Pool-related platform and external charging unit

Abstract

A pool-related platform is disclosed comprising a controller, a drive unit, a rechargeable battery, one or more sensors, and a charging module comprising a first wireless charging element; characterized in that the controller is configured to control the drive unit to move the pool-related platform to maintain the first wireless charging element within a charging range of a second wireless charging element of a charging unit, the charging unit being movable and located at a temporary pool-related platform position, the temporary pool related platform is located on the outer side of the interior of the pool structural element; and wherein the first wireless charging element is configured to be wirelessly charged by the second wireless charging element while the first wireless charging element remains within the charging range of the second wireless charging element. An external charging unit is also disclosed. The non-contact electromagnetic connection device can provide power transmission for charging of underwater PCR batteries in swimming pools of any type.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent No. 63 / 260,059, filed on August 6, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The utility model relates to a system and method for providing electromagnetic connections (EMC) for charging a pool related platform (PRP), such as but not limited to a pool cleaning robot (PCR) operating in a swimming pool, and focuses on solutions for above ground pools (AGP). Background Art

[0004] As we all know, swimming pools are divided into two major categories: In-Ground Pools (IGP), which may require complex underground works and extensive engineering construction; and on the other hand, above-ground pools of varying sizes and complexity, which allow end users to install such pools in their yards through a DIY approach.

[0005] Although this description focuses on above ground pools, the description is applicable to any type of pool, whether above ground or in-ground.

[0006] Pool cleaning robots are fast becoming a common feature of all types of pools, both above ground and primarily in-ground. End users are most interested in providing pool cleaning robots for all types of pools for the benefit of pool owners.

[0007] It is also well known that pool cleaning robots are typically connected and powered by means of an electrical cable that receives its power from an external electrical power source located on the pool deck or at a distance from the pool edge.

[0008] Such cables may be viewed as a physical or aesthetic obstruction in any pool environment, but may be less of a problem in above ground pools where the cables of the submersible pool cleaning robots are placed or mounted on the rim of the above ground pool to be able to reach the external power pack.

[0009] The pool cleaning robot industry has been developing battery powered pool cleaning robot solutions, and the demand for such pool cleaning robots is growing due to the increasing need to reduce manual labor in pool cleaning operations and also for aesthetic reasons. There is also a growing demand for using cable-free pool robots that can be battery powered.

[0010] In response to this market demand, development activities are focused on solutions for how to charge the battery of the onboard pool cleaning robot.

[0011] One way to accomplish this is to employ an underwater contactless electromagnetic connection power connection, such as an inductive electrical charging system that includes two half-core coil winding assemblies, wherein at least one such half-core coil is fully submersible underwater.

[0012] For convenience, the primary first half-core coil winding assembly (or its subassembly or the first wireless charging element (Wireless Charging Element, WCE)) may be referred to as a transmitter or a transmitter unit (TX) hereinafter; the secondary half-core coil winding assembly (or its subassembly or the second wireless charging element) may be referred to as a receiver or a receiver unit (RX). In fact, this is a special type of plug-socket configuration.

[0013] Typically, such electrical induction power or charging systems need to be pre-designed to be embedded in the pool wall or pool surface. That is, the transmission unit is in contact with a certain amount of pool water so that the pool cleaning robot receiver unit (Pool Cleaning Robots receiver unit, PCR RX) or any receiver unit component related thereto can physically contact the transmission unit for any power transfer or battery charging.

[0014] A simple and elegant solution is to place the inductive transmission unit behind the pool wall or any pool surface, which would also comply with all, if not most, of the strict pool electrical safety regulations.

[0015] It is easier and more cost effective to isolate the inductive transmission unit from any wet or humid environments for the benefit of pool users.

[0016] The pool cleaning robot comprises an onboard receiver unit close to the transmission unit. Once a viable connection is established, a battery charging step can be initiated. Such a step can be fully automatic after multiple pool cleaning robot cleaning cycles, or manually initiated by, for example, a remote control device.

[0017] It is apparent that a direct inductive charging system is superior to an indirect inductive charging system because the barrier of the thin layer or pool wall surface itself and the increased distance between the first transmitting winding and the second receiving winding can provide lower power, which may be necessary to power larger underwater electrical equipment. Utility Model Content

[0018] The present application may provide a device, system, and method for providing a contactless electromagnetic connection device that can provide power transmission for charging batteries of underwater pool cleaning robots in any type of swimming pool.

