Window Cleaners Patents (Class 15/103)
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Patent number: 11880073Abstract: An optical connector cleaning tool includes a cleaning portion (101), a container (102) configured to store a cleaning liquid (121), and an atomizer (103) configured to atomize the cleaning liquid (121) stored in the container (102) by ultrasonic atomization. The atomizer (103) includes an atomizing separation portion (105) configured to cover a liquid supply port (104) and pass not a liquid but mist. In addition, the cleaning tool includes a control circuit (107) configured to control an operation time of the atomizer (103) by a set time.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2019Date of Patent: January 23, 2024Assignee: NTT ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Shuichiro Asakawa, Kenta Arai, Etsu Hashimoto
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Patent number: 11541430Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a method for cleaning a wind turbine blade or a solar panel with a wind cinch device. The method includes applying a cleaning solution to a surface of a wind turbine blade or solar panel; affixing a wind cinch device around a high point of the wind turbine blade or solar panel; applying tension to one or more lines attached to the wind cinch device to control the pressure the wind cinch device applies to the surface of the wind turbine blade or solar panel; and applying tension to the one or more lines attached to the wind cinch device to pull the wind cinch device from the high point on the wind turbine blade or solar panel to a low point on the wind turbine blade or solar panel. Other embodiments of the present invention are directed to a Wind Cinch device.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2021Date of Patent: January 3, 2023Inventor: William F. Crunk
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Patent number: 11517170Abstract: A system for a self-cleaning squeegee that is integrated with a semi-autonomous cleaning device includes a frame coupled to the cleaning device. A squeegee is coupled to the frame and oriented such that an edge of the squeegee is in close proximity to a surface, e.g., a floor, for cleaning. A manifold configured to receive a cleaning fluid is coupled to the frame and oriented such that the cleaning fluid can be dispersed onto at least a portion of the squeegee. A connecting member is used to couple the manifold to an external fluid distribution system that provides the cleaning fluid. The self-cleaning squeegee system can thus disperse pressurized cleaning fluid, e.g., water or a mixture of water and soap, via the manifold to clean the surface of a squeegee. In this manner, the self-cleaning squeegee system can clean squeegees on the cleaning device without the need for human intervention.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2019Date of Patent: December 6, 2022Assignee: Avidbots CorpInventors: Pablo Roberto Molina Cabrera, Ian Gardiner
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Patent number: 11350805Abstract: Proposed is to a window cleaning tool including an internal unit or including an internal unit and an external unit. The window cleaning tool is configured to prevent an external unit from separating and falling, and to realize smooth movement of a cleaner during washing because when an internal unit moves up, the front end of an internal unit blade rotates away from an inner surface of glass and the front end of an external unit blade rotates away from an outer surface of the glass, and when the internal unit moves down, the front ends of the internal unit blade and the external unit blade rotate toward the surfaces of the glass to be pressed.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2020Date of Patent: June 7, 2022Inventors: Jong Myong Kim, Yoon Tae Kim
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Patent number: 11112800Abstract: An obstacle avoidance walking method of a self-moving robot includes storing a coordinate of a first obstacle point and a coordinate of a second obstacle point. The coordinate of the first obstacle point and the coordinate of the second obstacle point are formed by detecting an obstacle by the self-moving robot when walking along a first direction. The method further includes performing a preset shuttle walking according to the coordinate of the first obstacle point and the coordinate of the second obstacle point. The method accurately determines obstacle position and provides a concise walking path, and greatly improves the working efficiency of the self-moving robot.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2019Date of Patent: September 7, 2021Assignee: ECOVACS ROBOTICS CO., LTD.Inventor: Jinju Tang
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Patent number: 10684624Abstract: A self-navigating cleaning device with obstacle-removing capabilities includes a detecting unit to detect the environment, and a driving unit to receive the driving signal from a navigation control unit and drive the cleaning device to move according to the driving signal. A floor cleaning unit cleans the floor automatically during movement of the cleaning device.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2016Date of Patent: June 16, 2020Assignee: Cloud Network Technology Singapore Pte. Ltd.Inventors: Po-Cheng Chen, Yu-Wen Chen, Kuang-Yu Liu, Ling-Chieh Tai, Wei-Chun Chen
