Cleaning systems with user-guided cleaning equipment and methods for operating the cleaning systems

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cleaning system comprising: a user-guided cleaning device (102) having at least one cleaning tool (112) for directly or indirectly acting on an object (108) to be cleaned; a controllable output unit (162); and a data processing unit (170) wherein at least one operating parameter of the cleaning device (102) during its operation, noise occurring during operation, and / or vibration occurring during operation, and related operating information is provided to the data processing unit (170), wherein the data processing unit (170) includes or constitutes an AI module (172), wherein the AI ​​module (172) analyzes the operating information to determine that the operating information indicates that the object (108) to be cleaned has stains, and wherein the AI ​​module (172) provides cleaning-related support (174) to a user (106) via the output unit (162) for stain removal. Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cleaning system, which includes a user-guided cleaning device having at least one cleaning tool for directly or indirectly acting on an object to be cleaned, and the cleaning system also includes a controllable output unit and a data processing unit.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a method for operating a cleaning system, particularly a cleaning system of the type described above. Background Technology

[0003] In user-guided cleaning equipment, such as in the professional cleaning field (not limited to this invention), obtaining information about sufficiently good cleaning results is of great importance. For example, a cleaning check can be performed in a floor cleaning device, where the floor surface is the object to be cleaned, and the cleaning device is a floor cleaning machine. It is known that images of the floor surface before and after cleaning are created and compared to estimate the success of the cleaning. If the cleaning result is unsatisfactory, cleaning can be performed again. Such cleaning equipment is described, for example, in WO 2015 / 144202 A1.

[0004] Furthermore, it is known to monitor the normal functioning of cleaning equipment, particularly in the field of floor cleaning machines. US 2019 / 0216283 A1 describes a method for implementing corrective measures. Here, the operating parameters or noise of the floor cleaning machine during operation are monitored for deviations from normal values. If the deviation is excessive, the floor cleaning machine is assumed to be malfunctioning. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The objective of this invention is to provide a cleaning system and a method for operating the cleaning system, wherein user support is provided in order to achieve improved cleaning results.

[0006] This task is solved by a cleaning system according to the invention, which includes: a user-guided cleaning device having at least one cleaning tool for directly or indirectly acting on the object to be cleaned; a controllable output unit; and a data processing unit, wherein at least one operating parameter of the cleaning device during its operation, noise occurring during operation, and / or vibration occurring during operation are detectable, and related operating information is provided to the data processing unit, wherein the data processing unit includes or constitutes an AI module, wherein the AI ​​module analyzes the operating information to determine that the operating information indicates that the object to be cleaned is contaminated, and wherein the AI ​​module provides the user with cleaning-related support aimed at removing stains via the output unit.

[0007] In the cleaning system according to the invention, a data processing unit is provided, which includes or constitutes an AI module. The AI ​​module (AI, Artificial Intelligence) is constructed and programmed to analyze operational information. This operational information is based on the detection of at least one operating parameter during the operation of the cleaning equipment, on noise occurring during operation, and / or on vibration occurring during operation. A consideration incorporated into the invention is that, in practice, it has been shown that at least a portion of the stain causes a change in at least one operating parameter and / or noise generation or change and / or vibration generation or change. The AI ​​module is constructed and programmed to independently determine, based on information available to it, that the operational information is based on such stains. Furthermore, the AI ​​module is also constructed and programmed to provide information about the stains to the user via an output unit. For example, the user can be informed that the stains were not adequately removed, and subsequently, the user can, for example, perform repeated cleaning with altered operating parameters. In the invention, the user preferably not only receives information about the cleaning effect, but the user preferably improves the cleaning process under the guidance of the AI ​​module.

[0008] AI modules can be implemented in a variety of different ways. For example, at least one of the following can be used: Large Language Model (LLM), Artificial Neural Network (KNN), Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), or Reinforcement Learning Model (RLM).

[0009] This cleaning system can prove particularly advantageous when the cleaning equipment is a hand-guided floor cleaning device and the object to be cleaned is a floor surface. However, the invention is not limited thereto.

[0010] The data processing unit may be coupled to, included in, or constitute the control unit of the cleaning equipment.

[0011] Preferably, at least one data processing unit is provided. Accordingly, the AI ​​module can be configured to consist of at least one or more data processing units, or be included by at least one or more data processing units.

