WORK EQUIPMENT AND METHOD FOR OPERATING WORK EQUIPMENT

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a working device, in particular a cleaning device for autonomously cleaning a processing environment, according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] US 2019 / 0043251 A1 discloses work devices configured as autonomous drones. These are designed to move between at least two different locations, and while moving between two locations, they can move into and out of different communication zones. The drones store the data for later transmission while in an area with limited or no signal coverage and only transmit it once the autonomous drones re-enter an area with sufficient radio signal coverage.

[0003] An autonomous work device is known from US 2019 / 0331501 A1. This work device is designed for use in processing environments that have at least one radio network that has sufficient signal strength for a data connection in all areas of the processing environment. The work device is designed such that, when it leaves the processing environment with sufficient signal strength for the data connection, it moves independently, based on a stored map or the route traveled, back into the processing environment with sufficient signal strength for the data connection.

[0004] EP 3 570 133 A1 discloses another work device that travels to at least two different locations based on a planned route. This work device has a quality controller that continuously compares the signal quality of the processing environment. Furthermore, the work device has a route controller that analyzes the fastest possible route. A movement controller of the work device generates a route based on the signals from the quality controller and the route controller, avoiding areas with poor communication quality, so that the work device always has a signal strength sufficient for data transmission while moving between two locations.

[0005] Work devices are known in the prior art in a variety of configurations. Such work devices are designed to move autonomously within a processing environment and perform work tasks. Examples of such work devices include cleaning devices that perform cleaning tasks in a processing environment, transport robots in warehouse logistics, or security robots used for surveillance purposes. A cleaning device is designed, for example, as a vacuum robot, a mop robot, or a vacuum and mop robot.

[0006] Such work devices usually have at least one control device which comprises a data processing device and which, with a plurality of sensors, ensures navigation of the work device in the processing environment and controls the completion of work tasks in the processing environment.

[0007] Work tools designed as cleaning devices and suitable for commercial applications are subject to stringent requirements for maximum autonomous operation and minimal user interaction. When used with such tools, they are designed to receive or send data via wireless radio connections, for example, to transmit status data to a user or to receive work instructions. This data transmission capability allows a user to remotely monitor the execution of work tasks by the tool and the tool's status, and intervene if necessary.

[0008] Furthermore, work tasks can be modified or adjusted schedules can be transmitted to the work device using transmitted data. Furthermore, necessary updates to the work device's software can be installed via the data connection.

[0009] State-of-the-art work equipment already provides a high degree of autonomy, but there is always a requirement to reduce the user's involvement in the operation of the work equipment to a minimum.

[0010] The invention is therefore based on the object of specifying a working device, in particular for commercial applications, which enables operation that is as autonomous as possible with little user interaction.

[0011] The aforementioned object is achieved in a generic work device by the features of claim 1, wherein the work device is further designed and configured to determine, using at least one threshold value with respect to the signal property, at least one location in the processing environment suitable for data transmission via the radio network. Furthermore, the work device is designed and configured to be used to perform work tasks in processing environments in which the radio network does not have sufficient signal strength for a data connection in all areas of the processing environment.

[0012] Alternatively or additionally, the signal position data is provided at the radio interface to determine at least one suitable location in the processing environment that is suitable for data transmission, and to receive data relating to at least one determined location at the radio interface. The determination of at least one location in the processing environment that is suitable for data transmission is carried out in particular by at least one data processing device, e.g., a server at least indirectly connected to the radio network or a user's mobile device, in particular a smartphone, a tablet, or a notebook, using at least one threshold value relating to the at least one signal property.

[0013] The location or locations suitable for data transmission are, for example, a specific position in the processing environment or an area in the processing environment in which at least one signal property of the radio network reaches a predetermined threshold, i.e., for example, a signal strength is above a predetermined threshold.

[0014] The work device is designed for autonomous movement within a processing environment and for performing work tasks. For example, the work device is designed as a cleaning device, a transport device in transport logistics, or a security robot for environmental monitoring.

[0015] The work device is preferably designed as a cleaning device for cleaning a processing environment. The work device designed as a cleaning device is advantageously a cleaning device with a suction and / or wiping function, in particular a vacuum robot, a wiping robot, or a vacuum and wiping robot. The work device advantageously has at least one housing with drive wheels arranged thereon to enable movement. The work device in particular has at least one control device that controls the autonomous movement and cleaning of a processing environment by the cleaning device. In particular, the work device has at least one environmental sensor system with a plurality of sensors, by means of which data relating in particular to the processing environment can be acquired in order to enable navigation in the processing environment.The control device preferably has at least one data processing device with at least one processor and at least one memory.

