Autonomous Floor Planning and Installation System

Abstract

An automated floor planning and installation system. The system includes an autonomous robot device equipped with sensors that measure floor surfaces and detect obstacles. The sensor data is transmitted to a floor planning control system, which generates a detailed floor plan, including dimensions, boundaries, and obstacle locations. The robot device incorporates a blade system that autonomously cuts the flooring material according to the floor plan, ensuring precise cuts without manual intervention. The floor plan can be stored in the robot device's memory, allowing for easy access during installation. In one embodiment, the system also provides recommendations for suitable flooring materials based on user preferences and requirements.

Claims

1. An autonomous floor planning and floor cutting device comprising: a floor planning control system having an autonomous device including a communication device and a sensor device; wherein said autonomous device having a plurality of wheels on a bottom surface; wherein said sensor device integrated in said autonomous device and having a plurality of sensors for measuring a flooring surface and compiling sensor data including flooring dimensions, flooring shapes, flooring fixtures, and flooring obstacles; wherein said plurality of sensors are selected from a group of sensors consisting of a laser detection sensor, an infrared sensor, a digital imaging sensor, and a tactile sensor; wherein said autonomous device moves along a flooring surface with said plurality of wheels; and further wherein said sensor data transmitted through said communication device to said floor planning control system for creating a customized floor plan.

2. An autonomous floor planning and floor cutting device of claim 1, wherein said measuring having an outline of the flooring surface, said flooring shapes, said flooring fixtures, and said flooring obstacles.

3. An autonomous floor planning and floor cutting device of claim 2, wherein said autonomous device having a blade on said bottom surface for cutting flooring material according to said sensor data and said customized floor plan.

4. An autonomous floor planning and floor cutting device of claim 3, wherein said communication device is wireless.

5. An autonomous floor planning and floor cutting device of claim 3, wherein said blade is retractable.

6. An autonomous floor planning and floor cutting device of claim 4, wherein said autonomous device having an internal memory for storing said customized floor plan.

7. A method of customizing a floor plan and cutting the floor plan, the method comprising the steps of: providing a floor planning control system having an autonomous device including a communication device and a sensor device; wherein said autonomous device having a plurality of wheels on a bottom surface; wherein said sensor device integrated in said autonomous device and having a plurality of sensors; wherein said plurality of sensors are selected from a group of sensors consisting of a laser detection sensor, an infrared sensor, a digital imaging sensor, and a tactile sensor; moving said autonomous device along a flooring surface with said plurality of wheels; measuring a flooring surface and compiling sensor data including flooring dimensions, flooring shapes, flooring fixtures, and flooring obstacles; transmitting said sensor data through said communication device to said floor planning control system; and creating a customized floor plan with said sensor data.

8. The method of customizing a floor plan and cutting the floor plan of claim 7, wherein said measuring having an outline of the flooring surface, said flooring shapes, said flooring fixtures, and said flooring obstacles.

9. The method of customizing a floor plan and cutting the floor plan of claim 8, wherein said autonomous device having a blade on said bottom surface for cutting flooring material according to said sensor data and said customized floor plan.

10. The method of customizing a floor plan and cutting the floor plan of claim 9, wherein said communication device is wireless.

11. The method of customizing a floor plan and cutting the floor plan of claim 10, wherein said blade is retractable.

12. The method of customizing a floor plan and cutting the floor plan of claim 11, wherein said autonomous device having an internal memory for storing said customized floor plan.

13. A method of customizing a floor plan, the method comprising the steps of: providing a floor planning control system having an autonomous device including a communication device and a sensor device; wherein said sensor device integrated in said autonomous device and having a plurality of sensors; wherein said plurality of sensors are selected from a group of sensors consisting of a laser detection sensor, an infrared sensor, a digital imaging sensor, and a tactile sensor; moving said autonomous device along a flooring surface; measuring a flooring surface and compiling sensor data including flooring dimensions, flooring shapes, flooring fixtures, and flooring obstacles; and creating a customized floor plan with said sensor data.

14. The method of customizing a floor plan of claim 13, wherein said measuring having an outline of the flooring surface, said flooring shapes, said flooring fixtures, and said flooring obstacles.

15. The method of customizing a floor plan of claim 14, wherein said autonomous device having a plurality of wheels on a bottom surface for said moving of said autonomous device.

16. The method of customizing a floor plan of claim 15 further comprising a step of transmitting said sensor data through said communication device to said floor planning control system.

