EP4046557B1 - Robot vacuum cleaner equipped with at least one fixed lateral cleaning element - Google Patents

Robot vacuum cleaner equipped with at least one fixed lateral cleaning element Download PDF

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Publication number
EP4046557B1
EP4046557B1 EP22157108.6A EP22157108A EP4046557B1 EP 4046557 B1 EP4046557 B1 EP 4046557B1 EP 22157108 A EP22157108 A EP 22157108A EP 4046557 B1 EP4046557 B1 EP 4046557B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
cleaning
vacuum cleaner
main body
robot vacuum
cleaning part
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP22157108.6A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP4046557C0 (en
EP4046557A1 (en
Inventor
Laurent Delair
Mickael BOILLET
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
SEB SA
Original Assignee
SEB SA
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Publication date
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Publication of EP4046557A1 publication Critical patent/EP4046557A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP4046557C0 publication Critical patent/EP4046557C0/en
Publication of EP4046557B1 publication Critical patent/EP4046557B1/en
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Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
    • A47L9/02—Nozzles
    • A47L9/06—Nozzles with fixed, e.g. adjustably fixed brushes or the like
    • A47L9/0606—Nozzles with fixed, e.g. adjustably fixed brushes or the like rigidly anchored brushes, combs, lips or pads
    • A47L9/062—Rigidly anchored edge brushes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
    • A47L9/02—Nozzles
    • A47L9/06—Nozzles with fixed, e.g. adjustably fixed brushes or the like
    • A47L9/068—Nozzles combined with a different cleaning side, e.g. duplex nozzles or dual purpose nozzles
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
    • A47L9/02—Nozzles
    • A47L9/04—Nozzles with driven brushes or agitators
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
    • A47L11/24—Floor-sweeping machines, motor-driven
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
    • A47L11/32—Carpet-sweepers
    • A47L11/33—Carpet-sweepers having means for storing dirt
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
    • A47L11/40—Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups A47L11/02 - A47L11/38, or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers, levers
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
    • A47L11/40—Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups A47L11/02 - A47L11/38, or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers, levers
    • A47L11/4011—Regulation of the cleaning machine by electric means; Control systems and remote control systems therefor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
    • A47L11/40—Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups A47L11/02 - A47L11/38, or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers, levers
    • A47L11/4013—Contaminants collecting devices, i.e. hoppers, tanks or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
    • A47L11/40—Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups A47L11/02 - A47L11/38, or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers, levers
    • A47L11/4036—Parts or details of the surface treating tools
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
    • A47L11/40—Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups A47L11/02 - A47L11/38, or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers, levers
    • A47L11/4036—Parts or details of the surface treating tools
    • A47L11/4041—Roll shaped surface treating tools
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
    • A47L11/40—Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups A47L11/02 - A47L11/38, or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers, levers
    • A47L11/4072—Arrangement of castors or wheels
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
    • A47L11/40—Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups A47L11/02 - A47L11/38, or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers, levers
    • A47L11/4094—Accessories to be used in combination with conventional vacuum-cleaning devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L5/00—Structural features of suction cleaners
    • A47L5/12—Structural features of suction cleaners with power-driven air-pumps or air-compressors, e.g. driven by motor vehicle engine vacuum
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
    • A47L9/02—Nozzles
    • A47L9/04—Nozzles with driven brushes or agitators
    • A47L9/0461—Dust-loosening tools, e.g. agitators, brushes
    • A47L9/0466—Rotating tools
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
    • A47L9/02—Nozzles
    • A47L9/04—Nozzles with driven brushes or agitators
    • A47L9/0461—Dust-loosening tools, e.g. agitators, brushes
    • A47L9/0466—Rotating tools
    • A47L9/0477—Rolls
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
    • A47L9/02—Nozzles
    • A47L9/04—Nozzles with driven brushes or agitators
    • A47L9/0461—Dust-loosening tools, e.g. agitators, brushes
    • A47L9/0488—Combinations or arrangements of several tools, e.g. edge cleaning tools
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
    • A47L9/02—Nozzles
    • A47L9/06—Nozzles with fixed, e.g. adjustably fixed brushes or the like
    • A47L9/0606—Nozzles with fixed, e.g. adjustably fixed brushes or the like rigidly anchored brushes, combs, lips or pads
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L9/00—Details or accessories of suction cleaners, e.g. mechanical means for controlling the suction or for effecting pulsating action; Storing devices specially adapted to suction cleaners or parts thereof; Carrying-vehicles specially adapted for suction cleaners
    • A47L9/10—Filters; Dust separators; Dust removal; Automatic exchange of filters
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L2201/00—Robotic cleaning machines, i.e. with automatic control of the travelling movement or the cleaning operation

