Robot vacuum cleaner with motor axle and freewheel for cleaning swimming pools

Abstract

A pool cleaning robot (100) comprising a chassis (10), a suction duct (20) surmounting the chassis and opening into a filtration bag (30) placed above, and a propeller (40) placed inside said duct to suck up debris via a suction inlet (21) and discharge it into the filtration bag, the chassis comprising a motor axle (11) pulling the robot, the axle (11) comprising two drive wheels (111a, 111b) driven by a single motor (50), and an axle (112) connecting said drive wheels transversely to the movement of the robot, the motor (50) being configured to reverse its direction of rotation upon contact with a wall, said robot further comprising a third free wheel (121) for greater stability and maneuverability. Figure for abstract: figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Robot vacuum cleaner with motor axle and free wheel for cleaning swimming pools Technical field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the field of swimming pool maintenance and cleaning devices, in particular autonomously propelled vacuum cleaner robots, and relates more particularly to a vacuum cleaner robot equipped with an axle with two drive wheels and at least one free wheel for simple and stabilized drive. State of the art

[0002] Over the years, automatic pool cleaning technology has seen a multitude of advancements, with autonomous robot vacuums becoming predominant in this field. These robots are designed to move autonomously around a pool, removing debris deposited on the pool floor. They can also be adapted to handle different types of debris, such as leaves, sand, or other particles, and can be configured to clean different types of pool surfaces, including tile, concrete, or vinyl.

[0003] However, the propulsion means of a given robot may have variable efficiency depending on the nature of the surfaces.

[0004] Typically, a pool cleaning robot operates on a chassis, which is a frame that supports the robot and its components. The chassis often includes wheels or tracks that allow the robot to move around the pool. Some pool cleaning robots are equipped with two or more wheels, which may be driven by a motor to propel the robot. In some cases, the chassis may include additional wheels or tracks for better stability or maneuverability.

[0005] The cleaning function of these robots is often performed by a suction mechanism. This usually involves a propeller or similar device that creates a flow of water, sucking debris out of the pool. The debris is usually captured in a filter located upstream of the suction, or more rarely in a bag downstream, for later disposal. In some cases, the suction mechanism may include multiple propellers or pumps to increase suction power. The filter or bag may also be designed with different materials or structures to capture different sizes or types of debris.

[0006] In some designs, the direction of the robot's movement is controlled by the direction of rotation of the motor that drives the wheels. This can be achieved by reversing the direction of rotation of the motor upon contact with a wall or other obstacle, causing the robot to change direction. In other variations, the robot can use sensors to detect the proximity of walls or obstacles and adjust its direction accordingly.

[0007] Additionally, some pool cleaning robots include sensors or timers to control the direction of rotation of the motor. These may be based on various technologies, such as Hall effect sensors, accelerometers, or timing devices. In some cases, the robot may use other types of sensors, such as optical sensors, ultrasonic sensors, or pressure sensors, to control its movement.

[0008] Additionally, some pool cleaning robots are equipped with interchangeable batteries, allowing for extended operating times. In some cases, the robot may use other types of power sources, such as solar power, or it may include a charging station for automatic recharging.

[0009] Most self-propelled robots use two traction motors, each associated with a track or pair of wheels (right and left). Independent control of each motor then allows the robot to be steered in the desired direction according to a pre-established program.

[0010] Document US7849547 (AquaProducts) describes a self-propelled robotic pool cleaner comprising a first pair of drive brushes and a second pair of idler brushes mounted coaxially for rotation on parallel axes at opposite ends of the cleaner, transverse to the direction of travel. The first pair of brushes is mounted on one side and is driven by a drive motor; the second pair of brushes is mounted on the opposite side of the cleaner.A rotating time-delay clutch is positioned coaxially between each pair of the first and second brushes, such that reversal of the drive motor causes the first pair of driven brushes to temporarily rotate at an angular rotational speed that is greater than that of the second pair of brushes, so that pivoting of the cleaner, following a predetermined angular change of direction, prior to synchronized rotation of the second pair of brushes, is initiated by engagement of the clutch. Following each reversal, the cleaner moves in a new direction, along a generally straight path that is angularly displaced from its first path (zigzag path).