17. The method of customizing a floor plan of claim 16, wherein said autonomous device having a blade on said bottom surface for cutting flooring material according to said sensor data and said customized floor plan.

18. The method of customizing a floor plan of claim 17, wherein said communication device is wireless.

19. The method of customizing a floor plan of claim 17, wherein said blade is retractable.

20. The method of customizing a floor plan of claim 16, wherein said autonomous device having an internal memory for storing said customized floor plan.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of an automated flooring planning and installation system of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0021] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram depicting different sensors integrated in the automated robot device of the automated flooring planning and installation system of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0022] FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate top perspective view and bottom perspective view of one potential embodiment of the automated robot device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0023] FIG. 4 illustrates a flow diagram depicting the process of measuring a floor layout and preparing a floor plan using the floor planning system of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0024] FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram depicting a process of using an updated floor plan by the robot device in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0025] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view showing the robot device positioned in an enclosed space for scanning and measurement in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

[0026] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view showing the robot device cutting the flooring into different cutouts in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0027] The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

[0028] As noted above, there is a long felt need in the art for an automated measurement and cutting system for flooring. Additionally, there is a long felt need in the art for an automated floor planning system that eliminates the need for people to bend, get on hands and knees to manually map out an entire floor plan. Moreover, there is a long felt need in the art for a flooring planning system that uses a robot device for measuring a floor, obstacles, and fixtures. Further, there is a long felt need in the art of a system that saves considerable time, money, and effort when installing flooring. Finally, there is a long felt need in the art for an innovative automated system that streamlines the flooring installation process, reduces manual labor, and ensures accurate measurements.

[0029] The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is a method for automated flooring planning and installation using a robot or autonomous device. The method includes the steps of utilizing sensors, including laser distance sensors, infrared sensors, and/or camera sensors, to measure floor surfaces and detect obstacles/fixtures, transmitting the sensor data collected by the robot device to a floor planning computer system for processing and analyzing through wired or wireless communication methods, processing the sensor data by the floor planning computer system to create a detailed floor plan, including dimensions, shape, boundaries, and obstacle locations, storing the generated floor plan in the internal memory of the robot device for easy access and reference during the installation process, and moving the robot device along the cutting guidelines specified in the floor plan generated by the computer system and activating the blade system at the appropriate positions to make accurate cuts in the flooring material.

[0030] Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of an automated flooring planning and installation system of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The automated flooring planning and installation system 100 of the present invention is configured to provide users with an automated measurement and cutting system for flooring, thereby saving considerable time and effort when installing flooring. More specifically, the system 100 includes an automated robot or autonomous floor cutting device 102 and a floor planning control system 104 wherein the robot device 102 and the floor planning control system 104 communicate via a communication channel or device 106. The communication channel or device 106 can be a wired or a wireless connection depending on design and configuration of the system 100.

[0031] The automated robot device 102 is designed to move along a floor or surface and can outline and measure flooring, obstacles, fixtures, and more. The robot device 102 includes a sensor system or device 108 which has a plurality of sensors as illustrated in FIG. 2. The sensor system or device 108 is integrated into the robot device 102 and is designed to measure a flooring surface for providing accurate information about a floor's dimensions, shapes, fixtures, obstacles, and irregularities. Further, the robot device 102 also detects obstacles and items placed or affixed on the floor, thus, helping in creating an effective floor plan. In the preferred embodiment, the sensor data from the sensor system or device 108 is transmitted to the floor planning control system 104 for creating an automated and customized floor plan. The transmission can be done via the communication channel or device 106 using the wireless transceiver 110.

[0032] The robot device 102 is not only designed for measuring floor and detecting obstacles, but can also autonomously cut flooring material as per the floor plan designed and measured by the floor planning control system 104. A blade system 112 is disposed at the bottom of the robot device 102 as illustrated in FIG. 3B and is designed to extend from a retracted position for cutting a flooring material. The blade system 112 is automatically or remotely activated upon an instruction from the floor planning control system 104 or from a push button positioned on the robot device 102 as illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B. The floor plan designed by the floor planning control system 104 is transmitted to the robot device 102 enabling the robot device 102 to autonomously cut a flooring material. Furthermore, an internal memory 114 of the robot device 102 stores the flooring plan and uses for the movement and operation of the blade system 112.