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of cleaning devices of the vacuum cleaner type and, more particularly to the field of robot vacuum cleaners which can move independently on a surface to be cleaned and make it possible to suck up dust and waste present on the surface to be cleaned.
  • the present invention can for example be tiles, parquet, laminate, carpet or carpet.
  • Vacuum cleaning robots more commonly known as robot vacuum cleaners, have become common nowadays, allowing complete cleaning of a home's surfaces without any user assistance as soon as these surfaces are flat, i.e. on the same level. They thus offer a considerable saving of time to the users to practice other activities.
  • the document KR2006 0112947 discloses a robotic vacuum cleaner comprising: a main body having an underside which is configured to face a surface to be cleaned, a suction opening opening into the underside of the main body and extending transversely to a main direction of movement of the robot vacuum cleaner, and a receiving housing fluidly connected to the suction opening, and including a rotatable cleaning brush rotatably mounted in the receiving housing about an axis of rotation which extends transversely to the main direction of movement of the robot vacuum cleaner, and comprising a first side cleaning member mounted on a front part of the main body and located adjacent to a first side edge of the main body, the first side cleaning member having a first part which is flexible, where the first side cleaning member is fixed relative to the main body, and where the first cleaning part is configured to direct waste, which comes into contact with the first cleaning part when the robot vacuum cleaner moves in the main direction of travel, towards the suction opening.
  • the first and second lateral cleaning brushes make it possible to project waste, present for example near a wall along which the robot vacuum cleaner moves, away from the wall and in particular on the path of movement of the robot vacuum cleaner so that the latter can suck up this waste.
  • the first and second side cleaning brushes wear out quickly and must therefore be replaced regularly.
  • the lengths of the main cleaning brush and the suction opening are necessarily limited (except to increase the bulkiness of the robot vacuum cleaner, which is not desired), which limits the width of the surface that can be cleaned by the robot vacuum cleaner during each of its movements and therefore increases the cleaning time of a given surface .
  • Such an arrangement of the mechanical components belonging to the drive mechanism also makes it necessary to separate the main cleaning brush and the suction opening from the side edges of the main body, which makes it difficult to clean the surfaces located in the immediate vicinity of the obstacles. or walls encountered by the robot vacuum cleaner.
  • first and second side cleaning brushes are ineffective on carpets and rugs.
  • only the main cleaning brush can beat the fibers of a carpet or rug and suck up the dust retained by these fibers.
  • cables, laces or other elongated and flexible elements are likely to wrap around the first and second side cleaning brushes, which can adversely affect the operation and integrity of the robot vacuum cleaner.
  • the present invention aims to remedy these drawbacks.
  • the technical problem underlying the invention consists in particular in providing a robot vacuum cleaner which is of simple and economical structure, while allowing efficient, rapid and easy cleaning of a surface to be cleaned.
  • the first side cleaning member is fixed with respect to the main body, and the first cleaning part is configured to direct waste, which comes into contact with the first cleaning part when the robot vacuum cleaner moves in the main direction of movement , towards the suction opening.
  • Such a configuration of the first lateral cleaning element which is passive, makes it possible on the one hand to substantially simplify the robot vacuum cleaner, since no drive mechanism capable of driving the first lateral cleaning element is to be provided, and on the other hand to significantly reduce the power consumption of the robot vacuum cleaner and the frequency of replacement of the first side cleaning element.
  • the costs of manufacturing and using the robot vacuum cleaner according to the present invention are therefore substantially limited.
  • the vacuum cleaner robot since the first cleaning part is configured to direct towards the suction opening wastes which are encountered by the first cleaning part when the robot vacuum cleaner moves in the main direction of movement, the vacuum cleaner robot according to the present invention ensures effective cleaning of a surface to be cleaned, including proximity to obstacles encountered by the robot vacuum cleaner.
  • the robot vacuum cleaner object of the present invention is designed, like the majority of robot vacuum cleaners, to effectively clean the floors when it moves in a direction of movement parallel to the longitudinal axis of the robot vacuum cleaner and in a direction of predetermined displacement.
  • the direction of movement parallel to the longitudinal axis of the robot vacuum cleaner and the predetermined direction of movement define the aforementioned main direction of movement of the robot vacuum cleaner which is the subject of the present invention.
  • a front part or a rear part of the main body of the robot vacuum cleaner is identified with respect to the main moving direction of the robot vacuum cleaner.
  • the robot vacuum cleaner may further have one or more of the following features, taken alone or in combination.
  • the robot vacuum cleaner further comprises a second side cleaning element mounted on the front part of the main body and located in the vicinity of a second side edge of the main body, the second cleaning element being fixed relative to the main body and comprising a second cleaning part which is flexible, the first and second cleaning parts being configured to direct waste, which comes into contact with the first and second cleaning parts when the robot vacuum cleaner moves in the main direction of travel, towards the suction opening.
  • the distance between a front edge of the first cleaning part and the median longitudinal plane of the main body is greater than the distance between a rear edge of the first part cleaning area and the median longitudinal plane of the main body.
  • the distance between a front edge of the second cleaning part and the median longitudinal plane of the main body is greater than the distance between a rear edge of the second cleaning part and the median longitudinal plane of the main body.
  • the first and second cleaning parts converge towards each other in the direction of a rear part of the main body.
  • the front edges of the first and second cleaning parts are separated by a first separation distance and the rear edges of the first and second cleaning parts are separated by a second separation distance which is less than the first separation distance.
  • Such a configuration of the first and second cleaning parts promotes the guiding of the waste encountered by the latter towards the suction opening, which further improves the cleaning efficiency of the robot vacuum cleaner according to the present invention.
  • Such a configuration of the first and second cleaning parts also makes it possible to direct the a Vogellic flows under the robot vacuum cleaner from the front of the robot vacuum cleaner towards the suction opening, which promotes the suction of the waste encountered by the robot vacuum cleaner.
  • the first lateral cleaning element is elongated and extends generally in a first direction of extension.
  • the second side cleaning element is elongated and extends globally in a second direction of extension.
  • the first and second directions of extension converge towards each other in the direction of the rear part of the main body.
  • the first cleaning part is twisted along the first direction of extension.
  • the second cleaning part is twisted along the second direction of extension.
  • Such a configuration of the first and second cleaning parts makes it possible to vary the inclination of the first and second cleaning parts with respect to the horizontal, in particular to obtain a high opening angle of the first and second cleaning parts and this with first and second cleaning parts of reduced lengths.
  • These arrangements make it possible in particular to bring the rotating cleaning brush closer to the front edge of the main body and also to bring the ends of the rotating cleaning brush closer to the side edges of the main body, and therefore to further improve the cleaning efficiency of the robot vacuum cleaner according to the present invention.
  • the first cleaning part has a generally flat shape.
  • the first cleaning part can also have the form of a wall or a strip.
  • the second cleaning part has a generally flat shape, or has the shape of a wall or a strip.
  • the first and second cleaning parts are arranged symmetrically with respect to the median longitudinal plane of the main body.
  • At least a portion of the first cleaning part is inclined with respect to the horizontal and the vertical when the robot vacuum cleaner rests, in particular by its driving wheels, on a horizontal surface .
  • at least a portion of the second cleaning part is inclined with respect to the horizontal and the vertical when the robot vacuum cleaner rests, in particular by its driving wheels, on a horizontal surface.
  • the first cleaning part has an inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which varies along the first cleaning part.
  • the second cleaning part has an inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which varies along the second cleaning part.
  • the first cleaning part has an inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which increases in the direction of the rear edge of the first cleaning part.
  • the second cleaning part has an inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which increases towards the rear edge of the second cleaning part.
  • the first cleaning part comprises a first front wall portion which is inclined downwards and laterally towards the outside of the main body.
  • the second cleaning part comprises a second front wall portion which is inclined downwards and laterally towards the outside of the main body.
  • the first front wall portion is formed by a plurality of bristles or tufts of bristles or is formed from a flexible material.
  • the second front wall portion is formed by a plurality of bristles or tufts of bristles or is formed from a flexible material.
  • the first front wall portion is inclined with respect to the horizontal by an angle of inclination comprised between 30 and 60°, and advantageously between 35 and 45°.
  • the second front wall portion is inclined with respect to the horizontal by an angle of inclination comprised between 30 and 60°, and advantageously between 35 and 45°.
  • the first cleaning part comprises a first rear wall portion which is inclined with respect to the horizontal by an angle of inclination comprised between 70 and 90°, advantageously between 80 and 90 °.
  • the second cleaning part comprises a second rear wall portion which is inclined with respect to the horizontal by an angle of inclination comprised between 70 and 90°, advantageously between 80 and 90°.
  • the first wall portion rear is angled downward and laterally outward from the main body.
  • the second rear wall portion is inclined downwards and laterally towards the outside of the main body.
  • the first rear wall portion is set back from the first side edge of the main body.
  • the second rear wall portion is set back from the second side edge of the main body.
  • At least a portion of the first cleaning part protrudes laterally with respect to the first side edge of the main body.
  • at least a portion of the second cleaning part protrudes laterally with respect to the second side edge of the main body.
  • the first front wall portion projects laterally relative to the first side edge of the main body.
  • the second front wall portion projects laterally relative to the second side edge of the main body.
  • the first side cleaning element comprises a first fixing part which is fixed in a first receiving groove provided on the main body, the first cleaning part being supported by the first fixing part .
  • the second side cleaning element comprises a second fixing part which is fixed in a second receiving groove provided on the main body, the second cleaning part being supported by the second fixing part.
  • the first receiving groove extends globally along a first groove direction.
  • the first groove direction is inclined relative to the median longitudinal plane of the main body by an angle of inclination of between 20 and 40°, for example between 25 and 35°, and advantageously of around 30°.
  • the second receiving groove extends globally along a second groove direction.
  • the second groove direction is inclined relative to the median longitudinal plane of the main body by an angle of inclination of between 20 and 40°, for example between 25 and 35°, and advantageously of around 30°
  • the first and second groove directions converge towards each other in the direction of the rear part of the main body.
  • the first and/or the second groove direction(s) extend(s) substantially parallel to the median longitudinal plane of the main body.
  • the first and/or second receiving groove(s) is/are provided on the underside of the main body or on elements which make up the main body, and for example on a front bumper of the robot vacuum cleaner.
  • the first receiving groove is twisted along the first groove direction.
  • the second receiving groove is twisted along the second groove direction.
  • each of the first and second receiving grooves has a bottom wall which is flat or twisted.
  • the robot vacuum cleaner comprises at least a first deformation surface configured to deform the first side cleaning element, and for example the first part of cleaning, such that at least a portion of the first cleaning part is inclined with respect to the horizontal and the vertical when the robot vacuum cleaner rests on a horizontal surface.
  • the robot vacuum cleaner comprises at least a second deformation surface configured to deform the second side cleaning element, and for example the second cleaning part, such that at least a portion of the second cleaning part is tilted from the horizontal and vertical when the Robotic Cleaner rests on a horizontal surface.
  • the at least one first deformation surface is configured to deform the first side cleaning element, and for example the first cleaning part, such that the first cleaning part has a inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which varies along the first cleaning part.
  • the at least one second deformation surface is configured to deform the second lateral cleaning element, and for example the second cleaning part, such that the second cleaning part has an inclination, with respect to the 'horizontal, which varies along the second cleaning part.
  • the main body comprises a first deformation member, such as a deformation rib, comprising the at least one first deformation surface.
  • the first deformation member can for example be provided on the underside of the main body.
  • the first receiving groove comprises the at least one first deformation surface.
  • the second receiving groove comprises the at least one second deformation surface.
  • the at least one first deformation surface is formed by the bottom wall and/or at least one of the side walls of the first receiving groove.
  • the at least one second deformation surface is formed by the bottom wall and/or at least one of the side walls of the second receiving groove.
  • the first side cleaning element is located forward of the axis of rotation of the rotating cleaning brush, and advantageously forward of the front edge of the opening of suction.
  • the second side cleaning element is located forward of the axis of rotation of the rotating cleaning brush, and advantageously forward of the front edge of the opening of suction.
  • the first side cleaning element is set back from the front edge of the main body.
  • the second side cleaning element is set back from the front edge of the main body.
  • the first side cleaning element projects from the underside of the main body by a first projection height which is substantially constant along the first side cleaning element.
  • the second side cleaning element projects from the underside of the main body by a second projection height which is substantially constant along the second side cleaning element and which is substantially identical to the first projection height.
  • the first side cleaning element is formed by a first side cleaning brush.
  • the second side cleaning element is formed by a second side cleaning brush.
  • the first cleaning part comprises at least a first row of bristles or tufts of bristles.
  • the second cleaning part comprises at least a second row of bristles or tufts of bristles.
  • the first cleaning part is formed by a first cleaning blade which is elastically deformable.
  • the second cleaning part is formed by a second cleaning strip which is elastically deformable.
  • the main body has, seen from above, a general D shape.
  • the first cleaning part has a first lower elongated edge which extends the entire length of the first cleaning part and which is configured to be in contact with a surface to be cleaned when the robot vacuum rests on said surface to be cleaned.
  • the second cleaning part comprises a second lower elongated edge which extends over the entire length of the second cleaning part and which is configured to be in contact with the surface to be cleaned when the robot vacuum cleaner rests on said area to be cleaned
  • the rear end of the first lower elongated edge and a first end of the rotating cleaning brush are located substantially at the same distance from the first side edge of the main body.
  • the rear end of the second lower elongated edge and a second end of the rotating cleaning brush are located substantially at the same distance from the second side edge of the main body.
  • the rear end of the first lower elongated edge is located in the vicinity of a first end of the rotating cleaning brush.
  • the rear end of the second lower elongated edge is located adjacent a second end of the rotating cleaning brush.
  • the rear end of the first lower elongated edge is located in the vicinity of a first lateral edge of the suction opening.
  • the rear end of the second lower elongated edge is located in the vicinity of a second lateral edge of the suction opening.
  • the axis of rotation of the rotating cleaning brush is substantially horizontal when the robot vacuum cleaner rests on a horizontal surface.
  • the terms “horizontal”, “vertical”, “lower”, “upper”, “height”, “top”, “top” used to describe the robot vacuum cleaner or the main body refer to the robot vacuum cleaner in a situation of use when it rests by its wheels on a floor to be cleaned which is flat and horizontal.
  • THE figures 1 to 12 represent a robot vacuum cleaner 2 configured to move autonomously over a surface to be cleaned.
  • the robot vacuum cleaner 2 comprises a main body 3 comprising a lower face 4 which is configured to be oriented towards the surface to be cleaned, and a suction opening 5 which opens into the lower face 4 of the body main 3.
  • the suction opening 5 is elongated and extends transversely, and more particularly perpendicularly, to a main direction of movement D of the robot vacuum cleaner 2.
  • the suction opening 5 has a overall rectangular shape, and thus comprises a front edge 5.1 and a rear edge 5.2 which are substantially parallel.
  • the main body 3 further comprises a receiving housing 6 which is fluidly connected to the suction opening 5.
  • the front part 31 of the main body 3 has, seen from above, a generally rectangular shape and the rear part 32 of the main body 3 has, seen from above, a generally semi-circular shape.
  • the main body 3 has, seen from above, a general shape of D.
  • the main body 3 could have, seen from above, any other shape, and for example a circular or rectangular shape.
  • the robotic vacuum cleaner 2 further comprises a rotating cleaning brush 7 rotatably mounted in the receiving housing 6 around an axis of rotation A which extends transversely, and more particularly perpendicularly, to the main direction of movement D
  • the axis of rotation A of the rotating cleaning brush 7 is substantially horizontal when the robot vacuum cleaner 2 rests on a horizontal surface.
  • the robotic vacuum cleaner 2 also comprises a drive mechanism (not visible in the figures) which is configured to rotate the rotating cleaning brush 7 around the axis of rotation A.
  • the robot vacuum cleaner 2 comprises two driving wheels 8 which are mounted so as to be able to rotate with respect to the main body 3, and which have substantially parallel axes of rotation B, and advantageously coincident.
  • the two driving wheels 8 are configured to project from the lower face 4 of the main body 3, and are arranged on either side of the median longitudinal plane P of the main body 3.
  • the two driving wheels 8 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the median longitudinal plane P of the main body 3.
  • the two drive wheels 8 are advantageously motorized independently of each other.
  • the robot vacuum cleaner 2 comprises two rotation drive mechanisms 9 housed in the main body 3 and each configured to drive a respective drive wheel in rotation by the two drive wheels 8.
  • Each rotation drive mechanism 9 comprises a drive motor coupled in rotation to the respective drive wheel and arranged for example in a respective side part of the main body 3 or in the rear part 32 of the main body 3.
  • the main body 3 can pivot left, right or on itself, move forward or backward.
  • the robot vacuum cleaner 2 comprises additional wheels 11 mounted free to rotate relative to the main body 3 and arranged on the front part 31 of the main body 3, and for example between a front edge 3.10 of the main body 3 and the front edge 5.1 of the suction opening 5.
  • the additional wheels are two in number and are arranged symmetrically with respect to the median longitudinal plane P of the main body 3.
  • the robot vacuum cleaner 2 further comprises a suction unit (not visible in the figures) which is housed in the main body 3.
  • the suction unit comprises an electric motor and a fan coupled to the electric motor to generate a flow of air through the suction opening 5 and the receiving housing.
  • the robot vacuum cleaner 2 also comprises a waste collection device (not visible in the figures) which is arranged upstream of the unit suction and which is crossed by the air flow generated by the fan when the robot vacuum cleaner 2 is in operation.
  • the robot vacuum cleaner 2 also comprises a power supply battery 15 configured to electrically supply the various electrical components housed in the main body 3.
  • the power supply battery 15 is rechargeable and is housed in the main body 3.
  • the robot vacuum cleaner 2 further comprises a control device 13 which is configured to control the operation of the robot vacuum cleaner 2, and in particular to control the movements of the main body 3 for example according to random or methodical movements.
  • the control device 13 is in particular configured to control the aforementioned rotation drive mechanisms based on data received from various sensors arranged on the main body 3, such as proximity sensors, contact sensors and/or fall.
  • the control device 13 can for example include an electronic card configured to receive and process these different data.
  • the robot vacuum cleaner 2 further comprises a transmitter/receiver 14 which is configured to communicate with a docking station configured to accommodate the robot vacuum cleaner 2, in particular during the recharging phases of the supply battery 15 of the latter.
  • the robotic vacuum cleaner 2 comprises a first side cleaning element 16 and a second side cleaning element 17 which are fixed with respect to the main body 3.
  • the first and second side cleaning elements 16, 17 are located on the front part 31 of the main body 3 and are arranged respectively in the vicinity of a first side edge 3.11 and a second side edge 3.12 of the main body 3.
  • the first and second side cleaning elements 16, 17 are located at the front of the front edge 5.1 of the suction opening 5, and are set back from the front edge 3.10 of the main body 3.
  • the first and second side cleaning elements 16, 17 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the median longitudinal plane P of the main body 3.
  • the first side cleaning element 16 projects from the lower face 4 of the main body 3 by a first projection height which is substantially constant along the first side cleaning element 16, and the second side cleaning element 17 protrudes from the lower face 4 of the main body 3 by a second protrusion height which is substantially constant along the second side cleaning element 17 and which is substantially identical to the first protrusion height.
  • the first and second lateral cleaning elements are elongated and generally extend respectively along a first direction of extension DE1 and a second direction of extension DE2.
  • the first side cleaning member 16 has a first fixing part 18 which is elongated and which is fixed in a first receiving groove 19 provided on the main body 3, and a first cleaning part 21 which is fixed to the first part of attachment 18 and which projects out of the first receiving groove 19.
  • the second side cleaning member 17 has a second attachment part 22 which is elongated and which is fixed in a second receiving groove 23 provided on the main body 3, and a second cleaning part 24 which is fixed to the second fixing part 22 and which protrudes out of the second receiving groove 23.
  • the first and second directions of extension DE1, DE2 are respectively defined by the directions of extension of the first and second fixing parts 18, 22.
  • each of the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 is flexible and has a generally flat shape.
  • each of the first and second receiving grooves 19, 23 have a T-shaped cross-section, and each of the first and second attachment portions 18, 22 have a generally rectangular cross-section.
  • the first and second receiving grooves 19, 23 and the first and second fixing parts 18, 22 could have cross sections of any other shape.
  • the first and second receiving grooves 19, 23 are provided on the lower face 4 of the main body 3, and extend globally respectively along first and second groove directions DR1, DR2 which converge towards each other in direction of the rear part 32 of the main body 3.
  • the first and second groove directions DR1, DR2 are respectively inclined with respect to the median longitudinal plane P of the main body 3 by an angle of inclination ⁇ 1 and an angle of inclination ⁇ 2 which are each between 20 and 40°, for example between 25 and 35°, and advantageously around 30°.
  • the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 are elongated and converge towards each other in the direction of the rear part 32 of the main body 3.
  • the front edges 210, 240 of the first and second cleaning portions 21, 24 are separated by a first separation distance and the trailing edges 211, 241 of the first and second cleaning portions 21, 24 are separated by a second separation distance which is less than the first separation distance .
  • first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 are configured to orient and guide waste, which comes into contact with one or the other of the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24, towards the opening of suction 5 when the robot vacuum cleaner 2 moves in the main direction of movement D.
  • THE first and second directions of extension DE1, DE2 are substantially horizontal when the robot vacuum cleaner 2 rests, via its drive wheels 8, on a horizontal surface.
  • each of the first and second directions of extension DE1, DE2 could be inclined with respect to the horizontal, for example by an angle of inclination comprised between ⁇ 20°, and advantageously ⁇ 10°.
  • Each of the first and second directions of extension DE1, DE2 is advantageously inclined with respect to the median longitudinal plane P of the main body 3 by an angle of inclination comprised between 20 and 40°, for example between 25 and 35°, and advantageously of about 30°.
  • the first and second directions of extension DE1, DE2 can be respectively substantially parallel to the first and second directions of groove DR1, DR2, or be slightly inclined respectively with respect to the first and second directions of groove DR1, DR2.
  • the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 may respectively be formed by a first cleaning lamella and a second cleaning lamella which are elastically deformable (see in particular the figure 2 , 3 , 6 And 11 ).
  • the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 may be formed respectively by one or more first row(s) of bristles or tufts of bristles extending along the first direction of extension DE1 and one or more second row(s) of bristles or tufts of bristles extending along the second direction of extension DE2 (see in particular the figure 4 , 7 , 9, 10 And 12 ).
  • the first and second side cleaning elements 16, 17 then form first and second side cleaning brushes which are fixed relative to the main body 3.
  • the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 are twisted respectively along the first and second directions of extension DE1, DE2, so that the first cleaning part 21 has an inclination, compared to the horizontal, which varies along the first cleaning part 21, and such that the second cleaning part 24 has an inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which varies along the second cleaning part 24.
  • the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 are twisted in such a way that the inclination of the first cleaning part 21, with respect to the horizontal, increases towards the rear edge 211 of the first cleaning part. cleaning 21, and so that the inclination of the second cleaning part 24, relative to the horizontal, increases towards the rear edge 241 of the second cleaning part 24.
  • the first cleaning part 21 comprises a first front wall portion 21.1 which is inclined downwards and laterally towards the outside of the main body 3 and the second cleaning part 24 comprises a second front wall portion 24.1 which is inclined downwards and laterally outwards from the main body 3.
  • the first and second front portions 21.1, 24.1 are respectively inclined with respect to the horizontal by an angle of inclination ⁇ 1 and an angle of inclination ⁇ 2 which are each between 30 and 60°, and advantageously between 35 and 45°.
  • the first cleaning part 21 comprises a first rear wall portion 21.2 which is inclined with respect to the horizontal by an angle of inclination ⁇ 3 comprised between 70 and 90°, advantageously between 80 and 90°
  • the second part cleaning 24 comprises a second rear wall portion 24.2 which is also inclined with respect to the horizontal by an angle of inclination ⁇ 4 comprised between 70 and 90°, advantageously between 80 and 90°.
  • the first portion of rear wall 21.2 is inclined downwards and laterally towards the exterior of the main body 3
  • the second portion of rear wall 24.2 is inclined downwards and laterally towards the exterior of the main body 3 .
  • the first front wall portion 21.1 projects laterally relative to the first side edge 3.11 of the main body 3 and the first rear wall portion 21.2 is located set back from the first side edge 3.11 of the main body 3.
  • the second front wall portion 24.1 projects laterally relative to the second side edge 3.12 of the main body 3, and the second rear wall portion 24.2 is located withdrawal of the second lateral edge 3.12 from the main body 3.
  • the first fixing part 18 is set back from the first side edge 3.11 of the main body 3, and the second fixing part 22 is also set back from the second side edge 3.12 of the main body 3.
  • the first cleaning part 21 has a first lower elongated edge 25 which extends along the entire length of the first cleaning part 21 and which is configured to be in contact with a surface to be cleaned when the robot vacuum cleaner 2 rests on the surface to be cleaned
  • the second cleaning part 24 has a second lower elongated edge 26 which extends the entire length of the second cleaning part 24 and which is configured to contact the surface to be cleaned when the robot vacuum cleaner 2 rests on said surface to be cleaned.
  • the rear end of the first lower elongated edge 25 and a first end 7.1 of the rotating cleaning brush 7 are located substantially at the same distance from the first lateral edge 3.11 of the main body 3, and the rear end of the second lower elongated edge 26 and a second end 7.2 of the rotary cleaning brush 7 are located substantially at the same distance from the second lateral edge 3.12 of the main body 3.
  • the rear end of the first edge lower elongate 25 is located in the vicinity of the first end 7.1 of the rotating cleaning brush 7, and the end rear of the second lower elongated edge 26 is located in the vicinity of the second end 7.2 of the rotating cleaning brush 7.
  • first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 are twisted respectively along the first and second directions of extension DE1, DE2. Such twisting of the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 can be achieved in various ways.
  • the robot vacuum cleaner 2 can for example comprise one or more first deformation surface(s) configured to deform the first lateral cleaning element 16 in such a way that the first cleaning part 21 is twisted along the first direction of extension DE1 and therefore has an inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which varies along the first cleaning part 21, and one or more second (s) surface (s) of deformation configured ( s) to deform the second lateral cleaning element 17 so that the second cleaning part 24 is twisted in the second direction of extension DE2 and therefore has an inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which varies along the second cleaning part 24.
  • first deformation surface(s) configured to deform the first lateral cleaning element 16 in such a way that the first cleaning part 21 is twisted along the first direction of extension DE1 and therefore has an inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which varies along the first cleaning part 21, and one or more second (s) surface (s) of deformation configured ( s) to deform the second lateral cleaning element 17 so that the second cleaning part 24 is twisted in the
  • the bottom wall and the side walls of the first receiving groove 19 are twisted and thus form the aforementioned first deformation surfaces
  • the bottom wall and the side walls of the second receiving groove 23 are twisted and thus form the second aforementioned deformation surfaces.
  • the bottom wall of each of the first and second receiving grooves 19, 23 could be flat, and only the side walls of the first receiving groove 19 could form the aforementioned first deformation surfaces and only the side walls of the second receiving groove 23 could form the aforementioned second deformation surfaces.
  • the robot vacuum cleaner 2 could comprise a single first deformation surface which would be formed by one of the side walls of the first receiving groove 19 and a single second deformation surface which would be formed by one of the side walls of the second receiving groove 23.
  • the main body 3 could comprise a first deformation member, such as a deformation rib, which is provided on the lower face 4 of the main body 3 and which comprises a first deformation surface, and a second deformation member, such as a deformation rib, which is provided on the lower face 4 of the main body 3 and which comprises a second deformation surface.
  • a first deformation member such as a deformation rib
  • a second deformation member such as a deformation rib
  • the robot vacuum cleaner 2 could have no first and second deformation surface, and the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 could be shaped so as to be twisted.
  • the rear end of the first lower elongated edge 25 could be located in the vicinity of a first lateral edge of the suction opening 5, and the rear end of the second lower elongated edge 26 could be located in the vicinity of a second lateral edge of the suction opening 5.
  • the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 could be flat (and not twisted) and each have an inclination, relative to the horizontal, which would be constant along the respective direction among the first and second directions of extension DE1, DE2.
  • first and second receiving grooves 19, 23 could be substantially parallel to the median longitudinal plane P of the main body 3.