[0012] For example, operating parameters that indicate the performance of the drive motor used in a cleaning tool or the performance of the cleaning tool itself can be detected, such as rotational speed, current consumption, voltage, or temperature. For instance, the current consumption of the drive motor of a cleaning brush in a floor cleaning device changes when using the brush bristles to treat stains. For example, increased current consumption may be required to maintain motor speed. Conversely, with constant current consumption, the motor speed may decrease, which could indicate the presence of stains. For example, increased friction between the cleaning brush and the stain may cause the drive motor temperature to rise.

[0013] It can be configured to detect at least one operating parameter, indicating the performance of the drive motor used for the walking mechanism or the performance of the walking mechanism itself. For example, this operating parameter could be motor speed, current consumption, voltage, or temperature. For instance, increased friction between the cleaning brush and dirt in a floor cleaning device causes the device to slow down, which can be detected, for example, by measuring the motor speed. If the travel speed is maintained, this can be determined, for example, based on current consumption.

[0014] Advantageously, the cleaning system may include sensor units for detecting noise and / or vibration. For this purpose, the sensor units may include, in particular, microphones and / or vibration or shock sensors.

[0015] The cleaning equipment can be configured to include a sensor unit.

[0016] Alternatively or supplementally, an external auxiliary device that can be carried by the user may be included, comprising a sensor unit, wherein the auxiliary device is coupled to or can be coupled to the cleaning device. The auxiliary device may be, for example, a smartphone or tablet.

[0017] Advantageously, the cleaning equipment (especially on the operating unit) includes a housing for an attachment that can be detachably arranged in a defined position within the housing. Due to the defined position of the attachment, it is known, for example, what kind of noise and / or vibration will occur during the operation of the cleaning equipment when there is no dirt. Deviations from this can indicate the presence of dirt to the AI ​​module. For example, in a floor scrubber, a large amount of dirty liquid to be absorbed from the floor surface may cause characteristic noise from the suction device. A floor surface contaminated with coarse particles (either the floor cleaning equipment passes over these particles or they are received by the cleaning brush) may, for example, cause characteristic vibrations, based on which the AI ​​module can determine the presence of dirt.

[0018] Based on the aforementioned content, it is advantageous that the AI ​​module is constructed and programmed to determine the type of stain involved. Here, for example, it can determine the difference between solid and liquid stains, the degree of contamination, and / or the material of the stain.

[0019] Cleaning-related support can be designed in a variety of different ways.

[0020] For example, cleaning-related support may include suggestions on guiding the cleaning equipment, for example, in a specific direction and / or at a specific speed.

[0021] For example, cleaning-related support could include suggestions on setting at least one operating parameter for cleaning equipment. For instance, the AI ​​module could suggest increasing the amount of cleaning agent to achieve better cleaning results, or increasing the rotation speed and / or contact pressure of the cleaning tool to improve cleaning effectiveness.

[0022] Cleaning-related support may include, for example, recommendations on the use of at least one cleaning tool. For instance, it may be recommended to use a cleaning brush of a specific type, optimized for removing stains and / or the type of floor to be cleaned. Currently, recommendations on the use of cleaning tools may also include, for example, recommendations on replacing cleaning tools when they are worn out, including providing users with instructions on how to replace them.

[0023] Cleaning-related support may include, for example, advice on the use and / or dosage of at least one cleaning agent. Relevant examples have already been mentioned. Currently, "cleaning agent" can be, for example, water and / or cleaning chemicals.

[0024] Cleaning-related support may include suggestions such as those regarding stains that cannot be or cannot be adequately removed by cleaning equipment. This is, for example, to avoid potential damage to objects and / or cleaning equipment resulting from repeated, futile attempts to clean. In particular, it is suggested that alternative types of cleaning equipment be used.

[0025] Cleaning-related support may include, for example, advice on purchasing cleaning tools and / or cleaning agents. For instance, informing users that better cleaning can be achieved by using other types of cleaning tools and / or cleaning agents. In a preferred embodiment, users may be guided or redirected to an online marketplace to make their purchases.

[0026] Advantageously, cleaning-related support may include information on when unremovable stains appeared.

[0027] Alternatively or as a supplement, cleaning-related support may include instructions on locating stains that cannot be removed.

