Patent Description:
Some surface cleaning apparatus also include a fluid delivery system that delivers cleaning fluid to a surface to be cleaned. Multi-surface vacuum cleaners are adapted for cleaning hard floor surfaces such as tile and hardwood and soft floor surfaces such as carpet and upholstery, and can include fluid delivery and recovery systems. Other multi-surface cleaning apparatuses include "dry" vacuum cleaners which can clean different surface types, but do not dispense or recover fluid. <CIT> relates to a mobile robot providing environmental mapping for household environmental control.

The invention relates to a surface cleaning apparatus according to claim <NUM>. Further preferred embodiments are defined by the dependent claims.

Aspects of the invention generally relates to a surface cleaning apparatus. In particular, aspects relate to an improved user interface for a surface cleaning apparatus.

According to one aspect, a surface cleaning apparatus is provided with a proximity-triggered user interface.

According to another aspect, a surface cleaning apparatus is provided with a user interface configured to provide one or more indicia to the user based on the proximity of the user to the surface cleaning apparatus.

According to another aspect, a surface cleaning apparatus is provided with one or more proximity sensors and a user interface configured to receive input from the one or more proximity sensors and provide one or more indicia to the user based on the input.

The functional systems of the surface cleaning apparatus can be arranged into any desired configuration, such as an upright device having a base and an upright body for directing the base across the surface to be cleaned, a canister device having a cleaning implement connected to a wheeled base by a vacuum hose, a portable device adapted to be hand carried by a user for cleaning relatively small areas, an autonomous or robotic device, or a commercial device. Any of the aforementioned cleaners can be adapted to include a flexible vacuum hose, which can form a portion of the working air conduit between a nozzle and the suction source. The surface cleaning apparatus may specifically be in the form of a multi-surface wet vacuum cleaner. As used herein, the term "multi-surface wet vacuum cleaner" includes a vacuum cleaner that can be used to clean hard floor surfaces such as tile and hardwood and soft floor surfaces such as carpet.

The surface cleaning apparatus can include at least a recovery system for removing the spent cleaning fluid (e.g. liquid) and debris from the surface to be cleaned and storing the spent cleaning fluid and debris. The surface cleaning apparatus can optionally further include a fluid delivery system for storing cleaning fluid (e.g. liquid) and delivering the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned. Aspects of the invention may also be incorporated into a steam apparatus, such as surface cleaning apparatus with steam delivery. Aspects of the invention may also be incorporated into an apparatus with only recovery capabilities, such as surface cleaning apparatus without fluid delivery.

The surface cleaning apparatus can include a controller operably coupled with the various functional systems of the apparatus for controlling its operation and at least one user interface through which a user of the apparatus interacts with the controller. The controller is operably coupled with the at least one user interface for receiving inputs from a user, and can further be operably coupled with at least one sensor for receiving input about the environment and can use the sensor input to control the operation of the surface cleaning apparatus.

For example, the controller can be operably coupled with at least one proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of a nearby user without any physical contact. The controller can use the proximity sensor input to provide one or more indicia about the status of the apparatus to the user via the user interface. The indicia may be visual or audible.

<FIG> is a perspective view of a surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> according to one aspect of the present invention. As discussed in further detail below, the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> is provided with a proximity-triggered user interface, including one or more status indicators which communicate information regarding the apparatus <NUM> to the user based on the proximity of the user.

As illustrated herein, the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> is an upright multi-surface wet vacuum cleaner having a housing that includes an upright body or handle assembly <NUM> and a cleaning head or base <NUM> mounted to or coupled with the upright handle assembly <NUM> and adapted for movement across a surface to be cleaned. For purposes of description related to the figures, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," "outer," and derivatives thereof shall relate to the disclosure as oriented in <FIG> from the perspective of a user behind the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, which defines the rear of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary.

