Mobile Robot Localization Signals for Collision Avoidance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Autonomous mobile robots lack the ability to determine which particular robot among a plurality of proximate robots is associated with a specific identification code and wireless message, leading to coordination challenges and increased risk of collisions and interference.

Innovation Solution

A system mounted on a robot that includes a wireless transmitter, a localization signal emitter, a receiver, and a processor to synchronize wireless messages with localization signals, allowing robots to determine the direction of other robots and associate identification codes with specific messages, enabling precise communication and cooperation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If robots use wireless messages for communication, then coordination capability is improved, but the ability to identify specific message sources among multiple robots deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoordination capabilityVSAvoidmessage source identification

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces localization signals as an intermediary mechanism that mediates between wireless message transmission and source identification. These signals carry spatial information that enables receiving robots to determine which robot sent which message, resolving the information loss problem while maintaining coordination capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adds a spatial dimension to the communication system by incorporating localization signals that provide directional and positional information. This extra dimension allows robots to identify message sources based on their spatial location, transforming the communication from purely wireless to spatially-aware

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If robots proceed independently without specific routing, then operational flexibility is improved, but collision risk increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational flexibilityVSAvoidcollision avoidance

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where robots continuously exchange localization signals and wireless messages about their positions and intentions. This feedback loop enables independent robots to awareness of their surroundings and adjust their paths to avoid collisions while maintaining operational flexibility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs preliminary action by having robots transmit localization signals and communication messages before actual movement or interaction. This allows other robots to anticipate positions and plan avoidance maneuvers in advance, preventing collisions before they occur

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If robots use markings for identification, then individual identification is improved, but detectability deteriorates due to obscuration

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveidentification accuracyVSAvoidmarking detectability

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical/visual identification markings with electromagnetic localization signals. These signals are not subject to physical obscuration by cargo or dust, providing reliable identification and localization regardless of the robot's external appearance or loading conditions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 solution enhances the ability of robots to communicate specifically and avoid collisions, improving their operational efficiency and effectiveness in tasks by accurately identifying and localizing nearby robots.

Implementation Method 1

a localization signal emitter configured to emit a first localization signal comprising pulsed energy synchronized with the first wireless message

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11458615B2Collision avoidance of mobile robots

Publication Date: 2022.10.04 THE MASSENGILL FAMILY TRUST

AI summary

Autonomous mobile robots may communicate with each other to avoid hazards, mitigate collisions, and facilitate the operation that they are intended for. To enhance such cooperation, it would be highly advantageous if each robot were able to determine which robot, among a plurality of other proximate robots, corresponds to each communication message. The specific identity of each robot is generally unknown to the other robots if a plurality of robots are in range. Systems and methods provided herein can enable robots and other equipped devices to determine the spatial location of each other robot in proximity, by detecting a pulsed localization signal emitted by each of the other robots. In addition, each robot can transmit a self-identifying code, synchronous with the emitted localization signal, so that other robots can associate the proper code with each robot. After such localization and identification, the robots can then cooperate more effectively in mitigating potential collisions.