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Patent number: 10624516Abstract: The present invention relates to a device that is in particular detachable, connectable, or connected with a cleaning device, wherein the device comprises at least one sensor means in order to record the position of at least one cleaning area of a cleaning device, which area can be or is used for cleaning, at least one display device, and at least one data processing unit which interacts or can be made to interact functionally with the display device, and with the at least one sensor means, wherein the data processing device is configured and adapted to display at least one representation of at least one surface to be cleaned in at least one first color or without color and, based on a recorded change in the position of at least the cleaning area of the cleaning device, to display the surface to be cleaned in at least one second color or without superimposition of color.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2015Date of Patent: April 21, 2020Inventor: Martin Cudzilo
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Patent number: 10590667Abstract: An automatic wall adhesion and cleaning system includes a cleaning mechanism for cleaning the outer wall of a building, and a vacuum-based wall adhesion mechanism adherable to the outer wall of the building by a vacuum suction force and adapted for carrying and moving the cleaning mechanism on the outer wall of the building. Thus, the automatic wall adhesion and cleaning system can save labor cost and eliminate the risk of human life due to rupture of the ropes of a hanging cage.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2018Date of Patent: March 17, 2020Inventor: Yi-Wen Lin
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Patent number: 10550591Abstract: A building cleaning system for cleaning a side of a building can include an elongate brush structure that is rotated by an electric motor, a frame for supporting the brush structure that can be oriented to face toward the side of the building, and a plurality of air moving devices mounted to the frame for generating counterforce to force the frame toward the building. The air moving devices can including fans or blowers. The air moving devices can be being spaced apart from one another in an orientation that extends along the length of the frame. A lift arrangement can be provided for moving the frame along the side of the building.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2016Date of Patent: February 4, 2020Assignee: Pachanga Holdings, LLCInventors: Michael R. Lange, Dallas W. Simonette
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Patent number: 10530295Abstract: Cleaning system (100) including a brush assembly (102) for cleaning solar panels (106). The brush assembly has at least one rotatable brush (403) having a rotational axis. The rotatable brush includes a plurality of sets of bristles (2004), each extending outwardly from a core (2008). A shaft (2005) extends through the core of the brush. The shaft is a telescoping shaft, which is configured to retract and expand to create an elongated brush assembly. An apparatus, system, and method for conveying an assembly along a track. A rail (401) includes a first planar side, a second planar side, and a third planar side. The first, second, and third planar sides are arranged to form at least two acute angles ranging between 50 degrees and 80 degrees. A carriage assembly (300) includes a drive wheel (301) and at least two rollers (302). The drive wheel is configured to contact the second planar side and is configured to translate the assembly along the rail.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2015Date of Patent: January 7, 2020Assignee: KING ABDULLAH UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGYInventor: Georg Eitelhuber
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Patent number: 10423160Abstract: A local obstacle avoidance walking method of a self-moving robot, comprising: step 100: the self-moving robot walks in a first direction, and when an obstacle is detected, the self-moving robot translates for a displacement M1 in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and step 200: determining whether the self-moving robot is able to continue to walk in the first direction after the translation, if a result of the determination is positive, the self-moving robot continues to walk in the first direction, and if the result of the determination is negative, the self-moving robot acts according to a preset instruction. The method enables the robot to accurately avoid a local obstacle, provides a concise walking route, shortens the determination time, and improves the working efficiency of the self-moving robot.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2015Date of Patent: September 24, 2019Assignee: Ecovacs Robotics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jinju Tang
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Patent number: 10293381Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method for conveying an assembly along a track. A rail can include a first planar side, a second planar side, and a third planar side. The first, second, and third planar sides can be arranged to form at least two acute angles. A carriage assembly can include a drive wheel and at least two roller sets. The drive wheel can be configured to contact the first planar side and is configured to translate the carriage assembly along the rail. The at least two roller sets can be configured to contact the two other sides to maintain the carriage in contact with the rail.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2014Date of Patent: May 21, 2019Assignee: KING ABDULLAH UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGYInventor: Georg Eitelhuber
