Surface cleaning apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surface cleaning apparatuses lack advanced data collection and control capabilities, limiting user information and operational control, particularly in terms of real-time adjustments and remote monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A connected surface cleaning apparatus equipped with sensors and a controller that transmits data to a remote computing device via wireless technology, allowing for real-time monitoring and operational adjustments, including adjustments to cleaning fluid flow rates based on dirt sensor data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If surface cleaning apparatuses use traditional control systems without connectivity, then device complexity is reduced, but user information access and operational control are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a remote computing device as an intermediary between the user and the surface cleaning apparatus. This mediator collects data from sensors on the apparatus and presents it to the user through a user interface, eliminating the need for complex onboard processing while maintaining full information access. The remote device acts as a bridge that handles data processing and presentation externally.
Solution Approach 2:
The surface cleaning apparatus autonomously collects and transmits operational data from its sensors without requiring complex onboard processing. The apparatus serves itself by gathering information and making it available to remote devices, while the actual data analysis and user interface functions are handled externally by the remote computing device.
2Ease of operation
If surface cleaning apparatuses lack real-time data transmission capabilities, then device complexity is minimized, but operational control and monitoring are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback loop where sensors continuously monitor operational parameters (fluid flow rates, suction, agitation) and transmit this data to the remote computing device. The user can then adjust operational parameters in real-time based on this feedback, enabling dynamic control without requiring complex onboard processing or decision-making capabilities in the apparatus itself.
3Adaptability or versatility
If surface cleaning apparatuses use preprogrammed microprocessors, then automation capability is provided, but adaptability and real-time adjustments are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static preprogrammed microprocessors to a dynamic system where operational parameters can be adjusted in real-time based on sensor data and user input. The apparatus maintains simple onboard control logic for basic automation while enabling dynamic adaptability through continuous data transmission and remote control capabilities, allowing operational parameters to change flexibly without requiring complex onboard decision-making.
Data Source
AI summary
A surface cleaning apparatus includes a controller coupled to a sensor or a set of sensors that collects and transmits data to a remote computing device. The surface cleaning apparatus can use wireless or networking technology with a protocol for wireless communication with the remote computing device. The remote computing device is configured to identify an event at the surface cleaning apparatus and/or a change in the cycle of operation of the surface cleaning apparatus based on the transmitted data. Sensor data can be transmitted from the remote computing device to a different surface cleaning apparatus.