Self-cleaning surface system and cleaning method

Abstract

A self-cleaning surface system comprising: one or more rotatable bodies (19); a support structure (3) supporting the one or more rotatable bodies, wherein the one or more rotatable bodies are configured to rotate about a corresponding rotation axis with respect to the support structure, the one or more rotatable bodies having a corresponding cleanable surface (1) parallel to the corresponding rotation axis configured to rotate from facing a first direction to facing a second direction with the corresponding rotatable body, and vice versa; a rotation mechanism; a cleaning mechanism comprising a cleaning fluid ejection mechanism; and an activation mechanism, wherein the cleaning fluid ejection mechanism, when activated, is arranged to eject cleaning fluid towards the one or more cleanable surfaces when the one or more cleanable surfaces face the second direction.

Description

Self-cleaning surface systems and cleaning methods Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to cleaning systems, and more specifically, to self-cleaning surface systems. The invention also relates to a method for self-cleaning the surface of a system. The cleaning system or self-cleaning system is preferably automatic. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document CN107204157A discloses a rotating advertising board with foam spraying function. The rotating advertising board includes: a tank and multiple rotatable triangular rotating bodies arranged parallel to each other within the tank, each rotating body having a triangular cross-section; a storage plate disposed between the tank and the triangular rotating bodies; and multiple spraying devices arranged in a matrix on the storage plate. The rotating advertising board using this structure can achieve fully automatic cleaning, eliminating the need for manual cleaning and thus avoiding the risks associated with outdoor operations.

[0003] Utility model document CN213183449U discloses a waterproof and dustproof billboard. The billboard includes a shell, an advertising display device, and an advertising cleaning device. A fixing rod is installed on one side of the shell, and a rotating rod is installed on the outer side of the fixing rod. Solar panels are installed on the top of the fixing rod and the rotating rod, respectively. A drainage groove is formed on the outer wall of the solar panel.

[0004] Utility model document CN212647818U discloses an integrated replaceable advertising board. The advertising board includes a box-shaped body, a frame fixedly connected to the upper surface of the box-shaped body, four first support members clamped to the upper surface of the upper surface of the box-shaped body and the upper surface of the inner wall of the frame, a first rotating shaft sleeved with four pairs of first support members, and the bottom ends of the four first rotating shafts fixedly connected to transmission wheels.

[0005] Existing surface cleaning solutions require personnel or external cleaning systems (such as cleaning robots). For example, the cleaning process for a dirty floor can be done by cleaning personnel, cleaning robots, or a combination of both. Furthermore, the facility is often unavailable while cleaning a dirty surface. Although cleaning personnel can perform the cleaning procedure correctly, the cleanliness of the floor cannot be guaranteed. The next person to use a clean surface may immediately soil it again. This invention addresses all areas involving humans or animals and dirty surfaces. There are two main drawbacks to known surface cleaning methods. First, surfaces do not clean themselves automatically; second, after cleaning by personnel or external cleaning systems, no one can guarantee the cleanliness of these surfaces. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. As used herein, “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include both plural and singular forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including” as used in this specification designate the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. It should also be understood that terms, such as those defined in common dictionaries, should be interpreted as having the meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant field and in the context of this disclosure, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal manner unless expressly defined herein. In describing the invention, it should be understood that numerous techniques and steps are disclosed. Each of these techniques and steps has its own advantages, and each can also be used in combination with one or more, or in some cases, all other disclosed techniques. Therefore, for clarity, this description will avoid unnecessarily repeating every possible combination of the steps. However, it should be understood upon reading the specification and claims that such combinations are fully within the scope of the invention and the claims.

[0007] According to various embodiments, a self-cleaning surface system is provided. A method for self-cleaning the surface of said system is also provided.

[0008] This invention relates to a self-cleaning surface system and a method for cleaning the surface thereon. More specifically, this invention relates to a system that automatically or manually activates a cleaning mechanism that rotates the surface in a specific sequence to clean its own dirty surface. More specifically, this invention relates to a system capable of turning a dirty surface into a clean surface.

[0009] This invention can be applied to floors, walls, kitchen countertops or food processing surfaces, tables, or any surface that requires continuous cleaning and disinfection. When someone uses the surface and soils it, the system's controller signals a motor to flip the soiled surface and bring out a clean one. In this way, the surface can be cleaned, disinfected, and ready for use. The system can operate according to its programmed rotation sequence, which can be started automatically or manually.

[0010] A first aspect of the invention relates to a self-cleaning surface system comprising: one or more rotatable bodies; a support structure supporting the one or more rotatable bodies, wherein the one or more rotatable bodies are configured to rotate relative to the support structure about a corresponding axis of rotation, the one or more rotatable bodies having corresponding cleanable surfaces parallel to the corresponding axes of rotation, and the cleanable surfaces being configured to rotate together with the corresponding rotatable bodies from facing a first direction to facing a second direction and from facing the second direction to facing the first direction, the first direction being opposite to the second direction; a rotation mechanism configured to rotate the one or more rotatable bodies; a cleaning mechanism including a cleaning fluid jetting mechanism; and an activation mechanism configured to activate the cleaning fluid jetting mechanism when each cleanable surface faces the second direction, wherein the cleaning fluid jetting mechanism, when activated, is arranged to jet cleaning fluid toward the one or more cleanable surfaces when the one or more cleanable surfaces face the second direction.

[0011] The rotatable body of this invention allows a cleanable surface to rotate from facing a first direction to facing a second direction. When facing the first direction, the cleanable surface is in an operating position; when facing the second direction, it is in a cleaning position. When the cleanable surface faces or points towards the first direction, it is usable by the user and may become dirty. When the rotatable body rotates to the position where the cleanable surface faces or points towards the second direction, the cleaning mechanism can be activated, and a cleaning fluid jet mechanism cleans the dirt on the cleanable surface. Afterward, the rotatable body can rotate again, and the cleanable surface can face the first direction and be ready for use after cleaning and / or disinfection. The rotatable body may also be referred to as a "profile".

[0012] The rotatable bodies are configured to rotate about corresponding axes of rotation relative to the supporting structures. The corresponding axis of rotation for each rotatable body is parallel to the cleanable surface and can be located at different distances from the cleanable surface, which can result in different radii of rotation for the cleanable surface. The supporting structures correspond to any structural members that provide attachment and support points for the rotatable bodies, wherein the supporting structures may include any other elements providing rotatable connections to the profiles.

[0013] One or more rotatable bodies have cleanable surfaces configured such that, when the rotatable bodies rotate, the cleanable surfaces can change their position from facing a first direction to facing a second direction and from facing the second direction to facing the first direction, wherein the first direction is opposite to the second direction. Rotation between the first position facing the first direction and the second position facing the second direction can be achieved by a 180-degree rotation.

[0014] The rotating mechanism provides movement to the rotatable, cleanable surface of the rotatable body from a first orientation to a second orientation. The cleaning mechanism includes a cleaning fluid jetting mechanism configured to jet fluid onto one or more cleanable surfaces pointing towards or facing the second orientation—i.e., when the cleanable surface is in the second position. The cleaning mechanism can clean all cleanable surfaces of one or more rotatable bodies simultaneously, or it can clean one or more cleanable surfaces sequentially. The cleaning fluid jetting mechanism can be configured to act towards a fixed area of ​​the cleanable surface. The cleaning jetting mechanism can also be movable to act on different areas of the cleanable surface during the cleaning process.