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Description

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

La présente invention se rapporte au domaine des appareils de nettoyage de type aspirateur et, plus particulièrement au domaine des aspirateurs robots pouvant se déplacer de manière autonome sur une surface à nettoyer et permettant d'aspirer des poussières et des déchets présents sur la surface à nettoyer, qui peut par exemple être du carrelage, du parquet, du stratifié, de la moquette ou un tapis.The present invention relates to the field of cleaning devices of the vacuum cleaner type and, more particularly to the field of robot vacuum cleaners which can move independently on a surface to be cleaned and make it possible to suck up dust and waste present on the surface to be cleaned. , which can for example be tiles, parquet, laminate, carpet or carpet.

Etat de la techniqueState of the art

Les robots de nettoyage par aspiration, plus couramment appelés aspirateurs robots, sont devenus d'un usage commun de nos jours, ceux-ci permettant de nettoyer des surfaces complètes d'une habitation sans aucune assistance de l'utilisateur dès l'instant où ces surfaces sont planes, c'est-à-dire sur un même niveau. Ils offrent ainsi un gain de temps considérable aux utilisateurs pour pratiquer d'autres activités. Le document KR2006 0112947 divulgue un aspirateur robot comprenant : un corps principal comportant une face inférieure qui est configurée pour être orientée vers une surface à nettoyer, une ouverture d'aspiration débouchant dans la face inférieure du corps principal et s'étendant transversalement à une direction de déplacement principale de l'aspirateur robot, et un logement de réception relié fluidiquement à l'ouverture d'aspiration, et comprenant une brosse de nettoyage rotative montée mobile en rotation dans le logement de réception autour d'un axe de rotation qui s'étend transversalement à la direction de déplacement principale de l'aspirateur robot, et comprenant un premier élément de nettoyage latéral monté sur une partie avant du corps principal et situé au voisinage d'un premier bord latéral du corps principal, le premier élément de nettoyage latéral comportant une première partie de nettoyage qui est flexible, où le premier élément de nettoyage latéral est fixe par rapport au corps principal, et où la première partie de nettoyage est configurée pour orienter des déchets, qui viennent au contact de la première partie de nettoyage lorsque l'aspirateur robot se déplace selon la direction de déplacement principale, vers l'ouverture d'aspiration.Vacuum cleaning robots, more commonly known as robot vacuum cleaners, have become common nowadays, allowing complete cleaning of a home's surfaces without any user assistance as soon as these surfaces are flat, i.e. on the same level. They thus offer a considerable saving of time to the users to practice other activities. The document KR2006 0112947 discloses a robotic vacuum cleaner comprising: a main body having an underside which is configured to face a surface to be cleaned, a suction opening opening into the underside of the main body and extending transversely to a main direction of movement of the robot vacuum cleaner, and a receiving housing fluidly connected to the suction opening, and including a rotatable cleaning brush rotatably mounted in the receiving housing about an axis of rotation which extends transversely to the main direction of movement of the robot vacuum cleaner, and comprising a first side cleaning member mounted on a front part of the main body and located adjacent to a first side edge of the main body, the first side cleaning member having a first part which is flexible, where the first side cleaning member is fixed relative to the main body, and where the first cleaning part is configured to direct waste, which comes into contact with the first cleaning part when the robot vacuum cleaner moves in the main direction of travel, towards the suction opening.

Un aspirateur robot comprend de façon connue :

  • un corps principal comportant une face inférieure qui est configurée pour être orientée vers une surface à nettoyer, une ouverture d'aspiration débouchant dans la face inférieure du corps principal et s'étendant transversalement à une direction de déplacement de l'aspirateur robot, et un logement de réception relié fluidiquement à l'ouverture d'aspiration,
  • deux roues motrices montées mobiles en rotation sur le corps principal et configurées pour rouler sur la surface à nettoyer,
  • une brosse de nettoyage principale montée mobile en rotation dans le logement de réception autour d'un axe de rotation qui s'étend transversalement à la direction de déplacement de l'aspirateur robot,
  • une première brosse de nettoyage latérale et une deuxième brosse de nettoyage latérale situées respectivement au voisinage d'un premier bord latéral et d'un deuxième bord latéral du corps principal, les première et deuxièmes brosses de nettoyage latérales étant montées mobiles en rotation sur une partie avant du corps principal respectivement autour d'un première axe de rotation et d'un deuxième axe de rotation qui sont verticaux lorsque les deux roues motrices reposent sur la surface à nettoyer, et
  • un mécanisme d'entraînement configuré pour entraîner en rotation les première et deuxième brosses de nettoyage latérales.
A robot vacuum cleaner comprises in known manner:
  • a main body having a lower face which is configured to face a surface to be cleaned, a suction opening opening into the lower face of the main body and extending transversely to a direction of movement of the robot vacuum cleaner, and a receiving housing fluidly connected to the suction opening,
  • two drive wheels mounted rotatably on the main body and configured to roll over the surface to be cleaned,
  • a main cleaning brush rotatably mounted in the housing receiving around an axis of rotation which extends transversely to the direction of movement of the robot vacuum cleaner,
  • a first side cleaning brush and a second side cleaning brush located respectively in the vicinity of a first side edge and a second side edge of the main body, the first and second side cleaning brushes being rotatably mounted on a part front of the main body respectively around a first axis of rotation and a second axis of rotation which are vertical when the two driving wheels rest on the surface to be cleaned, and
  • a drive mechanism configured to rotate the first and second side cleaning brushes.

Les première et deuxième brosses de nettoyage latérales permettent de projeter des déchets, présents par exemple à proximité d'un mur le long duquel se déplace l'aspirateur robot, à distance du mur et en particulier sur le trajet de déplacement de l'aspirateur robot de telle sorte que ce dernier puisse aspirer ces déchets.The first and second lateral cleaning brushes make it possible to project waste, present for example near a wall along which the robot vacuum cleaner moves, away from the wall and in particular on the path of movement of the robot vacuum cleaner so that the latter can suck up this waste.

Cependant, une partie des déchets projetés par les première et deuxième brosses de nettoyage latérales peut être projetée dans des zones déjà nettoyées par l'aspirateur robot. Or, ces zones ne seront pas nettoyées de nouveau par l'aspirateur robot si ce dernier est piloté selon des déplacements méthodiques, et non pas aléatoires. Ainsi, la qualité du nettoyage réalisé par un tel aspirateur robot peut ne pas être satisfaisante pour un utilisateur.However, some of the debris thrown by the first and second side cleaning brushes may be thrown into areas already cleaned by the robot vacuum cleaner. However, these areas will not be cleaned again by the robot vacuum cleaner if the latter is controlled according to methodical movements, and not random. Thus, the quality of the cleaning carried out by such a robot vacuum cleaner may not be satisfactory for a user.

De plus, compte tenu de la vitesse de rotation relativement rapide des première et deuxième brosses de nettoyage latérales et du fait que ces dernières sont amenées à frotter régulièrement contre des obstacles, les première et deuxième brosses de nettoyage latérales s'usent rapidement et doivent donc être remplacées régulièrement.In addition, in view of the relatively fast rotational speed of the first and second side cleaning brushes and the fact that the latter are caused to regularly rub against obstacles, the first and second side cleaning brushes wear out quickly and must therefore be replaced regularly.

En outre, étant donné que certains des composants mécaniques appartenant au mécanisme d'entraînement précité sont disposés de part et d'autres des deux extrémités de la brosse de nettoyage principale, les longueurs de la brosse de nettoyage principale et de l'ouverture d'aspiration sont nécessairement limitées (sauf à augmenter l'encombrement de l'aspirateur robot, ce qui n'est pas souhaité), ce qui limite la largeur de la surface pouvant être nettoyée par l'aspirateur robot lors de chacun de ses déplacements et augmente donc la durée de nettoyage d'une surface donnée.Furthermore, since some of the mechanical components belonging to the aforementioned drive mechanism are arranged on either side of both ends of the main cleaning brush, the lengths of the main cleaning brush and the suction opening are necessarily limited (except to increase the bulkiness of the robot vacuum cleaner, which is not desired), which limits the width of the surface that can be cleaned by the robot vacuum cleaner during each of its movements and therefore increases the cleaning time of a given surface .

Une telle disposition des composants mécaniques appartenant au mécanisme d'entraînement nécessite également d'écarter la brosse de nettoyage principale et l'ouverture d'aspiration des bords latéraux du corps principal, ce qui rend malaisé le nettoyage des surfaces situées à proximité immédiate des obstacles ou des murs rencontrés par l'aspirateur robot.Such an arrangement of the mechanical components belonging to the drive mechanism also makes it necessary to separate the main cleaning brush and the suction opening from the side edges of the main body, which makes it difficult to clean the surfaces located in the immediate vicinity of the obstacles. or walls encountered by the robot vacuum cleaner.

De plus, les première et deuxième brosses de nettoyage latérales sont inefficaces sur les moquettes et tapis. En effet, seule la brosse de nettoyage principale permet de battre les fibres d'une moquette ou d'un tapis et d'aspirer les poussières retenues par ces fibres.In addition, the first and second side cleaning brushes are ineffective on carpets and rugs. In fact, only the main cleaning brush can beat the fibers of a carpet or rug and suck up the dust retained by these fibers.

En outre, des câbles, des lacets ou d'autres éléments allongés et souples sont susceptibles de s'enrouler autour des première et deuxième brosses de nettoyage latérales, ce qui peut nuire au fonctionnement et à l'intégrité de l'aspirateur robot.In addition, cables, laces or other elongated and flexible elements are likely to wrap around the first and second side cleaning brushes, which can adversely affect the operation and integrity of the robot vacuum cleaner.

Résumé de l'inventionSummary of the invention

La présente invention vise à remédier à ces inconvénients.The present invention aims to remedy these drawbacks.

Le problème technique à la base de l'invention consiste notamment à fournir un aspirateur robot qui soit de structure simple et économique, tout en permettant un nettoyage efficace, rapide et aisé d'une surface à nettoyer.The technical problem underlying the invention consists in particular in providing a robot vacuum cleaner which is of simple and economical structure, while allowing efficient, rapid and easy cleaning of a surface to be cleaned.

A cet effet, l'invention a pour objet un aspirateur robot comprenant :

  • un corps principal comportant une face inférieure qui est configurée pour être orientée vers une surface à nettoyer, une ouverture d'aspiration débouchant dans la face inférieure du corps principal et s'étendant transversalement à une direction de déplacement principale de l'aspirateur robot, et un logement de réception relié fluidiquement à l'ouverture d'aspiration,
  • une brosse de nettoyage rotative montée mobile en rotation dans le logement de réception autour d'un axe de rotation qui s'étend transversalement à la direction de déplacement principale de l'aspirateur robot, et
  • un premier élément de nettoyage latéral monté sur une partie avant du corps principal et situé au voisinage d'un premier bord latéral du corps principal, le premier élément de nettoyage latéral comportant une première partie de nettoyage qui est flexible.
To this end, the subject of the invention is a robot vacuum cleaner comprising:
  • a main body having an underside that is configured to be oriented towards a surface to be cleaned, a suction opening opening into the underside of the main body and extending transversely to a main direction of movement of the robot vacuum cleaner, and a receiving housing fluidly connected to the opening of suction,
  • a rotating cleaning brush rotatably mounted in the receiving housing about an axis of rotation which extends transversely to the main direction of movement of the robot vacuum cleaner, and
  • a first side cleaning element mounted on a front part of the main body and located in the vicinity of a first side edge of the main body, the first side cleaning element having a first cleaning part which is flexible.

