Autonomous cleaner
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robot cleaners face challenges such as reduced suction force, inability to separate the brush roller, increased collision probability of the suction unit with obstacles, blind spots in sensing, and inconvenient HEPA filter replacement due to complex disassembly requirements.
Innovation Solution
The design includes a suction unit protruding from the cleaner body with cover members to prevent collisions, a sensing unit with overlapping coverage to detect obstacles, and a modular dust container system with easy assembly and filter access, allowing for improved navigation and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the suction unit protrudes from the cleaner body, then the suction force is improved, but the collision probability with obstacles increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suction unit is designed to be movable relative to the cleaner body, capable of protruding forward during cleaning operations and retracting when obstacles are detected by the sensing unit. This dynamic configuration allows the suction unit to maintain an optimal position for suction performance while automatically avoiding collisions, thus resolving the contradiction between improved suction force and reduced collision probability
2Power
If the suction unit protrudes from the cleaner body, then the suction force is improved, but the suction unit is located in a blind spot of the sensing unit
Solution Approach 1:
An auxiliary sensing unit is installed on the suction unit itself to act as an intermediary detection element. This auxiliary sensor specifically monitors the area in front of the protruding suction unit, eliminating the blind spot created by the protrusion. The main sensing unit continues to provide overall navigation sensing, while the auxiliary unit fills the detection gap, allowing the suction unit to protrude for better performance without creating unseen obstacles
3Object-generated harmful factors
If the HEPA filter is integrated into the cleaner body, then the filtration is effective, but the filter replacement requires complex disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The HEPA filter is segmented from the main cleaner body and integrated into the removable dust container assembly. This segmentation allows the filter to remain integrated with a functional unit (the dust container) that can be easily detached as a complete assembly. Users can remove the entire dust container with the filter intact for maintenance, eliminating the need for complex disassembly of the cleaner body while maintaining effective filtration
4Reliability
If the dust container has a complex coupling structure, then the assembly is secure, but the assembly and disassembly become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The complex multi-step coupling structure is replaced by extracting the essential securing function and implementing it through simple elastic hooks that engage with corresponding slots. This extraction of the core function (secure attachment) from the complex structure allows the dust container to be firmly fixed during operation while enabling easy one-handed assembly and disassembly by simply pressing the release mechanism
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
Enhances suction efficiency, reduces collision risks, provides comprehensive obstacle detection, and simplifies maintenance by ensuring easy assembly and filter replacement, leading to more effective and user-friendly operation.
Implementation Method 1
a flow separating part extending downwardly inclined along the inner circumference of the dust container
Data Source
AI summary
A robot cleaner comprising: a cleaner body including a dust container accommodation part formed to be recessed toward the front from the rear thereof; a suction unit mounted in the cleaner body to suck air containing dust; a dust container accommodated in the dust container accommodation part, the dust container collecting dust filtered from sucked air; and an exhaust port formed at an end portion of one rear side of the cleaner body, which surrounds the dust container accommodation part, to discharge filtered air to the outside, the exhaust port disposed along the height direction of the cleaner body.