AUTOMATIC REFRIGERATOR SHELF CLEANING ROBOT

Abstract

The invention relates to a compact cleaning robot designed to automatically clean spills, stains, liquid accumulations, and food residues from refrigerator shelves without requiring user intervention. The robot is equipped with a magnetic rubber wheel mechanism to prevent slipping on glass surfaces, an optical sensing sensor to detect dirt and liquids on the surface, a microfiber squeegee pad that mechanically cleans the surface, a vacuum waste container that collects loosened dirt and liquids, and a spray unit that applies a thin layer of cleaning liquid to the surface. After cleaning is complete, a UV-C disinfection module is activated to enhance the hygiene level of the surface. All functions of the robot are managed by a control unit housed in an insulated housing resistant to cold environments. Positioning sensors enable the robot to detect shelf boundaries and create a safe cleaning route.When the robot finishes its task, it automatically returns to its charging station, ready for the next use. These features work together to create an innovative system that performs refrigerator interior cleaning fully automatically, hygienically, quickly, and independently of the user.

Description

AUTOMATIC REFRIGERATOR SHELF CLEANING ROBOT TECHNICAL FIELD The invention protects against spills, dirt, liquid leaks, and other problems on glass shelves inside a refrigerator. bacterial accumulations are automatically detected without user intervention. Cleaning, suitable for working in cold environments, magnetically gripped movement. 10 mechanism, optical pollution detection sensors, microfiber squeegee pad, vacuum It has a waste collection, spray / vapor blasting and UV-C disinfection module. It relates to compact cleaning robots. PREVIOUS TECHNIQUE 1) Refrigerator interior cleaning is now entirely done manually by the user. It is a practice carried out as follows. In current usage habits, Spills, food residue, and liquid overflows on refrigerator shelves, For cleaning fruit juice stains, sauce residue and sticky substances.  Users completely remove, wash, or wipe the shelves in place This is necessary. This situation is both time-consuming and ergonomically challenging. It is a process that occurs, especially when removing glass shelves from the refrigerator. The risk of breakage causes users to delay the cleaning process and allows dirt to accumulate even further. It causes it to harden. 3 When examining the cleaning robots and surface cleaning devices available on the market, Most of these are suitable for narrow, cold, and slippery surfaces like the inside of a refrigerator. It appears that this is not the case. Existing robots are generally used on large surfaces, in rooms. systems that operate at high temperatures and have a low adhesion coefficient on glass shelves. Resistance to electronic performance degradation caused by 3° and cold environments. It cannot show. In addition, a significant portion of existing automatic cleaning devices use liquids.  detecting spills, analyzing surface condition, or determining dirt density It does not have advanced sensor systems, such as those for creating a cleaning strategy. In known techniques, special wheel structures are used to prevent sliding on the glass surface.  Specially insulated housing structures for low-temperature operation or to prevent odor and bacteria. A cleaning system integrated with UV-C based hygiene modules that prevent the formation of new particles. There is no solution. Therefore, users should especially consider the contents of the refrigerator. Even the smallest spills must be cleaned up manually. Also, some stains may appear over time due to the humid and cold conditions inside the cupboard. 10 sticks to the surface, making cleaning even more difficult. From this perspective, there are many options on the market for automatic refrigerator cleaning systems. Compact, cold-resistant, with multi-stage cleaning processes, and intelligent. It appears that there is no product available that works with sensors. Existing solutions are for the user. It does not fully meet the needs and hygiene requirements. It falls short in this respect. The most common problem encountered when cleaning the inside of a refrigerator is the dirt that accumulates on the shelves, and The hair loss can become permanent unless noticed by the user, and this  This situation can lead to bad odors, bacterial buildup, and deterioration of food hygiene over time. This is because spills dry and adhere to the surface over time, making cleaning difficult. More force, chemicals, and time are required, which is a problem for the user. This creates a laborious process, especially in restaurants, cafes, and heavily used areas. In commercial kitchens, this situation becomes even more critical from a hygiene perspective. 3 Cleaning in cold environments presents technical challenges for both users and equipment. This creates motor performance issues at low temperatures in existing cleaning devices. symptoms such as battery drop, decreased battery capacity, odor, and moisture condensation. They encounter problems. Also, due to the slippery nature of the glass surface. 