Single Receiver Localization and Obstacle Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for mobile devices to detect obstacles and determine location often require distinct and resource-intensive hardware and technologies, making them cumbersome and costly for integration into compact, affordable consumer goods.
Innovation Solution
A mobile device equipped with a single receiver capable of monitoring both localization and obstacle detection signals, using a combination of on-board and off-board signal sources, and employing a common processor to disambiguate signals and perform both functions efficiently, thereby reducing computational and hardware requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If distinct hardware systems are used for localization and obstacle detection, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines localization and obstacle detection functions into a single integrated system using one receiver that processes both types of signals. The receiver distinguishes between localization signals (from stationary sources) and obstacle detection signals (from on-board sources) through signal processing techniques, eliminating the need for separate hardware systems while maintaining functional reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The receiver is designed as a universal device capable of performing multiple functions: detecting localization signals from off-board stationary sources and detecting obstacle detection signals from on-board sources. This multi-functional approach reduces hardware complexity while preserving the reliability needed for both localization and obstacle detection operations
2Measurement precision
If separate processors are used for localization and obstacle detection, then processing precision is improved, but computational resources and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the computational functions for localization and obstacle detection into a single processor. The processor receives combined signals from the receiver, separates localization signals from obstacle detection signals based on their characteristics, and processes both types of information sequentially or concurrently within the same computational unit, reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different processing modes based on the type of signal being received. The processor can focus on localization signal processing when localization signals are present, and switch to obstacle detection signal processing when those signals are detected, optimizing computational resource usage while maintaining precision for both functions
3Reliability
If multiple receivers are used for localization and obstacle detection, then detection reliability is improved, but hardware requirements and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The single receiver is designed to universally detect both localization signals from stationary off-board sources and obstacle detection signals from on-board sources. By making the receiver multi-functional rather than having separate receivers for each function, the system reduces hardware quantity while maintaining the reliability needed for both detection tasks through careful signal discrimination and processing
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 effective localization and obstacle detection using a single receiver, adapting to obstacle presence while minimizing resource usage, making it suitable for compact, affordable, and versatile applications in consumer goods.
Implementation Method 1
a receiver, such as one comprising one or more photo-detectors or other detector or sensor configured to detect signals from the signal source(s)
Implementation Method 2
the location of stationary localized reflections from external signal sources (such as lights) projected onto, for example, a ceiling or other surface (to create 'spots')
Data Source
AI summary
A localization and obstacle detection system includes a first signal projector configured to project a first signal into an environment and a robot configured to move in the environment. The robot includes a second signal projector configured to project a second signal into the environment; a signal receiver configured to receive the first signal and the second signal; a localizer configured to determine a location of the robot in the environment based at least in part on the received first signal; and a detector configured to determine the presence of an obstacle in the environment based at least in part on the intensity and bearing of the received second signal and without touching the obstacle; wherein the second signal is distinct from the first signal in at least one characteristic.