[0011] However, this solution has limited maneuverability due to the presence of the two rollers, at the front and at the rear. In addition, the two motor brushes are placed on one lateral side of the robot, parallel to its direction of movement, and can induce a transverse imbalance of the robot or, at the very least, complicated maneuverability. Summary of the invention

[0012] The present invention aims to overcome all or part of the drawbacks of the prior art set out above by proposing a simple solution for the automatic cleaning of swimming pools with improved handling, maneuverability and suction capacity.

[0013] To this end, the present invention relates to a swimming pool cleaning robot, comprising a chassis, a suction duct surmounting the chassis and opening into a filtration bag placed above, and a propeller placed inside said duct to suck up debris via a suction inlet and discharge it into the filtration bag, the chassis comprising a drive axle towing the robot. This robot is remarkable in that the axle is single and comprises two drive wheels driven by a single motor and an axle connecting said drive wheels transversely to the movement of the robot, in that the motor is configured to reverse its direction of rotation upon contact with a wall, and in that said robot further comprises a third free wheel and a non-return system placed between the suction duct and the filtration bag to prevent debris discharged into said bag from falling back into said duct.

[0014] Indeed, this robot vacuum cleaner, equipped with a chassis with at least three wheels with two drive wheels on the same axis powered by a single motor, offers several technical advantages. Its simplified design reduces manufacturing and maintenance costs. Its improved maneuverability allows it to easily navigate in tight spaces and navigate around obstacles with precision. The increased stability guarantees smooth movement on varied surfaces. In addition, the motor's ability to automatically reverse the direction of rotation upon contact with a wall allows it to identify and avoid obstacles, ensuring smooth cleaning. In short, this configuration optimizes the efficiency and reliability of the robot vacuum cleaner, thus offering a high-performance solution for cleaning swimming pools.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the propeller has a diameter of at least 80 mm, and is said to be “large diameter”.

[0016] Indeed, the choice between a large diameter propeller and a small diameter propeller has direct implications on its efficiency. A large diameter propeller offers several technical advantages. First, it moves a greater quantity of water per revolution, which accelerates circulation in the pool and allows a larger surface area to be cleaned in less time. In addition, thanks to its ability to generate greater suction force, it is more effective at capturing a variety of debris, ranging from leaves to finer debris including sand. This also reduces the risk of clogging, ensuring continuous cleaning without frequent interruptions for unclog the system. Finally, a large-diameter propeller helps reduce the time needed to clean the pool, saving energy and extending the robot's battery life.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the non-return system comprises at least one articulated rigid valve.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the non-return system comprises a valve with several nozzles forming a diaphragm opening during suction and closing when suction stops.

[0019] Advantageously, the third wheel can be self-orientable depending on the direction of movement of the robot, said wheel having at least two different orientations depending on whether the robot is moving forward or backward.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the invention, a drive wheel located on the side opposite the motor is connected to the motor shaft by a delayed clutch mechanism, delaying its rotation relative to the other drive wheel, and thus causing a shift in the alignment of the robot at each change in direction of movement of the robot between forward and reverse.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the axle shaft is mounted to pivot from front to back depending on the direction of rotation of the motor.

[0022] According to embodiments, the vacuum robot may comprise a Hall effect sensor placed on the third wheel, an accelerometer-type inertial sensor or a timer device, all configured to control the direction of rotation of the motor.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the invention, the vacuum robot further comprises two side wheels on one side and the other of the third wheel.

[0024] The fundamental concepts of the invention having just been set out above in their most elementary form, other details and characteristics will emerge more clearly on reading the description which follows and with reference to the appended drawings, giving by way of non-limiting example an embodiment of a vacuum robot for cleaning swimming pools, in accordance with the principles of the invention. Presentation of the drawings

[0025] The figures are given purely for illustrative purposes for a better understanding of the invention without limiting its scope. The various elements may be represented schematically and are not necessarily to scale. Throughout the figures, identical or equivalent elements bear the same numerical reference.