30 The robots' progress becomes difficult, directional stability is disrupted, and the device's movement on the surface is impaired. It is not possible for it to adhere firmly. Therefore, on the interior surfaces of the refrigerator... Ensuring safe and controlled movement is not possible with current technology.  Current cleaning methods are unable to automatically detect liquid spills. This is a significant problem. When the user doesn't notice the spill, the dirt remains on the shelf for a long time. It remains on the surface. Robots or cleaning devices involved in known techniques, glare, optical sensors that can analyze reflection, liquid accumulation, or stain density It does not have this capability. Therefore, these devices cannot make autonomous decisions and correct choices inside the refrigerator. They cannot initiate the cleaning cycle. Another significant problem is that the cleaning process is limited to a single method. 10 Wiping only, spraying only, or vacuuming only processes for refrigerator shelves. It is not sufficient for the complex types of dirt that have accumulated on it, especially on fruit. Sticky substances like water, milk, jam, and sauces require a multi-stage cleaning cycle. This requires integrating this hybrid cleaning approach into a single compact device using known techniques. There is no unifying system available. 1) Consequently, due to the aforementioned drawbacks and shortcomings, the relevant The need for an innovation in the technical field has arisen.  THE PURPOSE OF THE INVENTION The overall purpose of the invention is to create a complete system that meets the requirements mentioned above. Especially refrigerators, which eliminate disadvantages and bring some additional advantages. spills, dirt, liquid leaks and bacterial buildup on the glass shelves inside. Automatically cleans without requiring user intervention, cold Suitable for use in various environments, with a magnetic grip movement mechanism and optical sensors. pollution detection sensors, microfiber squeegee pads, vacuum waste collection, Compact cleaning unit with spray / steam dispensing and UV-C disinfection module. It is related to robot 10. Due to the drawbacks of the previous technique, the invention, as described above, It aims to resolve the negative aspects. 1) The main purpose of this invention is to prevent all kinds of spills and liquids from forming on refrigerator shelves. the accumulation of food residue, sticky substances and microorganisms by the user with smart sensors that can clean automatically without requiring any intervention a working, cold-resistant and compact shelf cleaning robot The goal is to improve it. To this end, the robot analyzes the shelf surface and cleans it.  identifies the area requiring cleaning, selects the appropriate cleaning cycle, and completes the process It offers a complementary automation system. Another important purpose of the invention is to address the problems encountered during manual shelf cleaning. The goal is to eliminate the difficulties. In traditional cleaning methods, users 3. Removing shelves from the cabinet, working in a cold environment, dried-on glass surface and requires performing laborious operations such as scraping off adhered dirt. The invention addresses this. by automating the tasks, it saves the user from physical workload and wasted time. and aims to eliminate hygiene risks, especially for the elderly, those who work intensely, or This provides a significant convenience for users who cannot dedicate time to the cleaning process.  The robot's compact design allows it to move between refrigerator shelves. It can move easily in limited height and narrow spaces and fits all shelf surfaces.  This allows the user to completely empty or disassemble the shelf. It enables the cleaning process to be performed by the robot without the need for manual intervention. The invention also... The motor, which operates smoothly at low temperatures, has an electronic and mechanical design. Therefore, it aims to offer a customized solution suitable for the internal conditions of a refrigerator.  Another aim of the invention is to automatically determine the appropriate cleaning method according to the type of dirt. The goal is to provide a multi-stage cleaning system with selectable options: spray / steam jetting. Wiping and vacuuming operations are combined in a single device; adhesive, A cleaning process optimized for dried, liquid, or solid dirt. 10 has been created. Thus, the user can achieve not only superficial cleaning but also thorough cleaning. and achieves an effective cleaning result. The robot's UV-C module is one of the key objectives of the invention. The cleaning process subsequently eliminates the risk of bacteria, yeast, mold, and microorganisms remaining on the surface. The aim is to remove 1 and raise the hygiene standard inside the refrigerator. This This module provides crucial safety, especially in glass shelves that come into direct contact with food. It provides an advantage. To fulfill all the purposes stated above and those that can be derived from the detailed explanation. The invention, which aims to bring about 30, relates to an automatic refrigerator shelf cleaning robot.   