Robotic Vacuum Hinging Handle for Obstacle Contact Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Robotic vacuum cleaners face challenges in detecting physical contact with stationary objects while being portable and maintaining efficient navigation around obstacles.
Innovation Solution
A hinging handle that pivots between an upright position for carrying and a second position for detection, equipped with sensor means such as micro switches to detect forces and movements, allowing for control signal generation to adjust the vacuum cleaner's path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the vacuum cleaner is designed with a hinging handle that can pivot between upright and detection positions, then the vacuum cleaner achieves portability and effective obstacle detection, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle serves multiple functions: it enables manual carrying when in the upright position and acts as an obstacle detection member when in the detection position. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by integrating the detection capability into an existing structural component rather than adding separate detection equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle structure itself provides the detection function through its ability to pivot and make contact with obstacles. The sensor means mounted on the handle detect forces exerted during contact, allowing the handle to serve its own structural purpose while simultaneously performing detection without requiring entirely separate systems.
2Measurement precision
If sensor means are mounted on the handle to detect forces during operation, then obstacle detection precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor means are integrated into the handle structure rather than being separate components. The sensors detect forces exerted on the handle during obstacle contact, merging the detection function with the existing handle mechanism and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining detection precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the handle extends outside the body in detection position, then obstacle detection effectiveness improves, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is designed to be dynamic rather than fixed, capable of pivoting between upright and detection positions. This allows the handle to adapt its configuration based on operational needs - extending outward for detection when required and retracting for easier handling during transport or storage, thus resolving the contradiction between detection coverage and ease of operation.
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
Enables the robotic vacuum cleaner to effectively detect and avoid stationary objects during operation, ensuring safe navigation and efficient cleaning while being portable.
Implementation Method 1
sensor means can detect forces exerted on the handle when the handle is in said second position
Implementation Method 2
the handle can be maintained by springs or other elastic means in said second position, whereby it can be moved a little against the force of said springs or other elastic means
Implementation Method 3
the sensor means can detect movements of the handle when the handle is in said second position
Data Source
AI summary
A robotic vacuum cleaner comprising sensor means for detecting physical contact with stationary objects in the environment of the vacuum cleaner. The vacuum cleaner comprises a handle (1) for carrying the vacuum cleaner by hand (3). The handle (1) can be in a second position whereby the handle (1) is located close to the body (4) of the vacuum cleaner, whereby the sensor means detect forces exerted on the handle (1) during operation of the vacuum cleaner.