Cleaning robot capable of identifying surface type
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cleaning robots lack the ability to effectively distinguish between different operation surfaces, such as solid and soft surfaces, leading to inadequate cleaning modes and potential damage from using liquids on inappropriate surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning robot equipped with two light sources and an image sensor, where a processor switches between them to identify the surface material based on image quality, allowing for adaptive cleaning modes to prevent liquid use on soft surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the cleaning robot uses a single light source for illumination, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to identify surface materials is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the illumination system into two separate light sources: a first light source (e.g., LED) for general illumination and a second light source (e.g., infrared) specifically for material identification. This segmentation allows each light source to be optimized for its specific function, improving measurement precision while keeping the overall system manageable through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning robot integrates multiple functions into a unified system where the processor coordinates both light sources and the image sensor to achieve both general illumination and specialized material identification. The system universally handles different surface types (solid, soft, transparent) by switching between light sources based on detection needs
2Measurement precision
If the cleaning robot continuously switches between light sources to identify surface materials, then the measurement precision improves, but the loss of time increases due to frequent switching
Solution Approach 1:
The processor is configured to switch to the second light source only when material identification is needed (e.g., when encountering an unknown surface or at predetermined intervals), rather than continuously switching. This preliminary action approach minimizes unnecessary switching while ensuring accurate identification when required
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic material identification by switching between light sources at predetermined time intervals or when specific conditions are met, rather than continuous switching. This periodic action reduces time loss while maintaining sufficient measurement precision for effective cleaning operation
3Productivity
If the cleaning robot uses liquid cleaning on all surfaces, then the cleaning effectiveness on solid surfaces is maintained, but harmful factors increase due to damage to soft surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning robot uses a feedback mechanism where the image sensor detects surface material type through light reflection characteristics, and the processor adjusts the cleaning mode accordingly. When soft surfaces are detected, the system feedbacks to stop or reduce liquid dispensing, preventing damage while maintaining effective cleaning on appropriate surfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (liquid flow rate, cleaning intensity) based on detected surface material properties. For soft surfaces, the liquid flow parameter is reduced or stopped; for solid surfaces, normal liquid cleaning is applied. This dynamic parameter adjustment optimizes cleaning effectiveness while minimizing harmful effects
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 the robot to accurately identify surface materials and adjust its cleaning operations, enhancing user experience by preventing damage and ensuring effective cleaning on various surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
The image sensor is configured to capture reflected light from the operation surface to output image frames
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a cleaning robot including a first light source, a second light source, an image sensor and a processor. The processor is used to calculate an image quality of an image frame captured by the image sensor when the second light source is being turned on. The processor then determines whether to switch the second light source back to the first light source according to the image quality to accordingly identify the material of an operation surface.