[0026] It is thus illustrated in:

[0027] [Fig.l]: a perspective view from above of a vacuum robot according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0028] [Fig.2]: a perspective view from below of the robot vacuum cleaner showing the propeller of large diameter;

[0029] [Fig.3]: a bottom view of the robot vacuum cleaner;

[0030] [Fig.4]: a rear view of the robot vacuum cleaner;

[0031] [Fig.5]: a side view of the robot vacuum cleaner;

[0032] [Fig.6]: a front view of the robot vacuum cleaner;

[0033] [Fig.7]: a section along plane A - A of [Fig.6];

[0034] [Fig.8]: a top view of the robot vacuum cleaner;

[0035] [Fig.9]: a section along plane B - B of [Fig.8];

[0036] [Fig. 10]: a diagram of the movement of the vacuum robot in a swimming pool, with a delayed drive wheel inducing arcuate parts in the trajectory;

[0037] [Fig. 11]: a partial view of a multi-spout non-return valve. Detailed description of embodiments

[0038] It should be noted that certain technical elements well known to those skilled in the art are recalled here to avoid any insufficiency or ambiguity in the understanding of the present invention.

[0039] In the embodiment described below, reference is made to a swimming pool cleaning robot, mainly intended for the suction of debris deposited at the bottom of a pool. This non-limiting example is given for a better understanding of the invention and does not exclude the adaptation of the robot to other applications such as the cleaning of other types of artificial pools with hard bottoms.

[0040] In the remainder of the description, the term “robot” designates an autonomous vacuum robot for cleaning swimming pools.

[0041] [Fig.l] shows a pool cleaning robot 100 comprising a chassis 10 which constitutes the main supporting structure of the robot. On this chassis 10 is mounted a suction duct 20, through which the debris is sucked up during use of the vacuum robot 100.

[0042] A filtration bag 30, shown in broken lines in [Fig.l], is provided to collect and retain the debris sucked up by the suction duct 20. The chassis 10 is also equipped with a drive axle 11, which supports two coaxial drive wheels: a first drive wheel 111a and a second drive wheel 111b. These drive wheels are driven by a traction motor 50 (not visible in [Fig.l]) to propel the vacuum robot 100.

[0043] The chassis 10 has a flattened portion 12, the design of which may vary according to specific needs, such as reducing water resistance or accommodating other components. A third free wheel 121 is also present, allowing free rotation to improve the maneuverability of the vacuum robot 100. Side wheels 122 are arranged on the sides of the chassis 10 to increase the stability of the robot vacuum cleaner 100 while moving.

[0044] The suction duct 20 further comprises a non-return valve 22, located at the base of the filtration bag 30 to prevent debris from returning to the water after being sucked up.

[0045] The non-return valve 22, according to the embodiment of [Fig.l], comprises two rigid parts articulated on a diametral axis of the conduit 20.

[0046] Alternatively, the non-return valve may comprise a single rigid articulated part.

[0047] [Fig. 2] reveals a perspective view from below of the vacuum robot 100, thus completing the view of [Fig. 1]. This view exposes additional elements essential to the operation of the suction and mobility of the robot.

[0048] Under the vacuum robot 100 is a large diameter propeller 40. The rotation of the propeller 40 generates a water current which facilitates the transport of debris towards the suction duct 20, via a suction inlet 21.

[0049] The axle 112 is a mechanical component that connects the two drive wheels, 111a and 111b, in the drive axle 11. This axle is fundamental for the transmission of the power from the traction motor to the wheels, thus ensuring coordinated and stable propulsion of the vacuum robot 100 on the floor of the swimming pool.

[0050] The suction inlet 21 is the orifice located at the lower part of the suction duct 20. It is through this opening that debris is captured from the bottom of the pool. The suction inlet 21 is designed to maximize the efficiency of the suction while minimizing the risk of blockage by large debris.

[0051] [Fig. 3] shows a bottom view of the vacuum robot 100, highlighting the configuration of the third freewheel 121 and its orientation mechanism. This view is essential for understanding the operation of the third freewheel 121, which plays a key role in the maneuverability of the vacuum robot 100.

[0052] The third freewheel 121 is designed to pivot and adopt at least two distinct orientations, O1 and O2, which are visible in this figure. These orientations correspond respectively to the forward and backward movement modes of the vacuum robot. When the robot moves forward (orientation O1), the freewheel 121 is oriented so as to facilitate this movement, while when it moves backward (orientation O2), the wheel adjusts to allow easy maneuvering in this direction.

[0053] The steering mechanism of the third freewheel 121 is designed to automatically respond to the change of direction of the vacuum robot. This feature improves the navigation of the vacuum robot 100 by allowing it to avoid obstacles and change direction with greater fluidity.

