Adjustable object avoidance proximity threshold of a robotic vehicle based on presence of detected payload(s)

US10720070B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• QUALCOMM Incorporated · US

Inventors

• Michael Franco Taveira · San Diego, US
• Daniel Warren Mellinger, III · Philadelphia, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 3, 2018
• Grant date: Jul 21, 2020
• Expiry date: Apr 30, 2038

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B64U2201/20
• WIPO field: Control
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Various embodiments include methods, devices, and robotic vehicles that adjust a proximity threshold implemented in a collision avoidance system based on whether a payload is being carried. Methods may include determining whether a payload is carried by the robotic vehicle, setting a proximity threshold for collision avoidance in response to determining that a payload is carried by the robotic vehicle, and controlling one or more motors of the robotic vehicle using the proximity threshold for collision avoidance. Some embodiments may include raising the proximity threshold when a payload is not being carried or decreasing proximity threshold when a payload is being carried. Some embodiments may include determining a classification of a payload and setting the proximity threshold based at least in part on the classification.