U.S. patent application number 15/712242 was filed with the patent office on 2018-03-22 for docking station for coupling autonomous vacuum to central vacuum.
The applicant listed for this patent is Jeremiah Bollengier, Martin Gagnon, Jill Hamilton, Patrick Helbert, Mathieu Lalancette Jutras, Brent Lillesand, Jessica Lindquist, James Sheremeta, Richard R. Sinur. Invention is credited to Jeremiah Bollengier, Martin Gagnon, Jill Hamilton, Patrick Helbert, Mathieu Lalancette Jutras, Brent Lillesand, Jessica Lindquist, James Sheremeta, Richard R. Sinur.
Application Number | 20180078107 15/712242 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 61618188 |
Filed Date | 2018-03-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180078107 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gagnon; Martin ; et
al. |
March 22, 2018 |
DOCKING STATION FOR COUPLING AUTONOMOUS VACUUM TO CENTRAL
VACUUM
Abstract
A central vacuum system for collecting debris can include an
autonomous vacuum system and a central vacuum fluidly connected to
a remote intake port, the central vacuum being operable to generate
a central airflow into the remote intake port. The autonomous
vacuum system can comprise a collection bin fluidly connected to a
debris intake and further include an onboard vacuum operable to
generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the
collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw debris through the
debris intake into the collection bin. The autonomous vacuum system
can further comprise an output connector fluidly connected to the
collection bin. The output connector can be coupled to a remote
intake port fluidly connected to a central vacuum operable to
generate a central airflow to draw debris from the collection bin
into the remote intake port positioned in the remote space.
Inventors: |
Gagnon; Martin; (Quebec,
CA) ; Lalancette Jutras; Mathieu; (Quebec, CA)
; Helbert; Patrick; (Quebec, CA) ; Sinur; Richard
R.; (West Bend, WI) ; Lillesand; Brent;
(Madison, WI) ; Lindquist; Jessica; (Hartland,
WI) ; Hamilton; Jill; (Hillsburgh, CA) ;
Bollengier; Jeremiah; (North Aurora, IL) ; Sheremeta;
James; (Grand Valley, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Gagnon; Martin
Lalancette Jutras; Mathieu
Helbert; Patrick
Sinur; Richard R.
Lillesand; Brent
Lindquist; Jessica
Hamilton; Jill
Bollengier; Jeremiah
Sheremeta; James |
Quebec
Quebec
Quebec
West Bend
Madison
Hartland
Hillsburgh
North Aurora
Grand Valley |
WI
WI
WI
IL |
CA
CA
CA
US
US
US
CA
US
CA |
|
|
Family ID: |
61618188 |
Appl. No.: |
15/712242 |
Filed: |
September 22, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62398205 |
Sep 22, 2016 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47L 9/122 20130101;
A47L 9/0477 20130101; A47L 9/281 20130101; A47L 2201/022 20130101;
A47L 2201/024 20130101; A47L 5/38 20130101; A47L 9/2821 20130101;
A47L 9/2884 20130101; A47L 9/20 20130101; A47L 9/0488 20130101;
A47L 9/009 20130101; A47L 9/2889 20130101; A47L 9/2873 20130101;
A47L 9/2894 20130101; F24F 3/1603 20130101; A47L 9/12 20130101;
A47L 9/1409 20130101; A47L 9/149 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47L 9/28 20060101
A47L009/28; A47L 9/12 20060101 A47L009/12; A47L 9/04 20060101
A47L009/04; A47L 9/20 20060101 A47L009/20; A47L 9/14 20060101
A47L009/14; A47L 9/00 20060101 A47L009/00; A47L 5/38 20060101
A47L005/38 |
Claims
1. A central vacuum system for collecting debris within a remote
space, comprising: a central vacuum fluidly connected to a remote
intake port, the central vacuum being operable to generate a
central airflow into the remote intake port; and an autonomous
vacuum system comprising: a collection bin fluidly connected to a
debris intake, an onboard vacuum operable to generate a suction
airflow from the debris intake into the collection bin to the
onboard vacuum to draw debris through the debris intake into the
collection bin, and an output connector fluidly connected to the
collection bin; wherein the autonomous vacuum system is movable to
couple the output connector to the remote intake port such that the
central airflow draws debris from the collection bin into the
remote intake port.
2. The central vacuum system of claim 1, wherein the autonomous
vacuum system further comprises: a movement system including at
least one of a wheel, tracker, roller, gear, or combination thereof
for moving the autonomous vacuum system.
3. The central vacuum system of claim 2, wherein the movement
system is operable to move the autonomous vacuum system between a
docked position in which the output connector is coupled to the
remote intake port and an undocked position in which the output
connector is decoupled to the remote intake port.
4. The central vacuum system of claim 3, wherein the onboard vacuum
is operable to generate the suction airflow to draw debris through
the debris intake into the collection bin when the autonomous
vacuum system is in the undocked position.
5. The central vacuum system of claim 3, wherein the onboard vacuum
is operated to generate the suction airflow while the central
vacuum is operated to generate the central airflow when in the
docked position to agitate debris within the collection bin.
6. The central vacuum system of claim 1, wherein the remote intake
port is at a predetermined height in a wall defining the remote
space.
7. The central vacuum system of claim 1, wherein the onboard vacuum
is operable to generate the suction airflow in a pulsed
sequence.
8. The mobile system of claim 1, wherein the autonomous vacuum
system further comprises: at least one roller proximate the debris
intake; wherein the at least one roller is rotatable to draw debris
into the debris intake.
9. The central vacuum system of claim 1, further comprising: a dock
for receiving the autonomous vacuum system, the dock comprising: a
docking port fluidly connected to the remote intake port; and at
least one alignment feature; wherein the at least one alignment
feature is configured to engage the autonomous vacuum system to
align the output connector with the docking port.