Le premier élément de nettoyage latéral est fixe par rapport au corps principal, et la première partie de nettoyage est configurée pour orienter des déchets, qui viennent au contact de la première partie de nettoyage lorsque l'aspirateur robot se déplace selon la direction de déplacement principale, vers l'ouverture d'aspiration.The first side cleaning member is fixed with respect to the main body, and the first cleaning part is configured to direct waste, which comes into contact with the first cleaning part when the robot vacuum cleaner moves in the main direction of movement , towards the suction opening.

Une telle configuration du premier élément de nettoyage latéral, qui est passif, permet d'une part de simplifier sensiblement l'aspirateur robot, puisqu'aucun mécanisme d'entraînement apte à entraîner le premier élément de nettoyage latéral n'est à prévoir, et d'autre part de réduire significativement la consommation électrique de l'aspirateur robot et la fréquence des remplacements du premier élément de nettoyage latéral. Les coûts de fabrication et d'utilisation de l'aspirateur robot selon la présente invention sont donc sensiblement limités.Such a configuration of the first lateral cleaning element, which is passive, makes it possible on the one hand to substantially simplify the robot vacuum cleaner, since no drive mechanism capable of driving the first lateral cleaning element is to be provided, and on the other hand to significantly reduce the power consumption of the robot vacuum cleaner and the frequency of replacement of the first side cleaning element. The costs of manufacturing and using the robot vacuum cleaner according to the present invention are therefore substantially limited.

De plus, étant donné que la première partie de nettoyage est configurée pour orienter vers l'ouverture d'aspiration des déchets qui sont rencontrés par la première partie de nettoyage lorsque l'aspirateur robot se déplace selon la direction de déplacement principale, l'aspirateur robot selon la présente invention assure un nettoyage efficace d'une surface à nettoyer, y compris à proximité des obstacles rencontrés par l'aspirateur robot.In addition, since the first cleaning part is configured to direct towards the suction opening wastes which are encountered by the first cleaning part when the robot vacuum cleaner moves in the main direction of movement, the vacuum cleaner robot according to the present invention ensures effective cleaning of a surface to be cleaned, including proximity to obstacles encountered by the robot vacuum cleaner.

En outre, l'absence d'un mécanisme d'entraînement apte à entraîner le premier élément de nettoyage latéral, et donc de composants mécaniques au voisinage de l'extrémité respective de la brosse de nettoyage rotative, permet d'augmenter les longueurs de la brosse de nettoyage rotative et de l'ouverture d'aspiration, et ainsi de traiter plus rapidement une surface à nettoyer.Furthermore, the absence of a drive mechanism capable of driving the first side cleaning element, and therefore of mechanical components in the vicinity of the respective end of the rotating cleaning brush, makes it possible to increase the lengths of the rotating cleaning brush and the suction opening, and thus to process a surface to be cleaned more quickly.

L'aspirateur robot objet de la présente invention est conçu, comme la majorité des aspirateurs robots, pour nettoyer efficacement les sols lorsqu'il se déplace selon une direction de déplacement parallèle à l'axe longitudinal de l'aspirateur robot et selon un sens de déplacement prédéterminé. La direction de déplacement parallèle à l'axe longitudinal de l'aspirateur robot et le sens de déplacement prédéterminé définissent la direction de déplacement principale précitée de l'aspirateur robot objet de la présente invention. Ainsi, une partie avant ou une partie arrière du corps principal de l'aspirateur robot est identifiée par rapport à la direction de déplacement principale de l'aspirateur robot.The robot vacuum cleaner object of the present invention is designed, like the majority of robot vacuum cleaners, to effectively clean the floors when it moves in a direction of movement parallel to the longitudinal axis of the robot vacuum cleaner and in a direction of predetermined displacement. The direction of movement parallel to the longitudinal axis of the robot vacuum cleaner and the predetermined direction of movement define the aforementioned main direction of movement of the robot vacuum cleaner which is the subject of the present invention. Thus, a front part or a rear part of the main body of the robot vacuum cleaner is identified with respect to the main moving direction of the robot vacuum cleaner.

L'aspirateur robot peut en outre présenter une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques suivantes, prises seules ou en combinaison.The robot vacuum cleaner may further have one or more of the following features, taken alone or in combination.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, l'aspirateur robot comprend en outre un deuxième élément de nettoyage latéral monté sur la partie avant du corps principal et situé au voisinage d'un deuxième bord latéral du corps principal, le deuxième élément de nettoyage latéral étant fixe par rapport au corps principal et comportant une deuxième partie de nettoyage qui est flexible, les première et deuxième parties de nettoyage étant configurées pour orienter des déchets, qui viennent au contact des première et deuxième parties de nettoyage lorsque l'aspirateur robot se déplace selon la direction de déplacement principale, vers l'ouverture d'aspiration.According to one embodiment of the invention, the robot vacuum cleaner further comprises a second side cleaning element mounted on the front part of the main body and located in the vicinity of a second side edge of the main body, the second cleaning element being fixed relative to the main body and comprising a second cleaning part which is flexible, the first and second cleaning parts being configured to direct waste, which comes into contact with the first and second cleaning parts when the robot vacuum cleaner moves in the main direction of travel, towards the suction opening.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la distance entre un bord avant de la première partie de nettoyage et le plan longitudinal médian du corps principal est supérieure à la distance entre un bord arrière de la première partie de nettoyage et le plan longitudinal médian du corps principal. De façon avantageuse, la distance entre un bord avant de la deuxième partie de nettoyage et le plan longitudinal médian du corps principal est supérieure à la distance entre un bord arrière de la deuxième partie de nettoyage et le plan longitudinal médian du corps principal.According to one embodiment of the invention, the distance between a front edge of the first cleaning part and the median longitudinal plane of the main body is greater than the distance between a rear edge of the first part cleaning area and the median longitudinal plane of the main body. Advantageously, the distance between a front edge of the second cleaning part and the median longitudinal plane of the main body is greater than the distance between a rear edge of the second cleaning part and the median longitudinal plane of the main body.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, les première et deuxième parties de nettoyage convergent l'une vers l'autre en direction d'une partie arrière du corps principal. En d'autres termes, les bords avant des première et deuxième parties de nettoyage sont distants d'une première distance de séparation et les bord arrière des première et deuxième parties de nettoyage sont distants d'une deuxième distance de séparation qui est inférieure à la première distance de séparation. Une telle configuration des première et deuxième parties de nettoyage favorise le guidage des déchets rencontrés par ces dernières vers l'ouverture d'aspiration, ce qui améliore encore l'efficacité de nettoyage de l'aspirateur robot selon la présente invention. Une telle configuration des première et deuxième parties de nettoyage permet également d'orienter les flux aérauliques sous l'aspirateur robot depuis l'avant de l'aspirateur robot vers l'ouverture d'aspiration, ce qui favorise l'aspiration des déchets rencontrés par l'aspirateur robot.According to an embodiment of the invention, the first and second cleaning parts converge towards each other in the direction of a rear part of the main body. In other words, the front edges of the first and second cleaning parts are separated by a first separation distance and the rear edges of the first and second cleaning parts are separated by a second separation distance which is less than the first separation distance. Such a configuration of the first and second cleaning parts promotes the guiding of the waste encountered by the latter towards the suction opening, which further improves the cleaning efficiency of the robot vacuum cleaner according to the present invention. Such a configuration of the first and second cleaning parts also makes it possible to direct the aeraulic flows under the robot vacuum cleaner from the front of the robot vacuum cleaner towards the suction opening, which promotes the suction of the waste encountered by the robot vacuum cleaner.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, le premier élément de nettoyage latéral est allongé et s'étend globalement selon une première direction d'extension. De façon avantageuse, le deuxième élément de nettoyage latéral est allongé et s'étend globalement selon une deuxième direction d'extension. Avantageusement, les première et deuxième directions d'extension convergent l'une vers l'autre en direction de la partie arrière du corps principal.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first lateral cleaning element is elongated and extends generally in a first direction of extension. Advantageously, the second side cleaning element is elongated and extends globally in a second direction of extension. Advantageously, the first and second directions of extension converge towards each other in the direction of the rear part of the main body.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première partie de nettoyage est torsadée selon la première direction d'extension. De façon avantageuse, la deuxième partie de nettoyage est torsadée selon la deuxième direction d'extension. Une telle configuration des première et deuxième parties de nettoyage permet de faire varier l'inclinaison des première et deuxième parties de nettoyage par rapport à l'horizontale, en particulier d'obtenir un angle d'ouverture élevé des première et deuxième parties de nettoyage et ce avec des première et deuxième parties de nettoyage de longueurs réduites. Ces dispositions permettent notamment de rapprocher la brosse de nettoyage rotative du bord avant du corps principal et également de rapprocher les extrémités de la brosse de nettoyage rotative des bords latéraux du corps principal, et donc d'améliorer encore l'efficacité de nettoyage de l'aspirateur robot selon la présente invention.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first cleaning part is twisted along the first direction of extension. Advantageously, the second cleaning part is twisted along the second direction of extension. Such a configuration of the first and second cleaning parts makes it possible to vary the inclination of the first and second cleaning parts with respect to the horizontal, in particular to obtain a high opening angle of the first and second cleaning parts and this with first and second cleaning parts of reduced lengths. These arrangements make it possible in particular to bring the rotating cleaning brush closer to the front edge of the main body and also to bring the ends of the rotating cleaning brush closer to the side edges of the main body, and therefore to further improve the cleaning efficiency of the robot vacuum cleaner according to the present invention.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première partie de nettoyage présente une forme globalement plate. La première partie de nettoyage peut également avoir une forme de paroi ou de bande. De façon avantageuse, la deuxième partie de nettoyage présente une forme globalement plate, ou a une forme de paroi ou de bande.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first cleaning part has a generally flat shape. The first cleaning part can also have the form of a wall or a strip. Advantageously, the second cleaning part has a generally flat shape, or has the shape of a wall or a strip.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, les première et deuxième parties de nettoyage sont disposées de manière symétrique par rapport au plan longitudinal médian du corps principal. Ces dispositions permettent d'améliorer encore l'efficacité de nettoyage de l'aspirateur robot selon la présente invention.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second cleaning parts are arranged symmetrically with respect to the median longitudinal plane of the main body. These provisions make it possible to further improve the cleaning efficiency of the robot vacuum cleaner according to the present invention.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, au moins une portion de la première partie de nettoyage est inclinée par rapport à l'horizontale et à la verticale lorsque l'aspirateur robot repose, en particulier par ses roues motrices, sur une surface horizontale. De façon avantageuse, au moins une portion de la deuxième partie de nettoyage est inclinée par rapport à l'horizontale et à la verticale lorsque l'aspirateur robot repose, en particulier par ses roues motrices, sur une surface horizontale.According to one embodiment of the invention, at least a portion of the first cleaning part is inclined with respect to the horizontal and the vertical when the robot vacuum cleaner rests, in particular by its driving wheels, on a horizontal surface . Advantageously, at least a portion of the second cleaning part is inclined with respect to the horizontal and the vertical when the robot vacuum cleaner rests, in particular by its driving wheels, on a horizontal surface.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première partie de nettoyage présente une inclinaison, par rapport à l'horizontale, qui varie le long de la première partie de nettoyage. De façon avantageuse, la deuxième partie de nettoyage présente une inclinaison, par rapport à l'horizontale, qui varie le long de la deuxième partie de nettoyage.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first cleaning part has an inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which varies along the first cleaning part. Advantageously, the second cleaning part has an inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which varies along the second cleaning part.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première partie de nettoyage présente une inclinaison, par rapport à l'horizontale, qui augmente en direction du bord arrière de la première partie de nettoyage. De façon avantageuse, la deuxième partie de nettoyage présente une inclinaison, par rapport à l'horizontale, qui augmente en direction du bord arrière de la deuxième partie de nettoyage.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first cleaning part has an inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which increases in the direction of the rear edge of the first cleaning part. Advantageously, the second cleaning part has an inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which increases towards the rear edge of the second cleaning part.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première partie de nettoyage comporte une première portion de paroi avant qui est inclinée vers le bas et latéralement vers l'extérieur du corps principal. De façon avantageuse, la deuxième partie de nettoyage comporte une deuxième portion de paroi avant qui est inclinée vers le bas et latéralement vers l'extérieur du corps principal.According to an embodiment of the invention, the first cleaning part comprises a first front wall portion which is inclined downwards and laterally towards the outside of the main body. Advantageously, the second cleaning part comprises a second front wall portion which is inclined downwards and laterally towards the outside of the main body.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première portion de paroi avant est formée par une pluralité de poils ou de touffes de poils ou est formée en un matériau flexible. De façon avantageuse, la deuxième portion de paroi avant est formée par une pluralité de poils ou de touffes de poils ou est formée en un matériau flexible.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first front wall portion is formed by a plurality of bristles or tufts of bristles or is formed from a flexible material. Advantageously, the second front wall portion is formed by a plurality of bristles or tufts of bristles or is formed from a flexible material.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première portion de paroi avant est inclinée par rapport à l'horizontale d'un angle d'inclinaison compris entre 30 et 60°, et avantageusement entre 35 et 45°. De façon avantageuse, la deuxième portion de paroi avant est inclinée par rapport à l'horizontale d'un angle d'inclinaison compris entre 30 et 60°, et avantageusement entre 35 et 45°.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first front wall portion is inclined with respect to the horizontal by an angle of inclination comprised between 30 and 60°, and advantageously between 35 and 45°. Advantageously, the second front wall portion is inclined with respect to the horizontal by an angle of inclination comprised between 30 and 60°, and advantageously between 35 and 45°.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première partie de nettoyage comporte une première portion de paroi arrière qui est inclinée par rapport à l'horizontale d'un angle d'inclinaison compris entre 70 et 90°, avantageusement entre 80 et 90°. De façon avantageuse, la deuxième partie de nettoyage comporte une deuxième portion de paroi arrière qui est inclinée par rapport à l'horizontale d'un angle d'inclinaison compris entre 70 et 90°, avantageusement entre 80 et 90°.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first cleaning part comprises a first rear wall portion which is inclined with respect to the horizontal by an angle of inclination comprised between 70 and 90°, advantageously between 80 and 90 °. Advantageously, the second cleaning part comprises a second rear wall portion which is inclined with respect to the horizontal by an angle of inclination comprised between 70 and 90°, advantageously between 80 and 90°.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première portion de paroi arrière est inclinée vers le bas et latéralement vers l'extérieur du corps principal. De façon avantageuse, la deuxième portion de paroi arrière est inclinée vers le bas et latéralement vers l'extérieur du corps principal.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first wall portion rear is angled downward and laterally outward from the main body. Advantageously, the second rear wall portion is inclined downwards and laterally towards the outside of the main body.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première portion de paroi arrière est située en retrait du premier bord latéral du corps principal. De façon avantageuse, la deuxième portion de paroi arrière est située en retrait du deuxième bord latéral du corps principal.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first rear wall portion is set back from the first side edge of the main body. Advantageously, the second rear wall portion is set back from the second side edge of the main body.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, au moins une portion de la première partie de nettoyage fait saillie latéralement par rapport au premier bord latéral du corps principal. De façon avantageuse, au moins une portion de la deuxième partie de nettoyage fait saillie latéralement par rapport au deuxième bord latéral du corps principal. Ces dispositions permettent à l'aspirateur robot de pouvoir nettoyer efficacement notamment des surfaces situées le long de murs, tout en permettant à l'aspirateur robot de longer ces murs sans entrer en contact avec ces derniers.According to an embodiment of the invention, at least a portion of the first cleaning part protrudes laterally with respect to the first side edge of the main body. Advantageously, at least a portion of the second cleaning part protrudes laterally with respect to the second side edge of the main body. These arrangements allow the robot vacuum cleaner to be able to effectively clean in particular surfaces located along walls, while allowing the robot vacuum cleaner to run along these walls without coming into contact with them.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première portion de paroi avant fait saillie latéralement par rapport au premier bord latéral du corps principal. De façon avantageuse, la deuxième portion de paroi avant fait saillie latéralement par rapport au deuxième bord latéral du corps principal.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first front wall portion projects laterally relative to the first side edge of the main body. Advantageously, the second front wall portion projects laterally relative to the second side edge of the main body.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, le premier élément de nettoyage latéral comporte une première partie de fixation qui est fixée dans une première rainure de réception prévue sur le corps principal, la première partie de nettoyage étant supportée par la première partie de fixation. De façon avantageuse, le deuxième élément de nettoyage latéral comporte une deuxième partie de fixation qui est fixée dans une deuxième rainure de réception prévue sur le corps principal, la deuxième partie de nettoyage étant supportée par la deuxième partie de fixation.According to an embodiment of the invention, the first side cleaning element comprises a first fixing part which is fixed in a first receiving groove provided on the main body, the first cleaning part being supported by the first fixing part . Advantageously, the second side cleaning element comprises a second fixing part which is fixed in a second receiving groove provided on the main body, the second cleaning part being supported by the second fixing part.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première rainure de réception s'étend globalement selon une première direction de rainure. De façon avantageuse, la première direction de rainure est inclinée par rapport au plan longitudinal médian du corps principal d'un angle d'inclinaison compris entre 20 et 40°, par exemple entre 25 et 35°, et avantageusement d'environ 30°.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first receiving groove extends globally along a first groove direction. In a way advantageously, the first groove direction is inclined relative to the median longitudinal plane of the main body by an angle of inclination of between 20 and 40°, for example between 25 and 35°, and advantageously of around 30°.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la deuxième rainure de réception s'étend globalement selon une deuxième direction de rainure. De façon avantageuse, la deuxième direction de rainure est inclinée par rapport au plan longitudinal médian du corps principal d'un angle d'inclinaison compris entre 20 et 40°, par exemple entre 25 et 35°, et avantageusement d'environ 30°According to one embodiment of the invention, the second receiving groove extends globally along a second groove direction. Advantageously, the second groove direction is inclined relative to the median longitudinal plane of the main body by an angle of inclination of between 20 and 40°, for example between 25 and 35°, and advantageously of around 30°