[0015] The activation mechanism is configured to activate the fluid jetting mechanism when each of one or more cleanable surfaces faces or points in a second direction, i.e., when the cleanable surfaces are in a second position. The activation mechanism may include any type of sensor, such as a proximity sensor, pressure sensor, position sensor, touch sensor, or other sensor, which can provide a safety mechanism for the user of the self-cleaning surface system to prevent operation when any user or obstacle is on or near the top of the system's cleanable surfaces. The activation mechanism may include a controller for establishing and executing a sequence for cleaning the cleanable surfaces. The controller may also initiate rotation of the rotatable body before or after cleaning the cleanable surfaces. In one embodiment, the activation mechanism of the self-cleaning surface mechanism may include a syringe configured to regulate the liquid jetting, and preferably, the syringe includes one or more electric valves.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, each rotatable body of the self-cleaning surface system may include an additional cleanable surface opposite to the corresponding cleanable surface, wherein the additional cleanable surface may be configured such that: when the corresponding cleanable surface faces a first direction, the additional cleanable surface faces a second direction; and when the corresponding cleanable surface faces the second direction, the additional cleanable surface faces the first direction, and wherein, when activated, the cleaning fluid jetting mechanism is arranged to jet cleaning fluid toward any of the cleanable surfaces of one or more rotatable bodies facing the second direction. The corresponding cleanable surface of each rotatable body may also be referred to as the first cleanable surface, and the additional cleanable surface of each rotatable body may also be referred to as the second cleanable surface. This configuration allows for a second cleanable surface facing the first direction when the first cleanable surface faces the second direction. In other words, this configuration allows the second cleanable surface to be conveniently used by the user of the surface while the cleaning mechanism cleans the first cleanable surface. Thus, when the corresponding or first cleanable surface becomes dirty, the rotatable body can rotate the first cleanable surface from a first position to a second position, thereby moving the second cleanable surface to a second position, i.e., exchanging the positions of the first and second cleanable surfaces. In embodiments where the self-cleaning surface system is part of the floor, the first cleanable surface may be located on top, followed by the rotatable body, the second cleanable surface, and the cleaning system; or, if the rotatable body rotates due to the first cleanable surface becoming dirty, the positions of the first and second cleanable surfaces may be interchanged, thereby enabling the second cleanable surface to be used as the floor while cleaning the first cleanable surface.

[0017] In embodiments of the invention, one or more rotatable bodies may include an elongated beam and two flat bodies located at the distal ends of the rotatable body, the flat bodies being parallel to each other. Also referred to as profile rotatable bodies, they may have an I-beam or H-beam cross-section. One or more profiles may have any shape or size, and be made of any material having sufficient rigidity to meet the purposes of the invention, such as metal alloys or polymeric materials. The flat bodies may include a cleanable surface suitable for cleaning with cleaning liquids or cleaning and disinfecting solutions, or the flat bodies may be made entirely of a cleanable material suitable for the same purpose.

[0018] According to an embodiment, a self-cleaning surface system may include a plurality of rotatable bodies arranged adjacent to each other, wherein a cross-sectional geometry of each rotatable body intersects with a cleanable surface, and preferably, the cross-section of the geometry is perpendicular to the cleanable surface. Each rotatable body includes a recess configured such that, when the rotatable body rotates, the recess allows a cleanable surface of each rotatable body to at least partially fit into or pass through a recess of a cleanable surface of an adjacent rotatable body. That is, the cleanable surfaces of the self-cleaning surface system can be adjacent to each other and arranged to form a continuous cleanable surface, wherein each rotatable body can rotate along its cross-sectional geometry due to the recess. The recess prevents rotatable bodies from colliding with adjacent rotatable bodies during rotation. Advantageously, arranging the cleanable surfaces adjacent to each other allows for a larger area of ​​cleanable surface while avoiding excessive gaps between the cleanable surfaces.

[0019] In an embodiment, the rotation mechanism of the self-cleaning surface system may further include one or more motors configured to rotate the rotatable bodies, wherein each rotatable body is located at a corresponding odd or even position in a position sequence, with each even position in the position sequence adjacent to a corresponding odd position. One or more motors may be configured to rotate the rotatable bodies, which may be adjacent to each other. Each rotatable body may be located at an even or odd position. The even and odd positions are assigned sequentially from the first rotatable body in the sequence to the last, or vice versa. For example, if the self-cleaning surface system comprises seven profiles, then three rotatable bodies are positioned at even positions and four at odd positions. Thus, it is clear that an even position in the sequence is followed by an odd position, and vice versa, unless the odd or even position is at the end of the position sequence.

[0020] According to another embodiment, the rotation mechanism of the self-cleaning surface system may include two motors, wherein one motor is configured to rotate a rotatable body located at a corresponding odd-numbered position, and the other motor is configured to rotate a rotatable body located at a corresponding even-numbered position. Thus, the motors can be configured to provide motion to the rotatable bodies located at either even or odd-numbered positions. This achieves independent rotation of the rotatable bodies, thereby enabling independent rotation of the cleanable surface at even and odd-numbered positions. In other embodiments, the two motors may be configured to first rotate all rotatable bodies located at corresponding odd-numbered positions, and then rotate all rotatable bodies located at corresponding even-numbered positions; or, the two motors may be configured to first rotate all rotatable bodies located at corresponding even-numbered positions, and then rotate all rotatable bodies located at corresponding odd-numbered positions. Therefore, the rotatable bodies can rotate alternately if desired. Regarding adjacent rotatable bodies, the combination of recesses along the cross-sectional geometry of each rotatable body, which intersects and is preferably perpendicular to the cleanable surface, allows for rotation of the rotatable bodies and alternating rotation, thereby completely avoiding collisions between adjacent rotatable bodies during system operation. Alternating rotation of the rotatable bodies can be initiated by first rotating all rotatable bodies at even positions and then rotating those at odd positions; or alternating rotation of the rotatable bodies can be initiated by first rotating all rotatable bodies at odd positions and then rotating those at even positions.

[0021] In embodiments, the rotating mechanism may further include one or more worm gear drives, wherein the one or more worm gear drives may be configured to transmit motion from the motor to the rotatable body. A worm gear drive is also called a worm transmission mechanism. A worm drive device may include a worm and a worm wheel; the worm is a gear in the form of a screw, and the worm wheel resembles a spur gear in appearance.

[0022] In embodiments, the rotation mechanism of the self-cleaning surface system may further include gears, wherein the gears may be configured to transmit motion from a motor to the rotatable body, and preferably, the gears are Geneva gears. Geneva gears—also known as Geneva gear mechanisms—may include a drive gear and a driven gear. Geneva gears can convert continuous motion from the motor into discontinuous motion, which is then transmitted to the rotatable body. Rotation of the Geneva gear is preferably performed by a series of 90-degree rotations. Then, if a 180-degree rotation is desired to rotate the cleanable surface from facing a first direction to facing a second direction, two sequential and discontinuous 90-degree rotations are performed. The system can also work with the continuous motion of standard gears and profiles; however, a locking system may be needed to lock the position of the rotatable body for better system performance. A self-cleaning surface system including Geneva gears for transmitting motion from the motor to the rotatable body avoids the need for locking systems to lock the profile position, meaning that the Geneva gears can lock certain positions of the rotatable body during rotation.

[0023] In one embodiment, the self-cleaning surface system may further include a drive chain connected to gears and configured to transmit motion from a motor to the gears.

