WO2019220467A1 - Self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning - Google Patents
Self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2019220467A1 WO2019220467A1 PCT/IT2018/000070 IT2018000070W WO2019220467A1 WO 2019220467 A1 WO2019220467 A1 WO 2019220467A1 IT 2018000070 W IT2018000070 W IT 2018000070W WO 2019220467 A1 WO2019220467 A1 WO 2019220467A1
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- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- cleaning apparatus
- operator
- control
- command
- cleaning
- Prior art date
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Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
- E01H—STREET CLEANING; CLEANING OF PERMANENT WAYS; CLEANING BEACHES; DISPERSING OR PREVENTING FOG IN GENERAL CLEANING STREET OR RAILWAY FURNITURE OR TUNNEL WALLS
- E01H1/00—Removing undesirable matter from roads or like surfaces, with or without moistening of the surface
- E01H1/08—Pneumatically dislodging or taking-up undesirable matter or small objects; Drying by heat only or by streams of gas; Cleaning by projecting abrasive particles
- E01H1/0827—Dislodging by suction; Mechanical dislodging-cleaning apparatus with independent or dependent exhaust, e.g. dislodging-sweeping machines with independent suction nozzles ; Mechanical loosening devices working under vacuum
- E01H1/0836—Apparatus dislodging all of the dirt by suction ; Suction nozzles
- E01H1/0845—Apparatus dislodging all of the dirt by suction ; Suction nozzles with mechanical loosening or feeding instruments for the dirt to be sucked- up, e.g. brushes, scrapers
Definitions
- the invention relates to a self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning, adapted to be used in environments of considerable dimensions, both indoor and outdoor, as for example floors of industrial areas, commercial areas, healthcare areas, etc., or parking lots, roads, wharfs, pedestrian zones, floors of great ships, etc., in such a way that an operator may collect and remove selectively through suction all the waste of the non-recyclable type and organic type, and all the filth, both artificial and natural, both liquid and solid, as for example oils, powder, loam, isolated faeces, dead branches, etc., that are on the ground, into storm drains, little channels and/or grids, and also into suitable containers.
- Such a motorized truck comprises substantially a frame onto which there are secured an electric motor, a plurality of lower wheels, of which at least one on the front is steering, wherein the electric motor is connected to and/or integrated into at least one of said wheels.
- such a motorized truck comprises also a front command lever, fixed on the upper part of the front steering wheel, and adapted to actuate the electric motor, to which it is electronically connected and to let steer the same motorized truck.
- the cleaning operator by handling the command lever, may command the forward movement of such a motorized truck by lowering the same lever that actuate the motor, that in turns actuates the wheels, thereby let the truck move forward without additional human force use, furthermore by moving laterally the lever, there is allowed to the motorized truck to steer.
- the suction and collecting system mounted onto said motorized truck in its first embodiment is constituted by a motorized suction body connected with the inlet thereof to a lengthened and flexible suction and with the outlet thereof to a removable collecting container.
- Such a lengthened and flexible suction pipe is also handled and operated by the cleaning operator, which, through suitable commands arranged on to the same pipe, actuates or not the suctioning of the suction body, thereby for sucking selectively waste and filth from the ground and/or suitable containers by putting on to them the inlet of such a suction pipe, by filling consequentially the removable collecting container.
- piloting operations of the cleaning unit we must comprise particularly those operations adapted to avoid fixed and/or movable, laterally and/or front obstacles.
- control commands of the actuation and steering motor for the wheels are arranged on the back of the same truck, which in the front thereof is provided at least with a motorized brush, adapted to convey where desired the filth that meet along its path.
- the suction and collecting system mounted onto said motorized truck in its second embodiment is constituted by a motorized suction body connected with its inlet to a lengthened suction pipe and with its outlet to a removable collecting container, wherein the inlet mouth of such a suction pipe is arranged in correspondence of the conveying point of said motorized brush, thereby for sucking the filth collected by this latter.
- the operator always works in a rear position than the motorized truck, thereby can’t having an optimal vision of the area to be cleaned, comprising possible obstacles.
- Such a removable collecting container when is full, is removed and emptied where established, for been positioned again onto the motorized truck.
- the aim of the present invention is to eliminate such disadvantages and to realize a self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning, which allows to the cleaning operator to work along a path chosen by him staying in a front position with respect to the cleaning unity, and eventually by operating only the suction pipe, thereby improving the ergonomic with respect to the suction machines used now and the quality of the same cleaning.
- Additional aim of the present invention is to realize the above self-propelled machine for suction cleaning in such a way that, during the advancing phase both with rectilinear and curvilinear paths, is able to detect and to avoid fixed and movable, front and side obstacles.
- Last aim of the present invention is to realize the above said self-propelled machine for suction cleaning in such a way that its turnover is prevented.
- FIG. 1 shows a perspective front view of a first embodiment of the self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning in a working phase thereof accompanied by a cleaning operator, according to the invention
- FIG. 2 shows a perspective side view of a first embodiment of the self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning in a rest position thereof accompanied by a cleaning operator, according to the invention
- FIG. 3 shows a perspective front rear view of the apparatus of Fig. 2, accompanied by an operator ;
- Fig. 4 shows a perspective view from the top of the apparatus of fig. 2, accompanied by an operator ;
- FIGS. 5a-5b show in succession a schematic view of two operational phases of the cleaning apparatus, according to the invention ;
- FIG. 6 shows a schematic view of an additional operational phase of the cleaning apparatus ;
- Fig. 7 shows a schematic view of another operational phase of the cleaning apparatus ;
- FIG. 8 shows the circuit block diagram of the electronic control circuit and of the component connected to it, of the cleaning apparatus, according to the invention.
- a self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning is illustrated, which is adapted to be used in environments of considerable dimensions, both indoor and outdoor, as for example floors of industrial areas, commercial areas, healthcare areas, etc., or parking lots, roads, wharfs, pedestrian zones, floors of great ships, etc., in such a way that an operator may collect and remove selectively through suction all the waste of the non-recyclable type and organic type, and all the filth, both artificial and natural, both liquid and solid, as for example oils, powder, loam, isolated faeces, dead branches, etc., that are on the ground, into storm drains, little channels and/or grids, and also into suitable containers, in such a way that said self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning may follow automatically the operator by avoiding front and side obstacles and by preventing turnover itself.
- Such a self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning 10 substantially comprises a support frame 11 provided in the lower part thereof with a plurality of locomotion elements 12, at least a movement group 13 of said cleaning machine 10, at least a control and command unity 14 of said movement group 13, and at least a cleaning and collecting group 15 for waste and filth. As it shown in Figs.
- the cleaning and collecting group 15 of waste and filth, secured onto the support frame 11 in a first embodiment thereof is constituted by a motorized suction body 16, to the suction inlet of which, there is connected a collecting container 18 of the sucked waste, of the removable type for its emptying, which in turn is connected to the inlet thereof a suction pipe 17, at least partially flexible, in such a way that such a suction body make vacuum into the container 18 and consequently the suction pipe may suck the filth, and it is adapted to be used by the cleaning operator, which commands it through suitable commands arranged on to said suction pipe 17, for sucking selectively waste and filth from the ground or suitable containers, whereas in a second embodiment thereof (not shown) it is constituted by at least a motorized brush arranged frontally and lowering to the support frame 11 , a motorized suction body, to the inlet of which there is connected a collecting container for the sucked waste, of the removable type for its emptying, to which in turn a suction
- Said locomotion elements 12 arranged on the perimeter of the support frame 11, and are constituted as for example by at least a couple of rear side wheels 19, spaced away to each other, and at least a central front wheel 19’, or by a pair of side tracks (not shown), so that such a frame 11 is spaced away from the ground and may be moved onto this latter.
