Side pad and robotic sweeper

Abstract

A side pad (100) for a floor cleaning robot (200) for cleaning a floor (50) is disclosed. The side pad (100) comprises a tiling element (110) for cleaning the floor, a fixing element (120) for rotatably fixing at the floor cleaning robot (200) around a rotation axis (R) of the tiling element (110), and a reinforcement element (130) formed of a non-elastic material (135) for reinforcing the tiling element (110). The tiling element (110) is partially formed of an elastic material. The fixing element (110) is at least partially formed of an elastic material. The reinforcement element (130) extends in a radial direction with respect to the rotation axis (R) only in a radially inner region (112). A radially edge region (113) of the tiling element (110) is formed of the elastic material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a side pad for a robotic vacuum cleaner, a robotic vacuum cleaner, and more particularly to a side pad structure. Background Technology

[0002] Side pads are used to optimize edge cleaning while attempting to ensure a flat, pressed fit against the ground. An example of such a pad is described in CN 221 730440 U. Here, force is introduced via an axis and transmitted to a cloth via a soft cone. Thus, the cloth should adhere persistently and evenly to the surface to be cleaned. This type of pad has several disadvantages. The side pads disclosed therein are formed as rigid and therefore do not adequately fit the surface to be cleaned. Additionally, such pads tend to stand up and wrinkle due to the softer edge areas. Sustained adhesion cannot be achieved in the edge areas.

[0003] CN116172463A describes other conventional side pads, in which these pads are formed entirely of flexible materials and therefore only show insufficient cleaning effect.

[0004] Therefore, a new type of side pad is needed, which overcomes the shortcomings of the conventional side pads mentioned above. Summary of the Invention

[0005] At least some of the above-mentioned problems are achieved by the side pads for a robotic vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, the robotic vacuum cleaner according to claim 17, and the method according to claim 19. The dependent claims define advantageous designs that cover the subject matter of the independent claims.

[0006] This invention relates to a side pad. The side pad is configured for use by a robotic vacuum cleaner to clean floors or surfaces. The side pad includes a tiling element, a fixing element, and a reinforcing element. The tiling element is used to clean the floor, wherein a portion of the tiling element is formed of an elastic material. The fixing element is used to rotatably fix the tiling element (about a rotation axis) to the robotic vacuum cleaner. The fixing element is partially or entirely formed of an elastic material. The reinforcing element is formed of a non-elastic material and is used to reinforce the tiling element. The reinforcing element extends only in the radially inner region relative to the rotation axis in the radial direction, while the radially edge region of the tiling element is formed of the elastic material.

[0007] The tiling element can be formed, for example, in a disc shape, and the fixing element can be formed in a rod shape. The fixing element, being at least partially formed of an elastic material, thus allows the tiling element to pivot perpendicular to the axis of rotation. The fixing element can also be composed entirely of an elastic material. This provides the technical effect that the side pads can flexibly adapt to the ground during rotational movement and thus ensure planar cleanliness. Within the scope of this disclosure, the elastic material is defined as follows: it can deform, compress, or bend and subsequently return to its original shape and size. During the typical cleaning motion of a robotic vacuum cleaner, the elastic material can be continuously deformed (e.g., by bending or compression) or provide spring-like movement without breaking. Examples of elastic materials include rubber, fabric, foam, etc. A non-elastic material can be defined as follows: it cannot be compressed (at least not by human force) or, if bent, either breaks directly or only undergoes plastic deformation. It lacks restoring force. Examples of non-elastic materials are plastics, resins, ceramics, metals, etc.

[0008] Optionally, the reinforcing element is coupled to the fixing element and can extend in a disc, annular, or disk-shaped manner from the axis of rotation toward the radial edge region. This results in a higher compressive pressure toward the ground in the radial edge region—compared to the radial inner region.

[0009] The term "disc-shaped" should be interpreted broadly and is not necessarily limited to an elliptical or deep dish. The reinforcing element can have a flat disc shape (i.e., flat in the central region), as long as the reinforcing element has a sloped or tapered section towards the edge, so that greater compressive pressure is achieved in the edge region than in the central region. Thus, the edge region adheres more closely to the ground than the central region. The embodiment achieves the desired improved cleaning with increased edge compressive pressure. However, the reinforcing element can also be formed flat, such as in the form of a ring or disc, as long as it ensures that the pressure applied is greater in the edge region. For this purpose, the ring or disc can, for example, extend tapered at the edge. Alternatively or additionally, it is also possible to form more flexible material between the reinforcing element and the ground in the edge region, so that the edge region is pressed more forcefully against the ground under planar compressive pressure.

[0010] According to embodiments, the reinforcing element may have different shapes or be formed in different types, particularly being formed as one or more of the following: - Formed as a tiling ring on the vertically above surface of the tiling element. - Formed as an annular surface area for the tiled element. - Formed as a ring embedded in the tiled element - Formed as an adhesive layer for securing the fabric to the flat element. - Formed as Velcro for securing fabric to the lay-up element. - Formed into a covered molded element - Formed into injection molded components, - Formed as a combination of at least two of the above shapes.

