Self-propelled device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional window cleaning robots can only detect bumping into edges through resistance, leading to potential air leakage and loss of suction, which prevents secure cleaning due to the instability of the suction disk.
Innovation Solution
A self-propelled device with a body featuring a first and second space, a walking module, an air extraction module, and an air pressure sensor, along with a bumper structure that can close and open the second space to prevent air leakage and maintain suction by detecting changes in air pressure when approaching an edge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a conventional cleaning robot uses only resistance sensing to detect edges, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of suction attachment deteriorates due to air leakage after bumping
Solution Approach 1:
The suction disk is divided into two independent spaces: a first space for primary suction and a second space for edge detection. The second space is sealed and communicates with the first space only through a narrow connecting passage, allowing independent functionality of each space while maintaining overall system integration.
Solution Approach 2:
A bumper structure acts as an intermediary element between the cleaning robot and the edge. When the bumper contacts an edge, it triggers the opening of the second space, which then communicates with the external environment through the connecting passage, providing indirect detection of edge proximity without direct impact to the main suction system.
2Manufacturing precision
If the suction disk is made rigid to maintain shape, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the adaptability to edge conditions deteriorates as it cannot flex to prevent air leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The suction disk is segmented into two functional zones: a rigid first space for maintaining suction force and a second space for edge detection. This segmentation allows the first space to maintain manufacturing precision while the second space provides adaptability through its opening/closing mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The second space is designed to dynamically open and close based on edge detection. The bumper structure enables this dynamic behavior, allowing the system to adapt to different edge conditions while the first space maintains its rigid structure for consistent suction performance.
3Measurement precision
If the second space volume is made larger to improve detection sensitivity, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional sealing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The second space is designed with localized sealing only where necessary at the periphery of the suction disk, rather than requiring complete sealing of the entire suction system. This localized approach improves detection sensitivity while minimizing the complexity increase from additional sealing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The second space is pre-configured as a sealed detection chamber before operation. The bumper structure and connecting passage are pre-arranged to enable automatic opening/closing functionality, eliminating the need for complex real-time sealing adjustments during 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
The device effectively prevents air leakage and maintains suction by detecting air pressure changes, allowing for secure cleaning and preventing falls by adjusting its movement in real-time.
Implementation Method 1
an air extraction module, arranged on the body, being in communication with the first space
Implementation Method 2
an air pressure sensor, arranged on the body, and disposed at one end of the second space
Data Source
AI summary
A self-propelled device includes a body, a walking module, an air extraction module, an air pressure sensor and at least one bumper structure. The body is defined with a first space and a second space in communication with the first space, wherein the volume of the second space is smaller than the volume of the first space and the second space is closer to a side of the body than the first space. The walking module is adjacent to the body. The air extraction module is arranged on the body and is in communication with the first space. The air pressure sensor is arranged on the body and disposed at one end of the second space. The bumper structure is relatively movably arranged on the body, and is configured to close the second space when located at a first position and open the second space when located at a second position. The self-propelled device is for walking on a board surface.