Collision Sensor Structure for Mobile Robots in Tight Spaces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile robotic devices face challenges in navigating through tight spaces and escaping trapped positions between stationary objects, as existing sensor systems lack the necessary complexity and compactness to effectively manage collisions and maneuvering freedom.
Innovation Solution
A mobile robotic device with a displaceable sensor member attached to a frame, utilizing first and second detection means to detect predetermined displacements, allowing for a compact and simple structure that enhances maneuvering freedom by switching detection mechanisms based on the severity of collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single detection means is used for collision sensing, then the device complexity is reduced, but the maneuvering freedom and collision detection capability in tight spaces is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic detection system where the mobile device switches between first detection means (ultrasonic sensors) and second detection means (collision sensors) based on the operational context. When trapped between objects, the system dynamically activates the second detection means to sense collisions during escape maneuvers, providing adaptability without permanent complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The collision sensor serves multiple functions: it detects both gentle contacts and strong collisions, enables escape from trapped positions, and provides information for path planning. This multi-functionality increases maneuvering freedom without proportionally increasing system complexity
2Measurement precision
If the sensor member has high spring load for rigid collision detection, then strong collisions are detected accurately, but gentle contacts may be missed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different spring load characteristics to different portions of the sensor member. The first portion has a first spring load for detecting gentle contacts, while the second portion has a second spring load for detecting strong collisions. This local differentiation allows the single sensor member to detect both gentle and strong collisions accurately
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor member is segmented into multiple portions with different detection characteristics. Each portion is responsible for detecting a specific range of collision forces, allowing the system to cover a broader detection range without sacrificing precision for any specific collision type
3Measurement precision
If the sensor member has low spring load for gentle contact detection, then gentle contacts are detected accurately, but strong collisions may cause excessive displacement
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the sensor member have different spring load characteristics optimized for their specific detection needs. The first portion with lower spring load detects gentle contacts accurately, while the second portion with higher spring load maintains stability during strong collisions, preventing excessive displacement
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 device achieves increased maneuvering freedom and effective collision detection, enabling it to escape trapped positions by activating secondary detection means when primary means are insufficient, ensuring continued movement and path adjustment.
Implementation Method 1
sensing a collision between the mobile device and a stationary object
Implementation Method 2
the sensor member is disposed in a spring-loaded fashion so as to normally be in an extended position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
A mobile robotic device comprising at least one displaceable sensor member (8,9) for sensing a collision between the mobile device and a stationary object. First detection means (12,13) are present for detection a predetermined first displacement of the sensor member (8,9) and second detection means (14,15) are present for detecting a predetermined larger displacement of the sensor member (8,9).