10. The central vacuum system of claim 9, wherein the dock further
comprises: at least one alignment feature configured to engage the
autonomous vacuum system to align the output connector with the
docking port.
11. The central vacuum system of claim 9, wherein the dock further
comprises: a garage housing defining an internal space for
receiving the autonomous vacuum system; and a garage door moveable
between an open position permitting access to the internal space
and a closed position obstructing access to the internal space.
12. The central vacuum system of claim 11, wherein the garage is
mounted beneath a cabinet.
13. The central vacuum system of claim 9, wherein the autonomous
vacuum system further comprises: an onboard power supply for
powering the autonomous vacuum system; and at least one device
contact for receiving an electrical current to charge the onboard
power supply.
14. The central vacuum system of claim 13, wherein the dock further
comprises: at least one dock contact corresponding to the at least
one device contact; wherein the at least one dock contact is
positioned to contact the at least one device contact to provide
the electrical current to the at least one device contact to charge
the onboard power supply.
15. The central vacuum system of claim 9, wherein the docking port
further comprises: a selective valve moveable between a closed
position obstructing airflow through the remote intake port and an
open position permitting airflow through the remote intake port;
wherein the selective valve is biased to the closed position,
wherein engagement of the output connector to the docking port
moves the selective valve to the open position.
16. A method for collecting debris in a remote space, comprising:
providing an autonomous vacuum system comprising a collection bin,
a debris intake, and an onboard vacuum; operating the onboard
vacuum to generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into
the collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw debris through the
debris intake into the collection bin; coupling an output connector
to a remote intake port, wherein the output connector is fluidly
connected to the collection bin; and operating a central vacuum
fluidly connected to the remote intake port to generate the central
airflow drawing debris from the collection bin into the remote
intake port.
17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: moving the
autonomous vacuum system into a docked position in which the output
connector is coupled to the remote intake port; and moving the
undocked position in which the output connector is decoupled to the
remote intake port.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein the onboard vacuum is operated
to generate the suction airflow to draw debris through the debris
intake into the collection bin when the autonomous vacuum system is
in the undocked position.
19. The method of claim 17, wherein the onboard vacuum is operated
to generate the suction airflow and the central vacuum operated to
generate the central airflow when in the docked position to agitate
debris within the collection bin and facilitate moving debris into
the remote intake port.
20. The method of claim 16, further comprising: operating the
onboard vacuum to pulse the suction airflow.
21. The method of claim 16, further comprising: moving the
autonomous vacuum system along a predetermined path; wherein the
autonomous vacuum system is positioned to coupled the output
connector to the remote intake port at one position on the
predetermined path.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This document pertains generally, but not by way of
limitation, to a system for autonomously gathering debris in a
space within an autonomous vacuum system and autonomously disposing
of the gathered debris.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Autonomous or robotic vacuum cleaners commonly comprise a
self-propelled vacuum unit that autonomously travels through a
space vacuuming debris from the floor onto an onboard storage space
or bin. Typically, the robotic vacuum units are significantly
smaller than conventional vacuum cleaners to permit the robotic
units to more maneuver around and beneath obstacles and
unobtrusively parking when not in use. However, the comparatively
smaller size of the robotic units that the internal components,
such as the internal debris bin, be correspondingly miniaturized.
Also, robotic vacuum units also include components not ordinarily
found in conventional vacuum cleaners, such as batteries or
movement systems, requiring further miniaturization of the other
internal components. As such, a common drawback of robotic vacuum
units is that the small internal debris bin quickly fills and must
frequently be emptied, typically by hand.
[0003] Failing to properly or regularly emptying the internal
debris bin reduces the efficiency of the vacuum unit for gathering
debris can be diminished, or the vacuum unit may cease to gather
debris if the debris bin is full. As vacuum units are typically
programmed to clean at times when people are absent from the space
or sleeping, the vacuum units can fill the debris bin before the
intended cleaning is complete forcing a pause in cleaning until
emptying of the debris bin. The frequent manual emptying of the
debris bin can be inconvenient and can create unplanned pauses in
the cleaning process if the debris bin is insufficiently or
infrequently emptied. Similarly, opening the debris bin to empty
the bin often exposes the collected debris to the air allowing the
dust and other debris to be released, which can reduce the overall
air quality within the space.
Overview
[0004] The present inventors have recognized, among other things,
that a problem to be solved can include regularly and efficiently
emptying debris from a robotic vacuum unit. In an example, the
present subject matter can provide a solution to this problem, such
as by providing an autonomous vacuum system that can move about a
space collecting debris and configured to couple to a central
vacuum that can draw collected debris into a remote intake port to
the central vacuum. The autonomous vacuum system can move about the
space in a predetermined pattern or randomly within a bounded area
collecting debris from the floor of the space. After the autonomous
vacuum system has filled an internal collection bin or after a
predetermined time, the autonomous vacuum system can be maneuvered
to couple the autonomous vacuum system to the remote intake port of
the central vacuum. The central vacuum can be operated to create a
central airflow drawing debris collected within the internal
collection bin to empty the collection bin.
[0005] In an example, an autonomous vacuum system for collecting
debris in a remote space can comprise a collection bin fluidly
connected to a debris intake. The autonomous vacuum system can
further include an onboard vacuum operable to generate a suction
airflow from the debris intake into the collection bin to the
onboard vacuum to draw debris through the debris intake into the
collection bin. The autonomous vacuum system can further comprise
an output connector fluidly connected to the collection bin. The
output connector can be coupled to a remote intake port fluidly
connected to a central vacuum operable to generate a central
airflow to draw debris from the collection bin into the remote
intake port positioned in the remote space.
[0006] The movement system can move the autonomous vacuum system
between a docked position in which the output connector is coupled
to the remote intake port and an undocked position in which the
output connector is decoupled to the remote intake port. The
onboard vacuum can generate the suction airflow to draw debris
through the debris intake into the collection bin when the
autonomous vacuum system is in the undocked position. The onboard
vacuum can generate the suction airflow and the central vacuum
configured to generate the central airflow when in the docked
position to agitate debris within the collection bin.
