Remote control scheduler and method for autonomous robotic device
First Claim
1. A method of cleaning a room using a robotic cleaning device, the method comprising:
- autonomously navigating the robotic cleaning device having a battery about a floor surface of the room;
transmitting a power level report from the robotic cleaning device to a mobile device;
automatically returning the robotic cleaning device to a docking station based on a power level of the robotic cleaning device;
transmitting a mission status report from the robotic cleaning device to the mobile device; and
transmitting from the robotic cleaning device an error report indicative of an error of at least one of a filter or a brush of the robotic cleaning device.
1 Assignment
Litigations
1 Petition

Accused Products

Abstract
A method of scheduling a robotic device enables the device to run autonomously based on previously loaded scheduling information. The method consists of a communication device, such as a hand-held remote device, that can directly control the robotic device, or load scheduling information into the robotic device such that it will carry out a defined task at the desired time without the need for further external control. The communication device can also be configured to load a scheduling application program into an existing robotic device, such that the robotic device can receive and implement scheduling information from a user.
204 Citations
No References
APPARATUS FOR SANITIZING ORAL APPLIANCES | ||
Patent #
US 20110020175A1
Filed 03/25/2009
|
Current Assignee
Robert Michael Skinner, Glen Sheldon Gerald Collard
|
Original Assignee
Robert Michael Skinner, Glen Sheldon Gerald Collard
|
Robot navigation system avoiding obstacles and setting areas as movable according to circular distance from points on surface of obstacles | ||
Patent #
US 7,873,448 B2
Filed 12/03/2003
|
Current Assignee
Honda Motor Company
|
Original Assignee
Honda Motor Company
|
Method and System for Multi-Mode Coverage For An Autonomous Robot | ||
Patent #
US 20100049365A1
Filed 10/30/2009
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
AUTONOMOUS FLOOR-CLEANING ROBOT | ||
Patent #
US 20100263158A1
Filed 06/28/2010
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
AUTONOMOUS FLOOR-CLEANING ROBOT | ||
Patent #
US 20100257691A1
Filed 06/28/2010
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
AUTONOMOUS FLOOR-CLEANING ROBOT | ||
Patent #
US 20100257690A1
Filed 06/28/2010
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
UTILITY OPTIMIZATION FOR SCALABLE VIDEO MULTICAST IN WIRELESS SYSTEMS | ||
Patent #
US 20100269142A1
Filed 01/29/2010
|
Current Assignee
NEC Laboratories America Inc
|
Original Assignee
NEC Laboratories America Inc
|
Robotic system for powering and interrogating sensors | ||
Patent #
US 7,860,680 B2
Filed 03/05/2003
|
Current Assignee
Lord Corporation
|
Original Assignee
MicroStrain Inc.
|
CELESTIAL NAVIGATION SYSTEM FOR AN AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE | ||
Patent #
US 20100082193A1
Filed 11/03/2009
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
REMOVING DEBRIS FROM CLEANING ROBOTS | ||
Patent #
US 20100011529A1
Filed 05/21/2007
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Celestial navigation system for an autonomous robot | ||
Patent #
US 7,706,917 B1
Filed 07/07/2005
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Robot docking station and robot for use therewith | ||
Patent #
US 7,729,801 B2
Filed 02/02/2005
|
Current Assignee
F Robotics Acquisitions Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
F Robotics Acquisitions Ltd.
|
Autonomous surface cleaning robot for wet and dry cleaning | ||
Patent #
US 7,761,954 B2
Filed 08/07/2007
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Cleaner system | ||
Patent #
US 7,779,504 B2
Filed 08/09/2006
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Robot vacuum with internal mapping system | ||
Patent #
US 7,805,220 B2
Filed 03/11/2004
|
Current Assignee
Sharper Image Acquisition LLC
|
Original Assignee
Sharper Image Acquisition LLC
|
Robot cleaning system and dust removing method of the same | ||
Patent #
US 7,849,555 B2
Filed 12/26/2006
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Robot cleaner, robot cleaning system and method of controlling same | ||
Patent #
US 7,480,958 B2
Filed 03/28/2003
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Robot cleaner system having robot cleaner and docking station | ||
Patent #
US 20090049640A1
Filed 04/30/2008
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Powering cell phones and similar devices using RF energy harvesting | ||
Patent #
US 20090102296A1
Filed 12/28/2007
|
Current Assignee
Powercast Corporation
|
Original Assignee
Powercast Corporation
|
Vehicle storage console | ||
Patent #
US 7,513,007 B2
Filed 02/23/2005
|
Current Assignee
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
|
Original Assignee
GM Global Technology Operations Incorporated
|
Autonomous floor-cleaning robot | ||
Patent #
US 7,571,511 B2
Filed 04/05/2004
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Autonomous floor cleaning robot | ||
Patent #
US 7,636,982 B2
Filed 08/10/2007
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Robot Confinement | ||
Patent #
US 20080039974A1
Filed 03/19/2007
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
CLEANING ROBOT ROLLER PROCESSING | ||
Patent #
US 20080052846A1
Filed 05/21/2007
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Lawn Care Robot | ||
Patent #
US 20080109126A1
Filed 03/19/2007
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
AUTONOMOUS SURFACE CLEANING ROBOT FOR WET AND DRY CLEANING | ||
Patent #
US 20080140255A1
Filed 08/07/2007
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Communication device and communication method network system and robot apparatus | ||
Patent #
US 7,388,879 B2
Filed 08/28/2001
|
Current Assignee
Sony Corporation
|
Original Assignee
Sony Corporation
|
Method and system for multi-mode coverage for an autonomous robot | ||
Patent #
US 7,388,343 B2
Filed 07/12/2007
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Autonomous surface cleaning robot for wet and dry cleaning | ||
Patent #
US 7,389,156 B2
Filed 08/19/2005
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
AUTONOMOUS SURFACE CLEANING ROBOT FOR WET AND DRY CLEANING | ||
Patent #
US 20080155768A1
Filed 08/07/2007
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Method for routing a robotic apparatus to a service station and robotic apparatus service system using thereof | ||
Patent #
US 20080161969A1
Filed 04/11/2007
|
Current Assignee
Industrial Technology Research Institute
|
Original Assignee
Industrial Technology Research Institute
|
Robot cleaning system | ||
Patent #
US 7,412,748 B2
Filed 08/02/2006
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Amplification Relay Device of Electromagnetic Wave and a Radio Electric Power Conversion Apparatus Using the Above Device | ||
Patent #
US 20080266748A1
Filed 07/29/2005
|
Current Assignee
Andong National University Industry Academic Cooperation Foundation, JC Protek Company Limited
|
Original Assignee
Andong National University Industry Academic Cooperation Foundation, JC Protek Company Limited
|
Autonomous floor cleaning robot | ||
Patent #
US 7,448,113 B2
Filed 08/06/2007
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
IROBERT
|
Autonomous Floor-Cleaning Robot | ||
Patent #
US 20080307590A1
Filed 08/29/2008
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Method and system for multi-mode coverage for an autonomous robot | ||
Patent #
US 7,173,391 B2
Filed 05/05/2004
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Method and system for robot localization and confinement | ||
Patent #
US 7,196,487 B2
Filed 09/08/2005
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Dust bin and filter for robotic vacuum cleaner | ||
Patent #
US 7,201,786 B2
Filed 12/19/2003
|
Current Assignee
Healthy Gain Investments Limited
|
Original Assignee
Hoover Company
|
Robot | ||
Patent #
US 7,218,994 B2
Filed 03/21/2005
|
Current Assignee
Fujitsu Limited
|
Original Assignee
Fujitsu Limited
|
Robot cleaning system | ||
Patent #
US 20070157420A1
Filed 08/02/2006
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Cleaner system | ||
Patent #
US 20070157415A1
Filed 08/09/2006
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Robot cleaning system and dust removing method of the same | ||