[0028] To determine the location, the cleaning system, especially the cleaning equipment or auxiliary equipment, may be configured to have a positioning unit for determining the location in a relative and / or absolute reference frame.

[0029] The above types of descriptions can be summarized and output by the AI ​​module, for example.

[0030] For example, the AI ​​module can be configured and programmed to create a report on cleaning after it is completed. This report includes information on the duration of cleaning, the area cleaned, the success of cleaning (e.g., estimated via percentages), and / or location-specific descriptions of cleaning quality.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one operating parameter of the cleaning device may be configured to depend on cleaning-related support and be set after prior user confirmation. For example, cleaning-related support may include suggestions for changing the dosage of cleaning agent or the contact pressure of cleaning tools. However, the corresponding settings are only made after user confirmation to allow the user the possibility of reviewing the changed settings. Confirmation may be made, for example, through voice input and / or tactile input on the operating unit.

[0032] Alternatively, at least one operating parameter of the cleaning equipment can be configured to be set without user intervention, relying on cleaning-related support. Advantageously, the AI ​​module can facilitate the setting of operating parameters and preferably inform the user accordingly. For example, support might be presented in such a way that it is preferable to increase the dosage of cleaning agent or change the contact pressure of the cleaning tool, and the corresponding changes have been made or prompted by the AI ​​module. This simplifies the user's operation of the cleaning equipment.

[0033] It can be configured such that at least one operating parameter can only be set without user intervention, for example, if authorized by the user beforehand, such as through the system settings of the cleaning equipment. Without this authorization, user confirmation is required as described above. This authorization may, for example, apply only to the ongoing cleaning process, requiring a new authorization for subsequent cleaning processes after the process concludes. Alternatively, the authorization may, for example, remain valid until it is deactivated again.

[0034] Advantageously, the cleaning system includes a sensor unit for detecting images of the object to be cleaned during the operation of the cleaning equipment, wherein associated operational information is provided to a data processing unit, and wherein an AI module provides cleaning-related support based on sensor signals from the sensor unit indicating that the object to be cleaned has stains.

[0035] For example, a camera can be installed to create images of the object to be cleaned. An AI module can then evaluate the content of the images to create cleaning-related support. In floor cleaning equipment, for example, the camera images can identify the floor type, level of contamination, and / or type of stain. In floor cleaning equipment, sensor units can be designed, for example, to identify the floor material and / or the material of the stain.

[0036] It can be configured that the cleaning equipment constitutes the cleaning system.

[0037] The data processing unit has been discussed. At least one data processing unit can be provided. Multiple data processing units can be arranged spatially far apart from each other.

[0038] For example, cleaning equipment may include a data processing unit.

[0039] In particular, it is conceivable that an auxiliary device (such as a smartphone or tablet) that can be carried by a user and coupled or capable of being coupled to the cleaning equipment includes a data processing unit. The coupling between the smartphone or tablet and the cleaning equipment can preferably be achieved wirelessly, for example, via Bluetooth.

[0040] The cleaning system may have a data processing unit spatially located away from the cleaning equipment, and this data processing unit (if present) is also spatially located away from the auxiliary equipment. This data processing unit may be comprised of one or more servers, for example, as a cloud.

[0041] A user application can be configured to run on the attached device, through which the user accesses the AI ​​module, and / or the AI ​​module provides cleaning-related support via the user application. The user application on the attached device may itself include the AI ​​module. Alternatively, the AI ​​module may be invoked or have data transferred to it via the user application.

[0042] User applications, such as Apps, are applications that use the user's name.

[0043] The input unit of the cleaning system can, for example, be configured for user voice and / or text input. In practice, voice input has proven advantageous. Preferably, the interaction between the user and the AI ​​module takes the form of a voice dialogue.

[0044] The input unit may be arranged on or included in the cleaning equipment.

[0045] Alternatively or supplementally, the input unit may be arranged on or included in an auxiliary device that can be carried by the user and coupled to or can be coupled to the cleaning equipment.

[0046] Alternatively or supplementarily, the input unit may be arranged on or included in a separate device coupled to or capable of being coupled to the cleaning device or auxiliary device. For example, a headset may be provided for the user for voice input and voice output.

[0047] For voice input, at least one microphone is provided. For text input, a touch-sensitive screen (touchscreen) can be provided, for example.