[0011] The reinforcing element may also have multiple components, which may be formed as defined herein. The fixing element and / or the tiling element can also be integrally formed. These two components, or only one of them, can be formed monolithically from an elastic material, in which the reinforcing element can be embedded (e.g., overmolded). Alternatively or additionally, the reinforcing element or a component thereof can be fitted over the monolithic component from above as a cover and secured there to transmit compressive force.

[0012] The vertical direction can be defined, for example, as the direction of gravity (e.g., when cleaning a floor, that is, not a sidewall or ceiling), such that the horizontal direction is perpendicular to it. Terms such as "top" and "bottom" can be defined relative to the vertical direction because the direction "upward" is opposite to gravity, while "downward" is in the direction of gravity. The axial direction can be understood as the direction extending parallel (or antiparallel) to the axis of rotation. Thus, the radial direction is perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0013] According to an embodiment, the reinforcing element may be fastened to the tiling element or be part of it to a certain extent. However, according to an embodiment, the reinforcing element may also be a separate element formed independently of the tiling element at the robot vacuum (e.g., when it is formed as a tiling disc or ring).

[0014] Optionally, the tiling element includes through-holes for water to guide water from the robot vacuum cleaner to the floor through the tiling element.

[0015] Optionally, the through-hole has an inner through-hole in the inner region and / or an outer through-hole in the outer region. The inner through-hole may, for example, pass vertically through the reinforcing element and extend elongatedly in the radial direction. The elongated shape of the inner through-hole provides the following technical effect: due to centrifugal force, water is thus guided outward along the longitudinal direction. This allows for uniform distribution over the entire radial region of the side pad. Optionally, the tiling element includes basins associated with through holes to collect water from the robot vacuum before being guided through the associated through holes. The advantage of the basin is that the robotic vacuum cleaner only needs to provide water at one location and can first collect the water in the basin, then the water continuously passes through the through-holes during the rotation of the side pads. This allows for uniform wetting of the floor during the rotation of the side pads. Optionally, the tiling element includes a fabric cover on at least one surface of the tiling element facing the ground. The fabric cover also only needs to be formed on or on this surface.

[0016] Optionally, the fabric covering joins the radial edge region entirely or partially around it. The fabric covering may also extend partially onto the surface of the tiling element facing away from the ground.

[0017] Optionally, the fabric covering is water-permeable and the fabric covering either covers or exposes the through-hole. Optionally, the fabric cover is formed annularly with an opening at the through-hole in the radially outer region. The fabric cover can be secured in the radially outer region via adhesive or Velcro.

[0018] According to an embodiment, the fabric covering may be a flexible material or formed of the elastic material. The fabric covering may also be bonded to the laid-out element. The adhesive layer may then serve as a reinforcement. For this purpose, the adhesive layer may, for example, be a non-elastic material, such as resin, so as to serve as a reinforcement.

[0019] The aforementioned basin, together with the fabric covering on the tiling element, provides a particularly synergistic effect. The fabric covering, for example, prevents water from immediately draining onto the floor, as the fabric can be saturated or there can be fabric remaining between the opening and the floor. The basin thus creates a small water reservoir that can be continuously emptied during rotation. This water reservoir can therefore act as a buffer, as water demand may vary during cleaning. Optionally, the reinforcing element includes radially extending reinforcing ribs. The reinforcing ribs may be present on the top and bottom surfaces or only on one side as reinforcing elements. The fixing element may be formed in the shape of a rod. Optionally, the fixing element has at least one of the following features or provides one or more of the following functions: - A plug-in connection for securing the side pad to the robotic vacuum cleaner. - A rotating retainer for transmitting torque from the robotic vacuum cleaner to the side pads. -Hollow cylindrical carrier element, - A synchronizing element formed of a non-elastic material that extends at least partially axially, the synchronizing element being at least partially embedded in the elastic material of the fixing element.

[0020] According to an embodiment, the plug-in connection itself can be formed as a snap-in element. Optionally or additionally, the plug-in connection can achieve a rotational fixation member through a form-fitting connection. Optionally, the rotating fastener can be formed as a protrusion and extend in the axial direction. The rotating fastener can engage in a corresponding groove or an elongated recess of the robotic vacuum cleaner. Optionally, the rotating fastener can be directly connected as a radial protrusion to the disc-shaped section of the tiling element to prevent twisting of the tiling element and the fastener.

[0021] Optionally, the fixing element includes a stamp-shaped extension coupled to the reinforcing element and / or the tiling element. According to an embodiment, the rotating fixing member is coupled to the stamp-shaped extension to transmit torque from the robotic vacuum cleaner to the reinforcing element and / or the tiling element.

[0022] The fixing element thus serves as a synchronizing element, transmitting rotational motion to the tiling element without relative torsion. Simultaneously, it reliably transmits the axial compressive force. Furthermore, using a flexible material for the fixing element allows for radial elastic bending within a predetermined range.

[0023] According to the embodiment, the size can be selected within a wide range. Thus, optionally, the outer diameter of the radial inner region is in the range of 25% to 90%, 25% to 75%, 35% to 55%, or between 40% and 50% compared to the outer diameter of the tiling element.