[0019] A pool-related platform is provided, comprising:

[0020] a controller, a drive unit, a rechargeable battery, one or more sensors, and a charging module, the charging module including a first wireless charging element;

[0021] Characterized in that the controller is configured to control the driving unit to move the pool-related platform to keep the first wireless charging element within the charging range of the second wireless charging element of the charging unit, the charging unit is movable and located at a temporary pool-related platform position, the temporary pool-related platform position is outside the interior of the pool structure element; and

[0022] The first wireless charging component is configured to be wirelessly charged by the second wireless charging component when the first wireless charging component remains within the charging range of the second wireless charging component.

[0023] An external charging unit is also provided, comprising an external charging unit mechanical interface, an external charging unit charging module including an external charging unit wireless charging element (ECU WCE), an external charging unit housing and an external charging unit wireless charging element movement mechanism, wherein the external charging unit wireless charging element movement mechanism is configured to move the external charging unit wireless charging element relative to the battery-related platform. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The subject matter of the invention is particularly pointed out and clearly claimed in the concluding portion of the specification. However, the organization and method of operation of the invention, as well as its objects, features, and advantages, may be best understood by reference to the following detailed description read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0025] Figure 1 A pool cleaning robot in a pool according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown with an exemplary external transmission unit mounting embodiment;

[0026] Figure 2 Shows side and front views of a pool cleaning robot with a receiver unit according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 3 A removable transmission unit according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0028] Figure 4 A side cross-sectional view of a pool cleaning robot according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0029] Figure 5 A view showing an external pool bottom mounted transmission unit according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 6 depicts a pool cleaning receiver unit being charged at an external pool transfer unit;

[0031] Figure 7 depicts an externally adjustable and removable bag-mounted removable transfer unit;

[0032] Figure 8 depicts a removable and adjustable cassette mounted transmission unit;

[0033] Fig. 9 Depicting a removable and adjustable cassette mounted transmission unit for charging a pool cleaning robot;

[0034] Fig.10 is an example of a method; and

[0035] Fig.11 are examples of pool-related platforms and other elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] In the following detailed description, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the present invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other examples, known methods, steps and components are not described in detail to avoid obscuring the present invention.

[0037] The subject matter of the present invention is particularly pointed out and clearly claimed in the utility model content section of the specification. However, the organization and operation method of the present invention, as well as its objects, features and advantages can be best understood by referring to the following detailed description and reading the description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0038] It should be understood that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, the elements shown in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, for clarity, the size of some elements may be enlarged relative to other elements. Further, where deemed appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated between the drawings to indicate corresponding or similar elements.

[0039] Any reference in the specification to an apparatus or system should be made to methods that can be performed by the apparatus or system.

[0040] Since the illustrated or described embodiments of the present invention can basically be implemented using electronic components and circuits known to those skilled in the art, in order to understand and appreciate the basic concepts of the present invention and in order not to confuse or distract from the teachings of the present invention, no details will be explained beyond the degree deemed necessary as described above.

[0041] Any reference to a method in the specification shall be referred to as applicable to a system capable of performing the method and shall be referred to as applicable to a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions which, once executed by a computer, result in the performance of the method.

[0042] Any reference to a system in the specification shall be referred to as applicable to a method executable by the system and shall be referred to as applicable to a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, once executed by a computer, result in the performance of the method.

[0043] A cordless, battery-powered pool cleaning robot is provided that charges its battery when attached or pressed against a pool wall to connect to an external transmission unit.

[0044] A wireless, battery-powered pool cleaning robot is provided that charges its battery while positioned on a swimming pool floor to connect to an external transmission unit.

[0045] The present description relates particularly to a pool cleaning robot that operates within a submerged portion of a pool and that may utilize an off-pool battery charger that is positioned externally to the submerged side of a pool wall or floor that forms the pool structure.

[0046] Externally it may also include positioning and affixing the transfer unit between layers or plies of the pool wall or pool bottom structure.

[0047] In an IG pool, the transfer unit may be positioned and affixed between the pool structure (concrete, steel, fiberglass) and the liner, which is added to provide the final pool cover, typically made of a PVC sheet.

[0048] Attaching the transfer unit to the rear of the tile may also provide a suitable solution.

[0049] By using inductive power transfer of the pool cleaning robot from outside the pool immersion section to inside the pool, a simple, convenient and safe environment is provided for charging the pool cleaning robot batteries without having to remove the pool cleaning robot or its batteries for external charging after each cleaning cycle.

