Covert Robot-Readable Tags for Invisible Object Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Robots face challenges in navigating and interacting with objects in a space, as they need to distinguish obstacles and identify objects for interaction, while existing solutions do not effectively differentiate between safe and hazardous interactions, nor provide clear instructions for interaction.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for marking objects with machine-readable, human-imperceptible indicia that provide information on object identification, interaction instructions, and navigation, using UV light detectable symbols or patterns that are invisible to the human eye, allowing robots to safely and accurately interact with appliances and other objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visible markings are used on objects, then robots can easily identify and interact with objects, but the markings are aesthetically unpleasant and interfere with the visual environment for humans
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different optical properties to different parts of the marking system: the indicia has properties that make it visible to robots (reflecting specific wavelengths), while the human-perceptible portion maintains normal aesthetic appearance. This local differentiation allows the same object surface to convey different information to different observers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes wavelength-specific reflectivity properties, where the indicia reflects electromagnetic radiation in specific wavelength ranges (visible to robots) while appearing transparent or aesthetically pleasing in the human visible spectrum. This spectral differentiation allows simultaneous visibility to robots and aesthetic neutrality to humans.
2Reliability
If detailed interaction instructions are provided on objects, then robots can safely and accurately interact with objects, but the information complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments interaction information into distinct categorical types (identification, interaction method, force parameters, sequence indicators). Each category can be independently encoded and decoded, allowing the robot to process only the relevant information for each specific interaction scenario rather than analyzing entire complex data structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent encodes interaction parameters (such as force magnitude, direction, sequence) as variations in physical properties of the indicia (wavelength reflectivity, spatial arrangement, intensity). This transforms complex interaction instructions into simple optical parameter variations that robots can detect without complex interpretation.
3Productivity
If machine-readable markings are made visible to robots, then navigation and object identification improve, but the markings become visible and potentially distracting to humans
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different optical properties to different parts of the marking system: the indicia has properties that make it visible to robots (reflecting specific wavelengths), while the human-perceptible portion maintains normal aesthetic appearance. This local differentiation allows the same object surface to convey different information to different observers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes wavelength-specific reflectivity properties, where the indicia reflects electromagnetic radiation in specific wavelength ranges (visible to robots) while appearing transparent or aesthetically pleasing in the human visible spectrum. This spectral differentiation allows simultaneous visibility to robots and aesthetic neutrality to humans.
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 robots to navigate and interact with objects efficiently and safely by providing machine-readable information that is aesthetically invisible to humans, reducing the risk of damage to both the robot and objects, and ensuring accurate task completion.
Implementation Method 1
the indicia can reflect UV light, while the image sensor of the robot can be capable of detecting such UV light
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method comprises marking or identifying an object to be perceptible to robot, while being invisible or substantially invisible to humans. Such marking can facilitate interaction and navigation by the robot, and can create a machine or robot navigable environment for the robot. The machine readable indicia can comprise symbols that can be perceived and interpreted by the robot. The robot can utilize a camera with an image sensor to see the indicia. In addition, the indicia can be invisible or substantially invisible to the unaided human eye so that such indicia does not create an unpleasant environment for humans, and remains aesthetically pleasing to humans. For example, the indicia can reflect UV light, while the image sensor of the robot can be capable of detecting such UV light. Thus, the indicia can be perceived by the robot, while not interfering with the aesthetics of the environment.