[0016] The radio interface of the work device for data transmission is designed to receive and send data via at least one radio network. The reception of data is required, for example, for navigation, in particular to receive updated navigation data, e.g. maps, or for operation, e.g. to receive work instructions or work plans. The sending of data is necessary, for example, to send status data on the work device or position data. Such radio networks usually do not have homogeneous network coverage in a processing environment, as structural conditions and environmental influences affect the radio network. Therefore, there may be places in a processing environment, particularly areas, where there is poor or no coverage by the radio network. Due to the inhomogeneous network coverage, the exchange of data with the work device can be disrupted or even impossible.

[0017] Knowledge of the network coverage of at least one radio network intended for data transmission in the processing environment is therefore advantageous for the operation of the work device. In order to obtain knowledge of the network coverage of at least one radio network or various radio networks in the processing environment, the work device is designed and configured to detect at least one signal property of at least one radio network suitable for data transmission at different locations in the processing environment and to generate signal position data by linking it to the respective position data.

[0018] When moving through the processing environment, for example, at least one signal property of at least one radio network or at least one signal property of a plurality of radio networks is recorded at predefined time intervals and linked to the location of the recording. Such signal position data can be displayed graphically, for example, in a map.

[0019] Preferably, the signal properties of a plurality of radio networks at different locations in the processing environment are recorded and linked with position data to form signal position data. From this, for example, a graphical representation of the respective network coverage in the processing environment can be derived for each radio network, or radio network-specific locations can be determined for each radio network that are advantageously suited for data transmission in the respective radio network. For example, different locations may be suitable for transmission via a WLAN network than for a cellular network.

[0020] A signal property detected includes, for example, a signal strength, in particular a power level, e.g., in dB, a signal attenuation, a frequency, a data transmission rate, and / or a transmission technology. In particular, it is also intended that a plurality of the aforementioned signal properties be detected.

[0021] For example, the wireless network could be a Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, Z-Wave, EnOcean, or a mobile network, e.g., 2G, 3G, 4G, or 5G. In principle, any transmission protocol or frequency suitable for data transmission is suitable for such a wireless network.

[0022] Preferably, the work device is designed and configured to perform a mapping run in the processing environment. The mapping run serves to record the processing environment, particularly when the work device is used in the processing environment for the first time. During a mapping run, no work tasks are performed; rather, the mapping run serves, in particular, to record data about the processing environment, which enables navigation within the processing environment for autonomous movement to complete work tasks. The data is recorded, for example, using an environmental sensor system.A mapping run is initiated, for example, by a user using an instruction transmitted via the radio interface, e.g., from a mobile device, or by inputting an input on the implement, e.g., using a specially designated button. In particular, the implement is configured before the mapping run is carried out in such a way that a connection to at least one radio network in the processing environment, e.g., mobile communications or Wi-Fi, can be established via the radio interface.

[0023] The work device is further designed and configured, in particular, to detect at least one signal property of at least one radio network, for example, a signal strength, e.g., a power level in dB, of the radio network during a mapping run at a plurality of locations and to combine it with the respective position in the processing environment to form signal position data. The signal position data is stored, for example, in a memory of the control device.

[0024] The work device is further designed and configured to determine at least one location in the processing environment that is suitable for data transmission via the radio network using at least one threshold value with regard to the signal property. The signal position data are therefore advantageously used to determine at least one location in the processing environment that is suitable for data transmission via at least one radio network using at least one predetermined criterion. For example, on the basis of a threshold value for the signal strength and / or the signal attenuation and / or a data transmission rate, the work device determines at least one or more locations in the processing environment that are suitable for data transmission because data transmission is advantageously possible there due to good network coverage. These locations orData on these locations are preferably stored in a memory for easy access during operation of the implement. In particular, it is also intended to provide the data on these locations at the radio interface, for example, for transmission via the radio network to a data processing device.

[0025] Alternatively or additionally, the signal position data for determining at least one location in the processing environment suitable for data transmission via the radio network is provided by a data processing device at the radio interface using at least one threshold value regarding the signal property. The data processing device is, for example, a server accessible via the radio network or a user's mobile device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. The radio network is connected to the internet in order to transmit data to a remote data processing device.On the basis of the signal position data, the data processing device determines at least one location in the processing environment suitable for data transmission and transmits it to the work device so that the work device receives or can receive data on at least one determined location at the radio interface.

[0026] Preferably, the working device is designed and configured to move, after completion of a mapping run, to a location in the processing environment suitable for data transmission in order to transmit the determined signal position data from there to at least one data processing device via the radio interface.