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Patent number: 10278554Abstract: The automatic squeegee assembly includes an energy storage charger, a main body configured as a housing, and a squeegee arm assembly coupled to the main body. The main body includes a base configured to rest upon a substantially horizontal surface, an energy storage, an energy storage charger port electrically coupled to the energy storage, and configured to electrically couple to the energy storage charger, a fluid container removably coupled to the main body, the fluid container configured for refillably containing a cleaning fluid, a cleaning fluid pump fluidly coupled to the fluid container and configured to dispense the cleaning fluid, a handle including a user interface configured to operate the cleaning fluid pump, and an access port configured secure and to allow removal of the fluid container.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2017Date of Patent: May 7, 2019Inventor: M Solomon Bey
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Patent number: 10172504Abstract: A glass-wiping device comprises a machine body (1) and a control unit. The machine body (1) is provided with an edge detection unit (100), the edge detection unit (100) comprises a sensor switch (101, 101?) and an action element (102). The action element (102) is provided at a lower end thereof with a contact leg (1021, 1021?) that presses against the surface of a glass (200). When the contact leg (1021, 1021?) leaves the surface of the glass (200), the action element (102) correspondingly generates a displacement and triggers the sensor switch (101, 101?); the sensor switch (101, 101?) transmits a switch signal to the control unit; the control unit controls, on the basis of the switch signal, the glass-wiping device to cease running or to change the running direction. The glass-wiping device has a simple structure, reduced costs, high sensitivity and great controllability, and effectively implements the detection of the edge of a plate glass.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2013Date of Patent: January 8, 2019Assignee: ECOVACS ROBOTICS CO., LTD.Inventor: Xiaoming Lv
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Patent number: 10165911Abstract: An electric window cleaning device includes an operating portion and a wiping portion which are attracted to both sides of a glass of a window by magnets, and are free to move along the glass by virtue of balls. The wiping portion includes a power mechanism and a power supply device. The power mechanism includes an output shaft, a rotary disc and a duster removably fixed to the rotary disc. The power device includes a switch and a battery which are electrically connected to the power mechanism. When the power mechanism is turned on, the output shaft rotates the rotary disc and the duster to clean the outer surface of the glass, as an user moves the operating portion which is attracted to the inner surface of the glass, the wiping portion will also move along the outer surface of the glass to perform cleaning operation.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2017Date of Patent: January 1, 2019Inventor: Wen Chou Chen
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Patent number: 10106997Abstract: This disclosure relates to systems, methods and apparatuses for removing precipitation from an exterior of a building in an expedited and automated fashion. The precipitation removal system includes one or more sweeper assemblies and one or more hoisting assemblies. The sweeper assemblies are suspended from the roof, ledge or other portion of a building. The hoisting assemblies assist the sweeper assemblies with vertically traversing the exterior of the building. As a sweeper assembly vertically traverses the side of the building, precipitation that accumulates on the exterior of the building is removed. The sweeper assemblies can remove precipitation from connecting structures on the exterior of the building which are used by building maintenance personnel to perform maintenance operations on the exterior of the building.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2017Date of Patent: October 23, 2018Assignee: EXTELL DEVELOPMENT COMPANYInventors: Joaquin F. Stearns, Gary Barnett, Joseph Montano, Shawn Kirk
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Patent number: 10029653Abstract: A cleaning device for a vehicle has tracks above and below the vehicle's windshield. A brush, wiper blade and spray bar extend across the windshield at a starting side of the windshield. The spray bar provides washer fluid as the brush rotates against the windshield. The spray bar, rotating brush and wiper bar are moved along the tracks and across the windshield to an opposing, return side of the windshield where the wiper blade first contacts the windshield and the brush stops rotating and moves away from the windshield. The spray bar rotates next to the wiper blade to blow air against the windshield. The wiper blade scrapes water while air blows water off the windshield as they move back to the starting side of the windshield where they are stored in a frame along the side of the windshield when not in use.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2018Date of Patent: July 24, 2018Inventor: Nicholas J. Singer
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Patent number: 9839336Abstract: The present invention relates to vacuum cleaners with steam functionality (steam and vacuum cleaners), preferably to canister steam and vacuum cleaners, comprising a suction hose and a steam hose for respectively suctioning dirt and conveying steam, wherein the steam hose is external to the suction hose and comprises, at each end, a detachable connector, preferably a rapid-fitting detachable connector, for optionally detaching the steam hose when using only the vacuum cleaning functionality.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2014Date of Patent: December 12, 2017Assignee: POLTI SPAInventors: Francesca Polti, Stefano Cappi, Riccardo Turati
