Self-Propelled Cleaning Robot for Tunnel Drainage Pipes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drainage cleaning systems for tunnel structures are limited by the need for manual intervention, restricted length due to cable or hose limitations, and poor data transmission capabilities, leading to inefficiencies and safety concerns during operation.
Innovation Solution
A self-propelled cleaning robot and charging station system that allows for independent operation, extended cleaning length, and continuous data transmission to a server, eliminating the need for manual intervention and enhancing cleaning efficiency by using wireless communication and multiple charging stations spaced at optimal intervals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If hydrodynamic devices with hoses or cables are used for cleaning, then the cleaning function is achieved, but the length of use is limited and manual intervention is required
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning device is equipped with a self-propelled mechanism that allows it to move autonomously through the drainage pipe without requiring external hoses or cables. The device propels itself using internal propulsion mechanisms, enabling it to clean extended distances without manual intervention or external power transmission lines.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention removes the dependency on external hoses and cables by extracting the power and control systems into the device itself. The cleaning device becomes self-contained with its own propulsion system, battery power source, and control electronics, eliminating the physical constraints imposed by external connections.
2Reliability
If manual intervention is used to introduce cleaning devices, then the cleaning function is achieved, but operational safety is compromised and downtime occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning device autonomously navigates the drainage pipe system using onboard sensors and propulsion mechanisms. It automatically detects obstacles, adjusts its cleaning actions, and returns to charging stations without requiring human operators to enter or access the tunnel system, thereby eliminating safety risks and operational downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces manual mechanical operation with automated robotic systems. The cleaning device uses electronic control systems, sensors, and automated propulsion to perform cleaning tasks that previously required human operators to physically introduce and manage cleaning equipment.
3Length of moving object
If cleaning devices are limited by cable length, then the system is simpler, but the cleaning range is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the power source and control systems from external cables into the cleaning device itself. The device carries its own battery pack and electronic control systems, allowing it to operate independently over extended distances without being constrained by cable length or requiring complex external power transmission infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning device employs dynamic propulsion mechanisms that allow it to move flexibly through the drainage pipe system. The device can adjust its speed, direction, and propulsion method based on real-time conditions, enabling it to navigate complex pipe geometries and reach distant locations without fixed infrastructure constraints.
4Loss of information
If data transmission requires manual retrieval, then the system is simpler, but information availability is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning device incorporates onboard sensors and data logging capabilities that continuously monitor cleaning effectiveness, pipe conditions, and device status. This data is automatically transmitted wirelessly to remote monitoring systems in real-time, enabling immediate feedback on cleaning performance and prompt response to any issues detected during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces manual data retrieval mechanisms with wireless electronic communication systems. The cleaning device uses onboard processors, memory storage, and wireless transmitters to automatically send operational data and diagnostic information to remote systems, eliminating the need for physical data collection and enabling continuous information availability.
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
The system enables continuous, self-sufficient drainage cleaning without human intervention, improving operational safety and efficiency by allowing the robot to charge and transmit data autonomously, thereby reducing downtime and deposit accumulation.
Implementation Method 1
the charging station is designed for charging the battery of a self-propelled cleaning robot located in the drainage pipe
Data Source
AI summary
A drainage cleaning system is provided for a tunnel system, where the drainage cleaning system includes a drainage pipe, where the drainage cleaning system includes a charging station on the drainage pipe, and where the charging station is operable to charge the battery of a self-propelled cleaning robot located in the drainage pipe and to allow measuring data recorded by the cleaning robot to be sent to a server arranged outside of the drainage cleaning system.