Robot Recharging Alignment Using Critical-Point Signal Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automatic recharging systems for robots face challenges in accurately aligning the signal receiver with the recharging dock due to the diffuse nature of optical signals, making it difficult for robots to determine the precise position for recharging.
Innovation Solution
A recharging alignment method that involves adjusting the signal receiver to critical points to obtain position information, calculating the mid-point between these points, and rotating the receiver to align with the recharging dock without moving, using a combination of clockwise and counterclockwise rotations to determine the optimal alignment angle and distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optical signals are emitted in a form of rays to cover a certain range, then the robot can receive the signals within a certain range, but the signal receiver cannot accurately align with the recharging dock
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the alignment process into multiple discrete steps: first adjusting the signal receiver to a first critical point to obtain position information, then adjusting to a second critical point, and finally calculating the mid-point. This segmentation of the alignment process allows for more precise positioning by breaking down the continuous alignment task into manageable discrete steps, resolving the contradiction between reliable signal reception and precise alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces angular positioning as an additional dimension for alignment. By adjusting the signal receiver to specific critical points and calculating mid-points based on angular positions, the system adds a rotational dimension to the alignment process. This enables precise alignment determination beyond simple radial positioning, resolving the contradiction between signal coverage and alignment precision.
2Extent of automation
If the robot uses automatic navigation to return to the recharging dock, then the recharging process can be automated, but the alignment accuracy is compromised due to signal diffusion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the signal receiver detects optical signals from the recharging dock, determines whether alignment is achieved based on signal characteristics, and adjusts the robot's position and orientation accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system maintains automation while improving alignment precision by continuously monitoring and correcting the alignment status.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces purely mechanical navigation with an optical sensing and control system. By using the signal receiver to detect optical signals and determine alignment, the system substitutes mechanical positioning with optical field-based positioning, enabling automated recharging with higher precision through non-contact optical measurement.
3Measurement precision
If the signal receiver is adjusted to critical points to obtain position information, then the alignment accuracy is improved, but the recharging process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the robot to autonomously perform the alignment process by automatically adjusting the signal receiver to critical points, obtaining position information, and calculating the mid-point without human intervention. The system uses its own signal receiver and processing capabilities to complete the alignment task, reducing the need for external assistance or complex manual procedures despite the increased precision requirements.
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 method enhances the accuracy of robot alignment with the recharging dock, allowing for efficient and precise automatic recharging without the need for extensive movement, thereby simplifying the recharging process.
Implementation Method 1
a signal receiver is configured to receive optical signals emitted from a recharging dock of the first critical point
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a recharging alignment method of a robot and a robot thereof. The recharging alignment method includes adjusting a signal receiver of the robot to a first critical point to obtain position information of the first critical point, adjusting the signal receiver from the first critical point to a second critical point to obtain position information of the second critical point, determining a mid-point of the first critical point arid the second critical point according to the position information of the first critical point and the second critical point, and adjusting the signal receiver to the mid-point to align with the recharging dock, so as to accurately align with the recharging dock.


