Robotic Work Tool Boundary Mapping for Safe Zone-Based Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of defining boundaries for robotic work tools, such as lawnmowers, in operational areas with irregular surfaces and features makes existing methods time-consuming and difficult for average users to manage, especially since advanced technologies are often limited to the installation phase.
Innovation Solution
A method using a server and a robotic work tool equipped with satellite navigation sensors to receive and store safety and zone boundaries, with confirmation of safety boundaries on location prior to operation, allowing for simplified boundary definition and efficient navigation within operational areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional boundary definition methods are used for robotic work tools, then the operational area can be defined, but the process becomes complicated and time-consuming for users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces boundary objects (physical markers or GPS coordinates) as intermediaries to define the operational area boundaries. Instead of directly programming complex boundary definitions, the system uses these intermediary markers that the robotic work tool can detect and use to establish its working boundaries, significantly simplifying the setup process for users
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital map or virtual representation of the operational area based on the physical boundary markers. This copied digital model allows the robotic work tool to navigate and operate within defined boundaries without requiring users to manually program each boundary point, reducing setup time while maintaining precision
2Ease of operation
If advanced technologies are employed to simplify boundary definition, then user familiarity is reduced, but the complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic work tool automatically detects and processes boundary markers using its onboard sensors (GPS, cameras, or other detection devices). The system performs self-calibration and self-mapping by autonomously navigating to boundary markers and recording their positions, eliminating the need for users to manually configure complex technical parameters while maintaining simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
Boundary markers are pre-placed in the operational area before the robotic work tool begins operation. The physical infrastructure (markers, GPS coordinates, or boundary indicators) is prepared in advance, allowing the robot to simply follow pre-established boundaries without requiring complex real-time decision-making or user intervention during operation
3Reliability
If safety boundaries are strictly enforced, then operational safety is improved, but the operational flexibility of the robotic work tool is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The operational area is divided into multiple zones with different safety levels and access permissions. The system segments the workspace into restricted areas (with safety boundaries that cannot be crossed), semi-restricted areas (requiring authorization), and free areas (fully accessible). This segmentation allows the robotic work tool to operate flexibly within permitted zones while maintaining strict safety enforcement at critical boundaries
Solution Approach 2:
The boundary system is designed to be dynamic rather than static. Safety boundaries can be temporarily adjusted or suspended based on operational needs, weather conditions, or user input. The system allows for dynamic reconfiguration of operational zones while maintaining core safety constraints, enabling flexibility without compromising essential safety 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 approach simplifies the definition and confirmation of boundaries, enabling robotic work tools to operate safely and efficiently in complex environments without requiring extensive user expertise or advanced technical knowledge during the installation phase.
Implementation Method 1
a robotic work tool arranged to operate in an operational area based on a satellite navigation sensor
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A
Figure 3B
AI summary
A method for use in a robotic work tool system (200) comprising a server (240) and a robotic work tool (100) arranged to operate in an operational area (205) based on a satellite navigation sensor (175), wherein the method comprises: receiving (410) one or more safety boundaries (220, 220-1, 220-2) and storing these in a safety map (120A-1) of the operational area (205), receiving (420) one or more zone boundaries (220-3, 220-4, 220-5, 220-6) and storing these in a zone map (120A-2) of the operational area (205), and operating (440) according to the one or more zone boundaries (220-3, 220-4, 220-5, 220-6) and the one or more safety boundaries (220, 220-1, 220-2), wherein the one or more zone boundaries (220-3, 220-4, 220-5, 220-6) are related to an operating schedule and the one or more safety boundaries (220, 220-1, 220-2) are related to safety concerns for the robotic work tool (100) and wherein the method is characterized in that the one or more zone boundaries (220-3, 220-4, 220-5, 220-6) are received by the server (240) and in that the method further comprises confirming (430) the one or more safety boundaries (220, 220-1, 220-2) on location in the operational area (205) prior to operating (440) according to the one or more safety boundaries (220, 220-1, 220-2).