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, les première et deuxième directions de rainure convergent l'une vers l'autre en direction de la partie arrière du corps principal.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second groove directions converge towards each other in the direction of the rear part of the main body.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première et/ou la deuxième direction(s) de rainure s'étend(ent) sensiblement parallèlement au plan longitudinal médian du corps principal.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and/or the second groove direction(s) extend(s) substantially parallel to the median longitudinal plane of the main body.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première et/ou la deuxième rainure(s) de réception est/sont ménagée(s) sur la face inférieure du corps principal ou sur des éléments qui composent le corps principal, et par exemple sur un pare-chocs avant de l'aspirateur robot.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and/or second receiving groove(s) is/are provided on the underside of the main body or on elements which make up the main body, and for example on a front bumper of the robot vacuum cleaner.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première rainure de réception est torsadée selon la première direction de rainure. De façon avantageuse, la deuxième rainure de réception est torsadée selon la deuxième direction de rainure.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first receiving groove is twisted along the first groove direction. Advantageously, the second receiving groove is twisted along the second groove direction.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, chacune des première et deuxième rainures de réception présente une paroi de fond qui est plane ou torsadée.According to one embodiment of the invention, each of the first and second receiving grooves has a bottom wall which is flat or twisted.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, l'aspirateur robot comporte au moins une première surface de déformation configurée pour déformer le premier élément de nettoyage latéral, et par exemple la première partie de nettoyage, de telle sorte qu'au moins une portion de la première partie de nettoyage est inclinée par rapport à l'horizontale et à la verticale lorsque l'aspirateur robot repose sur une surface horizontale. De façon avantageuse, l'aspirateur robot comporte au moins une deuxième surface de déformation configurée pour déformer le deuxième élément de nettoyage latéral, et par exemple la deuxième partie de nettoyage, de telle sorte qu'au moins une portion de la deuxième partie de nettoyage est inclinée par rapport à l'horizontale et à la verticale lorsque l'aspirateur robot repose sur une surface horizontale.According to one embodiment of the invention, the robot vacuum cleaner comprises at least a first deformation surface configured to deform the first side cleaning element, and for example the first part of cleaning, such that at least a portion of the first cleaning part is inclined with respect to the horizontal and the vertical when the robot vacuum cleaner rests on a horizontal surface. Advantageously, the robot vacuum cleaner comprises at least a second deformation surface configured to deform the second side cleaning element, and for example the second cleaning part, such that at least a portion of the second cleaning part is tilted from the horizontal and vertical when the Robotic Cleaner rests on a horizontal surface.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, l'au moins une première surface de déformation est configurée pour déformer le premier élément de nettoyage latéral, et par exemple la première partie de nettoyage, de telle sorte que la première partie de nettoyage présente une inclinaison, par rapport à l'horizontale, qui varie le long de la première partie de nettoyage. De façon avantageuse, l'au moins une deuxième surface de déformation est configurée pour déformer le deuxième élément de nettoyage latéral, et par exemple la deuxième partie de nettoyage, de telle sorte que la deuxième partie de nettoyage présente une inclinaison, par rapport à l'horizontale, qui varie le long de la deuxième partie de nettoyage.According to one embodiment of the invention, the at least one first deformation surface is configured to deform the first side cleaning element, and for example the first cleaning part, such that the first cleaning part has a inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which varies along the first cleaning part. Advantageously, the at least one second deformation surface is configured to deform the second lateral cleaning element, and for example the second cleaning part, such that the second cleaning part has an inclination, with respect to the 'horizontal, which varies along the second cleaning part.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, le corps principal comporte un premier organe de déformation, tel qu'une nervure de déformation, comprenant l'au moins une première surface de déformation. Le premier organe de déformation peut par exemple être prévu sur la face inférieure du corps principal.According to one embodiment of the invention, the main body comprises a first deformation member, such as a deformation rib, comprising the at least one first deformation surface. The first deformation member can for example be provided on the underside of the main body.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première rainure de réception comporte l'au moins une première surface de déformation. De façon avantageuse, la deuxième rainure de réception comporte l'au moins une deuxième surface de déformation.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first receiving groove comprises the at least one first deformation surface. Advantageously, the second receiving groove comprises the at least one second deformation surface.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, l'au moins une première surface de déformation est formée par la paroi de fond et/ou au moins l'une des parois latérales de la première rainure de réception. De façon avantageuse, l'au moins une deuxième surface de déformation est formée par la paroi de fond et/ou au moins l'une des parois latérales de la deuxième rainure de réception.According to one embodiment of the invention, the at least one first deformation surface is formed by the bottom wall and/or at least one of the side walls of the first receiving groove. Advantageously, the at least one second deformation surface is formed by the bottom wall and/or at least one of the side walls of the second receiving groove.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, le premier élément de nettoyage latéral est situé à l'avant de l'axe de rotation de la brosse de nettoyage rotative, et avantageusement à l'avant du bord avant de l'ouverture d'aspiration.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first side cleaning element is located forward of the axis of rotation of the rotating cleaning brush, and advantageously forward of the front edge of the opening of suction.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, le deuxième élément de nettoyage latéral est situé à l'avant de l'axe de rotation de la brosse de nettoyage rotative, et avantageusement à l'avant du bord avant de l'ouverture d'aspiration.According to one embodiment of the invention, the second side cleaning element is located forward of the axis of rotation of the rotating cleaning brush, and advantageously forward of the front edge of the opening of suction.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, le premier élément de nettoyage latéral est disposé en retrait du bord avant du corps principal. De façon avantageuse, le deuxième élément de nettoyage latéral est disposé en retrait du bord avant du corps principal.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first side cleaning element is set back from the front edge of the main body. Advantageously, the second side cleaning element is set back from the front edge of the main body.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, le premier élément de nettoyage latéral fait saillie de la face inférieure du corps principal d'une première hauteur de saillie qui est sensiblement constante le long du premier élément de nettoyage latéral. De façon avantageuse, le deuxième élément de nettoyage latéral fait saillie de la face inférieure du corps principal d'une deuxième hauteur de saillie qui est sensiblement constante le long du deuxième élément de nettoyage latéral et qui est sensiblement identique à la première hauteur de saille. Ces dispositions permettent d'assurer un contact de chacun des premier et deuxième éléments de nettoyage latéraux avec un sol à nettoyer sur toute la longueur de la partie de nettoyage respective parmi les première et deuxième partie de nettoyage.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first side cleaning element projects from the underside of the main body by a first projection height which is substantially constant along the first side cleaning element. Advantageously, the second side cleaning element projects from the underside of the main body by a second projection height which is substantially constant along the second side cleaning element and which is substantially identical to the first projection height. These arrangements make it possible to ensure contact of each of the first and second lateral cleaning elements with a floor to be cleaned over the entire length of the respective cleaning part among the first and second cleaning parts.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, le premier élément de nettoyage latéral est formé par une première brosse de nettoyage latérale. De façon avantageuse, le deuxième élément de nettoyage latéral est formé par une deuxième brosse de nettoyage latérale.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first side cleaning element is formed by a first side cleaning brush. Advantageously, the second side cleaning element is formed by a second side cleaning brush.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première partie de nettoyage comporte au moins une première rangée de poils ou de touffes de poils. De façon avantageuse, la deuxième partie de nettoyage comporte au moins une deuxième rangée de poils ou de touffes de poils.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first cleaning part comprises at least a first row of bristles or tufts of bristles. Advantageously, the second cleaning part comprises at least a second row of bristles or tufts of bristles.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première partie de nettoyage est formée par une première lamelle de nettoyage qui est élastiquement déformable. De façon avantageuse, la deuxième partie de nettoyage est formée par une deuxième lamelle de nettoyage qui est élastiquement déformable.According to one embodiment of the invention, the first cleaning part is formed by a first cleaning blade which is elastically deformable. Advantageously, the second cleaning part is formed by a second cleaning strip which is elastically deformable.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, le corps principal présente, vu de dessus, une forme générale de D.According to one embodiment of the invention, the main body has, seen from above, a general D shape.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première partie de nettoyage comporte un premier bord allongé inférieur qui s'étend sur toute la longueur de la première partie de nettoyage et qui est configuré pour être en contact avec une surface à nettoyer lorsque l'aspirateur robot repose sur ladite surface à nettoyer. De façon avantageuse, la deuxième partie de nettoyage comporte un deuxième bord allongé inférieur qui s'étend sur toute la longueur de la deuxième partie de nettoyage et qui est configuré pour être en contact avec la surface à nettoyer lorsque l'aspirateur robot repose sur ladite surface à nettoyerAccording to one embodiment of the invention, the first cleaning part has a first lower elongated edge which extends the entire length of the first cleaning part and which is configured to be in contact with a surface to be cleaned when the robot vacuum rests on said surface to be cleaned. Advantageously, the second cleaning part comprises a second lower elongated edge which extends over the entire length of the second cleaning part and which is configured to be in contact with the surface to be cleaned when the robot vacuum cleaner rests on said area to be cleaned

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, l'extrémité arrière du premier bord allongé inférieur et une première extrémité de la brosse de nettoyage rotative sont situées sensiblement à une même distance du premier bord latéral du corps principal. De façon avantageuse, l'extrémité arrière du deuxième bord allongé inférieur et une deuxième extrémité de la brosse de nettoyage rotative sont situées sensiblement à une même distance du deuxième bord latéral du corps principal.According to one embodiment of the invention, the rear end of the first lower elongated edge and a first end of the rotating cleaning brush are located substantially at the same distance from the first side edge of the main body. Advantageously, the rear end of the second lower elongated edge and a second end of the rotating cleaning brush are located substantially at the same distance from the second side edge of the main body.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, l'extrémité arrière du premier bord allongé inférieur est située au voisinage d'une première extrémité de la brosse de nettoyage rotative. De façon avantageuse, l'extrémité arrière du deuxième bord allongé inférieur est située au voisinage d'une deuxième extrémité de la brosse de nettoyage rotative.According to one embodiment of the invention, the rear end of the first lower elongated edge is located in the vicinity of a first end of the rotating cleaning brush. Advantageously, the rear end of the second lower elongated edge is located adjacent a second end of the rotating cleaning brush.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, l'extrémité arrière du premier bord allongé inférieur est située au voisinage d'un premier bord latéral de l'ouverture d'aspiration. De façon avantageuse, l'extrémité arrière du deuxième bord allongé inférieur est située au voisinage d'un deuxième bord latéral de l'ouverture d'aspiration.According to one embodiment of the invention, the rear end of the first lower elongated edge is located in the vicinity of a first lateral edge of the suction opening. Advantageously, the rear end of the second lower elongated edge is located in the vicinity of a second lateral edge of the suction opening.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, l'axe de rotation de la brosse de nettoyage rotative est sensiblement horizontal lorsque l'aspirateur robot repose sur une surface horizontale.According to one embodiment of the invention, the axis of rotation of the rotating cleaning brush is substantially horizontal when the robot vacuum cleaner rests on a horizontal surface.