- At least one of said wheels 19, G is actuated in rolling and/or is steering thanks to said movement group 13, to which is connected with transmission means per se known, which movement group 13 is secured on the support frame 11 or is integrated into the same wheels 19, 19’ and is meanly constituted by at least a first unidirectional electrical actuation means 20, as for example an electric motor, adapted to actuate in front rolling said locomotion elements 12, and by at least a second bidirectional electrical actuation means 21, as for example an electric motor, coupled to a steering means 22, adapted to steer said locomotion elements 12, in a way that the cleaning apparatus 10 may move itself on the ground in any direction.
- a first unidirectional electrical actuation means 20 as for example an electric motor
- a second bidirectional electrical actuation means 21 as for example an electric motor
- Said movement means are powered by at least a portable electric generator (not shown), as for example a battery.
- control and command unit 14 powered by at least a portable electric generator (not shown), as for example a battery, is substantially constituted by a control and command means 23, as for example an electronic circuit board equipped with at least a portable electric generator (not shown), as for example a battery, is substantially constituted by a control and command means 23, as for example an electronic circuit board equipped with at least a portable electric generator (not shown), as for example a battery, is substantially constituted by a control and command means 23, as for example an electronic circuit board equipped with at least a
- microprocessor 24 connected and commanded by command means 25 of the per se known type, as for example push buttons, touch screen sensors, levers, which are arranged externally on the cleaning apparatus 10 for been used by the operator 26, such unit 14 being connected to follow components :
- a detecting means 27 for detecting the distance and the presence of elements of the surrounding environment ;
- a speed regulating means 31 as for example an inverter, connected to the actuation means
- an electrical detecting circuit 33 for detecting the rotation angle of steering means 22 ;
- At least a comparator means 48 constituted by an electronic proportional-integral-derivative controller means 48, commonly named PID and arranged into the cleaning apparatus 10.
- control and command unit 14 are connected to and cooperating to each other and together the other components of the cleaning apparatus 10 in the manner that will be described after, on the basis of the pre-set values in the electrical circuit board 23, bay the data received by the same that arrive, also at the same moment, from the other elements of the control and command unit 14, and that later are elaborated by the same electrical circuit board 23, which send in turn data and commands to the various components of the cleaning apparatus 10.
- Such an electronical detecting means 34 for detecting the position of the operator 26 is arranged on the front part of the support frame 11, and is constituted preferably by a sensor of the laser scanner 2D type with a range of 270°, ma may be constituted by a laser scanner 3D sensor, or by a 2D or 3D video camera, and is connected to the electrical circuit board 23 through a connection for the electric supply and data transmission, as for example of the Ethernet type.
- Such an electronical detecting means 34 comprises a laser generator 35, a motorized optical gyroscope 36 and at least an electric circuit 37, in a manner that the laser generator 35 generates and directs in a continuous way a laser beam onto the motorized gyroscope which in turn casts said laser beam in to the environment with a trajectory depending by the momentary position of the mirror of the same gyroscope, therefore through the electric circuit 37 it is possible to know the distance of the elements hit by the laser beam, and according to the return time of the laser beam that they reflect and their angulation with respect to the scanner sensor, since it is known the rotation angle of the motorized gyroscope and so the direction of the laser beam.
- the electronic circuit board 23 sends to the laser generator means 34 through a digital data transmission cable, as for example of the Ethernet type 37’, and the electronic circuit an order file package in such a way that the laser generator means 34 starts to detect all the groups of points 38 constituting the elements present in its field of action, which laser subsequently sends continuously return file packages to the electronic circuit board 23 with the same outward path, which electronic circuit board 23 converts such file packages in to Cartesian coordinate points thereby obtaining the configuration and the position of the various detected groups of points 38, furthermore, it compares these latter to each other and memorizes two group of points 39 which are similar or equal to each other for shape and dimensions, which are with dimensions similar to the eons pre-set in the same circuit board, and that are as closest as possible to the laser scanner 34, by identifying them as legs 40 of the operator 26, whereas it recognized the other groups of points
- the electronic circuit board 23 converts itself automatically in the following modality, that is by means of the groups of points 38 and 39, instantly detected by the laser scanner 34, it recognizes continuously the position of the operator 26 and the other elements 41 of the environment with respect to the position of the cleaning apparatus 10, by sending a set of command to the actuating means 20 and to the steering means 22, through the relative command circuit 30 and 32, as it will be explained.
- Said detecting means 27 for detecting the distance and the presence of elements 41 in the surrounding environment are constituted by a plurality of first distance sensors 42, as for example of the optical or ultrasonic type, each coupled with at least an electronic circuit 43 and are arranged on the side and front perimeter of the cleaning apparatus 10 and faced outward, in such a way that their signal doesn’t interpose to the laser scanner 34 signal, said distance sensors 42 being adapted to detect the presence of elements 41 in the environment and the distance of these latter with respect to the cleaning apparatus 10.
- Said distance sensors 42 send a signal in the direction in which they are faced, and if the signal meets an element into its length, this latter return to the sensor in a certain time, and by knowing its velocity , the electric circuit 43 is able to detect instantly the distance of the element 41, by sending such a data, in a digital format, to the electronic circuit board 23, which elaborates all these type of received data from the various distance sensors 42, by converting them in Cartesian coordinate points, thereby obtaining the shape, the dimension and the position of the element 41 in the environment with respect to the cleaning apparatus 10.
- control circuit board 23 joins the Cartesian coordinate points detected by the laser scanner 34 and the distance sensors 42, in a manner to obtain a complete map of the environment, with all the elements 41 and the legs 40 of the operator 26 therein present, wherein the cleaning apparatus 10 must work.
- the operator 26 starts the recognizing of the legs 40, he places itself in front of the laser scanner sensors 34, which receives the order from the electronic circuit board 23, as above described, and when the recognizing is finished, the electronic circuit board 23 converts itself automatically in following modality and starts the sensors 27, in a such a way to create the map of the working environment with the elements 41 and 40 therein present.
- Such an electronic circuit board 23 is set up for maintaining the cleaning apparatus 10 at a pre-set distance to the operator 26, therefore if this latter moves, also the cleaning apparatus 10 moves, as will be described now.
