DESC:Form 2
THE PATENT ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
The Patent Rules ,2003

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(Section 10 and Rule 13)

A FLOOR CLEANING APPARATUS

Sl. No Name Nationality Address
1 BROOMSTICK CLEANTECH LLP INDIAN No 405, 2nd Cross, Nyaya Marga, Siddartha Nagar, Mysore – 570011

The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention related to the realm of mops, with a more focused emphasis on the "smart-electric cordless mop". This development is specifically associated with consumer electronics.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
The Indian household is renowned for its exemplary hospitality and unwavering commitment to cleanliness. Although the traditional practices and techniques of mopping have historically proven to be satisfactory in terms of hygiene for the average household, yet there is a need for more effective cleaning implement which may have minimal human intervention. The act of cleaning floors, which conventionally demands a substantial investment of time and considerable physical strain, has become an undesirable burden. Therefore, a sophisticated substitute is required, and this is where our modern marvel, the 'smart mop', comes into play. The smart mop will undoubtedly cultivate a truly hygienic environment within the home or any establishment building. This state-of-the-art device operate in an upright manner and effectively carry out the task of mopping with reduced time consumption. Consequently, it replaces the arduous and time-consuming process of manual and traditional cleaning practices, which necessitate significant physical exertion.
The conventional method of mopping involves the use of a bucket and repeatedly rinsing the mop in the same water, which ultimately results in a dirty cleaning process. This unhygienic practice necessitates the development of a more advanced and scientific solution for daily mopping and cleaning requirements. The cleaning devices are designed with a deep understanding of human anthropology, prioritizing ergonomic considerations. All attachments and peripherals are lightweight and agile.
Traditional mopping devices utilize external sprays to wet the floor, followed by running the mop cloth over it. However, this approach is inconsistent and inconvenient.

OBJECTIVES

The primary objective of the present innovation is to provide a floor cleaning apparatus.
Another objective of the invention is to provide a cutting-edge motion sensing technology.
Still another objective is to provide higher square footage coverage per milliliter of water, resulting in a lightweight apparatus.
Further objective of the present invention is that the mop allows for efficient handling of tough messes in every nook and cranny, as it produces an average force of 15N by virtue of its design, transmitting its body weight onto the floor.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF PRIOR ART

CN116687260A : In this case, the disclosure is on collecting feedback through the current fluctuation of the roller when it moves.
CN111879733A : Here, the teaching is on getting feedback based on the light intensity variation of a humid mop vs a dry mop.