[0050] Figure 1An electrical power charger (1) is depicted which is connectable to a mains power inlet (2). A cable routing tube (3) extends a distance to connect to a removable transmission unit (4) which is attached to the outside side of the pool wall. In this example, an above-ground pool structure is depicted. A pool cleaning robot (6) submerged inside the pool is depicted as being connected via the pool wall structure (10) by means of a pool cleaning robot receiver unit (5) - located at its front end - in order to charge the pool cleaning robot battery.

[0051] The transmission unit can be bound to the pool wall by attaching it and positioning it between layers of a layered polyvinyl chloride (PVC) foil or liner or tile (9). The transmission unit can alternatively or additionally be positioned or integrated into the layers or any layered structure or tile of the pool bottom (8).

[0052] An important aspect of the present invention is that the incorporation and integration of the transfer unit mechanism into a prefabricated pool wall section (9) and / or a prefabricated pool floor can be optimally achieved by the OEM pool manufacturer or builder.

[0053] Typically, such OEM prefabrication will have the transfer unit pre-sewn to the pool wall or bottom surface.

[0054] Figure 1 and Figure 5 The incorporation and integration of the transmission unit (8) and / or the transmission unit (9) by an OEM or on-site pool builder or assembler may alternatively be externally attached to the exterior side of the wall (10) or below the pool floor by any means to secure its position and attachment. Such positioning, attachment and electrical connection of the transmission unit may be performed by an end user who purchases the transmission unit assembly as part of their pool, purchases the transmission unit as part of their pool cleaning robot model, or in the form of a separate add-on kit in an after-sales service, provided that the end user already owns or will own a suitable battery operated pool cleaning robot.

[0055] Typically, such attachment may employ, for example, double-sided Velcro DIY strips or other solutions described further below.

[0056] Figure 1 and Figure 5 The transfer unit (8) and / or the transfer unit (9) are removable so as to be relocated at any other location in the pool area.

[0057] Figure 2 A pool cleaning robot is depicted in close up with a pool cleaning robot receiver unit (5) at the front of the pool cleaning robot housing (11). Figure 2Also depicted is an alternative positioning of the receiver unit on the side of the housing (5A) for connection to the side charging motor of a wall unit. Figure 4 The receiver unit positioning for pool bottom charging is depicted (5B).A pool cleaning robot impact bumper (not shown) may be provided for smooth and gentle contact between the pool cleaning robot and the pool wall surface.

[0058] Figure 2 The pool cleaning robot includes an openable or removable top cover (12) to access or remove a filtration system located within a hollow housing of the pool cleaning robot. Figure 2 Also shown is a water jet outlet (15), which may be an exemplary jet outlet for additional navigation jet outlets not shown here. Figure 2 Wheels 16, 16A are also depicted for rolling and propagating the pool cleaning robot around the pool. Similar wheels 16C and 16D on the other side of the pool cleaning robot are not shown. Tracks (17) are shown together with at least one rotating cleaning brush (18). A ring (14) is also provided for retrieving the pool cleaning robot. A pool pole (conventional or telescopic) with a suitable hook attachment can be used for retrieval of the pool cleaning robot. Alternatively, in shallow water that the pool cleaning robot can approach manually, the user can grasp the handle (13) to retrieve the pool cleaning robot from the water.

[0059] The receiver unit assembly (5) includes an internal secondary inductive ferrite coil, wherein the front panel (5A) of the receiver unit has a substantially flat surface to engage a similarly configured transmission unit front panel located on the outside of the pool wall.

[0060] Wireless two-way data transmission is provided between the receiver unit and the transmission unit for sending data from the pool cleaning robot to the receiver unit and / or the transmission unit, to the power source and to the user, or users who may be able to receive and send wireless information through a computerized device.

[0061] It should be noted that the removable transmission unit in this specification is preferably placed at the lower end of the pool wall at different height distances from the pool bottom, such as 5-10 cm, 15-20 cm, 25 cm, 30 cm, etc.

[0062] Built-in or OEM factory fitted or integrated transfer units may also be positioned at a similar height from the pool floor, with or without the possibility of end-user positioning adjustment.

[0063] The pool bottom transfer unit (8) embodiment is maintained substantially horizontally and parallel to the pool bottom surface on the outer pool bottom side or between layers or plies of the pool bottom.

