Vacuum Cleaner Nozzle Detection Using Current Profile Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum cleaner control methods struggle to automatically sense and distinguish between different nozzles using the same type of motor, especially when they are connected or disconnected during use, without separate sensing means, and face challenges in accurately measuring current values due to large deviations.
Innovation Solution
A control method that analyzes the current profile of the nozzle connected to the vacuum cleaner using a fixed pulse width modulation (PWM) scheme to determine if a nozzle is removed or re-connected, and distinguishes between nozzles by analyzing starting current profiles based on motor type, revolutions per minute, and auxiliary controllers, without requiring additional sensing devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current characteristic analysis is used to distinguish nozzle types, then motor type differentiation is possible, but nozzles with the same motor type cannot be distinguished
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the current measurement process into multiple time points: initial current value at motor startup, and subsequent current values at predetermined time intervals. This temporal segmentation allows differentiation of nozzles with the same motor type based on their distinct current profiles over time, eliminating the need for additional sensing means.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from analyzing a single current characteristic dimension to analyzing current values across multiple time dimensions. By measuring current at startup and at subsequent time intervals, the system creates a temporal profile that adds a time dimension to the analysis, enabling distinction between nozzles with identical motors but different characteristics.
2Ease of operation
If nozzle replacement occurs during vacuum cleaner operation, then user convenience is improved, but the newly connected nozzle cannot be distinguished
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the control unit continuously monitors current values from the nozzle motor at predetermined time intervals and automatically adjusts operating parameters based on the detected nozzle type. This closed-loop feedback ensures that when a nozzle is replaced during operation, the system重新 measures the current profile and adapts to the new nozzle's characteristics, maintaining optimal performance without user intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary current measurements at predetermined time intervals after nozzle connection to proactively identify the nozzle type before operation begins. This preliminary detection allows the control unit to pre-adjust operating parameters, ensuring the newly connected nozzle is properly characterized and configured before full operation commences.
3Device complexity
If multiple nozzles with same motor type are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but current value deviation increases making distinction impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamic measurement by taking current values at multiple time points rather than a single static measurement. The initial current value at motor startup and subsequent values at predetermined intervals create a dynamic profile that captures the temporal evolution of current consumption. This dynamic approach compensates for deviations in absolute current values, allowing precise differentiation based on the pattern of change over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary measurements of current values at predetermined time intervals after nozzle connection to establish a baseline profile. This preliminary action allows the control unit to learn and adapt to each specific nozzle's characteristics, reducing the impact of current value deviations by comparing against the established profile rather than using fixed thresholds.
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 adjustment of nozzle operation based on type, allowing for convenient user interaction and ensuring proper operation regardless of nozzle changes during use, without the need for separate sensing means, by accurately measuring current values and profiles.
Implementation Method 1
applies a voltage controlled in the same pulse width modulation (PWM) scheme to the nozzle motor
Data Source
Figure 1(a)~1(b)
Figure 2
Figure 3(a)~3(c)
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a control method capable of, by using a current value of a nozzle, determining whether a nozzle is separated from a vacuum cleaner and whether the nozzle is reconnected to the vacuum cleaner after separation. To this end, a vacuum cleaner may comprise a nozzle connectable to a suction unit for suctioning dusts. The nozzle may comprise a rotary cleaning unit for applying pressure to a cleaning target surface so as to separate a foreign substance therefrom, and a nozzle motor for driving the rotary cleaning unit. In order to drive the nozzle, a voltage having been controlled by a pulse width modulation (PWM) method is applied, and a measurement unit included in the vacuum cleaner may measure a current value of the nozzle, the current value depending on the applied voltage.