- the laser scanner 34 detects instantly and constantly the position of whose legs 40 and with its electric circuit 37 sends the relative data of the position to the electronic circuit board 23, this latter sends in turn the received data to the PID control means 48, that, according to the pre-set value relative to the distance that we want maintain between the operator 26 and the cleaning machine 10, calculates possible error between the pre-set value and the effective distance, by sending instantly a order to the electronic circuit board 23 that consequently sends an order to the actuating means 20 through the circuit 30 and/or through the speed regulator 31, as follow:
- the actuation means 20 is actuated and in turn it actuates the locomotion elements 12, by allowing to the cleaning apparatus 10 to get close to the operator 26, by tending to remain at the pre-set distance, as possible, by regulating also the speed of the actuation means 20, and so the locomotion elements 12, through the speed regulator 31, according to the speed of the operator 26, always thank to the PID control 48 ;
- the encoder 33 coupled with the steering means 22, detects the rotation angle of the same steering means 22 and sends continuously the data to the electronic circuit board 23, at the same time, this latter receives the data from the laser scanner 34 of a possible side movement of the operator 26, by sending after two received data to the PID control, which verifies if there is an error between the direction of the apparatus 10, that is the rotation angle of the steering wheel 22 and the position of the operator 26, thereby sending a return order to the electronic circuit board 23, as follows:
- the electronic circuit board 23 doesn’t send order to the actuation means 21 of the steering wheel 22 ;
- the electronic circuit board 23 sends an order to the actuation means 21 of the steering wheel 22, through the electric circuit 32, to make the same steering wheel 22 to rotate in the direction of the position of the operator detected by the laser scanner 34, by eliminating the error and by positioning the cleaning apparatus 10 in a manner that it moves forward on the same axis of the operator 26.
- the laser scanner 34 detects an element 41 among itself and the operator 26, it sends such a data to the electronic circuit board 23, which commands to the actuation means 20 of the locomotion elements 12, through the electric circuit 37, to stop, by stopping consequently the advancement of the cleaning apparatus 10, when the element 41 is not more detected, with the same commands flow, the cleaning apparatus 10 is made to advance again toward the operator 26.
- the electronic circuit board 23 is set in such a way to maintain the cleaning apparatus 10 to a pre- set distance detected by the first distance sensors 27, as follows.
- the sensor 42 detects laterally an element 41 at a certain distance, through the electric circuit 43, sends such a data to the electronic circuit board 23, which compares it with the pre-set distance, and if the sent distance results smaller than the other one, the same electronic circuit board 23 send an order to the actuation means 21 of the steering wheel 22, through the electric circuit 32, to make to steer the steering wheel 22 to the opposite direction of the element 41, up to the cleaning apparatus 10 moves to the pre-set distance.
- the electronic circuit board 23 sends an order for stopping, through the driver 30, to the actuation means 20 of the locomotion elements 12, by stopping consequently the cleaning apparatus 10, vice-versa, if there are not more detected one or more of said elements 41, the above described cycle of advancement or steering starts again.
- At least a pair of first distance sensors 42 are arranged specular to each other on the external sides of the support frame 11 , in a longitudinal position with respect to the cleaning apparatus 10 in such a way that there is indicated to the electric circuit board 23 that it is possible to carry out a curve such to allow to circumvent an obstacle, as for example the circumventing of a comer of a building or a furniture, without colliding with the same comer by carrying out a curvature radius as closely as possible.
- Said detecting means 28 for detecting the pitch and yaw angle of the cleaning apparatus 10 is constituted by a accelerometer sensor 44 coupled with at least an electronic circuit 45, and detects the inclination degree on the Y and Z axis of the cleaning apparatus 10 during its service, and through the circuit 45 it sends such measurements to the electronic circuit board 23, which compares such detected data with the pre-set parameters, by considering if the first ones stay in the second ones, and in positive case the electronic circuit board 23 doesn’t send any order, in negative case it sends through the driver 30 an order for stopping to the actuation means 20, for avoiding the turnover of the same cleaning apparatus 10.
- Said detecting means 29 for detecting the filling of said removable container 18 for collecting the filth is constituted by a second distance sensor 46, as for example of the optical or ultrasonic type, coupled with an electronic circuit 47, and arranged into the same removable container 18, in the upper part of this latter and turned downward, in such a way that, with the same principle of the first distance sensors 41, it detects the filling of the same container 18, by sending such data to the electronic circuit board 23 through the electronic circuit 47, which board compares it with the preset parameters, and if the data detected by the distance sensor 46 is smaller than the data pre-set in to the electronic circuit board 23, this latter sends through the driver 30 an order for stopping the actuation means 20, for avoiding the turnover of the same cleaning apparatus 10, and the container 18 must be removed and emptied before using again the cleaning apparatus 10.
- a second distance sensor 46 as for example of the optical or ultrasonic type
- the electrical actuation means 20 are adapted to move the locomotion elements 12 in one direction only, that is in the front direction of the apparatus 10, in such a way that if the operator 26 moves close to the cleaning apparatus 10, this latter stays still without move backwards, in such a way that the commands 25 may be reached easily.
- the operator 26 may convert the automatic setting of the electric circuit board 23 to the manual setting, in order to can use the cleaning apparatus 10 in the standard manual modality, therefore actuating the actuation means 20 with an additional command means, as for example a shaft 49 arranged in the front side of the cleaning apparatus 10 in the first and third embodiment thereof, or a lever arranged backward to this latter in the second embodiment thereof (not shown).
- an additional command means as for example a shaft 49 arranged in the front side of the cleaning apparatus 10 in the first and third embodiment thereof, or a lever arranged backward to this latter in the second embodiment thereof (not shown).
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Abstract
Self-propelled apparatus (10) for suction cleaning is illustrated, adapted to be used in environments of considerable dimensions, both indoor and outdoor, as for example floors of industrial areas, commercial areas, healthcare areas, etc., or parking lots, roads, wharfs, pedestrian zones, floors of great ships, etc., in such a way that an operator may collect and remove selectively through suction all the waste of the non-recyclable type and organic type, and all the filth, both artificial and natural, both liquid and solid, as for example oils, powder, loam, isolated faeces, dead branches, etc., that are on the ground, into storm drains, little channels and/or grids, and also into suitable containers, in such a way that said self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning may follow automatically the operator, self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning (10) substantially comprising a support frame (11) provided in the lower part thereof with a plurality of locomotion elements (12), at least a movement group (13) of said cleaning machine (10), at least a control and command unity (14) of said movement group (13), and at least a cleaning and collecting group (15) for waste and filth.
Description
“SELF-PROPELLED APPARATUS FOR SUCTION CLEANING”
The invention relates to a self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning, adapted to be used in environments of considerable dimensions, both indoor and outdoor, as for example floors of industrial areas, commercial areas, healthcare areas, etc., or parking lots, roads, wharfs, pedestrian zones, floors of great ships, etc., in such a way that an operator may collect and remove selectively through suction all the waste of the non-recyclable type and organic type, and all the filth, both artificial and natural, both liquid and solid, as for example oils, powder, loam, isolated faeces, dead branches, etc., that are on the ground, into storm drains, little channels and/or grids, and also into suitable containers.
Actually, for the suction cleaning of the waste and the filth on the ground in great environments, there are known self-propelled suction cleaning units assisted by operator, which are constituted substantially by a motorized truck equipped with a suction and collecting system.
Such a motorized truck comprises substantially a frame onto which there are secured an electric motor, a plurality of lower wheels, of which at least one on the front is steering, wherein the electric motor is connected to and/or integrated into at least one of said wheels.
