Mop attachment for robotic surface cleaning devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic surface cleaning devices often require multiple robots with different capabilities for vacuuming and mopping, increasing cost and maintenance, and existing mopping features are inefficient due to uncontrolled fluid flow from a liquid tank.
Innovation Solution
A removable mop attachment module with a pressure actuated valve that controls fluid flow through drainage apertures, allowing efficient distribution of cleaning fluid onto a mopping cloth by opening when negative pressure builds up and closing when air pressure increases, reducing fluid consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a liquid tank with uncontrolled fluid flow is used for mopping, then the robot can perform wet mopping, but the cleaning fluid is inefficiently consumed and doesn't last long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the flow regime parameter from uncontrolled continuous flow to controlled intermittent flow. The flow rate and timing are adjusted by opening/closing the valve in response to robot motion states, transforming the fluid delivery pattern to match actual mopping needs and reduce waste
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the robot's own motion state (moving vs. stationary) to automatically control the valve operation. The fluid flow is triggered by the robot's movement itself, eliminating the need for external control mechanisms while ensuring fluid is delivered only when the robot is actively mopping
2Reliability
If multiple robots with different capabilities are used for vacuuming and mopping, then each robot can be specialized, but the cost of ownership and maintenance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds mopping capability to an existing vacuuming robot through a removable attachment module. The robot can now perform both vacuuming and wet mopping functions using the same base unit, eliminating the need for separate specialized robots and reducing overall system complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If a removable mop attachment module is added to a robotic cleaning device, then the device gains mopping capability, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mopping system is segmented into a removable attachment module that can be independently attached or detached from the main robot body. This modular design allows the robot to gain mopping capability only when needed, without permanently increasing the complexity of the base unit
Solution Approach 2:
A simple valve mechanism acts as an intermediary between the robot's motion state and the fluid flow control. This intermediate component translates the robot's movement into automated valve operation, enabling intelligent fluid control without complex sensing or control systems
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 enables efficient and controlled fluid distribution, extending the cleaning fluid's lifespan and reducing maintenance costs by allowing precise control over fluid flow, thereby enhancing the mopping capability of robotic surface cleaning devices.
Implementation Method 1
the pressure actuated valve opens from a closed position when an air pressure inside the reservoir reaches a predetermined amount of negative air pressure due to fluid flowing out of the reservoir through the at least one drainage aperture
Implementation Method 2
the pressure actuated valve closes from an open position when the air pressure inside the reservoir increases to a predetermined amount due to air flowing into the reservoir through the at least one breathing aperture
Data Source
AI summary
A removable mop attachment module, including a frame; a reservoir positioned within the frame; at least one drainage aperture positioned at a bottom of the reservoir; at least one breathing aperture positioned on the reservoir; and a pressure actuated valve positioned at least partially on an inner surface of the reservoir, covering the at least one breathing aperture.