Description of the drawing

Fig-01 is the isometric view showing the floor cleaning apparatus.
Fig-02 is schematic of the water delivery mechanism comprised in the apparatus shown in Fig-01.
Fig-03 is the isometric view showing wheel and sensory wheel sub-assembly.
Fig-04 is schematic of the Electronics comprised in the apparatus, mainly in the CPU Housing and the Cleaning Base.
Fig-05 is isometric view of sensory wheel with three slots depicting the details of (22) of Fig 3.
Summary of invention
According to the principal aspect of the invention there is provided floor cleaning apparatus which comprises Microfiber Cleaning Pad (1) connected to a Base (2), the said base being connected to a Cover (3), a U-Joint Trunnion (4) connected to Base (2), a U-Joint Yolk (5) connected to a Flexible Hose (6), a Small Stick (7) supporting a CPU Housing Cover (8) of a Housing (9), Water Tank (10) with a Cap (11) fixed to a long Stick (12) having a Left Handle (13), a Right Handle (14), Red Green Blue (RGB) light emitting diode LED (15) fixed on the stick (12), a round rocker ON/OFF switch (16 ) provided to activate the electronic system, an override Panel mount momentary push button Switch (17) provided for manual intervention, a Charging Port (18), a Rechargeable Battery Pack (24) , to provide power to an Atmega 328p processor (26), a Water pump (B, Fig. 2) run by the rechargeable battery pack provided for water spraying during automatic operation by the processor (26), the working of the said floor cleaning apparatus is characterized by the process of the apparatus’ movement which is captured by the sensors data, the microcontroller, an Atmega328p-processor (26), serves as the computational hub managing the seamless integration of sensor data, it employs a novel algorithm to decipher the pulses from the optical encoder (23), determining the direction of the wheel’s (21) rotation and, consequently, the device's forward or backward movement and the distance traversed through the different sized slots on a sensory wheel (22), the sensory wheel containing three slots of differing sizes which provides the ability to decode the forward and backward movement of the apparatus and the distance traversed in addition, a gyroscope (28) measures angular acceleration, providing real-time data on the angle of rotation, through which, the microcontroller is programmed to exert precise control over the water delivery system through the ZN44 transistor (25), a necessary component governing the high-pressure DC pump (29) which gives a controlled output of water due to the programming logic designed to withhold water spray if the device repetitively traversing the same area and only when the device transitions into a new area, the microcontroller autonomously activates the pump, ensuring precise water delivery based on area coverage to maintain optimum dampness of the microfiber pad (1) and an optimal addition to the system is an override button (17), located at the handle for user convenience which provides users with the ability to trigger immediate water spray when needed thereby offering a manual intervention option thereby, the system having dynamic functionality, facilitated by the intelligent programming of the microcontroller, enhancing the adaptability and user control of the integrated system in different operational scenarios.
According to an embodiment of the present invention wherein, a uniform water spray for efficient mopping is provided.
According to another embodiment of the present invention wherein, the DC pump (B) gives the output water stream with a pressure of 1000 Pascals.
According to another embodiment of the present invention wherein, the Water Tank has a capacity of 500 mL to mop an area of 1300 sq-ft.
According to yet another embodiment of the present invention wherein, the cleaning material is made of Microfibre (1).
According to still another embodiment of the present invention wherein, U-Joint Trunnion (4) and a U-Joint Yolk (5) assembly gives it a free travel of 109.82 degrees forward and backward of the Stick (12) and a 176 degrees side to side.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The present invention related to the realm of mops, with a more focused emphasis on the "smart electric cordless mop". This development is specifically associated with consumer electronics.
The apparatus for floor cleaning is described hereunder with respect to the Figures 1 to 4. The main inventive features of the floor cleaning mop are as under as per Figure 1
• Easy Manoeuvrability with Handle (14): The smart mop has a handle that has been ergonomically designed to provide users with a comfortable grip and effortless manoeuvrability. Its lightweight construction ensures that the smart mop can smoothly glide across a variety of surfaces.
• Water Tank (10) with Stick (12): The handle of the stick mop is equipped with a durable stick that seamlessly integrates with a water tank (10). This tank features a convenient water cap (11) for easy refilling and ensures a continuous supply of water, thereby optimizing the smart mop's cleaning performance.
• Housing for Electronic Components (9): The smart mop's electronic components, which serve as its CPU, are securely housed within a sturdy casing.
• Revolute Joint with U Joint Yokes (5) and Trunnion (4): The stick of the smart-mop connects to U joint yokes, which are further linked to a trunnion. This innovative design enables flexible movement and ensures that the cleaning base can reach difficult corners and angles with ease.
• Microfiber Pad (1) Attachment on the Cleaning Base (2): The cleaning base of the smart mop is equipped with a high-quality microfiber pad (1) that is securely fastened with Velcro. This material efficiently captures dirt and grime, delivering a thorough and streak-free clean. The microfiber pad (1) can be easily detached for convenient cleaning and replacement.
Constructional details are described as under with reference to Fig 1