[0007] In an example, a central vacuum system for collecting debris
within a remote space can include an autonomous vacuum system and a
central vacuum fluidly connected to a remote intake port, the
central vacuum being operable to generate a central airflow into
the remote intake port. The autonomous vacuum system can comprise a
collection bin fluidly connected to a debris intake and further
include an onboard vacuum operable to generate a suction airflow
from the debris intake into the collection bin to the onboard
vacuum to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection
bin. The autonomous vacuum system can further comprise an output
connector fluidly connected to the collection bin. The output
connector can be coupled to a remote intake port fluidly connected
to a central vacuum operable to generate a central airflow to draw
debris from the collection bin into the remote intake port
positioned in the remote space.
[0008] The central vacuum system can include a dock for receiving
the autonomous vacuum system. The dock can comprise a docking port
fluidly connected to the remote intake port and at least one
alignment feature. The at least one alignment feature can be
configured to engage the autonomous vacuum system to align the
output connector with the docking port.
[0009] This overview is intended to provide an overview of subject
matter of the present patent application. It is not intended to
provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the present
subject matter. The detailed description is included to provide
further information about the present patent application.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale,
like numerals may describe similar components in different views.
Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent
different instances of similar components. The drawings generally
illustrate, by way of example, but not by way of limitation,
various embodiments discussed in the present document.
[0011] FIG. 1 depicts a schematic side view of an autonomous vacuum
system according to an example of the present invention.
[0012] FIG. 2 depicts a schematic side view of a central vacuum
system including an autonomous vacuum system coupled to a central
vacuum according to an example of the present invention.
[0013] FIG. 3 depicts a schematic side view of the central vacuum
system depicted in FIG. 2 illustrating a reverse airflow through a
filter of the autonomous vacuum system according to an example of
the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 4 depicts a schematic side view of a central vacuum
system including an autonomous vacuum system coupled to a central
vacuum and having at least one jet opening into a collection bin of
the autonomous vacuum system according to an example of the present
invention.
[0015] FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of a
collection bin according to an example of the present
disclosure.
[0016] FIG. 6 is a top view of the collection bin depicted in FIG.
7.
[0017] FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of a
collection bin according to an example of the present
disclosure.
[0018] FIG. 8 is a top view of the collection bin depicted in FIG.
7.
[0019] FIG. 9 is a schematic side view of a central vacuum system
having an autonomous vacuum system mounted to a dock according to
an example of the present disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of a central vacuum system
received within a garage according to an example of the present
disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 11 is a schematic side view of a central vacuum system
configured to deposit debris in a floor port according to an
example of the present disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 12 is a schematic side view of an autonomous vacuum
system having an interchangeable module according to an example of
the present disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of an autonomous
vacuum system having a first interchangeable module and a second
interchangeable module according to an example of the present
disclosure.
[0024] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating movement an
autonomous vacuum system within a space according to an example of
the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] As depicted in FIG. 1, an autonomous vacuum system 20,
according to an example of the present disclosure, can comprise a
housing 22, an onboard vacuum 24, and a collection bin 26. The
onboard vacuum 24 can be operated to generate a suction airflow
into a debris intake 28 defined by the housing 22, through the
collection bin 26, and out an exterior vent 30 defined by the
housing 22. Debris can be entrained in the suction airflow
proximate the debris intake 28 and deposited in the collection bin
26. In an example, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can include at
least one intake roller 32 rotatable to agitate debris on the floor
proximate the debris intake 28 to facilitate entrainment of the
debris in the suction airflow created by the onboard vacuum 24. The
rotation of the at least one intake roller 32 can also draw debris
into the debris intake 28 for entrainment of the debris in the
suction airflow created by the onboard vacuum 24. In certain
examples, the at least one intake roller 32 can include a cutting
device, a mechanical comb or rake, or combinations thereof for
cutting or separating clumps of debris as debris is drawn into the
debris intake 28.
[0026] As depicted in FIG. 1, in an example, the autonomous vacuum
system 20 can include a filter 34 positioned between the collection
bin 26 and the onboard vacuum 24. The filter 34 can permit the
suction airflow to pass through the filter 34 while capturing
debris entrained the suction airflow and capturing the debris in
the collection bin 26. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the onboard vacuum
24 can be operated to generate a reverse airflow into the exterior
vent 30, across the filter 34, and into the collection bin 26. The
reverse airflow can free debris captured in the filter 34 to push
the debris into collection bin 26. In at least one example, the at
least one intake roller 32 can be rotated in a reversed direction
to facilitate the generation of the reverse airflow. In certain
examples, the onboard vacuum 24 and/or the at least one intake
roller 32 can be operated to generate the reversed airflow for a
predetermined time period, operated in a pulsed sequence, or cycled
between the suction airflow and the reverse airflow to loosen
debris captured in the filter.
[0027] In an example, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can include
at least one material collection sensor for monitoring the volume
or amount of debris collected by the autonomous vacuum system 20.
The autonomous vacuum system 20 can include infrared, optical,
laser or other sensors positioned proximate the debris intake 28
for monitoring debris entering through the debris intake 28. The
autonomous vacuum system 20 can have weight, pressure, or other
sensors connected to the collection bin 26 for monitoring debris
captured within the collection bin. The material collection sensor
can monitor the debris collected for a variety of metrics
including, but not limited to debris collected over certain time
periods, operational cycles, and spaces to be cleaned.
[0028] In certain examples, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can
communicate with a central computer of a home automation system to
provide analytics of the debris collected by the autonomous vacuum
system. The home automation system can signal the autonomous vacuum
system 20 to alter the programming of the autonomous vacuum system
20 to alter the spaces to be cleaned, the cleaning path, the order
of the cleaning, the duration or frequency of the cleaning, and
other operational parameters of the autonomous vacuum system 20.
