Robot 3D Functional-Region Mapping for Obstacle Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Robots operating in dynamic environments like airports, schools, and offices face challenges in identifying functional regions within 3D spaces due to varying structures and temporary obstacles, which affects their ability to perform specific functions efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A robot equipped with a sensing module combining ultrasonic, infrared, and LiDAR sensors to create a 3D map of its environment, allowing it to differentiate between passable and non-passable areas, and adjust its operations accordingly, such as changing cleaning functions based on obstacle height and proximity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a robot uses a 2D map to navigate in a space, then the device complexity is low, but the robot cannot accurately identify functional regions in 3D space where structures are non-uniformly arranged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D map-based navigation to 3D spatial mapping by integrating multiple sensors (laser range finder, infrared sensor, ultrasonic sensor) that capture depth and height information. This dimensional expansion enables the robot to identify functional regions in 3D space, distinguish obstacle heights, and perform targeted functions in previously inaccessible areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple sensing technologies (laser, infrared, ultrasonic) into an integrated sensing system. This merging of sensors allows the robot to simultaneously capture various spatial parameters and process them together to identify functional regions, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity through synergistic integration.
2Productivity
If a robot performs a specific function in a large space, then the productivity is improved, but the robot requires 3D identification capability which increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the large space into multiple functional regions based on 3D spatial characteristics and obstacle configurations. By dividing the environment into identifiable zones with specific functions, the robot can efficiently navigate and perform targeted operations in each region, improving productivity without requiring the entire system to handle the full complexity of the large space at once.
Solution Approach 2:
The transition to 3D spatial identification enables the robot to perform functions in large spaces by adding vertical dimension awareness. This allows the robot to distinguish between passable and non-passable areas, identify functional zones beneath obstacles, and execute multiple functions simultaneously in different spatial layers, thereby improving productivity despite increased sensing system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a robot avoids all protruding structures, then the reliability is improved, but the robot cannot perform functions in regions where temporary structures are located
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating between various types of protruding structures and assigning different operational responses to each. Instead of uniformly avoiding all obstacles, the robot identifies specific characteristics (height, position, type) of each structure and determines whether to avoid, approach, or perform functions near them. This localized decision-making enhances adaptability while maintaining reliability through context-aware navigation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic navigation by continuously updating the robot's understanding of the environment and adjusting its behavior in real-time. The system dynamically switches between avoidance and approach modes based on the identified characteristics of protruding structures, enabling the robot to adapt to temporary structures and changing environmental conditions while maintaining operational safety through continuous sensor feedback.
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
Enhances the robot's ability to perform functions like cleaning by accurately identifying functional regions and adapting to obstacles, improving efficiency and safety in dynamic environments.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic sensor that senses a value corresponding to a distance to an object in front of the robot
Implementation Method 2
an infrared sensor that senses a value corresponding to a height of an object with respect to the robot
Implementation Method 3
A robot equipped with a sensing module combining ultrasonic, infrared, and LiDAR sensors to create a 3D map of its environment
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method of identifying a functional region in a 3-dimensional space and a robot implementing the method, and the robot comprises a sensing module that senses a protrusion located outside a robot and provides height and depth information of the sensed protrusion; a functional unit that provides a predetermined function to the outside; a moving unit that moves the robot; a map storage unit that stores a map required for movement of the robot; and a control unit that controls these components.