Robotic Navigation Using Video Edge Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile robotic devices face challenges in location detection and navigation, particularly in determining their position relative to edges and surfaces, which affects their ability to efficiently operate in various environments.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a mobile robotic device with a processing unit and a video camera that communicates to receive information about edges and surfaces, allowing the device to adjust its position and navigate along paths parallel to detected edges or based on color values, using sensor data and map comparisons to optimize navigation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mobile robotic devices use traditional location detection methods, then the device structure remains simple, but the navigation accuracy and location detection capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical location detection sensors with a video camera-based visual detection system. The processing device analyzes video signals to detect edges and determine the robotic device's position relative to edges, substituting mechanical sensing with optical detection and computational analysis to improve location accuracy without significantly increasing physical device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a processing device as an intermediary between the video camera and the navigation control system. This intermediary component analyzes video signals to extract edge information and calculate position data, serving as a mediator that transforms raw visual data into actionable navigation information while maintaining system modularity
2Measurement precision
If mobile robotic devices use video camera for edge detection, then the navigation accuracy improves, but the processing complexity and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential edge information from the complete video signal by analyzing transitions between different surface types or colors. Instead of processing the entire video frame in detail, the system selectively detects edge characteristics and position data, reducing computational complexity while maintaining position determination accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary analysis of video signals to identify edges and calculate position information before using this data for navigation control. By pre-processing the visual data to extract relevant geometric and positional characteristics, the system reduces the computational burden on subsequent navigation decision-making processes
3Adaptability or versatility
If mobile robotic devices navigate without adaptive position adjustment, then the navigation system remains simple, but the ability to adapt to different environments and maintain optimal paths deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the processing device continuously monitors the robotic device's position relative to detected edges and adjusts navigation commands accordingly. The system uses real-time position information to modify movement instructions, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to environmental variations while maintaining coherent navigation toward the goal
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic navigation where the robotic device continuously adjusts its position and path based on real-time edge detection and position calculation. Instead of following a fixed pre-programmed path, the system dynamically modifies navigation parameters in response to detected environmental features, enabling adaptability to different surfaces and layout configurations
Data Source
AI summary
A method of navigating an area using a mobile robotic device may include receiving, from a video camera, information associated with an edge located on a surface, determining, by a mobile robotic device, a position of the mobile robotic device on the surface relative to the edge and using the received information to move the mobile robotic device from the determined position along a path. The path may be substantially parallel to the edge, and may be located a distance from a reference point on the mobile robotic device during movement of the mobile robotic device.