Cleaner Station Automatic Pad Supply Using Discharge and Guide Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robot cleaners require manual replacement of cleaning pads, which is inconvenient for users.
Innovation Solution
A cleaner station with a movable container that automatically supplies cleaning pads to a seating surface using a discharge link and guide link mechanism, allowing for automated pad replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual replacement of cleaning pads is used, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning pad replacement system operates automatically without user intervention. The discharge link moves the support tip to release the cleaning pad, and the guide link automatically guides the pad from the container to the seating surface, enabling the system to service itself
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple cleaning pads are pre-stored in the container before operation begins. The system is prepared in advance with a supply of pads, eliminating the need for manual reloading during operation
2Ease of operation
If automatic cleaning pad supply is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic pad supply mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: the discharge link for releasing pads from the container, and the guide link for directing pads to the seating surface. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function with simple structure
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses movable links that can change position dynamically. The discharge link moves the support tip between inner and outer positions, while the guide link rotates to guide pads, providing automatic operation through dynamic mechanical movement rather than static complex mechanisms
3Productivity
If cleaning pads are automatically supplied to seating surface, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning pad supply system operates autonomously using the container's own movement. When the container moves, the discharge link is actuated automatically, and the guide link rotates to deliver pads without requiring external control systems or complex automation mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The pad supply function is merged with the container's movement function. The container's motion serves dual purposes: transporting pads during storage and actuating the discharge mechanism during supply, eliminating the need for separate drive systems
Data Source
AI summary
A cleaning device including a cleaner and a cleaner station. The cleaner station includes: a container which accommodates one or more cleaning pads and is arranged to be movable; and a main body arrangeable under the container and including a cleaning pad seating surface. The cleaner station including a slide link arranged to move along with the container. Furthermore, the cleaner station includes a discharge link arranged in the container, wherein the discharge link includes: a support tip protruding toward the inside of the container to support a cleaning pad, which is closest to the seating surface, among the accommodated cleaning pads; and a discharge hook arranged to be pressed to move the support tip out of the container based on the container being moved toward the cleaning pad seating surface.