Firstly, the handle (14) is equipped with two strategically positioned switch mounts (16) and (17), which have been designed to facilitate intuitive control. The override Panel mount Momentary push button Switch (17) is conveniently located at the top of the handle, allowing easy access and operation with the user's thumb. Additionally, the power round rocker ON/OFF switch (16) is situated on the left side of the handle (14), the power switch is used to turn ON/OFF the mop and the override switch is used to spray water from the nozzle on demand, as per the user's specific need to dampen the floor.
Also, the overall design of the handle takes the shape of an 'L,' providing users with a comfortable and ergonomic grip. This L-shape design facilitates ease of use and manoeuvrability during cleaning tasks. The device is made in such a manner that the individual can effortlessly elevate it without experiencing any discomfort or tension. Additionally, it can be easily transported and is conveniently portable. One end of the handle is closed, creating a secure grip for the user, while the extended lower part features couplers. These couplers are designed to seamlessly attach to an extended pipe, allowing users to connect the cleaning mop for extended reach and coverage.
Furthermore, the handle is attached to the stick (12), which has a preferred diameter of 28.6mm but may be of any other size without limiting the scope of the invention
On one end of the stick, it is connected to the Handle (13,14), while on the other end, it is connected to the water tank (10) with a capacity of 500ml. The water tank is cylindrical in shape and is Leak proof. To close the water tank, a specifically designed cap (11) is located at the top, facilitating easy refilling. This water tank is securely attached to a CPU housing (9) that houses various electronic components, including a Battery Pack (24). The power supply represents a robust integration, featuring a battery pack comprising two high-capacity 2000mAh 18650 Lithium-ion cells, collectively delivering 12Wh at 6V. Within this power supply framework, process of continually monitoring battery voltage during device operation is ensured. This real-time surveillance is pivotal for optimizing energy utilization. Should the battery voltage exceed a predetermined threshold, the system interprets it as an indication of sufficient charge, prompting the RGB LED (15) to emit a serene green glow, effectively communicating an optimal battery status. Conversely, a drop-in voltage below the specified threshold triggers a noticeable shift in the LED's colour, transitioning to a red glow to alert users of the need for recharging. Additionally, when the device is connected for charging, the same circuit actively oversees the charging process. A blue LED emanates during active charging, providing users with visual confirmation of the ongoing replenishment of the battery's charge. Upon successful completion of the charging cycle, the LED transforms into a green glow, indicating a fully charged battery. This multifaceted visual feedback mechanism not only enhances the user experience but also ensures a seamless and efficient management of the power supply across various operational states, further contributing to the overall effectiveness and reliability of the integrated system.
Fig 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of the arrangement of water delivery system
The Water Tank (A) is connected to a water pump of 6v high pressure DC pump (B), but may be of any other specification without limiting the scope of the invention. The core component of the water distribution mechanism is the water pump. This pump has been strategically placed to extract water from the integrated water tank, thus generating a continuous and regulated flow for the purpose of the cleansing process.
A flexible pipe (G), possessing a diameter of 6mm, is connected to the DC pump outlet, ensuring the achievement of an optimal water flow & pressure. This adaptable conduit (G) allows for ease of movement, thereby enabling the water delivery system to efficiently navigate the structural framework of the electric mop.
In order to regulate and manage the distribution of water, a sophisticated pressure check valve (C) (PCV) has been seamlessly integrated into the system. The PCV (C) is normally closed and the flow is disrupted, only when the pressure in the conduit builds up due to DC pump (B), the PCV (C) opens mechanically due to pressure and the flow is restored in the system.
The water pump outlet is connected to the input side of the PCV, while the output side is equipped with a Splitter (D) to accommodate the two spray nozzles (E1, F1) which are in turn connected to the Splitter (D) by conduits (E & F). The arrangement of the nozzle has been meticulously positioned in order to optimize the wetting capabilities of the microfiber material that is affixed to the electric mop, thereby facilitating highly efficient cleaning processes.
The water delivery mechanism, a crucial component of the system, operates seamlessly to regulate a high-pressure DC pump. This pump, orchestrated by a transistor control mechanism, ensures efficient and targeted water spraying. Dynamic adjustments to the duration of water spraying optimize resource usage, delivering an exact and calibrated quantity of water to the specific area of interest. The intelligent control mechanism of the water delivery system, driven by real-time positional data from the sensor unit, enhances adaptability and efficiency in water distribution.
FIG. 3 illustrates a sub-assembly comprising a wheel (21) and a sensory wheel (22). The wheel (21) and the sensory wheel (22) are secured to a common shaft. This shaft is affixed to the base plate (20). The optical encoder (23) is positioned on the base plate (20) to detect the slots of the sensory wheel (22). This sub-assembly forms part of the base (2) of the apparatus, with the base plate (20) being a component of the base (2).