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The invention addresses spills, stains, liquid buildup, and food buildup on refrigerator shelves. Automatically cleans residue without requiring user intervention. This relates to a compact cleaning robot designed for glass surfaces. Magnetic rubber wheel mechanism to prevent slipping, dirt on the surface and an optical detection sensor that detects the liquid, mechanically cleaning the surface. microfiber squeegee pad, vacuum waste container that collects loosened dirt and liquid, and a spray that applies the necessary cleaning liquid to the surface in a thin layer Equipped with a 10 unit. After cleaning is complete, the surface's hygiene level is checked. To enhance this, a UV-C disinfection module is activated. The entire robot... Its functions are controlled by a system housed in an insulated casing resistant to cold environmental conditions. It is managed by the unit. Positioning sensors guide the robot to the shelf boundaries. It enables the robot to detect and create a safe cleaning route. The robot completes its task. When it's finished, it automatically returns to the charging station, ready for the next use. This happens. These features work together to complete the refrigerator interior cleaning process. innovative, automatic, hygienic, fast and user-independent operation. It establishes a system. 60 The general purpose of the invention is to produce a complete system that satisfies the requirements mentioned above. Especially refrigerators, which eliminate disadvantages and bring some additional advantages. spills, dirt, liquid leaks and bacterial buildup on the glass shelves inside Automatically cleans without requiring user intervention, cold Suitable for use in various environments, with a magnetic grip movement mechanism and optical sensors. 3. pollution detection sensors, microfiber squeegee pads, vacuum waste collection, Compact cleaning unit with spray / steam dispensing and UV-C disinfection module. It is related to the robot. Due to the drawbacks of the previous technique, the invention, as described above, It aims to resolve 30 negative issues.   Wheel Mechanism (Magnetic Rubber Wheels): The wheel mechanism, magnetic, which allows the robot to move safely on the glass shelf surface. It is a hybrid structure consisting of a core and a rubber coating with a high friction coefficient. The low temperature inside the refrigerator, combined with the moisture and slipperiness of the glass surface, activates the robot. Because it makes it difficult to grip, these wheels have a special anti-slip structure. It is designed so that magnetic attraction increases the contact pressure of the robot with the surface, thus stabilizing it. It provides mobility; the rubber coating provides high grip without damaging the surface. This mechanism supports straight-line movement, turns, and edge detection. This enables the robot to operate without losing balance in these situations. 10 Optical Liquid Detection Sensor: The optical liquid detection sensor detects liquid forming on the shelf. Light refraction and spillage, glare, reflection, stains or surface anomalies. It detects based on differences in reflection. The sensor identifies clean and dirty areas on the surface. It is designed with a level of accuracy that can distinguish between them. The liquid film layer provides intense glare and 1. Color differences are analyzed by the sensor and the robot's cleaning cycle is adjusted accordingly. The sensor also measures the dirt density, enabling the robot to start the process. This directs the robot to make multiple cleaning passes over the area. Thus, the robot only It provides energy savings and targeted cleaning by focusing on the necessary areas. 6. Wiper Pad Module (Microfiber Wiping Unit): The wiper pad module is located at the bottom of the robot. It consists of a highly absorbent microfiber pad structure placed on its surface. The pad applies a mechanical wiping action on the glass surface as the robot moves, and physically identifying situations such as spilled liquid, surface dust, and stuck food residue. It collects. Thanks to the pressure-equalizing structures located under the pad, it provides optimal surface coverage. 6 pressures are applied; this ensures maximum cleaning without damaging the glass surface. This is provided. The pad can be removed and washed by the user when necessary, or... It is designed to be interchangeable. Vacuum Waste Container (Mini Vacuum Module): The vacuum waste container is controlled by a pad. 30 Mini vacuum cleaner to prevent loosened dirt and liquids from spreading back to the surface. It is a compact collection system powered by a motor. Dissolves after spraying. Dirt and liquid deposits are drawn into the container via the vacuum nozzle at the bottom of the robot.  