Abstract: An automated floor and carpet cleaning device comprises of a housing 101 having multiple wheels 102 for locomotion of the housing 101, a sensing unit 103 integrated with the housing 101 to detect texture and shape of floor to be cleaned, a box 104 located within the housing 101 with a vacuum unit 105 to withdraw dust from floor via a hose 106, a motorised cylindrical member 108 attached with the housing 101 via two articulated links 109 to sweep of dust and debris from floor, an imaging unit 111 determining position of dust and debris over floor, multiple nozzles 113 connected with a multi-section chamber 112 installed within the housing 101 to dispense cleaning fluids to scrub the floor via a hydraulic pusher 115 having a plate 116 layered with fabric 117, a carpet cleaning unit 118 coupled with the housing 101 for cleaning of carpet of the floor.
Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to an automated floor and carpet cleaning device that is capable of an autonomous facility for cleaning dust and debris from floors and includes a feature that automatically detects stains on the carpet and initiates cleaning of the carpet, along with identification of microbial growth on the floor and effectively eliminate the microbial growth, ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Maintaining clean floors and carpets is essential for both hygiene and aesthetic purposes in any indoor environment. Floors, whether tiled, wooden, or carpeted, naturally accumulate dust, dirt, and debris from daily activities, foot traffic, pets, and environmental factors. Over time, the accumulation of dirt and dust lead to the deterioration of floor surfaces, particularly carpets, which trap allergens, bacteria, and mold spores, potentially leading to health issues such as allergies, respiratory problems, or skin irritations. Additionally, the buildup of debris on floors make surfaces slippery, increasing the risk of accidents and falls. Regular cleaning is necessary to remove these contaminants and maintain the integrity of the flooring material. Carpet fibers, in particular, act as filters, trapping dirt, dust, and moisture, which contribute to odors and create an unhealthy environment if left unchecked. Floor and carpet cleaning not only enhances the appearance of a space but also improves indoor air quality by reducing allergens and pathogens. Advanced cleaning technologies, such as automated vacuum systems, motorized scrubbing devices, and specialized tools for different floor types, ensure a more efficient and thorough cleaning process, providing both convenience and effectiveness in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene.
[0003] There are various types of equipment designed for cleaning floors and carpets to remove dust and debris, each with its advantages and drawbacks. For hard floors, equipment like vacuum cleaners, brooms, and mops are commonly used. Vacuum cleaners are highly effective for removing dust and debris, especially when equipped with filters, but they are noisy and heavy, especially the more powerful models. Brooms are less efficient at removing fine dust, often pushing debris around, while mops require frequent washing of the mop head and leave floors wet, leading to slip hazards.
[0004] For carpets, vacuum cleaners with rotating brushes or beater bars are essential for lifting dirt and dust from deep within fibers. However, these vacuums are less effective on high-pile carpets and may cause wear and tear over time. Carpet sweepers are lighter but lack the suction power to deeply clean carpets, leaving behind some debris. Steam cleaners are another option, but they are slow, require maintenance, and may not be suitable for all types of carpets. Overall, while these cleaning tools offer varying levels of efficiency, they each come with specific drawbacks such as maintenance requirements, noise, or limited effectiveness on certain surfaces.
[0005] GB1081886A discloses a floor cleaning apparatus comprising a trolley supporting a liquid container into which a mop can be dipped, and mop wringing means including a reaction plate against which a mop fringe can be positioned and mechanism for moving a roller from a position spaced from the plate into contact with the mop fringe and downwardly there over to expel liquid therefrom, the mechanism comprises a foot operated lever connected by links to lugs on arms carrying the roller, the arms being connected by a spindle the end portions of which form pivots slidable in guides and urged towards the plate by tension springs to apply squeezing pressure to the mop fringe. The lever is operated against the action of return springs. Mechanism is provided for lowering feet to raise the trolley wheels from the floor. In a further construction a manually operated locking device is provided for maintaining the foot operated lever in its lower position when desired.
[0006] US2009178227A1 discloses a floor-cleaning machine comprising a support trolley, on which support trolley at least a floor-cleaning group is installed, which floor-cleaning group is provided with at least a flexible blade and is mobile on board the support trolley between a work position, in which the flexible blade is in contact with a floor, and a rest position, in which the flexible blade is distanced from the floor, the floor-cleaning machine comprising magnetic means which are destined to block the floor-cleaning group in the rest position.