In a first embodiment, such a motorized truck comprises also a front command lever, fixed on the upper part of the front steering wheel, and adapted to actuate the electric motor, to which it is electronically connected and to let steer the same motorized truck.
In such a manner, the cleaning operator, by handling the command lever, may command the forward movement of such a motorized truck by lowering the same lever that actuate the motor, that in turns actuates the wheels, thereby let the truck move forward without additional human force use, furthermore by moving laterally the lever, there is allowed to the motorized truck to steer. The suction and collecting system mounted onto said motorized truck in its first embodiment is constituted by a motorized suction body connected with the inlet thereof to a lengthened and
flexible suction and with the outlet thereof to a removable collecting container.
Such a lengthened and flexible suction pipe is also handled and operated by the cleaning operator, which, through suitable commands arranged on to the same pipe, actuates or not the suctioning of the suction body, thereby for sucking selectively waste and filth from the ground and/or suitable containers by putting on to them the inlet of such a suction pipe, by filling consequentially the removable collecting container.
It simple to realize that, in this first embodiment and with this type of suction unit, the cleaning operator works in a suboptimal condition, since with one arm he must command the command lever of the motorized truck and with the other arm he must operate the lengthened and flexible suction pipe, therefore he is often with very opened arms, so with an uncorrected posture, he must complete continuous twisting of the chest, he must support the suction pipe with an arm only, he must complete fits and starts and repeated movements of the arms. All of this may cause the arising of illnesses to the operator caused by excess load or by movements improperly for the human body. Furthermore, the operator always must complete at the same time the operation of piloting of the cleaning unit through the command lever and the operation of sucking through the suction pipe, which are totally different, and cause a very high mental and physical weariness.
Among the piloting operations of the cleaning unit we must comprise particularly those operations adapted to avoid fixed and/or movable, laterally and/or front obstacles.
In a second embodiment of the motorized truck, the control commands of the actuation and steering motor for the wheels are arranged on the back of the same truck, which in the front thereof is provided at least with a motorized brush, adapted to convey where desired the filth that meet along its path.
The suction and collecting system mounted onto said motorized truck in its second embodiment is constituted by a motorized suction body connected with its inlet to a lengthened suction pipe and with its outlet to a removable collecting container, wherein the inlet mouth of such a suction pipe is
arranged in correspondence of the conveying point of said motorized brush, thereby for sucking the filth collected by this latter.
With this second embodiment, the operator always works in a rear position than the motorized truck, thereby can’t having an optimal vision of the area to be cleaned, comprising possible obstacles.
Such a removable collecting container, in both embodiments, when is full, is removed and emptied where established, for been positioned again onto the motorized truck.
Therefore, it is always present the risk of turnover of such cleaning unities, caused by the overloaded of the collecting container, if it is not emptied systematically.
The aim of the present invention is to eliminate such disadvantages and to realize a self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning, which allows to the cleaning operator to work along a path chosen by him staying in a front position with respect to the cleaning unity, and eventually by operating only the suction pipe, thereby improving the ergonomic with respect to the suction machines used now and the quality of the same cleaning.
Additional aim of the present invention is to realize the above self-propelled machine for suction cleaning in such a way that, during the advancing phase both with rectilinear and curvilinear paths, is able to detect and to avoid fixed and movable, front and side obstacles.
Last aim of the present invention is to realize the above said self-propelled machine for suction cleaning in such a way that its turnover is prevented.
The invention will be better understood by the follow description, by way of a not-limitative example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which :
- Fig. 1 shows a perspective front view of a first embodiment of the self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning in a working phase thereof accompanied by a cleaning operator, according to the invention;
- Fig. 2 shows a perspective side view of a first embodiment of the self-propelled apparatus for
suction cleaning in a rest position thereof accompanied by a cleaning operator, according to the invention ;
- Fig. 3 shows a perspective front rear view of the apparatus of Fig. 2, accompanied by an operator ;
- Fig. 4 shows a perspective view from the top of the apparatus of fig. 2, accompanied by an operator ;
- Figs. 5a-5b show in succession a schematic view of two operational phases of the cleaning apparatus, according to the invention ;
- Fig. 6 shows a schematic view of an additional operational phase of the cleaning apparatus ;
- Fig. 7 shows a schematic view of another operational phase of the cleaning apparatus ;
- Fig. 8 shows the circuit block diagram of the electronic control circuit and of the component connected to it, of the cleaning apparatus, according to the invention.
In the illustrated Figures a self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning is illustrated, which is adapted to be used in environments of considerable dimensions, both indoor and outdoor, as for example floors of industrial areas, commercial areas, healthcare areas, etc., or parking lots, roads, wharfs, pedestrian zones, floors of great ships, etc., in such a way that an operator may collect and remove selectively through suction all the waste of the non-recyclable type and organic type, and all the filth, both artificial and natural, both liquid and solid, as for example oils, powder, loam, isolated faeces, dead branches, etc., that are on the ground, into storm drains, little channels and/or grids, and also into suitable containers, in such a way that said self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning may follow automatically the operator by avoiding front and side obstacles and by preventing turnover itself.
Such a self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning 10 substantially comprises a support frame 11 provided in the lower part thereof with a plurality of locomotion elements 12, at least a movement group 13 of said cleaning machine 10, at least a control and command unity 14 of said movement group 13, and at least a cleaning and collecting group 15 for waste and filth.
As it shown in Figs. 1-4, the cleaning and collecting group 15 of waste and filth, secured onto the support frame 11 , in a first embodiment thereof is constituted by a motorized suction body 16, to the suction inlet of which, there is connected a collecting container 18 of the sucked waste, of the removable type for its emptying, which in turn is connected to the inlet thereof a suction pipe 17, at least partially flexible, in such a way that such a suction body make vacuum into the container 18 and consequently the suction pipe may suck the filth, and it is adapted to be used by the cleaning operator, which commands it through suitable commands arranged on to said suction pipe 17, for sucking selectively waste and filth from the ground or suitable containers, whereas in a second embodiment thereof (not shown) it is constituted by at least a motorized brush arranged frontally and lowering to the support frame 11 , a motorized suction body, to the inlet of which there is connected a collecting container for the sucked waste, of the removable type for its emptying, to which in turn a suction pipe is connected to its inlet, the inlet of the suction pipe is arranged in the conveying point of the motorized brushes for sucking the waste collected form these latter, whereas in a third embodiment thereof (not shown) it is constituted by the combination of the first two embodiments thereof.
Said locomotion elements 12 arranged on the perimeter of the support frame 11, and are constituted as for example by at least a couple of rear side wheels 19, spaced away to each other, and at least a central front wheel 19’, or by a pair of side tracks (not shown), so that such a frame 11 is spaced away from the ground and may be moved onto this latter.
At least one of said wheels 19, G is actuated in rolling and/or is steering thanks to said movement group 13, to which is connected with transmission means per se known, which movement group 13 is secured on the support frame 11 or is integrated into the same wheels 19, 19’ and is meanly constituted by at least a first unidirectional electrical actuation means 20, as for example an electric motor, adapted to actuate in front rolling said locomotion elements 12, and by at least a second bidirectional electrical actuation means 21, as for example an electric motor, coupled to a steering
means 22, adapted to steer said locomotion elements 12, in a way that the cleaning apparatus 10 may move itself on the ground in any direction.
