Base station and method for operating a cleaning system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning systems lack a fast, flexible, and energy-efficient method for simultaneously maintaining multiple cleaning devices, such as vacuum cleaners and robots, with a simple and robust design that enhances user-friendliness and device availability.
Innovation Solution
A base station that can simultaneously service multiple cleaning devices by automatically emptying, vacuuming, and charging them, featuring a modular design with separate modules for each device, including a control unit and a filter device with expandable connections for efficient fluid and electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the base station services multiple cleaning devices simultaneously, then the productivity and device availability increase, but the device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The base station is divided into multiple independent service modules, each capable of servicing one cleaning device. Each module includes its own fluid connection, filter, and control mechanisms. This segmentation allows the base station to handle multiple devices simultaneously while keeping each module relatively simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The base station is designed with universal interfaces and standardized connection mechanisms that can accommodate different types of cleaning devices (vacuum cleaners, robot cleaners, etc.). The fluid connections and control systems are designed to work with various device types, reducing the need for device-specific complex infrastructure.
2Productivity
If the base station services multiple cleaning devices simultaneously, then the productivity increases, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base station employs dynamic control mechanisms that adjust the operation of each service module based on real-time needs. When a cleaning device is connected, the base station activates only the necessary modules and adjusts their power consumption accordingly. The system can dynamically switch between servicing one or multiple devices based on availability and demand, optimizing energy usage while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The base station is designed to maintain continuous operation across multiple service modules, allowing it to service multiple cleaning devices without interruption. The system can seamlessly transition between devices and maintain optimal energy consumption levels throughout the maintenance process, ensuring high productivity without excessive energy spikes.
3Ease of operation
If the base station prioritizes servicing certain cleaning devices, then the ease of operation increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base station incorporates automatic detection and prioritization mechanisms that identify connected cleaning devices and determine service priorities without requiring complex user input. The system can automatically detect device types, assess their maintenance needs, and prioritize servicing based on predefined criteria or device status, making operation simple for users while managing complexity internally.
Solution Approach 2:
The base station uses feedback mechanisms to monitor the status of connected cleaning devices and adjust service priorities in real-time. Sensors and communication interfaces provide continuous information about device conditions, allowing the control system to make intelligent decisions about which devices to service first, balancing ease of operation with efficient resource management.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
A method for operating a cleaning system with several mobile cleaning devices and a base station for the cleaning devices, as well as a base station for several mobile cleaning devices, is proposed, wherein the cleaning devices can be emptied and/or filled with a cleaning agent from the base station according to a prioritization, wherein an emptying and/or filling of a first cleaning device is started or continued when a second cleaning device has been completely emptied or filled and/or is in use.