Patent #
US 20070245511A1
Filed 12/26/2006
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Robot cleaner system having robot cleaner and docking station | ||
Patent #
US 20070226949A1
Filed 01/16/2007
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Autonomous Floor Cleaning Robot | ||
Patent #
US 20070266508A1
Filed 08/10/2007
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Indoor map building apparatus, method, and medium for mobile robot | ||
Patent #
US 20070271011A1
Filed 03/09/2007
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Homing device | ||
Patent #
US 4,152,703 A
Filed 09/01/1976
|
Current Assignee
Dan-Mar Company
|
Original Assignee
Dan-Mar Company
|
Sentry robot system | ||
Patent #
US 7,054,716 B2
Filed 09/04/2003
|
Current Assignee
Royal Appliance Manufacturing Company
|
Original Assignee
Royal Appliance Manufacturing Company
|
Joystick controlled scrubber | ||
Patent #
US 7,041,029 B2
Filed 04/23/2004
|
Current Assignee
Nilfisk AS
|
Original Assignee
ALTO US Incorporated
|
Remote keyless entry transmitter fob with RF analyzer | ||
Patent #
US 7,042,342 B2
Filed 06/09/2004
|
Current Assignee
Lear Corporation
|
Original Assignee
Lear Corporation
|
Remote-controlled programming of a program-controlled device | ||
Patent #
US 20060220900A1
Filed 07/08/2004
|
Current Assignee
Robert Bosch GmbH
|
Original Assignee
Robert Bosch GmbH
|
Robot obstacle detection system | ||
Patent #
US 7,155,308 B2
Filed 06/03/2003
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Robotic floor care appliance with improved remote management | ||
Patent #
US 20060293788A1
Filed 06/26/2005
|
Current Assignee
Pavel Pogodin
|
Original Assignee
Pavel Pogodin
|
Method and system for remote control of mobile robot | ||
Patent #
US 6,845,297 B2
Filed 01/09/2003
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Robot vacuum with internal mapping system | ||
Patent #
US 20050000543A1
Filed 03/11/2004
|
Current Assignee
Sharper Image Acquisition LLC
|
Original Assignee
Sharper Image Acquisition LLC
|
Dust receptacle of robot cleaner and a method for removing dust collected therein | ||
Patent #
US 20050015920A1
Filed 07/12/2004
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Automatic charging system and method of robot cleaner | ||
Patent #
US 6,859,010 B2
Filed 06/23/2003
|
Current Assignee
LG Electronics Inc.
|
Original Assignee
LG Electronics Inc.
|
Robot cleaner, robot cleaning system and method for controlling the same | ||
Patent #
US 6,868,307 B2
Filed 02/20/2003
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Method and system for robot localization and confinement | ||
Patent #
US 20050067994A1
Filed 08/19/2004
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Nesting negotiation for self-mobile devices | ||
Patent #
US 20050113972A1
Filed 11/25/2003
|
Current Assignee
Daedalus Blue LLC
|
Original Assignee
International Business Machines Corporation
|
Dust bin and filter for robotic vacuum cleaner | ||
Patent #
US 20050132680A1
Filed 12/19/2003
|
Current Assignee
Healthy Gain Investments Limited
|
Original Assignee
Hoover Company
|
Method for operating a floor cleaning system, and floor cleaning system for use of the method | ||
Patent #
US 20050150519A1
Filed 01/04/2005
|
Current Assignee
Alfred KRcher GmbH Company KG
|
Original Assignee
Alfred KRcher GmbH Company KG
|
Self-propelling cleaner | ||
Patent #
US 20050183229A1
Filed 01/25/2005
|
Current Assignee
Funai Electric Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Funai Electric Co. Ltd.
|
Self-running cleaner with collision obviation capability | ||
Patent #
US 20050171637A1
Filed 01/28/2005
|
Current Assignee
Funai Electric Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Funai Electric Co. Ltd.
|
Autonomous mobile robot cleaner system | ||
Patent #
US 20050171636A1
Filed 01/28/2005
|
Current Assignee
Funai Electric Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Funai Electric Co. Ltd.
|
Dust detection method and apparatus for cleaning robot | ||
Patent #
US 20050192707A1
Filed 01/06/2005
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Robotic system | ||
Patent #
US 6,941,199 B1
Filed 07/16/1999
|
Current Assignee
Procter Gamble Company
|
Original Assignee
Procter Gamble Company
|
Device for automatically picking up objects | ||
Patent #
US 20050204717A1
Filed 03/11/2005
|
Current Assignee
Andre Colens
|
Original Assignee
Andre Colens
|
Autonomous vacuum cleaner and autonomous vacuum cleaner network system | ||
Patent #
US 20050204505A1
Filed 02/03/2005
|
Current Assignee
Funai Electric Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Funai Electric Co. Ltd.
|
Robot cleaner, system employing the same and method for re-connecting to external recharging device | ||
Patent #
US 6,957,712 B2
Filed 04/05/2002
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Method and system for robot localization and confinement | ||
Patent #
US 6,965,209 B2
Filed 08/19/2004
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Method and system for robot localization and confinement | ||
Patent #
US 6,690,134 B1
Filed 01/24/2002
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Robot obstacle detection system | ||
Patent #
US 20040020000A1
Filed 06/03/2003
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Autonomous floor-cleaning robot | ||
Patent #
US 20040049877A1
Filed 12/16/2002
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
System for detecting a flip-lid position of a personal electronic device | ||
Patent #
US 20040056651A1
Filed 09/19/2002
|
Current Assignee
Motorola Inc.
|
Original Assignee
Motorola Inc.
|
Bagless canister vacuum cleaner | ||
Patent #
US 6,712,868 B2
Filed 08/31/2001
|
Current Assignee
Royal Appliance Manufacturing Company
|
Original Assignee
Royal Appliance Manufacturing Company
|
Robot cleaner, robot cleaning system and method for controlling same | ||
Patent #
US 6,732,826 B2
Filed 04/04/2002
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Wheel support arrangement for an autonomous cleaning apparatus | ||
Patent #
US 20040143927A1
Filed 03/11/2004
|
Current Assignee
Aktiebolaget Electrolux
|
Original Assignee
Aktiebolaget Electrolux
|
Charging system for mobile robot, method for searching charging station, mobile robot, connector, and electrical connection structure | ||
Patent #
US 6,764,373 B1
Filed 10/27/2000
|
Current Assignee
Sony Corporation
|
Original Assignee
Sony Corporation
|
Method and system for robot localization and confinement | ||
Patent #
US 6,781,338 B2
Filed 10/29/2003
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Robotic lawnmower | ||
Patent #
US 20040187457A1
Filed 04/22/2004
|
Current Assignee
Andre Colens
|
Original Assignee
Andre Colens
|
Method and system for multi-mode coverage for an autonomous robot | ||
Patent #
US 20040207355A1
Filed 05/05/2004
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Method and system for multi-mode coverage for an autonomous robot | ||
Patent #
US 6,809,490 B2
Filed 06/12/2002
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Method and apparatus for generating and tracing cleaning trajectory of home cleaning robot | ||
Patent #
US 20040204804A1
Filed 04/08/2004
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Robot vacuum with particulate detector | ||
Patent #
US 20040211444A1
Filed 03/11/2004
|
Current Assignee
Sharper Image Corporation
|
Original Assignee
Sharper Image Corporation
|
Charging system for robot | ||
Patent #
US 20040201361A1
Filed 11/14/2003
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Method, apparatus and system for remote navigation of robotic devices | ||
Patent #
US 20040220707A1
Filed 05/02/2003
|
Current Assignee
Intel Corporation
|
Original Assignee
Intel Corporation
|
Robot vacuum with remote control mode | ||
Patent #
US 20040236468A1
Filed 03/11/2004
|
Current Assignee
Sharper Image Corporation
|
Original Assignee
Sharper Image Corporation
|
Self-propelled cleaning device and charger using the same | ||
Patent #
US 20040255425A1
Filed 03/04/2004
|
Current Assignee
Hitachi Home Life Solutions Incorporated, Hitachi America Limited
|
Original Assignee
Hitachi Home Life Solutions Incorporated, Hitachi America Limited
|
Floor working machine with a working implement mounted on a self-propelled vehicle for acting on floor | ||
Patent #
US 6,830,120 B1
Filed 07/01/1999
|
Current Assignee
Neutrogena Corporation
|
Original Assignee
PENGUIN WAX CO. LTD.