[0033] The floor planning control system 104 includes a floor planning module 116 designed to outline a flooring plan based on the sensor data received from the robot device 102. In some embodiments, the floor planning module 116 outlines the flooring area on the floor plan. Further, the floor planning module 116 can trace the perimeter of the measured space, indicating the boundaries within which the flooring can be installed. The floor plan also considers the fixtures, furniture, structures, obstacles, and the like and helps in precise floor plan without much wastage. The floor plan created by the floor planning module 116 is displayed on a touch display screen 118 of the floor planning control system 104. The display screen 118 also allows a user to adjust or make modifications in the floor plan as per their preferences.

[0034] Based on the floor plan and dimensions measured by the floor planning module 116, a recommendation module 120 recommends one or more flooring materials for flooring. The flooring material can be also customized as per the material of the blade system 112 of the robot device 102.

[0035] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram depicting different sensors integrated in the automated robot device of the automated flooring planning and installation system of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The sensor system or device 108 can be designed as an Integrated chip (IC) or SoC and integrated within the robot device 102. Further, the sensor system or device 108 includes a plurality of sensors including a laser distance sensor 202. The laser distance sensor 202 is configured to emit a laser beam and measure the time taken by the beam to reflect back to the sensor 202. Using the time and the speed of laser, the sensor 202 can accurately determine the distance between the sensor and the floor surface and/or one or more fixtures, providing precise measurements of the flooring dimensions.

[0036] The sensor system or device 108 includes one or more infrared (IR) sensors 204 that are used for detecting objects and obstacles in the vicinity of the robot system 102. The IR sensors 204 emit and detect infrared radiation and can be positioned strategically on the robot device 102 to detect permanent objects like walls, furniture, or fixtures. The IR sensors 204 can be positioned to cover 360 degrees around the robot device 102. One or more digital imaging sensors 206 such as digital cameras or depth cameras are included in the sensor system 102 and are configured to capture visual data of the floor surface. One or more computer vision algorithms can be implemented in the sensors 206 for analyzing the images to measure the dimensions, detect patterns, and identify any irregularities or obstacles. In some embodiments, the floor planning module 116 implements the computer vision algorithms for identifying irregularities and obstacles. Digital imaging sensors 206 provide detailed visual information that can be used to create an accurate floor plan.

[0037] The sensor system or device 108 also includes one or more tactile sensors 208, such as force-sensitive resistors, and are configured to detect variations in pressure or contact with the floor surface on which the robot device 102 is moving. The sensors 208 detects the smoothness or irregularities of the floor and provide additional data for accurate measurements for floor planning by the system 100.

[0038] FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate top perspective view and bottom perspective view of one potential embodiment of the automated robot device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The automated robot device 102 is unmanned and is used for measuring and scanning floor size and other fixtures and obstacles. More specifically, the robot device 102 has one or more wheels or rails 302 for moving along a floor without any external help. An integrated motor 304 provides power for movement of the robot device 102 and the robot device 102 can move 360 degrees. At the bottom surface 306 of the robot device 102, a blade opening 308 is disposed which is used for extending the blade system 112 for cutting a flooring material. The blade system 112 can selectively extend outward based on an input from the floor planning control system 104.

[0039] The sensor system or device 108 including the sensors as illustrated in FIG. 2 are disposed along the robot device 102, thereby scanning 360 degrees around thereof. Laser detection sensors 202, infrared sensors 204, and/or digital imaging sensors 206 are positioned along the periphery of the robot device 102 and the tactile sensors 208 are positioned on the bottom surface 306 of the robot device 102. The robot device 102 has a processor 310 configured for receiving data from the sensors and transmitting to the floor planning control system 104 for processing. The processor 310 can be any microcontroller or microprocessor and control operation of the robot device 102.

[0040] The robot device 102 can be constructed using lightweight and durable materials such as aluminum alloys, carbon fiber composites, or high-strength plastics, offering a good balance between weight, strength, and maneuverability. The specific dimensions of the robot device 102 can depend on factors such as the targeted flooring installation area and the size of the flooring materials. In some embodiments of the present invention, the robot device 102 can feature a robotic arm extending from the bottom surface 306 for precise movements and adjustments during cutting and installation.

[0041] FIG. 4 illustrates a flow diagram depicting the process of measuring the floor and preparing a floor plan using the floor planning system of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. Initially, the robot or autonomous device 102 utilizes sensors, such as laser distance sensors, infrared sensors, and/or camera sensors, to measure floor surfaces and detect obstacles. For measuring floor surfaces, the sensors emit signals or capture images that are processed to determine dimensions, irregularities, slopes, and other relevant parameters of the floor. In the case of detecting obstacles, the sensors analyze the surroundings to identify permanent objects like walls, furniture, or fixtures (Step 402).