[0007] Conventionally, many devices have been developed in order to clean floor area, however the devices mentioned in the prior arts have limitations pertaining to clean carpet of the floor to remove stains of the carpet along with cleaning of the floor.
[0008] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is required to be capable of autonomously removing dust and debris from floors along with feature of stain detection on carpets, enabling automated cleaning, while simultaneously detecting and eliminating microbial growth to maintain cleanliness and health.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.
[0010] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of providing a facility to autonomously clean dust and debris of a floor.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of detecting stains of a carpet of the floor and accordingly cleans the stains of the carpet in an automated manner.
[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of detecting microbial growth on the floor and accordingly eradicate the detected microbial growth.
[0013] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] The present invention relates to an automated floor and carpet cleaning device that autonomously cleans dust and debris from floors, while also detecting and removing stains from carpets. Additionally, the device is equipped with the ability to identify microbial growth and take appropriate action to eradicate the microbial growth, ensuring the floor remains hygienic.
[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an automated floor and carpet cleaning device comprises of a housing provided with a plurality of motorised omnidirectional wheels installed underneath the housing for a locomotion of the housing, a sensing unit integrated with the housing to detect texture and shape of floor to be cleaned, a box located within the housing with a vacuum unit configured within the box for suctioning dust and debris from the floor via an articulated hose provided underneath the housing connected with the vacuum unit, a motorised cylindrical member attached with the housing by means of a pair of articulated L-shaped links, wherein the member is provided with bristles along lateral surface for sweeping of dust and debris towards the hose, and an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit, installed on the housing to determine position of dust and debris and dimensions of debris on the floor for collecting the debris into the box via the vacuum unit.
[0016] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the present invention further comprises of a multi-section chamber disposed within the housing for storage of a variety of cleaning fluids, a plurality of nozzles is mounted with the housing by means of swivel joints, connected with the chamber for selectively dispensing cleaning fluids in accordance with texture and condition of floor detected by the sensing unit, a hydraulic pusher attached underneath the housing, having a plate attached at a bottom end of the hydraulic pusher, a fabric is layered with the plate for scrubbing of floor with the cleaning fluids, a carpet cleaning unit coupled with the housing for cleaning of carpets, the carpet cleaning unit comprising a hollow cylindrical structure attached with the housing by means of telescopic supports, a slit longitudinally cut in the structure for passage of carpet into the structure, a pair of clamps mounted along inner surfaces of the structure by means of circular sliders for spooling of carpet into the structure, and a motorised shaft having brushes attached within the structure for scrubbing the carpet in the structure.
[0017] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of an automated floor and carpet cleaning device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0019] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0020] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.
[0021] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.
[0022] The present invention relates to an automated floor and carpet cleaning device that is capable of autonomously clean dust and debris from floors, with additional functionality to detect and clean carpet stains. Moreover, the device identifies and eradicate microbial growth on the floor, providing a comprehensive cleaning facility.
[0023] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of an automated floor and carpet cleaning device is illustrated, comprises of a housing 101 provided with a plurality of motorised omnidirectional wheels 102, a sensing unit 103 integrated with the housing 101, a box 104 located within the housing 101 with a vacuum unit 105, an articulated hose 106 provided underneath the housing 101 connected with the vacuum unit 105, the hose 106 is articulated by means of an articulated L-shaped telescopic arm 107 attached with the housing 101, a motorised cylindrical member 108 attached with the housing 101 by means of a pair of articulated L-shaped links 109, the member 108 is provided with bristles 110 along lateral surface, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 111 installed on the housing 101, a multi-section chamber 112 disposed within the housing 101, and plurality of nozzles 113 mounted with the housing 101 by means of swivel joints 114.