Brève description des figuresBrief description of figures

On comprendra mieux les buts, aspects et avantages de la présente invention, d'après la description donnée ci-après d'un mode particulier de réalisation de l'invention présenté à titre d'exemple non limitatif, en se référant aux dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • [Fig 1] La figure 1 est une vue en perspective de dessus d'un aspirateur robot selon la présente invention.
  • [Fig 2] La figure 2 est une vue en perspective de dessous de l'aspirateur robot de la figure 1.
  • [Fig 3] La figure 3 est une vue de dessous de l'aspirateur robot de la figure 1.
  • [Fig 4] La figure 4 est une vue de face de l'aspirateur robot de la figure 1.
  • [Fig 5] La figure 5 est une vue éclatée en perspective de dessous de l'aspirateur robot de la figure 1.
  • [Fig 6] La figure 6 est une vue à l'échelle agrandi d'un détail de la figure 3.
  • [Fig 7] La figure 7 est une vue partielle de dessous de l'aspirateur robot de la figure 1.
  • [Fig 8] La figure 8 est une vue partielle en perspective de dessous de l'aspirateur robot de la figure 1.
  • [Fig 9] La figure 9 est une vue à l'échelle agrandi d'un détail de la figure 4.
  • [Fig 10] La figure 10 est une vue à l'échelle agrandi d'un détail de la figure 4.
  • [Fig 11] La figure 11 est une vue en perspective d'un premier mode de réalisation d'un premier élément de nettoyage appartenant à l'aspirateur robot de la figure 1.
  • [Fig 12] La figure 12 est une vue en perspective d'un deuxième mode de réalisation d'un premier élément de nettoyage appartenant à l'aspirateur robot de la figure 1.
The aims, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be better understood from the description given below of a particular embodiment of the invention presented by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the appended drawings in which :
  • [ Fig 1 ] There figure 1 is a top perspective view of a robot vacuum cleaner according to the present invention.
  • [ Fig 2 ] There picture 2 is a bottom perspective view of the robot vacuum cleaner from the figure 1 .
  • [ Fig.3 ] There picture 3 is a bottom view of the robot vacuum cleaner from the figure 1 .
  • [ Fig 4 ] There figure 4 is a front view of the robot vacuum cleaner from the figure 1 .
  • [ Fig.5 ] There figure 5 is an exploded bottom perspective view of the robot vacuum cleaner from the figure 1 .
  • [ Fig 6 ] There figure 6 is an enlarged scale view of a detail of the picture 3 .
  • [ Fig 7 ] There figure 7 is a partial bottom view of the robot vacuum cleaner from the figure 1 .
  • [ Fig.8 ] There figure 8 is a partial bottom perspective view of the robot vacuum cleaner from the figure 1 .
  • [ Fig.9 ] There figure 9 is an enlarged scale view of a detail of the figure 4 .
  • [ Fig. 10 ] There figure 10 is an enlarged scale view of a detail of the figure 4 .
  • [ Fig.11 ] There figure 11 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a first cleaning element belonging to the robot vacuum cleaner of the figure 1 .
  • [ Fig. 12 ] There figure 12 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a first cleaning element belonging to the robot vacuum cleaner of the figure 1 .

Description détailléedetailed description

Seuls les éléments nécessaires à la compréhension de l'invention sont représentés. Pour faciliter la lecture des dessins, les mêmes éléments portent les mêmes références d'une figure à l'autre.Only the elements necessary for understanding the invention are represented. To facilitate reading of the drawings, the same elements bear the same references from one figure to another.

On notera que dans ce document, les termes "horizontal", "vertical", "inférieur", "supérieur", "hauteur", "haut, "dessus" employés pour décrire l'aspirateur robot ou le corps principal font références à l'aspirateur robot en situation d'usage lorsqu'il repose par ses roues sur un sol à nettoyer qui est plat et horizontal.It should be noted that in this document, the terms "horizontal", "vertical", "lower", "upper", "height", "top", "top" used to describe the robot vacuum cleaner or the main body refer to the robot vacuum cleaner in a situation of use when it rests by its wheels on a floor to be cleaned which is flat and horizontal.

Les figures 1 à 12 représentent un aspirateur robot 2 configuré pour se déplacer de manière autonome sur une surface à nettoyer.THE figures 1 to 12 represent a robot vacuum cleaner 2 configured to move autonomously over a surface to be cleaned.

L'aspirateur robot 2 comprend un corps principal 3 comportant une face inférieure 4 qui est configurée pour être orientée vers la surface à nettoyer, et une ouverture d'aspiration 5 qui débouche dans la face inférieure 4 du corps principal 3. L'ouverture d'aspiration 5 est allongée et s'étend transversalement, et plus particulièrement perpendiculairement, à une direction de déplacement principale D de l'aspirateur robot 2. De façon avantageuse, l'ouverture d'aspiration 5 présente une forme globalement rectangulaire, et comporte ainsi un bord avant 5.1 et un bord arrière 5.2 qui sont sensiblement parallèles.The robot vacuum cleaner 2 comprises a main body 3 comprising a lower face 4 which is configured to be oriented towards the surface to be cleaned, and a suction opening 5 which opens into the lower face 4 of the body main 3. The suction opening 5 is elongated and extends transversely, and more particularly perpendicularly, to a main direction of movement D of the robot vacuum cleaner 2. Advantageously, the suction opening 5 has a overall rectangular shape, and thus comprises a front edge 5.1 and a rear edge 5.2 which are substantially parallel.

Le corps principal 3 comprend en outre un logement de réception 6 qui est relié fluidiquement à l'ouverture d'aspiration 5.The main body 3 further comprises a receiving housing 6 which is fluidly connected to the suction opening 5.

Selon le mode de réalisation représenté sur les figures, la partie avant 31 du corps principal 3 présente, vue de dessus, une forme globalement rectangulaire et la partie arrière 32 du corps principal 3 présente, vue de dessus, une forme globalement semi-circulaire. Ainsi, le corps principal 3 présente, vu de dessus, une forme générale de D. Toutefois, le corps principal 3 pourrait présenter, vu de dessus, une toute autre forme, et par exemple une forme circulaire ou rectangulaire.According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the front part 31 of the main body 3 has, seen from above, a generally rectangular shape and the rear part 32 of the main body 3 has, seen from above, a generally semi-circular shape. Thus, the main body 3 has, seen from above, a general shape of D. However, the main body 3 could have, seen from above, any other shape, and for example a circular or rectangular shape.

L'aspirateur robot 2 comprend de plus une brosse de nettoyage rotative 7 montée mobile en rotation dans le logement de réception 6 autour d'un axe de rotation A qui s'étend transversalement, et plus particulièrement perpendiculairement, à la direction de déplacement principale D. De façon avantageuse, l'axe de rotation A de la brosse de nettoyage rotative 7 est sensiblement horizontal lorsque l'aspirateur robot 2 repose sur une surface horizontale.The robotic vacuum cleaner 2 further comprises a rotating cleaning brush 7 rotatably mounted in the receiving housing 6 around an axis of rotation A which extends transversely, and more particularly perpendicularly, to the main direction of movement D Advantageously, the axis of rotation A of the rotating cleaning brush 7 is substantially horizontal when the robot vacuum cleaner 2 rests on a horizontal surface.

L'aspirateur robot 2 comprend également un mécanisme d'entraînement (non visible sur les figures) qui est configuré pour entraîner en rotation la brosse de nettoyage rotative 7 autour de l'axe de rotation A.The robotic vacuum cleaner 2 also comprises a drive mechanism (not visible in the figures) which is configured to rotate the rotating cleaning brush 7 around the axis of rotation A.

Comme montré plus particulièrement sur la figure 3, l'aspirateur robot 2 comprend deux roues motrices 8 qui sont montées mobiles en rotation par rapport au corps principal 3, et qui présentent des axes de rotation B sensiblement parallèles, et avantageusement confondus.As shown more particularly on the picture 3 , the robot vacuum cleaner 2 comprises two driving wheels 8 which are mounted so as to be able to rotate with respect to the main body 3, and which have substantially parallel axes of rotation B, and advantageously coincident.

Les deux roues motrices 8 sont configurées pour faire saillie de la face inférieure 4 du corps principal 3, et sont disposées de part et d'autre du plan longitudinal médian P du corps principal 3. De façon avantageuse, les deux roues motrices 8 sont disposées de manière symétrique par rapport au plan longitudinal médian P du corps principal 3.The two driving wheels 8 are configured to project from the lower face 4 of the main body 3, and are arranged on either side of the median longitudinal plane P of the main body 3. Advantageously, the two driving wheels 8 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the median longitudinal plane P of the main body 3.

Les deux roues motrices 8 sont avantageusement motorisées indépendamment l'une de l'autre. Ainsi, l'aspirateur robot 2 comprend deux mécanismes d'entraînement en rotation 9 logés dans le corps principal 3 et configurés chacun pour entraîner en rotation une roue motrice respective par les deux roues motrices 8. Chaque mécanisme d'entraînement en rotation 9 comporte un moteur d'entraînement couplé en rotation à la roue motrice respective et disposé par exemple dans une partie latérale respective du corps principal 3 ou dans la partie arrière 32 du corps principal 3. Selon la commande des deux moteurs d'entraînement précités, le corps principal 3 peut pivoter à gauche, à droite ou sur lui-même, avancer ou encore reculer.The two drive wheels 8 are advantageously motorized independently of each other. Thus, the robot vacuum cleaner 2 comprises two rotation drive mechanisms 9 housed in the main body 3 and each configured to drive a respective drive wheel in rotation by the two drive wheels 8. Each rotation drive mechanism 9 comprises a drive motor coupled in rotation to the respective drive wheel and arranged for example in a respective side part of the main body 3 or in the rear part 32 of the main body 3. According to the control of the two aforementioned drive motors, the main body 3 can pivot left, right or on itself, move forward or backward.

Selon le mode de réalisation représenté sur les figures, l'aspirateur robot 2 comporte des roues additionnelles 11 montées libres en rotation par rapport au corps principal 3 et disposées sur la partie avant 31 du corps principal 3, et par exemple entre un bord avant 3.10 du corps principal 3 et le bord avant 5.1 de l'ouverture d'aspiration 5. De façon avantageuse, les roues additionnelles sont au nombre de deux et sont disposées de manière symétrique par rapport au plan longitudinal médian P du corps principal 3.According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the robot vacuum cleaner 2 comprises additional wheels 11 mounted free to rotate relative to the main body 3 and arranged on the front part 31 of the main body 3, and for example between a front edge 3.10 of the main body 3 and the front edge 5.1 of the suction opening 5. Advantageously, the additional wheels are two in number and are arranged symmetrically with respect to the median longitudinal plane P of the main body 3.

L'aspirateur robot 2 comprend en outre une unité d'aspiration (non visible sur les figures) qui est logée dans le corps principal 3. L'unité d'aspiration comprend un moteur électrique et un ventilateur couplé au moteur électrique pour générer un flux d'air à travers l'ouverture d'aspiration 5 et le logement de réception.The robot vacuum cleaner 2 further comprises a suction unit (not visible in the figures) which is housed in the main body 3. The suction unit comprises an electric motor and a fan coupled to the electric motor to generate a flow of air through the suction opening 5 and the receiving housing.

L'aspirateur robot 2 comprend également un dispositif de collecte de déchets (non visible sur les figures) qui est disposé en amont de l'unité d'aspiration et qui est traversé par le flux d'air généré par le ventilateur lorsque l'aspirateur robot 2 est en fonctionnement.The robot vacuum cleaner 2 also comprises a waste collection device (not visible in the figures) which is arranged upstream of the unit suction and which is crossed by the air flow generated by the fan when the robot vacuum cleaner 2 is in operation.

L'aspirateur robot 2 comporte également une batterie d'alimentation 15 configurée pour alimenter électriquement les différents composants électriques logés dans le corps principal 3. De façon avantageuse, la batterie d'alimentation 15 est rechargeable et est logée dans le corps principal 3.The robot vacuum cleaner 2 also comprises a power supply battery 15 configured to electrically supply the various electrical components housed in the main body 3. Advantageously, the power supply battery 15 is rechargeable and is housed in the main body 3.

L'aspirateur robot 2 comprend de plus un dispositif de commande 13 qui est configuré pour commander le fonctionnement de l'aspirateur robot 2, et en particulier pour commander les déplacements du corps principal 3 par exemple selon des déplacements aléatoires ou méthodiques.The robot vacuum cleaner 2 further comprises a control device 13 which is configured to control the operation of the robot vacuum cleaner 2, and in particular to control the movements of the main body 3 for example according to random or methodical movements.

Le dispositif de commande 13 est notamment configuré pour commander les mécanismes d'entraînement en rotation précités à partir de données reçues de différents capteurs disposés sur le corps principal 3, tels que des capteurs de proximité, des capteurs de contact et/ou des capteurs de chute. Le dispositif de commande 13 peut par exemple comporter une carte électronique configurée pour recevoir et traiter ces différentes données.The control device 13 is in particular configured to control the aforementioned rotation drive mechanisms based on data received from various sensors arranged on the main body 3, such as proximity sensors, contact sensors and/or fall. The control device 13 can for example include an electronic card configured to receive and process these different data.

L'aspirateur robot 2 comporte en outre un émetteur/récepteur 14 qui est configuré pour communiquer avec une station d'accueil configurée pour accueillir l'aspirateur robot 2, notamment lors des phases de recharge de la batterie d'alimentation 15 de ce dernier.The robot vacuum cleaner 2 further comprises a transmitter/receiver 14 which is configured to communicate with a docking station configured to accommodate the robot vacuum cleaner 2, in particular during the recharging phases of the supply battery 15 of the latter.

Comme montré sur la figure 2, l'aspirateur robot 2 comprend un premier élément de nettoyage latéral 16 et un deuxième élément de nettoyage latéral 17 qui sont fixes par rapport au corps principal 3. Les premier et deuxièmes éléments de nettoyage latéraux 16, 17 sont situés sur la partie avant 31 du corps principal 3 et sont disposés respectivement au voisinage d'un premier bord latéral 3.11 et d'un deuxième bord latéral 3.12 du corps principal 3. De façon avantageuse, les premier et deuxième éléments de nettoyage latéraux 16, 17 sont situés à l'avant du bord avant 5.1 de l'ouverture d'aspiration 5, et sont disposés en retrait du bord avant 3.10 du corps principal 3.As shown on the figure 2 , the robotic vacuum cleaner 2 comprises a first side cleaning element 16 and a second side cleaning element 17 which are fixed with respect to the main body 3. The first and second side cleaning elements 16, 17 are located on the front part 31 of the main body 3 and are arranged respectively in the vicinity of a first side edge 3.11 and a second side edge 3.12 of the main body 3. Advantageously, the first and second side cleaning elements 16, 17 are located at the front of the front edge 5.1 of the suction opening 5, and are set back from the front edge 3.10 of the main body 3.

Selon le mode de réalisation représenté sur les figures, les premier et deuxièmes éléments de nettoyage latéraux 16, 17 sont disposés de manière symétrique par rapport au plan longitudinal médian P du corps principal 3.According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the first and second side cleaning elements 16, 17 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the median longitudinal plane P of the main body 3.

