Robot cleaner
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robot cleaners face inconvenience in detaching the cleaning module from the cleaner main body due to mechanical coupling structures like hooks, and there is a need for a structure that prevents incorrect insertion and allows for different cleaning modes based on module attachment.
Innovation Solution
A detachable connection system using magnetic forces between the cleaner main body and cleaning module, with annular facing surfaces and terminal portions, and an asymmetric accommodating portion to prevent reverse insertion, and a hall sensor to detect magnetic changes for mode switching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical coupling structure such as a hook is used to connect the cleaning module to the cleaner main body, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the user finds it inconvenient to detach the cleaning module and must bend their upper body to attach or separate the module
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical coupling structure (hook) with a magnetic coupling structure. The cleaning module and cleaner main body are connected through magnetic attraction between magnets positioned on both components, eliminating the need for mechanical interlocking parts like hooks. This substitution maintains secure connection while allowing easy attachment and detachment by simply bringing components close together for magnetic engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is segmented into separate magnetic components positioned on the cleaner main body and cleaning module respectively. The magnets are distributed at multiple positions to create a modular magnetic field that provides both secure holding force and easy release capability, allowing the user to detach the module without complex mechanical operations.
2Reliability
If the connection portion is located at a lower portion of the cleaner main body to achieve stable connection, then the connection is secure, but the user has to attach or separate the cleaning module with bending their upper body
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric positioning of magnetic components and connection elements. The magnetic coupling system is designed with non-uniform distribution of magnets and asymmetric arrangement of connection portions, allowing the connection to be made at an ergonomically favorable position while maintaining stable magnetic attraction. This asymmetric design enables secure connection without requiring the user to bend their upper body.
3Ease of operation
If a simple connection structure is used to facilitate detachment, then ease of operation is improved, but the ability to prevent incorrect insertion is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling system incorporates asymmetric magnetic pole arrangements and non-uniform magnetic field distribution. The magnets are positioned and oriented such that correct alignment produces strong magnetic attraction, while incorrect insertion attempts result in weak attraction or repulsion. This asymmetric magnetic configuration prevents wrong-direction insertion while maintaining easy detachment through simple magnetic engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling system provides immediate magnetic feedback to guide correct insertion. When the cleaning module is approached in the correct orientation, the magnetic attraction force increases progressively, guiding the user into proper alignment. Incorrect orientations produce insufficient magnetic force or repulsion, providing feedback that prevents wrong insertion while maintaining operational simplicity.
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
Facilitates easy detachment of the cleaning module without mechanical alignment, prevents incorrect insertion, and allows for different cleaning modes based on attachment configurations.
Implementation Method 1
The first and second terminal portions, respectively, are attached to each other by magnetic force
Implementation Method 2
a hall sensor to detect magnetic changes for mode switching
Data Source
AI summary
A robot cleaner includes a cleaner main body including a first connection duct, and a cleaning module including a second connection duct detachably coupled to the first connection duct to perform a dust suction function or a mopping function. The first and second connection ducts include a first facing surface and a second facing surface, respectively. The first and second facing surfaces face each other when the cleaning module is coupled to the cleaner main body. The first and second facing surfaces are formed in an annular shape to surround flow paths of the first and second connection ducts, respectively, and the first and second facing surfaces include a first terminal portion and a second terminal portion, respectively, which are attached to each other by a magnetic force.