[0048] Alternatively or supplementarily, the input unit can be configured to provide the AI ​​module with an image, such as an image of the object to be cleaned, based on which stains can be determined and, in particular, evaluated. For this purpose, the input unit may include, for example, a camera.

[0049] The output unit is configured, for example, for voice output, and includes, in particular, a speaker for this purpose.

[0050] Alternatively or supplementarily, the output unit may be configured, for example, to output text and / or images to a user, particularly via a driveable image display.

[0051] The output unit can be arranged on the cleaning equipment or included in the cleaning equipment.

[0052] Alternatively or supplementally, the output unit may be arranged on or included in an auxiliary device that can be carried by the user and coupled to or coupled to the cleaning equipment.

[0053] Alternatively or additionally, the output unit may be arranged on or included in a separate device coupled to or capable of being coupled to the cleaning device or auxiliary device. The possibility of using a headset has been discussed with respect to the input unit.

[0054] The possibility of voice input has been discussed. Voice control is particularly conceivable. For example, user voice input could include setting at least one operating parameter to ensure optimal cleaning of a specific floor type. This floor type could be pre-defined by the user and / or identified by a sensor unit. The setting of the operating parameter could be automatic without user intervention or only after user confirmation.

[0055] In the example scenario in the previous paragraph, it can be configured that the cleaning device stores settings for at least one operating parameter for future cleaning processes and automatically performs those settings during future cleaning processes.

[0056] In particular, it can be configured that at least one operating parameter is set in relation to positioning, and that positioning-related information about the operating parameter is stored. For this purpose, the cleaning equipment may include a positioning unit so that its location within the environment can be automatically determined.

[0057] It should be understood that AI modules can be designed to learn on their own.

[0058] Advantageously, the AI ​​module utilizes at least one storage unit to analyze operational information and / or to create cleaning-related support.

[0059] Cleaning equipment may include a storage unit.

[0060] Additional devices that can be carried by the user and coupled to or can be coupled to the cleaning equipment may include storage units.

[0061] The cleaning system may include storage units that are spatially located away from the cleaning equipment.

[0062] To train the AI ​​module, at least one storage unit may include at least one of the following: user-recorded experience using the cleaning equipment, experience from the development and / or application technologies of the cleaning equipment, feedback and / or information from customer opinion surveys, operating instructions for the cleaning equipment, and operating instructions for other types of cleaning equipment.

[0063] Advantageously, the contents of at least one storage unit are changeable, and in particular, expandable.

[0064] User-guided cleaning equipment can be, for example, hand-guided.

[0065] Cleaning equipment, such as floor cleaning equipment.

[0066] In particular, the cleaning equipment can be a floor scrubber and vacuum dryer.

[0067] As mentioned at the beginning, the present invention also relates to a method. A method according to the present invention for operating a cleaning system, particularly a cleaning system of the type described above (wherein, at least one cleaning tool is applied directly or indirectly to the object to be cleaned) comprises: - During the operation of the cleaning equipment, detect at least one operating parameter of the cleaning equipment, the noise that occurs, and / or the vibration that occurs during operation; - Provides related operational information; - Utilize AI modules to analyze operational information to determine if the information indicates stains on the object to be cleaned; and - Provides users with cleaning-related support aimed at removing stains through an AI module.

[0068] The advantages already mentioned in explaining the cleaning system according to the invention can also be achieved by implementing the method. Advantageous embodiments of the method are obtained through advantageous implementations of the cleaning system. The foregoing statements may be cited separately. Attached Figure Description

[0069] The following description of preferred embodiments of the invention is used to explain the invention in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Preferred embodiments of the cleaning system are used to perform advantageous embodiments of the method according to the invention. Wherein: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a cleaning system according to the present invention is shown, the cleaning system comprising a hand-guided cleaning device; and Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A perspective view of the operating unit of the cleaning equipment; Detailed Implementation

[0070] Figure 1 An advantageous embodiment of the cleaning system according to the invention, generally occupies reference numeral 100, is shown schematically. Currently, the cleaning system 100 is a floor cleaning system having a cleaning device 102 in the form of a floor cleaning apparatus. The cleaning device 102 is particularly a floor scrubber / dryer 104, which can be moved by a user 106 to clean an object 108 to be cleaned. In this example, the object 108 to be cleaned is a floor surface 110. The floor scrubber / dryer 104 is both user-guided and hand-guided.