[0024] According to embodiments, various materials can also be used. The elastic material may have at least one of the following: rubber, elastomer, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), polyurethane (PU), elastomer-type injection molding material, thermoplastic. The non-elastic material may have at least one of the following: overmolding material, casting material, thermoplastic material, adhesive, resin. These two materials can be inseparably connected to each other in the side pad.

[0025] Optionally, the side pads may have the following outer diameters: greater than 30 mm, between 40 mm and 70 mm, between 100 mm and 150 mm, up to 200 mm, about 130 mm, about 140 mm, or about 150 mm.

[0026] The embodiments also relate to a robotic vacuum cleaner for cleaning floors, wherein the robotic vacuum cleaner has at least one side pad as described in this disclosure.

[0027] Optionally, the robotic vacuum cleaner includes at least one of the following: - A lifting mechanism, said lifting mechanism being used to set the vertical height of the at least one side pad. - A pre-tightening mechanism for applying compressive force from the side pad to the ground. - A cleaning roller, wherein at least one side pad is formed on one or both axial sides of the cleaning roller. - A water supply device for the side pads, - A drive unit for moving the robotic vacuum cleaner. - The motor that drives the side pad. - A control unit for controlling the drive unit and / or motor.

[0028] The embodiments also relate to a method for manufacturing a side pad as described in this disclosure. The method includes, for example, the following steps: - Provides a tiling element for cleaning the floor, wherein a portion of the tiling element is formed of an elastic material; - Forming a fixing element for rotatably fixing to the robotic vacuum cleaner about a rotation axis of the tiling element, wherein the fixing element is at least partially formed of an elastic material; and - The tiling element is reinforced by means of a non-elastic material, wherein the corresponding reinforcing element extends only in the radially inner region relative to the axis of rotation in the radial direction, and the radial edge region of the tiling element is formed by the elastic material.

[0029] It should be understood that the manufacturing method may include other optional steps for forming all of the above features.

[0030] The advantages of this embodiment arise from the combination of elastic and inelastic materials used for the various components. On one hand, the embodiment ensures high compressive pressure on the ground in the edge regions of the side pads. On the other hand, the embodiment can compensate for varying unevenness of the ground or ensure permanent planar support of the tiling element on the ground. Attached Figure Description

[0031] The embodiments of the invention will be better understood with the aid of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings of various embodiments; however, these embodiments should not be construed as limiting the present disclosure to the specific embodiments, but are merely for illustration and understanding.

[0032] Figure 1A, 1B A side pad for a robotic vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0033] Figure 2A , 2B A side pad according to another embodiment is shown.

[0034] Figure 3A , 3B A side pad according to another embodiment is shown.

[0035] Figure 4A , 4B A side pad according to another embodiment is shown.

[0036] Figure 5A , 5B A side pad according to another embodiment is shown.

[0037] Figure 6 An example of a side pad used in a robotic vacuum cleaner is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Figure 1A , 1B A side pad 100 for a robotic vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The side pad is configured for cleaning the floor 50 by the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Figure 1A A spatial view of the side pad 100 is shown, while Figure 1B A cross-sectional view along the rotation axis R of the side pad 100 and the bottom surface of the sweeping robot 200 are shown.

[0039] The side pad 100 includes a flat element 110, a fixing element 120, and a reinforcing element 130.

[0040] The tiling element 110 is partially formed of an elastic material and is used for cleaning the floor 50. For this purpose, it can be laid flat on the floor 50. According to an embodiment, the side pad 100 includes a radially inner region 112 and a radially edge region 113 extending around the radially inner region 112. The radially edge region 113 may be formed of an elastic material.

[0041] The radial inner region 112 may extend, for example, over two-thirds of the diameter of the entire tiling element 110, while the radial edge region 113 forms approximately one-third of the circumference. Optionally, the outer diameter of the radial inner region 112 is formed in a region different from the outer diameter of the tiling element 110. Thus, this outer diameter may, for example, be formed to be 25% to 90% of the entire region, or in the range between 25% and 75%, or in the range between 35% and 55%, or ideally between 40% and 50%.

[0042] The fixing element 120 is configured to rotatably fix the side pad 100 about the rotation axis R of the tiling element 110 to the sweeping robot 200. For this purpose, the sweeping robot 200 may include, for example, a hollowed-out portion (see...). Figure 1B The bracket 205 and the fixing element 120 can be inserted into the hollowed-out portion. The fixing element 110 is at least partially formed of an elastic material. The elastic material of the fixing element 110 may be, for example, the same elastic material used to (partially) form a portion of the tiling element 110.

[0043] The reinforcing element 130 is formed of a non-elastic material and is used to reinforce the tiling element 110. The reinforcing element 130 extends only in the radially inner region 112 relative to the axis of rotation R in the radial direction.

[0044] exist Figure 1A , 1B In one embodiment, the tiling element 110 is formed circumferentially around the reinforcing element 130, specifically in the radial edge region 113. Exemplarily, only the reinforcing element 130 and the fixing element 120 connected thereto are formed in the radial inner region 112.