It is drawn out. As the reservoir fills, the sensing sensor sends a signal to the control unit and The user is given a warning. This system ensures the cleaning cycle is hygienic. It ensures completion and prevents dirty liquid from accumulating inside the refrigerator. Spray Unit (Spray / Vapor Module): The spray unit consists of a low-pressure system. The micropump consists of a liquid reservoir and a nozzle system. The motor cleans the liquid in the reservoir. by spraying the liquid onto the glass surface in a very thin layer, dried or It helps soften stubborn dirt. The mini unit can operate at a low temperature when needed. In resistance-heated models, a light steam is generated, especially for jams, fruit juices, and syrups. This unit facilitates the dissolution of residues such as 10. The purpose of this unit is to wipe and vacuum the surface. The goal is to bring it to an optimum state. UV-C Disinfection Module: The UV-C disinfection module facilitates the cleaning process. microorganisms, bacteria, and mold spores remaining on the surface after completion 1) Low-power wide-angle UV-C LED light sources to neutralize it. It uses UV-C wavelength in the 260–280 nm range and targets the DNA of microorganisms. It stops them from multiplying by disrupting their structure. This module will operate in a cold environment. It has a special heat distribution structure. UV-C application after cleaning. It not only ensures hygiene, but also prevents the formation of bad odors. 20 obstacles. Cold Environment Housing (Insulated Low Profile Housing): Cold environment housing, heat is required so that the robot can operate safely in the low-temperature conditions of the refrigerator. It is manufactured with insulation, moisture resistance, and a short profile. The body structure is made of ABS. Made of 3 or similar impact-resistant plastic with electronic components on the inner surface. It has an insulation layer that protects against the cold. The low-profile design allows the robot to sit on shelves. This allows for smooth movement within a limited height range. Additionally, the outer surface of the body... It is equipped with an anti-condensation coating. 30 Control Unit (MCU + Sensor and Motor Drivers): The control unit is the brain of the robot. It is characterized by its use of optical sensors, positioning sensors, and vacuum occupancy sensors. Cleaning by processing all data from the sensor and battery module.  It manages the algorithm. The MCU drives the wheel motors and activates the injection module. It activates the vacuum and engages the UV-C module at the correct timing. It also optimizes the cleaning route, preventing the robot from making unnecessary movements. It minimizes obstacles and energy consumption. When the task is complete, the robot... The command sequence that directs the device to the charging station is also managed from this unit. Charging Station (Dock Unit): The charging station charges the robot after it has completed its task. It is a stationary unit that rotates and automatically receives energy. On the station Magnetic alignment surfaces are present; the magnetic field activates as the robot approaches the station. The 10-shot is directed to the correct position. USB-C or low-voltage fixed connector. Charging is provided via the station. Additionally, the station allows the robot to enter "standby mode". By managing it, you both preserve battery life and ensure the device is always ready for use. It includes a control protocol that ensures this. 1. Positioning Sensors (IR + Side Wall Sensors): Positioning sensors used to enable the robot to detect shelf boundaries, edges, and obstacles inside cabinets. It consists of infrared (IR) and sidewall proximity sensors. These sensors Thanks to this, the robot can change direction without the risk of falling when it reaches the edge of the shelf. In addition, the necessary data flow for surface mapping is determined when defining the cleaning route.  provides. Positioning sensors continuously send data to the control unit, enabling the robot to... It prevents collisions or spills outside the shelf boundary. How the Invention Works While the robot is in standby position on the refrigerator shelf, it is controlled by the control unit.  Monitors in low power mode. Liquid, glare or stains on the shelf surface. When this occurs, the optical detection sensor detects the soiled area and initiates the cleaning cycle. It starts automatically. The robot uses a magnetic rubber wheel mechanism. Thanks to this feature, it moves across the glass surface without slipping and heads towards the dirty area. When dirt is detected, the robot first activates the spraying unit and applies it to the surface. It applies a thin layer of cleaning liquid or low-temperature steam. This process removes dried-on liquid. or facilitates the dissolution of sticky dirt. Then, as the robot moves, the bottom 10  The microfiber squeegee pad on the surface mechanically cleans the surface and removes residue. balls. The mixture of liquid and dirt that loosens during cleaning collects in the mini compartment located under the robot. The waste is drawn into the vacuum waste container by the vacuum module. This prevents the dirt from being removed again. Spreading on the surface is prevented. The control unit processes the data from the sensors. It allows for a second passage through the same area if necessary. Once surface cleaning is complete, the robot briefly performs UV-C disinfection. It activates module 10 and ensures that the cleaned area is hygienically sterilized. When the process is complete, the robot uses its positioning sensors to move the charger to the edge of the shelf. It returns to its station, sits correctly with magnetic alignment, and waits. It switches to mode. 1) To fulfill all the purposes stated above and those that can be derived from the detailed explanation. The invention in question relates to an automatic refrigerator shelf cleaning robot.