De façon avantageuse, le premier élément de nettoyage latéral 16 fait saillie de la face inférieure 4 du corps principal 3 d'une première hauteur de saillie qui est sensiblement constante le long du premier élément de nettoyage latéral 16, et le deuxième élément de nettoyage latéral 17 fait saillie de la face inférieure 4 du corps principal 3 d'une deuxième hauteur de saillie qui est sensiblement constante le long du deuxième élément de nettoyage latéral 17 et qui est sensiblement identique à la première hauteur de saille.Advantageously, the first side cleaning element 16 projects from the lower face 4 of the main body 3 by a first projection height which is substantially constant along the first side cleaning element 16, and the second side cleaning element 17 protrudes from the lower face 4 of the main body 3 by a second protrusion height which is substantially constant along the second side cleaning element 17 and which is substantially identical to the first protrusion height.

Selon le mode de réalisation représenté sur les figures, les premier et deuxième éléments de nettoyage latéraux sont allongés et s'étend globalement respectivement selon une première direction d'extension DE1 et une deuxième direction d'extension DE2.According to the embodiment represented in the figures, the first and second lateral cleaning elements are elongated and generally extend respectively along a first direction of extension DE1 and a second direction of extension DE2.

Le premier élément de nettoyage latéral 16 comporte une première partie de fixation 18 qui est allongée et qui est fixée dans une première rainure de réception 19 prévue sur le corps principal 3, et une première partie de nettoyage 21 qui est fixée à la première partie de fixation 18 et qui fait saillie hors de la première rainure de réception 19. De façon similaire, le deuxième élément de nettoyage latéral 17 comporte une deuxième partie de fixation 22 qui est allongée et qui est fixée dans une deuxième rainure de réception 23 prévue sur le corps principal 3, et une deuxième partie de nettoyage 24 qui est fixée à la deuxième partie de fixation 22 et qui fait saillie hors de la deuxième rainure de réception 23. De façon avantageuse, les première et deuxième directions d'extension DE1, DE2 sont respectivement définies par les directions d'extension des première et deuxième parties de fixation 18, 22.The first side cleaning member 16 has a first fixing part 18 which is elongated and which is fixed in a first receiving groove 19 provided on the main body 3, and a first cleaning part 21 which is fixed to the first part of attachment 18 and which projects out of the first receiving groove 19. Similarly, the second side cleaning member 17 has a second attachment part 22 which is elongated and which is fixed in a second receiving groove 23 provided on the main body 3, and a second cleaning part 24 which is fixed to the second fixing part 22 and which protrudes out of the second receiving groove 23. Advantageously, the first and second directions of extension DE1, DE2 are respectively defined by the directions of extension of the first and second fixing parts 18, 22.

De façon avantageuse, chacune des première et deuxième parties de nettoyage 21, 24 est flexible et présente une forme globalement plate.Advantageously, each of the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 is flexible and has a generally flat shape.

Selon le mode de réalisation représenté sur les figures, chacune des première et deuxième rainures de réception 19, 23 présente une section transversale en T, et chacune des première et deuxième parties de fixation 18, 22 présente une section transversale globalement rectangulaire. Toutefois, les première et deuxième rainures de réception 19, 23 et les première et deuxième parties de fixation 18, 22 pourraient présenter des sections transversales de toutes autres formes.According to the embodiment shown in the figures, each of the first and second receiving grooves 19, 23 have a T-shaped cross-section, and each of the first and second attachment portions 18, 22 have a generally rectangular cross-section. However, the first and second receiving grooves 19, 23 and the first and second fixing parts 18, 22 could have cross sections of any other shape.

Selon le mode de réalisation représenté sur les figures 1 à 12, les première et deuxième rainures de réception 19, 23 sont ménagées sur la face inférieure 4 du corps principal 3, et s'étendent globalement respectivement selon des première et deuxième directions de rainure DR1, DR2 qui convergent l'une vers l'autre en direction de la partie arrière 32 du corps principal 3. Les première et deuxième directions de rainure DR1, DR2 sont respectivement inclinées par rapport au plan longitudinal médian P du corps principal 3 d'un angle d'inclinaison β1 et d'un angle d'inclinaison β2 qui sont chacun compris entre 20 et 40°, par exemple entre 25 et 35°, et avantageusement d'environ 30°.According to the embodiment shown in the figures 1 to 12 , the first and second receiving grooves 19, 23 are provided on the lower face 4 of the main body 3, and extend globally respectively along first and second groove directions DR1, DR2 which converge towards each other in direction of the rear part 32 of the main body 3. The first and second groove directions DR1, DR2 are respectively inclined with respect to the median longitudinal plane P of the main body 3 by an angle of inclination β1 and an angle of inclination β2 which are each between 20 and 40°, for example between 25 and 35°, and advantageously around 30°.

Comme montré plus particulièrement sur la figure 3, les première et deuxième parties de nettoyage 21, 24 sont allongées et convergent l'une vers l'autre en direction de la partie arrière 32 du corps principal 3. En d'autres termes, les bords avant 210, 240 des première et deuxième parties de nettoyage 21, 24 sont distants d'une première distance de séparation et les bord arrière 211, 241 des première et deuxième parties de nettoyage 21, 24 sont distants d'une deuxième distance de séparation qui est inférieure à la première distance de séparation.As shown more particularly on the picture 3 , the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 are elongated and converge towards each other in the direction of the rear part 32 of the main body 3. In other words, the front edges 210, 240 of the first and second cleaning portions 21, 24 are separated by a first separation distance and the trailing edges 211, 241 of the first and second cleaning portions 21, 24 are separated by a second separation distance which is less than the first separation distance .

Ainsi, les première et deuxième parties de nettoyage 21, 24 sont configurées pour orienter et guider des déchets, qui viennent au contact de l'une ou l'autre des première et deuxième parties de nettoyage 21, 24, vers l'ouverture d'aspiration 5 lorsque l'aspirateur robot 2 se déplace selon la direction de déplacement principale D.Thus, the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 are configured to orient and guide waste, which comes into contact with one or the other of the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24, towards the opening of suction 5 when the robot vacuum cleaner 2 moves in the main direction of movement D.

Selon le mode de réalisation représenté sur les figures 1 à 12, les première et deuxième directions d'extension DE1, DE2 sont sensiblement horizontales lorsque l'aspirateur robot 2 repose, par ses roues motrices 8, sur une surface horizontale. Toutefois, chacune des première et deuxième directions d'extension DE1, DE2 pourrait être inclinée par rapport à l'horizontale par exemple d'un angle d'inclinaison compris entre ± 20°, et avantageusement ± 10°. Chacune des première et deuxième directions d'extension DE1, DE2 est avantageusement inclinée par rapport au plan longitudinal médian P du corps principal 3 d'un angle d'inclinaison compris entre 20 et 40°, par exemple entre 25 et 35°, et avantageusement d'environ 30°.According to the embodiment shown in the figures 1 to 12 , THE first and second directions of extension DE1, DE2 are substantially horizontal when the robot vacuum cleaner 2 rests, via its drive wheels 8, on a horizontal surface. However, each of the first and second directions of extension DE1, DE2 could be inclined with respect to the horizontal, for example by an angle of inclination comprised between ±20°, and advantageously ±10°. Each of the first and second directions of extension DE1, DE2 is advantageously inclined with respect to the median longitudinal plane P of the main body 3 by an angle of inclination comprised between 20 and 40°, for example between 25 and 35°, and advantageously of about 30°.

Les première et deuxième directions d'extension DE1, DE2 peuvent être respectivement sensiblement parallèles aux première et deuxième directions de rainure DR1, DR2, ou être légèrement inclinées respectivement par rapport aux première et deuxième directions de rainure DR1, DR2.The first and second directions of extension DE1, DE2 can be respectively substantially parallel to the first and second directions of groove DR1, DR2, or be slightly inclined respectively with respect to the first and second directions of groove DR1, DR2.

Les première et deuxième parties de nettoyage 21, 24 peuvent respectivement être formées par une première lamelle de nettoyage et une deuxième lamelle de nettoyage qui sont élastiquement déformables (voir notamment les figures 2, 3, 6 et 11). Cependant, selon une variante de réalisation de l'invention, les première et deuxième parties de nettoyage 21, 24 peuvent être formées respectivement par une ou plusieurs première(s) rangée(s) de poils ou de touffes de poils s'étendant selon la première direction d'extension DE1 et une ou plusieurs deuxième(s) rangée(s) de poils ou de touffes de poils s'étendant selon la deuxième direction d'extension DE2 (voir notamment les figures 4, 7, 9, 10 et 12). Selon une telle variante de réalisation de l'invention, les premier et deuxième éléments de nettoyage latéraux 16, 17 forment alors des première et deuxième brosses de nettoyage latérales qui sont fixes par rapport au corps principal 3.The first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 may respectively be formed by a first cleaning lamella and a second cleaning lamella which are elastically deformable (see in particular the figure 2 , 3 , 6 And 11 ). However, according to a variant embodiment of the invention, the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 may be formed respectively by one or more first row(s) of bristles or tufts of bristles extending along the first direction of extension DE1 and one or more second row(s) of bristles or tufts of bristles extending along the second direction of extension DE2 (see in particular the figure 4 , 7 , 9, 10 And 12 ). According to such a variant embodiment of the invention, the first and second side cleaning elements 16, 17 then form first and second side cleaning brushes which are fixed relative to the main body 3.

Selon le mode de réalisation représenté sur les figures, les première et deuxième parties de nettoyage 21, 24 sont torsadées respectivement selon les première et deuxième directions d'extension DE1, DE2, de telle sorte que la première partie de nettoyage 21 présente une inclinaison, par rapport à l'horizontale, qui varie le long de la première partie de nettoyage 21, et de telle sorte que la deuxième partie de nettoyage 24 présente une inclinaison, par rapport à l'horizontale, qui varie le long de la deuxième partie de nettoyage 24. De façon avantageuse, les première et deuxième parties de nettoyage 21, 24 sont torsadées de telle sorte que l'inclinaison de la première partie de nettoyage 21, par rapport à l'horizontale, augmente en direction du bord arrière 211 de la première partie de nettoyage 21, et de telle sorte que l'inclinaison de la deuxième partie de nettoyage 24, par rapport à l'horizontale, augmente en direction du bord arrière 241 de la deuxième partie de nettoyage 24.According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 are twisted respectively along the first and second directions of extension DE1, DE2, so that the first cleaning part 21 has an inclination, compared to the horizontal, which varies along the first cleaning part 21, and such that the second cleaning part 24 has an inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which varies along the second cleaning part 24. Advantageously, the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 are twisted in such a way that the inclination of the first cleaning part 21, with respect to the horizontal, increases towards the rear edge 211 of the first cleaning part. cleaning 21, and so that the inclination of the second cleaning part 24, relative to the horizontal, increases towards the rear edge 241 of the second cleaning part 24.

Comme montré sur les figures 9 et 10, la première partie de nettoyage 21 comporte une première portion de paroi avant 21.1 qui est inclinée vers le bas et latéralement vers l'extérieur du corps principal 3, et la deuxième partie de nettoyage 24 comporte une deuxième portion de paroi avant 24.1 qui est inclinée vers le bas et latéralement vers l'extérieur du corps principal 3. Les première et deuxième portions avant 21.1, 24.1 sont respectivement inclinées par rapport à l'horizontale d'un angle d'inclinaison α1 et d'un angle d'inclinaison α2 qui sont chacun compris entre 30 et 60°, et avantageusement entre 35 et 45°.As shown on the figures 9 and 10 , the first cleaning part 21 comprises a first front wall portion 21.1 which is inclined downwards and laterally towards the outside of the main body 3, and the second cleaning part 24 comprises a second front wall portion 24.1 which is inclined downwards and laterally outwards from the main body 3. The first and second front portions 21.1, 24.1 are respectively inclined with respect to the horizontal by an angle of inclination α1 and an angle of inclination α2 which are each between 30 and 60°, and advantageously between 35 and 45°.

Comme montré sur les figures 9 et 10, la première partie de nettoyage 21 comporte une première portion de paroi arrière 21.2 qui est inclinée par rapport à l'horizontale d'un angle d'inclinaison α3 compris entre 70 et 90°, avantageusement entre 80 et 90°, et la deuxième partie de nettoyage 24 comporte une deuxième portion de paroi arrière 24.2 qui est également inclinée par rapport à l'horizontale d'un angle d'inclinaison α4 compris entre 70 et 90°, avantageusement entre 80 et 90°. De façon avantageuse, la première portion de paroi arrière 21.2 est inclinée vers le bas et latéralement vers l'extérieur du corps principal 3, et la deuxième portion de paroi arrière 24.2 est inclinée vers le bas et latéralement vers l'extérieur du corps principal 3.As shown on the figures 9 and 10 , the first cleaning part 21 comprises a first rear wall portion 21.2 which is inclined with respect to the horizontal by an angle of inclination α3 comprised between 70 and 90°, advantageously between 80 and 90°, and the second part cleaning 24 comprises a second rear wall portion 24.2 which is also inclined with respect to the horizontal by an angle of inclination α4 comprised between 70 and 90°, advantageously between 80 and 90°. Advantageously, the first portion of rear wall 21.2 is inclined downwards and laterally towards the exterior of the main body 3, and the second portion of rear wall 24.2 is inclined downwards and laterally towards the exterior of the main body 3 .

Selon le mode de réalisation représenté sur les figures, la première portion de paroi avant 21.1 fait saillie latéralement par rapport au premier bord latéral 3.11 du corps principal 3 et la première portion de paroi arrière 21.2 est située en retrait du premier bord latéral 3.11 du corps principal 3. De façon similaire, la deuxième portion de paroi avant 24.1 fait saillie latéralement par rapport au deuxième bord latéral 3.12 du corps principal 3, et la deuxième portion de paroi arrière 24.2 est située en retrait du deuxième bord latéral 3.12 du corps principal 3.According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the first front wall portion 21.1 projects laterally relative to the first side edge 3.11 of the main body 3 and the first rear wall portion 21.2 is located set back from the first side edge 3.11 of the main body 3. Similarly, the second front wall portion 24.1 projects laterally relative to the second side edge 3.12 of the main body 3, and the second rear wall portion 24.2 is located withdrawal of the second lateral edge 3.12 from the main body 3.

De façon avantageuse, la première partie de fixation 18 est située en retrait du premier bord latéral 3.11 du corps principal 3, et la deuxième partie de fixation 22 est également située en retrait du deuxième bord latéral 3.12 du corps principal 3. Ces dispositions permettent d'éviter que les première et deuxième parties de fixation 18, 22, qui sont généralement plus rigides que les première et deuxième parties de nettoyage 21, 24, entrent en contact avec les obstacles rencontrés par l'aspirateur robot, et dégradent ces obstacles ou bloquent l'aspirateur robot.Advantageously, the first fixing part 18 is set back from the first side edge 3.11 of the main body 3, and the second fixing part 22 is also set back from the second side edge 3.12 of the main body 3. These arrangements make it possible to to prevent the first and second fixing parts 18, 22, which are generally more rigid than the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24, from coming into contact with the obstacles encountered by the robot vacuum cleaner, and degrading these obstacles or blocking the robot vacuum cleaner.

