Robotic Beacon Positioning for Wire-Free Mower Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic mowers face challenges in accurately determining the position of beacons for navigation, which can be complex and require precise setup, especially when boundary wires are used, and there is a need for a method to automatically determine beacon locations for efficient operation.
Innovation Solution
A robotic vehicle equipped with processing circuitry that performs a beacon position determination process using range information from beacons, allowing it to autonomously determine the position of beacons and utilize this information for navigation, even when beacons are initially of unknown location.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If boundary wires are used to define operating areas, then the robotic mower can navigate within defined areas, but the placement and setup becomes difficult and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical boundary wire system with an optical/beacon-based positioning system. The robotic mower uses sensors to detect beacons and determine its position relative to them, eliminating the need for physical wires and their complex placement requirements while maintaining reliable area definition and navigation capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces beacons as intermediary objects that facilitate communication between the robotic mower and the defined operating area. These beacons serve as reference points that the mower can detect and use for position determination, simplifying the system compared to direct wire-based boundary detection
2Measurement precision
If beacons are used for position determination, then navigation accuracy improves, but the determination process becomes complex and requires precise setup
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the robotic mower to automatically determine beacon positions using its own motion and sensor data without requiring external calibration or complex setup procedures. The system uses its measured movements and beacon detections to self-determine positions, eliminating the need for precise manual setup while maintaining high accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs beacon position determination as a preliminary step before normal operation begins. By automatically establishing beacon positions at the start, the system prepares the navigation framework in advance without requiring complex real-time calculations during operation, simplifying the overall process
3Loss of time
If automatic beacon position determination is implemented, then setup time is reduced, but the position determination process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic mower performs automatic beacon position determination using its own onboard sensors and motion measurement capabilities, eliminating the need for external setup equipment or manual configuration. This self-service approach significantly reduces setup time while the processing complexity is managed through efficient use of available sensor data and motion measurements
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
Enables the robotic vehicle to systematically traverse and maintain defined areas by accurately determining beacon positions, facilitating efficient navigation and operation without the need for complex setup procedures, allowing for real-time adaptation and reliable boundary detection.
Implementation Method 1
The autonomous vehicle utilizes time of flight as well angular information to determine its position
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for robotic discovery and use of beacons for navigation may include performing a beacon position determination process with respect to at least one beacon usable for range determination by a robotic vehicle responsive to initiation of operation of the robotic vehicle. The method may further include determining a position of the at least one beacon based on the position determination process, and employing the position of the at least one beacon as determined for position information determination of the robotic vehicle during continued operation of the robotic vehicle.