Docking Cleaning Units With Shared Power for Longer Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning and grounds maintenance systems face limitations in operational range and time due to reliance on internal batteries or external power sources, leading to increased labor time and restricted functionality when components are detached or disconnected.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a primary unit with a combustion engine, fuel cell, or batteries that powers or charges secondary units, allowing for extended range and operating time, with wireless power interfaces and modular battery compartments to enhance flexibility and efficiency, and communication modules for remote control and autonomous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If the system uses internal batteries for power, then the units can operate independently and portably, but the operational time is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the power source into multiple separate battery units that can be independently attached to or removed from the primary and secondary units. This allows the operational time to be extended by adding more battery segments without increasing the complexity of a single large power source.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery units are designed as universal power sources that can be attached to either the primary unit or secondary unit, serving multiple functions. The same battery can power different components at different times, maximizing its utilization and extending overall operational time without requiring dedicated power sources for each function.
2Length of moving object
If the system uses external power supply via power cable, then the operational range is extended, but the mobility is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between battery-powered portable mode and docked mode with extended range. The primary and secondary units can operate independently with limited range, or dock together to access the extended range capability of the primary unit's docking station, providing adaptive operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking station acts as an intermediary between the secondary unit and external power sources. When the secondary unit docks with the primary unit, it gains access to extended operational range through the docking station's connection to external power, without requiring the secondary unit itself to have built-in long-range capabilities.
3Ease of manufacture
If the primary unit functions only as a docking station, then the secondary units can be charged and stored, but all cleaning functions must be performed by portable units increasing labor time
Solution Approach 1:
The primary unit is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a docking station for charging and storing secondary units, and as an independent cleaning device capable of performing cleaning functions. This eliminates the need for secondary units to perform all cleaning operations, reducing labor time while maintaining docking capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the functions of a docking station and a cleaning device into a single primary unit. By combining storage, charging, and cleaning capabilities in one unit, the system reduces the number of separate devices needed and allows the primary unit to share the cleaning workload, thereby reducing overall labor time.
4Duration of action of moving object
If the system uses a single battery in the robot cleaner, then the structure is simple, but the operation time is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The power system is segmented into multiple detachable battery units that can be independently attached to the secondary unit. Instead of a single large battery, the system uses multiple smaller battery segments that can be combined or removed based on operational needs, extending operation time while maintaining simple individual battery structures.
Data Source
AI summary
A system has a primary unit (1) and a number of secondary units (16), which may be stored in receiving slots in the primary cleaning unit (1) or be coupled to the primary unit. The primary and secondary units are configured as movable cleaning or grounds maintenance units capable of performing at least one cleaning or grounds maintenance operation. The primary unit (1) is powered by a power source (2), which also powers the secondary unit (16) or charges a power source (17) in the secondary unit (16). Each unit has a communications module (13, 25) capable of communicating with each other and/or a remote location. At least one of the units (1, 16) may include one or more proximity or near-field sensors and/or one or more sensor for sensing the performance of the unit (1, 16).