The altered programming can cause the autonomous vacuum system 20
to focus the operation of the autonomous vacuum system in more
critical areas improving battery life, reduce mechanical wear on
the machine, reduce maintenance, and other advantages. The home
automation system can aggregate the collected information to direct
the user to areas of the space that could require deeper cleaning
with manual vacuum, steam cleaner, or carpet shampooer system. The
home automation system can provide other analytics including, but
not limited to the percentage of debris picked up by the robotic
vacuum vs. percentage picked up directly with the central
vacuum.
[0029] In an example, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can include
an evaluation sensor for determining the debris content. For
example, the evaluation sensor can determine if the debris
includes, for example, dust, dust mites, pollen, allergens, fecal
material, and other materials. The autonomous vacuum system 20 can
alter the cleaning pattern, frequency and other parameters
according to the content of the debris. In certain examples, the
autonomous vacuum system 20 can cease cleaning if dangerous or
hazardous materials are detected in the debris to avoid potentially
spreading the debris around during the cleaning process. The
autonomous vacuum system 20 can also signal the user or a home
automation system if dangerous materials are detected in the
debris.
[0030] In an example, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can include
at least one environmental sensor for monitoring conditions within
the space as the autonomous vacuum system 20 moves through the
cleaning process. The environmental sensor can gather the
information about temperature, humidity, air quality, and other
environmental information. In this configuration, the autonomous
vacuum system 20 operates as a remote environmental sensor for the
home automation system. The home automation system 20 can use the
collected information to operate other devices such as, but not
limited to bathroom ventilation fans, kitchen range hoods,
balancing ventilation fans or dampers, HVAC systems, or other
systems to improve air quality, alter air temperature or other
environmental factors.
[0031] In an example, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can include
an air purifying device operably coupled to the environmental
sensors. The air purifying device can be operated to purify air
proximate the autonomous vacuum system 20 upon detection of poor
air quality or within a designated area to act as a local air
purifier. The autonomous vacuum system 20 can be configured to use
the air purifier during normal cleaning or parked within a
designated space to operate as a local air purifier.
[0032] As depicted in FIG. 2, a central vacuum system 50, according
to an example of the present disclosure, can include the autonomous
vacuum system 20 and a central vacuum 52 fluidly connected to at
least one remote intake port 54. The central vacuum 52 can be
fluidly connected to the at least one remote intake port 54 with
ducting. The central vacuum 52 can be operated to generate a
central airflow entering through the remote intake port 54 and out
an exterior vent 56. In this configuration, the autonomous vacuum
system 20 can include an output connector 36 permitting access to
the collection bin 26. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the autonomous
vacuum system 20 can be maneuvered to couple the output connector
36 to the remote intake port 54. The central vacuum 42 can be
operated to entrain debris within the collection bin 26 within the
central airflow and draw the debris into the remote intake port 54
to empty the collection bin 26. In an example, central vacuum tools
and accessories can be coupled to the remote intake port 54 when
the autonomous vacuum system 20 is undocked from the remote intake
port 54 for conventional operation of the central vacuum system
50.
[0033] In an example, the remote intake port 54 can include a
contact sensor for detecting connection of the autonomous vacuum
system 20 to remote intake port 54. The contact sensor can comprise
an electrical connection, a proximity switch, a Hall-effect sensor,
a mechanical sensor, or other conventional sensing means for
detecting connection of the output connector 36 with the remote
intake port 54. Upon detection of the connection of the autonomous
vacuum system 20, the central vacuum 52 is operated to create the
central airflow. In this configuration, the contact sensor can also
detect attachment of the central vacuum tools and accessories to
the remote intake port 54 and signal the central vacuum 52 to
create the central airflow. In certain examples, the contact sensor
can determine if the autonomous vacuum system 20 is coupled to the
remote intake port 54 or other tools and accessories are coupled to
the remote intake port 54.
[0034] In an example, the connection bin 26 can include a bin
output valve 38 that can selectively obstruct the output connector
36. The bin output valve 38 can move between a closed position
preventing airflow through the output connector 36 and an open
position permitting airflow through the output connector 36. In
certain examples, the bin output valve 38 can bias toward the
closed position, wherein coupling the remote intake port 54 to the
output connector 36 moves the bin output valve 38 into the open
position permitting airflow through the remote intake port 54 and
output connector 36. The weight, velocity, or mechanical apparatus
of the autonomous vacuum system 20 can be used to move the bin
output valve 38 to the open position. In at least one example, the
bin output valve 38 can include a spring loaded pivoting damper
mounted on a pivoting hinge. The pivoting damper is biased toward a
closed position by the spring to obstruct the output connector 36,
wherein engagement of the output connector 36 to the remote intake
port 36 pivots the pivoting damper to an open position to permit
airflow through the output connector 36.
[0035] In an example, the bin output valve 38 can be motorized or
otherwise controlled to manually close the bin output valve 38
while the central vacuum 52 is being operated to close off the
collection bin 26 from the central airflow. The bin output valve 38
can be closed upon receiving a predetermined trigger signal. The
trigger signal can be a time-based delay or a measurement of debris
within a collection bin 26. The debris measurement can be a
pressure switch, an optical sensor or other conventional system for
determining the amount of debris within the collection bin 26 or if
the collection bin 26 has been emptied. The central vacuum 52 can
be deactivated upon detection of the change in pressure from the
closing of the bin output valve 38 and/or upon receiving a
transmitted off signal from the remote intake valve 54. The
transmitted off signal can be transmitted by hard wiring, wireless
signal, or other communication means or protocol.