[0071] To clean floor surface 110, the floor scrubber 104 includes a cleaning tool 112, which includes a cleaning brush 114, particularly a disc brush. The cleaning tool 112 includes a drive motor 116 to drive the cleaning brush 114.

[0072] As an additional cleaning tool 112, the floor scrubber 104 includes a suction device 118 having a suction strip 120 and a suction unit 122 for generating negative pressure. The suction unit 122 includes a drive motor 124.

[0073] In addition, the floor scrubber 104 also includes, for example, a dispensing device 126 for cleaning solutions (especially water). An additional dispensing device 128 may be provided for dispensing another cleaning solution, especially a cleaning chemical.

[0074] In order to move on the ground surface 110, the floor scrubber 104 includes a walking mechanism 130, and the driving device of the walking mechanism includes a drive motor 132.

[0075] The floor scrubber / dryer 104 includes a control unit 134 configured to control and / or regulate operation and is operatively connected to the aforementioned components (e.g., drive motors 116, 124, 132 and dispensing devices 126, 128). Values ​​of operating parameters can be provided to the control unit 134. For example, the motor speeds of drive motors 116, 124, and 132, the current consumption of these motors, the voltage applied to the motors, and / or their temperature are provided.

[0076] Conversely, the control unit 134 can influence, for example, the drive motors 116, 124, 132 and the dispensing devices 126, 128.

[0077] The control unit 134 can detect the operating parameters during the operation of the floor scrubber 104 and forward the relevant operating information as described below.

[0078] The floor scrubber 104 may include, for example, a sensor unit 136. For example, the sensor unit 136 may create an image of the floor surface 110 and send the associated sensor signals to the control unit 134.

[0079] Sensor unit 136 may include, for example, a microphone 138 as a sensor element to detect noise occurring during the operation of the floor scrubber 104. Alternatively or supplementarily, a vibration sensor 140 may be provided as a sensor element to detect vibration occurring during the operation of the floor scrubber 104. The associated operational information may be sent to control unit 134. Furthermore, a camera 137 may be provided, for example, to capture images of the floor surface 110.

[0080] For user 106 to guide, the floor scrubber 104 includes an operating unit 142. Operating elements are present on the operating unit 142, such as a program selection switch 144 and a travel joystick 146 for setting the travel speed and direction.

[0081] Preferably, the operating unit 142 is provided with a housing 148 for an external auxiliary device 150 that can be carried by the user 106.

[0082] Figure 1 A smartphone 152 and a tablet 154 are shown as examples of add-on devices 150, where the presence of both add-on devices 150 is optional.

[0083] A smartphone 152 or tablet computer 154 can be removably positioned in a defined location within a housing 148. Figure 2 Advantageously, there is coupling between the auxiliary device 150 and the floor scrubber 104 (especially its control unit 134). For example, there is coupling via Bluetooth.

[0084] Advantageously, information can be transmitted bidirectionally. For example, the aforementioned operating information can be transmitted from the control unit 134 to the auxiliary device 150. Conversely, operating instructions or information, such as those affecting the drive motors 116, 124, 132 or the dispensing devices 126, 128, can be transmitted.

[0085] By arranging the auxiliary device 150 in the housing 148, the user 106 can access the auxiliary device 150 in a user-friendly and intuitive way in terms of information input and / or information perception at the output of the auxiliary device.

[0086] The auxiliary device 150 includes an input unit 156, which currently includes a touch-sensitive screen (touchscreen 158) and a microphone 160.

[0087] In addition, the auxiliary device 150 includes a controllable output unit 162, which includes a touch screen 158 and a speaker 164.

[0088] Accordingly, the auxiliary device 150 is designed for voice input and voice output. Additionally, the auxiliary device 150 is also designed for text input and image input, as well as text output and image output via the touchscreen 154.

[0089] The additional device 150 may include a sensor unit 166. The sensor unit 166 particularly includes a microphone 160 as a sensor element to detect noise during the operation of the scrubber 104.

[0090] In addition, the sensor unit 166 currently includes a vibration sensor 168 to detect vibrations that occur during operation.

[0091] In addition, sensor unit 166 may include camera 169 to capture images of ground surface 110.

