Robotic Cleaner Docking Station with Three-Signal Optical Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Robotic cleaners often face challenges in consistently aligning with docking stations for recharging, leading to inefficient battery recharge and debris evacuation due to overlapping navigation signals that may not be detectable by the cleaner.
Innovation Solution
A docking station design featuring at least three signal emitters that emit non-overlapping first and second signals, with a third signal extending between them, allowing the robotic cleaner to adjust its path based on detected signals and align properly with the docking station for charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two navigation signals are emitted with overlap to guide the robotic cleaner, then the cleaner can detect signals from multiple directions, but the alignment precision deteriorates causing inconsistent docking
Solution Approach 1:
The navigation signal system is segmented into three distinct signal sources positioned at different locations on the docking station. Each signal emitter projects a separate detection zone, allowing the robotic cleaner to determine its position relative to the dock by detecting which specific signals are visible. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by providing directional information without signal overlap confusion, enabling precise alignment while maintaining adaptability.
2Speed
If the detection zone for the third signal is extended to cover more area, then the robotic cleaner can detect the signal from farther distances, but the navigation accuracy deteriorates due to increased deviation from center line
Solution Approach 1:
Each signal emitter is configured with a specific detection zone width optimized for its location. The third signal emitter, positioned between the first and second emitters, has a detection zone that is narrower than it would be if independently covering maximum area. This local optimization ensures that while the combined detection zones of all three emitters provide extensive coverage, each individual zone maintains sufficient angular resolution for accurate navigation, preventing center line deviation.
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 design improves the alignment of robotic cleaners with docking stations, ensuring consistent docking and efficient recharging and debris evacuation by narrowing the detection zone for the third signal, reducing deviation from the center line and enhancing navigation accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
at least three optical emitters disposed within the housing. The at least three optical emitters may include a first optical emitter configured to generate a first optical signal within a first field of emission, a second optical emitter configured to generate a second optical signal within a second field of emission, and a third optical emitter configured to generate a third optical signal within a third field of emission
Data Source
AI summary
A docking station for a robotic cleaner may include a housing, at least one charging contact coupled to the housing, and at least three optical emitters disposed within the housing. The at least three optical emitters may include a first optical emitter configured to generate a first optical signal within a first field of emission, a second optical emitter configured to generate a second optical signal within a second field of emission, and a third optical emitter configured to generate a third optical signal within a third field of emission. The third optical emitter may be disposed between the first and second optical emitters. The first, second, and third optical signals may be different from each other. The third optical signal may be configured to guide a robotic cleaner in a direction of the housing.