[0036] As depicted in FIG. 4, in an example, the connection bin 26
can define a bin intake 40 through which the suction air flow
enters the collection bin 26 from the debris intake 28. In certain
examples, the connection bin 26 can include a bin intake valve 42
that can selectively obstruct the bin intake 40. In this
configuration, the bin intake valve 42 can close when the central
vacuum 52 is drawing the central airflow through the remote intake
port 54 to improving the vacuum within the collection bin 26 and
efficient emptying of the collection bin 26.
[0037] As illustrated in FIG. 3, in an example, the onboard vacuum
24 can be operated to generate a reverse airflow into the exterior
vent 30, across the filter 34, and into the collection bin 26. The
central vacuum 52 can be simultaneously operated to generate a
central airflow entering through the remote intake port 54 and out
an exterior vent 56. In this configuration, debris captured in the
filter 34 can be freed and drawn through the remote intake port 54
to empty the collection bin 26 and clear the filter 34. In certain
examples, the onboard vacuum 24 and the central vacuum 52 can be
simultaneously operated to create a reverse airflow. In this
configuration, the reverse airflow can clear debris from the debris
intake 24, the collection bin 26, the filter 34, and other internal
portions of the autonomous vacuum system 20.
[0038] As depicted in FIG. 4, in an example, the collection bin 26
includes at least one jet opening 46 permitting one-way airflow
into the collection bin 26 through the underside of the collection
bin 26. In this configuration, operating the onboard vacuum 24 to
generate the suction airflow and/or the central vacuum 52 to draw
the central airflow through the remote intake port 54 draws a jet
airflow through the jet openings 46. The jet airflow can prevent
settling debris or break up the settled debris within the
collection bin 26 to facilitate entrainment of the debris into the
central airflow. In certain examples, the bin intake valve 42 can
be closed to prevent air from entering air through the bin intake
40 to facilitate the drawing of the jet airflow through the jet
openings 46.
[0039] As depicted in FIGS. 5-8, in an example, the collection bin
26 can include at least one internal wall 48 dividing the
collection bin 26 into a plurality of subsections. The internal
walls 48 can divide debris entering the collection bin 26 through
the bin intake 40 among the subsections to prevent or limit
clumping of debris within the collection bin 26. The internal walls
48 can be oriented toward output connector 36 such that debris
within the collection bin 26 are funneled toward the output
connector 36 as the central airflow is drawn through the remote
intake port 54. The internal walls 48 can be straight as
illustrated in FIG. 6 or curved as illustrated in FIG. 8. In an
example, the collection bin 26 can be curved or otherwise shaped to
minimize or eliminate acute angle corners, ribs, protrusions, or
other structures that can collect or trap debris within the
collection bin 26 when the central airflow is drawn. In an example,
the collection bin 26 can include a shaker element to agitate the
collection bin 26 to loosen debris within the collection bin
26.
[0040] As depicted in FIG. 9, in an example, the central vacuum
system 50 can include a dock 60 at the remote intake port 54. The
dock 60 can include a docking port 62 fluidly connected to the
remote intake port 54 and at least one alignment feature 64 for
engaging the housing 22 of the autonomous vacuum system 20. The at
least one alignment feature 64 engages the housing 22 of the
autonomous vacuum system 20 to align the output connector 36 with
the docking port 62 as the moving autonomous vacuum system 20 into
connection with the dock 60.
[0041] In an example, the dock 60 can be connected to an existing
remote intake port 54 to provide a docking port 62 compatible with
the autonomous vacuum system 20. In this configuration, the dock 60
can be plumbed in below or adjacent to an existing remote intake
port 54. The dock 60 can be connected to the remote intake port 54
by a flexible hose or other connector permitting providing the dock
60 as an accessory of the central vacuum system 50.
[0042] As depicted in FIG. 12, in an example, the autonomous vacuum
system 20 can further include an onboard power supply 59 for
powering the internal blower 24 and other internal systems of the
autonomous vacuum system 20. The autonomous vacuum system 20 can
include at least one device contact for receiving an electrical
current to charge the onboard power supply 59. In this
configuration, the dock 60 can include at least one dock contact
positioned to contact the device contact when docking the
autonomous vacuum system 20 to the dock 60. The dock contact can be
configured to provide the electrical current to the at least one
device contact for charging the onboard power supply. In certain
examples, the dock 60 can be configured to provide electrical
current to the onboard power supply 59 by induction, contact
connections, mechanical plug connections, or other conventional
means of releasably coupling the onboard power supply 59 to the
dock 60 to provide electrical current. In certain examples, the
dock 60 can be wirelessly connected or physically connected to the
autonomous vacuum system 20 when docked to provide software updates
or otherwise alter the programming of the autonomous vacuum system
20.
[0043] As depicted in FIG. 10, in an example, the dock 60 can be
positioned in a garage housing 64 defining an internal space. The
garage housing 64 can have a garage door 66 moveable between an
open position permitting access to the internal space and a closed
position obstructing access to the internal space. In an example,
the garage door 66 is positioned to define a ramp for the
autonomous vacuum system 20 when rotating the garage door 66 into
the open position. In certain examples, the garage housing 64 can
be mounted beneath a cabinet to conceal the garage housing 64
beneath the cabinet.
[0044] As depicted in FIG. 11, in an example, the collection bin 26
can include a debris door 70 that can be opened to permit emptying
debris from collection bin 26. The central vacuum system 50 can
include a floor port 72 for receiving debris emptied from the
debris door 70. In this configuration, the autonomous vacuum system
20 can be moved over the floor port 72 empty debris from the
collection bin 26 into the floor port 72. When the autonomous
vacuum system 20 is not positioned over the floor port 72, debris
can be manually swept into the floor port 72. The debris sensor can
be configured to operate the central vacuum system 50 when debris
is manually swept into the floor port 72 such that the debris is
entrained in the central airflow.