[0027] The signal position data determined by the work device is then used or made available to determine locations suitable for data transmission. Knowing the location or locations suitable for data transmission is important for the operation of the work device because increasing the reliability of data transmission to and from the work device can increase autonomy and reduce the necessary user interactions with the work device. For example, if data transmission to and from the work device is preferably only carried out at suitable locations, errors and interruptions in data transmission are avoided. A stable data connection is particularly important when transmitting large amounts of data or data required for the operation of the work device, e.g. a firmware update.Because the work device has data about locations where data transmission to at least one radio network is possible, the work device can also be used advantageously in processing environments that have at least one radio network that does not have sufficient signal strength for a data connection in all areas of the processing environment.

[0028] According to a first embodiment of the work device, knowledge of the locations where advantageous data transmission can take place can be advantageously utilized. The work device is further designed and configured to move to at least one location in the processing environment suitable for data transmission in order to carry out data transmission via the radio interface, for example, to a data processing device accessible via the radio network. This preferably involves a separate approach to the location that is not related to a movement to complete a work task in the processing environment.Particularly in processing environments where there is poor radio network coverage and in particular, for example, where the base station of the working device is located in an area not covered by the radio network, it is advantageous if the working device moves, for example at predetermined time intervals, for example once a month or once a week, to a location in the processing environment that is suitable for data transmission, for example to carry out firmware updates, receive map data or receive user instructions.

[0029] The data intended for transmission, i.e. reception and / or transmission, via the radio interface includes, for example, measurement, environmental or operating data of the work device. The data is transmitted via the radio network, for example, to a spatially remote data processing device, such as a server, for further processing or storage there. Furthermore, it is particularly intended that the work device receives data from a data processing device during data transmission via the radio interface, for example a firmware update, map data, information about other work devices in the processing environment, information about a base station for the work device, operational data for carrying out work tasks in the processing environment or other instructions from a user.Furthermore, it is intended that during data transmission, data is transmitted to a manufacturer of the work device or that the work device receives data from a manufacturer, for example, services or functional changes.

[0030] Alternatively or additionally, it is provided that the work device is designed and configured to move to a location in the processing environment suitable for data transmission during a movement to complete work tasks in the processing environment in order to carry out a data transmission, in particular a planned data transmission, i.e. to receive data or to send data.

[0031] According to the invention, the autonomy of the work device is increased in that the work device is further designed and configured to move to a location suitable for data transmission upon the occurrence of a predetermined event, for example, if a base station cannot be found, a defect, a malfunction, or a need for regeneration of a work tool, or similar, and / or to transmit - send or receive - data with a size that exceeds a predetermined threshold and / or in a time-controlled manner. This is particularly advantageous if a base station of the work device is located in a location where no or only limited data transmission via the radio network is possible.

[0032] If a malfunction or defect is detected in the work device, there is a risk with work devices known from the prior art that they will, for example, stop in an error mode in an area where no data transmission via a radio network is possible. The user must then take action and first search for the work device in the processing environment in order to rectify the error, which increases the workload for a user, particularly in large or complex processing environments. The advantage according to the invention is that the work device ensures data transmission, for example data on the type of error and its position, by going to a known location that is suitable for data transmission. The user therefore no longer has to search for the work device.

[0033] Advantageously, it is further provided that the work device is designed and configured to keep data intended for transmission at the radio interface, i.e., in particular, data intended to be transmitted via the radio network, available until, during a movement in the processing environment to complete work tasks, a location, in particular an area, suitable for data transmission is reached in the processing environment. Such that, for example, when a threshold value of a currently measured signal property is reached, data transmission is started at that location, in particular in that area. This ensures that the data transmission can take place at all.

[0034] According to a further embodiment of the work device, it has proven particularly advantageous if it is provided that the work device is further designed and configured to remain at a location suitable for data transmission, in particular without movement, until data transmission is completed. Alternatively or additionally, it is provided that upon reaching the location, in particular an area, for data transmission, the work device slows down movement at the location in order to ensure data transmission. It is further provided that the work device moves in a specific movement pattern, e.g., rotation, circle, or loop, at the location until data transmission is completed.The behavior described above ensures that a sufficiently reliable data connection is available for the complete transmission of the data, thereby reducing the risk of interruptions and errors in data transmission.

[0035] Alternatively or additionally, it is particularly provided that during data transmission, a movement takes place at the location, for example, to complete work tasks, while at the same time monitoring at least one signal property of the radio network. The movement preferably continues until at least one threshold value for at least one signal property is reached, for example, a predetermined signal strength is undershot. In this way, for example, the completion of work tasks and the transmission of data can be combined, while simultaneously preventing data transmission from being interrupted because the work device moves away from the location or area suitable for data transmission.

