Map Update Using Interference Signals for Robot Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing moving objects, such as conveyance robots, face challenges in accurately estimating their positions on a map due to environmental changes in spaces like factories, leading to incorrect operation, especially when relying solely on distance sensors and SLAM techniques.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that aggregates map generation and position estimation tasks using a server connected to multiple moving objects and overhead image sensors, employing SLAM and image processing to update maps in real-time, incorporating distance sensor and image information to improve position estimation accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If SLAM and distance sensors are used for position estimation, then autonomous movement can be achieved, but position estimation accuracy deteriorates when environmental layout changes occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces image sensors as an intermediary measurement device to complement distance sensors. The image sensor captures visual information about environmental features, which serves as a mediator to detect layout changes and update the map, thereby maintaining position estimation accuracy without compromising autonomous movement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously comparing current sensor data with the stored map and using image processing to detect changes. When environmental layout changes are detected through image analysis, the system feeds back this information to update the map and recalibrate position estimation, resolving the accuracy deterioration issue
2Measurement precision
If map updates are performed frequently to reflect environmental changes, then position estimation accuracy improves, but processing time and computational load increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-processing image data to extract key environmental features and their positions before actual map updates are needed. This preparation allows the system to quickly compare current images with stored maps and detect changes without requiring extensive real-time processing during critical operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by focusing map updates only in specific regions where changes are detected through image processing, rather than reprocessing the entire map. This selective update approach reduces computational load and processing time while maintaining accuracy in affected areas
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an information processing apparatus including an acquisition device configured to acquire, from a plurality of wireless devices, a strength of an interference signal different from communication signals of the wireless devices, and an environment update unit configured to update a map indicating an environment in a case where a change in the environment in which the wireless devices move is detected based on a temporal change in the strength of the interference signal.