Autonomous Mobile Platform with 3D Imaging for Low-Cost Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic systems are constrained to a narrow set of operations, are costly due to complex navigation systems like radar or LIDAR, and lack flexibility for various applications, necessitating a cost-effective, versatile autonomous mobile platform with efficient 3-D environment sensing.
Innovation Solution
A base unit equipped with time-of-flight sensors, brushless DC motors, and interchangeable attachments for diverse functionalities, including 3-D imaging, navigation, and computing capabilities, allowing for flexible extension and integration of additional structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If radar or LIDAR navigation systems are used, then navigation capability is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, complex radar or LIDAR systems with a more economical approach using multiple low-cost time-of-flight sensors. Each sensor is relatively simple and inexpensive, but collectively they provide comprehensive 3-D environmental mapping capability, resolving the contradiction between navigation reliability and system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The time-of-flight sensors serve multiple functions: they provide both navigation data and 3-D environmental imaging data. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining navigation capability
2Reliability
If specialized robotic systems are designed for specific operations, then operational reliability is improved, but adaptability to different applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal robotic platform with a standardized base unit that can perform multiple operations. The base unit is designed with generic capabilities (mobility, 3-D imaging, navigation) that can be applied across different service applications, while specific functions are added through interchangeable attachments, thus achieving both reliability and versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system is divided into a standardized base unit and separate functional attachments. The base unit provides core capabilities that remain consistent across applications, ensuring reliability, while the detachable attachments allow the system to be reconfigured for different tasks, providing adaptability
3Ease of manufacture
If a standardized base unit is used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but capability extension requires additional attachments
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized base unit is designed with universal interfaces and mounting mechanisms that accommodate various attachments. This allows the core platform to be mass-produced at low cost while maintaining the ability to extend capabilities through modular additions, resolving the contradiction between ease of manufacture and adaptability
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 solution provides a cost-effective, versatile autonomous mobile platform capable of navigating and executing various tasks with efficient 3-D environment sensing, supporting applications such as beverage vending, package delivery, and telepresence.
Implementation Method 1
two or more time-of-flight sensors, each comprising a modulated light source and a detector synchronized for phased detection of the modulated light that has originated from the modulated light sources and is reflected or scattered off remote objects
Implementation Method 2
modulated light that has originated from the modulated light sources and is reflected or scattered off remote objects
Implementation Method 3
brushless DC motors
Data Source
AI summary
An autonomous system having mobility, navigation, power, and general purpose computing. In some embodiments, the system comprises a base unit capable of sensing its environment and computing navigation instructions to direct the system to move to particular locations and execute functions as directed by a set of programmed instructions. In some embodiments, two or more sensors, such as 3-D cameras, with a field of view larger than 180° are attached to measure distance to objects in the environment. Cameras may also be used to recognize objects in the environment, and may also be used by the navigation system. In some embodiments, a coupling exists on the base unit to attach additional structures and mechanisms. These structures may be elements such as a means for carrying packages or other items, robotic manipulators to grab and move objects, interactive audio and video displays, or devices for serving food and drink.