[0042] Then, the sensor data collected by the robot system 102 is transmitted to the floor planning computer system 104 for processing and analysis (Step 404). This transmission can occur through wired or wireless communication methods, depending on the specific design and connectivity options of the device 102. The sensor data is sent in real-time or periodically to the computer system 104, where the data is received and interpreted by software algorithms specifically designed for floor planning.

[0043] In step 406, the floor planning computer system 104 processes the data to create a detailed floor plan. The floor plan can include dimensions, shapes, boundaries, and the location of obstacles detected by the sensors. The computer system 104 can also provide recommendations for suitable floor materials based on the characteristics of the floor surface, user preferences, and other factors. These recommendations can include suggestions for the type of flooring material, thickness, color, pattern, or any special requirements.

[0044] In step 408, for ensuring easy access and reference during the installation process, the floor plan generated by the computer system 104 can be stored in the internal memory of the robot device 102. This allows the robot 102 to have immediate access to the floor plan without relying solely on the continuous connection with the computer system 104. Storing the floor plan locally in the robot system's memory also ensures that the installation can proceed smoothly even if there are temporary disruptions in communication with the computer.

[0045] Finally, in step 410, the robot system 102 precisely moves along the cutting guidelines specified in the floor plan generated by the computer system 104. The blade system 112 is automatically or remotely activated at the appropriate positions to make accurate cuts in the flooring material, following the dimensions and shapes outlined in the floor plan. This automated cutting process cuts the flooring material to the correct size, minimizing errors and reducing the time and effort required for manual cutting.

[0046] FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram depicting a process of using an updated floor plan by the robot device in accordance with the disclosed architecture. Once the floor plan is generated and the cutting guidelines are established by the computer system 104, the robot device 102 autonomously moves along the cutting guidelines to cut the flooring material accurately (Step 502). As described above, the robot device 102 utilizes motorized wheels or tracks to navigate along the predetermined path, ensuring that the cutting guidelines are followed with precision. During the flooring installation process, an operator or user can adjust or update the original floor plan using the computer system (Step 504). For example, the user may encounter unexpected obstacles, variations in the floor surface, or changes in the desired flooring layout. In such cases, the operator can interact with the computer system 104 to provide updates to the floor plan. This can be done through a user-friendly interface where the operator can input modifications or mark changes directly on the floor plan displayed on the computer system 104. The operator's inputs are processed by the computer system 104 to update the floor plan accordingly.

[0047] In step 506, the computer system 104 transmits the updated floor plan data to the robot system 102 in real-time or periodically, depending on the specific communication protocol and connectivity options of the device 102. The robot system 102 upon receiving the updated floor plan, adjusts the movements and cutting operations accordingly.

[0048] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view showing the robot device 102 positioned in an enclosed space for scanning and measurement in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The robot device 102 is placed on a floor 602 which is required to be measured and on which flooring is to be installed. Obstacles 604 are scanned and identified by the device 102 as described in the disclosure earlier.

[0049] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view showing the robot device 102 cutting the flooring into different cutouts in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The robot device 102 precisely moves along the cutting guidelines 702 specified in the floor plan generated by the computer system 104. The blade system 112 shown in FIG. 3B is automatically or remotely activated at the appropriate positions to make accurate cuts in the flooring material, following the dimensions and shapes outlined in the floor plan to make a plurality of cutouts 704.

[0050] Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein automated flooring planning and installation system, floor planning system, and system are interchangeable and refer to the automated flooring planning and installation system 100 of the present invention. Similarly, as used herein robot device, robot system, automated robot device, and device are interchangeable and refer to the automated robot device 102 of the present invention.

[0051] Notwithstanding the forgoing, the automated flooring planning and installation system 100 and the automated robot device 102 of the present invention can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that it accomplishes the above stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the automated flooring planning and installation system 100 and the automated robot device 102 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the automated flooring planning and installation system 100 and the automated robot device 102 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the automated flooring planning and installation system 100 and the automated robot device 102 are important design parameters for user convenience, the automated flooring planning and installation system 100 and the automated robot device 102 may be of any size that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

[0052] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

[0053] What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term includes is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term comprising as comprising is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.