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Patent number: 9689170Abstract: A cleaning apparatus and method for cleaning generally upright surfaces, walls and windows of a building has a frame rotatably supporting one or more brushes adapted to engage the upright surface of a building. A davit supported on top of the building is connected to a cable pendently supporting the frame and brushes. A winch driven with a motor mounted on the frame operably connected to the cable operates to move the frame and brushes relative to the upright surface. A counterforce generator mounted on the frame establishes a force on the frame and brushes that maintains the brushes in effective continuous engagement with the upright surface during cleaning thereof.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2013Date of Patent: June 27, 2017Assignee: Pachanga Holdings, LLCInventors: Michael R. Lange, Dallas W. Simonette
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Patent number: 9681784Abstract: An automated washing system for vertical surfaces of buildings comprises a frame assembly including a substantially planar base portion and a mast portion extending upwardly from the base portion. A pair of rolling wheels are disposed on the opposing sides of the base portion adjacent the rear end thereof. A main brush is rotatably disposed on the frame and partially enclosed by a shroud. An electric drive motor drives the main brush and is powered by an onboard battery. Bumper wheels disposed on the shroud extend laterally outwardly beyond from the opposing circular ends of the main brush. The angle between the mast and the base is configured to hold the main brush against the vertical surface of the building when the mast is lifted vertically by a cable attached to the mast.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2013Date of Patent: June 20, 2017Assignee: Pachanga Holdings, LLCInventors: Michael R. Lange, Jim Berres, James G. Pritschet
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Patent number: 9655484Abstract: Autonomous planar surface cleaning robots are disclosed. The robot includes a main body having a bottom portion defining an outer portion defining a surface area about a perimeter thereof and an inner portion defining a cavity formed within the outer portion. The main body supports a driving mechanism, a vacuum source, a vacuum sensor, and a control unit. The vacuum source, cavity, and vacuum sensor are in fluid communication. The control unit is electrically coupled to the driving mechanism, the vacuum source, and the vacuum sensor, and is configured to control the robot to turn direction when the control unit receives a signal from the vacuum sensor indicating that a degree of vacuum pressure within the cavity is below a predetermined vacuum pressure. Also disclosed is robot that includes multiple vacuum sources. Also disclosed is an apparatus that includes a connector pole.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2015Date of Patent: May 23, 2017Assignee: ECOVACS ROBOTICS, INC.Inventor: Dongqi Qian
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Patent number: 9487962Abstract: The present invention relates to an automatic cleaning apparatus (1) for cleaning facades on multi-story buildings. The apparatus comprises a rotating brush (11) arranged rotatable about its longitudinal axis, a drive mechanism (16) for rotating the brush, a container (18) for housing a cleaning fluid, and a fluid feeding device adapted to feed the rotating brush with cleaning fluid from the container by means of capillarity forces. The apparatus is designed to engage to steering guides (4) provided on the facade. The apparatus is designed so that a downward movement of the apparatus is solely powered by gravity forces acting on the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2011Date of Patent: November 8, 2016Assignee: Brunkeberg Systems ABInventor: Jon Henrik Falk
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Patent number: 9481017Abstract: Described herein is a cleaning device for a flat solar panel or a trough reflector panel. The device comprises a cleaning member with a sweeper portion and a scraper portion. The cleaning member is mounted for unidirectional and bidirectional movement over the flat panel or the reflector panel. A rocker bar is connected to the sweeper portion and the scraper portion to rockingly move either the sweeper portion or the scraper portion into contact with the flat panel or the reflector panel as the cleaning member moves over the flat panel or the reflector panel.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2012Date of Patent: November 1, 2016Inventors: Jeffrey Scott Adler, Harold Russell Baird
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Patent number: 9439545Abstract: A window cleaning apparatus comprises: a first cleaning unit, which is positioned on one side of a window, having at least one built-in first magnetic module comprising a magnet; and a second cleaning unit, which is positioned on the opposite side of the window on which the first cleaning unit is positioned, having at least one built-in second magnetic module, which comprises a magnet having an opposite polarity to the magnetic module of the first cleaning unit so as to generate magnetic attraction with the first magnetic module. The second cleaning unit comprises an induction electricity generating module for generating electricity by inducing the change in the magnetic field emanating from the first magnetic module and/or the second magnetic module into voltage by means of electromagnetic induction.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2012Date of Patent: September 13, 2016Assignee: INDUSTRY-ACADEMIC COOPERATION FOUNDATION, YONSEI UNIVERSITYInventors: Yoon Su Baek, Jong Hyun Choi
