Cleaning robot and method for controlling the same

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current cleaning robots lack an intuitive and convenient method for users to perform cleaning tasks based on their intention, particularly in manual mode, which requires users to lie down or sit and apply force, leading to user inconvenience.

Innovation Solution

A cleaning robot with a detachable operation unit equipped with motion sensors that detect user input, allowing the robot to adjust its traveling direction and speed based on user motion, and an engagement sensor to switch between automatic and manual modes, enabling easier manual operation with reduced user effort.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the cleaning robot operates in manual mode without motion sensors, then the user can directly control the robot, but the user must lie down or sit and apply significant force, leading to user inconvenience and physical strain

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanual operation convenienceVSAvoiduser physical strain

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the direct mechanical pushing system with a sensor-based control system. Motion sensors detect the user's hand movements and gestures, converting them into control signals that drive the robot's motors. This substitution eliminates the need for the user to physically push or pull the robot, thereby reducing physical strain while maintaining manual control capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The motion sensors act as an intermediary between the user and the robot's driving system. Instead of direct mechanical contact, the user's intentions are captured through sensor detection of hand movements, which then translate into robot motion. This intermediary mechanism allows for intuitive control without physical effort

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Extent of automation

If the cleaning robot operates in automatic mode, then the cleaning work is performed autonomously, but the robot cannot adapt to user's specific cleaning intentions or manual guidance

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautonomous cleaning capabilityVSAvoiduser intention response

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic mode switching system that allows the robot to transition between automatic and manual control modes. The engagement sensor detects whether the operation unit is coupled to the main body, automatically switching the control mode accordingly. This dynamic adaptability enables the robot to respond to user intentions when needed while maintaining autonomous operation when not engaged

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The robot is designed with multi-functional control capabilities, integrating both automatic navigation and manual control systems. The same robot can operate autonomously using its navigation algorithms or switch to manual mode where motion sensors interpret user gestures. This universal design allows the system to adapt to different operational requirements and user preferences

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Device complexity

If the operation unit is permanently fixed to the main body, then the structure is simpler, but the user cannot easily attach or detach the operation unit for storage or transport

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoupling structureVSAvoidoperation unit accessibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the robot into separable components: the main body and the operation unit. The coupling unit provides a standardized interface that allows the operation unit to be easily attached or detached from the main body. This segmentation enables flexible storage and transport while maintaining a relatively simple coupling mechanism through standardized interfaces

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

The solution enhances user convenience by allowing seamless switching between automatic and manual modes, reducing the effort required for manual cleaning and improving the overall cleaning experience by reflecting user intention.

Implementation Method 1

at least one motion sensor provided to detect a motion of the operation unit

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMotion detection:

Implementation Method 2

an engagement sensor provided to detect whether the operation unit is coupled to the main body

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPosition detection:

Data Source

PatentUS11737626B2Cleaning robot and method for controlling the same

Publication Date: 2023.08.29 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A cleaning robot having an improved structure capable of improving a user convenience and method for controlling the same are disclosed herein. A cleaning robot includes a main body to form an outer appearance and having an inlet port provided to suck a foreign matter present in a cleaning area, an operation unit detachably coupled to the main body and provided to be gripped, at least one motion sensor provided to detect a motion of the operation unit, and a control unit electrically connected to the at least one motion sensor to drive a driving motor of the main body based on the motion of the operation unit detected by the at least one motion sensor.