Pool Cleaning System And Method To Automatically Clean Surfaces Of A Pool Using Images From A Camera

What is this patent about?

’191 is related to the field of robotic pool cleaners. Traditionally, cleaning a swimming pool manually is a time-consuming task. Automated robotic pool cleaners have been developed to address this, but ensuring complete and satisfactory cleaning of all pool surfaces remains a challenge. This patent addresses the problem of effectively controlling and monitoring robotic pool cleaners to guarantee comprehensive cleaning.

The underlying idea behind ’191 is to use real-time visual feedback to guide the movement of a robotic pool cleaner. A camera mounted on the cleaner captures images of the pool floor. These images are then processed to determine the cleanliness of the area. Based on this cleanliness assessment, the cleaner is directed to move towards or away from specific areas, ensuring that all parts of the pool are adequately cleaned.

The claims of ’191 focus on a self-propelled pool cleaner equipped with a camera and a controller. The controller analyzes images captured by the camera to generate control signals. These signals then dictate the movement of the cleaner, directing it to areas that require cleaning or away from already clean areas. The claims also cover a system incorporating such a cleaner and a filter for collecting debris.

In practice, the pool cleaner moves around the pool, and the camera continuously feeds images to the controller. The controller uses image processing techniques to identify areas with debris or insufficient cleaning. The controller then sends commands to the drive system, steering the cleaner to those specific spots for targeted cleaning. This closed-loop feedback system ensures efficient and thorough cleaning of the entire pool surface.

This approach differs from prior solutions that rely on pre-programmed cleaning patterns or random movements. By using visual feedback, the cleaner can adapt to the specific conditions of the pool, such as varying levels of debris or uneven surfaces. This adaptive cleaning strategy ensures that no area is missed and that all surfaces are cleaned to a satisfactory level, regardless of the pool's shape or condition. The system can also present a visual map of the pool to the user, highlighting areas that have been cleaned and those that still need attention.