The upright handle assembly <NUM> comprises an upper handle <NUM> and a frame <NUM>. Frame <NUM> comprises a main support section or body assembly supporting at least a supply tank assembly <NUM> and a recovery tank assembly <NUM>, and may further support additional components of the handle assembly <NUM>. The surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> can include a fluid delivery or supply pathway, including and at least partially defined by the supply tank assembly <NUM>, for storing cleaning fluid and delivering the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned and a fluid recovery pathway, including and at least partially defined by the recovery tank assembly <NUM>, for removing the spent cleaning fluid and debris from the surface to be cleaned and storing the spent cleaning fluid and debris until emptied by the user.

A moveable joint assembly <NUM> can be formed at a lower end of the frame <NUM> and moveably mounts the base <NUM> to the upright assembly <NUM>. In the embodiment shown herein, the base <NUM> can pivot up and down about at least one axis relative to the upright assembly <NUM>. The joint assembly <NUM> can alternatively comprise a universal joint, such that the base <NUM> can pivot about at least two axes relative to the upright assembly <NUM>. Wiring and/or conduits can optionally supplying air and/or liquid (or other fluids) between the base <NUM> and the upright assembly <NUM>, or vice versa, can extend though the swivel joint assembly <NUM>. A locking mechanism (not shown) can be provided to lock the joint assembly <NUM> against movement about at least one of the axes of the joint assembly <NUM>.

The surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> can include at least one user interface through which a user can interact with the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. The at least one user interface can enable operation and control of the apparatus <NUM> from the user's end, and can also provide feedback information from the apparatus <NUM> to the user. The at least one user interface can be electrically coupled with electrical components, including, but not limited to, circuitry electrically connected to various components of the fluid delivery and recovery systems of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, the user interface of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> includes a human-machine interface (HMI) <NUM> having one or more input controls, such as but not limited to buttons, triggers, toggles, keys, switches, or the like, operably connected to systems in the apparatus <NUM> to affect and control its operation. The user interface of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> also includes a status user interface (SUI) <NUM> having at least one status indicator <NUM> which communicates a condition or status of the apparatus <NUM> to the user. The at least one status indicator <NUM> can communicate visually and/or audibly. The HMI <NUM> and the SUI <NUM> can be provided as separate interfaces or can be integrated with each other, such as in a composite user interface, graphical user interface, or multimedia user interface.

The surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> can further include a controller <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>) operably coupled with the various function systems of the apparatus <NUM> for controlling its operation. The controller <NUM> is operably coupled with the HMI <NUM> for receiving inputs from a user and with the SUI <NUM> for providing one or more indicia about the status of the apparatus <NUM> to the user via the at least one status indicator <NUM>, and can further be operably coupled with at least one sensor for receiving input about the environment and can use the sensor input to control the operation of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. For example, the controller <NUM> can be operably coupled with at least one proximity sensor <NUM> configured to detect the presence of a nearby user without any physical contact. In other words, a user need to physically touch the apparatus <NUM>, including its housing, or the proximity sensor <NUM> for the user's presence to be registered by the controller <NUM>. The at least one proximity sensor <NUM> can comprise any suitable configuration, including electromagnetic, ultrasonic, optical, or acoustic, for example. Examples of suitable proximity sensors include passive infrared (PIR) proximity sensors, microwave proximity sensors, ultrasonic proximity sensors, or photoelectric sensors.

The at least one proximity sensor <NUM> can transmit data either through a wired connection or wirelessly. In an exemplary arrangement, the at least one proximity sensor <NUM> has a wired connection with the controller <NUM>, and transmits proximity data via the wired connection to the controller <NUM>. The controller <NUM> can use the proximity sensor input to provide one or more indicia about the status of the apparatus <NUM> to the user via the SUI <NUM>.

