Remote control scheduler and method for autonomous robotic device

摘要

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.

主权项

1. A robotic system comprising:
a mobile robotic device comprising a processor; a stationary charging device to which the robotic device returns; and a hand-held remote device separate from the mobile robotic device, the hand-held remote device comprising:
a start button configured to provide a wireless remote signal directing the mobile robotic device to immediately start an autonomous mission by leaving the stationary recharging device;a dock button configured to provide a wireless remote signal directing the mobile robotic device to immediately return to the stationary charging device; andthree buttons of a button input configured, in a control mode, to provide a wireless remote signal of direct control commands to immediately move the mobile robotic device forward, left, and right;wherein the three buttons of the button input are configured, in a scheduling mode, to receive:
an operator's input of schedule information for the mobile robotic device to leave the stationary charging device to operate autonomously according to a delay determined by at least one of a selected time, a selected date, or a selected day; at least one transmitter for transmitting from the hand-held remote device to at least one of the mobile robotic device and the stationary charging device; and
a switch to toggle the hand-held remote device between the control mode and the scheduling mode; wherein the processor on the mobile robotic device is configured to receive a command, representative of the schedule information from the hand-held remote device, and control the mobile robotic device to leave the stationary charging device according to the schedule information.