Serving Robot Illumination Control for Food-Aware Presentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing serving robots fail to make food appear more appetizing by appropriately illuminating it based on the type or nature of the food, and do not dynamically adjust illumination according to changing surroundings during transport.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for a serving robot that acquires sensor data to identify serving objects and dynamically adjusts illumination properties based on the type of food and changing surroundings, using sensors and an illumination management unit to ensure optimal lighting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional serving robots use fixed illumination, then the device complexity is low, but the food presentation quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system transitions from a fixed state to a dynamic adjustable state. The patent implements controllable light sources that can dynamically adjust illumination intensity and color temperature based on the type of food being served, transforming the static illumination into a dynamic system that adapts to different serving scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters of illumination (intensity and color temperature) to optimize food presentation. By adjusting these physical parameters of light based on food characteristics, the system enhances visual appeal without requiring complex structural changes to the robot.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the serving robot uses static illumination settings, then the device complexity is low, but the adaptability to different environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system incorporates feedback mechanisms that allow it to sense environmental conditions and adjust accordingly. The robot can detect ambient lighting conditions and modify its illumination output to maintain optimal food presentation across varying environments, creating a closed-loop control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination system is designed to serve multiple functions: it can adapt to different food types, compensate for varying ambient lighting conditions, and maintain consistent presentation quality across diverse environments. This multi-functionality increases adaptability while managing system complexity through integrated control.
3Illumination intensity
If the robot adjusts illumination dynamically during travel, then the food presentation quality improves, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous adjustment, the illumination system employs periodic action by adjusting lighting parameters at key moments during the serving process. The robot maintains optimal illumination settings during critical phases such as food presentation and delivery, while reducing adjustment frequency during transit to conserve energy.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling a serving robot is provided. The method includes the steps of: acquiring first sensor data on at least one object placed on a support coupled to a serving robot, using at least one first sensor coupled to the serving robot; deciding whether the at least one object is a serving object on the basis of the first sensor data, and when the at least one object is decided to be a serving object, determining properties of illumination of the serving robot to be applied to the serving object on the basis of the first sensor data; and dynamically changing the properties of the illumination of the serving robot on the basis of information on surroundings acquired during travel of the serving robot.