Asymmetric Coverage Robot Chassis for Wall Edge and Corner Cleaning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing autonomous floor cleaning robots struggle to effectively clean along wall edges and in corners due to their cylindrical shape, which limits their ability to maneuver and collect debris in these areas.

Innovation Solution

A compact autonomous coverage robot with a rectangular front form factor and a cleaning mechanism positioned near the corners, allowing it to flush against walls and corners, combined with a bin system for debris collection and sensors for navigation and obstacle avoidance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a cylindrical shape is used for the robot, then the robot can maneuver around obstacles freely, but the robot cannot effectively clean along wall edges and in corners

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecleaning coverage in corners and wall edgesVSAvoidmaneuverability around obstacles

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The robot employs an asymmetric chassis design where the front portion is rectangular to enable corner cleaning, while the rear portion is rounded to facilitate maneuverability around obstacles. This asymmetric configuration allows the robot to combine the advantages of both shapes for different operational requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The robot's chassis is segmented into two distinct portions: a front rectangular section housing the cleaning mechanism for corner effectiveness, and a rear rounded section providing maneuverability. This segmentation allows each portion to optimize its function independently.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the cleaning mechanism is positioned at the center of the robot, then the structure is simplified, but the robot cannot bring the cleaning mechanism flush with wall corners or edges

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to clean wall edges and cornersVSAvoidchassis and cleaning mechanism configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cleaning mechanism is asymmetrically positioned within the rectangular front portion of the chassis, specifically located to extend toward the corners. This asymmetric placement enables the cleaning mechanism to reach wall edges and corners effectively while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

Data Source

PatentUS10070764B2Compact autonomous coverage robot

Publication Date: 2018.09.11 IROBOT CORP

AI summary

An autonomous coverage robot includes a chassis having forward and rearward portions and a drive system carried by the chassis. The forward portion of the chassis defines a substantially rectangular shape. The robot includes a cleaning assembly mounted on the forward portion of the chassis and a bin disposed adjacent the cleaning assembly and configured to receive debris agitated by the cleaning assembly. A bin cover is pivotally attached to a lower portion of the chassis and configured to rotate between a first, closed position providing closure of an opening defined by the bin and a second, open position providing access to the bin opening. The robot includes a body attached to the chassis and a handle disposed on an upper portion of the body. A bin cover release is actuatable from substantially near the handle.