Said movement means are powered by at least a portable electric generator (not shown), as for example a battery.
As visible in the diagram of Fig. 8, the control and command unit 14, powered by at least a portable electric generator (not shown), as for example a battery, is substantially constituted by a control and command means 23, as for example an electronic circuit board equipped with at least a
microprocessor 24, connected and commanded by command means 25 of the per se known type, as for example push buttons, touch screen sensors, levers, which are arranged externally on the cleaning apparatus 10 for been used by the operator 26, such unit 14 being connected to follow components :
- at least a electronical detecting means 34 for detecting the operator’s 26 position ;
- a plurality a detecting means 27 for detecting the distance and the presence of elements of the surrounding environment ;
- at least a detecting means 28 for detecting the pitch and yaw angle of the cleaning apparatus 10 ;
- at least a detecting means 29 for detecting the filling of said removable container 18 ;
- a command electrical circuit 30 (driver) for the actuation means 20 ;
- at least a speed regulating means 31, as for example an inverter, connected to the actuation means
20 ;
- an electrical command electrical circuit 32 (driver) for the steering means 22 ;
- an electrical detecting circuit 33 (encoder) for detecting the rotation angle of steering means 22 ; At least a comparator means 48, constituted by an electronic proportional-integral-derivative controller means 48, commonly named PID and arranged into the cleaning apparatus 10.
The above-said elements of said control and command unit 14 are connected to and cooperating to each other and together the other components of the cleaning apparatus 10 in the manner that will
be described after, on the basis of the pre-set values in the electrical circuit board 23, bay the data received by the same that arrive, also at the same moment, from the other elements of the control and command unit 14, and that later are elaborated by the same electrical circuit board 23, which send in turn data and commands to the various components of the cleaning apparatus 10.
Such an electronical detecting means 34 for detecting the position of the operator 26 is arranged on the front part of the support frame 11, and is constituted preferably by a sensor of the laser scanner 2D type with a range of 270°, ma may be constituted by a laser scanner 3D sensor, or by a 2D or 3D video camera, and is connected to the electrical circuit board 23 through a connection for the electric supply and data transmission, as for example of the Ethernet type.
Such an electronical detecting means 34, or laser scanner, comprises a laser generator 35, a motorized optical gyroscope 36 and at least an electric circuit 37, in a manner that the laser generator 35 generates and directs in a continuous way a laser beam onto the motorized gyroscope which in turn casts said laser beam in to the environment with a trajectory depending by the momentary position of the mirror of the same gyroscope, therefore through the electric circuit 37 it is possible to know the distance of the elements hit by the laser beam, and according to the return time of the laser beam that they reflect and their angulation with respect to the scanner sensor, since it is known the rotation angle of the motorized gyroscope and so the direction of the laser beam.
As shown in Figs. 5a- 5b, started the laser generator means 34 and the operator 26 placed, with his legs 40 next to each other, in front of this latter means, the electronic circuit board 23 sends to the laser generator means 34 through a digital data transmission cable, as for example of the Ethernet type 37’, and the electronic circuit an order file package in such a way that the laser generator means 34 starts to detect all the groups of points 38 constituting the elements present in its field of action, which laser subsequently sends continuously return file packages to the electronic circuit board 23 with the same outward path, which electronic circuit board 23 converts such file packages in to Cartesian coordinate points thereby obtaining the configuration and the position of the various
detected groups of points 38, furthermore, it compares these latter to each other and memorizes two group of points 39 which are similar or equal to each other for shape and dimensions, which are with dimensions similar to the eons pre-set in the same circuit board, and that are as closest as possible to the laser scanner 34, by identifying them as legs 40 of the operator 26, whereas it recognized the other groups of points 38 as external elements 41 of the working environment.
After, finished the recognizing phase of the legs 40 of the operator 26, the electronic circuit board 23 converts itself automatically in the following modality, that is by means of the groups of points 38 and 39, instantly detected by the laser scanner 34, it recognizes continuously the position of the operator 26 and the other elements 41 of the environment with respect to the position of the cleaning apparatus 10, by sending a set of command to the actuating means 20 and to the steering means 22, through the relative command circuit 30 and 32, as it will be explained.
Said detecting means 27 for detecting the distance and the presence of elements 41 in the surrounding environment are constituted by a plurality of first distance sensors 42, as for example of the optical or ultrasonic type, each coupled with at least an electronic circuit 43 and are arranged on the side and front perimeter of the cleaning apparatus 10 and faced outward, in such a way that their signal doesn’t interpose to the laser scanner 34 signal, said distance sensors 42 being adapted to detect the presence of elements 41 in the environment and the distance of these latter with respect to the cleaning apparatus 10.
Said distance sensors 42 send a signal in the direction in which they are faced, and if the signal meets an element into its length, this latter return to the sensor in a certain time, and by knowing its velocity , the electric circuit 43 is able to detect instantly the distance of the element 41, by sending such a data, in a digital format, to the electronic circuit board 23, which elaborates all these type of received data from the various distance sensors 42, by converting them in Cartesian coordinate points, thereby obtaining the shape, the dimension and the position of the element 41 in the environment with respect to the cleaning apparatus 10.
Furthermore, the control circuit board 23 joins the Cartesian coordinate points detected by the laser scanner 34 and the distance sensors 42, in a manner to obtain a complete map of the environment, with all the elements 41 and the legs 40 of the operator 26 therein present, wherein the cleaning apparatus 10 must work.
By using the commands 25, the operator 26 starts the recognizing of the legs 40, he places itself in front of the laser scanner sensors 34, which receives the order from the electronic circuit board 23, as above described, and when the recognizing is finished, the electronic circuit board 23 converts itself automatically in following modality and starts the sensors 27, in a such a way to create the map of the working environment with the elements 41 and 40 therein present.
Such an electronic circuit board 23 is set up for maintaining the cleaning apparatus 10 at a pre-set distance to the operator 26, therefore if this latter moves, also the cleaning apparatus 10 moves, as will be described now.
While the operator 26 moves, the laser scanner 34 detects instantly and constantly the position of whose legs 40 and with its electric circuit 37 sends the relative data of the position to the electronic circuit board 23, this latter sends in turn the received data to the PID control means 48, that, according to the pre-set value relative to the distance that we want maintain between the operator 26 and the cleaning machine 10, calculates possible error between the pre-set value and the effective distance, by sending instantly a order to the electronic circuit board 23 that consequently sends an order to the actuating means 20 through the circuit 30 and/or through the speed regulator 31, as follow:
- in the case wherein the operator 26 is positioned at a distance greater than the pre-set one, through the circuit 30, the actuation means 20 is actuated and in turn it actuates the locomotion elements 12, by allowing to the cleaning apparatus 10 to get close to the operator 26, by tending to remain at the pre-set distance, as possible, by regulating also the speed of the actuation means 20, and so the locomotion elements 12, through the speed regulator 31, according to the speed of the operator 26,
always thank to the PID control 48 ;
- in the case wherein the operator is positioned at a distance smaller than the pre-set one, through the speed regulator 31 the speed of the actuation means 20 is reduced, and consequently the one of the locomotion elements 12, up to the PID control 48 doesn’t detect any error between the set distance and the real one between the cleaning apparatus 10 and the operator 26.