In one example, the controller <NUM> can comprise a microcontroller (MCU), and can be located in the upright handle assembly <NUM>, such as in the frame <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In the embodiment shown, the controller <NUM> is in operable communication with but separate from the HMI <NUM> and the SUI <NUM>. In other embodiments, the controller <NUM> can be integrated with the HMI <NUM> or the SUI <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, in the embodiment shown, the HMI <NUM> and the SUI <NUM> are physically separate from each other. The HMI <NUM> in particular is on the handgrip <NUM>, while the SUI <NUM> is on the frame <NUM>. In other embodiments, the SUI <NUM>, particularly the status indicators <NUM>, can be directly adjacent the HMI <NUM> or can be integrated with the HMI <NUM>, such as in a composite user interface, graphical user interface, or multimedia user interface. In either alternative, the HMI <NUM> may be provided elsewhere on the apparatus <NUM>, such as on the frame <NUM>.

The at least one proximity sensor <NUM> has a field of view and working range, which together defines a detection zone for the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. The at least one proximity sensor <NUM> can be located anywhere on the housing of the apparatus <NUM>, including on the upright handle assembly <NUM> or base <NUM>, to define a detection zone covering an area exterior of the housing to detect users approaching the apparatus <NUM>. The detection zone can be configured to cover at least the front of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, and can include at least one proximity sensor <NUM> with a field of view of up to <NUM> degrees. Further, the detection zone can be configured to cover at least the front and sides of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, and can include at least one proximity sensor <NUM> with a field of view of up to <NUM> degrees, or greater than <NUM> degrees, including up to <NUM> degrees. Still further, the detection zone can be configured to cover the front, sides, and rear of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, and can include at least one proximity sensor <NUM> with a field of view of <NUM> degrees. In embodiments where multiple proximity sensors <NUM> are provided, each sensor can have a field of view which collectively define the detection zone, and the fields may be disparate or overlapping. Multiple proximity sensors <NUM> can be employed to provide a detection zone with the coverages described above. For any of these exemplary detection zones, the working range of the at least proximity sensor <NUM> can, for example, be at least <NUM> feet, at least <NUM> feet, and distances therebetween.

In one example, at least one proximity sensor <NUM> can be located in the handgrip <NUM>, with a field of view facing generally forward, and/or at least one proximity sensor <NUM> can be located in the frame <NUM>, such as in an upper portion of the main support section or body assembly, with a field of view facing generally forward. In this example, the detection zone for the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, whether one or both of the sensors <NUM> are included, cover at least the front of the apparatus <NUM>, as well as a portion of the sides of the apparatus <NUM>, and can be approximately <NUM> degrees or greater than <NUM> degrees. Such a detection zone detects the presence of a nearby user approaching from the front or sides of the apparatus <NUM>. Various other locations for the at least one proximity sensor <NUM> are possible, such as in the base <NUM>, elsewhere on the handle <NUM>, or elsewhere on the frame <NUM>.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> through line II-II <FIG>. The upper handle <NUM> can include a handgrip <NUM> and the HMI <NUM>. In other embodiments, the HMI <NUM> can be provided elsewhere on the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, such as on the frame <NUM>. In the present example, a trigger <NUM> is mounted to the handgrip <NUM> and operably communicates with the fluid delivery system to control fluid delivery from the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. Other actuators, such as a thumb switch, can be provided instead of the trigger <NUM>. A carry handle <NUM> can be disposed on the frame <NUM>, forwardly of the handle <NUM>, at an angle to facilitate manual lifting and carrying of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>.

The supply tank assembly <NUM> can be mounted to the frame <NUM> in any configuration. In the present example, the supply tank assembly <NUM> is removably mounted to a housing of the frame <NUM> such that the supply tank assembly <NUM> partially rests in the upper rear portion of the frame <NUM> and can be removed for filling.

The recovery tank assembly <NUM> can be mounted to the frame <NUM> in any configuration. In the present example, the recovery tank assembly <NUM> is removably mounted to the front of the frame <NUM>, below the supply tank assembly <NUM>, and can be removed for emptying.