Claims

1. Invention; spills, dirt, and liquid leaks on glass shelves inside refrigerators. and bacterial accumulations automatically without requiring user intervention. It is a cleaning robot that cleans as described above, and its features include: — Magnetic rubber wheels that provide grip on glass surfaces mechanism, — optical fluid / dirt detector that enables the detection of the presence of liquid and dirt on the shelf. 10 detection sensor, — microfiber squeegee pad that enables mechanical wiping of the surface. module, — vacuum waste system that collects loosened dirt and liquid. reservoir, 1) — enables the application of liquid or vapor to dissolve dirt. spraying unit, — UV-C that provides hygiene to the surface after cleaning. disinfection module — insulation that protects electronic components in cold environments  cold environment body, — a control that allows all the robot's functions to be managed unit, — enables the robot to automatically switch to power when cleaning is finished. charging station,  — the robot's ability to detect shelf boundaries and move safely. It is characterized by containing a positioning sensor that provides this functionality. is being done. 30 12  2. According to Claim 1, spills, dirt, and liquids on the glass shelves inside the refrigerator... leakage and bacterial buildup can be prevented without user intervention. It is a cleaning robot that cleans automatically, and its features include:  — multiple passes over the same area depending on the dirt density of the robot. It is characterized by containing a control algorithm that enables it to do so. is being done.

3. According to Claim 1, spills, dirt, and liquids on the glass shelves inside the refrigerator. 10 leaks and bacterial accumulations can be prevented without user intervention. It is a cleaning robot that cleans automatically, and its features include: — elastomer that prevents wheel hardening at low temperatures It includes magnetic rubber wheels that enable the use of the coating. It is characterized by 1.

4. According to Claim 1, spills, dirt, and liquids on the glass shelves inside the refrigerator. leakage and bacterial buildup can be prevented without user intervention. It is a cleaning robot that cleans automatically, and its features include:  — ensuring optimum pressure is applied to the surface during the wiping process. It is characterized by containing a spring-supported pad carrier that provides support. is being done.

5. According to Claim 1, spills, dirt, and liquids on the glass shelves inside the refrigerator... leakage and bacterial buildup can be prevented without user intervention. It is a cleaning robot that cleans automatically, and its features include: — micro-cleaners that ensure homogeneous distribution of cleaning liquid on the surface. It is characterized by containing a 30 nozzle system. 13  6. According to Claim 1, spills, dirt, and liquids on the glass shelves inside the refrigerator... leakage and bacterial buildup can be prevented without user intervention. It is a cleaning robot that cleans automatically, and its features include:  — fill level, which allows the determination of the waste container's fullness. It is characterized by containing a sensor.

7. According to Claim 1, spills, dirt, and liquids on the glass shelves inside the refrigerator. leakage and bacterial buildup can be prevented without user intervention. 10 is an automatic cleaning robot, its feature is; — wide-angle UV that enables sterilization of a large area of ​​surface. It is characterized by containing a C-shaped LED array.

8. According to Claim 1, spills, dirt, and liquids on the glass shelves inside the refrigerator... leakage and bacterial buildup can be prevented without user intervention. It is a cleaning robot that cleans automatically, and its features include: — boundary detection that prevents the robot from falling off the shelf edge It is characterized by containing IR-based positioning sensors that provide . is being done.

9. According to Claim 1, spills, dirt, and liquids on the glass shelves inside the refrigerator... leakage and bacterial buildup can be prevented without user intervention. 3 is an automatic cleaning robot, its feature is; — magnetic that ensures the robot aligns correctly with the charging station. It is characterized by its inclusion of a steering mechanism. 14  10. According to Claim 1, spills, dirt, and liquids on the glass shelves inside the refrigerator... leakage and bacterial buildup can be prevented without user intervention. It is a cleaning robot that cleans automatically, and its features include:  — magnetic that ensures the robot aligns correctly with the charging station. It is characterized by its inclusion of a steering mechanism.