Method for controlling cleaner
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum cleaner control methods struggle to automatically distinguish between different types of nozzles using the same type of motor without separate sensing means, leading to difficulties in accurately sensing and selecting the appropriate operation scheme for the fan motor based on the connected nozzle.
Innovation Solution
A control method that analyzes the starting current profile of the nozzle motor by applying a voltage controlled in a fixed pulse width modulation (PWM) scheme, using the difference in revolutions per minute, speed reduction ratios, and the presence of an auxiliary controller to differentiate between nozzles, allowing for automatic sensing and selection of the appropriate operation scheme.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current characteristic analysis is used to distinguish nozzle types, then different motor types can be distinguished, but separate sensing means are required and current value deviation is large when motors of the same type are used
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle motor itself serves as the sensing means by analyzing its own starting current characteristics. The control unit detects nozzle type by measuring the current drawn by the nozzle motor during startup, eliminating the need for separate sensing devices. The motor's inherent electrical characteristics (current profile, inductance, resistance) become the identification signature for different nozzle types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent analyzes changes in current parameters (magnitude, rate of change, waveform characteristics) during motor startup to distinguish between different nozzle types. By monitoring how the current evolves over time during the starting phase, the system can identify unique electrical signatures of different nozzle motors without requiring additional hardware.
2Measurement precision
If separate sensing means such as current transducer are used to distinguish nozzles, then nozzle type can be identified, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The existing nozzle motor and control unit serve dual purposes: driving the motor and sensing the nozzle type. The control unit already present in the vacuum cleaner is repurposed to analyze current characteristics and identify nozzle types, eliminating the need for separate sensing devices like current transducers.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is designed to perform multiple functions: controlling the fan motor, managing power distribution, and detecting nozzle types through current analysis. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by consolidating sensing and control capabilities into a single unit rather than requiring dedicated separate components.
3Measurement precision
If current characteristic analysis is used without fixed PWM scheme, then motor type can be distinguished, but large deviation of current value occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies voltage to the nozzle motor in a fixed PWM (pulse width modulation) scheme with specific duty cycle and frequency parameters. This periodic voltage application creates consistent and repeatable current waveforms during startup, reducing variation in measured current values. The fixed PWM parameters ensure that the same nozzle type always produces the same current signature under identical testing conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs a preliminary sensing operation immediately after nozzle connection but before actual cleaning begins. During this preliminary phase, voltage is applied to the nozzle motor under controlled PWM conditions to capture the starting current characteristics. This preliminary action establishes a baseline measurement that is used for nozzle identification before the motor enters variable-speed operation during normal use.
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 automatic sensing and selection of the nozzle type without additional sensing means, reducing current value deviations and providing user convenience by accurately determining the type of nozzle and adjusting the fan motor operation accordingly.
Implementation Method 1
a voltage controlled in a fixed pulse width modulation (PWM) scheme
Implementation Method 2
a nozzle motor which provides power for rotation of the rotary cleaning portion
Implementation Method 3
a power transmitter which transmits power of the nozzle motor to the rotary cleaning portion
Data Source
Figure 1(a)~1(b)
Figure 2
Figure 3(a)~3(c)
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a control method for automatically detecting what kind of nozzle is a nozzle mounted on a cleaner by using different starting current profiles. The cleaner may include a suction unit for suctioning dust, and various nozzles which are detachable from the suction unit. The nozzle may include a rotation cleaning unit which is accommodated in the nozzle to clean a surface to be cleaned, and a nozzle driving unit for driving the rotation cleaning unit. The nozzle may exhibit different starting current profiles depending on the number of rotations or reduction ratio of the nozzle driving unit, or whether an auxiliary control unit is included.