The fluid delivery system is configured to deliver cleaning fluid from the supply tank assembly <NUM> to a surface to be cleaned, and can include, as briefly discussed above, a fluid delivery or supply pathway. The cleaning fluid can comprise one or more of any suitable cleaning fluids, including, but not limited to, water, compositions, concentrated detergent, diluted detergent, etc., and mixtures thereof. For example, the fluid can comprise a mixture of water and concentrated detergent.

The supply tank assembly <NUM> includes at least one supply chamber <NUM> for holding cleaning fluid and a supply valve assembly <NUM> controlling fluid flow through an outlet of the supply chamber <NUM>. Alternatively, supply tank assembly <NUM> can include multiple supply chambers, such as one chamber containing water and another chamber containing a cleaning agent.

For a removable supply tank assembly <NUM>, the supply valve assembly <NUM> can mate with a receiving assembly on the frame <NUM> and can be configured to automatically open when the supply tank assembly <NUM> is seated on the frame <NUM> to release fluid to the fluid delivery pathway.

In addition to the supply tank assembly <NUM>, the fluid delivery pathway can include a fluid distributor <NUM> (<FIG>) having at least one outlet for applying the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned. In one embodiment, the fluid distributor <NUM> can be one or more spray tips on the base <NUM> configured to deliver cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned directly or indirectly by spraying a brushroll <NUM>. Other embodiments of fluid distributors <NUM> are possible, such as a spray manifold having multiple outlets or a spray nozzle configured to spray cleaning fluid outwardly from the base <NUM> in front of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>.

The fluid delivery system can further comprise a flow control system for controlling the flow of fluid from the supply tank assembly <NUM> to the fluid distributor <NUM>. In one configuration, the flow control system can comprise a pump <NUM> which pressurizes the system. The trigger <NUM> can be operably coupled with the flow control system such that pressing the trigger <NUM> will deliver fluid from the fluid distributor <NUM>. The pump <NUM> can be positioned within a housing of the frame <NUM>, and in the illustrated embodiment the pump <NUM> is beneath and in fluid communication with the supply tank assembly <NUM> via the valve assembly <NUM>. In one example, the pump <NUM> can be a centrifugal pump. In another example, the pump <NUM> can be a solenoid pump having a single, dual, or variable speed.

In another configuration of the fluid supply pathway, the pump <NUM> can be eliminated and the flow control system can comprise a gravity-feed system having a valve fluidly coupled with an outlet of the supply tank assembly <NUM>, whereby when valve is open, fluid will flow under the force of gravity to the fluid distributor <NUM>.

Optionally, a heater (not shown) can be provided for heating the cleaning fluid prior to delivering the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned. In one example, an in-line heater can be located downstream of the supply tank assembly <NUM>, and upstream or downstream of the pump <NUM>. Other types of heaters can also be used. In yet another example, the cleaning fluid can be heated using exhaust air from a motor-cooling pathway for a suction source of the recovery system.

The recovery system is configured to remove spent cleaning fluid and debris from the surface to be cleaned and store the spent cleaning fluid and debris on the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> for later disposal, and can include, as briefly discussed above, a fluid recovery pathway. The fluid recovery pathway can include at least a dirty inlet and a clean outlet. The pathway can be formed by, among other elements, a suction nozzle <NUM> defining the dirty inlet, a suction source <NUM> in fluid communication with the suction nozzle <NUM> for generating a working air stream, the recovery tank assembly <NUM>, and exhaust vents <NUM> (<FIG>) defining the clean air outlet. In the illustrated example, the recovery tank assembly <NUM> comprises a recovery tank container <NUM>, which forms the collection container for the fluid recovery system.

The suction nozzle <NUM> can be provided on the base <NUM> can be adapted to be adjacent the surface to be cleaned as the base <NUM> moves across a surface. The brushroll <NUM> can be provided adjacent to the suction nozzle <NUM> for agitating the surface to be cleaned so that the debris is more easily ingested into the suction nozzle <NUM>. The suction nozzle <NUM> is further in fluid communication with the recovery tank assembly <NUM> through a flexible conduit <NUM>. The flexible conduit <NUM> can pass through the joint assembly <NUM>.

