Detecting robot stasis
US8417383B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 31, 2007 |
| Grant date | Apr 9, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 7, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA47L2201/04
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A coverage robot includes a drive configured to maneuver the robot as directed by a controller, a stasis indication wheel rotatable about a first axis perpendicular to a direction of forward travel, and a suspension supporting the wheel. The stasis indication wheel defines a first reflective portion and a second reflective portion. The second reflective portion is substantially less reflective than the first reflective portion. The suspension permits movement of the wheel in a direction other than rotation about the first axis. A signal emitter is disposed remotely from the wheel and positioned to direct a signal that sequentially is intercepted by the first and second reflective portions of the wheel. A signal receiver is positioned to receive the reflected signal by the rotating wheel. Communication between the emitter and the receiver is affected by rolling transitions between the first and second reflective portions during permitted movement of the wheel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.