[0045] As depicted in FIG. 12, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can
include an interchangeable module 80 including the collection bin
26 and the onboard power supply 59. The interchangeable module 80
can be coupled to the autonomous vacuum system 20 such that the
interchangeable module 80 aligns the filter 34, the outtake
connector 36, and the bin intake 40 to fluidly connect the
collection bin 26 within the interchangeable module 80 to the
internal blower 24 and a connected central vacuum 52. In this
configuration, the collection system 20, the housing 22 of the
autonomous vacuum system 20 can define a module slot 82 for receive
the interchangeable module 80. In certain examples, the
interchangeable module 80 can include a filter output 84, a
secondary connector opening 86, and a secondary bin intake 88
corresponding to the filter 34, the output connector 36, and the
bin intake 40. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the secondary connector
opening 86 and the secondary bin intake 88 can include a
corresponding valve for containing debris within the collection bin
26 when the interchangeable module 80 is removed from the module
slot 82.
[0046] As illustrated in FIG. 13, in an example, the autonomous
vacuum system 20 can include at least a first interchangeable
module 80A receivable within a first module slot 82A and a second
interchangeable module 80B receivable within a second module 82B.
One or both of the first and second interchangeable modules 80A,
80B can be coupled to the autonomous vacuum system 20. In this
configuration, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can be operated with
only the first interchangeable module 80A or the second
interchangeable module 80B coupled to the autonomous vacuum system
20. This configuration permits the other of the first
interchangeable module 80A or the second interchangeable module 80B
to be removed and emptied while the autonomous vacuum system 20
continues to operate.
[0047] As illustrated in FIG. 14, in an example, the autonomous
vacuum system 20 can decouple from the dock 60 and travel about a
space along a predetermined path or randomly within the space. The
autonomous vacuum system 20 can return to the dock 60 to empty the
collection bin 26 upon expiration of a predetermined time period
corresponding to the filling of the collection bin 26. In certain
examples, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can return to the dock 60
if the at least one material collection system determines that a
sufficient volume or amount of debris collected by the autonomous
vacuum system is sufficient to fill the collection bin 26. The
autonomous vacuum system 20 can be programmed to immediately
reverse upon decoupling from the dock 60 to collect any debris that
may have been freed upon decoupling of the autonomous vacuum system
20 from the dock 60.
VARIOUS NOTES & EXAMPLES
[0048] Example 1 is an autonomous vacuum system for collecting
debris in a remote space, comprising: a collection bin fluidly
connected to a debris intake; an onboard vacuum operable to
generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the
collection bin to the onboard vacuum, the suction airflow drawing
debris through the debris intake into the collection bin; and an
output connector fluidly connected to the collection bin; wherein
the output connector is configured to be coupled to a remote intake
port fluidly connected to a central vacuum operable to generate a
central airflow to draw debris from the collection bin into the
remote intake port positioned in the remote space.
[0049] In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 optionally
includes a movement system including at least one of a wheel,
tracker, roller, gear, or combination thereof for moving the
autonomous vacuum system.
[0050] In Example 3, the subject matter of Example 2 optionally
includes wherein the movement system is operable to move the
autonomous vacuum system between a docked position in which the
output connector is coupled to the remote intake port and an
undocked position in which the output connector is decoupled to the
remote intake port.
[0051] In Example 4, the subject matter of Example 3 optionally
includes wherein the onboard vacuum is operable to generate the
suction airflow to draw debris through the debris intake into the
collection bin when the autonomous vacuum system is in the undocked
position.
[0052] In Example 5, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 3-4 optionally include wherein the onboard vacuum is
operable to generate the suction airflow while the central vacuum
is operated to generate the central airflow when in the docked
position to agitate debris within the collection bin.
[0053] In Example 6, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 2-5 optionally include wherein the mobile collection
further comprises: a controller for operating the movement system
to move the autonomous vacuum system within the remote space
according to a predetermined pattern; and a memory storage module
storing at least the predetermined pattern.
[0054] In Example 7, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 1-6 optionally include at least one barrier sensor for
determining the positioning of the autonomous vacuum system within
the remote space.
[0055] In Example 8, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 1-7 optionally include at least one roller proximate the
debris intake; wherein the at least one roller is rotatable to draw
debris into the debris intake.
[0056] In Example 9, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 1-8 optionally include wherein the onboard vacuum is
operable to generate the suction airflow in a pulsed sequence.
[0057] Example 10 is a central vacuum system for collecting debris
within a remote space, comprising: a central vacuum fluidly
connected to a remote intake port, the central vacuum being
operable to generate a central airflow into the remote intake port;
and an autonomous vacuum system comprising: a collection bin
fluidly connected to a debris intake, an onboard vacuum operable to
generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the
collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw debris through the
debris intake into the collection bin, and an output connector
fluidly connected to the collection bin; wherein the autonomous
vacuum system is movable to couple the output connector to the
remote intake port such that the central airflow draws debris from
the collection bin into the remote intake port.
[0058] In Example 11, the subject matter of Example 10 optionally
includes wherein the autonomous vacuum system further comprises: a
movement system including at least one of a wheel, tracker, roller,
gear, or combination thereof for moving the autonomous vacuum
system.
[0059] In Example 12, the subject matter of Example 11 optionally
includes wherein the movement system is operable to move the
autonomous vacuum system between a docked position in which the
output connector is coupled to the remote intake port and an
undocked position in which the output connector is decoupled to the
remote intake port.
[0060] In Example 13, the subject matter of Example 12 optionally
includes wherein the onboard vacuum is operable to generate the
suction airflow to draw debris through the debris intake into the
collection bin when the autonomous vacuum system is in the undocked
position.
[0061] In Example 14, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 12-13 optionally include wherein the onboard vacuum is
operated to generate the suction airflow while the central vacuum
is operated to generate the central airflow when in the docked
position to agitate debris within the collection bin.
[0062] In Example 15, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 10-14 optionally include wherein the remote intake port is
at a predetermined height in a wall defining the remote space.