[0045] According to an embodiment, the reinforcing element 130 is coupled to the fixing element 120 to, for example, transfer compressive force from the robot vacuum cleaner 200 to the reinforcing element 130 and thereto to the tiling element 110. The tiling element 110, and optionally only the tiling element 110, then applies compressive pressure to the ground.

[0046] Additionally, the side pad 100 shown includes optional through-holes 116, with an inner through-hole 116a formed in the inner region 112 and an outer through-hole 116b formed in the edge region 113. The through-holes 116 are used to supply water in the area between the side pad 100 and the floor 50, where water can be supplied by a robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The inner through-hole 116a extends radially, for example, in an elongated shape, such that centrifugal force guides the introduced water outwards.

[0047] However, alternatively or additionally, the inner through-hole 116a can also be used as a ventilation opening in the space 55 between the side pad 100 and the ground 50.

[0048] Figure 1B Further details of the reinforcing element 130 are shown, which may be formed, for example, in the form of a flat disc or a flat dome. A space 55 may be formed in the radially inner region 112, for example, between the ground 50 and the bottom surface of the side pad 100, with the space having the maximum height in the region of the axis of rotation R.

[0049] According to an embodiment, the space 55 formed below the side pad 100 can have a first opening angle α in the radially inner region and a second opening angle β in the radially edge region 113, where β > α, thus creating a disc shape for the reinforcing element 130. In other words, the reinforcing element 130 can taper towards the edge in a cross-sectional view, such that a greater distance from the ground 50 is formed in the radially inner region 112 compared to the radially edge region 113.

[0050] Alternatively or additionally, the reinforcing element 130 may also extend in a ring-shaped or disc-shaped manner, such that the reinforcing element may be open in the radially inner region 112 or engaged therein with or fastened to the fixing element 120. Then, the tiling element 110 may be fastened, for example, to the outer edge of the disc-shaped reinforcing element 130 and extend at an angle toward the ground 50.

[0051] Alternatively or additionally, the reinforcing element 130 may also be formed flat or planar in the radial inner region 112 and taper only in the radial edge region 130 (towards the ground 50).

[0052] Regardless of the specific design, the reinforcing element 130 achieves increased compressive pressure on the ground 50 in the edge region 113 compared to the radially inner region 112. This achieves the desired improved cleaning effect, while the elastic material in the fixing element 120 allows for flexibility in the bending direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation R, thereby always ensuring planar contact with the ground 50.

[0053] The fixing element 120, in this and other embodiments, may have a hollow cylindrical carrier element 126 in the upper axial region, the carrier element having an axially extending opening 127. The advantage of the hollow cylindrical design is that it can be slightly bent in the radial direction, allowing the side pad 100 to better adapt to the ground 50 or unevenness on the ground 50—especially when the hollow cylindrical carrier element 126 is formed of an elastic material. Alternatively or additionally, the fixing element 120 may have a synchronizing element 128 formed of a non-elastic material that extends at least partially axially, the synchronizing element being at least partially embedded in the elastic material of the fixing element 120 or extending along the inner wall of the opening 127. The synchronizing element 128, as a rigid core, can effectively transfer the compressive force from the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to the reinforcing element 130 and / or the tiling element 110.

[0054] Figure 2A and 2B A side pad according to another embodiment is shown, wherein Figure 2A A spatial diagram of the side pads is shown and Figure 2B A cross-sectional view showing the extension through the axis of rotation R.

[0055] In other respects, the fixing element 120 can be coupled with Figure 1A , 1B It is formed in the same way as already explained. The reinforcing element 130 shown herein has a two-piece construction, wherein the first component 131 can be as follows: Figure 1A , Figure 1B The construction has already been described. Additionally, the reinforcing element 130 may have a second component 132, which is formed in a disc or ring shape above the first component 131, wherein the fixing element 120 extends through the central opening of the disc-shaped second component 132 of the reinforcing element 130 (see...). Figure 2A According to an embodiment, the two components 131 and 132 of the reinforcing element 130 are formed of an inelastic material.

[0056] In the side pad 100 according to the illustrated embodiment, the tiling element 110 includes a fabric cover 114 that at least partially or completely engages the radial edge region 113 of the tiling element 110 having through holes 116. On one hand, the fabric cover 114 is arranged between the tiling element 110 and the ground and thus also covers the space 55 formed between the fabric cover 114 and the first part 131 of the reinforcing element 130 (see...). Figure 1B On the other hand, the fabric cover 114 also extends above the tile element 110 and can also cover the through hole 116 there.

[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, the fabric cover 114 extends into the region between the first part 131 and the second part 132 of the reinforcing element 130 and can be secured there (e.g., by a clamping connection). The disc-shaped or annular second part 132 can, for example, be formed as a clamping disc and include protrusions 134 along its radial outer diameter in the direction toward the first part 131 for clamping the fabric cover 114. The second part 132 can, for example, be looped onto the laying element 110 as a ring and pressed in place after the fabric cover 114 has been applied. This also provides the advantage that the fabric cover 114 can be pressed in and thus ensures a secure fixation.

