Mobile Robot Safety Sensor for Dynamic Carrying Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile robot systems face inefficiencies in configuring safety zones that are either too large or inflexible, leading to unnecessary limitations and performance degradation when carrying objects of varying sizes and shapes.
Innovation Solution
A safety sensor system that dynamically configures safety zones based on the actual dimensions, type, and shape of the object being carried, ensuring optimal and adaptable safety without unnecessary restrictions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed safety zones are configured for mobile robots, then safety is ensured, but maneuverability and flexibility deteriorate when carrying objects of varying sizes and shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic safety zones that automatically adjust their boundaries and parameters based on the real-time dimensions, shape, and characteristics of the object being carried. The safety zone configuration changes dynamically as the robot picks up, carries, or drops different objects, resolving the contradiction between maintaining fixed safety standards and adapting to variable object characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system modifies safety zone parameters (such as zone radius, boundary distance, and detection sensitivity) based on the measured attributes of the carried object. When the robot carries a larger or more irregularly shaped object, the safety zone parameters are automatically adjusted to accommodate these changes while maintaining appropriate safety margins.
2Reliability
If fixed safety zones are configured for mobile robots, then safety standards are met, but performance and productivity deteriorate due to unnecessary limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic safety zone system allows the robot to operate with optimized safety margins that match the actual object being carried. Instead of being constrained by the worst-case scenario for all operations, the robot can move more efficiently when carrying smaller or more compact objects, thereby improving productivity while still meeting safety requirements for each specific situation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically determines appropriate safety zones based on object detection and classification, eliminating the need for manual safety zone configuration for each object type. The robot autonomously adjusts its operational parameters and safety boundaries, improving both safety compliance and operational efficiency without requiring external intervention.
Data Source
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AI summary
For example, a processor of a mobile robot, e.g., a processor implemented by a safety sensor of the mobile robot, may configured to identify an intended object to be carried by the mobile robot. For example, the processor may be configured to determine whether the intended object is detected based, for example, on sensor information from at least one sensor of the mobile robot. For example, the processor may be configured to configure a safety zone for the mobile robot based on one or more attributes of the intended object, for example, based on a determination that the intended object is detected.