In Figure 4, additionally, a microcontroller Atmega 328p processor (26) and Battery pack (24) are present within the case. The microcontroller, an Atmega328p-processor (26), but may be of any other specification and type without limiting the scope of the invention, serves as the computational hub orchestrating the seamless integration of sensor data and the control of the water delivery system. Responsible for collecting data from all sensors, it employs a meticulously crafted algorithm to decipher the pulses from the optical encoder (23), determining the direction of the sensor wheel’s (22) rotation and, consequently, the device's forward or backward movement and the distance traversed, in addition, a gyroscope (28) measures angular acceleration, providing real-time data on the angle of rotation. Analysing these movements, the microcontroller is programmed to exert precise control over the water delivery system through the ZN44 transistor (25), a pivotal component governing the high-pressure DC pump (29). The programming logic is designed to withhold water spray if the device repetitively traverses the same area. However, when the device transitions into a new area, the microcontroller autonomously activates the pump, ensuring targeted water delivery. A thoughtful addition to the system is an override button (17), strategically located at the handle for user convenience. This button provides users with the ability to trigger immediate water spray when needed, offering a manual intervention option. This dynamic functionality, facilitated by the intelligent programming of the microcontroller, enhances the adaptability and user control of the integrated system in various operational scenarios.
All the aforementioned electronic components are interconnected using 18 to 24 AWG multistrand copper wires.
The CPU Housing (9) also has a CPU cover (8) that features snap fits, ensuring proper fixation of the CPU Housing (9). Furthermore, the CPU Housing (9) is connected to a small stick (7) with the same diameter of 28.6mm. The 18 AWG multistrand copper wires pass through this stick, along with a flexible hose (6) that connects the water pump to the cleaning base (2).
The small stick is then connected to the U-joint yokes (5), which in turn are connected to the trunnion (4) to fashion a revolute joint. The yolk-trunnion revolute joint and the trunnion-base revolute joint are perpendicular in their rotational axes. Due to this, the device has exceptional maneuverability and seamless motion. Also, the device is able to swivel and rotate to tackle any household obstacles.
At the heart of the system lies a meticulously crafted sensor unit as shown in Fig 4. An optical encoder (27) based speed sensor and gyroscope (28) work in harmony to capture and interpret the device's movements in the XY plane. As shown in Fig 3, the optical encoder relies on a specially designed sensory wheel (22) affixed to the device's wheel shaft which is mounted to the base (20). As the wheel (21) rotates, the optical encoder (23) interprets its motion, generating a pulsating DC signal with varying pulse widths that correspond to the slots on the sensory wheel (22). The sequence of these slots is accurately determined based on the pulses from the encoder using an algorithm. This intricate mechanism, combined with a sophisticated decoding algorithm, ensures unparalleled precision in movement monitoring. Complementing the optical encoder (27), the gyroscope (28) measures angular acceleration, providing real-time data on the angle of rotation. The integration of these sensor technologies results in a comprehensive understanding of the device's spatial dynamics.
The microfiber cleaning pad (1) located at the bottom of the cleaning mop is securely attached through the utilization of the Velcro fastening system.

