Robot Vacuum Cleaner UWB Pet Tracking for Precise Location Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current robot vacuum cleaners have limited capabilities in accurately tracking the location of pets, which hinders effective pet care services.
Innovation Solution
The integration of an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication module with multiple antennas in the robot vacuum cleaner allows for precise location tracking of pets by receiving UWB signals from devices mounted on the pets, enabling the robot to move to their periphery and monitor their location, behavior, and detect barking sounds for enhanced pet care services.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional tracking methods are used in robot vacuum cleaners, then the device complexity remains low, but the measurement precision of pet location is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a UWB tag as an intermediary device attached to the pet, which works in conjunction with the UWB communication module in the robot vacuum cleaner. This intermediary enables precise location tracking through time-of-flight measurements without requiring complex tracking algorithms or sensors in the robot itself, thus resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or optical tracking systems with a radio-frequency-based UWB communication system. This substitution enables accurate location measurement through electromagnetic signal propagation time, achieving high precision without the complexity of mechanical sensors or visual recognition systems
2Measurement precision
If UWB communication module with multiple antennas is integrated, then the pet location tracking precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the tracking system into two separate components: a simple UWB tag attached to the pet and a UWB communication module in the robot vacuum cleaner. This segmentation allows the robot to use multiple antennas for precise location calculation without making the entire system overly complex, as the tag remains a simple passive device
Solution Approach 2:
The UWB communication module serves multiple functions: it enables precise location tracking through time-of-flight measurements, provides communication capabilities, and can be integrated with the existing vacuum cleaning system. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering multiple benefits from a single integrated component
3Reliability
If the robot vacuum cleaner moves to monitor the pet continuously, then the pet monitoring capability is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the robot vacuum cleaner receives location information from the UWB tag and adjusts its behavior accordingly. The robot can monitor the pet's location in real-time and only move to the pet's periphery when necessary, rather than continuously pursuing the pet, thus maintaining reliable monitoring while reducing unnecessary energy consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by having the robot move to the pet's periphery rather than continuously following the pet. This partial monitoring approach provides sufficient pet care functionality while significantly reducing the energy consumption associated with constant movement and operation
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 provides accurate and efficient pet location tracking and monitoring, enhancing the value and convenience of smart home appliances by enabling better pet care and management.
Implementation Method 1
receiving by a plurality of ultra wideband (UWB) antennas, a UWB signal from a first UWB device
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling a robot vacuum cleaner includes receiving, by a plurality of ultra wideband (UWB) antennas, a UWB signal from a first UWB device; obtaining location information about a pet based on the UWB signal received by the plurality of UWB antennas; and monitoring the pet based on the location information about the pet. An apparatus is also provided.