Operation-Based Map Generation for Smooth Autonomous Robot Navigation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing map data generation systems for autonomous mobile robots do not adequately consider the specifications of movable apparatuses and the features of spaces they operate in, leading to inefficient operation.

Innovation Solution

A map data generation device that receives operation data from autonomous movable apparatuses and generates map data tailored to their specific operations, using sensors like LIDAR and stereo cameras to create detailed, accurate maps that adjust in real-time based on performance metrics and user evaluations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If generic map data is provided without considering movable apparatus specifications and space features, then map generation is simple and quick, but the map does not contribute to smooth operation of the movable apparatus

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational smoothnessVSAvoidmap generation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by generating map data with different levels of detail and characteristics for different regions of the space. High-accuracy maps are generated for areas where the movable apparatus frequently operates or encounters difficulties, while lower-detail maps are provided for less critical areas. This resolves the contradiction by making the map generation process complex only where necessary to improve operational smoothness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamics by continuously updating and refining map data based on operation data fed back from the movable apparatus. The map generation system adapts to changing operational conditions, space features, and apparatus specifications over time. This dynamic approach improves operational reliability progressively without requiring complete re-generation of maps, thus managing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If detailed operation data is collected and processed to generate customized map data, then map accuracy and adaptability improve, but data processing time and computational resources increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemap adaptabilityVSAvoiddata processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by selectively processing only the most relevant operation data for map generation. Instead of analyzing all possible operational parameters, the system focuses on key data points that have the greatest impact on map accuracy and adaptability, such as positional information, operational difficulties encountered, and space feature observations. This reduces data processing time while maintaining adequate adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where operation data from the movable apparatus is continuously fed back to the map generation system. This feedback loop allows the system to progressively refine map data based on actual operational experiences. The feedback approach enables incremental improvements in adaptability over time without requiring intensive batch processing, thus managing time consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If real-time map updates are performed based on operation data, then operational efficiency improves, but system complexity and computational load increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies periodic action by updating map data at predetermined intervals or after accumulating a certain amount of operation data, rather than continuously in real-time. This periodic update mechanism maintains operational efficiency by providing timely map improvements while avoiding the excessive computational load and system complexity that would result from continuous real-time processing. The periodic updates occur at optimal moments based on operational cycles or data accumulation thresholds.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS20240160215A1Map data generation device, movable apparatus management device, storage medium, map data generation method, and movable apparatus management method
Publication Date: 2024.05.16 CANON KK
  • US20240160215A1 patent drawing
  • US20240160215A1 patent drawing
  • US20240160215A1 patent drawing

AI summary

In order to provide a map which can contribute to performance of smooth operation of a movable apparatus which autonomously moves to the movable apparatus, a map data generation device includes an operation data reception unit configured to receive operation data indicating results of a movable apparatus autonomously moving in a space and performing a predetermined operation, and a map data generation unit configured to generate map data which is used when the movable apparatus autonomously moves in the space and performs the predetermined operation on the basis of the operation data.