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) value by processing the RF signal received by the antenna unit and control movement of the cleaning robot to dock to the station based on the extracted RSSI value.