[0064] Figure 2The receiver unit (5) depicted in the figure may protrude slightly from the outline of the pool cleaning robot housing (11) to allow for form contact with the transmission unit. The receiver unit (5) further includes an adjustable receiver unit height positioning mechanism (19) to allow for linear movement of the receiver unit assembly (5) by upward or downward extraction to align it with the external transmission unit. That is, the end user may reset the receiver unit position vertically (upward, downward) and / or at an inclined angle to obtain an optimal matching fit of the inductive panel surface to the panel surface of the receiver unit and the transmission unit.

[0065] The receiver unit height positioning mechanism (19) can be constructed of a rigid and strong construction but a flexible construction that provides a push-back feature for the receiver unit. This feature protects the surrounding pool surface from damage from the continuous contact with the wall that the pool cleaning robot may have during its cycle time. However, when the receiver unit approaches the transmission unit for charging connection, the flexibility - or push-back feature - will allow for a gentle, close pressing contact between the receiver unit and the pool wall where the transmission unit is located.

[0066] Therefore, the construction and configuration of the receiver unit (5, 5A) will include a substantially gentle - but smooth - front edge arrangement to avoid unnecessary friction with the pool surface.

[0067] Figure 3 A removable transmission unit assembly (4) is depicted, comprising a primary inductive ferrite coil, the front panel (4A) of the transmission unit having a substantially flat surface panel (4A) for engaging a similarly configured receiver unit (5A) containing a secondary inductive ferrite coil and attached to a pool cleaning robot submerged in the pool.

[0068] Figure 3 The transfer unit in the figure depicts an exemplary suction cup (4B) attachment method for attaching the transfer unit to the outer side of the pool wall. Any other method that allows the transfer unit to be removably attached to the pool wall without damaging the pool structure can be used. The embodiments of the removable features will be further discussed below.

[0069] For any transmission unit location or position in this specification, both the receiver unit and the transmission unit use electronic sensing devices, such as ultrasonic beams or magnetic resonance, to perform mutual positioning or position confirmation, which provide return signals from the transmission unit to the receiver unit and to the main control PCB located in the pool cleaning robot. More than one sensor can be used so that the matching of the electrical induction panels of the transmission unit and the receiver unit is fully aligned. Compass / gyrocompass, magnetometer, pool mapping technology and simultaneous localization and mapping (Simultaneous Localizationand Mapping, SLAM) navigation programs can be used to determine the track of the pool cleaning robot in the pool. A method for correcting the alignment of the receiver unit and the transmission unit is provided in this specification.

[0070] The pool cleaning robot and receiver unit may reduce speed and gently approach the transmission unit for charging or data transfer, thereby reducing any unnecessary impacts with the transmission unit or pool walls. Allow the pool cleaning robot and receiver unit to approach the transmission unit while gently squeezing the receiver unit panel perimeter to align it with the transmission unit panel perimeter. Allow for repositioning and realignment, and the pool cleaning robot may move back to correct its trajectory and reconnect again.

[0071] In another embodiment, the end user may program and transmit the transmission unit location to the receiver unit and pool cleaning robot control logic via wireless communications, such as a smartphone, tablet, etc. This may be very convenient in the event that the end user chooses to remove or reposition their removable transmission unit in the pool and wishes to update the transmission unit location.

[0072] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment of the present invention, the communication function includes wireless electronic information transmission to the power charger (1), such as wireless electronic information transmission from a handheld (or desktop) remote control unit (RCU) to the power charger (1). The transmission may include directional movement commands, or cleaning parameters that may be sent by the user, which in turn relays the data captured via the cable (3) to the transmission unit (4), which transmits continuous or intermittent data signals to the pool cleaning robot and the onboard receiver unit assembly by means of inductive data transmission - together with induced electrical power - while the pool cleaning robot travels in the pool.

[0073] Data transmission can be a two-way process: commands can be sent wirelessly (or wired) from the end user to the pool cleaning robot, such as: electronic control logic software update, modification of cycle times or cycle modes (cleaning only the pool bottom, climbing the pool walls, cleaning water lines, etc.), weekly or periodic automatic start-end timer settings.

[0074] The pool cleaning robot can transmit status data back to the end user. For example: filter cleaning status, battery status, charging status (such as "charging started" or "charging complete"), pool cleaning robot error reporting (interruptions), cycle data and cycle time data, water conditions (temperature, water chemistry), recommended maintenance to be removed from the pool, etc.

[0075] Standard mobile cellular technology, or Any such two-way information transmission or reception is performed with the Internet or cloud-based platform, and data transfer is intended to be completed primarily during the battery charging process, or generally when the receiver unit is connected to the transmission unit.