[0036] The coverage of a radio network can change over time. This occurs both when new radio transmitters are installed, for example, and when structural changes are made to the processing environment that affect radio reception. In order to be able to take such changes to the processing environment and / or the radio network into account, a further embodiment of the work device provides that the work device is further designed and configured to repeat the recording of at least one signal property at different locations and the linking to signal position data in order to update or supplement the signal position data. For example, it is provided that the recording of signal properties at different locations is carried out during each movement in the processing environment to complete work tasks.

[0037] In particular, in order to reduce the energy consumption of the work device and at the same time to have sufficiently up-to-date signal position data that takes changes into account, it is also provided, for example, that the repeated recording of at least one signal property at different locations in the processing environment is carried out at predetermined time intervals, for example weekly, monthly, or quarterly. Furthermore, it is also provided in particular that the recording of at least one signal property at different locations is carried out - i.e. event-driven - when, for example, the work device detects a change in the processing environment during a movement through the processing environment to complete work tasks, for example a change in the floor area of ​​the processing environment. The processing environment is advantageously always recorded by the environmental sensor system of the work device for navigation purposes.If this data is stored and compared, changes can be identified and used as a triggering event for updating the signal position data.

[0038] According to a further embodiment of the work device, the effort required by a user to search for a suitable location for the base station for a work device is reduced in that the work device is further designed and configured to display at least one determined location in the processing environment suitable for data transmission on a display device for a user as the location for a base station for the work device. Because the work device and / or a data processing device has determined at least one or a plurality of locations at which data transmission can advantageously take place via the radio network, suitable positions for a base station, for example a charging station for the work device, can also be determined on this basis.

[0039] For example, before the location is displayed as a location for a base station, at least one other criterion is checked, such as a distance to at least one other base station, an inclination of a surface in the processing environment, or at least one other location-specific criterion that makes the location unsuitable as a location for a base station despite good coverage by the radio network.

[0040] The location for the base station can, for example, be a specific location, in particular a specific area, in the processing environment that is suitable as a location for a base station based on the signal strength of the radio network. This location is displayed to a user in graphic form on a display device on the work device, or the location for a base station is provided at the radio interface for display on an external display device, for example, a user's mobile device, e.g., a smartphone, a tablet, or a notebook.

[0041] In particular, when performing updates to the operating software of the work device and / or when performing a firmware update, it may be necessary for the work device to be located in a base station, for example, to ensure a continuous power supply. If a data processing device, in particular at least one processor, of the work device must be used to perform the update, it may also be necessary for the work device to not be operated simultaneously, as the work device must be in a kind of "sleep mode" to perform the update.

[0042] In these cases, it is essential that the base station of the work tool is located in a location within the processing environment suitable for data transmission. If a base station has its own radio interface for data exchange, positioning the base station in a location suitable for data transmission is mandatory anyway.

[0043] The present embodiment has the advantage that a user does not have to work iteratively to find a suitable location for a base station where data can also be transmitted, for example to carry out firmware updates. Finding the location is made easier for the user because the device provides the user with at least one suggestion or a plurality of suggestions for a suitable location for a base station, in particular after an initial mapping run. The user can then position the base station specifically where sufficient radio network coverage is ensured for data transmission by the device, thereby eliminating the previously necessary process of finding a suitable position and reducing the effort required by the user.

[0044] If the base station is located in a location with sufficient radio network coverage for data transmission, a further advantage is that data can be transmitted to and from the work device when the work device is at rest, when it is usually positioned at the base station. Such a rest period is provided, for example, at times when people are in the processing environment, e.g. during traffic times in a sales area. Data can advantageously be transmitted, in particular to carry out an update, after necessary service activities, e.g. charging the energy storage device and / or cleaning a dirt collection container, have been completed and in particular the work plan does not provide for any work tasks that need to be processed immediately.This allows the work device to process the data transmitted via its radio interface without the need to relocate to the base station location.

[0045] It is particularly advantageous if the display of at least one location as a location for a base station or the provision of the location for display on an external display device occurs, i.e. event-controlled, when the working device detects that a current location of the base station for data transmission has at least one signal property that reaches, in particular exceeds or falls below a predetermined threshold value. If, for example, a data transmission rate is too low or signal attenuation is too great at the current location of the base station, an alternative location for the base station is suggested by the working device. The alternative location is a location that is suitable for data transmission via at least one radio network. The user then receives a notification to move the base station to a new location.This prevents data transfer problems before they actually become necessary, further reducing the risk of errors occurring during operation.

[0046] The working device is in particular further designed and configured to check whether a user has followed the recommendation for a new location for the base station or not. For example, a new display is made after a preset time has elapsed or after data transmission problems have been detected at the location of the base station. If the user does not change the location of the base station, it is provided in particular that the working device moves to at least one location in the processing environment at predetermined time intervals in order to check whether data should be received or to send data. This embodiment advantageously ensures that data transmission is guaranteed even if the user does not change the location of the base station contrary to the recommendation of the working device.

