Self-propelled device and process for exploring an area with the device

US5537017A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• Siemens Aktiengesellschaft · DE

Inventors

• Wendelin Feiten · Neubiberg, DE
• Marcus Moller · Plön, DE
• Werner Neubauer · Annandale, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 21, 1994
• Grant date: Jul 16, 1996
• Expiry date: Nov 21, 2014

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G05D1/0274
• WIPO field: Control
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

The device and process is utilized for exploring an unknown working area. It is not necessary for this purpose to apply any markings in the area before using the device and the area does not have to have any special characteristics for determining location. The described device takes markings with it, for example small metal plates or a power supply cable which it lays out while it moves along a boundary of the area. It then turns around and moves back along the marking, laying out new markings. On encountering the next wall of the area it turns, picks up the previously laid-out markings and again lays new markings. This operation continues until the entire area has been covered. An example of the use of the device could be an industrial vacuum cleaner for cleaning carpet floors.