[0024] In one embodiment, the self-cleaning surface system may further include at least one timing belt, wherein the timing belt is connected to a gear and configured to transmit motion from the motor to the gear. In another embodiment, the timing belt may distribute motion from the motor to the rotatable body, wherein one timing belt may transmit motion from a first motor to the rotatable body at even-numbered positions, while another timing belt may transmit motion from a second motor to the rotatable body at odd-numbered positions. In another embodiment, the self-cleaning surface system may further include a belt tensioner and a guide roller for tensioning and guiding the timing belts, respectively. The guide roller may help to distribute motion from the motor to the rotatable body more efficiently.

[0025] According to an embodiment, the self-cleaning surface system may further include one or more shafts, wherein the rotatable body is attached to a support structure via one or more shafts. Preferably, each rotatable body is attached via two shafts and is rotatable by both shafts. The shafts can be used to rotatably connect the rotatable body to the support structure. In an embodiment, each rotatable body may include two shafts, wherein one of the shafts includes a gear for transmitting motion from a motor, while the other shaft serves as a support shaft.

[0026] In one embodiment, the rotating mechanism of the self-cleaning surface system may further include a bushing or support, wherein the shaft is attached to a supporting structural member via the bushing or support. The support or bushing in this embodiment improves the rotatable connection between the shaft and the structural support, and thus improves the rotatable connection between the rotatable body and the structural support. The bushing may be a self-lubricating bushing. The bushing or support may be located inside the seat or retainer.

[0027] In one implementation, the support structure of the self-cleaning surface system can be a frame. The frame can surround and support the rotatable body. The frame can also be arranged to support at least a portion of the rotating and cleaning mechanisms, such as supporting one or more motors.

[0028] In one embodiment, the cleaning fluid may be a cleaning liquid, wherein the cleaning liquid may include a cleaning agent or a disinfectant. In other embodiments, the cleaning fluid may be steam, wherein the steam may be water vapor or water vapor comprising a cleaning agent and / or a disinfectant.

[0029] According to an embodiment, the cleaning spray mechanism of the self-cleaning surface system may include one or more nozzles configured to spray cleaning fluid onto a cleanable surface facing a second direction, wherein, preferably, the cleaning fluid includes a detergent and / or a disinfectant. The nozzles may be configured to act toward one or more cleanable surfaces facing the second direction. The nozzles may be arranged at an angle between 0 and 90 degrees relative to a geometric plane coinciding with the cleanable surface, provided that cleaning fluid sprayed from at least one of the nozzles reaches all cleanable surfaces of the system. The nozzles can help to effectively clean the cleanable surface and distribute the cleaning fluid across the cleanable surface.

[0030] In embodiments, the cleaning mechanism of the self-cleaning surface system may further include one or more windshield-type wipers, which may be simply referred to as wipers in this application. The wipers are configured to clean a cleanable surface facing a second direction, and preferably, each wiper is rotatable from 0 degrees to 90 degrees. The wipers can supplement and improve the cleaning performed by the cleaning fluid jet mechanism. The wipers may be configured to contact one or more surfaces and clean stubborn dirt on the surfaces as they rotate. One or more wipers can be used to contact and clean one or more cleanable surfaces. When more than one wiper is used, the different wipers can be actuated alternately.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the self-cleaning surface system may further include one or more motors connected to a wiper via helical gears and configured to rotate the wiper. In one embodiment, the system may include one or more motors connected to a rotatable body and one or more motors connected to the wiper via helical gears, with the activation of the motors connected to the wiper independent of the activation of the motors connected to the rotatable body. In other embodiments, one or more motors may be simultaneously connected to the rotatable body and the wiper, the motors being arranged to transfer drive toward either the rotatable body or the wiper.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the system may further include one or more wheel brushes configured to clean a cleanable surface facing a second direction. The wheel brushes can contact the cleanable surface facing the second direction. The wheel brushes can be used in conjunction with cleaning fluid sprayed from a cleaning mechanism.

[0033] In one embodiment, the self-cleaning surface system may further include a housing for system mounting. The housing encloses the cleaning system and the rotating mechanism, thereby making the cleanable surface facing a first direction available thereto. The housing may be configured to collect cleaning fluid or a cleaning and disinfecting solution for cleaning the cleanable surface facing a second direction. In another embodiment, the housing of the self-cleaning surface system may further include a bottom tank. The bottom tank may be configured to discharge cleaning fluid or a cleaning and disinfecting solution.

[0034] In other embodiments, one or more cleanable surfaces of the self-cleaning surface system may be made of a material selected from ceramics, granite, glass, plexiglass, stone, metal, plasticized wood, synthetics, organic materials, or combinations thereof. Any material suitable for cleaning with a cleaning or disinfecting solution may be used on the cleanable surface. In other embodiments, the cleanable surface may be made of a hydrophobic material. Hydrophobic materials can facilitate cleaning and drying of the cleanable surface.

[0035] In one embodiment, the activation mechanism may include a controller configured to control the rotation and cleaning mechanism of the profile. The controller may be configured to establish the sequence of steps required to clean the cleanable surface. In other embodiments, the system may also include a sensor configured to detect at least one element on one or more cleanable surfaces facing a first direction. The controller may be configured to: receive an activation signal via a sensor mounted in the self-cleaning surface system, the sensor providing information about dirt present on the cleanable surface facing the first direction; detect elements present on the top of the cleanable surface that could cause system malfunction; and / or collect information determining the end of certain steps in the sequence of steps.

[0036] In one embodiment, the self-cleaning surface system may further include one or more sensors configured to initiate cleaning of the cleanable surface or rotation of the rotatable body. The sensors may be configured to detect external actions or stimuli that enable or disable the system. In other words, the sensors may be configured to provide signals to start or stop rotation of the rotatable body and cleaning of the cleanable surface. In another embodiment, the sensor may be a photoelectric sensor configured to detect one or more light changes caused by at least one element on top of the cleanable surface or by a user. Therefore, if the photoelectric sensor detects any light change caused by at least one element on top of the cleanable surface or by a user, the system may stop the cleaning process and avoid any damage to the system or the user. In another embodiment, the self-cleaning surface system may further include a weight sensor configured to sense weight changes caused by at least one element on top of the cleanable surface or by a user. In this embodiment, the sensor may be configured to detect the weight of any element or any user that may be located on top of the cleanable surface of the system, and use this information as a condition for starting, stopping, or continuing cleaning or rotation of the cleanable surface. In other words, if, for example, a user is positioned on top of the cleanable surface, the sequence of cleaning or rotation of the cleanable surface will not begin until the cleanable surface is vacated. In other embodiments, the system may also include a motion camera configured to detect at least one element or user positioned on top of the cleanable surface. The motion camera may be configured to record images or videos of the element or user from the top of the cleanable surface. These images or videos can be used as conditions to initiate or continue the cleaning of the cleanable surface or the rotation of the rotatable body—i.e., the cleaning process.

[0037] According to one implementation, the self-cleaning surface system can be configured for manual activation. The system can also be configured for user activation. The user can activate the system by pressing a button on the controller, a remote control, or any other element involved in manually activating the system. The user can activate the system at their convenience; however, the system may also deactivate due to the detection or sensing of an element on top of the cleanable surface or a signal derived therefrom, which could lead to system malfunction.

[0038] According to another embodiment, the system can be configured to automatically activate the rotation of the profile and the cleaning of the cleanable surfaces. When the system detects via sensors that there are no obstructions or users on the cleanable surfaces, the system can automatically activate a cleaning procedure, which includes the rotation of the rotatable body and the cleaning of the cleanable surfaces. The system can also automatically activate when it detects dirt on one or more cleanable surfaces and detects that there are no obstructions or users on these surfaces.