[0024] Referring to Figure 1, further comprises of a hydraulic pusher 115 attached underneath the housing 101, having a plate 116 attached at a bottom end of the hydraulic pusher 115, a fabric 117 layered with the plate 116, a carpet cleaning unit 118 coupled with the housing 101, the carpet cleaning unit 118 comprising a hollow cylindrical structure 119 attached with the housing 101 by means of telescopic supports 120, a slit 121 longitudinally cut in the structure 119, a pair of clamps 122 mounted along inner surfaces of the structure 119 by means of circular sliders 123, a motorised shaft 124 having brushes attached within the structure 119, plurality of curved plates 125 arranged within the structure 119 by means of pneumatic pushers 126, a multipart receptacle 127 is attached on the structure 119, iris holes 128 carved in the structure 119, and an articulated telescopic limb 129 attached with the housing 101 having a sharp flap 130 at an end.
[0025] The present invention includes a housing 101 incorporating various components associated with the device, developed to be positioned on a ground surface. The housing 101 is configured with multiple motorised omnidirectional wheels 102 installed underneath the housing 101 for a locomotion of the housing 101.
[0026] A user is required to access and presses a push button arranged on the housing 101 to activate the device for associated processes of the device. The push button when pressed by the user, closes an electrical circuit and allows currents to flow for powering an associated microcontroller of the device for operating of all the linked components for performing their respective functions upon actuation. The microcontroller, mentioned herein, is preferably an Arduino microcontroller. The Arduino microcontroller used herein controls the overall functionality of the linked components.
[0027] After the activation of the device, the user accesses a user interface which is installed in a computing unit linked with the microcontroller wirelessly by means of a communication module. The user interface enables the user to provide input regarding initiation of cleaning operation for cleaning floor and carpet area. The communication module includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module. The Wi-Fi module contains transmitters and receivers that use radio frequency signals to transmit data wirelessly to the microcontroller. The wireless module typically includes components such as antennas, amplifiers, and processors to facilitate communication and further connected to networks such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks, allowing devices to exchange information over short or long distances for communication of wireless commands to facilitate operations of the device.
[0028] The housing 101 is arranged with a sensing unit 103 to detect texture and shape of floor to be cleaned. The sensing unit 103, comprising an optical infrared sensor and a LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor, functions as the core detection of the floor conditioning, enabling the microcontroller to perceive and respond to various surface conditions and obstacles with high accuracy. The optical infrared sensor operates by emitting infrared light and measuring the reflection from the floor surface. The optical infrared sensor helps detect variations in texture, moisture, and material composition of the floor.
[0029] In an exemplary embodiment, differences between tile, wood, carpet, or wet surfaces result in distinct reflection patterns, allowing the sensor to classify the floor type and floor condition and also capable of detecting dust or stains based on changes in reflectivity, thereby enabling the microcontroller in determining the level and type of cleaning required.
[0030] The LiDAR sensor of the sensing unit 103 enhances spatial awareness by emitting laser pulses and measuring the time taken to bounce back after hitting surfaces of the floor. The time-of-flight data enables the device to construct a high-resolution 3D map of the environment. The LiDAR sensor provides precise distance measurements, allowing the device to identify floor-level variations. Additionally, by analyzing surface contours, the LiDAR sensor helps detect the shape and depth of debris or spills, which is critical for determining whether to initiate vacuuming, scrubbing, or fluid dispensing. The microcontroller analyzes the collected data of the sensing unit 103 to determine texture and shape of floor to be cleaned.
[0031] Upon receiving of the user input, the microcontroller generates a command to activate an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 111 integrated on the housing 101 for capturing multiple images in a vicinity of the housing 101. The imaging unit 111 works in synchronization with the sensing unit 103 to determine position of dust and debris and dimensions of debris on the floor. The imaging unit 111 incorporates a processor that is encrypted with an artificial intelligence protocol. The artificial intelligence protocol operates by following a set of predefined instructions to process data and perform tasks autonomously. Initially, data is collected and input into a database, which then employs protocol to analyze and interpret the captured images. The processor of the imaging unit 111 via the artificial intelligence protocol processes the captured images and sent the signal to the microcontroller to determine position of dust and debris and dimensions of debris on the floor.
[0032] In accordance to the detected dust and debris, the microcontroller then powers an associated direct current (DC) motor connected with the wheels 102. The wheels 102 have small discs or rollers around the circumference of the wheel that are powered by the motor, enabling the wheels 102 to move in required direction, which provide the housing 101 with the required movement for maneuvering over the surface to position the housing 101 adjacent to the area of floor with dust and debris.