[0092] The auxiliary device 150 includes a data processing unit 170, which enables bidirectional communication with the control unit 134, for example.

[0093] For example, the auxiliary device 150 stores a user application in the form of an App that can be implemented by the data processing unit 170.

[0094] Currently, the data processing unit 170 includes an AI module 172 (AI, Artificial Intelligence). The AI ​​module 172 is configured and programmed to analyze operational information provided by the control unit 134. Specifically, the AI ​​module 172 can determine that the operational information indicates the presence of stains on the floor surface 110. For this purpose, the AI ​​module 172 is configured and programmed to independently evaluate operational information during the operation of the floor scrubber 104 without user intervention 106. Preferably, there is a possibility of determining the type of stain.

[0095] Stains are a particular cause of changes in at least one operating parameter. For example, depending on the nature of the stain, the motor speed of the drive motor 116 for cleaning brush 114 may change, or current consumption may increase when cleaning brush 114 picks up stains. For example, the floor scrubber 104 may slow down its movement over stains, which can be determined from the motor speed of drive motor 132. Further examples have been illustrated above regarding how stains may cause changes in operating parameters.

[0096] Alternatively or supplementarily, noise or vibration can be detected (via microphone 138 or 160) via sensor unit 136 and / or sensor unit 166, wherein the noise or vibration is attributed to the presence of a stain. For example, the noise may vary depending on the nature of the stain (e.g., solid or liquid). It is also conceivable that the vibration may propagate or vary depending on the nature of the stain (soft, hard, coarse-grained).

[0097] AI module 172 is configured to provide user 106 with cleaning-related support 174 aimed at stain removal via output unit 162. Cleaning-related support 174 may, for example, be visually displayed on accessory device 150 as shown in the figure. Alternatively or additionally, cleaning-related support 174 may be provided, in particular, via voice output.

[0098] For this purpose, AI module 172 can access storage unit 176. Currently, storage unit 176 is included by attached device 150.

[0099] The storage unit 176 is filled with information for training the AI ​​module 172, and preferably includes user-recorded experience of using the floor scrubber 104, experience from the development and / or application technology of the floor scrubber 104, feedback and / or information from customer opinion solicitations, operating instructions for the floor scrubber 104, and also includes operating instructions for other types of cleaning equipment.

[0100] To improve cleaning effectiveness by removing identified stains, user 106 can utilize cleaning-related support 174. For example, support 174 may include at least one of the following: - Suggestions regarding guiding the floor scrubber 104, such as forward or backward and / or setting the travel speed; - Recommendations regarding setting at least one operating parameter for the floor scrubber / dryer 104; - Recommendations regarding the use of appropriate cleaning tools 112; - Recommendations regarding the use and / or dosage of at least one cleaning agent, in the context of the current use of cleaning chemicals; - Recommendations regarding floor surface 110 that cannot be cleaned or is not adequately cleaned by the floor scrubber 104; - Recommendations on purchasing other types of cleaning tools 112 and / or cleaning agents (including cleaning chemicals).

[0101] One or more such suggestions may, for example, instruct the user 106 to set or act on one of the mentioned components of the scrubber 104: cleaning tool 112, drive motors 116, 124, 132, dispensing device 126, 128, program selection switch 144, and travel joystick 146. Additional components may also be provided.

[0102] For example, one could conceive of changing the rotational speed and / or contact pressure of the drive motor 116, adjusting the suction power of the suction device 118, changing the travel speed, selecting the cleaning program via the program selection switch 134, and changing the dosage of cleaning agent and / or cleaning chemicals via the dispensing devices 126 and 128.

[0103] It can be configured that this setting is only performed after confirmation by user 106, wherein confirmation is performed, for example, via input unit 156 and requested via output unit 162. Alternatively, as discussed, it can be configured that the operating parameters of the floor scrubber 104 are automatically determined by cleaning-related support 174, and if necessary, after prior authorization by the user, as described.

[0104] It is conceivable that an image of the ground surface 110 is created via camera 137 of sensor unit 136. Alternatively or supplementarily, for example, an image can be created by camera 169 of sensor unit 166. Based on this operational information, it is preferably analyzed by AI module 172 to determine whether there are stains on the ground surface 110. Cleaning-related support 174 can also be provided on this basis.

