Robot Cleaner Camera Illumination Control for Multi-Mode Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional robot cleaners require multiple cameras for different traveling modes, increasing manufacturing costs and limiting functionality with fixed camera settings unable to capture the necessary images for various modes using a single camera.
Innovation Solution
A robot cleaner equipped with a single camera that adjusts its illumination settings dynamically to capture images suitable for multiple traveling modes, including SLAM and monitoring, by alternately changing between first and second illumination values to classify and execute different traveling modes based on detected illumination requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple cameras are provided for different traveling modes, then image quality for various functions is maintained, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling a single camera to perform multiple functions that previously required separate cameras. The camera captures images for both SLAM (simultaneous localization and mapping) and monitoring purposes by dynamically adjusting illumination settings based on the current traveling mode, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated cameras while maintaining functional reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the illumination settings of the camera based on the current traveling mode. The controller changes illumination parameters between first and second values depending on whether the cleaner is performing SLAM or monitoring, allowing a single camera to adapt to different functional requirements and capture suitable images for each mode
2Ease of manufacture
If a single camera is used with fixed illumination settings, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but the camera cannot capture images required for multiple traveling modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the camera's illumination settings dynamic rather than fixed. The controller continuously adjusts the illumination parameters based on the current traveling mode, allowing the single camera to adapt its characteristics in real-time to meet the specific requirements of different functions such as SLAM and monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies feedback by using the detected traveling mode information to control the camera's illumination settings. The controller receives feedback about the current mode (SLAM or monitoring) and automatically adjusts the camera parameters accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that ensures the camera captures appropriate images for the active function
Data Source
AI summary
A cleaner performing autonomous traveling includes a main body, a driving unit moving the main body, a camera capturing an image around the main body at every preset period, and a controller selecting at least one of a plurality of traveling modes and controlling the driving unit and the camera to perform the selected traveling mode, wherein the controller changes a set value related to illumination of the camera while the camera is continuously capturing images.