[0058] The fabric cover 114 is, for example, formed to allow water to pass through, so that water from the robot vacuum 200 passes through the through-hole 116 to reach the ground 50 and is used for cleaning.

[0059] In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing element 130 includes reinforcing ribs 133 that extend radially over the second part 132 of the reinforcing element 130 and are intended to impart greater stability to the reinforcing element 130.

[0060] The first component 131 of the reinforcing element 130 and the tile element 110 can be with Figure 1A , 1B It is formed in the same way as already explained. Therefore, there is no need to repeat the explanation.

[0061] Figure 3A , 3B A side pad 100 according to another embodiment is shown, wherein Figure 3A A spatial view of the side pad 100 is shown and Figure 3B A cross-sectional view is shown passing through the axis of rotation R.

[0062] According to the illustrated embodiment, the side pad 100 again includes a tiling element 110, a fixing element 120 for rotatable fixation about a rotation axis R, and a fabric cover 114, but this fabric cover is formed only on the bottom surface facing the floor 50 during cleaning. The fabric cover 114 does not engage with the tiling element 110 around it. In the illustrated embodiment, the fabric cover 114 has (through) openings 118 that connect to the through holes 116 of the tiling element 110 to allow water to be guided from the robot vacuum 200 onto the floor 50.

[0063] According to the embodiment shown herein, the through-hole 116 remains open and is not covered by the fabric cover 114. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the fabric cover 114 is annularly formed with an opening 118 at the through-hole 116, wherein the through-hole / opening 116, 118 is again formed in the radial edge region 113.

[0064] To facilitate water flow through the through-hole 116 or opening 118 and for metered delivery, a basin-shaped recess 117 is formed on the top surface (the side facing away from the ground) to collect water, which is then guided to the ground 50 via the through-hole 116 and opening 118. This provides the advantage of providing a larger volume of water in a single location within the robotic vacuum cleaner, which can then fill the basin 117 and thus achieve uniform wetting of the floor. Similarly, the basin 117 can serve as an intermediate buffer to accommodate varying water demands.

[0065] The fabric cover 114 can be securely fastened to the tiling element 110, for example, via adhesive or Velcro. According to an embodiment, the fabric cover 114 can be formed as a reinforced fabric overlay bonded to the tiling element 110. It can, for example, have approximately the same thickness as the tiling element 110.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the adhesive layer (or Velcro) between the fabric cover 114 and the lay-up element 110 can serve as a reinforcing element 130 or a portion thereof. The adhesive layer formed as the reinforcing element 130 may have (reinforced) adhesive foil and / or a rigid adhesive (e.g., a resin compound) to provide sufficient strength and to transfer compressive pressure to the ground 50.

[0067] Alternatively or additionally, other components of the reinforcing element 130 may be present. Thus, a disc-shaped reinforcing element 132 may be present on the top surface of the tile element 110, such as... Figure 2A , 2B As already explained in the text.

[0068] However, optionally, the fixing element 120 and the tile element 110 can be formed as a single piece. These two components, for example, can be formed from a single piece of elastic material. Reinforcement is then ensured solely by an adhesive layer or adhesive foil.

[0069] Figure 3B The side pad 100 is shown in use in the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The hollow cylindrical carrier element 126 extends into the bracket 205 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200.

[0070] According to the illustrated embodiment, the fixing element 120 has a rotating fixing member 124 and a plug connection 122. The rotating fixing member 124 is used to transmit rotational motion to the side pad 100 provided by the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The rotating fixing member 124 may be formed, exemplarily, from a non-elastic material or from such an elastic material. When formed from an elastic material, the dimensions of the rotating element 124 are selected to enable it to reliably transmit rotational motion.

[0071] As shown, the rotating fastener 124 can be formed as an axially extending radial protrusion and can engage with a corresponding slot or elongated recess in the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The rotating fastener 124 thus forms a form-fitting lock with the drive element of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to transmit the rotational motion or rotational force of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to the side pad 100.

[0072] The plug-in connector 122 is exemplarily snapped into the recess of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 so as to ensure reliable fixation to the robot vacuum cleaner 200 after the side pad 100 is inserted into the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0073] The fixing element 120 may again have a synchronizing member 128, at least partially axially extending, formed of a non-elastic material, which is at least partially embedded in the elastic material of the fixing element 120 or may extend along the inner wall of the opening 127. The synchronizing member 128 can serve as a rigid core to effectively transmit compressive force from the robotic vacuum cleaner 200.

[0074] All other features can be formed in the same manner as in the previously described embodiments. Therefore, there is no need to repeat the description.

[0075] Figure 4A and Figure 4B A side pad according to another embodiment is shown, wherein Figure 4A Showing a spatial view of the side pads from below and Figure 4B Showing a spatial view from above.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiment, the fabric cover 114 is again formed solely between the tiling element 110 and the ground 50 and can be exemplarily secured to the tiling element 110 again via an adhesive layer. The through-hole 116, opening 118, and basin 117 can be formed as previously described. No further explanation is needed.