[0033] The housing 101 incorporates a box 104 configured with a vacuum unit 105 for suctioning dust and debris from the floor. The box 104 is connected with an articulated hose 106 which is provided underneath the housing 101. The hose 106 is articulated by means of an articulated L-shaped telescopic arm 107 attached with the housing 101 and the hose 106 by means of a rotatable joint. A pneumatic arrangement is associated with the device for providing extension/retraction of the telescopic arm 107 as per requirement. The articulated movement of the telescopic arm 107 is provided by the rotatable joint.
[0034] The microcontroller actuates an air compressor and air valve associated with the pneumatic arrangement consisting of an air cylinder, air valve and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the telescopic arm 107. The air valve allows entry/exit of compressed air from the compressor. Then, the valve opens and the compressed air enters inside the cylinder thereby increasing the air pressure of the cylinder. The piston is connected to the telescopic arm 107 and due to the increase in the air pressure, the piston extends. For the retraction of the piston, air is released from the cylinder to the air compressor via the valve. Thus, providing the required extension / retraction of the telescopic arm 107, for positioning of the outlet of the hose 106 in proximity of the floor. All the pneumatically operated components associated with the device comprises of the same type of pneumatic arrangement.
[0035] The housing 101 is configured with a motorized cylindrical member 108 by means of a pair of articulated L-shaped links 109. The member 108 is arranged with multiple bristles 110 for sweeping of dust from the floor. The extension / retraction of the links 109 is powered by the pneumatic arrangement. The working of the extension / retraction of the links 109 is similar to the working of the hose 106 as mentioned above. The microcontroller actuates the links 109 via the pneumatic arrangement to position the member 108 in contact with the floor for providing repetitive movement to the member 108. The repetitive movement of the member 108 sweeps the dust and debris from the floor towards the hose 106 via the bristles 110.
[0036] Synchronously, the microcontroller actuates the vacuum unit 105 to extract dust from the floor. The vacuum unit 105 works on the principle of creating a partial vacuum, which generates suction to withdraw the dust. This suction is created by a direct current (DC) motor that powers the vacuum unit 105, and the air movement is vital in functioning in order to collect the dust in the linked box 104 via the hose 106.
[0037] The microcontroller via the imaging unit 111 detects presence of adhered residue on the floor. An articulated telescopic limb 129 is attached with the housing 101. The limb 129 is integrated with a sharp flap 130 as an end effector. The extension/retraction of the telescopic limb 129 is powered by the pneumatic arrangement. The working of the extension/retraction of the telescopic limb 129 is similar to the working of the telescopic arm 107 as mentioned above. The microcontroller actuates the telescopic limb 129 via the pneumatic arrangement for scraping of adhered residue on the floor as detected by the imaging unit 111.
[0038] For cleaning of the floor, the housing 101 is arranged with a multi-section chamber 112 for storage of a variety of cleaning fluids. Each of the section of the chamber 112 is connected with a nozzle 113 by means of swivel joints 114. Post removal of dust from the floor, the microcontroller actuates the nozzles 113 for selectively dispensing cleaning fluids in accordance with texture and condition of floor as detected by the sensing unit 103.
[0039] Each of the electronic nozzle 113, used herein, is a short tube with a taper integrated with fine-tuned valve or orifice that is electronically regulated to speed up or regulate the flow of the cleaning fluids. The valve controls flow of the cleaning fluids by varying the size of the flow passage as directed by a signal from the microcontroller. This enables the direct control of flow rate and the consequential control of process quantities such as pressure, and cleaning fluids level in view of dispensing the cleaning fluids as per the determined requirement.
[0040] The articulated movement to the nozzles is provided by the swivel joints 114. Each of the swivel joint 114 allows rotational movement of the connected nozzle. The swivel joint 114 consists of two parts: one fixed and one rotating, connected by a pivot or ball mechanism. This design enables 360-degree rotation, facilitating flexible movement and alignment of the nozzle to dispense cleaning fluids over the floor in effective manner.
[0041] The bottom portion of the housing 101 incorporates a hydraulic pusher 115. A plate 116 is attached at a bottom end of the hydraulic pusher 115. The plate 116 is integrated with a fabric 117 layer. A hydraulic arrangement is associated with the device for providing extension/retraction the pusher 115 as per requirement.