|
Robot capable of autonomous operation | ||
Patent #
US 20030009261A1
Filed 09/05/2002
|
Current Assignee
Sharper Image Corporation
|
Original Assignee
Sharper Image Corporation
|
Method and system for multi-mode coverage for an autonomous robot | ||
Patent #
US 20030025472A1
Filed 06/12/2002
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Mapped robot system | ||
Patent #
US 20030030398A1
Filed 08/13/2001
|
Current Assignee
Diversey Incorporated
|
Original Assignee
Axxon Robotics LLC
|
Thermostat and remote control system and method | ||
Patent #
US 20030034898A1
Filed 11/13/2001
|
Current Assignee
CHARLES G DEBORAH H. SHAMOON
|
Original Assignee
CHARLES G DEBORAH H. SHAMOON
|
Mobile robots and their control system | ||
Patent #
US 6,532,404 B2
Filed 03/01/2002
|
Current Assignee
Andr Colens
|
Original Assignee
Andr Colens
|
Method and system for remote control of mobile robot | ||
Patent #
US 6,535,793 B2
Filed 05/01/2001
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Graphical representation of a wafer processing process | ||
Patent #
US 20030090522A1
Filed 11/09/2001
|
Current Assignee
ASM International NV
|
Original Assignee
ASM International NV
|
Robotic vacuum cleaner | ||
Patent #
US 20030120389A1
Filed 02/07/2003
|
Current Assignee
F Robotics Acquisitions Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
F Robotics Acquisitions Ltd.
|
Mobile robot and method for controlling a mobile robot | ||
Patent #
US 6,584,376 B1
Filed 08/31/2000
|
Current Assignee
Swisscom AG
|
Original Assignee
Swisscom Italia Srl
|
Moving apparatus for efficiently moving on floor with obstacle | ||
Patent #
US 6,574,536 B1
Filed 01/27/1997
|
Current Assignee
Moneual Incorporated
|
Original Assignee
Minolta Corporation Limited
|
Robot obstacle detection system | ||
Patent #
US 6,594,844 B2
Filed 01/24/2001
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
System for wirelessly supplying a large number of actuators of a machine with electrical power | ||
Patent #
US 6,597,076 B2
Filed 12/11/2001
|
Current Assignee
ABB Patent GmbH
|
Original Assignee
ABB Patent GmbH
|
Area coverage with an autonomous robot | ||
Patent #
US 6,615,108 B1
Filed 04/13/2001
|
Current Assignee
F Robotics Acquisitions Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
F Robotics Acquisitions Ltd.
|
Robotic pick up and delivery system | ||
Patent #
US 20030165373A1
Filed 03/10/2003
|
Current Assignee
University of Virginia Patent Foundation
|
Original Assignee
Robin Felder, Randy Turner, William Holman, Chris Estey
|
Canister vacuum cleaner | ||
Patent #
US 6,615,446 B2
Filed 11/30/2001
|
Current Assignee
Allen Leonard Noreen, Mary Ellen Noreen
|
Original Assignee
Allen Leonard Noreen, Mary Ellen Noreen
|
Mobile robotic with web server and digital radio links | ||
Patent #
US 6,658,325 B2
Filed 01/14/2002
|
Current Assignee
Stephen Eliot Zweig
|
Original Assignee
Stephen Eliot Zweig
|
Agricultural harvester with robotic control | ||
Patent #
US 6,336,051 B1
Filed 08/28/2000
|
Current Assignee
Carnegie Mellon University
|
Original Assignee
Carnegie Mellon University
|
Method for operating a robot | ||
Patent #
US 6,339,735 B1
Filed 12/29/1998
|
Current Assignee
F Robotics Acquisitions Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Friendly Robotics Ltd
|
Robot obstacle detection system | ||
Patent #
US 20020016649A1
Filed 01/24/2001
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Semiautonomous flight director | ||
Patent #
US 20020030142A1
Filed 01/22/2001
|
Current Assignee
Terry Jack James
|
Original Assignee
Terry Jack James
|
Autonomous vehicle transit system | ||
Patent #
US 6,370,452 B1
Filed 12/08/1999
|
Current Assignee
Samuel T. Pfister
|
Original Assignee
Samuel T. Pfister
|
Service robot for the automatic suction of dust from floor surfaces | ||
Patent #
US 6,370,453 B2
Filed 01/31/2001
|
Current Assignee
TECHNISCHE FACHHOCHSCHULE BERLIN
|
Original Assignee
Volker Sommer
|
Mobile robots and their control system | ||
Patent #
US 6,389,329 B1
Filed 05/26/2000
|
Current Assignee
Solar Robotics SA
|
Original Assignee
Andre Colens
|
Mobile robot system using RF module | ||
Patent #
US 20020060542A1
Filed 06/12/2001
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Mobile robots and their control system | ||
Patent #
US 20020120364A1
Filed 03/01/2002
|
Current Assignee
Andre Colens
|
Original Assignee
Andre Colens
|
Controlled self operated vacuum cleaning system | ||
Patent #
US 20020124343A1
Filed 12/11/2001
|
Current Assignee
Robert J. Schaap
|
Original Assignee
Norman F. Reed
|
Multifunctional mobile appliance | ||
Patent #
US 20020156556A1
Filed 11/20/2001
|
Current Assignee
MC Robotics
|
Original Assignee
Bryan J. Ruffner
|
Remote-controlled vacuum cleaner | ||
Patent #
US 6,457,206 B1
Filed 10/20/2000
|
Current Assignee
Google LLC
|
Original Assignee
Scott H. Judson
|
Robot cleaner, system employing the same and method for re-connecting to external recharging device | ||
Patent #
US 20020153185A1
Filed 04/05/2002
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Home cleaning robot | ||
Patent #
US 6,459,955 B1
Filed 11/17/2000
|
Current Assignee
Procter Gamble Company
|
Original Assignee
Procter Gamble Company
|
Autonomous mobile surface treating apparatus | ||
Patent #
US 6,481,515 B1
Filed 05/30/2000
|
Current Assignee
Procter Gamble Company
|
Original Assignee
Procter Gamble Company
|
Autonomous multi-platform robot system | ||
Patent #
US 6,496,755 B2
Filed 03/08/2002
|
Current Assignee
Vision Robotics Corporation
|
Original Assignee
PERSONAL ROBOTICS INC.
|
MULTI-FUNCTIONAL ROBOT WITH REMOTE AND VIDEO SYSTEM | ||
Patent #
US 20020193908A1
Filed 06/14/2001
|
Current Assignee
Sharper Image Acquisition LLC
|
Original Assignee
Sharper Image Corporation
|
Mobile robot and course adjusting method thereof | ||
Patent #
US 6,496,754 B2
Filed 06/11/2001
|
Current Assignee
SANSUNG KWANGJU ELECTRONICS CO. LTD.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Information terminal with built-in fingerprint recognizer | ||
Patent #
US 20020180585A1
Filed 06/13/2002
|
Current Assignee
Nitgen Company Company Limited
|
Original Assignee
Nitgen Company Company Limited
|
Sensors arrangement | ||
Patent #
US 6,493,612 B1
Filed 06/18/2001
|
Current Assignee
Dyson Technology Limited
|
Original Assignee
Dyson Limited
|
Lawn mower having independent drive wheel suspension | ||
Patent #
US 6,170,242 B1
Filed 07/21/1998
|
Current Assignee
Ferris Industries Inc.