[0047] According to a further embodiment of the work device, it is provided that the work device has at least one activation means for manually activating a mapping run in the processing environment by a user. Particularly if the work device is not connected to a radio network during its first use in a processing environment, for example, to receive control instructions via the radio network, it is necessary for a mapping run to collect data on the processing environment to be able to be started manually by a user. This can be, for example, a special button on the work device or an input device, e.g., a touchscreen, on the work device.

[0048] After this initial mapping run, the working device then has sufficient data to move to a then known location suitable for data transmission when data transmission or reception is required or - as described above - to instruct the user to position a base station at a specific location.

[0049] The object mentioned above is further achieved by a method for operating a work device, in particular a work device according to one of the described exemplary embodiments. The work device has at least one radio interface for data transmission and is designed and configured to move autonomously in a processing environment. The method comprises at least the method step of processing signal position data, wherein the signal position data represents at least one signal property of at least one radio network suitable for data transmission at different locations in the processing environment. Furthermore, the work device is designed and configured to be used to carry out work tasks in processing environments in which the radio network does not have sufficient signal strength for a data connection in all areas of the processing environment.

[0050] The signal position data is processed, for example, to determine at least one location in the processing environment suitable for data transmission via the radio network using at least one threshold value regarding the signal property. Alternatively or additionally, processing the signal position data also includes providing the signal position data at the radio interface for transmission to a data processing device.

[0051] As explained above, knowing the locations suitable for data transmission serves to minimize the risk of problems during data transmission and thereby increase the autonomy of the work device.

[0052] The signal property detected by the working device is, for example, the signal strength, e.g., a power level in dB, a signal attenuation, a data transmission rate, or transmission technology. If, for example, the signal attenuation at a specific location falls below a predetermined threshold, this location is suitable for data transmission via the radio network. Furthermore, it is provided, for example, that a location is determined to be suitable if the data transmission rate exceeds a predetermined threshold. After determining at least one location suitable for data transmission, the location(s) determined are preferably stored in a memory. The memory is, for example, part of a control device of the working device.

[0053] Preferably, the method is carried out by a working device, in particular using a control device of the working device. The control device of the working device has at least one data processing device with at least one processor and at least one memory.

[0054] Alternatively or additionally, it is provided that at least one remotely arranged data processing device is provided, for example a server, a user's smartphone or a tablet, on which at least some of the method steps are carried out.

[0055] Preferably, the processing of signal position data includes detecting at least one signal property of at least one radio network at different locations in the processing environment and linking the signal property to the respective location to form signal position data. Advantageously, the detection of at least one signal property occurs at least during an initial mapping run of the work device and / or during a movement within the processing environment to complete work tasks.

[0056] It is particularly advantageous that the acquisition is repeated in a time-controlled and / or event-controlled manner in order to update and / or supplement the signal position data.

[0057] According to the invention, the method further includes the step of causing the work device to move to at least one location in the processing environment suitable for data transmission. The work device moves to the location suitable for data transmission in order to carry out data transmission via the radio network, for example, to receive a firmware update or send operating data. This configuration ensures that data transmission can be completed completely, preferably with large data volumes such as a firmware update.

[0058] According to the invention, the work device is caused to move to at least one location suitable for data transmission in order to carry out data transmission via the radio network when a predetermined event occurs, for example when a base station cannot be found, a defect, a malfunction or a need for regeneration of a work tool or the like, and / or to transmit - send or receive - data with a size that exceeds a predetermined threshold value, and / or in a time-controlled manner.

[0059] In particular, to enable advantageous data transmission, a further embodiment of the method provides for the working device to remain at a location suitable for data transmission until the data transmission is completed. For this purpose, the working device remains stationary, for example, in one location, in particular in one area, within the processing environment. This prevents the working device from moving away from the suitable location during data transmission, which would interrupt data transmission.

[0060] Alternatively, it is provided that the work device is moved at the location, particularly in the area, to complete work tasks during data transmission, as long as at least one currently determined signal characteristic of at least one radio network reaches at least a threshold value, i.e., for example, exceeds or falls below it. The decision as to whether the work device continues moving or stops during data transmission is therefore made based on a currently detected signal characteristic of at least one radio network. If, for example, the signal strength decreases during movement, the work device stops to complete the data transmission.