The suction source <NUM>, which may be a motor/fan assembly <NUM>, is provided in fluid communication with the recovery tank assembly <NUM>. The motor/fan assembly <NUM> can be positioned within a housing of the frame <NUM>, such as above the recovery tank assembly <NUM> and forwardly of the supply tank assembly <NUM>. The recovery system can also be provided with one or more additional filters upstream or downstream of the motor/fan assembly <NUM>. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a pre-motor filter <NUM> is provided in the working air path downstream of the recovery tank assembly <NUM> and upstream of the motor/fan assembly.

Electrical components of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, including the motor/fan assembly <NUM>, the pump <NUM>, and a drive motor for the brushroll <NUM>, can be electrically coupled to a power source <NUM>, such as a battery or a power cord plugged into a household outlet. In one exemplary arrangement, the power source <NUM> may comprise a user replaceable battery. In another exemplary arrangement the power source <NUM> may comprise a rechargeable battery. In one example, the battery <NUM> can be a lithium ion battery.

The HMI <NUM> can include one or more switches for controlling actuation of the motor/fan assembly <NUM>, the brushroll <NUM>, and/or the pump <NUM>. In one example, the HMI <NUM> can be provided with actuators for selecting between multiple cleaning modes. For instance, the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> can have at least a hard floor cleaning mode, a carpet cleaning mode, and a self-cleaning mode.

<FIG> is a close-up sectional view through a forward section of the base <NUM>. The brushroll <NUM> can be provided at a forward portion of the base <NUM> and received in a brush chamber <NUM> on the base <NUM>. The brushroll <NUM> is positioned for rotational movement in a direction R about a central rotational axis X. The base <NUM> includes the suction nozzle <NUM> that is in fluid communication with the flexible conduit <NUM> (<FIG>) and which is defined within the brush chamber <NUM>. In the present embodiment the suction nozzle <NUM> is configured to extract fluid and debris from the brushroll <NUM> and from the surface to be cleaned.

In the example embodiment, the brushroll <NUM> can be operably coupled to and driven by a drive assembly including a dedicated brush motor <NUM> (<FIG>) in the base <NUM>. Alternatively, the motor/fan assembly <NUM> can provide both vacuum suction and brushroll rotation.

The fluid distributor <NUM> of the present embodiment includes multiple spray tips, though only one spray tip is visible in <FIG>, which are mounted to the base <NUM> with an outlet in the brush chamber <NUM> and oriented to spray fluid inwardly onto the brushroll <NUM>.

A front interference wiper <NUM> is mounted at a forward portion of the brush chamber <NUM> and is configured to interface with a leading portion of the brushroll <NUM>, as defined by the direction of rotation R of the brushroll <NUM>. The interference wiper <NUM> is below the fluid distributor <NUM>, such that the wetted portion brushroll <NUM> rotates past the interference wiper <NUM>, which scrapes excess fluid off the brushroll <NUM>, before reaching the surface to be cleaned.

A rear squeegee <NUM> is mounted to the base <NUM> behind the brushroll <NUM> and the brush chamber <NUM> and is configured to contact the surface as the base <NUM> moves across the surface to be cleaned. The rear squeegee <NUM> wipes residual fluid from the surface to be cleaned so that it can be drawn into the fluid recovery pathway via the suction nozzle <NUM>, thereby leaving a moisture and streak-free finish on the surface to be cleaned.

In the present example, brushroll <NUM> can be a hybrid brushroll suitable for use on both hard and soft surfaces, and for wet or dry vacuum cleaning. In one embodiment, the brushroll <NUM> comprises a dowel <NUM>, a plurality of bristles <NUM> extending from the dowel <NUM>, and microfiber material <NUM> provided on the dowel <NUM> and arranged between the bristles.