The encoder 33, coupled with the steering means 22, detects the rotation angle of the same steering means 22 and sends continuously the data to the electronic circuit board 23, at the same time, this latter receives the data from the laser scanner 34 of a possible side movement of the operator 26, by sending after two received data to the PID control, which verifies if there is an error between the direction of the apparatus 10, that is the rotation angle of the steering wheel 22 and the position of the operator 26, thereby sending a return order to the electronic circuit board 23, as follows:
- if the error between the rotation angle of the steering wheel 22 and the position of the operator 26 with respect to advancing line of the cleaning apparatus 10 is not present, that is the apparatus 10 and the operator 26 move forward on to the same axis, the electronic circuit board 23 doesn’t send order to the actuation means 21 of the steering wheel 22 ;
- is an error between the rotation angle of the steering wheel 22 and the position of the operator 26 with respect to advancing line of the cleaning apparatus 10 is present, the electronic circuit board 23 sends an order to the actuation means 21 of the steering wheel 22, through the electric circuit 32, to make the same steering wheel 22 to rotate in the direction of the position of the operator detected by the laser scanner 34, by eliminating the error and by positioning the cleaning apparatus 10 in a manner that it moves forward on the same axis of the operator 26.
It’s also possible to pre-set the electronic circuit board 23 in such a way that, prior selection by the operator 26 through the commands 25, the cleaning apparatus 10 follows the same operator 26 along the same direction but in an offset position.
In the case wherein the laser scanner 34 detects an element 41 among itself and the operator 26, it
sends such a data to the electronic circuit board 23, which commands to the actuation means 20 of the locomotion elements 12, through the electric circuit 37, to stop, by stopping consequently the advancement of the cleaning apparatus 10, when the element 41 is not more detected, with the same commands flow, the cleaning apparatus 10 is made to advance again toward the operator 26.
The electronic circuit board 23 is set in such a way to maintain the cleaning apparatus 10 to a pre- set distance detected by the first distance sensors 27, as follows.
If the sensor 42 detects laterally an element 41 at a certain distance, through the electric circuit 43, sends such a data to the electronic circuit board 23, which compares it with the pre-set distance, and if the sent distance results smaller than the other one, the same electronic circuit board 23 send an order to the actuation means 21 of the steering wheel 22, through the electric circuit 32, to make to steer the steering wheel 22 to the opposite direction of the element 41, up to the cleaning apparatus 10 moves to the pre-set distance.
In the case during this latter movement, at least an additional element 41 is detected on the other side of the cleaning apparatus 10 at a distance smaller than the set one, the electronic circuit board 23 sends an order for stopping, through the driver 30, to the actuation means 20 of the locomotion elements 12, by stopping consequently the cleaning apparatus 10, vice-versa, if there are not more detected one or more of said elements 41, the above described cycle of advancement or steering starts again.
At least a pair of first distance sensors 42 are arranged specular to each other on the external sides of the support frame 11 , in a longitudinal position with respect to the cleaning apparatus 10 in such a way that there is indicated to the electric circuit board 23 that it is possible to carry out a curve such to allow to circumvent an obstacle, as for example the circumventing of a comer of a building or a furniture, without colliding with the same comer by carrying out a curvature radius as closely as possible.
Said detecting means 28 for detecting the pitch and yaw angle of the cleaning apparatus 10 is
constituted by a accelerometer sensor 44 coupled with at least an electronic circuit 45, and detects the inclination degree on the Y and Z axis of the cleaning apparatus 10 during its service, and through the circuit 45 it sends such measurements to the electronic circuit board 23, which compares such detected data with the pre-set parameters, by considering if the first ones stay in the second ones, and in positive case the electronic circuit board 23 doesn’t send any order, in negative case it sends through the driver 30 an order for stopping to the actuation means 20, for avoiding the turnover of the same cleaning apparatus 10.
Said detecting means 29 for detecting the filling of said removable container 18 for collecting the filth, is constituted by a second distance sensor 46, as for example of the optical or ultrasonic type, coupled with an electronic circuit 47, and arranged into the same removable container 18, in the upper part of this latter and turned downward, in such a way that, with the same principle of the first distance sensors 41, it detects the filling of the same container 18, by sending such data to the electronic circuit board 23 through the electronic circuit 47, which board compares it with the preset parameters, and if the data detected by the distance sensor 46 is smaller than the data pre-set in to the electronic circuit board 23, this latter sends through the driver 30 an order for stopping the actuation means 20, for avoiding the turnover of the same cleaning apparatus 10, and the container 18 must be removed and emptied before using again the cleaning apparatus 10.
The electrical actuation means 20 are adapted to move the locomotion elements 12 in one direction only, that is in the front direction of the apparatus 10, in such a way that if the operator 26 moves close to the cleaning apparatus 10, this latter stays still without move backwards, in such a way that the commands 25 may be reached easily.
Through the commands 25, the operator 26 may convert the automatic setting of the electric circuit board 23 to the manual setting, in order to can use the cleaning apparatus 10 in the standard manual modality, therefore actuating the actuation means 20 with an additional command means, as for example a shaft 49 arranged in the front side of the cleaning apparatus 10 in the first and third
embodiment thereof, or a lever arranged backward to this latter in the second embodiment thereof (not shown).