[0061] According to a further embodiment of the method, it has proven particularly advantageous if it is provided that, as a further method step, at least one location suitable for data transmission via the radio network is displayed on a display device for a user as the location for a base station for the work device. Furthermore, it is also provided that a plurality of locations suitable for data transmission as the location for a base station for the work device are displayed on a display device. The display takes place, for example, on a display device of the base station or on a display device of a data processing device, for example a user's mobile device, for example a smartphone, tablet or notebook, or on a computer monitor.The at least one location is displayed, for example, in a graphical representation, for example in a map format of the editing environment.

[0062] This design has the advantage over the prior art that a user does not have to iteratively determine a location with sufficient radio network coverage for the base station by repeatedly repositioning the base station. Instead, at least one location is suggested, particularly after an initial mapping run of the working device. This significantly reduces the user's effort, as the base station can be positioned precisely and, at the same time, data transmission at this location is ensured, either by the base station itself—in the case of base stations with a radio interface—or by a working device located in the base station.

[0063] A further embodiment of the method provides that, as at least one further method step, data intended for transmission via the radio interface via the radio network is kept ready until a location suitable for data transmission is reached during a movement in the processing environment to complete work tasks. The work device plans the data transmission via the radio interface and contains such data, for example measurement, environmental or operating data of the work device, signal position data or other data, ready until a location, in particular an area, with sufficient signal strength of the radio network for data transmission is reached during a movement in the processing environment to complete work tasks, so that data transmission can advantageously take place via the radio network.

[0064] Preferably, only data that exceeds a certain size is held ready. For example, if very large data packets are present, they are not transmitted immediately via the radio interface, but are held ready for transmission until the signal strength is sufficient to transmit large amounts of data due to movement in the processing environment.

[0065] The invention further relates to a working device designed and configured to carry out a method according to one of the described embodiments. Furthermore, the invention relates to a system comprising a working device and a data processing device that can be accessed via the radio network, wherein the system is designed and configured to carry out a method according to one of the described embodiments.

[0066] The invention further relates to a system comprising at least one working device according to one of the described exemplary embodiments and at least one data processing device. The data processing device is designed and configured, for example as a server accessible via the radio network, to determine at least one location in the processing environment suitable for data transmission via the radio network using received signal position data and using at least one threshold value with regard to the signal property, and to transmit at least this location or data relating to this location to the working device via the radio interface. The determination of the location or locations suitable for data transmission is therefore carried out in particular not by a control device of the working device, but by a data processing device accessible via the radio network.In this way, at least part of the computing processes are outsourced to external data processing facilities.

[0067] The object stated above is further achieved by a base station for a work device, in particular for a work device according to one of the described exemplary embodiments, which base station has at least one radio interface for establishing a connection to a radio network, in particular a radio interface to a mobile radio network. Furthermore, the base station has at least one display device for displaying a signal strength of at least one radio network, in particular a mobile radio network. The base station can then be moved by a user in the processing environment, with the signal strength, e.g. a power level, of the radio network, in particular a mobile radio network, being displayed simultaneously on the display device. The base station can then be positioned accordingly by a user in the processing environment, in particular at a location where a high signal strength is displayed on the signal strength display device.In this case, the base station can be used as an access point for multiple work devices, similar to a router.

[0068] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention emerge from the following description of the figures and the dependent subclaims.

[0069] They show: Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a working device in a processing environment, Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of a processing environment, Fig. 3 shows an exemplary representation of signal position data, and Fig. 4 shows an embodiment of a schematic sequence of a method.

[0070] In the various figures of the drawing, identical parts are always provided with the same reference symbols.

[0071] Fig. 1shows an embodiment of a working device 1 with at least one radio interface 2 for data transmission, i.e. for receiving and sending data via at least one radio network 4 present in a processing environment 3. The radio network 4 establishes a data connection to a data processing device 13, for example via a network 14, for example the Internet.

[0072] The working device 1 according to Fig. 1is designed and configured to move autonomously within the processing environment 3. For this purpose, the working device 1 has a plurality of drive wheels 5. For navigation within the processing environment 3, the working device 1 has at least one environmental sensor system 6 with which environmental data of the processing environment 3 can be recorded, thereby enabling navigation of the working device 1 within the processing environment 3. The working device 1 is designed and configured to record at least one signal property, for example a signal strength, of at least one radio network 4 suitable for data transmission at different locations in the processing environment 3 and to generate signal position data therefrom by linking it with the position data of the respective location.The signal position data are stored in a memory, for example in a memory of a control device of the working device 1, or transmitted via the radio network 4 to a data processing device 13.

[0073] Fig. 2shows an embodiment of a processing environment 3 in which a working device 1 is arranged. The working device 1 is designed here as a cleaning device, namely as a vacuum and mop robot. Using at least one threshold value with respect to the at least one signal property, the working device 1 can determine at least one location 7 in the processing environment 3 that is suitable for data transmission via the radio network 4. At this location 7, for example, a signal strength of the radio network 4 or a data transmission rate is sufficiently high to enable advantageous data transmission, in particular of large amounts of data, e.g., for a firmware update or the transmission of map data. In particular, a minimum data transmission rate is achieved at the location 7, for example.