[0039] In one embodiment, the self-cleaning surface system may further include flat elements surrounding the rotatable body, wherein the flat elements cover the rotating mechanism and support structure. The flat elements may be coplanar with a first-direction-facing cleanable surface of the rotatable body, wherein the cleanable surface faces the first direction and the flat elements may be adjacent to each other, i.e., without gaps between the flat elements. The flat elements covering the rotating mechanism and support structure provide safety for the user and prevent interaction with components that could potentially harm the user—such as motors or gears. The flat elements may include a non-rotating cleanable surface pointing in the first direction and made of the same material as the cleanable surface at the rotatable body.

[0040] A second aspect of the invention relates to a flooring that includes a self-cleaning surface system as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0041] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a method for self-cleaning a surface of a system described according to any of the above embodiments, the method comprising the steps of: rotating one or more rotatable bodies 180 degrees from facing a first direction to facing a second direction; activating a cleaning mechanism when all rotatable bodies are facing the second direction; and cleaning one or more cleanable surfaces by spraying a cleaning fluid toward one or more cleanable surfaces facing the second direction.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, each rotatable body of the self-cleaning surface system includes an additional cleanable surface opposite to the corresponding cleanable surface, wherein the additional cleanable surface faces a second direction when the corresponding cleanable surface faces a first direction, and the additional cleanable surface faces the first direction when the corresponding cleanable surface faces the second direction, and wherein a cleaning fluid jetting mechanism, when activated, jets cleaning fluid toward any of the cleanable surfaces of one or more rotatable bodies facing the second direction. Advantageously, the method allows the positions of the corresponding cleanable surface and the additional surface to be interchanged, and the corresponding cleanable surface and the additional surface may also be referred to as the first cleanable surface and the second cleanable surface, respectively. Cleaning of the first cleanable surface can be performed while the second cleanable surface is available.

[0043] In an embodiment, the self-cleaning surface system may further include multiple rotatable bodies, wherein the rotation mechanism further includes one or more motors configured to rotate the rotatable bodies, and wherein each rotatable body is located at a corresponding odd or even position in a position sequence, with each even position adjacent to a corresponding odd position. The method for self-cleaning the surface of the system includes the step of rotating one or more rotatable bodies 180 degrees from facing a first direction to facing a second direction. This step can be accomplished by first flipping the rotatable body at the corresponding odd position and then flipping the profile at the corresponding even position, or by first flipping the rotatable body at the corresponding even position and then flipping the profile at the corresponding odd position. Collisions can be avoided if the rotatable body at the odd position rotates at different times than the rotatable body at the even position.

[0044] In one embodiment, the cleaning mechanism of the self-cleaning surface system may include one or more wipers configured to clean a cleanable surface facing a second direction, wherein preferably, each wiper is rotatable by 90 degrees, and wherein the step of cleaning one or more cleanable surfaces by spraying cleaning fluid toward one or more cleanable surfaces facing the second direction may be performed before or after the step of rotating the wipers on the cleanable surfaces facing the second direction.

[0045] In one embodiment, the self-cleaning surface system further includes a sensor configured to detect at least one element on one or more cleanable surfaces facing a first direction, and the method may include a first step of detecting at least one element on a surface located on a first side.

[0046] In one implementation, the system can automatically begin executing the steps of the method. These steps can begin automatically when conditions are met based on certain parameters detected by sensors, such as when the system detects no obstructions or users on the cleanable surface. In other implementations, the user of the self-cleaning surface system can manually begin the steps of the method. Attached Figure Description

[0047] A further understanding of the nature and advantages of particular embodiments can be achieved by referring to the remainder of the specification and accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals are used to refer to similar parts. Some preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0048] Figure 1 is a top view of an embodiment of the self-cleaning surface system according to the present invention;

[0049] Figure 2 is a top view of an embodiment of the self-cleaning surface system according to the present invention;

[0050] Figure 3A is a partial top view of an embodiment of the self-cleaning surface system according to the present invention;

[0051] Figure 3B is a side view of an embodiment of the self-cleaning surface system according to the present invention;

[0052] Figure 4A is a partial top view of an embodiment of the self-cleaning surface system according to the present invention;

[0053] Figure 4B is a side view of an embodiment of the self-cleaning surface system according to the present invention;

[0054] Figure 5 is a rear view of an embodiment of the self-cleaning surface system according to the present invention;

[0055] Figure 6A is a top view of an embodiment of the housing of the self-cleaning surface system according to the present invention;

[0056] Figure 6B is a perspective view of an embodiment of the housing of the self-cleaning surface system according to the present invention;

[0057] Figure 7A is a side view of a rotatable body according to an embodiment of the self-cleaning surface system of the present invention;

[0058] Figure 7B is a side view of eight rotatable bodies according to an embodiment of the self-cleaning surface system of the present invention;

[0059] Figures 8A to 8I are side views of eight rotatable bodies according to an embodiment of the self-cleaning surface system of the present invention, and depict the rotation sequence of the rotatable bodies.

[0060] Figures 9A to 9D are side views of rotatable bodies with different geometries according to different embodiments of the self-cleaning surface system of the present invention;

[0061] Figures 10A to 10E are top views of different embodiments of a self-cleaning surface system comprising one or more rotatable bodies according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0062] The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate preferred embodiments. Referring to FIG2, FIG2 depicts a top view of an embodiment of the self-cleaning surface system according to the invention. In this embodiment, the self-cleaning surface system includes: eight rotating bodies 19; a support structure 3, which in this case corresponds to a frame supporting the rotatable bodies 19, wherein the rotatable bodies 19 are configured to rotate relative to the support structure 3 about corresponding rotation axes, the rotatable bodies 19 having corresponding cleanable surfaces 1 parallel to the corresponding rotation axes and configured to rotate together with the corresponding rotatable bodies 19 from facing a first direction to facing a second direction and from facing the second direction to facing the first direction, the first direction being opposite to the second direction; a rotation mechanism configured to rotate one or more of the rotatable bodies 19; a cleaning mechanism, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the cleaning mechanism including a cleaning fluid jetting mechanism; and an activation mechanism configured to activate the fluid jetting mechanism when each cleanable surface 1 faces the second direction, wherein the cleaning fluid jetting mechanism, when activated, is arranged to jet cleaning fluid toward the one or more cleanable surfaces 1 when the one or more cleanable surfaces 1 face the second direction. In this embodiment, the cleanable surface 1 faces the first direction. Regarding the support structure 3, it is conceivable that the support structure 3 may differ from the frame. In this embodiment, the rotation mechanism includes two motors 4 configured to rotate the rotatable body 19, wherein each rotatable body 19 is located at a corresponding odd (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g) or even (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h) position in a position sequence, and each even position (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h) is adjacent to the corresponding odd position (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g) in the sequence. However, it is conceivable that only one motor 4 may be configured to rotate the rotatable body 19. Similarly, it is conceivable that more than two motors 4 may be used to rotate the rotatable body 19. The even and odd positions of the rotatable bodies are assigned by counting from the first rotatable body 19 in the sequence to the last rotatable body. It should be understood that this assignment can also be accomplished in the reverse manner. In this embodiment, two motors 4 are configured to rotate the rotatable body 19 located at the corresponding odd-numbered positions (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g), while another motor is configured to rotate the rotatable body 19 located at the corresponding even-numbered positions (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h). Based on this, this embodiment provides four even-numbered positions (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h) and four odd-numbered positions (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g).Furthermore, the two motors are configured to first rotate all rotatable bodies located at the corresponding odd-numbered positions (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g), and then rotate all rotatable bodies located at the corresponding even-numbered positions (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h); or the two motors are configured to first rotate all rotatable bodies located at the corresponding even-numbered positions (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h), and then rotate all rotatable bodies located at the corresponding odd-numbered positions (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g).

