Improvements relating to robotic cleaning systems and robots therefor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current robotic cleaning systems, such as window and floor cleaners, are not fully perfected, lacking efficiency and effectiveness in navigating and cleaning surfaces, especially in challenging environments like high windows and areas with hazardous substances.
Innovation Solution
A robotic system with advanced navigation and attachment systems, including suction-based attachment, proximity sensing, and vibrational cleaning pad mechanisms, enables efficient movement and cleaning on various surfaces, including hard-to-reach areas and those with hazardous substances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If robotic cleaning systems are used for challenging environments (high windows, hazardous substances), then labor efficiency and safety are improved, but the complexity of navigation and attachment systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic cleaning system is divided into separate functional modules: navigation system, attachment system, cleaning mechanism, and control system. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently while working together as an integrated system, resolving the contradiction between improved productivity and increased device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate components such as suction-based attachment mechanisms and proximity sensing systems that mediate between the robot and the challenging environment. These intermediaries enable the robot to operate safely and efficiently in difficult conditions without requiring direct complex interactions with hazardous or hard-to-reach areas.
2Reliability
If suction-based attachment and proximity sensing are implemented, then cleaning effectiveness on various surfaces is improved, but the device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The suction-based attachment system serves multiple functions: it provides reliable attachment to various surfaces (windows, walls, floors), enables stable positioning during cleaning, and can be integrated with the cleaning mechanism itself. This multi-functionality improves cleaning effectiveness while minimizing the need for separate attachment devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The proximity sensing system automatically detects surface distances and adjusts cleaning parameters without human intervention. The system self-regulates its operation based on real-time environmental feedback, improving reliability while reducing the complexity of manual control systems.
3Manufacturing precision
If vibrational cleaning pad mechanisms are used, then cleaning thoroughness is improved, but the energy consumption and mechanical complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning pad mechanism uses periodic vibrational motion rather than continuous mechanical action. This periodic vibration delivers concentrated cleaning force at specific intervals, achieving thorough cleaning while consuming less energy than continuous mechanical scrubbing would require.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs mechanical vibration of the cleaning pad to enhance cleaning effectiveness. The vibrational motion creates dynamic cleaning action that removes dirt and debris more efficiently than static pressure, while the vibration can be controlled to optimize energy consumption.
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 system effectively navigates and cleans surfaces with improved attachment and movement, ensuring thorough cleaning and safety in challenging environments, enhancing labor efficiency and surface cleanliness.
Implementation Method 1
at least one air pump, configured to apply an air pressure differential across each high-impedance region; wherein said air pressure differential is sufficient to force the cleaning fluid accumulated in the vicinity of each high-impedance region through the high-impedance region in question and to the one or more cleaning pads
Implementation Method 2
A robotic system with advanced navigation and attachment systems, including suction-based attachment
Data Source
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AI summary
A window-cleaning robot comprises a main body; a cleaning pad mounting member, upon which a cleaning pad may be mounted; a linkage having a first end, at which the linkage is mounted on said main body, and a second end, which is operatively connected to said cleaning pad mounting member; and a motor. The motor is configured to cause vibrational movements of said linkage, which as a result contacts said cleaning pad mounting member, causing vibrational movements thereof and of said cleaning pad. The cleaning pad is disposed on a window-engaging side of the robot. The linkage is moveably mounted on the main body so as to permit movement of the cleaning pad mounting member relative to the main body within a plane parallel to said window-engaging side.