[0074] In Fig. 2In the exemplary embodiment shown, a base station 8 for the working device 1 is arranged at a location that is not suitable for data transmission because the working device 1 has determined that there is insufficient coverage by the radio network 4. The working device 1 is designed and configured to display to a user on a display device at least one location 7 in the processing environment 3 that is suitable for data transmission as a location 9 for the base station 8. The location 9 at location 7 or in area 7 is more suitable as a location for the base station 8 because sufficient signal strength of the radio network 4 for data transmission is guaranteed here. Based on the display of the new location 9 on a display device 10, for example on a user's mobile device, here a smartphone, the user can reposition the base station 8.

[0075] According to Fig. 1The working device 1 further comprises an activation means 11, here in the form of a specially designed button, for initiating a mapping run in the processing environment 3 by a user. During the mapping run, data for navigation within the processing environment 3 is recorded by the working device 1, and at least one signal property of at least one radio network 4 is recorded at different locations in the processing environment 3 in order to generate signal position data therefrom.

[0076] Fig. 3 shows, by way of example, a graphical representation of signal position data 12 of a processing environment 3. As an example, the signal strength of a radio network 4 in the area of ​​the processing environment 3 is graphically represented here. Clearly visible are the locations 7 suitable for data transmission, at which, for example, a minimum data rate for data transmission via the radio network 4 is achieved.

[0077] Fig. 4shows an embodiment of a schematic sequence of a method 100 for operating a work device 1. The method 100 comprises the processing 101 of signal position data 12, wherein the signal position data 12 represents at least one signal property of at least one radio network 4 suitable for data transmission at different locations in the processing environment 3. On the basis of the processed signal position data 12, a determination 102 of at least one location 7 in the processing environment 3 suitable for data transmission via the radio network 4 takes place using at least one threshold value with respect to the at least one signal property.

[0078] Knowing the locations 7 in the processing environment 3 that are suitable for data transmission via the radio network 4, the working device 1 is prompted 103 to move to at least one location 7 that is suitable for data transmission in order to carry out data transmission via the radio network 4, for example a firmware update for the radio network 4 from a data processing device 13 - see Fig. 1 - to receive. The initiation 103 is carried out, for example, in a time-controlled manner, in particular, for example, once a month or event-controlled as described above.

[0079] During data transmission via the radio network 4, the working device 1 either remains 104 at the location 7 suitable for data transmission or moves 105 the working device 1 to complete work tasks. During the movement 105, at least one current signal property of the radio network 4 is monitored 106. If this signal property reaches a predetermined threshold value, for example, exceeds or falls below it, the working device 1 is stopped, for example, until the data transmission is completed.

[0080] Based on the determination 102 of the locations 7 which are suitable for data transmission, at least one location 7 which is suitable for data transmission via the radio network 4 is preferably displayed 107 on a display device 10 (see, for example, Fig. 2) for a user as location 9 for a base station 8 for the work device 1. This display 107 occurs in particular when a current location of the base station 8 has unfavorable signal properties for data transmission, for example a minimum data rate is not achieved at the current location.

[0081] Preferably, provision is made for data intended for transmission via the radio interface 2 via the radio network 4 to be kept ready 108 until a location 7 suitable for data transmission is reached during a movement in a processing environment 3 to complete work tasks. The work device 1 is consequently controlled in such a way that it does not undertake a separate movement to a suitable location 7 for data transmission, but rather waits with the data transmission until a suitable location 7 is reached during a normal movement while performing work tasks. The keeping ready 108 occurs, for example, when data intended for transmission exceeds a predetermined data volume. List of reference symbols

[0082] 1Working device 2Radio interface 3Working environment 4Radio network 5Drive wheels 6Environmental sensor system 7Suitable location for data transmission 8Base station 9Location 10Display device 11Activation means 12Graphically displayed signal position data 13Data processing device 14Network 100Procedure 101Process 102Determine 103Initiate 104Dwell 105Move 106Monitor 107Display 108Standby