[0076] To begin battery charging, the pool cleaning robot can measure its decreasing battery capacity and automatically travel to recharge. This allows multiple charging without human intervention. During the charging process, at least one LED light in the transmission unit will be activated.

[0077] In the present specification, any alternative of the removable transmission unit is also provided with LED indicators for charging or after charging status (e.g., red LED and green LED). Such indication will provide the end user with information about the effective charging contact of both the transmission unit and the receiver unit without having to adjust the position of the transmission unit.

[0078] Likewise, the pool wall / bottom surface integrated transmission unit (8) or (9) is also wired and electrically supplied (3) via the connected power charger (1) and / or an alternative off-pool solar powered subsystem (not shown).

[0079] Figure 4 Depicted are the internally mounted components located within the hollow pool cleaning robot housing space (11), such as a water inlet (17), at least one water outlet (18), at least one pump motor and impeller (19), at least one drive motor (20), a filter unit (not shown) located in the hydraulic path between the water inlet and the water outlet, a rechargeable battery (21), a receiver unit (5B) located at the bottom for bottom pool charging, and electrical and data wiring conduits connecting the receiver unit to the battery, motor and electronic control device (not shown).

[0080] Figure 5 A perspective view of an exemplary concealed transmission unit (8) positioned beneath the pool floor, which may be attached externally to the outer layer of the pool floor or between fabric layers or plies. Figure 1The wall-mounted transmission unit (9) can have a similar configuration. The geometric shapes of the two transmission units can be circular or any other shape, such as square or rectangular.

[0081] Importantly, the transfer unit (8 and / or 9) can be removed by the user and reattached by any suitable means. For example, the transfer unit (9) may include a scotch tape type strip to position or reposition the transfer unit as required. This can also be easily achieved by a simple end-user DIY approach.

[0082] Figure 6 The pool cleaning robot receiver unit is depicted in charging contact with the transmission unit. This positioning is also beneficial for rear charging (not shown). For side charging (5A), the transmission unit can be positioned slightly lower by the end user.

[0083] Figure 7 An embodiment of a removable transfer unit (4 or 9) holding bag (23) is depicted which may be permanently attached to an external pool wall (by a pool OEM) or may be removed by a similar manner as described herein (by a user) for positioning, repositioning, adjusting or relocating as desired. The holding bag may be configured with a transfer unit securing or clamping device located inside the bag, a top closure sleeve to protect the transfer unit (4) from dust or water splashes, and a bottom opening for cable access (3) to an external power source (1 and 2).

[0084] Figure 8 A separate removable transmission unit housing (24) is depicted, containing a transmission unit (4) with electrical connections (3), which can be placed in contact with the side of the external pool wall. To ensure that the transmission unit is tightly connected to the receiver unit, the transmission unit can be telescopically adjusted in height / length and outward (toward the external pool wall). The transmission unit (24D) can also provide lateral and vertical distances and angles of extension / retraction (24D) from the transmission unit housing toward the pool wall (upward, downward, backward, forward and angled) to provide optimal transmission unit to receiver unit surface connection.

[0085] Four legs (24A) are depicted, but the configuration may alternatively include a tripod assembly with flexible octopus-type legs that can be bent and aligned into multiple positions.

[0086] The transfer unit housing (24) with handle (24C) is provided with threaded housing vertical height adjustable shaft legs or shaft feet (24A) to manually align and adjust (upward or downward) the location of the transfer unit to the location of the receiver unit. Wood, polymer or rustproof metal surface or conical ground leveling supports (24B) may also be provided, whereby supports may be removably attached to the bottom of each shaft / leg so that the leveling supports may be temporarily removed if the end user needs to position, fasten or secure the transfer unit housing (24) to a harder solid surface or a non-level softer surface (such as lawn) that may surround the base of the external pool wall contour. The transfer unit housing may also be supplied in the form of an aftermarket kit.

[0087] The adjustable leg supports (24A) may also include foot grips to enhance stability, while the rear legs may be flexible to allow expansion for further adjustable attachment to the exterior pool wall surface.

[0088] Fig. 9 Depicted is the transmission unit housing in contact with the pool wall and the pool cleaning robot receiver unit when charging the pool cleaning robot battery.

[0089] Fig.10 An example of a method 100 of charging a battery-related platform is shown.

[0090] A pool-related platform may be any platform that can perform fluid-related operations related to pool cleaning, changing chemistry, monitoring, etc. Examples of pool-related platforms include pool robots other than pool cleaning robots, pool cleaning robots, floating units, skimmers, etc. Any examples related to pool cleaning robots may be applied mutatis mutandis to any other pool-related platform.