[0063] In Example 16, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 10-15 optionally include wherein the onboard vacuum is
operable to generate the suction airflow in a pulsed sequence.
[0064] In Example 17, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 10-16 optionally include a dock for receiving the
autonomous vacuum system, the dock comprising: a docking port
fluidly connected to the remote intake port; and at least one
alignment feature; wherein the at least one alignment feature is
configured to engage the autonomous vacuum system to align the
output connector with the docking port.
[0065] Example 18 is a method for collecting debris in a remote
space, comprising: providing an autonomous vacuum system comprising
a collection bin, a debris intake, and an onboard vacuum; operating
the onboard vacuum to generate a suction airflow from the debris
intake into the collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw debris
through the debris intake into the collection bin; coupling an
output connector to a remote intake port, wherein the output
connector is fluidly connected to the collection bin; and operating
a central vacuum fluidly connected to the remote intake port to
generate the central airflow drawing debris from the collection bin
into the remote intake port.
[0066] In Example 19, the subject matter of Example 18 optionally
includes moving the autonomous vacuum system into a docked position
in which the output connector is coupled to the remote intake port;
and moving the undocked position in which the output connector is
decoupled to the remote intake port.
[0067] In Example 20, the subject matter of Example 19 optionally
includes wherein the onboard vacuum is operated to generate the
suction airflow to draw debris through the debris intake into the
collection bin when the autonomous vacuum system is in the undocked
position.
[0068] In Example 21, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 19-20 optionally include wherein the onboard vacuum is
operated to generate the suction airflow and the central vacuum
operated to generate the central airflow when in the docked
position to agitate debris within the collection bin and facilitate
moving debris into the remote intake port.
[0069] In Example 22, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 18-21 optionally include operating the onboard vacuum to
pulse the suction airflow.
[0070] In Example 23, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 18-22 optionally include moving the autonomous vacuum
system along a predetermined path; wherein the autonomous vacuum
system is positioned to coupled the output connector to the remote
intake port at one position on the predetermined path.
[0071] Example 24 is an autonomous vacuum system for collecting
debris in a remote space, comprising: a collection bin fluidly
connected to a debris intake; an onboard vacuum operable to
generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the
collection bin to the onboard vacuum, the suction airflow drawing
debris through the debris intake into the collection bin; and a
filter positioned between the collection bin and the onboard vacuum
source; wherein the filter captures debris entrained in the suction
airflow to retain the debris in the collection bin.
[0072] In Example 25, the subject matter of Example 24 optionally
includes wherein the onboard vacuum is operable to generate a
reverse airflow across the filter toward the collection bin to free
debris trapped in the filter.
[0073] In Example 26, the subject matter of Example 25 optionally
includes an output connector fluidly connected to the collection
bin; wherein the output connector is configured to be coupled to a
remote intake port fluidly connected to a central vacuum operable
to generate a central airflow to draw debris from the collection
bin into the remote intake port positioned in the remote space.
[0074] In Example 27, the subject matter of Example 26 optionally
includes wherein the central vacuum is operated to generate the
central airflow to draw debris from the collection bin into the
remote intake port when the onboard vacuum is operated to generate
the reverse airflow.
[0075] In Example 28, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 25-27 optionally include wherein the onboard vacuum is
operable to generate the reverse airflow in a pulsed sequence.
[0076] Example 29 is a method for collecting debris in a remote
space, comprising: providing an autonomous vacuum system comprising
a collection bin, a debris intake, and an onboard vacuum; and
operating the onboard vacuum to generate a suction airflow from the
debris intake into the collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw
debris through the debris intake into the collection bin; wherein a
filter is positioned between the collection bin and the onboard
vacuum source to capture debris entrained in the suction airflow to
retain the debris in the collection bin.
[0077] In Example 30, the subject matter of Example 29 optionally
includes operating the onboard vacuum to generate a reverse airflow
across the filter toward the collection bin to free debris trapped
in the filter.
[0078] In Example 31, the subject matter of Example 30 optionally
includes coupling an output connector to a remote intake port,
wherein the output connector is fluidly connected to the collection
bin; and operating a central vacuum fluidly connected to the remote
intake port to generate the central airflow drawing debris from the
collection bin into the remote intake port.
[0079] In Example 32, the subject matter of Example 31 optionally
includes operating the central vacuum to generate the central
airflow drawing debris from the collection bin into the remote
intake port when the onboard vacuum is operated to generate the
reverse airflow.
[0080] In Example 33, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 29-32 optionally include operating the onboard vacuum to
pulse the reverse airflow.
[0081] Example 34 is a central vacuum system for collecting debris
within a remote space, comprising: a central vacuum fluidly
connected to a remote intake port, the central vacuum being
operable to generate a central airflow into the remote intake port;
and an autonomous vacuum system comprising: a collection bin
fluidly connected to a debris intake, an onboard vacuum operable to
generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the
collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw debris through the
debris intake into the collection bin, and an output connector
fluidly connected to the collection bin; a dock including a docking
port fluidly connected to the remote intake port; wherein the
autonomous vacuum system is movable to couple the output connector
to the docking port such that the central airflow draws debris from
the collection bin into the docking port and the remote intake
port.
[0082] In Example 35, the subject matter of Example 34 optionally
includes wherein the dock further comprises: at least one alignment
feature configured to engage the autonomous vacuum system to align
the output connector with the docking port.
[0083] In Example 36, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 34-35 optionally include that the docking port further
comprises a gasket for sealing engagement of the output connector
to the docking port.
[0084] In Example 37, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 34-36 optionally include wherein the dock further
comprises: a garage housing defining an internal space for
receiving the autonomous vacuum system; and a garage door moveable
between an open position permitting access to the internal space
and a closed position obstructing access to the internal space.
[0085] In Example 38, the subject matter of Example 37 optionally
includes wherein the garage door is positioned to define a ramp for
the autonomous vacuum system.
