Mobile Robot Vision System with Reflective Illumination Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vision systems in mobile robots, such as vacuum cleaner robots, perform poorly in low-light conditions and often require additional illumination systems to function effectively, which can be inefficient and obstructive.
Innovation Solution
A vision system for mobile robots that includes a lens module, a directional illumination system with a reflective surface to direct light away from the lens module, and a heat sink to manage heat, allowing for improved illumination control and protection while maintaining an unobstructed field of view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an illumination system is added to improve vision system performance in low-light conditions, then image capture quality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system and vision system are merged into a single integrated housing structure. The housing contains both the lens module and illumination system within the same structural envelope, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining both functions
Solution Approach 2:
The housing serves multiple functions simultaneously: it protects both the lens module and illumination system, provides structural support, and directs light away from the lens. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate protective structures, thereby reducing device complexity
2Volume of moving object
If light sources are positioned close to the lens module for compact design, then device size is reduced, but light interference with the lens module occurs
Solution Approach 1:
A reflective surface is introduced as an intermediary element between the light sources and the lens module. This reflective surface redirects light away from the lens module, preventing direct light interference while allowing the compact positioning of light sources near the lens assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The light sources are positioned in a different spatial arrangement relative to the lens module, with the reflective surface creating a three-dimensional light path that directs illumination away from the optical axis. This dimensional arrangement prevents direct light interference while maintaining compactness
3Productivity
If light sources are positioned above the robot body for better illumination coverage, then illumination effectiveness is improved, but light sources become vulnerable to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The light sources are nested within the housing structure that protrudes above the robot body. This nested arrangement allows the light sources to be positioned in an elevated location for effective illumination coverage while being protected within the enclosed housing space
4Object-affected harmful factors
If the lens module holder is designed to block light from entering the lens, then light interference is prevented, but field of view may be obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The reflective surface is strategically positioned and shaped to provide selective light blocking. It reflects light away from the lens module in specific directions while leaving the optical path for the field of view unobstructed. The local geometry of the reflective surface creates different optical effects in different spatial zones
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 enhances the performance of mobile robots in low-light environments by providing efficient and controlled illumination, extending the life of light sources, and protecting both the illumination and lens modules, thereby improving navigation and image capture quality.
Implementation Method 1
The lens module holder is positioned around the lens module and comprises a reflective surface for reflecting light emitted from the illumination system away from the lens module
Implementation Method 2
The vision system mount may comprise a heat sink to draw heat away from the plurality of light sources. This may help to extend the life of the light sources by reducing the risk of them overheating, and also stops the heat from the light sources from potentially damaging the lens module
Data Source
AI summary
A vision system for a mobile robot, the vision system including: a lens module; an illumination system including a plurality of light sources; and a lens module holder. The lens module holder is positioned around the lens module and includes a reflective surface for reflecting light emitted from the illumination system away from the lens module.