|
Original Assignee
Ferris Industries Inc.
|
Electric vehicle with a movable battery tray mounted between frame rails | ||
Patent #
US 6,260,645 B1
Filed 04/22/1999
|
Current Assignee
FCA US LLC
|
Original Assignee
Daimler Chrysler Corporation
|
Brush box containment apparatus | ||
Patent #
US 6,272,712 B1
Filed 07/07/2000
|
Current Assignee
Lam Research Corporation
|
Original Assignee
Lam Research Corporation
|
Computer interface system for a robotic system | ||
Patent #
US 6,292,712 B1
Filed 01/29/1998
|
Current Assignee
Northrop Grumman Systems Corp.
|
Original Assignee
Northrop Grumman Corporation
|
Speed controller for a self-traveling vehicle | ||
Patent #
US 6,324,462 B1
Filed 08/24/1998
|
Current Assignee
Komatsu
|
Original Assignee
Komatsu
|
Controlled self operated vacuum cleaning system | ||
Patent #
US 6,076,226 A
Filed 01/27/1997
|
Current Assignee
Robert J. Schaap
|
Original Assignee
Robert J. Schaap
|
Mobile robot steering method and control device | ||
Patent #
US 6,076,025 A
Filed 01/29/1998
|
Current Assignee
Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
|
Original Assignee
Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
|
Multifunctional vacuum cleaning appliance | ||
Patent #
US 6,094,775 A
Filed 03/05/1998
|
Current Assignee
BSH Bosch und Siemens HausgerTe GmbH
|
Original Assignee
BSH Bosch und Siemens HausgerTe GmbH
|
Road sweeping machine | ||
Patent #
US 5,901,409 A
Filed 04/22/1998
|
Current Assignee
Alfred Kaercher GmbH Company KG
|
Original Assignee
Alfred Kaercher GmbH Company KG
|
Remote control vacuum cleaner and charging system | ||
Patent #
US 5,926,909 A
Filed 08/28/1996
|
Current Assignee
Daniel Mcgee
|
Original Assignee
Daniel Mcgee
|
Remote controlled vacuum cleaner | ||
Patent #
US 5,940,930 A
Filed 12/04/1997
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Mobile robot control device | ||
Patent #
US 5,942,869 A
Filed 02/10/1998
|
Current Assignee
Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
|
Original Assignee
Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
|
System and device for a self orienting device | ||
Patent #
US 5,935,179 A
Filed 12/29/1997
|
Current Assignee
Aktiebolaget Electrolux
|
Original Assignee
Aktiebolaget Electrolux
|
Mobile work robot system | ||
Patent #
US 5,959,423 A
Filed 06/03/1996
|
Current Assignee
Moneual Incorporated
|
Original Assignee
Minolta Corporation Limited
|
Computer peripheral floor cleaning system and navigation method | ||
Patent #
US 5,995,884 A
Filed 03/07/1997
|
Current Assignee
Pauline O. James, Timothy P. Allen
|
Original Assignee
Pauline O. James, Timothy P. Allen
|
Mobile system for indoor 3-D mapping and creating virtual environments | ||
Patent #
US 6,009,359 A
Filed 09/18/1996
|
Current Assignee
National Research Council Canada
|
Original Assignee
National Research Council Canada
|
Lead acid charger | ||
Patent #
US 5,710,506 A
Filed 02/07/1995
|
Current Assignee
Benchmarq Microelectronics Inc.
|
Original Assignee
Benchmarq Microelectronics Inc.
|
Freestanding central vacuum system | ||
Patent #
US 5,740,581 A
Filed 12/31/1996
|
Current Assignee
VACS AMERICA INC.
|
Original Assignee
VACS AMERICA INC.
|
Noncontacting electric power transfer apparatus, noncontacting signal transfer apparatus, split-type mechanical apparatus employing these transfer apparatus, and a control method for controlling same | ||
Patent #
US 5,770,936 A
Filed 10/03/1996
|
Current Assignee
Kabushiki Kaisha Yaskawa Denki
|
Original Assignee
Kabushiki Kaisha Yaskawa Denki
|
Automatic machine and device for floor dusting | ||
Patent #
US 5,787,545 A
Filed 01/02/1997
|
Current Assignee
Solar Robotics SA
|
Original Assignee
Andre Colens
|
Vacuum cleaner and control method thereof | ||
Patent #
US 5,841,259 A
Filed 04/17/1996
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Remote controllable automatic moving vacuum cleaner | ||
Patent #
US 5,839,156 A
Filed 12/18/1996
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
KWANGJU ELECTRONICS CO. LTD.
|
Rechargeable battery pack with identification circuit, real time clock and authentication capability | ||
Patent #
US 5,608,306 A
Filed 03/15/1994
|
Current Assignee
Ericsson-GE Mobile Communications Inc.
|
Original Assignee
Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson
|
Self-guided, self-propelled, convertible cleaning apparatus | ||
Patent #
US 5,634,237 A
Filed 03/29/1995
|
Current Assignee
Ajit P. Paranjpe
|
Original Assignee
Ajit P. Paranjpe
|
Charge induction apparatus of robot cleaner and method thereof | ||
Patent #
US 5,646,494 A
Filed 03/03/1995
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
System for assigning computer resources to control multiple computer directed devices | ||
Patent #
US 5,659,779 A
Filed 04/25/1994
|
Current Assignee
the united states of america as represented by the secretary of the navy
|
Original Assignee
the united states of america as represented by the secretary of the navy
|
Method for producing a cellularly structured environment map of a self-propelled, mobile unit that orients itself in the environment at least with the assistance of sensors based on wave refection | ||
Patent #
US 5,677,836 A
Filed 02/24/1995
|
Current Assignee
Siemens AG
|
Original Assignee
Siemens AG
|
Method for localization of beacons for an autonomous device | ||
Patent #
US 5,682,313 A
Filed 06/05/1995
|
Current Assignee
Aktiebolaget Electrolux
|
Original Assignee
Aktiebolaget Electrolux
|
Remote control apparatus and control method thereof | ||
Patent #
US 5,483,440 A
Filed 06/07/1994
|
Current Assignee
Hitachi America Limited
|
Original Assignee
Hitachi America Limited
|
Autonomous mowing vehicle and apparatus for detecting boundary of mowed field | ||
Patent #
US 5,528,888 A
Filed 12/22/1994
|
Current Assignee
Subaru Corp.