[0091] The method 100 may begin at an initialization step 110 .

[0092] The initialization step 110 may be followed by a step 120 of positioning the first wireless charging element of the pool associated platform within the charging range of the second wireless charging element of a charging unit that is movable and disposed in a temporary pool associated platform position outside the interior of the pool structure element.

[0093] Step 120 may include moving the first wireless charging element toward a pool-associated platform position.

[0094] The charging range is the range within which wireless charging is possible. The charging range may be defined as the range within which efficient wireless charging is possible. Efficient may mean that at least a predetermined percentage (e.g., at least 50%) of the charging energy is not lost during propagation between the first wireless charging element and the second wireless charging element.

[0095] Since wireless charging is performed via cell structural elements, such as side walls, one or more layers or portions of side walls, cell bottom, one or more layers or portions of bottom, the charging range may be relatively small and may be, for example, less than 1, 2, 3 cm, etc.

[0096] Step 120 may include (a) moving the pool-associated platform toward the pool-associated platform position, and (b) moving the first wireless charging element relative to other portions of the pool-associated platform.

[0097] Step (b) may include pushing the first wireless charging element against an interior of the pool structure. Pushing or pressing may reduce a distance between the first wireless charging element and the second wireless charging element.

[0098] Step 120 may include moving the first wireless charging element based on the indication of the temporary pool-related platform position.

[0099] The indication may be wirelessly transmitted temporary pool-associated platform location information ("location information") that provides an explicit indication of the location of the pool-associated platform.

[0100] The position information may be sent to the pool-related platform during the initialization step 110 and / or during the step 120 .

[0101] The indication of the temporary pool-related platform location is wireless transmission radiation transmitted from the charging unit. For example, the charging unit may transmit a beacon signal from one or more beacons.

[0102] Step 120 may include aligning the first wireless charging element with the second wireless charging element. The alignment may be performed during step (b) or after step (b).

[0103] According to the above method, wherein the alignment is a sensor-based alignment, which includes using readings of one or more alignment sensors.

[0104] After step 120 , step 130 may be performed. Step 130 is to wirelessly charge the first wireless charging component by the second wireless charging component when the first wireless charging component is kept within a charging range of the second wireless charging component.

[0105] When a predetermined condition is met (eg, a certain charge level of the replaceable battery is reached), charging may be stopped and the battery-associated platform may be moved away from the charging unit.

[0106] The method 100 may further include a step 140 of performing wireless communication between the first wireless charging component and the second wireless charging component.

[0107] The method 100 may further include a step 150 of generating a status indication by the charging unit, for example, via wireless communication to a user device, via a light emitting diode, or the like.

[0108] During wireless charging, the charging unit is detachably coupled to the cell structure element. The detachable coupling may be performed during an initialization step 110 .

[0109] Steps 120 and 130 may be performed during wireless charging while the charging unit is detachably coupled to the cell structure element by the suction cap.

[0110] Steps 120 and 130 may be performed during wireless charging while the charging unit is removably coupled to the pool structure by the hook and loop fastener.

[0111] Steps 120 and 130 may be performed during wireless charging while the charging unit is positioned within a holder element connected to the cell structure element.

[0112] Steps 120 and 130 may be performed while the second wireless charging element is at least partially positioned within the separate holder element.

[0113] Steps 120 and 130 may be performed while the second wireless charging element is at least partially positioned within a separate holder element, the holder element including adjustable legs.

[0114] Steps 120 and 130 may be performed while the second wireless charging element is urged against the pool structure element.

[0115] Fig.11 is an example of a pool-related platform 210, which may include a controller 211, a drive unit 212, a rechargeable battery 213, one or more sensors 214 (e.g., a navigation sensor, an alignment sensor), and a charging module 215 including a first wireless charging element 216. An example of a pool-related platform is a pool cleaning robot, e.g. Figure 1-Figure 7 as well as Fig. 9 A pool cleaning robot is shown in any view.

[0116] The controller 211 is configured to control the driving unit 212 to move the pool-related platform to keep the first wireless charging element within the charging range of the second wireless charging element of the charging unit, the charging unit is movable and arranged at the temporary pool-related platform position outside the interior of the pool structure element. The first wireless charging element is configured to be wirelessly charged by the second wireless charging element when the first wireless charging element is kept within the charging range of the second wireless charging element.