[0063] Referring now to Figure 1, Figure 1 depicts a top view of an embodiment of a self-cleaning surface system comprising eight rotatable bodies 19. In this embodiment, eight rotatable bodies 19 are shown, each rotatable body 19 including a cleanable surface 1. The structural support 3, rotation mechanism, and cleaning mechanism are not shown in Figure 1 because the system includes a flat element 2 surrounding the rotatable bodies 19, wherein the flat element 2 covers the rotation mechanism and the support structure 3. The invention comprises eight rotatable bodies 19 having eight cleanable surfaces 1 that can rotate 360 ​​degrees, and four non-rotatable surfaces located on the flat element 2. The cleanable surfaces can rotate 360 ​​degrees between a position where the cleanable surfaces face a first direction and a position where the cleanable surfaces face a second direction, the latter position being achievable by a 180-degree rotation. A rotatable body, also referred to as a profile, may comprise a flat cleanable body or cleanable surface 1. Thus, in other words, a profile may have a surface 1 that can be cleaned by the cleaning mechanism of the system. Referring now to Figure 7, Figure 7 shows an embodiment of the profile 19 and an embodiment comprising eight identical adjacent profiles. In this embodiment, each rotatable body 19 includes an additional cleanable surface 20 opposite to the corresponding cleanable surface 1, wherein the additional cleanable surface 20 is configured such that when the corresponding cleanable surface 1 faces a first direction, the additional cleanable surface 20 faces a second direction; and when the corresponding cleanable surface 1 faces the second direction, the additional cleanable surface 20 faces the first direction. Therefore, in embodiments of the self-cleaning surface system including these profiles 19, the cleaning fluid spraying mechanism, when activated, is arranged to spray cleaning fluid toward any one of the cleanable surfaces (1 or 20) of one or more rotatable bodies facing the second direction. Each surface is on a profile 19. Thus, each profile 19 has a surface 1 on top and a surface 20 on the bottom. These surfaces can be made of various materials. For example, for flooring, they can be made of materials such as granite, tile, wood, etc. Therefore, all eight profiles in FIG. 7B have a surface 1 on top and a surface 20 on the bottom. These eight surfaces can be rotated 180 degrees during operation following a specific rotation sequence. Referring now to Figure 8, which depicts a side view of eight profiles 19 and the rotation sequence followed during operation in an embodiment of the invention. This embodiment includes a plurality of rotatable bodies 19 arranged adjacent to each other, wherein a cross-sectional geometry of each rotatable body 19 intersects a cleanable surface 1, and preferably, the cross-section of the geometry is perpendicular to the cleanable surface 1. Each rotatable body 19 includes a recess configured such that, when the rotatable body 19 rotates, the cleanable surface 1 of each rotatable body 19 at least partially fits into or through the recess of an adjacent rotatable body 19.Figure 8 is divided into eight rows: Figures 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E, 8F, 8G, 8H, and 8I. The movement of the profiles 19 in this embodiment is performed by first rotating the profiles 19 in even positions (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h) and then rotating the profiles in odd positions (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g), but it is conceivable that the rotations could be performed in the reverse manner. Figure 8A shows the eight profiles 19 without any movement. Figures 8B, 8C, 8D, and 8E show the profiles 19 in even positions (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h) during a 180-degree rotation, and the profiles 19 in odd positions (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g) remaining stationary. Figures 8F, 8G, 8H, and 8I show profiles 19 in odd-numbered positions (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g) and profiles 19 in even-numbered positions (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h) remaining stationary during a 180-degree rotation. Thus, Figure 8I depicts all surfaces that have been rotated 180 degrees. This is one cycle. The top surface 1 is rotated 180 degrees after this rotation sequence; however, it is also conceivable that the profiles 19 in odd-numbered positions would rotate first in the reverse rotation sequence. As the top surface 1 becomes dirty, the automatic system alternately rotates the odd and even surfaces 180 degrees until all eight surfaces 1 are rotated. Thus, the dirty surface 1 is currently on the bottom side, while the clean surface 20 moves from the bottom to the top. When the eight dirty surfaces 1 are on the bottom side, i.e., facing the second direction, the cleaning mechanism begins cleaning the eight dirty surfaces 1 and prepares the cleaned surfaces 1 until the next 180-degree rotation. The current rotation sequence can be followed to avoid surfaces colliding with each other. It is also conceivable that the rotation of all profiles 19 is achieved by following a one-to-one rotation. One surface rotates while the next surface remains stationary, and so on. In the embodiment of Figure 8, odd-numbered surfaces rotate together, and even-numbered surfaces rotate together. The invention has eight flippable surfaces because it attempts to cover a specific square centimeter area with fixed length, width, and height. The system can also operate normally with more than one surface.

[0064] The flat element 2 in Figure 1 and its surface cannot be flipped. Below these four flat elements are the system's motor 4 and rotating mechanism. As shown in the embodiment of Figure 5, the invention may include a mechanism having: a motor 4; gears (8, 9); shafts (7, 11); and other components that cause eight dirty, cleanable surfaces 1 on top to move and rotate 180 degrees in the order shown above, thereby placing eight clean, cleanable surfaces 20 on top. In the embodiment of Figure 6, the system's cleaning spray mechanism includes two nozzles (18) configured to spray cleaning fluid onto the cleanable surfaces facing a second direction, wherein preferably, the cleaning fluid includes a cleaning agent and / or a disinfectant. However, it is conceivable that the system may include one or more nozzles (18). In Figure 5, the system includes two windshield-type wipers (15) configured to clean the cleanable surfaces facing a second direction, wherein each wiper is capable of rotating 90 degrees. However, it is also conceivable that the system may include one or more windshield-type wipers (15). The system may also include a wheel brush for cleaning cleanable surfaces. The system includes two motors 4 connected to the wiper 15 via helical gears 5 and configured to rotate the wiper 15. As shown in Figure 2, the rotation of the wiper 15 can be performed independently. When a dirty surface rotates 180 degrees, the cleaning mechanism of a windshield-type wiper (15) or a windshield-type wiper cleans the dirty surface with water containing detergent and disinfectant obtained from the windshield wiper spray cleaner nozzle 18—as shown in Figure 6—and keeps these cleaned surfaces clean and ready until the next 180-degree rotation. Figure 2 depicts a top view of the system without the flat element 2 in Figure 1. In this embodiment, the support structure 3 is a frame to which four motors 4 are attached. The main frame is also attached to eight profiles 19, the surfaces of which can be rotated 180 degrees. As shown in Figures 2, 3, and 4, the rotating mechanism also includes gears (8, 9), which are configured to transmit motion from motor 4 to the rotatable body 19. Motor 4 includes a motor shaft with gear 21, wherein the gear also includes a Geneva mechanism 6, also referred to as a Geneva wheel. Geneva mechanism 6 may include a drive wheel 8 and a driven wheel 9. The main frame is attached with two sets of gears (8, 9), which obtain motion from motor 4 and rotate profile 19 by 180 degrees. Finally, the main frame has two sets of helical gears 5, which obtain motion from two other motors 4 and move windshield wiper 15. One of the motors is a motor that rotates profile 19 located in odd-numbered positions (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g), and this motor has a set of gears (8, 9), shafts (7, 11), and other mechanical components.Another motor is one that rotates the profile 19 and the cleanable surface located at even-numbered positions (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h). This motor has another set of gears (8, 9), shafts (7, 11), and other mechanical components. Another motor 4 moves a set of angular gears 5, which in turn moves the first windshield wiper shown in Figure 5. Another motor moves a set of angular gears 5, which in turn moves the second windshield wiper 15. It is also conceivable to use a worm gear drive mechanism to rotate the rotatable body or the windshield wiper. Figure 5 depicts a view of the system from below. Thus, the view of Figure 5 is obtained by flipping the system in Figure 1.