|
Original Assignee
Fuji Heavy Industries Limited
|
Mobile robot location determination employing error-correcting distributed landmarks | ||
Patent #
US 5,525,883 A
Filed 07/08/1994
|
Current Assignee
Sara Avitzour
|
Original Assignee
Sara Avitzour
|
Method for controlling self-running cleaning apparatus | ||
Patent #
US 5,548,511 A
Filed 10/29/1992
|
Current Assignee
Axxon Robotics LLC
|
Original Assignee
White Consolidated Industries Incorporated
|
Ultrasonic furrow or crop row following sensor | ||
Patent #
US 5,410,479 A
Filed 08/17/1992
|
Current Assignee
William B. Coker
|
Original Assignee
William B. Coker
|
Robot cleaner | ||
Patent #
US 5,440,216 A
Filed 06/08/1993
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Navigating robot with reference line plotter | ||
Patent #
US 5,453,931 A
Filed 10/25/1994
|
Current Assignee
James R. Watts Jr
|
Original Assignee
James R. Watts Jr
|
Automatic controlled cleaning machine | ||
Patent #
US 5,279,672 A
Filed 06/29/1992
|
Current Assignee
Karcher North America Incorporated
|
Original Assignee
Windsor Industries Incorporated
|
Obstacle sensing apparatus for a self-propelled cleaning robot | ||
Patent #
US 5,293,955 A
Filed 12/30/1992
|
Current Assignee
Goldstar Jewellery LLC
|
Original Assignee
Goldstar Jewellery LLC
|
Reflexive teleoperated control system for a remotely controlled vehicle | ||
Patent #
US 5,307,271 A
Filed 09/28/1990
|
Current Assignee
the united states of america as represented by the secretary of the navy
|
Original Assignee
the united states of america as represented by the secretary of the navy
|
Navigational control apparatus and method for autonomus vehicles | ||
Patent #
US 5,321,614 A
Filed 06/06/1991
|
Current Assignee
Floorbotics Inc.
|
Original Assignee
Guy T.D. Ashworth
|
Process and autonomous apparatus for the automatic cleaning of ground areas through the performance of programmed tasks | ||
Patent #
US 5,341,540 A
Filed 12/06/1991
|
Current Assignee
ONEI S.A.
|
Original Assignee
ONET S.A.
|
Fan brake for textile cleaning machine | ||
Patent #
US 5,345,649 A
Filed 04/21/1993
|
Current Assignee
William T. Whitlow
|
Original Assignee
William T. Whitlow
|
Method for automatically controlling a travelling and cleaning operation of vacuum cleaners | ||
Patent #
US 5,353,224 A
Filed 12/05/1991
|
Current Assignee
Goldstar Jewellery LLC
|
Original Assignee
Goldstar Jewellery LLC
|
Autonomous lawn mower | ||
Patent #
US 5,204,814 A
Filed 11/13/1990
|
Current Assignee
CUTTING EDGE ROBOTICS INC.
|
Original Assignee
Mobot Incorporated
|
Charging control system for moving robot system | ||
Patent #
US 5,220,263 A
Filed 03/26/1991
|
Current Assignee
Muratec Automation Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Shinko Electric Industries Company Limited
|
Electro-optical system for detecting the presence of an object within a predetermined detection system | ||
Patent #
US 5,245,177 A
Filed 10/24/1991
|
Current Assignee
Norman H. Schiller
|
Original Assignee
Norman H. Schiller
|
Self-running cleaning apparatus | ||
Patent #
US 5,109,566 A
Filed 06/28/1990
|
Current Assignee
Matsushita Electric Industrial Company Limited
|
Original Assignee
Matsushita Electric Industrial Company Limited
|
Mobile robot guidance and navigation system | ||
Patent #
US 5,165,064 A
Filed 03/22/1991
|
Current Assignee
CYBEROTICS INC. A CORP. OF MA.
|
Original Assignee
CYBEROTICS INC.
|
Vehicle | ||
Patent #
US 5,001,635 A
Filed 12/27/1988
|
Current Assignee
Sanyo Electric Company Limited
|
Original Assignee
Sanyo Electric Company Limited
|
Control apparatus for plane working robot | ||
Patent #
US 5,032,775 A
Filed 06/05/1990
|
Current Assignee
Toshiba Corporation
|
Original Assignee
Toshiba Corporation
|
Mobile robot navigation employing retroreflective ceiling features | ||
Patent #
US 5,051,906 A
Filed 06/07/1989
|
Current Assignee
Carefusion 303 Incorporated
|
Original Assignee
TRANSITIONS RESEARCH CORPORATION
|
Method of and a device for safeguarding a vehicle or machinery movable in space | ||
Patent #
US 4,920,520 A
Filed 09/07/1988
|
Current Assignee
IBP PIETZSCH GMBH
|
Original Assignee
IBP PIETZSCH GMBH
|
Surface position sensor | ||
Patent #
US 4,936,676 A
Filed 11/28/1984
|
Current Assignee
Honeywell Incorporated
|
Original Assignee
Honeywell Incorporated
|
Mobile robot navigation employing ceiling light fixtures | ||
Patent #
US 4,933,864 A
Filed 10/04/1988
|
Current Assignee
TRANSITIONS RESEARCH CORPORATION
|
Original Assignee
TRANSITIONS RESEARCH CORPORATION
|
Steering and drive means for robot vehicle | ||
Patent #
US 4,932,489 A
Filed 04/07/1988
|
Current Assignee
TRANSITIONS RESEARCH CORPORATION
|
Original Assignee
TRANSITIONS RESEARCH CORPORATION
|
Optical guidance system for industrial vehicles | ||
Patent #
US 4,947,094 A
Filed 07/23/1987
|
Current Assignee
Battelle Memorial Institute
|
Original Assignee
Battelle Memorial Institute
|
Visual navigation and obstacle avoidance structured light system | ||
Patent #
US 4,954,962 A
Filed 09/06/1988
|
Current Assignee
Pyxis Corp.
|
Original Assignee
TRANSITIONS RESEARCH CORPORATION
|
Tether-guided vehicle and method of controlling same | ||
Patent #
US 4,967,862 A
Filed 03/13/1989
|
Current Assignee
Carefusion 303 Incorporated
|
Original Assignee
TRANSITIONS RESEARCH CORPORATION
|
Automatic guided vehicle system | ||
Patent #
US 4,817,000 A
Filed 03/10/1986
|
Current Assignee
SI Handling Systems Inc.
|
Original Assignee
SI Handling Systems Inc.
|
Automated guided vehicle | ||
Patent #
US 4,790,402 A
Filed 09/28/1987
|
Current Assignee
TENNANT COMPANY 701 N. LILAC DRIVE MINNEAPOLIS
|
Original Assignee
Tennant Company
|
Autonomous mobile robot | ||
Patent #
US 4,638,445 A
Filed 06/08/1984
|
Current Assignee
Paul J. Mattaboni
|
Original Assignee
Paul J. Mattaboni
|
Apparatus and method for reducing topographical effects in an auger image | ||
Patent #
US 4,638,446 A
Filed 05/31/1983
|
Current Assignee
Physical Electronics USA Inc.
|
Original Assignee
Perkinelmer Incorporated
|
Navigation system and method for a mobile robot | ||
Patent #
US 4,679,152 A
Filed 02/20/1985
|
Current Assignee
NEC Corporation
|
Original Assignee
HEATH COMPANY
|
Optical positional encoder comprising immediately adjacent detectors | ||
Patent #
US 4,691,101 A
Filed 06/19/1985
|
Current Assignee
Avago Technologies ECBU IP Singapore Pte Limited
|
Original Assignee
HP Inc.
|
Robot tractors | ||
Patent #
US 4,482,960 A
Filed 11/20/1981
|
Current Assignee
Lmi Technologies Incorporated
|
Original Assignee
Diffracto Ltd.
|
Driverless vehicle autoguide by light signals and two directional detectors | ||
Patent #
US 4,328,545 A
Filed 08/01/1979
|
Current Assignee
Imperial Chemical Industries Limited
|
Original Assignee
Imperial Chemical Industries Limited
|
Discharge means for canister vacuum cleaner | ||
Patent #
US 4,118,208 A
Filed 04/25/1977
|
Current Assignee
George Lewis Klinedinst
|
Original Assignee
George Lewis Klinedinst
|
Floor or carpet sweeper | ||
Patent #
US 4,028,765 A
Filed 07/19/1976
|
Current Assignee
Leifheit International Gunter Leifheit GmbH
|
Original Assignee
LEIFHEIT INTERNATIONAL GUNTER LEIFHEIT GMBH
|
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A SELF-PROPELLED DEVICE USING A DYNAMICALLY CONFIGURABLE INSTRUCTION LIBRARY | ||
Patent #
US 20120168240A1
Filed 01/03/2012
|
Current Assignee
Sphero Inc.
