IR Follower Robot Chain Control for Fast Position Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robot control systems using ultrasonic sensors for distance and direction measurement are limited by long Time Of Flight and high component costs, making them unsuitable for large robot chains in the toys market, while infrared systems provide better reaction time and performance but face interference issues.
Innovation Solution
A robot system utilizing infrared signals for relative distance and direction measurement between leader and follower robots, with synchronized modulated IR signals containing digital and analog information, allowing up to seven robots to follow each other without collision, and incorporating ID assignment and control algorithms to manage signal interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If ultrasonic sensors are used for distance and direction measurement, then measurement capability is provided, but Time Of Flight is long and component size is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces ultrasonic sensors with infrared sensors for distance and direction measurement. Infrared sensors use optical signals instead of acoustic waves, enabling faster signal transmission (speed of light vs. speed of sound) and reducing Time of Flight. The infrared components are also smaller in size compared to ultrasonic sensor assemblies, directly resolving the contradiction between measurement speed and device size.
2Quantity of substance
If more robots are added to the chain, then following capability is improved, but signal interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the communication signal into distinct segments: each robot is assigned a unique ID and transmits infrared signals with specific modulation patterns. The receiver can segment and filter signals based on ID, allowing multiple robots to communicate simultaneously without interference. This segmentation enables scaling to 7+ robots in the chain while maintaining reliable communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic signal transmission with time-division multiplexing. Robots transmit infrared signals at specific intervals and use synchronized modulation schemes, allowing the system to distinguish between signals from different robots in the chain. This periodic action with structured timing prevents signal overlap and interference even as the number of robots increases.
3Speed
If infrared system is used for positioning, then reaction time is improved, but signal interference occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where each robot continuously monitors infrared signals from other robots and adjusts its transmission timing and modulation based on received signal quality. The system uses acknowledgment signals and error detection/correction protocols to maintain reliable communication. This feedback loop enables the system to optimize performance and avoid interference while maintaining the fast reaction times provided by infrared signaling.
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 and cost-effective control of multiple robots following a leader, with improved reaction time and obstacle avoidance, achieving a reasonable cycle time for up to seven robots in a chain while maintaining effective communication and reducing component size and cost.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of infrared emitting diodes (IRED) for transmitting a modulated IR signal
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of infrared emitting diodes (IRED) for transmitting a modulated IR signal
Implementation Method 3
at least two IR receiving modules for receiving the modulated IR signal from another robot
Data Source
AI summary
A robot system has a follower robot and a leader robot. The follower robot follows the path of the leader robot using infrared (IR) signals. The follower robot follows the physical path and positioning of the leader robot. The leader robot is permitted to travel an arbitrary path or is controlled by a wireless transmitter. Relative robot positioning, being distance or direction can use an infrared system between respective robots.