[0077] The reinforcing element 130 can be as follows Figure 2A , 2B It is formed in a disc, dish, or cone shape, and is closer to the ground 50 in the radial edge region 113 than in the radial inner region 112. High stability can be achieved, for example, by a disc shape that tapers to a tapered shape and has reinforcing ribs 133. According to the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing element 130 can again be formed as a chuck 132, which has reinforcing ribs 133 at its top surface (see...). Figure 4B Another chuck can be formed on the bottom surface, which also has reinforcing ribs 133 (see...). Figure 4A The paving element 110, formed of an elastic material, can be clamped, for example, by the two chucks 132, wherein compressive pressure is generated on the paving element 110 from above through the chucks 132.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the fixing element 120 again includes (partially) a hollow cylindrical carrier element 126 formed of an elastic material to allow for bending in the radial direction within a certain range. This again ensures a flexible fit of the side pad 100 to the ground 50.

[0079] Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the fixing element 120 includes a stamp-shaped extension 123, which can be formed as a radially reinforced section and directly connected to the disc-shaped component 132 or directly connected to the tiling element 110.

[0080] Alternatively or additionally, the rotating fastener 124 can again be formed as a radial protrusion that directly transmits torque to the stamp-shaped extension 123, which thus acts directly on the disc-shaped component 132 or directly on the tiling element 110. Therefore, torque does not act on, or only partially acts on, the hollow cylindrical carrier element 126. This prevents torsion of the tiling element 110 relative to the fastener 120.

[0081] Simultaneously, the axial compressive force can be reliably transmitted, for which a synchronizing element 128 can again be present, for example, in the hollow cylindrical carrier element 126. However, using a flexible material for the fixing element 120 also allows for elastic damping in the radial direction.

[0082] The existing engaging element 122 is again used to engage the side pad 100 into the robot vacuum 200. This can be achieved again by a bite lock or by a spring snap, so that the side pad 100 is secured after insertion and can only be removed from the robot vacuum 200 with increased pulling force.

[0083] All other features can be formed in the same manner as in the previously described embodiments. Therefore, there is no need to repeat the description.

[0084] Figure 5A , 5B A side pad 100 according to another embodiment is shown, wherein Figure 5A A spatial view of the side pad 100 is shown again. Figure 5B A cross-sectional view along the axis of rotation R through the side pad 100 is shown again. The side pad 100 again includes a basin-shaped recess 117 on its top surface at the location of the through-hole 116 to guide water from the sweeping robot 200 to the floor 50 through the tiling element 110. Figure 4A , 4B Similarly, the tile element 110 has a fabric cover 114 with (through) openings 118 that are fluidly connected to through-holes 116 of the tile element 110 to allow water to be directed from the robot vacuum 200 onto the floor 50. The fabric cover 114 can—as described above—be fastened to the tile element 110 again using an adhesive layer or Velcro.

[0085] In the illustrated embodiment, the fixing element 120 and the tiling element 110 are integrally formed. For example, they can be formed as a single piece of elastic material, with the reinforcing element 130 embedded therein. The reinforcing element 130 can be, for example, a hard core material in the casting material or overmolded with the elastic material in an overmolding process. Thus, the lower support leg region forms the tiling element 110, and the region extending along the rotation axis R forms the fixing element 120.

[0086] The reinforcing element 130 is again formed in a dish shape, such that it is closer to the ground 50 in the radial edge region 113 compared to its position in the radial inner region 112. Additionally, the reinforcing element 130 includes axial protrusions 136 (extending in the axial direction) in the radial end region 113, which protrude from the upper side of the tiling element 110 (see...). Figure 5AOn the one hand, this provides the advantage of simplified manufacturing, as the reinforcing element 130 can be fixed in this position in the overmolding mold, and then overmolded or cast on both sides by the elastic material. Additionally, the axial protrusion 136 provides further stabilizing effect on the reinforcing element 130 by preventing shearing movement between the elastic material and the reinforcing element 130.

[0087] All other features can be formed in the same manner as described in the previously shown embodiments. This particularly relates to the rotating fastener 124, the synchronizing element 128, and the plug-in connection 122, the basin 117, etc., which can be formed as previously described. Therefore, there is no need to repeat the description.

[0088] Figure 6 An exemplary illustration shows a portion of a robotic vacuum cleaner 200 having an inserted side pad 100. The robotic vacuum cleaner 200 includes a bracket 205 for the side pad 100, a lifting mechanism 210, a drive 220, a pretensioning mechanism, a roller unit 240, a pivoting mechanism 250 for the roller unit 240, and a water supply device. Figure 6 (Not visible in the text).

[0089] The side pad 100 is connected to the drive 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 via a form-fit connection. For this purpose, the drive 220 may, for example, have a bracket 205 with slots. When the side pad 100 is introduced into the bracket 205, the protruding rotating retainer 124 of the fixing element 120 is received by these slots, so that the two parts can no longer rotate relative to each other.

[0090] The driver 220 provides torque for rotating the side pad 100, for which force can be transmitted from the motor to the bracket 205, for example.