[0042] The microcontroller actuates a hydraulic pump and hydraulic valve associated with a hydraulic arrangement consisting of a hydraulic cylinder, hydraulic valve and piston that work in collaboration for providing the required extension/retraction to the pusher 115 to allow passage of hydraulic fluid from the pump within the cylinder, the hydraulic fluid further develops pressure against the piston and results in pushing and extending the piston. The piston is connected with the pusher 115 and due to applied pressure the pusher 115 extends and similarly, the microcontroller retracts the pusher 115 by closing the valve resulting in retraction of the piston. The microcontroller regulates the extension/retraction of the pusher 115 thereby positioning the plate 116 in contact with the floor. The repetitive extension/retraction of the pusher 115 results in scrubbing of the floor with the cleaning fluids via the fabric 117 of the plate 116. All the hydraulically operated components associated with the device comprises of the same type of hydraulic arrangement.
[0043] The articulated movement to the plate 116 is provided by a ball and socket joint installed in between the pusher 115 and the plate 116. The ball and socket joint provides a 360-degree rotation to the plate 116 for aiding the plate 116 to turn at a desired angle. The ball and socket joint is a coupling consisting of a ball joint securely locked within a socket joint, where the ball joint is able to move in a 360-dgree rotation within the socket thus, providing the required rotational motion to the plate 116. The ball and socket joint is powered by a DC (direct current) motor that is actuated by the microcontroller, thus imparting rotational movement to the plate 116 for scrubbing of non-planar floors.
[0044] The housing 101 is arranged with a carpet cleaning unit 118 for cleaning of carpets positioned on the floor. The carpet cleaning unit 118 comprising a hollow cylindrical structure 119 attached with the housing 101 by means of telescopic supports 120. The extension/retraction of the supports 120 is powered by the pneumatic arrangement. The working of the extension/retraction of the telescopic supports 120 is similar to the working of the telescopic arm 107 as mentioned above.
[0045] The structure 119 is carved with a slit 121 longitudinally cut in the structure 119 for passage of carpet into the structure 119. The microcontroller actuates the telescopic supports 120 the via the pneumatic arrangement for positioning the structure 119 adjacent to the slit 121 of the structure 119 to engage a first edge of the carpet within the slit 121.
[0046] Post engagement of the carpet within the slit 121, the microcontroller actuates the clamps 122 to grip the edge of the carpet. Each of the clamp 122 operates by utilizing a direct current electric motor to control the opening and closing of its jaws. When activated, the motor moves a threaded rod connected to one jaw, causing it to slide relative to the fixed jaw. This movement either opens or closes the clamp 122, allowing to grip or release the edge of the carpet with precision and force.
[0047] Simultaneously, the microcontroller actuates the slider 123 for spooling of carpet into the structure 119. Each of the slider 123 is associated with a circular sliding rail fabricated with grooves in which the wheel of the slider 123 is positioned that is further connected with a bi-directional motor via a shaft. The microcontroller actuates the bi-directional motor to rotate in a clockwise and anti-clockwise direction that aids in the rotation of the shaft, wherein the shaft converts the electrical energy into rotational energy for allowing movement of the wheel to translate over the sliding rail by a firm grip on the grooves. The movement of the slider 123 results in the translation of the clamp 122 within the structure 119.
[0048] A motorised shaft 124 is positioned inside the structure 119. The shaft 124 having brushes for scrubbing the carpet in the structure 119. The microcontroller actuates a direct current (DC) motor associated with the shaft 124 such that rotates an integrated hub of the shaft 124 consequently results in rotation of the shaft 124 for scrubbing the carpet in the structure 119.
[0049] The microcontroller via the imaging unit 111 determines the portion of the carpet having stains and accordingly the microcontroller actuate the clamps 122 and sliders 123 to position the stained portion of carpet in the structure 119 for scrubbing.
[0050] The structure 119 is attached with a multipart receptacle storing cleaning solutions. An iris hole 128 is integrated at bottom portion of structure 119 connected with each part of the receptacle. In accordance to the detected type of stains, the microcontroller actuates iris hole 128 of the part of the receptacle storing particular cleaning solution to clean the stains.