[0117] The pool-related platform may include a first wireless charging element movement mechanism 217, which is configured to move the first wireless charging element relative to other parts of the pool-related platform. The first wireless charging element movement mechanism may include, for example, an adjustable receiver unit height positioning mechanism (at Figure 2 denoted as 19).

[0118] The first wireless charging element movement mechanism 217 may include any mechanical element (eg, a motor, gear, rod, mechanical transmission unit, etc.) for moving the first wireless charging element. The movement may include linear movement and / or rotational movement along any axis.

[0119] The first wireless charging element movement mechanism may be configured to urge the first wireless charging element against an interior of the pool structure element.

[0120] The first wireless charging element movement mechanism may be configured to propel the first wireless charging element based on an indication of a temporary pool-related platform position.

[0121] The first wireless charging element movement mechanism may be configured to align the first wireless charging element with the second wireless charging element.

[0122] The pool-associated platform may include one or more alignment sensors, wherein alignment of the first wireless charging element with the second wireless charging element is based on alignment of the sensors.

[0123] The controller may be configured to control the drive unit to move toward the temporary pool associated platform position based on the indication of the temporary pool associated platform position.

[0124] The battery-related platform may include a communication module in communication with the first wireless charging element, wherein the communication module is configured to communicate with the second wireless charging element via the first wireless charging element.

[0125] The first wireless charging element can be placed in any position - outside the pool-related platform, partially outside the pool-related platform, completely outside the pool-related platform. For example, the first wireless charging element faces the bottom of the pool-related platform housing. Facing can include an imaginary line extending from the bottom of the first wireless charging element intersecting the above-mentioned bottom. The first wireless charging element can be parallel to the side wall of the pool-related platform.

[0126] Fig.11 Various examples of movement of the first wireless charging element by the first wireless charging element movement mechanism, various examples of charging positions in which the first wireless charging element is aligned with the second wireless charging element, and the like are also shown.

[0127] Fig.11Also shown is an example of an external charging unit (ECU) 230, which may include an external charging unit mechanical interface 231, an external charging unit charging module 232 - which includes an external charging unit wireless charging element 233, an external charging unit housing 234, one or more external charging unit sensors (such as a proximity sensor and / or an alignment sensor) 235, an external charging unit wireless charging element movement mechanism 236 - which is configured to move the external charging unit wireless charging element relative to other parts of the pool-related platform, a controller 357 and an external charging unit communication unit 238.

[0128] The external charging unit wireless charging element movement mechanism may be configured to urge the external charging unit wireless charging element against the pool structure element.

[0129] Any combination of any steps of any method described in the specification may be provided. Any combination of any features of any claim may be provided. A pool cleaning robot constructed and arranged to perform any combination of any steps of any method described in the specification may be provided. A non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions for performing any combination of any steps of any method described in the specification may be provided.

[0130] "Configured to" and "constructed and arranged to" are used interchangeably.

[0131] The terms "comprising," "including," "having," "consisting," and "consisting essentially of" are used interchangeably.

[0132] The phrase "may be" also covers "may not be".

[0133] In the foregoing specification, the invention has been described with reference to specific examples of embodiments of the invention. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

[0134] Furthermore, if any, the terms "front", "back", "rear", "top", "bottom", "above", "below", etc. in the specification and claims are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing permanent relative positions. It should be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments of the invention described herein are, for example, capable of operation in other orientations than those illustrated or otherwise described herein.

[0135] The connection described herein may be, for example, via an intermediate device, suitable for transmitting a signal from a corresponding node, unit or device or for transmitting a signal to any type of connection of a corresponding node, unit or device. Therefore, unless otherwise implied or indicated, the connection may be, for example, a direct connection or an indirect connection. These connections may be illustrated or described with respect to a single connection, multiple connections, a unidirectional connection or a bidirectional connection. However, different embodiments may change the implementation of the connection. For example, a separate unidirectional connection may be used instead of a bidirectional connection, and vice versa. In addition, multiple connections may be replaced by a single connection that transmits multiple signals in serial or in a time division multiplexing mode. Similarly, a single connection that carries multiple signals may be divided into various different connections that carry these signal subsets. Therefore, multiple options may be provided for transmitting signals.

[0136] Although specific conductivity types or polarities of potentials are described in the examples, it should be understood that the conductivity types and polarities of potentials may be reversed.

[0137] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the boundaries between the various components are merely illustrative, and alternative embodiments may merge the various components, or impose alternative functional decompositions on the various components. Thus, it should be understood that the architectures depicted herein are merely exemplary, and that many other architectures that achieve the same functionality may be implemented.