Comme montré sur la figure 3, la première partie de nettoyage 21 comporte un premier bord allongé inférieur 25 qui s'étend sur toute la longueur de la première partie de nettoyage 21 et qui est configuré pour être en contact avec une surface à nettoyer lorsque l'aspirateur robot 2 repose sur la surface à nettoyer, et la deuxième partie de nettoyage 24 comporte un deuxième bord allongé inférieur 26 qui s'étend sur toute la longueur de la deuxième partie de nettoyage 24 et qui est configuré pour être en contact avec la surface à nettoyer lorsque l'aspirateur robot 2 repose sur ladite surface à nettoyer.As shown on the picture 3 , the first cleaning part 21 has a first lower elongated edge 25 which extends along the entire length of the first cleaning part 21 and which is configured to be in contact with a surface to be cleaned when the robot vacuum cleaner 2 rests on the surface to be cleaned, and the second cleaning part 24 has a second lower elongated edge 26 which extends the entire length of the second cleaning part 24 and which is configured to contact the surface to be cleaned when the robot vacuum cleaner 2 rests on said surface to be cleaned.

Selon le mode de réalisation représenté sur les figures, l'extrémité arrière du premier bord allongé inférieur 25 et une première extrémité 7.1 de la brosse de nettoyage rotative 7 sont situées sensiblement à une même distance du premier bord latéral 3.11 du corps principal 3, et l'extrémité arrière du deuxième bord allongé inférieur 26 et une deuxième extrémité 7.2 de la brosse de nettoyage rotative 7 sont situées sensiblement à une même distance du deuxième bord latéral 3.12 du corps principal 3. De façon avantageuse, l'extrémité arrière du premier bord allongé inférieur 25 est située au voisinage de la première extrémité 7.1 de la brosse de nettoyage rotative 7, et l'extrémité arrière du deuxième bord allongé inférieur 26 est située au voisinage de la deuxième extrémité 7.2 de la brosse de nettoyage rotative 7.According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the rear end of the first lower elongated edge 25 and a first end 7.1 of the rotating cleaning brush 7 are located substantially at the same distance from the first lateral edge 3.11 of the main body 3, and the rear end of the second lower elongated edge 26 and a second end 7.2 of the rotary cleaning brush 7 are located substantially at the same distance from the second lateral edge 3.12 of the main body 3. Advantageously, the rear end of the first edge lower elongate 25 is located in the vicinity of the first end 7.1 of the rotating cleaning brush 7, and the end rear of the second lower elongated edge 26 is located in the vicinity of the second end 7.2 of the rotating cleaning brush 7.

Comme indiqué précédemment, les première et deuxième parties de nettoyage 21, 24 sont torsadées respectivement selon les première et deuxième directions d'extension DE1, DE2. Une telle torsion des première et deuxième parties de nettoyage 21, 24 peut être obtenue de diverses façons.As indicated previously, the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 are twisted respectively along the first and second directions of extension DE1, DE2. Such twisting of the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 can be achieved in various ways.

A cet effet, l'aspirateur robot 2 peut par exemple comporter une ou plusieurs première(s) surface(s) de déformation configurée(s) pour déformer le premier élément de nettoyage latéral 16 de telle sorte que la première partie de nettoyage 21 soit torsadée selon la première direction d'extension DE1 et présente donc une inclinaison, par rapport à l'horizontale, qui varie le long de la première partie de nettoyage 21, et une ou plusieurs deuxième(s) surface(s) de déformation configurée(s) pour déformer le deuxième élément de nettoyage latéral 17 de telle sorte que la deuxième partie de nettoyage 24 soit torsadée selon la deuxième direction d'extension DE2 et présente donc une inclinaison, par rapport à l'horizontale, qui varie le long de la deuxième partie de nettoyage 24.To this end, the robot vacuum cleaner 2 can for example comprise one or more first deformation surface(s) configured to deform the first lateral cleaning element 16 in such a way that the first cleaning part 21 is twisted along the first direction of extension DE1 and therefore has an inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which varies along the first cleaning part 21, and one or more second (s) surface (s) of deformation configured ( s) to deform the second lateral cleaning element 17 so that the second cleaning part 24 is twisted in the second direction of extension DE2 and therefore has an inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which varies along the second cleaning part 24.

Selon le mode de réalisation représenté sur les figures 1 à 12, la paroi de fond et les parois latérales de la première rainure de réception 19 sont torsadées et forment ainsi les premières surfaces de déformation précitées, et la paroi de fond et les parois latérales de la deuxième rainure de réception 23 sont torsadées et forment ainsi les deuxièmes surfaces de déformation précitées.According to the embodiment shown in the figures 1 to 12 , the bottom wall and the side walls of the first receiving groove 19 are twisted and thus form the aforementioned first deformation surfaces, and the bottom wall and the side walls of the second receiving groove 23 are twisted and thus form the second aforementioned deformation surfaces.

Selon une variante de réalisation de l'invention non représentée sur les figures, la paroi de fond de chacune des première et deuxième rainures de réception 19, 23 pourrait être planes, et seules les parois latérales de la première rainure de réception 19 pourraient former les premières surfaces de déformation précitées et seules les parois latérales de la deuxième rainure de réception 23 pourraient former les deuxièmes surfaces de déformation précitées. Selon encore une autre variante de réalisation de l'invention non représentée sur les figures, l'aspirateur robot 2 pourrait comporter une unique première surface de déformation qui serait formée par l'une des parois latérales de la première rainure de réception 19 et une unique deuxième surface de déformation qui serait formée par l'une des parois latérales de la deuxième rainure de réception 23.According to a variant embodiment of the invention not shown in the figures, the bottom wall of each of the first and second receiving grooves 19, 23 could be flat, and only the side walls of the first receiving groove 19 could form the aforementioned first deformation surfaces and only the side walls of the second receiving groove 23 could form the aforementioned second deformation surfaces. According to yet another alternative embodiment of the invention not shown in the figures, the robot vacuum cleaner 2 could comprise a single first deformation surface which would be formed by one of the side walls of the first receiving groove 19 and a single second deformation surface which would be formed by one of the side walls of the second receiving groove 23.

Selon une autre variante de réalisation de l'invention non représentée sur les figures, le corps principal 3 pourrait comporter un premier organe de déformation, tel qu'une nervure de déformation, qui est prévu sur la face inférieure 4 du corps principal 3 et qui comprend une première surface de déformation, et un deuxième organe de déformation, tel qu'une nervure de déformation, qui est prévu sur la face inférieure 4 du corps principal 3 et qui comprend une deuxième surface de déformation.According to another alternative embodiment of the invention not shown in the figures, the main body 3 could comprise a first deformation member, such as a deformation rib, which is provided on the lower face 4 of the main body 3 and which comprises a first deformation surface, and a second deformation member, such as a deformation rib, which is provided on the lower face 4 of the main body 3 and which comprises a second deformation surface.

Selon une autre variante de réalisation de l'invention, l'aspirateur robot 2 pourrait être dépourvu de première et deuxième surface de déformation, et les première et deuxième parties de nettoyage 21, 24 pourraient être conformées de manière à être torsadées.According to another alternative embodiment of the invention, the robot vacuum cleaner 2 could have no first and second deformation surface, and the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 could be shaped so as to be twisted.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention non représenté sur les figures, l'extrémité arrière du premier bord allongé inférieur 25 pourrait être située au voisinage d'un premier bord latéral de l'ouverture d'aspiration 5, et l'extrémité arrière du deuxième bord allongé inférieur 26 pourrait être située au voisinage d'un deuxième bord latéral de l'ouverture d'aspiration 5.According to an embodiment of the invention not shown in the figures, the rear end of the first lower elongated edge 25 could be located in the vicinity of a first lateral edge of the suction opening 5, and the rear end of the second lower elongated edge 26 could be located in the vicinity of a second lateral edge of the suction opening 5.

Selon un mode de réalisation non représenté sur les figures, les première et deuxième parties de nettoyage 21, 24 pourraient être planes (et non pas torsadées) et présenter chacune une inclinaison, par rapport à l'horizontale, qui serait constante le long de la direction respective parmi les première et deuxième directions d'extension DE1, DE2.According to an embodiment not shown in the figures, the first and second cleaning parts 21, 24 could be flat (and not twisted) and each have an inclination, relative to the horizontal, which would be constant along the respective direction among the first and second directions of extension DE1, DE2.

Selon un autre mode de réalisation non représenté sur les figures, les première et deuxième rainures de réception 19, 23 pourraient être sensiblement parallèles au plan longitudinal médian P du corps principal 3.According to another embodiment not shown in the figures, the first and second receiving grooves 19, 23 could be substantially parallel to the median longitudinal plane P of the main body 3.

Bien entendu, l'invention n'est nullement limitée au mode de réalisation décrit et illustré qui n'a été donné qu'à titre d'exemple. Des modifications restent possibles, notamment du point de vue de la constitution des divers éléments ou par substitution d'équivalents techniques, sans sortir pour autant du domaine de protection de l'invention.Of course, the invention is in no way limited to the embodiment described and illustrated which has been given only by way of example. Modifications remain possible, in particular from the point of view of the constitution of the various elements or by substitution of technical equivalents, without thereby departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims (16)

  1. Robot vacuum cleaner (2) comprising:
    - a main body (3) comprising a lower face (4) which is configured to be oriented towards a surface to be cleaned, a suctioning opening (5) opening into the lower face (4) of the main body (3) and extending transversally in a main movement direction (D) of the robot vacuum cleaner, and a receiving housing (6) fluidically connected to the suctioning opening (5),
    - a rotary cleaning brush (7) rotatably movably mounted in the receiving housing (6) about an axis of rotation (A) which extends transversally in the main movement direction (D) of the robot vacuum cleaner (2), and
    - a first lateral cleaning element (16) mounted on a front part (31) of the main body (3) and located in the vicinity of a first lateral edge (3.11) of the main body (3), the first lateral cleaning element (16) comprising a first cleaning part (21) which is flexible, wherein the first lateral cleaning element (16) is fixed with respect to the main body (3), and in that the first cleaning part (21) is configured to orient waste, which comes into contact with the first cleaning part (21) when the robot vacuum cleaner (2) moves in the main movement direction (D), towards the suctioning opening (5),
    characterised in that the first cleaning part (21) has an inclination, with respect to the horizontal, which varies along the first cleaning part (21).
  2. Robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to claim 1, wherein the distance between a front edge of the first cleaning part (21) and the median longitudinal plane (P) of the main body (3) is greater than the distance between a rear edge of the first cleaning part (21) and the median longitudinal plane (P) of the main body (3).
  3. Robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first lateral cleaning element (16) is extended and mainly extends in a first extension direction (DE1).
  4. Robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to claim 3, wherein the first cleaning part (21) is twisted in the first extension direction (DE1).
  5. Robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first cleaning part (21) has a mainly flat shape.
  6. Robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least one portion of the first cleaning part (21) is inclined with respect to the horizontal and to the vertical when the robot vacuum cleaner (2) rests on a horizontal surface.
  7. Robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first cleaning part (21) comprises a first front wall portion (21.1) which is inclined downwards and laterally outwards from the main body (3).
  8. Robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to claim 7, wherein the first front wall portion (21.1) is inclined with respect to the horizontal by a tilt angle (a1) of between 30 and 60°.
  9. Robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first cleaning part (21) comprises a first rear wall portion (21.2) which is inclined with respect to the horizontal by a tilt angle (a3) of between 70 and 90°.
  10. Robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least one portion of the first cleaning part (21) laterally projects with respect to the first lateral edge (3.11) of the main body (3).
  11. Robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first lateral cleaning element (16) comprises a first fixing part (18) which is fixed in a first receiving groove (19) provided on the main body (3), the first cleaning part (21) being supported by the first fixing part (18).
  12. Robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first lateral cleaning element (16) is located at the front of the axis of rotation of the rotary cleaning brush.
  13. Robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first lateral cleaning element (16) is formed by a first lateral cleaning brush.
  14. Robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first cleaning part (21) is formed by a first cleaning strip, which is resiliently deformable.
  15. Robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, which further comprises a second lateral cleaning element (17) mounted on the front part (31) of the main body (3) and located in the vicinity of a second lateral edge (3.12) of the main body (3), the second lateral cleaning element (17) being fixed with respect to the main body (3) and comprising a second cleaning part (24) which is flexible, the first and second cleaning parts (21, 24) being configured to orient waste, which come into contact with the first and second cleaning parts (21, 24) when the robot vacuum cleaner (2) moves in the main movement direction (D), towards the suctioning opening (5).
  16. Robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to claim 15, wherein the first and second cleaning parts (21, 24) converge towards one another in the direction of a rear part (32) of the main body (3).
EP22157108.6A 2021-02-18 2022-02-16 Robot vacuum cleaner equipped with at least one fixed lateral cleaning element Active EP4046557B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR2101608A FR3119748B1 (en) 2021-02-18 2021-02-18 Robot vacuum cleaner equipped with at least one fixed side cleaning element

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EP4046557A1 EP4046557A1 (en) 2022-08-24
EP4046557C0 EP4046557C0 (en) 2023-08-30
EP4046557B1 true EP4046557B1 (en) 2023-08-30

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US (1) US11717121B2 (en)
EP (1) EP4046557B1 (en)
JP (1) JP2022126622A (en)
KR (1) KR20220118341A (en)
CN (1) CN115005712A (en)
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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4219902A (en) * 1979-02-09 1980-09-02 Oreck Corporation Vacuum cleaning
GB2372432A (en) * 2001-02-24 2002-08-28 Dyson Ltd A cleaning head with side bristles for a vacuum cleaner
KR100677276B1 (en) * 2005-04-28 2007-02-02 엘지전자 주식회사 Apparatus for cleaning the front portion of the driving wheel of a robot-cleaner
US20080092324A1 (en) * 2006-10-18 2008-04-24 Guten Electronics Industrial Co., Ltd. Dust-collecting auxiliary device for vacuum cleaner
US10678254B1 (en) * 2017-09-28 2020-06-09 Amazon Technologies, Inc. Automated drive units with cleaning modules for inventory systems
US20220273147A1 (en) * 2019-07-19 2022-09-01 Techtronic Cordless Gp Floor cleaner

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FR3119748B1 (en) 2023-06-23
CN115005712A (en) 2022-09-06
EP4046557C0 (en) 2023-08-30
KR20220118341A (en) 2022-08-25
JP2022126622A (en) 2022-08-30
US20220257073A1 (en) 2022-08-18
EP4046557A1 (en) 2022-08-24
US11717121B2 (en) 2023-08-08
FR3119748A1 (en) 2022-08-19

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