Robot Cleaner Camera Control for Obstacle Sensing and Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional robot cleaners require separate cameras for obstacle sensing and position compensation, leading to complex construction and increased manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A camera control apparatus and method that uses a single camera mounted on the robot cleaner, capable of moving in two axis directions to perform both obstacle sensing and position compensation by rotating horizontally and vertically, with a control system to process images and control the camera's movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate cameras are used for obstacle sensing and position compensation, then sensing accuracy and position precision are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling a single camera to perform both obstacle sensing and position compensation functions. The camera is mounted on a rotating platform that can orient it toward different targets (obstacles in front of the robot or position markers on the ceiling/wall), allowing one device to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the camera movable through a rotating platform mechanism. The camera can dynamically change its orientation between horizontal (for obstacle detection) and vertical (for position marker detection), allowing the system to adapt its sensing function based on operational needs without requiring multiple fixed sensors.
2Measurement precision
If separate cameras are used for obstacle sensing and position compensation, then sensing accuracy and position precision are improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces manufacturing cost by consolidating two separate camera modules into one universal camera system. The single camera performs both obstacle sensing and position compensation, eliminating the need to manufacture, stock, and install multiple identical or similar components, thereby reducing overall system cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of obstacle sensing and position compensation into a single integrated camera system. By combining these previously separate functions into one device, the system reduces component count, simplifies assembly, and lowers manufacturing expenses while maintaining both sensing capabilities.
3Device complexity
If a single camera is used for both obstacle sensing and position compensation, then device complexity and manufacturing cost are reduced, but sensing capability and position detection accuracy may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating platform enables the single camera to dynamically switch between sensing modes. By mechanically orienting the camera horizontally, it captures obstacle information; by orienting it vertically, it detects position markers. This dynamic repositioning ensures that one camera can reliably perform both functions with adequate accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating platform acts as an intermediary mechanism that enables the single camera to access different sensing targets. This mediator allows the camera to be positioned optimally for each function (obstacle or position marker detection), maintaining sensing capability despite using only one camera.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are an apparatus and a method for controlling a camera mounted at a robot cleaner in order to sense obstacles and perform position compensation. The apparatus for controlling a camera of a robot cleaner includes a first axis driver for driving a camera mounted at the robot cleaner in a first axis direction; a second axis driver 320 for driving the camera in a second axis direction other than the first axis direction; an image processor 330 for receiving and processing an image photographed by the camera; and a control section 340 for controlling the first axis driver and the second axis driver, and controlling a traveling of the robot cleaner based on the image photographed by the camera.