[0065] The embodiment shown in Figure 3 depicts a detailed view of a set of gears (8, 9) already shown in the top view of Figure 2. The system includes a timing belt 14, wherein at least one timing belt 14 is connected to the gears (8, 9) and configured to transmit motion from the motor 4 to the gears (8, 9). The system also includes a belt tensioner 10 and a guide roller 12 for tensioning and guiding the timing belt 14, respectively. The system also includes one or more shafts (7, 11), wherein a rotatable body 19 is attached or connected to a support structure 3 via one or more shafts (7, 11), preferably each rotatable body 19 is attached and rotatable via two shafts (7, 11). The rotation mechanism of the system also includes a support, wherein the shafts (7, 11) are attached or connected to the support structure 3 via the support. It is also conceivable that the shafts (7, 11) are attached or connected to the support structure 3 via bushings or self-lubricating bushings. The bushings or supports may be located inside the seat or retainer 13. Figure 3 shows two different views to better understand the position of each gear (8, 9), shaft (7, 11), timing belt 14, and component of the system. A partial top view of the self-cleaning surface system is shown in Figure 3A, and a side view of the self-cleaning surface system is shown in Figure 3B. Figure 3A shows the frame in which all the mechanical components are attached. However, the mechanical components may be attached to other types of supports. The geometry of the profile 19 is shown in Figure 7A. The first cleanable surface 1 and the second cleanable surface 20 are located on the top and bottom of the profile 19. The shafts in Figure 3 are used to attach the Geneva mechanism 6 for rotating the profile 19. These shafts are attached to the frame via supports. Movement from the motor gears is transmitted through the timing belt 14 to the gears on the shaft 11. The gears (8, 9) are also part of the Geneva mechanism 6. As the gears rotate through the belt 14, they also move the Geneva 6, which in turn rotates the shaft 11 of the profile 19. The belt tensioner 10 is used to tension the timing belt 14. Some of the gears (8, 9) rotate the shaft attached to the frame. Each profile 19 is attached to a shaft 11 with gears and a shaft 7 without any gears (8, 9) or Geneva mechanism 6. Thus, shaft 7 is provided only as a support shaft. Guide rollers 12 are provided for guiding the timing belt 14. Figure 3B shows an angular transmission gear 5 that obtains motion from the motor 4, and a helical gear 5 that moves the windshield wiper shaft to rotate the windshield wiper 15.

[0066] Figure 5 is a bottom view of an embodiment of the self-cleaning surface system. It shows the frame of the cleaning mechanism of the invention, the cleanable surface 20 facing the second direction, and the windshield wiper 15. Figure 6 is divided into Figures 6A and 6B and shows two different views of the system housing 16. Figure 6A shows a top view of the system housing 16 of the system shown in Figure 1. This is thus an embodiment of the housing 16 in which the system is installed. In this embodiment, the housing includes a bottom groove 17 for discharging the cleaning fluid from the system. The main body of the housing 16 is shown, along with the bottom groove 17 and the jet cleaner nozzle 18. Figure 6B is a perspective view from the upper left to better understand the shape of the housing 16 fitted with the system. The housing 16 can be adapted to be at the same level as the floor, so that the eight flipped surfaces 1 will be at the same level as the rest of the floor. If a mobile system is desired, such as a mobile public toilet floor for events, concerts, etc., then the housing 16 with this system can be positioned above the main floor, with the housing raised one step. Figure 7 depicts a side view of the geometry 19 that can be used. Figure 7 is divided into Figure 7A and Figure 7B. Figure 7A shows a side view of one of the eight profiles 19 rotated 180 degrees. Two surfaces (1, 20) are located on profile 19. Figure 7 has two different views so that we can better understand the appearance of the two cleanable surfaces on the sides of the profile 19 at the top and bottom. These surfaces can be made of any material. The material can be ceramic, granite, glass, plexiglass, stone, metal, plasticized wood, composites or combinations thereof, or any material that can be shaped to the required dimensions. The cleanable surfaces can also be made of hydrophobic materials. Figure 7B is a side view of the eight profiles 19. Figure 8 depicts the side views of the eight profiles 19 and the rotation sequence followed during operation. Figure 8 is divided into eight rows: Figures 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E, 8F, 8G, 8H, and 8I. Figure 8A shows the eight profiles 19 without any movement. Figures 8B, 8C, 8D, and 8E show profile 19 in even-numbered positions (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h) during the 180-degree rotation process, and profile 19 in odd-numbered positions (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h) remaining stationary. Figures 8F, 8G, 8H, and 8I show profile 19 in odd-numbered positions (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h) during the 180-degree rotation process, and profile 19 in even-numbered positions (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h) remaining stationary. Thus, Figure 8I depicts all surfaces that have been rotated 180 degrees. This is one cycle. Top surface 1 can be rotated 180 degrees after this rotation sequence, but other rotation sequences are also conceivable. When top surface 1 becomes dirty, the system rotates the odd-numbered and even-numbered surfaces 180 degrees until all eight surfaces have been rotated. Thus, dirty surface 1 is now on the bottom side, while clean surface 20 from the bottom is on the top.When the eight dirty surfaces of this embodiment are rotated 180 degrees to the bottom position, the cleaning mechanism begins to clean the eight dirty surfaces and keeps these cleaned surfaces ready until the next 180-degree rotation. The cleaning mechanism in Figure 2 includes two motors 4 and two sets of angular drive gears 5. This embodiment also includes two windshield wipers (15) and windshield wiper spray cleaning nozzles 18, as shown in Figures 3B, 4B, and 6. The spray cleaning nozzles 18 use water containing detergent and disinfectant to clean the dirty surfaces. The movement of the windshield wipers 15 is alternating. When the wiper moves from 0 degrees to 90 degrees and returns to 0 degrees, the wiper remains stationary. When the first wiper starts working, the spray cleaning nozzles 18 in Figure 6 begin to spray water containing detergent onto the dirty surfaces for a predetermined time. The second wiper then moves from 0 degrees to 90 degrees and back to 0 degrees, while the first wiper 15 remains stationary, and vice versa, until both windshield wipers 15 have cleaned the surface and the operating software stops them. In each case, only one wiper 15 is working while the other remains stationary. After this stage, the bottom surface is cleaned and prepared until the next 180-degree rotation. Figure 9 depicts some variations of the profile 19 with different geometries that can be used in the system without any collision or rotation problems. Figure 9 is divided into Figures 9A, 9B, 9C, and 9D. These four figures depict the same top and bottom surfaces. The difference lies in the geometry of the profile 19. This geometry allows the profiles 19 to be close enough to rotate 180 degrees one by one without any collision problems. Figure 10 is divided into Figures 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, and 10E. These five figures depict some variations that can be used. Figure 10A depicts a top view of an automatic self-cleaning surface system including one surface of a profile 19 that can rotate 180 degrees. It includes a flip-up surface and four flat elements 2 with non-rotatable surfaces. Figure 10B depicts a top view of an automatic self-cleaning surface system including two surfaces that can rotate 180 degrees. Figure 10C depicts a top view of an automatic self-cleaning surface system including three surfaces that can rotate 180 degrees. Figure 10D depicts a top view of an automatic self-cleaning surface system including three surfaces that can rotate 180 degrees. Figure 10E depicts a top view of an automatic self-cleaning surface system including two surfaces that can rotate 180 degrees. An automatic self-cleaning surface system may include at least one surface that can rotate 180 degrees.