[0091] According to an embodiment, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can set its vertical height and squeezing pressure during cleaning. For this purpose, a lifting mechanism 210 is provided, which can cooperate with an optional pre-tensioning mechanism. The pre-tensioning mechanism can, for example, be formed in the form of a spring that pre-tensions the support 205 for the side pad 100 vertically downwards (towards the ground), while the lifting mechanism 210 can define the downward vertical movement. For this purpose, the lifting mechanism 210 can have a pull cord mechanism 215, which is driven by a driver to, for example, cause the support 205 to move vertically upwards against the pre-tension of the exemplary spring.

[0092] Alternatively or additionally, the lifting mechanism 210 may also be operated via a servo motor or similar actuator that provides linear motion and the desired compressive pressure to the support 205. In this embodiment, a preload mechanism is not required.

[0093] Therefore, the embodiment allows setting the vertical height of the at least one side pad 100 and setting the axial pressing force of the side pad 100 onto the ground 50. Thus, the side pad 100 can apply the desired pressing pressure onto the ground 50 during rotational motion to clean the ground 50.

[0094] In the illustrated embodiment, the roller unit 240 includes a cleaning roller (not visible in the figure) for cleaning the floor 50. The roller unit 240 can be pivotally supported about a rotation axis via a pivot arm 250. This pivoting movement can be performed with or without the support 205 for the side pad 100. This should allow for flexible adaptation to the unevenness of the floor 50.

[0095] The side pad 100 may, for example, exist only on one side of the roller unit 240. However, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 may also have a corresponding bracket 205 for the side pad 100 on each side, with respect to the axis of rotation of the cleaning roller. Figure 6 The example shown only shows one side pad 100. According to an embodiment, the side pad 100 may be brushless, that is, not formed as a side brush. For example, the side pad may be planarly partially or completely flat on the ground 50 and not just in point contact with the ground 50 (e.g., in the case of a side brush). According to an embodiment, the side pad 100 can be formed as a circle or as a disk. The outer region can in particular be formed as an annular disk with a circular outer edge. Thus, it can have a regular structure and is not formed as a triangle or other irregular shape.

[0096] The advantages of the embodiments can be summarized as follows.

[0097] The side pad 100 according to an embodiment includes or is composed of internal synchronizing elements 128, 130, which are made of a rigid (inelastic) material and extend outwardly in a slightly tapered manner. The edge region 113 of the synchronizing elements 128, 130 includes a soft 2K component (2K = material formed from two components) comprising approximately one-third of the diameter. The tapered shape of the soft component (elastic material) is steeper than that of the synchronizing elements 128, 130. The fabric of the side pad 100 may be coiled around the soft component 113 and the synchronizing element 130 and stitched in a sandwich configuration. The soft component 113 and the synchronizing element 130 may have through holes 116, 118 for water supply and seam formation. The axial force is transmitted outwardly to the soft tapered shape 113 via the rigid synchronizing elements 128, 130, aligning it planarly relative to the cleaning surface 50.

[0098] According to embodiments, the side pads include reinforcements 130, which are implemented in three ways: - The additional ring 132 at the top can be detached or overmolded, and the additional ring 132 is harder than the soft part (the elastic material); - An additional ring 131 is molded over the middle, and the additional ring 11 is harder than the soft part; - As a reinforcing layer or Velcro between rubber parts and textiles.

[0099] According to an embodiment, a hollow portion (through hole 116, basin 117, opening 118) can be formed in the side pad 100 for distributing water.

[0100] Synchronizers 128 and 130 may have or be composed of very rigid flexible components. These very rigid flexible components may be rigid enough to transmit shaft movement, yet still provide sufficient flexibility to allow deformation in the edge regions through their tapered shape. To support force transmission, the compression disc 132 may be fixed to the flexible component.

[0101] The embodiments overcome the disadvantages of conventional side pads, in particular, through the following features: - Side pad 100 elastic edge 113 - Side pad 100 tapered edge 113 - Planar extrusion via a cone - Diameter ratio: The ratio of the deformable conical edge disk 113 to the non-deformable disk 112 is <2 or about 1.5.

[0102] This combination of features enables constant edge cleaning and improved force delivery into the pad 100. The embodiment also achieves uniform adhesion of the fabric 114 within the edge region 113. The flat surface of the side pad 100 is confined to the narrower edge strip 113 by the rotation of the side pad 100 and the continuous forward movement of the robot. The features of the invention disclosed in the specification, claims and drawings may be important individually or in any combination for the implementation of the invention.