Referring to <FIG>, the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> can optionally be provided with a storage tray <NUM> that can be used when storing the apparatus <NUM>. The storage tray <NUM> can be configured to receive the base <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM> in an upright, stored position. The storage tray <NUM> can further be configured for further functionality beyond simple storage, such as for charging the apparatus <NUM> and/or for self-cleaning of the apparatus <NUM>.

In one embodiment of the storage tray <NUM>, the storage tray <NUM> can be a docking station configured to charge the battery <NUM>. The storage tray <NUM> can optionally having charging contacts, and corresponding charging contacts can be provided on the exterior of the apparatus <NUM>, such as on the exterior of the base <NUM>. When operation has ceased, the apparatus <NUM> can be locked upright and placed into the storage tray <NUM> for recharging the battery <NUM>.

In another embodiment of the storage tray <NUM>, the storage tray <NUM> can be used during a self-cleaning mode of the apparatus <NUM>, which can be used to clean one or more components of the recovery system and/or the fluid delivery system, such as the brushroll <NUM> and internal components of the fluid recovery pathway of apparatus <NUM>. The storage tray <NUM> can optionally be adapted to contain a liquid for the purposes of cleaning the interior parts of apparatus <NUM> and/or receiving liquid that may leak from the supply tank assembly <NUM> while the apparatus <NUM> is not in active operation. When operation has ceased, the apparatus <NUM> can be locked upright and placed into the storage tray <NUM> for cleaning. The apparatus <NUM> is prepared for self-cleaning by coupling the apparatus <NUM> to the power source <NUM> and filling the storage tray <NUM> to a predesignated fill level with a cleaning liquid, such as water. The user can select the self-cleaning mode via the HMI <NUM>. In one example, during the self-cleaning mode, the suction source <NUM> and the brush motor <NUM> are activated, which draws cleaning liquid in the storage tray <NUM> into the fluid recovery pathway. The self-cleaning mode can be configured to last for a predetermined amount of time or until the cleaning liquid in storage tray <NUM> has been depleted.

<FIG> is an exploded perspective view of the handle <NUM> of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, showing one embodiment of the HMI <NUM> for the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. The HMI <NUM> as shown herein is provided at a front side of the handgrip <NUM>. In one embodiment, the HMI <NUM> can include a printed circuit board (PCB) assembly <NUM> coupled to the handgrip <NUM> by a bracket <NUM>. One or more input controls <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> in register with the PCB assembly <NUM> are provided on an exterior of the handgrip <NUM> for user access. The input controls <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> can be configured to provide power to one or more electrical components of the apparatus <NUM>, including the suction source <NUM>, the brush motor <NUM>, and the pump <NUM>, in various combinations. A waterproof seal (not shown) can optionally be provided around the PCB assembly <NUM> to protect the PCB assembly <NUM> from liquid ingress.

In one embodiment, one input control <NUM> initiates a hard floor cleaning mode, one input control <NUM> initiates a carpet cleaning mode, one input control <NUM> initiates the self-cleaning mode, and one input control <NUM> controls the power supply to the SUI <NUM>, as described in further detail below. In one example of a hard floor cleaning mode, the suction source <NUM>, the brush motor <NUM>, and the pump <NUM> are powered, with the pump <NUM> operating at a first flow rate. In the carpet cleaning mode, the suction source <NUM>, the brush motor <NUM>, and the pump <NUM> are powered, with the pump <NUM> operating at a second flow rate which is greater than the first flow rate.

One or more of the input controls <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> can comprise a button, trigger, toggle, key, switch, or the like, or any combination thereof In one example, one or more of the input controls <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> can comprise a capacitive button.

Optionally, the HMI <NUM> can include at least one light source <NUM> that emits light. For example, the PCB assembly <NUM> can include at least one light-emitting diode (LED); as shown herein, the PCB assembly <NUM> can include at least one LED array.