[0138] Any arrangement of components that perform the same function is effectively "associated" so that the desired function is performed. Thus, any two components combined herein to perform a particular function may be considered "associated" with each other so that the desired function is performed, regardless of architecture or intermediate components. Likewise, any two components so associated may also be considered "operably connected" or "operably coupled" to each other so as to perform the desired function.

[0139] In addition, those skilled in the art will recognize that the boundaries between the above operations are merely illustrative. Multiple operations may be combined into a single operation, a single operation may be distributed in additional operations, and operations may be performed at least partially overlapping in time. Moreover, alternative embodiments may include multiple instances of a particular operation, and the order of the operations may be changed in various other embodiments.

[0140] However, other modifications, variations and alternatives are possible.Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

[0141] In the claims, any reference numerals in brackets shall not be interpreted as limiting the claims. The word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those listed in the claims. In addition, the terms "a" or "an" as used herein are defined as one or more than one. Moreover, the use of introductory phrases such as "at least one" and "one or more" in the claims shall not be interpreted as implying that any particular claim containing the guided claim element is limited to a utility model containing only one such element by the indefinite article "a" or "an" to guide another claim element, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an". The same applies to the use of definite articles. Unless otherwise specified, terms such as "first" and "second" are used for any distinction between the elements described by these terms. Therefore, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate the time or other priorities of these elements. The fact that certain measures are cited in mutually different claims does not indicate that the combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously.

[0142] Although certain features of the utility model have been illustrated and described herein, those skilled in the art will now recognize many modifications, substitutions, changes and equivalents. Therefore, it should be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes that fall within the true spirit of the utility model.

Claims

1. A pool-related platform, characterized in that: include: a controller, a drive unit, a rechargeable battery, one or more sensors, and a charging module, the charging module including a first wireless charging element; Characterized in that the controller is configured to control the driving unit to move the pool-related platform to keep the first wireless charging element within the charging range of the second wireless charging element of the charging unit, the charging unit is movable and located at a temporary pool-related platform position, the temporary pool-related platform position is outside the interior of the pool structure element; and The first wireless charging component is configured to be wirelessly charged by the second wireless charging component when the first wireless charging component remains within the charging range of the second wireless charging component.

2. The pool-related platform according to claim 1, characterized in that: A first wireless charging element movement mechanism is included, the first wireless charging element movement mechanism being configured to move the first wireless charging element relative to the pool-associated platform.

3. The pool-related platform according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first wireless charging element movement mechanism is configured to push the first wireless charging element against an interior of the pool structure element.

4. The pool-related platform according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first wireless charging element movement mechanism is configured to move the first wireless charging element based on an indication of a position of the temporary pool-related platform.

5. The pool-related platform according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first wireless charging element movement mechanism is configured to align the first wireless charging element with the second wireless charging element.

6. The pool-related platform according to claim 5, characterized in that: One or more alignment sensors are included, wherein alignment of the first wireless charging element with the second wireless charging element is based on alignment of the sensors.

7. The pool-related platform according to claim 2, characterized in that: The controller is configured to control the drive unit to move toward the temporary pool associated platform position based on the indication of the temporary pool associated platform position.

8. The pool-related platform according to claim 7, characterized in that: The indication of the temporary pool-associated platform location is wirelessly transmitted temporary pool-associated platform location information providing an unambiguous indication of the pool-associated platform location.

9. The pool-related platform according to claim 7, characterized in that: The indication of the temporary pool-related platform location is wireless transmission radiation transmitted from the charging unit.

10. The pool-related platform according to claim 1, characterized in that: The pool-related platform includes a communication module in communication with the first wireless charging component, wherein the communication module is configured to communicate with the second wireless charging component via the first wireless charging component.

11. The pool-related platform according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first wireless charging element faces the bottom of the housing of the pool-related platform.

12. The pool-related platform according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first wireless charging element is parallel to a side wall of the pool-associated platform.

13. The pool-related platform according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first wireless charging element extends outside of the housing of the pool-associated platform.

14. An external charging unit, characterized in that: The invention comprises an external charging unit mechanical interface, an external charging unit charging module including an external charging unit wireless charging element, an external charging unit housing and an external charging unit wireless charging element movement mechanism, wherein the external charging unit wireless charging element movement mechanism is configured to move the external charging unit wireless charging element relative to the pool-related platform.

15. The external charging unit according to claim 14, characterized in that The external charging unit wireless charging element movement mechanism is configured to push the external charging unit wireless charging element against a pool structure element.

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