[0103] List of reference numerals 50 ground Space under the 55 side pad 100 side pads 110 tiled components 112 radial internal region 113 Radial Edge Region 114 Fabric Coverings 116 Through Hole (Penetrating Hole) 117 basins, basin-shaped depressions 118 opening 120 Fixing Components 122 plug-in connection 123 Radial Reinforced Section 124 Rotary Fixture 126 Hollow cylindrical carrier elements 127 Axially Extending Opening 128 Synchronization Components 130 Enhanced Components 131 The upper ring-shaped element serves as a reinforcing element 132 Embedded Ring (Enhanced) Component 133 Reinforcing Ribs 134 protrusions 136 axial protrusion 200 robot vacuum cleaners 205 side pad bracket 210 Upgrading Agency 215 rope pulling mechanism 220 drive 240-roll unit 250 pivot mechanism The axis of rotation of the R-tiled element

Claims

1. A side pad (100) of a robotic vacuum cleaner (200) for cleaning floors (50), said side pad (100) comprising: A tiling element (110) for cleaning the floor (50), wherein the tiling element (110) is partially formed of an elastic material; A fixing element (120) is rotatably fixed to the sweeping robot (200) about a rotation axis (R) of the tiling element (110), wherein the fixing element (120) is at least partially formed of an elastic material; as well as A reinforcing element (130) formed of a non-elastic material (135) is used to reinforce the tiling element (110), wherein the reinforcing element (130) extends only in the radially inner region (112) relative to the axis of rotation (R) in the radial direction, and the radially edge region (113) of the tiling element (110) is formed of the elastic material.

2. The side pad (100) according to claim 1, wherein the reinforcing element (130) is coupled to the fixing element (120) and extends in a disc, annular or disk-shaped manner from the axis of rotation (R) in a direction toward the radial edge region (113) to achieve a higher pressing pressure on the ground (50) in the radial edge region (113) compared to the radial inner region (112).

3. The side pad (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the reinforcing element (130) is formed as one or more of the following: - A tiling ring (132) is formed on the vertically above surface of the tiling element (110). - An annular surface region (132) is formed as the tile element (110). - Formed as a ring (131) embedded in the tile element (110). - Formed as an adhesive layer for securing the fabric covering (114) to the lay-up element (110), -Formed as Velcro fasteners for securing the fabric covering (114) to the lay-up element (110), - Formed into a covered molded element - Formed into injection molded components, - Formed as a combination of at least two of the above shapes.

4. The side pad (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the tiling element (110) has a through hole (116) for water so as to guide water from the sweeping robot (200) to the floor (50) through the tiling element (110).

5. The side pad (100) according to claim 4, wherein the through hole (116) has an inner through hole (116a) in the inner region (112) and an outer through hole (116b) in the edge region (113), and wherein the inner through hole (116a) passes vertically through the reinforcing element (130) and extends elongatedly in the radial direction.

6. The side pad (100) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the tiling element (110) has a basin (117) associated with a through hole (116) to collect water from the sweeping robot (200) before being guided through the associated through hole (116).

7. The side pad (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the outer diameter of the radial inner region (112) is in the range of 25% to 90%, or in the range of 25% to 75%, or in the range of 35% to 55%, or in the range of 40% to 50%, compared with the outer diameter of the tiling element (110).

8. The side pad (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the flattening element (110) further comprises: Fabric covering (114) on at least one surface of the tiling element (110) facing the ground.

9. The side pad (100) according to claim 8, wherein the fabric cover (114) at least partially engages the radial edge region (113) around the periphery.

10. The side pad (100) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the fabric cover (114) is permeable and the fabric cover (114) covers or exposes the through hole (116).

11. The side pad (100) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the fabric cover (114) is formed annularly with an opening (118) in the through hole (116) in the radial outer region (113) and is fastened in the radial outer region (113) by adhesive connection.

12. The side pad (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the reinforcing element (130) has radially extending reinforcing ribs (133).

13. The side pad (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the fixing element (120) is formed in a rod shape and has at least one of the following: - Plug-in connection (122), the plug-in connection being used to fix the side pad (100) to the sweeping robot (200), - Rotary fixing member (124) for transmitting torque from the robot vacuum cleaner (200) to the side pad (100). - Hollow columnar carrier element (126). - A synchronizing element (128) formed of a non-elastic material that extends at least partially axially, the synchronizing element being at least partially embedded in the elastic material of the fixing element (120).

14. The side pad (100) according to claim 13, wherein the fixing element (120) has a stamp-shaped extension (123), wherein the stamp-shaped extension (123) is coupled to the reinforcing element (130) and / or the tiling element (110) and the rotating fixing member (124) is coupled to the stamp-shaped extension (123) to transmit the torque from the robot vacuum (200) to the reinforcing element (130) and / or the tiling element (110).

15. The side pad (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the fixing element (120) and the tiling element (110) are integrally formed.

16. The side pad (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 15. The elastic material described herein has at least one of the following: rubber, elastomer, elastomer-type injection molded material, and / or The non-elastic material described herein has at least one of the following: a molding compound, a casting compound, a thermoplastic material, an adhesive, or a resin.

17. A sweeping robot (200) for cleaning floors (50), comprising: At least one side pad (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. The robotic vacuum cleaner (200) according to claim 17, further comprising at least one of the following: - Lifting mechanism (210), the lifting mechanism being used to set the vertical height of the at least one side pad; - A driver (220) for providing torque to the side pad (100); - A pre-tightening mechanism for applying compressive force from the side pad (100) to the ground (50); - Roller unit (240), wherein at least one side pad (100) is formed on one or both axial sides of the roller unit (240); - Pivoting mechanism (250) for the roller unit (240); - A water supply device for the side pad (100).

19. A method for manufacturing a side pad (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

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