Claims
1. Self-propelled apparatus (10) for suction cleaning is illustrated, adapted to be used in
environments of considerable dimensions, both indoor and outdoor, as for example floors of industrial areas, commercial areas, healthcare areas, etc., or parking lots, roads, wharfs, pedestrian zones, floors of great ships, etc., in such a way that an operator may collect and remove selectively through suction all the waste of the non-recyclable type and organic type, and all the filth, both artificial and natural, both liquid and solid, as for example oils, powder, loam, isolated faeces, dead branches, etc., that are on the ground, into storm drains, little channels and/or grids, and also into suitable containers, in such a way that said self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning may follow automatically the operator, self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning (10) substantially comprising a support frame (11) provided in the lower part thereof with a plurality of locomotion elements (12), at least a movement group (13) of said cleaning machine (10), at least a control and command unity (14) of said movement group (13), and at least a cleaning and collecting group (15) for waste and filth, said cleaning and collecting group (15) of waste and filth being secured on the support frame (11) and constituted by a motorized suction body (16), to the suction inlet of which, there is connected a collecting container (18) of the sucked waste, of the removable type for its emptying, which in turn is connected to the inlet thereof a suction pipe (17), at least partially flexible, in such a way that such a suction body make vacuum into the container (18) and consequently the suction pipe (17) may suck the filth, said suction pipe (17) being used by the suction cleaning operator (26), by command it through suitable commands arranged on the same one, or that may be arranged with its inlet mouth in the conveying point of motorized brushes fixed on the front part of said support frame (11), said locomotion elements (12) being arranged on the perimeter of the support frame (11), and being constituted as for example by at least a couple of rear side wheels (19), spaced away to each other, and at least a central front wheel (19’), so that such a frame (11 ) be spaced away from the ground and may be moved onto this latter, said movement
group (13) being arranged on said frame (11) and being substantially constituted by at least a first unidirectional electrical actuation means (20), as for example an electric motor, connected with transmission means per se known to at least a locomotion element (12), adapted to move forward the cleaning apparatus (10) and by at least a second electrical actuation means (21), as for example an electric motor, coupled to a steering means (22) and at least to a locomotion element (12), adapted to make to steer said cleaning apparatus (10), said movement means (13) being powered by at least a portable electric generator (not shown), as for example a battery, said cleaning apparatus being also provided on its external part with command means (25), as for example push buttons, levers, touch screen sensors, said control and command unit (14) being powered by at least a portable electric generator (not shown), as for example a battery, characterized in that said unit (14) comprises substantially :
- at least a control and command means (23), as for example an electronic circuit board equipped with at least a microprocessor (24) ;
- at least a first electronical detecting means (34) ;
- at least a comparator means (48) ;
- a plurality a second detecting means (27) ;
- at least a third electronical detecting means (28) ;
- at least a fourth electronical detecting means (29) ;
Said control and command means (23) being arranged into the cleaning apparatus (10) and being adapted to cooperate simultaneously with all the above-said means and with the electrical actuation means (20, 21), said first electronic detecting means (34) being arranged on the front part of said support frame (11), and adapted to detect the elements (40, 41) present in to its action field in front of the cleaning apparatus (10) and to send such measurements to the control and command means (23), which elaborate them by identifying the legs (40) of the operator (26) and their position with respect to the same apparatus (10) and by sending such elaborated data of the real position to the
comparator means (48), this latter being arranged into the cleaning apparatus (10) and being adapted to compare the data of the real position of the operator (26) with the pre-set data of the distance and angulation to be maintained between the operator (26) and the cleaning apparatus (10), by detecting the possible difference and by sending such a data to the control and command means (23), this latter actuating or not said first and second actuation means (20, 21) for moving or not the cleaning apparatus (10) with variable speed, said plurality of second detecting means (27) being arranged on the side and front perimeter of the cleaning apparatus (10) and faced outward, and being adapted to detect the elements (41) present in the action field thereof and by sending such a collection data to the control and command means (23), this latter deactivating or not said first actuation means (20) for stopping or not the cleaning apparatus (10), said third detecting means (28) being arranged into the cleaning apparatus (10) and detecting the inclination of the cleaning apparatus (10), and sending such a measurements to the control and command means (23), this latter comparing such a measurements of the inclination with the pre-set value and consequently deactivating or not said first actuation means (20) for stopping or not the cleaning apparatus (10), said fourth detecting means (29) being arranged into the removable container (18), in the upper part of this latter, and turned downward, and being adapted to detect the filth filling level of the same container 818) and sending such a measurement to the control and command means (23), this latter comparing such a filling measurement with pre-set value and consequently deactivating or not said first actuation means (20) for stopping or not the cleaning apparatus (10).
2. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that said first detecting means (34) detects all the groups of points (38, 39) constituting the elements present in to its action filed, by sending continuously such measurements to the control and command means (23) that convert them in Cartesian coordinate points thereby obtaining the configuration and the position of the various detected groups of points (38, 39).
3. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that said control and command means
(23) compares the received groups of points (38) to each other and memorized two group of points (39) which are similar or equal to each other for shape and dimensions, which are with dimensions similar to the eons pre-set in the same circuit board, and that are as closest as possible to the laser first detecting means (34), by identifying them as legs (40) of the operator (26), whereas it recognized the other groups of points (38) as external elements (41 ) of the working environment.
4. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that said first detecting means (34) may be constituted by a 2D laser scanner or a 3D laser scanner or a video camera.
5. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that said first detecting means (34) comprises a laser generator (35), a motorized optical gyroscope (36) and at least an electric circuit (37), wherein the laser generator (35) generates and directs in a continuous way a laser beam onto the motorized gyroscope (36), which in turn casts said laser beam in to the environment with a trajectory depending by the momentary position of the mirror of the same gyroscope, therefore through the electric circuit (37) it is possible to know the distance of the elements hit by the laser beam, according to the return time of the laser beam that they reflect and their angulation with respect to the scanner sensor (34), since it is known the rotation angle of the motorized gyroscope and so the direction of the laser beam, such an electric circuit (37) sending such measurements to the control and command means (23).
6. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that said first detecting means (34) has an action filed of 270°.
7. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that the operator (26) places itself, with his legs (40) next to each other, in front of the first detecting means (34), and starts with the command means (25) the recognizing phase of the same legs (40), the control and command means (23) sends to the laser generator means (34) through the electric circuit (37) an order file package in such a way that the laser generator means (34) starts to detect the elements (40, 41) in its field of action, and sends the measurements to the control and command means (23).
8. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that when the recognizing phase is finished, the control and commands means (23) identifies the legs (40) of the operator (26) converts itself in the following phase, by identifying continuously the position of the operator (26) in the environment with respect to the position of the cleaning apparatus (10), by sending a set of commands to the actuation means (20) and to the steering means (22), through the relative command circuit (driver) (30, 32) for following at a certain distance and with a certain angulation the operator (26) who moves, ad activating the second detecting means (27).
9. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that if the operator (26) is at a distance greater than the pre-set one, the comparator means (48) detects the error, and the control and command means (23), through the driver (30), activates the actuation means (20, that in turn activates the locomotion elements (12), by allowing to the cleaning apparatus (10) to move forward approaching to the operator (26).
10. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that through a speed regulator means (31), as for example an inverter, cooperating with the control and command means (23) and the advancing means (20), the control and command means (23) change the speed of the advancing means (20) according to the speed of the operator (26), therefore, according on the basis of the repeating of the error detected by the comparator means (48), for maintaining a constant distance between the operator and the cleaning apparatus (10).
11. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that said steering means (22) is provided with an encoder (33), which detects the angle rotation of it and sends continuously such a measurement to the control and command means (23), at the same time, this latter receives the measurements from the first detecting means (34) of a side movements of the operator (26), such a control and command means (23) sending after two types of received measurements to the comparator means (48), which verifies if there is an error between the direction of the apparatus (10), that is the rotation angle of the steering wheel (22) and the position of the operator (26),
thereby sending a return order to the electronic circuit board (23), that consequently send an order or not to the second electronic actuation means (21) through the driver (32) to make to actuate the steering means (22) on to the locomotion elements (12).
12. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that if the comparator means (48) doesn’t detect an error between the rotation angle of the steering wheel (22) and the position of the operator (26) with respect the advancement line of the cleaning apparatus (10), that is the cleaning apparatus (10) and the operator (26) advance on the same axis, the control and command means (23) doesn’t send orders to the actuation means (21) of the steering wheel (2).
13. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that if the comparator means (48) detects an error between the angle rotation of the steering wheel (22) and the position of the operator (26) with respect to the advancing line of the cleaning apparatus (10), the control and command means (23) sends an order to the actuation means (21) of the steering wheel (22), through the electric circuit (32), to make to rotate the steering wheel (22) in the direction of the operator’s (26) position detected by the first detecting means (34), by eliminating the error and by positioning the cleaning apparatus ( 10) in a manner that it advance on the same axis of the operator (26).
14. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that the control and commands means (23) may be pre-set in such a way that, prior selection of the setting by the operator (26) through the commands (25), the cleaning apparatus (10) follows the same operator (26) along the same direction but in an offset position.
15. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that when the first detecting means
(34) detects an element (41) among itself and the operator (26), it sends such a data to the control and command means (23), through the electric circuit (37), and which control and command means (23) sends and order to stop, through the electric circuit (30), to the actuation means (20) of the locomotion elements (12), by stopping consequently the advancement of the cleaning apparatus (10), after, a time that the element (41) is not more detected, with the same commands flow, the
cleaning apparatus (10) is made to advance again toward the operator (26).
16. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that said second detecting means (27) are each constituted by a distance sensors (42), as for example of the optical or ultrasonic type, each coupled with at least an electronic circuit (43) arranged in such a way that their signal doesn’t interpose to the signal of the first detecting means (34), wherein said distance sensors (42) send a signal in the direction in which they are faced, and if the signal meets an element into its length, this latter return to the sensor in a certain time, and by knowing its velocity, the electric circuit (43) is able to detect instantly the distance of such an element (41), by sending such a measurement, to the control and command means (23), which elaborates all these type of received measurements from the various distance sensors (42), by converting them in Cartesian coordinate points, thereby obtaining the shape, the dimension and the position of the elements (41) detected in the
environment with respect to the position of the cleaning apparatus (10).
17. Cleaning apparatus according to claims 2 and 16, characterized in that said control and command means (23) joins the Cartesian coordinate points detected by the Furthermore, the control circuit board 23 joins the Cartesian coordinate points detected by the first detecting means (34) and the second detecting means (27), in a manner to obtain a complete map of the working environment, with all the elements (41) and the legs (40) of the operator (26).
18. cleaning apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that if a distance sensor (42) detects laterally an element (41) at a certain distance, it sends through the electric circuit (43) such a measurement to the control and command means (23), which control and command means (23) compares the detected distance with the pre-set distance, and actuates or not the actuation means (32).
19. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 18, characterized in that if the distance of an element (41) from the cleaning apparatus (10) detected by the distance sensor (42) results smaller than the other one, the control and commands means (23) sends an order to the actuation means (21) of the
steering wheel (22), through the electric circuit (32), to make to steer the steering wheel (22) to the opposite direction of the element (41), and consequently the locomotion elements (12) and so the cleaning apparatus (10), up to the detected distance doesn’t result equal or greater than the pre-set one.
20. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 19, characterized in that if during a laterally movement caused by the detection of an element (41) at a smaller distance than the pre-set one, an additional element (41) is detected on the other side of the cleaning apparatus (10) at a distance smaller than the pre-set one, the control and command means (23) sends an order for stopping to, through the driver (30), the actuation means (20) of the locomotion elements (12), by stopping consequently the cleaning apparatus (10), vice-versa, when there are not more detected one or more of said elements (41) at a distance smaller than the pre-set one, the advancement and/or the steering of the apparatus (10) start normally again.
21. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 18, characterized in that at least a pair of said distance sensors (42) are arranged specular to each other on the external sides of the cleaning apparatus (10), in a longitudinal position with respect to the this latter in such a way that there is indicated to the control and command means (23), through the electric circuit (43), that it is possible to carry out a curve with the smallest minimum radius such to allow to circumvent an obstacle (41), as for example the circumventing of a comer of a building or of a furniture, without colliding with the same comer.
22. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 21, characterized in that said third electronic detecting means (28) is constituted by a accelerometer sensor (44) coupled with at least an electronic circuit (45), said accelerometer sensor (44) being adapted to detects the inclination degree on the longitudinal and vertical axis of the cleaning apparatus (10) during its service, and through said circuit (45) sending such measurements to the control and command means (23), which comparing such detected data with the pre-set parameters, by considering if the first ones stay in the second
ones, stops or not the actuation means (20).
23. Cleaning means according to claim 22, characterized in that in the case that the inclination degrees detected by the third detecting sensor (28) and sent to the control and command means (23) stay into the pre-set parameters, this latter doesn’t send any order.
24. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 22, characterized in that in the case that the inclination degrees detected by the third detecting sensor (28) and sent to the control and command means (23) don’t stay into the pre-set parameters, this latter sends through the driver (30) an order of stopping to the actuation means (20), for avoiding the turnover of the same cleaning apparatus (10).
25. cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that said fourth electronic detecting means (29) is constituted by a second distance sensor (46), as for example of the optical or ultrasonic type, coupled at least with an electronic circuit (47), in such a way that, it sends continuously a signal downward and according to the return speed of such a signal it detects the filling level of the container (18), by sending such a detected data to the control and command means (23) through the electronic circuit (47), which means (23) compares it with the pre-set parameters, by stopping or not the actuation means (20).
26. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 25, characterized in that if the data detected by the distance sensor (46) is smaller than the data pre-set in to control and command means (23), this latter sends through the driver (30) an order for stopping the actuation means (20) thereby stopping the cleaning apparatus (10), for avoiding its turnover, and the container (18) must be emptied before using again the same cleaning apparatus (10).
27. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 1 , characterized in that the electronic comparator means (48) is constituted by an electronic proportional-integral-derivative controller means, commonly named PID controller.
28. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that said electric actuation means (20) are of the unidirectional type, in such a way to move the locomotion elements (12) in one
direction only, that is in the front direction of the cleaning apparatus (10), in a manner that if the operator (26) approaches frontally the cleaning apparatus (10), this latter stays still without move backwards, in such a way that the commands (25) may be reached easily.
29. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that through the commands (25), the operator (26) may convert the automatic setting of the control and command means (23) in to the manual setting, in order to can use the cleaning apparatus (10) in the standard manual modality, therefore actuating the actuation means (20) with an additional command means, as for example a shaft (49) arranged in the front side of the cleaning apparatus (10) in the first and third embodiment thereof, or a lever arranged backward to this latter in the second embodiment thereof.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/IT2018/000070 WO2019220467A1 (en) | 2018-05-14 | 2018-05-14 | Self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/IT2018/000070 WO2019220467A1 (en) | 2018-05-14 | 2018-05-14 | Self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning |
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| Publication Number | Publication Date |
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| WO2019220467A1 true WO2019220467A1 (en) | 2019-11-21 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/IT2018/000070 WO2019220467A1 (en) | 2018-05-14 | 2018-05-14 | Self-propelled apparatus for suction cleaning |
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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| CN110952489A (en) * | 2019-12-02 | 2020-04-03 | 长沙中联重科环境产业有限公司 | Sanitation robot capable of performing self-following control based on machine vision |
| DE102020116166A1 (en) * | 2020-06-18 | 2021-06-24 | Aebi Schmidt Deutschland Gmbh | Self-propelled sweeper |
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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| CN110952489A (en) * | 2019-12-02 | 2020-04-03 | 长沙中联重科环境产业有限公司 | Sanitation robot capable of performing self-following control based on machine vision |
| DE102020116166A1 (en) * | 2020-06-18 | 2021-06-24 | Aebi Schmidt Deutschland Gmbh | Self-propelled sweeper |
| WO2021254779A1 (en) | 2020-06-18 | 2021-12-23 | Aebi Schmidt Deutschland Gmbh | Self-propelled sweeping machine |
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