Line Laser Module for Obstacle Distance and Type Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing autonomous mobile devices, such as cleaning robots, face challenges in accurately identifying and avoiding obstacles due to low accuracy in obstacle detection during their cleaning operations.

Innovation Solution

A line laser module is introduced, comprising a first image capturing assembly with an infrared camera and laser emitter for capturing obstacle distance information and a second image capturing assembly with an RGB camera for acquiring obstacle type information, using feature extraction and identification models to enhance obstacle detection and avoidance capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If existing autonomous mobile devices use simple obstacle detection methods, then the device complexity is low, but the obstacle identification accuracy is low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveobstacle identification accuracyVSAvoiddetection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The detection system is segmented into two specialized subsystems: a first image capturing assembly with laser emitter and infrared camera for distance measurement, and a second image capturing assembly with RGB camera for obstacle type identification. This segmentation allows each subsystem to optimize for its specific function, improving overall measurement precision while managing complexity through functional decomposition

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The module body integrates multiple functions into a unified structure that houses both the first and second image capturing assemblies, the processing module, and the positioning device. This multi-functional integration improves obstacle identification accuracy by combining distance measurement and type recognition capabilities in a single coordinated system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If the autonomous mobile device uses basic detection methods, then the device complexity is low, but the obstacle avoidance accuracy is low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveobstacle avoidance accuracyVSAvoidnavigation system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The processing module receives images from both capturing assemblies, processes the data to determine obstacle distance and type, and provides this information to the positioning device for docking. This feedback loop enables the system to continuously adjust navigation decisions based on accurate real-time obstacle information, significantly improving obstacle avoidance reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The processing module acts as an intermediary that receives raw image data from both capturing assemblies, processes this information to extract meaningful obstacle characteristics, and transmits the processed data to the positioning device. This intermediary function coordinates the complex interaction between multiple sensors and the navigation system, improving overall system reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 line laser module significantly improves the accuracy of obstacle detection and avoidance by providing precise distance and type information, enabling the autonomous mobile device to navigate effectively and adjust its cleaning route accordingly.

Implementation Method 1

at least one laser emitter provided adjacent to the first camera and configured to emit a line laser with a linear projection toward outside of the module body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

the first image processing module is configured to acquire obstacle distance information based on the first environment image... the first image processing module acquires the obstacle distance information based on a triangulation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTriangulation:

Implementation Method 3

the laser emitter is configured to emit infrared light, the first camera is an infrared camera... a first filter provided at a side of the first camera away from the module body and configured to allow only the infrared light to enter the first camera

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInfrared radiation: Infrared Radiation

Implementation Method 4

the second camera is an RGB camera... a second filter provided at a side of the second camera away from the module body and configured to allow only the visible light to enter the second camera

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVisible light: Light

Data Source

PatentUS11966233B2Line laser module and autonomous mobile device
Publication Date: 2024.04.23 BEIJING ROCKROBO TECH CO LTD
  • US11966233B2 patent drawing
  • US11966233B2 patent drawing
  • US11966233B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A line laser module, including: a module body; a first image capturing assembly, provided at the module body and comprising a first camera, at least one laser emitter and a first image processing module, wherein the at least one laser emitter is provided adjacent to the first camera and configured to emit a line laser with a linear projection toward outside of the module body, the first camera is configured to capture a first environment image containing the line laser, and the first image processing module is configured to acquire obstacle distance information based on the first environment image; and a second image capturing assembly, comprising a second camera and a second image processing module, wherein the second camera is configured to capture a second environment image, and the second image processing module is configured to acquire obstacle type information based on the second environment image.