Depth Sensor State Detection for Lifted and Tilted Robots
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Solution Overview
Problem
Self-propelled robots, such as robot vacuums, face challenges in detecting and responding to uneven terrain, steep slopes, and being lifted or tampered with by children, leading to potential injuries and operational interruptions.
Innovation Solution
Equipping robots and mobile devices with depth sensors to determine their state (lifted, tilted, edge-bordering, or collision) and implementing response procedures such as changing motion, issuing warnings, or returning to a previous state based on sensor data, without the need for additional instruments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If obstacle detectors (infrared sensors) are used to detect obstacles, then the robot can prevent hitting obstacles, but the robot cannot detect lifted or tilted states causing it to stick or flip over
Solution Approach 1:
The depth sensor is designed to perform multiple detection functions: it can detect obstacles, determine lifted states, identify tilted states, and recognize edge-bordering states. This single sensor replaces the need for multiple specialized sensors, achieving multi-functionality while resolving the contradiction between obstacle detection reliability and state detection versatility
2Productivity
If the robot continues operation without state detection, then productivity is maintained, but safety risks increase when the robot is lifted or tilted by children
Solution Approach 1:
The depth sensor continuously monitors the robot's state during operation and detects lifted or tilted conditions before they can cause harm. By detecting these hazardous states in advance, the system can trigger warning signals or stop operation proactively, preventing injury to children while maintaining productivity during normal operation
3Measurement precision
If additional instruments are added to detect robot state, then detection accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The depth sensor achieves multiple detection functions (obstacle detection, lifted state detection, tilted state detection, edge-bordering detection) through a single instrument. By analyzing different aspects of the depth data from this one sensor, the system attains high measurement precision for various states without increasing device complexity with multiple specialized sensors
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
Effectively prevents injuries and operational disruptions by accurately detecting the device's state and triggering appropriate responses, ensuring safe operation and user awareness.
Implementation Method 1
a depth sensor on an inner side thereof. After a depth sensing signal is obtained, based on the numerical value of the signal, the mobile device is determined to be in a lifted state, a tilted state, or an edge-bordering state
Data Source
AI summary
A state detecting method applied to a mobile device includes: arranging a depth sensor at the bottom of the mobile device, obtaining a detection signal of the depth sensor, and determining if the mobile device is in a lifted state, a tilted state, or an edge-bordering state, based on the numerical value of the detection signal of the depth sensor. The lifted state is associated with the mobile device without contacting with a support surface. The tilted status is associated with one end of the mobile device contacting the support surface and the other end of the mobile device without contacting the support surface. The edge-bordering state is associated with the mobile device located at the edge of the support surface. Accordingly, when the mobile device is in any of the aforementioned states, an appropriate response can be implemented.