Claims

1. A working device (1) with at least one radio interface (2) for data transmission, wherein the working device (1) is at least designed and configured to move autonomously in a processing environment (3) and to detect at least one signal characteristic of at least one radio network (4) suitable for data transmission at different locations in the processing environment (3) and to generate signal position data (12) by linking with the position data of the respective location, wherein the working device (1) is further designed and configured to determine at least one location (7) in the processing environment (3) which is suitable for data transmission via the radio network using at least one threshold value with respect to the signal characteristic and / or to provide the signal position data (12) for determining at least one location (7) in the processing environment (3) which is suitable for data transmission via the radio network (4) using at least one threshold value with respect to the signal characteristic by means of a data processing device (13) at the radio interface (2) and to receive data relating to at least one determined location (7), characterized in that the working device (1) is also designed and configured to be used for carrying out work tasks in processing environments (3) in which the radio network (4) does not have sufficient signal strength for a data connection in all areas of the processing environment (3), in that the working device (1) is furthermore designed and configured to move to a location (7) in the processing environment (7) which is suitable for data transmission when a predetermined event occurs and / or for transmitting - sending or receiving - data with a size which exceeds a predetermined threshold value, and / or in a time-controlled manner.

2. Working device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the working device (1) is also designed and configured to move to a location (7) suitable for data transmission when a malfunction occurs.

3. Working device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the working device (1) is also designed and configured to hold data intended for transmission at the radio interface (2) during a movement in the processing environment (3) for completing work tasks until a location (7) suitable for data transmission is reached.

4. Working device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the working device (1) is furthermore designed and configured to remain at the location (7) until a data transmission is completed and / or to slow down a movement at the location (7) for a data transmission and / or to continue a movement at the location (7) during the data transmission, for example for the completion of work tasks, in particular to continue it as a function of at least one threshold value for at least one current specific signal characteristic.

5. Working device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the working device (1) is furthermore designed and configured to repeat the detection of at least one signal characteristic at different locations and the linking to signal position data (12) in order to update and / or supplement the signal position data (12), in particular to repeat it in a time-controlled and / or event-controlled manner.

6. Working device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the working device (1) is furthermore designed and configured to display at least one determined location (7) in the processing environment (3), which is suitable for data transmission, on a display device for a user as a location (9) for a base station (8) for the working device (1), or to provide at least one determined location (7) in the processing environment (3) on the radio interface (2) for a display on a display device, in particular in that the display or the provision for display takes place when the radio network (4) at a current location of the base station (8) has a signal characteristic which reaches a predetermined threshold value.

7. Working device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the at least one signal characteristic is a signal strength and / or a frequency and / or a signal attenuation and / or a data transmission rate and / or a transmission technology.

8. Working device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the working device (1) has at least one activation means (11) for manual activation of a mapping run in the processing environment (3) by a user, and in that the mapping run includes the detection of at least one signal characteristic of at least one radio network (4) at different locations in the processing environment (3).

9. Method (100) for operating a working device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the working device (1) has at least one radio interface (2) for data transmission, and wherein the working device (1) is at least designed and configured to move autonomously in a processing environment (3), wherein in the processing environment (3) a radio network (4) suitable for data transmission does not have sufficient signal strength for a data connection in all areas of the processing environment (3), wherein at least the following method step is included: - processing (101) signal position data (12), the signal position data (12) representing at least one signal characteristic of at least one radio network (4) suitable for data transmission at different locations in the processing environment (3), characterized in that at least the following process step is also included: - determining (102) at least one location (7) in the processing environment (3) suitable for data transmission via the radio network (4) using at least one threshold value relating to the signal characteristic, causing (103) the working device (1) to move to a location (7) suitable for data transmission when a predetermined event occurs and / or for transmitting - sending or receiving - data of a size exceeding a predetermined threshold value and / or in a time-controlled manner, in that the working device (1) is furthermore designed and configured to be used for carrying out work tasks in processing environments (3) in which the radio network (4) does not have sufficient signal strength for a data connection in all areas of the processing environment (3).

10. Method (100) according to claim 9, characterized in that at least the following process step is included: - Display (107) of at least one location (7), which is suitable for data transmission via the radio network (4), on a display device for a user as a location (9) for a base station (8) for the working device (1), in particular if, at a current location of the base station (8), the radio network (4) has at least one signal characteristic which reaches a predetermined threshold value.

11. Method (100) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that furthermore at least the following process steps is further comprised: - maintaining (108) data intended for transmission via the radio interface (2) over the radio network (4) until a location (7) suitable for data transmission is reached when the working device (1) is moved in the processing environment (3) to perform work tasks.

12. Method (100) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that a staying (104) of the working device (1) at a location (7) suitable for data transmission takes place until a data transmission is completed and / or that a movement (105) for completing work tasks takes place during the data transmission as long as at least one current threshold value of at least one signal characteristic is reached.

13. System, comprising at least one working device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8 and at least one data processing device (13), wherein the data processing device (13) is designed and configured to determine at least one location (7) in the processing environment (3) suitable for data transmission via the radio network (4) using at least one threshold value in relation to received signal position data (12) and, in particular, to transmit data relating to the location (7) to the working device (1).