Figure 5 illustrates the sensory wheel as shown in Fig (3) with slots of varying incremental widths. As the wheel rotates, these slots pass through the optical encoder (27), depicted in Figure 3. The varying slot widths modulate the output of the optical encoder, resulting in a unique pulse pattern for each position. This pulse pattern is then processed by the processor (26) using a dedicated algorithm. By analyzing this pattern, the system can accurately determine both the direction of rotation of the sensory wheel (30), and hence the direction of movement of the apparatus, and the distance traversed by the apparatus.

Water delivery control with microprocessors based on sensor data

The Algorithm describes an innovative intelligent water spraying system that utilizes a gyroscope sensor and sophisticated algorithms for precise motion sensing and water delivery control. The setup initializes crucial components, including pin configurations and interrupt handling. The system features an override mechanism, responding to user input for immediate water spray. A sophisticated movement analysis algorithm accurately tracks device rotations, while a threshold monitoring mechanism triggers water delivery upon surpassing a predefined distance. The code also incorporates power management, monitoring battery voltage, and an RGB LED (15) for intuitive user feedback. Overall, the code represents a versatile and user-friendly solution for automated water distribution.
This technology possesses the ability to comprehend the user's cleaning pace and device direction movement and adapt accordingly to provide the most optimal water supply. Moreover, our device showcases a sleek and slim design, which is achieved through the implementation of our advanced moisture adding technology and optimized hardware.
The innovative device, incorporates an internal wetting mechanism that is facilitated by a specially designed mechanism to supply optimum water to the mop as per scientific standards. This ensures an optimum dampness of the microfiber being maintained which is required for higher cleaning efficiency and this in turn reduces the likelihood of excessive wetness or dryness which lead to re-adsorption of soil/dirt to the floor and conserves water as well. The device is equipped with sensors that understand the human motion, enabling the automation of the wetting process with no human intervention, thereby supplying optimum water for efficient cleaning and enhancing the device's capabilities and giving users a seamless experience.
,CLAIMS:We claim

1. A floor cleaning apparatus which comprises Microfiber Cleaning Pad (1) connected to a Base (2), the said base being connected to a Cover (3), a U-Joint Trunnion (4) connected to Base (2), a U-Joint Yolk (5) connected to a Flexible Hose (6), a Small Stick (7) supporting a CPU Housing Cover (8) of a Housing (9), Water Tank (10) with a Cap (11) fixed to a long Stick (12) having a Left Handle (13), a Right Handle (14), Red Green Blue (RGB) light emitting diode LED (15) fixed on the stick (12), a round rocker ON/OFF switch (16 ) provided to activate the electronic system, an override Panel mount momentary push button Switch (17) provided for manual intervention, a Charging Port (18), a Rechargeable Battery Pack (24) , to provide power to an Atmega 328p processor (26), a Water pump (B, Fig. 2) run by the rechargeable battery pack provided for water spraying during automatic operation by the processor (26), the working of the said floor cleaning apparatus is characterized by the process of the apparatus’ movement which is captured by the sensors data, the microcontroller, an Atmega328p-processor (26), serves as the computational hub managing the seamless integration of sensor data, it employs a novel algorithm to decipher the pulses from the optical encoder (23), determining the direction of the wheel’s (21) rotation and, consequently, the device's forward or backward movement and the distance traversed through the different sized slots on a sensory wheel (22), the sensory wheel containing three slots of differing sizes which provides the ability to decode the forward and backward movement of the apparatus and the distance traversed in addition, a gyroscope (28) measures angular acceleration, providing real-time data on the angle of rotation, through which, the microcontroller is programmed to exert precise control over the water delivery system through the ZN44 transistor (25), a necessary component governing the high-pressure DC pump (29) which gives a controlled output of water due to the programming logic designed to withhold water spray if the device repetitively traversing the same area and only when the device transitions into a new area, the microcontroller autonomously activates the pump, ensuring precise water delivery based on area coverage to maintain optimum dampness of the microfiber pad (1) and an optimal addition to the system is an override button (17), located at the handle for user convenience which provides users with the ability to trigger immediate water spray when needed thereby offering a manual intervention option thereby, the system having dynamic functionality, facilitated by the intelligent programming of the microcontroller, enhancing the adaptability and user control of the integrated system in different operational scenarios.
2. The Floor cleaning apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein, a uniform wetness of the microfiber (1) through the uniform water spray for efficient mopping is provided.
3. The Floor cleaning apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein, the Water Tank has a capacity of 500 mL to mop an area of 1300 sq-ft.
4. The Floor cleaning apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein, the cleaning material is made of microfiber (1).
5. The Floor cleaning apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein U-Joint Trunnion (4) and a U-Joint Yolk (5) assembly gives it a free travel of 109.82 degrees forward and backward of the Stick (12) and a 176 degrees side to side.