The trigger <NUM> can be provided on a rear side of the handgrip <NUM>, opposite the HMI <NUM>, and can project at least partially exteriorly of the handgrip <NUM> for use access. A spring <NUM> can bias the trigger <NUM> outwardly from the handgrip <NUM>. The trigger <NUM> can electronically communicate with the fluid delivery system. Alternatively, the trigger <NUM> can mechanically communicate with the fluid delivery system, such as via a push rod (not shown) that runs through the upper handle <NUM>.

<FIG> is a front view of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, showing one embodiment of the SUI <NUM> for the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. The SUI <NUM> as shown herein is provided at a front side of the frame <NUM>, below the handle <NUM> and above the base <NUM>. In one embodiment, the SUI <NUM> can include multiple status indicators <NUM> which can display various detailed apparatus status information such as, but not limited to, battery status, Wi-Fi connection status, clean water level, dirty water level, filter status, floor type, self-cleaning, or any number of other status information.

The status indicators <NUM> can be visual displays for conveying the status of a component of the apparatus <NUM>. The visual display may include any of a variety of lights, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), textual displays, graphical displays, or any variety of known status indicators.

In one exemplary arrangement, the SUI <NUM> can comprise an LED flexible matrix display. The flexible matrix display can, for example, include a printed circuit board (PCB), an isolator, a diffuser, a masking surface, and a decorative layer. In the embodiment shown, the flexible matrix display is provided on a front side of the frame <NUM>. The SUI <NUM> can further have an opaque molded plastic part or trim component which encloses and protects portions of the flexible matrix display.

In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the SUI <NUM> can include a battery status indicator 74A, a Wi-Fi connection status indicator 74B, a clean water level status indicator 74C, a dirty water level status indicator 74D, a filter status indicator 74E, a floor type status indicator 74F, and a self-cleaning status indicator <NUM>.

The battery status indicator 74A can convey the amount of charge left within the battery <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the battery status indicator 74A includes a battery graphic with three light-emitting diodes, which signal a charge status of approximately <NUM> percent, <NUM> approximately <NUM> percent, and <NUM> percent. Other configurations for the battery status indicator 74A are possible.

The Wi-Fi connection status indicator 74B can convey that the apparatus <NUM> is connected to Wi-Fi, and can be provided for a surface cleaning apparatus that is Wi-Fi enabled. In the illustrated example, the Wi-Fi connection status indicator 74B includes a light-emitting diode (LED) which illuminates when the apparatus <NUM> is connected to Wi-Fi. Other configurations for the Wi-Fi connection status indicator 74B are possible.

The clean water level status indicator 74C can convey the level or amount of clean water within the supply chamber <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the clean water level status indicator 74C includes an LED array configured as a bar graph to indicate the level or amount of clean water in the supply chamber <NUM>. Other configurations for the clean water level status indicator 74C are possible.

The dirty water level status indicator 74D can convey the level or amount of dirty water within the recovery tank container <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the dirty water level status indicator 74D includes an LED array configured as a bar graph to indicate the level or amount of dirty water in the recovery tank container <NUM>. Other configurations for the dirty water level status indicator 74D are possible.

The filter status indicator 74E can convey the status of a filter, such as the pre-motor filter <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the filter status indicator 74E includes a LED which illuminates when the filter <NUM> needs replacement or cleaning. Other configurations for the filter status indicator 74E are possible.

The floor type status indicator 74F can convey the type of surface below the base <NUM>, such as carpet, including different carpet pile heights like low carpet pile or high carpet pile, or bare floor such as wood, tile, or linoleum. The controller <NUM> may also be in communication with a manual override element allowing a user to manually set the floor type status, which is then displayed by the floor type status indicator 74F. In the illustrated example, the floor type status indicator 74F includes a light-emitting diode which illuminates when bare floors are detected. Other configurations for the floor type status indicator 74F are possible.

