Mowing Robot GPS Layout for Precise Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lawn mower positioning systems face reduced precision due to the restricted installation position of the GPS module, which affects signal reliability between the base station and the mower main body, especially when the mower is in motion.

Innovation Solution

The system consists of independently set base and charging stations, with the base station equipped with a detachable GPS antenna on a stake and a solar-powered microcontroller, allowing flexible placement for better signal quality and stability, and a control unit in the mower that determines positioning coordinates using signals from both GPS antennas.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the first GPS module is installed on the charging device, then the installation position is fixed and simple, but the signal reliability is easily affected by the moving lawn mower main body, resulting in reduced positioning precision

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidsignal reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the GPS positioning function into two independent parts: a first GPS module in the stationary base station and a second GPS module in the moving lawn mower. This segmentation allows each GPS module to operate independently, with the base station's GPS providing a stable reference point that is not affected by the mower's movement, thereby improving both signal reliability and positioning precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base station acts as an intermediary between the satellite GPS signals and the lawn mower. The first GPS module in the base station receives GPS signals independently from the moving mower, processes them to determine positioning information, and communicates this data to the mower. This intermediary role isolates the mower from direct GPS signal interference caused by its own movement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If the base station and charging station are integrated, then the device complexity is reduced, but the installation position is restricted by the surrounding environment and charging station, affecting signal quality

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal qualityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system separates the base station (containing the first GPS module) from the charging station, allowing the base station to be positioned independently in locations with optimal GPS signal reception. This segmentation enables the GPS function to be decoupled from charging infrastructure constraints, improving signal quality without significantly increasing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base station is designed as a multi-functional unit that can perform both GPS positioning and communication functions. By integrating these functions into a single independent station, the system achieves versatile operation without requiring separate dedicated structures for each function, thereby managing complexity efficiently

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

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

This configuration enhances positioning precision by allowing the base station to be placed in optimal signal reception areas, reducing environmental restrictions and improving signal reliability, thereby improving the mower's positioning accuracy.

Implementation Method 1

receive a first GPS signal obtained by the first GPS antenna and a second GPS signal obtained by the second GPS antenna and determine a positioning coordinate of the mower robot according to the first GPS signal and the second GPS signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGPS signal reception:

Implementation Method 2

the power supply unit is a solar power unit, including a solar panel exposed outside and a storage battery electrically connected with the solar panel and the microcontroller

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSolar energy conversion: Photovoltaic Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20240373781A1Mowing system capable of enhancing positioning precision
Publication Date: 2024.11.14 DURQ MACHINERY
  • US20240373781A1 patent drawing
  • US20240373781A1 patent drawing
  • US20240373781A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A mowing system includes a charging station, a base station, and a mowing robot. The base station and the charging station are set independently from each other. The base station has a first communication unit and a first GPS antenna. The mowing robot has a second GPS antenna and a control unit electrically connected with the second GPS antenna and wirelessly connected with the first GPS antenna, such that the control unit receives a first GPS signal obtained by the first GPS antenna and a second GPS signal obtained by the second GPS antenna and determines a positioning coordinate of the mower robot according to the first GPS signal and the second GPS signal. As such, the installation position of the base station is not restricted by the surrounding environment or the charging station so as to enhance positioning precision.