System and method of software and pitch control of a disinfection module for a semi-autonomous cleaning and disinfection device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing autonomous or semi-autonomous cleaning devices lack precision control for disinfection modules, leading to inadequate disinfection levels and wasteful use of disinfectant solution, with UV-based systems failing to disinfect behind occlusions and blanket coverage issues.
Innovation Solution
A software-controlled disinfection module system that integrates with a semi-autonomous cleaning device, utilizing sensors for localization and actuator control, precise path planning, and electrostatic spraying to target high-touch surfaces, with adjustable flow rates and dynamic obstacle avoidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If blanket coverage disinfection is used, then coverage area is increased, but disinfectant solution is wasted on non-touch point areas
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from uniform blanket coverage to localized targeted spraying. The disinfection module identifies specific high-touch surfaces through sensors and mapping, then directs spray only to those precise locations. This localizes the disinfection action to exactly where it is needed (touch points like door handles, railings, switches) rather than applying disinfectant across the entire area, thereby eliminating waste on non-touch point surfaces while maintaining adequate coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The disinfection process is segmented into identification and treatment phases. The system first maps and identifies discrete touch point targets within the environment, then separately executes spraying only on those identified targets. This segmentation allows the system to cover all necessary areas without wasting disinfectant on unnecessary surfaces, resolving the contradiction between comprehensive coverage and resource efficiency.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If UV light-based disinfection is used, then contactless disinfection is achieved, but occluded areas remain undisinfected
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces UV light-based disinfection with a spray-based mechanical delivery system. Instead of relying on electromagnetic radiation that cannot penetrate occlusions, the system uses pumped disinfectant solution delivered through spray nozzles. This mechanical substitution allows the disinfectant to be applied directly to surfaces behind occlusions by navigating around them or spraying from multiple angles, thereby achieving complete coverage while maintaining contactless operation through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary mapping and identification of occlusions and target surfaces before executing the disinfection routine. By预先 identifying areas that may be occluded and planning spray paths accordingly, the system ensures complete coverage of all surfaces including those behind occlusions, thereby resolving the reliability issue of incomplete disinfection while maintaining the contactless benefit.
3Manufacturing precision
If autonomous precision control is implemented, then disinfection accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system leverages the existing multi-functional capabilities of the autonomous cleaning device, which already possesses sensors, mapping, navigation, and control systems for cleaning operations. By reusing these existing components for disinfection control, the system achieves precision autonomous control without proportionally increasing overall device complexity. The same sensors and processors used for cleaning path planning are also used for disinfection target identification and spray control.
Solution Approach 2:
The disinfection control system is merged with the existing autonomous navigation and control architecture of the cleaning device. Rather than creating a separate complex control system, the disinfection module integrates with the device's existing sensors, processors, and actuators. This consolidation achieves precision control for disinfection while avoiding the complexity overhead of duplicate systems, as the same hardware and software infrastructure serves both cleaning and disinfection functions.
4Productivity
If simultaneous cleaning and disinfecting operations are performed, then productivity is increased, but control coordination difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operation mode based on real-time conditions and task requirements. Rather than rigidly executing fixed sequences, the control system can switch between simultaneous cleaning-disinfection mode, sequential mode, or disinfection-only mode depending on environmental factors, target priorities, and resource availability. This dynamic adaptability allows high productivity when conditions permit while managing coordination complexity through flexible, context-aware control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic alternating operations where cleaning and disinfection are performed in alternating cycles or passes through the same area. Rather than attempting to coordinate both operations continuously throughout the entire environment, the device completes cleaning of a zone, then performs disinfection of that same zone in a subsequent pass. This periodic separation simplifies control coordination while still achieving both functions across the full area, thereby maintaining productivity without excessive coordination complexity.
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 accurate and efficient disinfection of high-touch surfaces with reduced disinfectant use, ensuring complete coverage and minimizing overspray, while allowing concurrent cleaning and disinfecting operations.
Implementation Method 1
electrostatic spraying to target high-touch surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of software control and autonomy of a disinfection module for an autonomous or semi-autonomous cleaning device. The disinfection module control software resides on a computer with processor and memory. The disinfection module is connected to peripherals for sensing and localizing in the environment and controlling the actuators for the motion of the cleaning device. The disinfection module control software processes the sprayer's status, follows and plans paths to move the cleaning device to the spray targets, generates appropriate motion commands, and controls the disinfection module's pump, fan, LED, and electrostatic generator states.