[0054] [Fig.3] also illustrates how the third freewheel 121 is mounted on the chassis 10 of the vacuum robot 100. The wheel is positioned so that it can rotate freely around its axis, which is essential for both orientations 01 and 02.

[0055] Figures 4 and 5 respectively show a rear view and a side view of the vacuum robot 100, highlighting the side wheels 122 and their contribution to the stability of the device. These side wheels 122 are arranged on each side of the third free wheel 121 and are designed to increase the lateral stability of the vacuum robot during its movements.

[0056] The side wheels 122 play a vital role in preventing the vacuum robot 100 from tipping over when moving over uneven surfaces or when changing direction. Their positioning and sizing are designed to provide adequate support without compromising maneuverability or cleaning efficiency.

[0057] In addition, the side wheels 122 may also contribute to the even weight distribution of the vacuum robot 100, which is particularly advantageous when vacuuming debris on slopes or pool contours. This weight distribution ensures that the suction mouth 21 remains in close contact with the pool surface for maximum suction.

[0058] [Fig.7] illustrates a cross-section of the vacuum robot 100 along plane A - A of [Fig.6], revealing internal elements not visible in the exterior views. This cross-sectional view is particularly useful for understanding the arrangement of the internal components and their operation.

[0059] At the heart of the suction system, we find the motor 45 of the propeller 40, which is responsible for the rotation of the propeller. This motor is designed to provide the power necessary to generate a water current sufficient to suck up debris from the bottom of the pool and convey it to the filter bag 30 through the suction duct 20.

[0060] Directly below the impeller 40 is the central deflector 41, a crucial part that serves a dual purpose. First, it prevents debris from accumulating directly beneath the impeller, which could impede its operation and reduce suction efficiency. Second, the central deflector 41 directs the flow of water toward the inner walls of the suction duct 20, helping to propel debris toward the filter bag 30.

[0061] Such a deflector is described in patent EP3832053 in the name of the applicant.

[0062] [Fig.9] shows a section along plane B - B of [Fig.8], providing a detailed view of the internal arrangement of the vacuum robot 100, in particular the propulsion system and the power supply.

[0063] The traction motor 50 is an essential element of the vacuum robot 100, providing the driving force necessary to move the appliance. It is connected to the drive axle 11 and is responsible for driving the drive wheels 11a and 111b. The traction motor 50 is designed to reverse its direction of rotation, which allows the robot as pirate to change direction when encountering an obstacle, such as a pool wall.

[0064] The direction of rotation of the motor 50, and therefore the movement of the robot, may be controlled by various means. In some cases, a Hall sensor on the idler 121 or an accelerometer-type sensor may be used. In other cases, a timer may be used. These control systems may provide the advantage of precise and adaptive control of the movement, improving the robot's ability to automatically and efficiently clean different areas of the pool.

[0065] The electric battery 60 is the power source of the vacuum robot 100. It is placed inside the chassis 10 in a sealed compartment to balance the weight and maximize the stability of the robot during its operation. The electric battery 60 is designed to provide sufficient autonomy to allow the robot to clean a swimming pool without interruption.

[0066] The axle 112 connects the two drive wheels 111a and 111b and plays a fundamental role in transmitting the power of the traction motor 50. A delayed clutch mechanism is integrated into this axle, in particular on the drive wheel 111b located on the side opposite the traction motor 50. This mechanism is designed to delay the rotation of the drive wheel 111b relative to the drive wheel 11a. This delay in the activation of the drive wheel 111b causes a shift in the alignment of the vacuum robot 100 when changing direction between forward and reverse travel, thus inducing arcuate portions in the robot's trajectory, as illustrated in [Fig. 10].

[0067] This design with a delayed clutch mechanism on the axis 112 helps to improve the maneuverability of the vacuum robot 100 and to increase the cleaning efficiency by allowing the robot to cover a larger area of ​​the pool without leaving uncleaned areas.

[0068] [Fig. 10] illustrates a diagram of movement of the vacuum robot 100 at the bottom of a pool 200, highlighting the trajectory followed by the robot during its cleaning operation. The trajectory is characterized by a series of circular arcs AB, which are the direct result of the delayed activation of the delayed drive wheel 111b, extended by rectilinear parts BC.