|
Original Assignee
Sphero Inc.
|
ROBOT CLEANER, REMOTE CONTROLLING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF THE SAME | ||
Patent #
US 20120259481A1
Filed 03/30/2012
|
Current Assignee
LG Electronics Inc.
|
Original Assignee
LG Electronics Inc.
|
Robot control apparatus and robot system | ||
Patent #
US 8,396,599 B2
Filed 11/02/2005
|
Current Assignee
Ibaraki Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Kabushiki Kaisha Yaskawa Denki
|
Original Assignee
Ibaraki Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Kabushiki Kaisha Yaskawa Denki
|
Autonomous floor-cleaning robot | ||
Patent #
US 8,474,090 B2
Filed 08/29/2008
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Coverage robot mobility | ||
Patent #
US 8,600,553 B2
Filed 06/05/2007
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Canister-type vacuum cleaner | ||
Patent #
US 2,868,321 A
Filed 10/18/1957
|
Current Assignee
George M. Kelly
|
Original Assignee
George M. Kelly
|
Circular canister type vacuum cleaners | ||
Patent #
US 2,892,511 A
Filed 11/16/1955
|
Current Assignee
Francis A. Gall, Walter Krzesiewski
|
Original Assignee
Francis A. Gall, Walter Krzesiewski
|
Carpet sweeper and brush cleaning combs therefor | ||
Patent #
US 2,770,825 A
Filed 09/10/1951
|
Current Assignee
Fred W. Pullen
|
Original Assignee
Fred W. Pullen
|
MOVING ROBOT, USER TERMINAL APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF | ||
Patent #
US 20140316636A1
Filed 04/11/2014
|
Current Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Original Assignee
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
|
Autonomous floor-cleaning robot | ||
Patent #
US 9,038,233 B2
Filed 12/14/2012
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Autonomous robot auto-docking and energy management systems and methods | ||
Patent #
US 9,215,957 B2
Filed 09/03/2014
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Remote control scheduler and method for autonomous robotic device | ||
Patent #
US 9,486,924 B2
Filed 03/27/2015
|
Current Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
Original Assignee
iRobot Corporation
|
28 Claims
-
1. A method of cleaning a room using a robotic cleaning device, the method comprising:
-
autonomously navigating the robotic cleaning device having a battery about a floor surface of the room; transmitting a power level report from the robotic cleaning device to a mobile device; automatically returning the robotic cleaning device to a docking station based on a power level of the robotic cleaning device; transmitting a mission status report from the robotic cleaning device to the mobile device; and transmitting from the robotic cleaning device an error report indicative of an error of at least one of a filter or a brush of the robotic cleaning device. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18)
-
-
19. A method of cleaning a room using a robotic cleaning device, the method comprising:
-
autonomously navigating the robotic cleaning device having a battery about a floor surface of the room; transmitting a power level report from the robotic cleaning device to a mobile device; automatically returning the robotic cleaning device to a docking station based on a power level of the robotic cleaning device; transmitting a mission status report from the robotic cleaning device to the mobile device; receiving, from the mobile device at the robotic cleaning device, information about a cleaning power setting; cleaning at a cleaning power between a minimum setting and a maximum setting based on the received information about the cleaning power setting; transmitting, from the robotic cleaning device to the mobile device, a return signal indicative of completion of receiving the information about the cleaning power; and providing a visual or audio signal indicative of the completion of receiving the information about the cleaning power. - View Dependent Claims (20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28)
-
1 Specification
This application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 15/340,250, filed Nov. 1, 2016, which is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 14/670,572, filed Mar. 27, 2015, which is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 11/166,891, filed Jun. 24, 2005, which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/582,531, filed Jun. 24, 2004, the disclosures of which are being incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/166,518, filed Jun. 24, 2008, entitled “Programming and Diagnostic Tool for a Mobile Robot,” the disclosure of which is being incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
The present invention relates generally to the field of robotics including the control of an autonomous robotic device and, more particularly, to a remote control device and associated method for inputting schedule information via IR signals to an autonomous robotic device, such as a cleaning robot.
Robotic cleaning devices can be used to clean a defined area based on a program stored in the robot'"'"'s processor. The purpose of these devices is to clean efficiently a room without the need for a user to physically control the cleaning device, or even be in the room when the floor is being cleaned. This can effectively reduce the time necessary for household chores, reduce noise pollution by enabling a room to be cleaned without the need for a user to be present, or enable an elderly or disabled person to clean a room which would otherwise be difficult or impossible to achieve without aid.
A number of methods for achieving this aim are currently in use. For example robotic cleaning devices are available which allow the movement of the robot to be controlled directly by a remote communication device to either follow a path defined by commands from the remote device, or to follow a cleaning path based on a program stored in the robot. These devices however require a user to be present in order to control the motion of the robot or directly implement a stored cleaning mission.
Devices are available which allow a robotic cleaner to be controlled remotely from a separate electronic device, such as a PC with a wireless communication attachment. These devices can therefore be controlled from a scheduling and control application program within the computer, thus allowing the device to operate without the need for a user to be present. These devices require a separate PC to be operational and in linked communication with the robotic device before it can carry out a task and complete a scheduling assignment.
Robotic cleaners are also available which allow a user to directly input scheduling and control information into the robotic device using buttons located on the device itself. As a result, this device can work autonomously once a schedule has been physically input into the robotic device. However, this device does not allow scheduling information to be communicated to the device from a remote controller. As a result, the device would not completely alleviate the need to physically approach the controller, bend down, and input the scheduling information manually. This could limit the ability of the device to be easily used by a person of limited mobility.
None of the current robotic cleaners allow all the desired functions of a robotic cleaning robot to be enabled from a single remote device, without the need for further external control. The devices currently available require either an external source to control the scheduling function, or a direct physical input of the scheduling information through user inputs on the robotic device itself. Allowing a robotic cleaner to run autonomously a scheduling application without external input, receive updated scheduling and other user applications or information from a portable remote device without direct physical contact, and also allow the robotic cleaner to be directly controlled remotely from the same portable remote device, if and when required, would greatly increase the utility of the robotic cleaner and broaden the range of applications for a user.
From the foregoing, there is a need for a method and apparatus to allow a robotic cleaning device to operate autonomously to a remotely communicated user defined schedule, without the need for a user to be present or for a further control input from an external source. It is also desirable to provide a single portable apparatus that can load the configuration applications into the robotic device, select and communicate scheduling information to the robotic device, and control a function of a robotic device based on a direct user command, to improve the utility, efficiency and usability of a robotic cleaning device.
The invention provides a method and apparatus for configuring a robotic device to operate according to a user defined schedule. Upon configuration of the robotic device, the method and apparatus allows a user to input scheduling information into the robotic device using a remote communication device, after which the robotic device is capable of operating without any further input from a user or the remote device. The communication device can also be used to control directly a function of the robotic device, or to receive information from the robotic device. One or more implementations of the invention may provide one or more of the following features.
In one embodiment of the invention, a configuration tool can be used to configure a robotic device. This method includes the steps of linking the configuration tool to the robotic device, authenticating the configuration tool, and loading, via the configuration tool, information into the robotic device after successful authentication of the configuration tool. The information loaded into the robotic device can include a scheduling application program to enable a scheduling capability of the device. The loading step also allows the communication device to retro-fit, reprogram, and upgrade the scheduling capability of the robotic device at any time.