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Patent number: 9443992Abstract: Described herein is an autonomous cleaning device for a solar panel. The device includes a cleaning member mounted for unidirectional movement or bidirectional movement over the solar panel. The cleaning member has a first cleaning portion for cleaning the solar panel as the cleaning member moves in one direction and a second cleaning portion for cleaning the solar panel as the cleaning member moves in the other direction. The cleaning portions are respectively brought into contact with the solar panel by axial rotation of the cleaning member about a restricted path of travel.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2012Date of Patent: September 13, 2016Inventors: Jeffrey Scott Adler, Harold Russell Baird
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Patent number: 9427121Abstract: A glass-wiping robot having an air-venting device (5), comprising a machine body (1). The machine body (1) has arranged thereon a suction cup device (2). The suction cup device (2) is connected to a vacuum air pump (4) via an airway pipe (3). The glass-wiping robot is adsorbed on a surface of a glass via the suction cup device (2). The suction cup device (2) is also connected to an air-venting device (5). The air-venting device (5) is provided with opened and closed positions. When the air-venting device (5) is at the opened position, the suction cup device (2) is in communication with the atmosphere via the air-venting device (5).Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2013Date of Patent: August 30, 2016Assignee: ECOVACS ROBOTICS CO., LTD.Inventor: Xiaoming Lv
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Patent number: 9386893Abstract: A glass-wiping robot having an air-venting device (5), comprising a machine body (1). The machine body (1) has arranged thereon a suction cup device (2). The suction cup device (2) is connected to a vacuum air pump (4) via an airway pipe (3). The glass-wiping robot is adsorbed on a surface of a glass via the suction cup device (2). The suction cup device (2) is also connected to an air-venting device (5). The air-venting device (5) is provided with opened and closed positions. When the air-venting device (5) is at the opened position, the suction cup device (2) is in communication with the atmosphere via the air-venting device (5).Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2013Date of Patent: July 12, 2016Assignee: ECOVACS ROBOTICS CO., LTD.Inventor: Xiaoming Lv
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Patent number: 9340184Abstract: A motorized car wash device having a hand held washer with a telescopic handle for reaching up to ten feet, as well as a sealed control tube featuring a plurality of control buttons. The tube is connected to a head by a double ear axle joint. The head includes a soap reservoir. A soap pump and soap jets are disposed on a bottom side of the head. Variable speed choices are available for multi-speed motorized direct drive of a receiver selectively holding a plurality of spinning brushes and pads. Pivoting lights provide use of the device in low light conditions. Each of the pump, the jets, the multi-speed motor and the lights in operational communication with the control buttons and batteries.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2014Date of Patent: May 17, 2016Inventors: Patrick Morris, Chovanne Williams
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Patent number: 9326655Abstract: A cleaning device includes a refillable handle, a scrubbing member, a plurality of bristles, and a squeegee. The refillable handle includes first and second end portions and a hollow interior configured to hold a cleaning fluid. The scrubbing member is positioned at the first end portion of the handle and arranged in flow communication with the hollow interior. The plurality of bristles are mounted to the handle. The squeegee is mounted to the second end portion of the handle.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2014Date of Patent: May 3, 2016Inventor: Karla Call
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Patent number: 9276523Abstract: Embodiments disclose automated systems and methods for washing solar panels. The solar panels may be arranged in rows with varying lengths. A washing device unit may be configured to clean a first row, and a second washing may be configured to clean a second row, wherein the first row may include more solar panels than the first row. The first washing device may be configured to receive cleaning fluid from a fluid source and supply the cleaning fluid to the second washing device in areas that the second row is adjacent to the first row.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2015Date of Patent: March 1, 2016Inventor: Cory Berendez
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Patent number: 9215956Abstract: Provided are a window cleaning apparatus and a method of controlling the same. The window cleaning apparatus including first and second cleaning units which are respectively attached on both surfaces of a window using a magnetic force to move together with each other includes a first magnetic module provided in the first cleaning unit, a second magnetic module provided in the second cleaning unit, a magnetic force detection part for detecting a magnetic force between the first and second magnetic modules, and a magnetic force control part for controlling the magnetic force between the first and second magnetic modules.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2010Date of Patent: December 22, 2015Assignees: INTELLECTUAL DISCOVERY CO., LTD., KOREA INSTITUTE OF ROBOT & CONVERGENCEInventor: Man Hyun Ryu