[0069] The circular arcs AB are generated each time the vacuum robot 100 changes direction, and this over a short period of time relative to the straight portions BC. When the robot is moving forward and it is necessary to change direction, for example after encountering a wall of the swimming pool, the delayed clutch mechanism integrated into the axis 112 delays the rotation of the drive wheel 111b relative to the drive wheel 11a. This delay creates a shift in the alignment of the robot, which induces the robot to follow an arc trajectory AB instead of a tight turn or a straight line direction reversal.

[0070] This arcuate movement characteristic allows the vacuum robot 100 to gradually shift its cleaning direction, thus ensuring better coverage of the bottom of the pool 200. Thanks to this navigation method, the robot is able to clean more efficiently by avoiding going over the same place several times and reducing uncleaned areas. The arcuate trajectory AB therefore contributes to a more uniform distribution of cleaning and a more efficient use of the robot's operating time.

[0071] In sum, [Fig. 10] demonstrates the effectiveness of the delayed clutch mechanism on axis 112 in improving the maneuverability and cleaning coverage of the vacuum robot 100, by illustrating how the circular arcs AB allow the robot to modify its trajectory for complete and systematic coverage of the bottom of the pool 200.

[0072] [Fig. 11] shows an embodiment in which the non-return valve is replaced by a valve 25 with several nozzles 251, acting as a diaphragm.

[0073] Indeed, the diaphragm is composed of several flaps or spouts 251. These spouts 251 are designed to open and close in a synchronized manner to allow the passage of the sucked water loaded with debris in a single direction through the suction duct 20.

[0074] When the robot sucks, the pressure increases in the conduit 20 located upstream of the valve 25. This additional pressure pushes the nozzles 251 of the diaphragm to open, allowing the sucked debris to pass through the conduit to end up in the filtration bag.

[0075] After the "dirty" water passes through the valve and the suction stops, the pressure decreases. This causes the diaphragm nozzles 251 to close, preventing debris from flowing back into the suction line.

Claims

Claims

1. A vacuum robot (100) for cleaning swimming pools, comprising a chassis (10), a suction duct (20) surmounting the chassis and opening into a filtration bag (30) placed above, and a propeller (40) placed inside said duct to suck up debris via a suction inlet (21) and force it into the filtration bag, the chassis comprising a motor axle (11) pulling the robot, said robot being characterized in that the axle (11) is single and comprises two drive wheels (111a, 111b) driven by a single motor (50), and an axle (112) connecting said drive wheels transversely to the movement of the robot, in that the motor (50) is configured to reverse its direction of rotation upon contact with a wall, and in that said robot further comprises a third free wheel (121) and an anti-return system (22,25) placed between the suction duct (20) and the filtration bag (30) to prevent debris forced into said bag from falling back into said duct.,

2. A vacuum robot according to claim 1, wherein the non-return system comprises at least one articulated rigid valve (22).

3. A vacuum cleaner robot according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the non-return system comprises a valve (25) with several nozzles (251) forming a diaphragm opening during suction and closing when suction stops.

4. A vacuum robot according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the third wheel (121) is self-orientable depending on the direction of movement of the robot, said wheel having at least two different orientations (01, 02) depending on whether the robot is moving forward or backward.

5. A vacuum cleaner robot according to any preceding claim, wherein a drive wheel (111b) located on the opposite side to the motor (50) is connected to the motor shaft (112) by a delayed clutch mechanism, delaying its rotation relative to the other drive wheel (11a), and thus causing a shift in the alignment of the robot each time the direction of movement of the robot changes between forward and reverse.

6. A vacuum cleaner robot according to any preceding claim, wherein the axis (112) of the axle (11) is pivotally mounted back and forth depending on the direction of rotation of the motor (50).

7. A vacuum robot according to claim 1, comprising a Hall effect sensor placed on the third wheel (121) and configured to control the direction of rotation of the motor (50).

8. A vacuum robot according to claim 1, comprising an accelerometer-type inertial sensor configured to control the direction of rotation of the motor (50).

9. A robot vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, comprising a timer device configured to control the direction of rotation of the motor (50).

10. A vacuum cleaner robot according to any preceding claim, further comprising two side wheels (122) on one side and the other of the third wheel (121).

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