In one configuration of the invention, the link connecting the configuration tool to the robotic device can include a communication port in each device, such as but not limited to a serial port, USB port, or other appropriate communication port. The robotic device and the configuration tool can then communicate through a cable plugged into the communication port of each device. In an alternative configuration, the link between the configuration tool and the robotic device can be a direct physical connection, wherein one device includes a male serial port adapter, or other communication port adapter such as a USB connector, which plugs directly into a female port on the other device. In a further alternative configuration, the robotic device and configuration tool may link through a wireless connection, wherein a remote signal, such as an infrared, radio frequency, or other appropriate frequency signal, is used to load information from the configuration tool to the robotic device.
The scheduling application program loaded into the robotic device can enable the robotic device to implement further scheduling information from a remote device. As a result, the robotic device can be enabled to run autonomously based on scheduling information loaded into, and stored in, the robotic device without further user input. One embodiment of the invention allows the remote device to be a hand-held input device that can communicate with the robotic device through a wireless connection.
One embodiment of the invention includes a method for configuring a robotic device for autonomous use, including the steps of selecting scheduling information in a remote device, linking the remote device to the robotic device, authenticating the link, communicating the scheduling information from the remote device to the robotic device, and storing the scheduling information in the robotic device. The link between the robotic device and the remote device can be a wireless connection, or any other linking method, such as those described above.
Once the scheduling information has been stored in the robotic device, it can operate in accordance with this stored scheduling information. As a result, the stored scheduling information enables the robotic device to run autonomously without further user input. In one embodiment, the stored scheduling information can include the date, day, and/or time at which the robotic device should operate, and also the number and type of mission it should run at each scheduled time.
Another embodiment of the invention includes a method of communicating with a robotic device. This method includes the steps of linking a single communication device to the robotic device, authenticating the link, and transmitting information from the communication device to the robotic device, wherein the transmitted information includes controlling a function of the robotic device, and at least one of configuring the robotic device and providing scheduling information for the robotic device. As a result, a single communication device can provide multiple functions for the control, scheduling, and configuration of a robotic device.
In various embodiments of the invention the transmitted information can include control and scheduling information, control and configuration information, or control, configuration and scheduling information. This control, configuration, and scheduling information need not be transmitted at the same time, but can be communicated independently, and at different times to enable one specific aspect of the invention. The communication device used to transmit this information can include, but is not limited to, a hand-held remote device, a PC, a laptop, and a wireless communication device.
In one embodiment of the invention, the method can further include the step of transmitting information from the robotic device to the communication device. This information transmitted from the robotic device can include, but is not limited to, an error report, a power level report, currently stored scheduling information, a status report, authentication information, and a user maintenance report.
One embodiment of the invention provides an apparatus for communicating with a robotic device. This apparatus includes a memory for storing information, at least one port for communicating with the robotic device, at least one authenticator for authenticating the robotic device, and at least one transmitter for transmitting information to the robotic device, via a communication port. The information communicated to the robotic device includes information for controlling a function of the robotic device, and at least one of configuration information and scheduling information for the robotic device. In an alternative embodiment, the apparatus can also receive information transmitted from the robotic device.
The apparatus can be a hand-held remote device, or other communication device, and can further include a wireless communication device. In one embodiment, the apparatus can include a display, allowing a user to view information associated with the running of the apparatus. The apparatus can also include at least one user input, allowing the user, for example, to input information to be communicated to the robotic device, directly control a function of the robotic device through a wireless connection, upload information from the robotic device, or search for or control a function of the remote device itself. In various embodiments of the apparatus, the user input can include, but is not limited to, a switch, a joystick, a button, a touch sensitive pad, a roller-ball, and an acoustic input, such as a voice command.
In another embodiment, the invention can include a robotic device that includes a memory for storing information, at least one port for receiving information from a communication device, and at least one authenticator for authenticating the communication device. The communicated information includes information for controlling a function of the robotic device, and at least one of configuration information and scheduling information for the robotic device. This control, configuration, and scheduling information need not be received at the same time, but can be received independently, and at different times, to enable one specific aspect of the invention.
The robotic device is adapted to operate autonomously without further user input based upon scheduling information received from the communication device. Thus, upon loading of a scheduling application program, either pre-installed or by a communication device, a user can enable the robotic device to run autonomously according to the received scheduling information. The robotic device can consist of either a mobile robotic device, such as a cleaning robot, or a stationary robotic device. In one embodiment it can also include at least one transmitter for transmitting information to the communication device.
In yet another aspect, the invention can consist of a robotic system including both a robotic device and a separate communication device for communicating information with the robotic device. The communicated information consists of information for controlling a function of the robotic device, and at least one of configuration information and scheduling information for the robotic device. In one embodiment of the invention, the robotic device can also transmit information to the communication device. In one embodiment, the communication device can be a hand-held remote device, while the robotic device can be either a mobile robotic device or a stationary robotic device.
The objects and features of the invention can be better understood with reference the drawings described below, and the claims. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. In the drawings, like numerals are used to indicate like parts throughout the various views.
The invention provides a method and apparatus for configuring a robotic device to run autonomously according to stored scheduling information. The apparatus includes a communication device that can be used to directly control a function of the robotic device. For example, the communication device can be used to provide directional control to a mobile robotic device such as a cleaning robot. The communication device can also be used to load configuration information, such as a scheduling application program, into the robotic device, such that the robotic device can run autonomously without further user input upon storing user define scheduling information. This scheduling information can also be communicated to the robotic device via the communication device.
In one embodiment of the device, this configuration information 14 can be sent through a wireless connection with the robotic device, with the information sent by infrared (IR), radio frequency (RF), or other appropriate signal. In alternative embodiments, the scheduling information could be sent through communication ports linked by a cable (for example a USB or serial port link), or even by a direct physical connection between the communication device 12 and the robotic device. For a direct communication, a male connector (e.g. USB, serial port or other appropriate connection element) on one device mates directly with a female connector on the other device. In further alternative embodiments, the direct communication can include a docking station on the robotic device, such that the communication device can be removeably attached to the robotic device, thus allowing the communication device to act as a direct user interface between a user and the robotic device.
The configuration information 12 can also include information 22 for upgrading the existing capabilities of the robotic device or reprogramming the device to carry out new tasks. This upgrading information 22 can include, but is not limited to, new versions of the software installed in the robotic device, diagnostic information to check the status of the robotic device, and programs to allow the robotic device to send information to the communication device (either prompted by the user or upon the occurrence of a certain event). Further upgrading or reprogramming information 22 can include programs and applications allowing the robotic device to carry out completely new tasks (such as, but not limited to, working as a toy, security device, or searching device for lost objects) or “learning” programs and applications allowing the robotic device to adapt its own programming based on information gained through carrying out specified tasks. These learning programs can, for example, allow a mobile robotic device 26 to map out a room and remember where the objects in the room are placed, or adapt its scheduling based on prior patterns of user behavior.
The communication device 12 can also be configured to communicate scheduling information 16 to a robotic device. In one embodiment, this scheduling information 16 is sent through a wireless connection between the communication device 12 and the robotic device, although again in alternative embodiments, communication ports providing a wired link (such as a USB or serial port link), or a direct physical connection can be used. The scheduling information can be communicated to both a stationary robotic device 24, or a mobile robotic device 26. The mobile robotic device 26 can, for example, be a cleaning robot such as the Roomba® brand floor vacuum sweeper available from iRobot Corporation, Burlington, Mass. The stationary robotic device 24 can, for example, be a portable barrier signal transmitter designed to send an IR beam along a designated path. The mobile robotic device 26 can be configured to change direction upon encountering this signal, thus the IR beam from the portable barrier signal transmitter acts as a “virtual wall” for the mobile robotic device (see U.S. Pat. No. 6,690,134, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). The stationary robotic device 24 can also be a docking station, homebase, or charging device for the robotic device.