[0105] Of particular advantage is that the type and / or degree of stain can be determined. Advantageously, the material of the stain can be determined.

[0106] In this embodiment, at least one auxiliary device 150 is used in the cleaning system 100. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the auxiliary device 150 may be omitted, wherein the cleaning device 102 constitutes the cleaning system 100 alone. For example, the control unit 134 may constitute the data processing unit 170.

[0107] Figure 1A data processing unit 170, spatially arranged away from the floor scrubber 104 and auxiliary device 150, is schematically shown in dashed lines. This data processing unit can be used, for example, as a substitute for the data processing unit 170 of auxiliary device 150, and is in a bidirectional communication connection with auxiliary device 150. The data processing unit 170 can be implemented, for example, as a cloud 178. Alternatively, it can be, for example, a single computer (server, etc.).

[0108] The data processing unit 170 may include a storage unit 176, as schematically shown in a cloud-based implementation. Alternatively, the storage unit 176 may be formed separately from the data processing unit 170. This possibility exists even when using an additional device having its own data processing unit 170.

[0109] The use of the data processing unit 170, which is spatially distant, can be made with or without the auxiliary device 150. Communication connections can be made, for example, directly between the floor scrubber 104 and the data processing unit 170 and / or via the auxiliary device 150.

[0110] List of reference numerals

[0111] 100 Cleaning System

[0112] 102 Cleaning Equipment

[0113] 104 Floor Scrubber Dryer

[0114] 106 users

[0115] 108 objects

[0116] 110 Earth Surface

[0117] 112 Cleaning tools

[0118] 114 Cleaning Brush

[0119] 116 drive motor

[0120] 118 Suction Device

[0121] 120 suction strip

[0122] 122 Suction Unit

[0123] 124 drive motors

[0124] 126 Metering device

[0125] 128 Dosing device

[0126] 130 Walking Mechanism

[0127] 132 drive motor

[0128] 134 Control Unit

[0129] 136 sensor units

[0130] 137 cameras

[0131] 138 microphones

[0132] 140 Vibration Sensor

[0133] 142 Operation Units

[0134] 144 Program Selection Switch

[0135] 146 Travel control lever

[0136] 148. Accommodation Department

[0137] 150 Additional Equipment

[0138] 152 Smartphones

[0139] 154 tablet PC

[0140] 156 Input Units

[0141] 158 touchscreens

[0142] 160 microphones

[0143] 162 Output Units

[0144] 164 speakers

[0145] 166 sensor units

[0146] 168 Vibration Sensor

[0147] 169 cameras

[0148] 170 Data Processing Units

[0149] 172 AI Modules

[0150] 174 Cleaning-related support

[0151] 176 storage units

[0152] 178 Cloud

Claims

1. A cleaning system, the cleaning system comprising: User-guided cleaning equipment (102) having at least one cleaning tool (112) for directly or indirectly acting on the object (108) to be cleaned. Output unit (162) that can be driven and controlled. And a data processing unit (170). Among them, it can detect at least one operating parameter of the cleaning equipment (102) during its operation, noise occurring during operation, and / or vibration occurring during operation. And the related operational information is provided to the data processing unit (170). The data processing unit (170) includes or constitutes an AI module (172). The AI ​​module (172) analyzes the operation information to determine that the operation information indicates that the object (108) to be cleaned has stains, and the AI ​​module (172) provides cleaning-related support (174) to the user (106) via the output unit (162) for stain removal.

2. The cleaning system according to claim 1, Its features are, Detect at least one of the following as at least one operating parameter: - Operating parameters indicating the performance of the drive motor (116, 124, 132) for the cleaning tool (112) or the performance of the cleaning tool (112), especially speed, current consumption or temperature; - Operating parameters indicating the performance of the drive motors (116, 124, 132) used for the walking mechanism (130) or the performance of the walking mechanism (130), especially speed, current consumption or temperature.

3. The cleaning system according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, The cleaning system (100) includes sensor units (136, 166) for detecting noise and / or vibration, wherein at least one of the following is applicable: - The cleaning device (102) includes the sensor unit (136, 166). - An external auxiliary device (150) that can be carried by a user (106) includes the sensor unit (136, 166), wherein the auxiliary device (150) is coupled to or can be coupled to the cleaning device (102).

