Lawn Mower Robot Radar Sensing for Reliable Grass Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current lawn mower robots equipped with video cameras for detecting grass efficiency are compromised by exposure to atmospheric and soiling agents, leading to reduced performance and potential damage from resistant surfaces, and are costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A lawn mower robot utilizing a radar sensor system for detecting grass presence, positioned inside a protective frame to emit and receive electromagnetic waves, which is robust against environmental factors and offers efficient detection with reduced size and production costs compared to traditional video camera systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If video cameras are used to detect grass presence, then detection accuracy is improved under ideal conditions, but reliability deteriorates due to exposure to atmospheric agents and soiling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the video camera-based optical detection system with a radar-based electromagnetic wave detection system. The radar sensor emits electromagnetic waves that penetrate through atmospheric agents and soiling without being affected by them, providing reliable grass detection regardless of environmental conditions. This substitution of detection mechanism fundamentally resolves the reliability issue while maintaining detection accuracy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If video cameras are exposed to acquire ground images, then grass detection capability is improved, but vulnerability to atmospheric agents and soiling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The radar-based system replaces the exposed video camera, using electromagnetic waves that can detect grass through the frame structure without requiring direct line-of-sight exposure. The radar sensor can be positioned inside the protective frame, eliminating the need for exposed optical components while maintaining grass detection capability.
3Productivity
If cutting means pass on resistant surfaces like paved areas, then complete area coverage is achieved, but damage to cutting means occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The radar system performs preliminary detection of the ground surface before the cutting means reaches it. By identifying paved areas, stones, or other resistant surfaces in advance, the system can modify the robot's trajectory to avoid these areas, preventing damage to the cutting means while still achieving comprehensive grass coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously receives feedback from the radar sensor about the upcoming ground surface conditions and uses this information to dynamically adjust the movement trajectories. This closed-loop control allows the robot to avoid resistant surfaces that could damage the cutting means while maintaining efficient lawn coverage.
4Measurement precision
If multiple passages are made in already treated lawn areas, then grass detection thoroughness is improved, but energy waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The radar system detects grass presence in advance before the cutting means arrives, allowing the robot to plan its trajectory to only pass through areas that actually require mowing. This prevents unnecessary multiple passages over already treated areas, reducing energy consumption while ensuring thorough grass detection and coverage where needed.
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
The radar sensor system ensures continuous and reliable grass detection, minimizing energy waste and damage, while optimizing maintenance efficiency by accurately identifying grass areas and adjusting movement trajectories.
Implementation Method 1
said detection system comprises a radar sensor configured for sending an electromagnetic wave and receiving a reflected electromagnetic wave
Data Source
AI summary
Described is a lawn mower robot comprising:a frame;cutting means configured for cutting grass, adjusting the height;movement means, associated with the frame for moving it along a working trajectory in a feed direction;a system for detecting the presence of grass in an area of ground along the working trajectory in the feed direction;a computerised command and control unit operatively associated with said cutting means, movement means and detection system;said detection system comprises a radar sensor configured for sending an electromagnetic wave towards the ground, receiving a reflected electromagnetic wave from the ground and transmitting a signal representing said reflected electromagnetic wave to the command and control unit.