In one embodiment of the invention, scheduling information 16 can be input into the communication device 12 through a user interface of the device 12. This information can then be communicated to a stationary 24 or mobile 26 robotic device through a wireless connection between the communication device 12 and the robotic device. The robotic device stores this information and runs according to the stored scheduling information 16 without the need for any other input from a user, controller or communication device 12. Changes in the scheduling information 16 stored in the robotic device can be made by simply inputting new scheduling information 16 into the communication device 12 and communicating it to the robotic device. In an alternative embodiment, a further step, such as but not limited to clearing the stored scheduling information 16 from the robotic device'"'"'s memory or inputting a code (either into the communication device 12 or directly into the robotic device), may be required before new scheduling information 16 can be loaded into the robotic device.
In one embodiment of the invention, the robotic device can be configured to provide a visual or audio signal upon the completion of a transfer of configuration or scheduling information. In an alternative embodiment, a return signal can be sent from the robotic device to the communication device 12 upon the successful completion of an information transfer. The robotic device can also be configured to illuminate a status light on either device if and when a scheduling program is stored in the memory.
The scheduling information 16 can include, but not be limited to, the date, day and time at which the robotic device operates, and may also include other information such as the length of time the robotic device should operate during a scheduled event, the mission or task it should carry out for each scheduled operation, and the number of missions or tasks it should carry out during a scheduled operation. The scheduling information can also include more complex calendar based information, such that the robotic device may be able to adjust its start time based on the time of year (for example due to time differences for daylight savings time or for the available hours of daylight), or adjust its schedule for holidays.
A robotic device can be configured or programmed to run a number of separate programs. For example, a mobile cleaning robot can be configured to clean different areas of a room or building, clean a particular spot on a floor, clean at varying power levels between a minimum to a maximum setting, return to a docking station when power drops to a specific level or the dirt compartment is full, or carry out other specific tasks. Using the scheduling information 16, the missions or tasks that the robotic device carries out can then be tailored to a user'"'"'s requirements, for example by only carrying out a high power cleaning mission at times when nobody is in the house. In one embodiment of the invention, a stationary robotic device 24, such as a portable barrier signal transmitter, can be scheduled to operate at the same time as a mobile cleaning robot, thus saving power. Alternatively, the stationary robotic device 24 may only turn on during some scheduled operations depending on whether a user want to clean the area potentially blocked by the portable barrier signal transmitter or not.
In one embodiment, the communication device 12 can also be used to provide direct control information 18 to a robotic device, based on a user input. This can involve directly driving a function of a robotic device 28, or initiating the robotic device to carry out a preprogrammed mission or task 30. In one embodiment of the invention, the communication device 12 includes a user input, or a number of inputs, such as, but not limited to, switches, a joystick, buttons, a touch sensitive pad, and a roller-ball. Using one of, or a combination of, these user inputs, a user can command the robot to carry out a specific movement or action immediately. For example, the driving information 28 may include, but not be limited to, commands to make a moveable robotic device turn left, turn right, move forward, and move backward. In the specific embodiment of a mobile cleaning robot, the driving information 28 may also include such commands as start and stop cleaning, or clean at a specific power level.
The driving information 28 may also include commands to carry out pre-programmed missions, tasks or actions. For example, the communication device 12 can include buttons or other user inputs that command a robotic device to specific task when the user input is enabled. For a mobile cleaning robot, these task commands 30 could include cleaning a specific spot, carrying out a specified cleaning mission, cleaning at a specific power level, stop and power down, power up, or return to a docking station.
In one embodiment of the invention, the communication device can be configured to receive a range of information from a robotic device. In the case of a robotic cleaning device, this information can include, but not be limited to, receiving power level or dirt compartment level status reports, error reports, information on when filters, sensors or brushes need to be cleaned, “dirt alerts” when a dirty area of floor is detected, or mission status reports (e.g. mission completed/abandoned/battery depleted, etc.)
In one embodiment, button 44 could be used to initiate the communication of configuration or scheduling information to a robotic device, control a specific task of the robotic device (such as initiating docking), or turn the robotic device, or the communication device 40, on and off. Buttons 48 can be used to provide input information into the communication device 40 when setting up scheduling information, enable the loading of specific configuration information into a robotic device, or control a specific mission, task or action of the robotic device. Buttons 50 may be used to input scheduling information into the communication device 40, enable the loading of configuration or scheduling information into a robotic device, and control a specific action of the robotic device. In one embodiment of the invention the buttons 50 could be used to control directly the movement of a cleaning robot, with the three buttons assigned to turning left, turning right, and moving forward. In an alternative embodiment, one or other of the buttons can also be used to lock the robotic device in a certain mode of operation, or in an “off” setting.
The communication device shown in
In alternative embodiments of the invention, the display 60 could also be configured to show such things as options for the type of configuration information that can be communicated, the range and type of scheduling information available for a given robotic device, and previously transmitted scheduling information. A display 60 can also be configured to show information received from a robotic device, as discussed above.
In the system configuration 120 shown in
In the system configuration 130 shown in
For a robotic device without a pre-installed scheduling application program, or a robotic device needing reprogramming or upgrading, the communication device can be used to load the required configuration information into the robotic device. This requires first linking 142 the communication device to the robotic device, either through a wireless connection, communication port, or direct connection. Upon optional authentication of the link using an authenticator (e.g., by hardware or software based systems), the desired configuration information can be loaded 144 into the robotic device, at which time it is stored 146 in memory of the robotic device. After this has been completed, the robotic device is ready for use 148. For robotic devices that have already been configured, steps 142, 144, and 146 are not necessary.
Once the robotic device and communication device are ready for use 148, the communication device can be used to provide scheduling information or direct control information to the robotic device. In one embodiment, this information is communicated through a wireless link, although a communication port link or direct link is also possible.
For enabling the robotic device to run according to a user defined schedule, the scheduling information is first entered into the communication device 150. The communication device can then be linked 152 to the robotic device and, upon optional authentication of this link, the scheduling information can be loaded 154 into the robotic device and stored 156 in the device'"'"'s memory. The robotic device is then free to run autonomously 158, based on this stored scheduling information. Depending on the schedule, the robotic device can start immediately or at a future time.
As well as providing scheduling information to a robotic device, the communication device can also directly control one or more function of the robotic device. Again, with the communication device and robotic device ready for use 148, a link can be formed 160 between the communication device and robotic device. Once the link has been authenticated, control information entered 162 into the communication device is received 164 immediately by the robotic device, which then operates 166 according to the user inputted control information.
The scheduling and control functions can run independently, such that the robotic device can be controlled by the user even when the robotic device is not scheduled to run, and alternatively run a scheduled mission without any need for control information. In one embodiment of the invention, the control function can be configured to overrule the scheduling function, so that during a scheduled event a user can take direct control of the robotic device without waiting until the scheduled task is completed. In an alternative embodiment, the scheduling function can be set as the dominant function, and thus upon the start of a scheduled task overrule any direct user control information being communicated at that time.
It should be noted that these functions can at any time be modified or updated by downloading new configuration information into the robotic device. In one embodiment of the invention the communication device can also be configured, updated or reprogrammed by linking the communication device to another device, such as but not limited to a PC, laptop, or other programming or diagnostic tool. As a result, both the communication device and the robotic device can be constantly updated to meet the requirements of the user and advancements developed by the system manufacturers or suppliers.
The invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing form the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. The foregoing embodiments, therefore, are to be considered in all respects illustrative rather than limiting the invention described herein. Scope of the invention is thus indicated by the appended claims, rather than by the foregoing description, and all changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are intended to be embraced therein.