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Patent number: 9173539Abstract: Disclosed are a robot cleaner and a method for controlling the same, capable of controlling a travelling or cleaning pattern of a robot cleaner in accordance with extension and retraction operations of an auxiliary cleaning tool to perform an efficient cleaning operation. The robot cleaner includes a plurality of auxiliary cleaning units mounted to a bottom of the robot cleaner such that the auxiliary cleaning units are extendable and retractable, an obstacle sensor to sense an obstacle in a cleaning region of the robot cleaner, and a control unit to extend the auxiliary cleaning units while travelling in a wall tracing manner along the periphery of the cleaning region, and to retract the auxiliary cleaning units while the robot cleaner travels in an inner portion of the cleaning region when traveling of the periphery of the cleaning region is finished.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2012Date of Patent: November 3, 2015Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Sang Sik Yoon, Woo Ram Chung, Kyu Sun Han, Jun Pyo Hong, Jun Hwa Lee
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Patent number: 9119510Abstract: The present invention provides a glass-wiping device comprising a glass-wiping device body (1) and a signal-receiving device (30) arranged thereon. The signal-receiving device (30) receives a control signal transmitted by a remote control and the control signal controls the glass-wiping device body (1) into action. The control signal received by the signal-receiving device (30) comes from either the obverse side or reverse side of the glass-wiping device body (1), where the side of the glass-wiping device body (1) that is away from the surface of a glass (100) is the obverse side, and where the side in proximity to the surface of the glass (100) is the reverse side. Because of simplified structure, reduced costs and great controllability, the problem of the machine itself acting as an obstacle that blocks the signal is solved.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2013Date of Patent: September 1, 2015Assignee: ECOVACS Robotics, Co., Ltd.Inventor: Xiaoming Lv
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Patent number: 9113767Abstract: A window cleaning tool provides both a scrubbing pad and squeegees. Multiple squeegee blades are mounted to a squeegee roller. A wiper bar is disposed adjacent the squeegee roller to clean the squeegee blades. A trigger is mounted adjacent a handle and connected to the squeegee roller such that movement of the trigger rotates the squeegee roller and simultaneously cleans dirty squeegee blades while presenting a clean squeegee blade for use.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2014Date of Patent: August 25, 2015Inventor: Tyler Hensel
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Patent number: 9084519Abstract: A cleaner includes at least one cleaning component, a pump module, a driving module and a control system. The at least one cleaning component and the plate delimit at least one space. The pump module is connected to the at least one space to pump air out of the at least a space to form a negative air pressure in the at least one space so that the cleaner is sucked on the plate. The driving module is connected to the at least a cleaning component to drive the at least a cleaning component. The control system is coupled to the pump module and the driving module and controls the driving module to cause the at least one driven cleaning component to make a movement on the plate.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2012Date of Patent: July 21, 2015Inventor: Chi-Mou Chao
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Publication number: 20150059109Abstract: The present invention provides a glass-wiping device comprising a glass-wiping device body (1) and a signal-receiving device (30) arranged thereon. The signal-receiving device (30) receives a control signal transmitted by a remote control and the control signal controls the glass-wiping device body (1) into action. The control signal received by the signal-receiving device (30) comes from either the obverse side or reverse side of the glass-wiping device body (1), where the side of the glass-wiping device body (1) that is away from the surface of a glass (100) is the obverse side, and where the side in proximity to the surface of the glass (100) is the reverse side. Because of simplified structure, reduced costs and great controllability, the problem of the machine itself acting as an obstacle that blocks the signal is solved.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2013Publication date: March 5, 2015Inventor: Xiaoming Lv
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Patent number: 8826482Abstract: Provided are a window cleaning apparatus including first and second cleaning units which are respectively attached on both surfaces of a window using a magnetic force to move together with each other, and a method for controlling a movement of the window cleaning apparatus. The window cleaning apparatus includes a direction detecting sensor, a control part, a collision sensing part, and an offset setting part. The direction detecting sensor is provided to at least one of the first and second cleaning units to detect a moving direction of the window cleaning apparatus. The control part controls a movement of the window cleaning apparatus, based on the moving direction detected by the direction detecting sensor. The collision sensing part senses a shock to the window cleaning apparatus. The offset setting part sets a direction offset of the direction detecting sensor when the window cleaning apparatus collides with a frame of the window.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2011Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignees: Intellectual Discovery Co., Ltd., Korea Institute of Robot & ConvergenceInventors: Man Hyun Ryu, Kwang Mok Jung, Young Ho Choi