4. The cleaning system according to claim 3, Its features are, The cleaning device (102), particularly the operating unit (142), includes a housing (148) for the auxiliary device (150), which is detachably arranged in a defined position within the housing (148).

5. The cleaning system according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The cleaning-related support (174) is provided in the form of cleaning recommendations, which include at least one of the following: - Recommendations regarding the guidance of the cleaning equipment (102); - Recommendations regarding setting at least one operating parameter of the cleaning equipment (102); - Recommendations regarding the use of at least one cleaning tool (112); - Recommendations regarding the use and / or dosage of at least one cleaning agent; - Recommendations regarding the object (108) being unable or not being adequately cleaned by the cleaning equipment (102); - Advice on the selection of cleaning tools (112) and / or cleaning agents.

6. The cleaning system according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The cleaning-related support (174) includes at least one of the following: - Explanation of when the stains that cannot be removed appeared; - Instructions on locating stains that cannot be removed.

7. The cleaning system according to claim 6, Its features are, The AI ​​module (172) is constructed and programmed to create a report on cleaning after cleaning is completed, the report including information on at least one of the following: the duration of cleaning, the area cleaned, whether the cleaning was successful, and location-related descriptions of the cleaning quality.

8. The cleaning system according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, At least one operating parameter of the cleaning device (102) depends on the cleaning-related support (174) and is set either after prior confirmation by the user (106) or without user (106) intervention.

9. The cleaning system according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The cleaning system (100) includes sensor units (136, 166) for detecting images of an object (108) to be cleaned during operation of the cleaning equipment (102), wherein associated operational information is provided to the data processing unit (170), wherein the AI ​​module (172) provides cleaning-related support (174) based on sensor signals from the sensor units (136, 166) indicating that the object (108) to be cleaned has stains.

10. The cleaning system according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, At least one of the following applies: - The cleaning device (102) includes the data processing unit (170); - An auxiliary device (150) that can be carried by a user (106) and coupled or capable of being coupled to the cleaning device (102) includes the data processing unit (170). - The cleaning system (100) has a data processing unit (170) arranged spatially away from the cleaning equipment (102).

11. The cleaning system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that have A user application that can run on the additional device (150), through which the user (106) accesses the AI ​​module (172) and / or through which the AI ​​module (172) provides cleaning-related support (174).

12. The cleaning system according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The output unit (162) is configured to provide voice output and / or text output and / or image output to the user (106).

13. The cleaning system according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The output unit (162) is arranged on the cleaning device (102) and / or on an auxiliary device (150) that can be carried by a user (106) and coupled or capable of being coupled to the cleaning device (102), or included in the cleaning device / the auxiliary device, and / or arranged on a separate device coupled or capable of being coupled to the cleaning device (102) or the auxiliary device (150).

14. The cleaning system according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The AI ​​module (172) utilizes at least one storage unit (176) to interpret and / or analyze cleaning-related queries and / or to create cleaning-related support (174), wherein at least one of the following applies to the storage unit: - The cleaning device (102) includes the storage unit (176); - An auxiliary device (150) that can be carried by a user (106) and coupled or capable of being coupled to the cleaning device (102) includes the storage unit (176). - The cleaning system (100) has a storage unit (176) arranged spatially away from the cleaning equipment (102).

15. The cleaning system according to claim 14, Its features are, The at least one storage unit (176) includes at least one of the following: - User's (106) experience using the cleaning equipment (102); - Experience from the development and / or application technologies of the cleaning equipment (102); - Feedback and / or information from customer feedback solicitations; - Operating instructions for the cleaning equipment (102); - Operating instructions for other types of cleaning equipment (102).

16. The cleaning system according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The cleaning equipment (102) is a hand-guided and / or floor cleaning equipment, especially a floor scrubber and dryer (104).

17. Method for operating a cleaning system having a user-guided cleaning device, in particular a cleaning system according to any one of the preceding claims, in which method at least one cleaning tool is used to act directly or indirectly on an object to be cleaned, wherein The method includes: - During the operation of the cleaning equipment, at least one operating parameter of the cleaning equipment, noise that occurs, and / or vibration that occurs during operation are detected; - Provides related operational information; - The operation information is analyzed using an AI module to determine if the operation information indicates that the object to be cleaned has stains; - The AI ​​module provides users with cleaning-related support aimed at removing stains.

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