Cleaning device and method for operating a cleaning device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning devices powered by rechargeable batteries inefficiently utilize battery capacity due to fixed shutdown thresholds, leading to premature shutdown and the need for more expensive high-capacity batteries to extend running time, without providing optimal energy utilization.
Innovation Solution
Assigning individual, predetermined cutoff thresholds to each power level based on load, allowing the device to switch to a lower power level when the threshold is reached, optimizing battery usage and extending operational time without requiring higher-capacity batteries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a fixed shutdown threshold is used for all power levels, then the battery is protected from over-discharge, but the battery capacity is not fully utilized leading to shorter running time
Solution Approach 1:
The single fixed shutdown threshold is segmented into multiple power level-specific thresholds. Each power level (e.g., P1, P2, P3) has its own predetermined shutdown threshold (e.g., Umin1, Umin2, Umin3) stored in the control device. This segmentation allows the system to optimize battery utilization for each power level while protecting against over-discharge, thereby extending running time without requiring higher-capacity batteries.
2Duration of action of moving object
If higher-capacity batteries are used to extend running time, then the running time increases, but the device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the operational parameters by implementing power level-dependent shutdown thresholds. Instead of modifying the battery hardware (which would increase cost), the control device adjusts the shutdown voltage threshold parameter based on the selected power level. This software-based parameter optimization extends running time by fully utilizing the existing battery capacity without requiring more expensive high-capacity battery cells.
3Reliability
If the cleaning device switches off completely at undervoltage threshold, then the battery is protected from damage, but the user loses feedback on battery charge level
Solution Approach 1:
The shutdown threshold is made dynamic rather than static. The control device automatically adapts the shutdown threshold based on the currently active power level. When a power level is reached, the corresponding predetermined threshold is applied, allowing the device to remain operational longer at lower power levels while still protecting the battery. This dynamic adaptation maintains battery protection while providing continuous useful operation and feedback to the user.
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 longer cleaning times by optimizing battery capacity utilization, allowing users to clean larger areas without needing more expensive batteries, while maintaining user feedback on battery levels.
Implementation Method 1
Due to the accumulator's internal resistance, the voltage level at the accumulator terminals drops at higher power consumption levels
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a cleaning device with - a drive unit (2) which is designed to drive a blower (3) and/or drive assembly, - an accumulator (1) which is designed to supply the drive unit (2) with energy, and - a control and/or regulating device in which a plurality of power levels (P(high), P(medium), P(low)) are stored, with which the drive unit (2) is operated with an individual load assigned to the respective power level (P(high), P(medium), P(low)), wherein each power level (P(high), P(medium), P(low)) is assigned an individual, predetermined switch-off threshold (Umina, Uminb, 41, 43, 45) which depends on the load of the respective power level (P(high), P(medium), P(low)). Furthermore, the invention relates to a corresponding method for operating such a cleaning device.