Ejected Sensor Probe for Compact Robot 3D Observation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic systems face challenges in obtaining efficient 3D environmental mapping without increasing complexity or risk, as 3D mapping often requires complex moving parts or unsuitable solutions like drones or extendible arms, which are costly, fragile, or unsafe for indoor environments.
Innovation Solution
A robotic system equipped with a detachable probe containing sensors that is ejected from the robot to capture 3D environmental data, using a mechanism like an electromagnet and piston for launch and retrieval, allowing for 3D mapping with minimal additional hardware and reduced risk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If 3D mapping is implemented using complex moving parts, then the robot gains improved environmental understanding, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the 3D mapping function into two parts: a simple stationary base and a separable probe containing the depth sensor. The probe is launched independently to collect 3D data, then retrieved and reused. This segmentation allows complex sensing capabilities without permanently increasing the robot's structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe acts as an intermediary carrier that temporarily holds the depth sensor during 3D mapping operations. Instead of integrating the sensor permanently into the robot, the probe serves as a mobile platform that can be deployed and retrieved, providing 3D mapping capability on demand without permanent structural modification.
2Measurement precision
If drones or extendible arms are used for 3D mapping, then third-dimensional observation is achieved, but reliability and safety decrease due to fragility and unsuitability for indoor environments
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is designed as a simple, lightweight, disposable or easily replaceable component. Rather than using fragile expensive equipment like drones or complex extendible arms, the system employs a simple launched probe that can be affordably replaced if needed, significantly improving reliability for indoor robotic applications.
3Reliability
If the robot remains compact and stable without moving parts, then reliability is maintained, but 3D mapping capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static configuration to a dynamic one during operation. The base remains stationary and stable, but the probe becomes dynamic when launched and airborne. This temporal separation allows the robot to maintain stability when needed while acquiring 3D mapping capability when the probe is deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe is launched into the third dimension (airborne), allowing depth sensing from multiple heights and angles. This dimensional change enables comprehensive 3D environmental mapping without requiring the base robot to have complex moving parts or leave its stable platform position.
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 efficient 3D mapping by leveraging the third dimension while maintaining a compact and stable robot design, suitable for indoor environments, with reduced complexity and cost.
Implementation Method 1
using a mechanism like an electromagnet and piston for launch and retrieval
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A robot (20) includes a base (203, 204) and a detachable probe (205). The probe (205) includes at least one sensor of a least one type. Propulsion of the probe is provided by an ejection mechanism (204, 302) in the base. When the probe is ejected by the base, the probe captures data using its sensor(s) during its trajectory, according to an observation plan established by the base. The probe is recaptured by the base, probe data is transferred to the base, and the probe (205) is configured for a new observation.