Cleaning system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous floor cleaners require manual refilling and emptying of cleaning solutions and waste, limiting their operational autonomy and convenience.
Innovation Solution
A docking station system that integrates with existing plumbing infrastructure to automatically refill the cleaning solution tank and empty the recovery tank of autonomous floor cleaners, utilizing a toilet or other household appliances for fluid supply and disposal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual refilling and emptying of cleaning solution tanks is required, then the floor cleaner can operate with simple tank design, but the operational autonomy and user convenience are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the floor cleaner with a docking station that integrates fluid supply and disposal systems. The docking station merges multiple functions (refilling, emptying, charging) into a single stationary unit, allowing the mobile cleaner to gain automated fluid management capabilities without carrying all necessary components independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking station serves as an intermediary between the floor cleaner and the external environment (water sources, drains). It mediates the fluid transfer processes by providing standardized interfaces and control mechanisms, enabling automated refilling and emptying operations without direct user intervention.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the floor cleaner carries large capacity tanks for extended operation, then the duration of action increases, but the weight and volume of the moving object increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid management system is segmented into two parts: a compact portable tank on the floor cleaner for immediate operation, and a larger stationary storage system at the docking station for extended supply. This segmentation allows the moving object to maintain maneuverability while the stationary part provides extended operational duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking station performs preliminary actions by pre-filling the cleaner's tank with cleaning solution before deployment and pre-positioning disposal containers at the docking station. This allows the cleaner to start operations with full tanks without carrying the weight of large storage containers.
3Ease of operation
If the floor cleaner is equipped with automated docking and fluid transfer capabilities, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station is designed as a universal platform that can serve multiple floor cleaners simultaneously and perform multiple functions (refilling, emptying, charging, data transfer). This multi-functionality amortizes the manufacturing complexity across multiple uses and units, making the system more economically viable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where the floor cleaner autonomously docks with the station, triggers fluid transfer operations, and manages its own supply and disposal needs without user intervention. The cleaner's control system actively manages the docking and fluid exchange processes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables long-term autonomous operation of floor cleaners by automating the refilling and emptying processes, leveraging existing home infrastructure for efficient fluid management and battery recharging, thus enhancing user convenience and reducing manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
a liquid supply system configured to fill a supply tank onboard the autonomous floor cleaner
Implementation Method 2
a disposal system configured to empty a recovery tank onboard the autonomous floor cleaner
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for refilling, emptying and/or recharging of an autonomous floor cleaner includes a docking station (10, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 810, 1110, 1210) adapted to be coupled with a household plumbing infrastructure. The docking station can be provided on a household appliance, which may be a toilet (30, 330, 430, 530, 630), a dishwasher (830, 110), or another appliance coupled with the plumbing infrastructure.