Robot Cleaner Suction Layout for Obstacle Sensing and Easy Filter Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current robot cleaners face challenges such as reduced suction force, difficulty in separating 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 fields of view to detect obstacles, and a modular dust container system with easy 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, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position. It can protrude forward during cleaning to maximize suction efficiency, and retract when approaching obstacles detected by sensors, thus resolving the contradiction between maintaining high suction force and avoiding collisions
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:
Additional sensing units are installed on the suction unit itself to act as intermediaries for obstacle detection. These sensors mounted on the protruding portion directly detect obstacles in the previously blind area, allowing the suction unit to maintain its forward position for optimal suction while eliminating the sensing blind spot
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the HEPA filter is integrated into the cleaner body, then the filtration is effective, but the filter replacement requires disassembly of the cleaner body
Solution Approach 1:
The HEPA filter is segmented from the main cleaner body and integrated into the removable dust container assembly. This allows the filter to remain integrated with a functional unit for effective filtration, while enabling easy access and replacement by simply detaching the dust container, eliminating the need to disassemble the cleaner body
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 provides secure assembly through the elastic retention force while allowing 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.
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 wheel unit and a controller controlling driving of the wheel unit; a suction unit disposed to protrude from the cleaner body, the suction unit sucking air containing dust; and a sensing unit disposed at the front of the cleaner body in which the suction unit is disposed, wherein at least one portion of the sensing unit is disposed to overlap with the suction unit in the top-bottom direction of the cleaner body.