Autonomous cleaning device having an optical sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing optical sensors in autonomous cleaning devices, such as robotic vacuums, face a trade-off between detection accuracy and leg strength due to the design of support columns, where thick columns obstruct detection light but thin columns are prone to deformation or breakage under weight or impact.
Innovation Solution
The optical sensor design features legs with inclined surfaces relative to the radial direction, allowing for improved detection accuracy while maintaining robustness by minimizing light obstruction and enhancing support strength without excessive widening, which could compromise detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the support columns are made thick to ensure strength and prevent deformation, then the structural strength and stability are improved, but the detection accuracy of the optical sensor deteriorates due to light obstruction
Solution Approach 1:
The support columns are designed with inclined surfaces instead of vertical ones, changing the geometric orientation from a standard radial configuration to an angled configuration. This dimensional change in surface orientation allows the columns to provide sufficient structural strength while minimizing the blocking of detection light, as the inclined surfaces create larger gaps between adjacent columns for light passage.
2Measurement precision
If the support columns are made thin to improve detection accuracy by reducing light obstruction, then the detection accuracy is improved, but the structural strength and reliability deteriorate, making columns prone to deformation or breakage
Solution Approach 1:
By changing the orientation of column surfaces from vertical to inclined relative to the radial direction, the design achieves better light passage without requiring thinner columns. The inclined geometry allows columns to maintain adequate thickness for structural reliability while still permitting sufficient light transmission for accurate detection.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the support columns are made thick to ensure robustness under weight and impact, then the structural stability is improved, but the passage of detection light is obstructed, reducing detection accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The inclined surface design changes the spatial arrangement of light-passing gaps between columns. This geometric transformation allows columns to maintain substantial thickness for stability and robustness while the angled orientation creates more effective light pathways, thereby preserving detection accuracy despite the increased column mass for stability.
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
This design enhances the detection accuracy of the optical sensor while ensuring the legs provide sufficient support, preventing deformation or breakage, thus maintaining effective navigation and cleaning performance.
Implementation Method 1
Detection light (e.g., infrared or visible light) emitted from the (rotating) light emitting unit passes through spaces between adjacent support columns and is radiated towards surrounding objects. Detection light reflected by one or more objects in the surrounding area passes (returns) through the spaces between adjacent support columns and enters (impinges upon) the light receiving unit.
Data Source
AI summary
An autonomous cleaning device (1), such as a robotic vacuum (1), has an optical sensor (50) that includes: a rotary body (51) configured to rotate relative to a main body (2) about a rotational axis (CX); a light-emitting device (61) provided on the rotary body; a light-receiving device (62) provided on the rotary body; a cover (52) disposed upward of the rotary body; and legs (70) disposed around the rotary body and supporting the cover. In a cross section orthogonal to the rotational axis, at least a portion of a surface of each of the legs is inclined with respect to a virtual radial line (RL) extending in the radial direction of the rotational axis.