[0067] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an automatic self-cleaning surface system capable of cleaning its own main surface, which is divided into eight smaller surfaces 1 in FIG. 1. These surfaces are rectangular in shape and located on profiles 19 of a specific geometry. The cleanable surface 1 is on the top side of profile 19, and another cleanable surface 20 is on the bottom side of profile 19. Thus, all eight profiles 19 are adjacent to each other and attached to a main frame, as shown in FIG. 2. The geometry of the profiles 19 can be a variation of the variations depicted in FIG. 9A, FIG. 9B, FIG. 9C, and FIG. 9D, as this geometry allows the surfaces to be close enough to each other that rotation is not an issue. Other similar geometries can also be used. The vertical dimension of the profiles 19 should be as small as possible so that they allow 180-degree rotation without colliding with adjacent profiles 19. In this way, even-numbered and odd-numbered profiles 19 can rotate 360 ​​degrees through the axis of the profiles without pressing against each other. Therefore, the geometry of the profiles 19 and the specific rotation sequence followed by the system are important aspects that allow these profiles 19 and their surfaces to rotate and flip 180 degrees during operation. In the embodiment of FIG1, the activation mechanism may include a controller configured to control the rotation and cleaning mechanism of the profiles 19. The system also includes an injector (not shown) configured to regulate fluid injection, and preferably includes one or more electric valves. In the embodiment of FIG1, when the eight top surfaces become dirty, a sensor—which knows that there is no obstruction on the top surface of the surface that would cause system malfunction—signals to initiate an automatic self-cleaning procedure. Although not shown, the system may include one or more sensors configured to enable cleaning of the cleanable surface or rotation of the rotatable body. The sensor may be a photoelectric sensor configured to detect any changes in light caused by at least one element or user on the cleanable surface. In other embodiments, the sensor may be a weight sensor configured to sense at least one element or user on the cleanable surface. According to other embodiments, it is contemplated that the sensor may also include a motion camera configured to sense at least one element or user on the cleanable surface. The system automatically begins to flip even-numbered surfaces 180 degrees. However, in other embodiments, the system can be manually activated. The system can begin to flip surfaces located at odd or even positions. If the system starts with even numbers (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h), this is accomplished by rotating the first motor 4 shown in Figure 2. Gear 21 moves the timing belt 14, and the timing belt 14 moves the pulley mechanism 6 via gears (8, 9) until 180 degrees are completed. The system then automatically or manually begins to flip odd-numbered surfaces (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g) 180 degrees. In Figure 2, this can be accomplished by rotating another set of gears (6, 8) and the second motor 4, as shown in Figure 2.Gears (6, 8) move timing belt 14, as shown in Figure 3. Belt 14 moves Geneva mechanism 6 with gears (8, 9) and Geneva wheel 6 until a full 180-degree rotation is achieved. Geneva mechanism 6 can lock profile 19 in both the 0-degree and 180-degree positions without requiring a locking system for these profiles 19. This can be achieved without the Geneva mechanism 6 having ordinary gears (8, 9), but Geneva wheel 6 provides the locking system so that profile 19 will remain in both the 0-degree and 180-degree positions. It does not matter whether the odd-numbered surfaces (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g) start rotating first, followed by the even-numbered surfaces (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h), or if the even-numbered surfaces (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h) start rotating first, followed by the odd-numbered surfaces (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g), because the system operates identically. Therefore, it can be adjusted by programming the operating software. Therefore, when the dirty surface is on the bottom side, the cleaning mechanism begins cleaning these dirty surfaces. The windshield wiper nozzle 18 in Figure 6 begins spraying a liquid containing cleaning and disinfecting agent onto the dirty surface. Simultaneously, the motor 4 and a set of angle gears 5 shown in Figure 2 move the windshield wiper 15 from 0 degrees to 90 degrees and back to 0 degrees. Meanwhile, another windshield wiper 15 remains stationary. Then, the second motor 4 and a set of angle gears 5 move the windshield wiper 15 from 0 degrees to 90 degrees and back to 0 degrees. Meanwhile, another windshield wiper 15 remains stationary. After a programmed period of alternating operation of the windshield wipers 15 with the fluid spray and cleaning agent, the surface is cleaned. The system stops operating and remains in standby mode until the cleaned surface undergoes another 180-degree rotation from bottom to top.

[0068] While preferred materials for the components have been described, the invention is not limited to these materials. All kinds of materials can include some or all of the components of the apparatus in various embodiments of the invention. Although the invention has been described and illustrated herein with reference to preferred embodiments and specific examples thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other embodiments and examples can perform similar functions and / or achieve similar results. All such equivalent embodiments and examples are within the spirit and scope of the invention, and are thus contemplated and intended to be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A self-cleaning surface system, the self-cleaning surface system comprising: -Rotating body (19); - A support structure (3) supporting the rotatable body (19), wherein the rotatable body (19) is configured to rotate relative to the support structure (3) about a corresponding axis of rotation, the rotatable body (19) having a corresponding cleanable surface (1) parallel to the corresponding axis of rotation, and the cleanable surface (1) being configured to rotate together with the corresponding rotatable body (19) from facing a first direction to facing a second direction and from facing the second direction to facing the first direction, the first direction being opposite to the second direction; - A rotation mechanism configured to rotate the rotatable body; - A cleaning mechanism including a cleaning fluid jet mechanism; and - An activation mechanism configured to: when each cleanable surface (1) faces the corresponding axis of rotation, the rotatable body (19) is rotated to face the corresponding axis of rotation. When the second direction is described, the activation mechanism activates the cleaning fluid jetting mechanism, wherein the cleaning fluid jetting mechanism, when activated, is arranged such that when one or more of the cleanable surfaces face the second direction, the cleaning fluid jetting mechanism jets cleaning fluid toward one or more of the cleanable surfaces; wherein the rotatable bodies (19) are arranged adjacent to each other, wherein along the geometric cross-section of each rotatable body (19), the geometric cross-section intersects and is perpendicular to the cleanable surface, and the rotatable body (19) includes a recess configured such that when the rotatable body (19) rotates, the recess allows the cleanable surface of each rotatable body (19) to at least partially fit into or through the recess of an adjacent rotatable body.

2. The self-cleaning surface system according to claim 1, wherein, Each rotatable body (19) includes an additional cleanable surface (20) opposite to the corresponding cleanable surface (1), wherein the additional cleanable surface (20) is configured such that: when the corresponding cleanable surface (1) faces the first direction, the additional cleanable surface (20) faces the second direction; and when the corresponding cleanable surface (1) faces the second direction, the additional cleanable surface (20) faces the first direction, and wherein the cleaning fluid jetting mechanism, when activated, is arranged to jet cleaning fluid toward any of the cleanable surfaces of the rotatable body (19) facing the second direction.

3. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The rotating mechanism further includes one or more motors (4) configured to rotate the rotatable body (19), wherein each rotatable body (19) is located at a corresponding odd position (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g) or even position (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h) in a position sequence, and each even position (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h) in the position sequence is adjacent to a corresponding odd position (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g).

