Carpet recognition method applicable to robot cleaner
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning robots struggle with low accuracy and poor recognition of carpeted surfaces, as conventional methods fail to differentiate between carpets and other flooring types effectively.
Innovation Solution
The method employs an ultrasonic sensor integrated with a sleeve to transmit and receive ultrasonic signals, utilizing diffuse reflection within the sleeve to distinguish carpet surfaces by comparing echo signal intensity with a standard echo signal, adjusted through intelligent learning based on actual sweeping conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional ultrasonic sensing methods are used for ground recognition, then the device structure remains simple, but the carpet recognition accuracy is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sleeve as an intermediary component between the ultrasonic sensor and the ground. The sleeve modifies the ultrasonic wave propagation path and creates a controlled acoustic environment, enabling the sensor to detect diffuse reflection characteristics that differentiate carpets from hard floors. This intermediary structure enhances measurement precision without requiring complex sensor arrays or processing systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the ultrasonic sensor directly detects ground reflection, then the sensing system remains simple, but it cannot effectively differentiate carpet surfaces from other flooring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes ultrasonic vibration waves to probe the ground surface characteristics. The sleeve structure guides these mechanical vibrations to interact with the ground, and the resulting echo patterns (particularly diffuse reflections from carpets versus specular reflections from hard floors) provide adaptable ground type differentiation. This approach achieves versatility without complex multi-sensor systems.
3Measurement precision
If standard echo signal thresholds are used for carpet detection, then the recognition process remains simple, but the accuracy varies under different sweeping conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the ultrasonic sensor continuously monitors echo signals during operation. The system compares received echo patterns against stored standard echo signals and adjusts recognition decisions based on the degree of match. This feedback loop enables accurate carpet detection across varying sweeping conditions while maintaining a relatively simple recognition process.
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
Enhances the accuracy and precision of carpet recognition by differentiating carpet surfaces from normal ground, allowing the robot to adapt its cleaning mode accordingly.
Implementation Method 1
controlling the ultrasonic sensor to transmit an ultrasonic signal to a current ground and to receive an echo signal reflected by the current ground
Implementation Method 2
the echo signal is capable of exhibiting diffuse reflection within the sleeve
Data Source
AI summary
A carpet recognition method for a robot cleaner and a robot cleaner are provided. The carpet recognition method is applied to a cleaning robot, the cleaning robot includes a sleeve and an ultrasonic sensor, and the recognition method includes: controlling the ultrasonic sensor to transmit an ultrasonic signal to a current ground and to receive an echo signal reflected by the current ground; recognizing the current ground as a carpet surface based on that an intensity of the echo signal is less than an intensity of a standard echo signal, wherein the echo signal is capable of exhibiting diffuse reflection within the sleeve.