[0051] Each of the iris hole 128, mentioned herein, consists of a ring in bottom configured with multiple slots along periphery, multiple number of blades and blade actuating ring on the top. The blades are pivotally jointed with blade actuating ring and the base plate 116 are hooked over the blade. The blade actuating ring is rotated clock and antilock wise by a DC motor embedded in ball actuating ring which results in opening of the hole 128 to dispense cleaning solution into the structure 119 for cleaning of the carpet.
[0052] The structure 119 incorporates a plurality of curved plates 125 which are arranged inside the structure 119 by means of pneumatic pushers 126. The extension/retraction of the pushers 126 is powered by the pneumatic arrangement. The working of the extension/retraction of the pushers 126 is similar to the working of the telescopic arm 107 as mentioned above.
[0053] During the actuation of the shaft 124 for cleaning of the carpet, the microcontroller actuates the pushers 126 via the pneumatic arrangement for pressing the carpet onto the shaft 124 in view of pressurised scrubbing of the carpet.
[0054] In addition, the housing 101 is embedded with a biosensor for detecting microbial growth on the floor. The biosensor employs a combination of chemical and biological detection methods that are sensitive to the presence of bacteria, fungi, mold, or other microorganisms commonly found on surfaces of floor. The biosensor is equipped with a sensitive biological receptor, such as an enzyme or antibody, that binds to specific microbial cells or metabolic products. When these microorganisms are present on the floor, the biosensor detects a biochemical reaction, such as a change in electrical conductivity, pH, or optical properties, triggered by the microbial activity. In an exemplary embodiment, the biosensor reacts to compounds like volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or other metabolites produced by microbes, such as those released by mold or bacteria as they grow on surfaces of the floor.
[0055] For removal of the detected microbial growth, the microcontroller activates a UV (ultraviolet) lamp to attached with the housing 101 to eradicate the microbial growth. The UV lamp is effective against all pathogens, bacteria, molds, yeasts, etc. The ultraviolet light emitted by the lamp breaks down the chemical bonds, thus, scrambling the structure 119 of DNA, RNA and proteins of microbes which removes the microorganism from the floor to eradicate the microbial growth.
[0056] A battery (not shown in figure) is associated with the device to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein. The battery is comprised of a pair of electrodes named as a cathode and an anode. The battery uses a chemical reaction of oxidation/reduction to do work on charge and produce a voltage between their anode and cathode and thus produces electrical energy that is used to do work in the device.
[0057] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the present invention utilizes the housing 101 with motorized omnidirectional wheels 102 for movement, and the sensing unit 103 integrated with the housing 101 that detects the floor's texture and shape. The sensing unit 103 is synchronized with the imaging unit 111, which records and processes images to identify the location, dimensions, and condition of dust, debris, and stains. The imaging unit 111 triggers the microcontroller to position the housing 101 appropriately, with the articulated hose 106 and vacuum unit 105 beneath the housing 101 to suction dust and debris. The motorized cylindrical member 108 with bristles 110 sweeps debris towards the hose 106, while the sensing unit 103 directs the operation of the multi-section chamber 112 containing cleaning fluids, which are dispensed through nozzles 113 to suit the floor's condition. The hydraulic pusher 115 with the fabric 117 layered plate 116 scrubs the floor using the cleaning fluids. For carpet cleaning, the housing 101 includes the carpet cleaning unit 118 with the cylindrical structure 119, clamps 122, and the motorized shaft 124 with brushes for scrubbing. The housing 101 detects microbial growth via the biosensor, activating the UV lamp to eradicate the microbial growth, and also incorporates the articulated telescopic limb 129 for scraping adhered residue. The sensing unit 103 includes sensors, such as optical infrared and LIDAR, which work in tandem with the components, ensuring efficient cleaning based on real-time floor analysis
[0058] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) An automated floor and carpet cleaning device, comprising:
a) a housing 101 provided with a plurality of motorised omnidirectional wheels 102 installed underneath said housing 101 for a locomotion of said housing 101;
b) a sensing unit 103 integrated with said housing 101 to detect texture and shape of floor to be cleaned;
c) a box 104 located within said housing 101 with a vacuum unit 105 configured within said box 104 for suctioning dust and debris from said floor via an articulated hose 106 provided underneath said housing 101 connected with said vacuum unit 105;
d) a motorised cylindrical member 108 attached with said housing 101 by means of a pair of articulated L-shaped links 109, wherein said member 108 is provided with bristles 110 along lateral surface for sweeping of dust and debris towards said hose 106;
e) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 111, installed on said housing 101 and integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in a vicinity of said housing 101, in synchronization with said sensing unit 103, to determine position of dust and debris and dimensions of debris on said floor trigger a microcontroller to actuate said wheels 102 to position said housing 101 adjacent to said debris, said links 109 and member 108 to sweep said dust and debris towards said hose 106 and said vacuum unit 105 to apply a suction force in accordance with said detected dimensions for collecting said debris into said box 104 ;
f) a multi-section chamber 112 disposed within said housing 101 for storage of a variety of cleaning fluids, wherein a plurality of nozzles 113 is mounted with said housing 101 by means of swivel joints 114, connected with said chamber 112 for selectively dispensing cleaning fluids in accordance with texture and condition of floor detected by said sensing unit 103;
g) a hydraulic pusher 115 attached underneath said housing 101, having a plate 116 attached at a bottom end of said hydraulic pusher 115, wherein a fabric 117 is layered with said plate 116 for scrubbing of floor with said cleaning fluids; and
h) a carpet cleaning unit 118 coupled with said housing 101 for cleaning of carpets, said carpet cleaning unit 118 comprising a hollow cylindrical structure 119 attached with said housing 101 by means of telescopic supports 120, a slit 121 longitudinally cut in said structure 119 for passage of carpet into said structure 119, a pair of clamps 122 mounted along inner surfaces of said structure 119 by means of circular sliders 123 for spooling of carpet into said structure 119, and a motorised shaft 124 having brushes attached within said structure 119 for scrubbing said carpet in said structure 119.
2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensing unit 103 comprises an optical infrared sensor and a LIDAR (light detection and ranging) sensor.
3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said hose 106 is articulated by means of an articulated L-shaped telescopic arm 107 attached with said housing 101 and said hose 106.
4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said plate 116 is attached with said hydraulic pusher 115 by means of a ball and socket joint for imparting rotational movement to said plate 116 for scrubbing of non-planar floors.
5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a plurality of curved plates 125 is arranged within said structure 119 by means of pneumatic pushers 126 for pressing said carpet onto said shaft 124 for pressurised scrubbing.
6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said imaging unit 111 determines portion of said carpet having stains to actuate said clamps 122 and sliders 123 to position said stained portion of carpet in said structure 119 for scrubbing.
7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a multipart receptacle 127 is attached on said structure 119, containing cleaning solutions for dispensing said solutions into said structure 119 via iris holes 128 carved in said structure 119 for cleaning of said carpet, wherein said solutions are dispensed based on type of stain detected by said imaging unit 111.
8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a biosensor is coupled with said housing 101 for detecting microbial growth on said floor to actuate a UV (ultraviolet) lamp to attached with said housing 101 to eradicate said microbial growth.
9) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an articulated telescopic limb 129 is attached with said housing 101 having a sharp flap 130 at an end for scraping of adhered residue on said floor as detected by said imaging unit 111.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202541036127-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [14-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-14 |
| 2 | 202541036127-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [14-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-14 |
| 3 | 202541036127-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [14-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-14 |
| 4 | 202541036127-PROOF OF RIGHT [14-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-14 |
| 5 | 202541036127-POWER OF AUTHORITY [14-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-14 |
| 6 | 202541036127-FORM-9 [14-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-14 |
| 7 | 202541036127-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [14-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-14 |
| 8 | 202541036127-FORM 18 [14-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-14 |
| 9 | 202541036127-FORM 1 [14-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-14 |
| 10 | 202541036127-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [14-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-14 |
| 11 | 202541036127-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [14-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-14 |
| 12 | 202541036127-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [14-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-14 |
| 13 | 202541036127-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [14-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-14 |
| 14 | 202541036127-DRAWINGS [14-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-14 |
| 15 | 202541036127-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [14-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-14 |
| 16 | 202541036127-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [14-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-14 |