4. The self-cleaning surface system according to claim 3, wherein, The rotating mechanism includes two motors (4), wherein one of the two motors (4) is configured to rotate the rotating body (19) located at the corresponding odd positions (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g), and the other motor of the two motors (4) is configured to rotate the rotatable body (19) located at the corresponding even positions (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h).

5. The self-cleaning surface system according to claim 4, wherein, The two motors (4) are configured to: first rotate all the rotatable bodies (19) located at the corresponding odd positions (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g), and then rotate all the rotatable bodies (19) located at the corresponding even positions (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h); or, the two motors (4) are configured to: first rotate all the rotatable bodies (19) located at the corresponding even positions (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h), and then rotate all the rotatable bodies (19) located at the corresponding odd positions (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g).

6. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein, The rotating mechanism further includes one or more worm gear drives, wherein the one or more worm gear drives are configured to transmit motion from the motor to the rotatable body.

7. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein, The rotating mechanism further includes gears (8, 9, 21), wherein the gears (8, 9, 21) are configured to transmit motion from the motor (4) to the rotatable body (19), and preferably, the gears (8, 9) are Geneva wheels (6).

8. The self-cleaning surface system according to claim 7, wherein, The gears (6, 8, 21) are connected to a transmission chain configured to transmit motion from the motor (4) to the gears (6, 8).

9. The self-cleaning surface system according to claim 7, further comprising at least one timing band (14), wherein, At least one of the timing belts (14) is connected to the gears (8, 9, 21), and the timing belt (14) is configured to transmit motion from the motor (4) to the gears (8, 9).

10. The self-cleaning surface system according to claim 9, the self-cleaning surface system further comprising a belt tensioner (10) and a guide roller (12) for tensioning and guiding the timing belt (14) respectively.

11. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of the preceding claims further comprises one or more shafts (7, 11), wherein, The rotatable body (19) is attached to the support structure (3) via one or more of the shafts (7, 11). Preferably, each rotatable body (19) is attached to the support structure (3) via two of the shafts (7, 11) and is rotatable via the two shafts.

12. The self-cleaning surface system according to claim 11, wherein, The rotating mechanism further includes a bushing or a support, wherein the shaft (7, 11) is attached to the support structure (3) via the bushing or the support.

13. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The supporting structural component (3) is a frame.

14. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The cleaning fluid is a cleaning liquid.

15. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The cleaning fluid is steam.

16. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The cleaning spray mechanism includes one or more nozzles (18) configured to spray the cleaning fluid onto the cleanable surface facing the second direction, and wherein preferably, the cleaning fluid includes a cleaning agent and / or a disinfectant.

17. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The cleaning mechanism further includes one or more wipers (15) configured to clean the cleanable surface facing the second direction, wherein preferably, each wiper (15) is rotatable by 90 degrees.

18. The self-cleaning surface system of claim 17 further comprises one or more motors (4) connected to the wiper via helical gears (5), and the motors (4) are configured to rotate the wiper (15).

19. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of the preceding claims, the self-cleaning surface system further comprising one or more wheel brushes configured to clean the cleanable surface facing the second direction.

20. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of the preceding claims, the self-cleaning surface system further comprising a housing (16), the system being fitted in the housing (16).

21. The self-cleaning surface system according to claim 20, wherein, The housing (16) includes a bottom groove (17).

22. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, One or more of the cleanable surfaces (1, 20) are made of a material selected from the following: ceramic, granite, glass, plexiglass, stone, metal, plasticized wood, synthetic, organic, or a combination thereof.

23. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The activation mechanism includes a controller configured to control the rotation of the cleaning mechanism and the rotatable body (19).

24. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The activation mechanism includes a syringe configured to regulate the injection of liquid, and preferably, the syringe includes one or more electric valves.

25. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of the preceding claims further includes one or more sensors configured to enable cleaning of the cleanable surface (1, 20) or rotation of the rotatable body (19).

26. The self-cleaning surface system according to claim 25, wherein, The sensor is a photoelectric sensor configured to detect one or more changes in light caused by at least one element located on top of the cleanable surface or by a user.

27. The self-cleaning surface system of claim 25 or 26, further comprising a weight sensor configured to sense weight changes caused by at least one element located on top of the cleanable surface or by a user.

28. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a motion camera configured to detect at least one element or user located on top of the cleanable surface.

29. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The system is configured to be manually enabled.

30. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein, The system is configured to automatically enable the rotation of the rotatable body and the cleaning of the cleanable surface.

31. The self-cleaning surface system according to any one of the preceding claims, the self-cleaning surface system further comprising one or more flat elements (2) surrounding the rotatable body (19), wherein, The one or more flat elements (2) cover the rotating mechanism and the supporting structure (3).

32. A flooring comprising a self-cleaning surface system according to any one of the preceding claims.

33. A method for self-cleaning a surface of a system according to any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising the steps of: - rotating the rotatable body (19) 180 degrees from facing a first direction to facing a second direction, and, when the rotatable body (19) rotates, the recesses of the rotatable body (19) allow the cleanable surface of each rotatable body (19) to be at least partially fitted into or through the recesses of adjacent rotatable bodies; - activating the cleaning mechanism when all the rotatable bodies (19) are facing the second direction; and - cleaning one or more of the cleanable surfaces (1) by spraying a cleaning substance toward one or more of the cleanable surfaces (1) facing the second direction.

34. The method according to claim 33, wherein, Each rotatable body of the self-cleaning surface system includes an additional cleanable surface (20) opposite to the corresponding cleanable surface (1), wherein the additional cleanable surface (20) faces the second direction when the corresponding cleanable surface (1) faces the first direction; and the additional cleanable surface (20) faces the first direction when the corresponding cleanable surface (1) faces the second direction, and wherein the cleaning fluid injection mechanism, when activated, sprays the cleaning fluid toward any of the cleanable surfaces (1, 20) of the rotatable body (19) facing the second direction.

35. The method according to claim 33 or 34, wherein, The self-cleaning surface system further includes a plurality of rotatable bodies (19), wherein the rotation mechanism further includes one or more motors (4), the motors (4) being configured to rotate the rotatable bodies (19), and wherein each rotatable body (19) is located at a corresponding odd position (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g) or even position (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h) in a position sequence, each even position (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h) being adjacent to a corresponding odd position (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g), and wherein the rotatable bodies (19) are rotated by a plurality of rotatable bodies (19). 19) The step of rotating 180 degrees from the first direction to the second direction is accomplished by first flipping the rotatable body (19) located at the corresponding odd position (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g) and then flipping the rotatable body (19) located at the corresponding even position (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h); or, first flipping the rotatable body (19) located at the corresponding even position (1b, 1d, 1f, 1h) and then flipping the rotatable body (19) located at the corresponding odd position (1a, 1c, 1e, 1g).

36. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 35, wherein, The cleaning mechanism of the self-cleaning surface system further includes one or more wipers (15) configured to clean the cleanable surfaces (1, 20) facing the second direction, wherein preferably, each wiper (15) is rotatable by 90 degrees, and wherein the step of cleaning one or more of the cleanable surfaces (1, 20) by spraying the cleaning fluid toward one or more of the cleanable surfaces (1, 20) facing the second direction is performed before or after the step of rotating the wiper (15) on the cleanable surfaces (1, 20) facing the second direction.

37. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 36, wherein, The self-cleaning surface system further includes a sensor configured to detect at least one element located on one or more of the cleanable surfaces facing the first direction, and wherein the method includes a first step of detecting at least one element located on the cleanable surface facing the first direction.

38. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 37, wherein, The system automatically initiates the steps.

39. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 37, wherein, Start the steps manually.

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