UWB Beacon Layout for Robotic Mower Boundary Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current robotic lawn mowers face challenges with satellite-based positioning systems, particularly in areas with obstructions like trees or bushes, where satellite signals are obstructed, and UWB beacon configurations can be difficult for users to set up effectively, leading to potential mower operation outside designated boundaries or navigation issues.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows users to define mowing area boundaries on a mobile device, using an optimization algorithm to identify optimal beacon configurations for UWB beacons, which are then guided into place using an augmented reality system, ensuring continuous navigation and boundary adherence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If satellite-based positioning systems are used for robotic lawn mowers, then navigation capability is provided, but positioning accuracy deteriorates in areas with obstructions like trees or bushes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces UWB beacons as intermediary objects that mediate between the robotic mower and the positioning system. These beacons are placed throughout the mowing area and serve as reference points for the mower's localization system, enabling accurate positioning even when satellite signals are blocked by trees or bushes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the mowing area into a network of interconnected beacon locations. Instead of relying on a single satellite-based positioning system, the area is segmented into multiple localized reference points (beacons) that work together to provide comprehensive coverage and accurate positioning throughout the entire mowing area.
2Reliability
If UWB beacon systems are used to define boundaries, then boundary definition capability is provided, but system complexity increases due to strategic beacon placement requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the system to automatically determine optimal beacon configurations and locations. The robotic mower or setup system autonomously calculates where beacons should be placed based on the mowing area geometry and requirements, eliminating the need for users to manually strategize beacon placement while still achieving reliable boundary definition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary calculation and planning of beacon configurations before actual deployment. The system pre-determines the optimal number, locations, and arrangement of beacons based on the mowing area characteristics, so that users simply need to follow guided instructions for placement rather than solving complex positioning problems.
3Reliability
If manual beacon placement is required for UWB systems, then boundary configuration is achieved, but user time and effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that guide users through the beacon placement process. The system provides real-time feedback to the user, indicating where the next beacon should be placed, whether previous beacons are correctly positioned, and adjusting the configuration as beacons are deployed, thereby streamlining the setup process and reducing user time investment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary calculations and generates a step-by-step placement guide before the user begins deploying beacons. This pre-planning includes determining the optimal sequence and locations for beacon placement, allowing users to simply follow instructions rather than making complex decisions during the setup process.
Data Source
AI summary
A user defines a boundary of a mowed area on an image of the mowed area, on a mobile device. An optimization algorithm operates on the bounded mowing area to identify a beacon configuration that identifies a location for each of a plurality of different beacons to be placed about the mowing area. The user can then be guided to the different beacon locations, in order to place a beacon at each of the different beacon locations, using an augmented reality system that provides user assistance on a camera view of the user's mobile device.