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Patent number: 8790468Abstract: A cleaning system for cleaning a surface comprising: a frame for the cleaning system; a liquid supply source; a liquid applicator; and at least one thruster on the frame to provide force against the frame to maintain support with the surface to be cleaned. A surface is cleaned by providing the cleaning device, moving the cleaning device both horizontally and vertically along the surface, and stabilizing the cleaning device with at least one thruster emitting a fluid stream comprising gas.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2008Date of Patent: July 29, 2014Assignee: Sky Robotics, Inc.Inventor: Dallas W. Simonette
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Patent number: 8745809Abstract: A cleaning device includes a first expansion unit in which a first expansion member is received and the first expansion unit is connected to a cylinder which has a piston received therein and the piston defines a first room and a second room in the cylinder. The piston has a first magnetic member which magnetically drives a movable member with a second magnetic member connected thereto. The movable member moves along the cylinder. A cleaning unit is co-movably connected with the movable member. By expansion of the first expansion unit by the sun, the movable member is moved and the cleaning unit is moved along the glass surface. The action consumes no electric power.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2011Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Kun Shan UniversityInventor: Song-Hao Wang
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Patent number: 8713740Abstract: A system for cleaning windows in tall buildings, comprises a chassis (7) with means for its mounting on a suspended platform. (3) It also includes a rotating conveyor belt (61) mounted on the chassis and brushes (62) mounted on the conveyor belt. Each brush is mounted through extender means (63). Preferably, the conveyor belt includes means for its rotation in a generally horizontal direction. The means for rotating the conveyor belt include a first roller (71) and a second roller (72) mounted on the chassis. The conveyor belt is preferably mounted between the rollers and further includes motor means for rotating one of the rollers.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2009Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Inventor: Aviram Mann
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Patent number: 8661598Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning facades including glass surfaces of high rise buildings. The apparatus includes a machine having a frame for attaching components and equipments of a main unit; a thrust provider for generating force to keep the main unit in contact with the facade; a hoist to enable lifting and lowering of the main unit; a laundry unit comprising a fabric sheet to clean the facade; a roller attached to end of extended arms of the main unit; and a control unit installing electrical controls on the main unit. The machine provides a number of novel elements and safety features by applying simple design concept that is practicable to wide range of buildings of glass or flat façades.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2011Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Inventor: Ahmed Ali Ibrahim Alshehhi
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Patent number: 8434504Abstract: A cleaning apparatus and method for cleaning generally upright surfaces, walls and windows of a building has a frame rotatably supporting one or more brushes adapted to engage the upright surface of a building. A davit supported on top of the building is connected to a cable pendently supporting the frame and brushes. A winch driven with a motor mounted on the frame operably connected to the cable operates to move the frame and brushes relative to the upright surface. A counterforce generator mounted on the frame establishes a force on the frame and brushes that maintains the brushes in effective continuous engagement with the upright surface during cleaning thereof.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2010Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Inventors: Dallas W. Simonette, Michael R. Lange
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Publication number: 20130055516Abstract: A cleaning device includes a first expansion unit in which a first expansion member is received and the first expansion unit is connected to a cylinder which has a piston received therein and the piston defines a first room and a second room in the cylinder. The piston has a first magnetic member which magnetically drives a movable member with a second magnetic member connected thereto. The movable member moves along the cylinder. A cleaning unit is co-movably connected with the movable member. By expansion of the first expansion unit by the sun, the movable member is moved and the cleaning unit is moved along the glass surface. The action consumes no electric power.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 7, 2011Publication date: March 7, 2013Inventor: Song-Hao WANG
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Patent number: 8387632Abstract: A camera apparatus (1) includes: a CCD (2) serving as an imaging device; a cleaning member (3) for performing cleaning of the front face of the CCD (2); and a cleaning controller (13) for controlling the movement of the cleaning member (3). Cleaning control is carried out so that when the cleaning of the CCD (2) is started, the cleaning member (3) is moved to a cleaning position located in front of and in proximity to the CCD (2), and when the cleaning of the CCD (2) is finished, the cleaning member (3) is moved to a retracted position retracted from the cleaning position. The camera apparatus itself is provided with the function of cleaning the imaging device, thereby enabling reduction in time and effort for a cleaning operation performed on the imaging device.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2008Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Kazumasa Saito, Hajime Matsumoto, Tetsurou Kajino, Haruo Kogane, Jyouji Wada