[0086] In Example 39, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 37-38 optionally include wherein the garage is mounted
beneath a cabinet.
[0087] In Example 40, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 34-39 optionally include wherein the autonomous vacuum
system further comprises: an onboard power supply for powering the
autonomous vacuum system; and at least one device contact for
receiving an electrical current to charge the onboard power
supply.
[0088] In Example 41, the subject matter of Example 40 optionally
includes wherein the dock further comprises: at least one dock
contact corresponding to the at least one device contact; wherein
the at least one dock contact is positioned to contact the at least
one device contact to provide the electrical current to the at
least one device contact to charge the onboard power supply.
[0089] In Example 42, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 34-41 optionally include wherein the remote intake port is
at a predetermined height in a wall defining the remote space.
[0090] In Example 43, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 34-42 optionally include that the docking port further
comprises: a selective valve moveable between a closed position
obstructing airflow through the remote intake port and an open
position permitting airflow through the remote intake port; wherein
the selective valve is biased to the closed position, wherein
engagement of the output connector to the docking port moves the
selective valve to the open position.
[0091] Example 44 is an autonomous vacuum system for collecting
debris in a remote space, comprising: a collection bin fluidly
connected to a debris intake, the collection bin further comprises
a plurality of interior walls dividing the collection bin into a
plurality of interior spaces; and an onboard vacuum operable to
generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the
collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw debris through the
debris intake into the collection bin; wherein debris drawn into
the collection bin is separated by the interior walls into one of
the plurality of the interior spaces.
[0092] In Example 45, the subject matter of Example 44 optionally
includes an output connector fluidly connected to the collection
bin; wherein the output connector is configured to be coupled to a
remote intake port fluidly connected to a central vacuum operable
to generate a central airflow to draw debris from the collection
bin into the remote intake port positioned in the remote space.
[0093] In Example 46, the subject matter of Example 45 optionally
includes wherein the interior walls are oriented toward the output
connector to funnel debris toward the output connector.
[0094] In Example 47, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 45-46 optionally include wherein the internal walls are
curved toward the output connector to funnel debris toward the
output connector.
[0095] In Example 48, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 44-47 optionally include wherein the collection bin
defines at least one jet opening; wherein operating the onboard
vacuum to generate the suction airflow creates a jet airflow into
the collection bin to agitate debris collected within the
collection bin.
[0096] Example 49 is an autonomous vacuum system for collecting
debris in a remote space, comprising: at least one collection
assembly including an onboard power supply and a collection bin;
and an onboard vacuum operable to generate a suction airflow;
wherein the at least one collection assembly is configured to be
releasably coupled to the onboard vacuum such that the suction
airflow is drawn from the debris intake into the collection bin to
the onboard vacuum to draw debris through the debris intake into
the collection bin.
[0097] In Example 50, the subject matter of Example 49 optionally
includes a collection slot for receiving the collection assembly
and coupling the collection assembly to the onboard vacuum.
[0098] In Example 51, the subject matter of Example 50 optionally
includes wherein the collection slot is sized to receive at least a
first collection assembly and a second collection assembly.
[0099] In Example 52, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 49-51 optionally include that the autonomous vacuum system
further includes: a first collection slot for receiving a first
collection assembly; and a second collection slot for receiving a
second collection assembly; wherein the onboard vacuum is operable
to draw debris into at least one of the first collection assembly
and the second collection assembly.
[0100] In Example 53, the subject matter of any one or more of
Examples 49-52 optionally include wherein the autonomous vacuum
system defines a first collection slot for receiving a first
interchangeable module and defines a second collection slot for
receiving a second power-supply collection bin assembly.
[0101] Each of these non-limiting examples can stand on its own, or
can be combined in any permutation or combination with any one or
more of the other examples.
[0102] The above-detailed description includes references to the
accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed
description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific
embodiments in which the present subject matter can be practiced.
These embodiments are also referred to herein as "examples." Such
examples can include elements in addition to those shown or
described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples
in which only those elements were shown or described are provided.
Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any
combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or
one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular
example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other
examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described
herein.
[0103] In the event of inconsistent usages between this document
and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this
document controls.
[0104] In this document, the terms "a" or "an" are used, as is
common in patent documents, to include one or more than one,
independent of any other instances or usages of "at least one" or
"one or more." In this document, the term "or" is used to refer to
a nonexclusive or, such that "A or B" includes "A but not B," "B
but not A," and "A and B," unless otherwise indicated. In this
document, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the
plain-English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and
"wherein." Also, in the following claims, the terms "including" and
"comprising" are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article,
composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in
addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still
deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the
following claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc.
are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical
requirements on their objects.
[0105] Method examples described herein can be machine or
computer-implemented at least in part. Some examples can include a
computer-readable medium or machine-readable medium encoded with
instructions operable to configure an electronic device to perform
methods as described in the above examples. An implementation of
such methods can include code, such as microcode, assembly language
code, a higher-level language code, or the like. Such code can
include computer readable instructions for performing various
methods. The code may form portions of computer program products.
Further, in an example, the code can be tangibly stored on one or
more volatile, non-transitory, or non-volatile tangible
computer-readable media, such as during execution or at other
times. Examples of these tangible computer-readable media can
include, but are not limited to, hard disks, removable magnetic
disks, removable optical disks (e.g., compact disks and digital
video disks), magnetic cassettes, memory cards or sticks, random
access memories (RAMs), read only memories (ROMs), and the
like.
[0106] The above description is intended to be illustrative, and
not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one
or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each
other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary
skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract
is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. .sctn. 1.72(b), to allow the
reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure.
It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to
interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the
above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped
together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be
interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is
essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in
less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus,
the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed
Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on
its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such
embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations
or permutations. The scope of the present subject matter should be
determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the
full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
* * * * *