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Publication number: 20130037050Abstract: A cleaner includes at least one cleaning component, a pump module, a driving module and a control system. The at least one cleaning component and the plate delimit at least one space. The pump module is connected to the at least one space to pump air out of the at least a space to form a negative air pressure in the at least one space so that the cleaner is sucked on the plate. The driving module is connected to the at least a cleaning component to drive the at least a cleaning component. The control system is coupled to the pump module and the driving module and controls the driving module to cause the at least one driven cleaning component to make a movement on the plate.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2012Publication date: February 14, 2013Inventor: Chi-Mou Chao
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Publication number: 20130014782Abstract: Provided are a window cleaning apparatus and a method of controlling the same. The window cleaning apparatus including first and second cleaning units which are respectively attached on both surfaces of a window using a magnetic force to move together with each other includes a first magnetic module provided in the first cleaning unit, a second magnetic module provided in the second cleaning unit, a magnetic force detection part for detecting a magnetic force between the first and second magnetic modules, and a magnetic force control part for controlling the magnetic force between the first and second magnetic modules.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2010Publication date: January 17, 2013Applicant: ILSHIM GLOBAL CO., LTD.Inventor: Man Hyun Ryu
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Patent number: 8307838Abstract: A self-operating windshield wiping apparatus for cleaning a window includes a portable housing having a cavity, and a curvilinear guide track formed in an outermost wall thereof. A suction cup is eccentrically positioned within the cavity and partially extends outwardly from the open bottom end for removably securing the portable housing to a support surface. A handle is rotatably mated to the portable housing and reciprocated along the curvilinear guide track, a rotating cam situated within the portable housing and mated to the handle, and a motor communicatively mated to the rotating cam. Such a motor causes the rotating cam to rotate along a circular travel path within the cavity. A wiper blade section is coupled to a distal end of the handle and simultaneously reciprocated with the handle along a first arcuate path as the rotating cam is revolved along the circular travel path.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2009Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Inventor: Jeffrey Hubbard
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Publication number: 20120110759Abstract: Provided is an automatic cleaner, which includes a first moving part, a second moving part, a moving wheel, a driving motor, a fixing member, and a control part. The first moving part is movably disposed at a side of an object to be cleaned. The second moving part is movably disposed at another side of the object. The moving wheel is disposed on at least one of the first moving part and the second moving part. The driving motor provides driving force to the moving wheel. The fixing member fixes the first moving part and the second moving part to each other through the object. The control part increases or decreases the driving force output from the driving motor according to a moving direction of the first or second moving part.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 16, 2010Publication date: May 10, 2012Inventor: Jong-Hyun Seo
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Patent number: 8148467Abstract: A silicone-polymer-modified vulcanized-rubber composition based on unvulcanized rubber, characterized in that the composition can be produced by co-vulcanization from the following components: A1) at least one vinyl-reactive polysiloxane component, and/or A2) at least one mercapto-reactive polysiloxane component, and B) at least one unsaturated vulcanizable unvulcanized-rubber component, and to a process for the production of said silicone-polymer-modified vulcanized-rubber composition based on unvulcanized rubber, and also to a windshield-wiper blade encompassing a silicone-polymer-modified vulcanized-rubber composition based on unvulcanized rubber.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2009Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Eric Pieters, Yves Verburgh
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Patent number: 8127390Abstract: A robot according to the present invention cleans the outer surface of a window/wall by performing automatic movement along the outer surface of the window/wall while being vacuum-sucked onto the outer surface. The robot includes a moving unit for moving the robot in a first direction, a direction changing unit for rotating the moving unit to change a movement direction of the robot, and a cleaning unit mounted on at least one side of the robot. The robot can prevent water used to clean the window or outer wall of a building from being dropped toward a lower story. Also, the robot can run smoothly so that it can achieve a satisfactory cleaning operation without forming spots. The robot uses a turntable system, so that it can also freely change the movement direction thereof about the center thereof up to 360° without requiring any radius of rotation, to easily approach even a dead zone.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2008Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Inventor: Yong Wook Kim