The self-cleaning status indicator <NUM> can convey that the apparatus <NUM> is in a self-cleaning mode, described above. In the illustrated example, the self-cleaning status indicator <NUM> includes a light-emitting diode which illuminates when the apparatus <NUM> is in the self-cleaning mode. Other configurations for the self-cleaning status indicator <NUM> are possible.

<FIG> is a schematic control diagram for the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. In addition to the at least one proximity sensor <NUM>, the apparatus <NUM> can include at least one other status sensor <NUM> in communication with the controller <NUM>. The status sensor <NUM> can provide input about at least one component of the apparatus <NUM>, and the controller <NUM> can use the sensor input to control the operation of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. For instance, the controller <NUM> can use sensor input to provide one or more indicia about the status of the apparatus <NUM> to the user via the status indicators 74A-<NUM> provided on the SUI <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the apparatus <NUM> can include multiple status sensors <NUM> which can detect events or changes in its environment related to battery status, Wi-Fi connection status, clean water level, dirty water level, filter status, floor type, self-cleaning, or any number of other status information, and can transmit the information to the controller <NUM>.

In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the sensors can include a battery sensor 96A, a Wi-Fi connection sensor 96B, a clean water level sensor 96C, a dirty water level sensor 96D, a filter sensor 96E, a floor type sensor 96F, and a self-cleaning mode sensor <NUM>.

The battery sensor 96A can detect the power capacity or charge level remaining within the battery <NUM>. One example of a battery sensor 96A comprises a sensor module configured to measure the discharging and charging current, voltage, and temperature of the battery cells during operation. Other configurations for the battery sensor 96A are possible.

The Wi-Fi connection sensor 96B can detect the presence of a Wi-Fi network, signal strength, unique router identification data, or any combination thereof, and is configured to connect the apparatus <NUM> to the internet via a local Wi-Fi network. In one example, the Wi-Fi connection sensor 96B can comprise a Wi-Fi module for processing Wi-Fi signals and storing firmware, a Wi-Fi antenna for sending and receiving Wi-Fi signals, and optional LEDs for indicating power and Wi-Fi network connection status. Other configurations for the Wi-Fi connection sensor 96B are possible.

The clean water level sensor 96C can detect the level of clean water within the supply chamber <NUM>. The clean water level sensor 96C can comprise a sensing element or apparatus immersed in fluid within the supply chamber <NUM>, such as an electromechanical switch activated by a float, or one or more capacitive, ultrasonic, conductivity, resistive, or optical sensors configured to monitor fluid level within the supply chamber <NUM>. Other configurations for the clean water level sensor 96C are possible.

The dirty water level sensor 96D can detect the level of dirty water within the recovery tank container <NUM>. The dirty water level sensor 96D can comprise a sensing element or apparatus immersed in fluid within the recovery tank container <NUM>, such as an electromechanical switch activated by a float, or one or more capacitive, ultrasonic, conductivity, resistive, or optical sensors configured to monitor fluid level within the tank container <NUM>. Other configurations for the dirty water level sensor 96D are possible.

The filter sensor 96E can detect when a filter, such as the pre-motor filter <NUM>, needs cleaning and/or replacement. One example of a suitable filter sensor 96E is an airflow sensor that detects a decrease in air velocity through the working air flow path of the apparatus <NUM>. This type of sensor can detect a clogged condition of the filter <NUM>, i.e. when the filter <NUM> becomes so soiled that air flow through the filter <NUM> is inhibited. Another example of a suitable filter sensor 96E is a pressure sensor that detects a drop in pressure in the working air flow path, which also detects a clogged condition of the filter <NUM>. In yet another example, the filter sensor 96E can detect an operating time of the apparatus <NUM>, and be configured to prompt the user to clean or replace the filter <NUM> after a predetermined operating time has elapsed. Other configurations for the filter sensor 96E are possible.

The floor type sensor 96F can detect the type of surface below the base <NUM>, such as carpet, including different carpet pile heights like low carpet pile or high carpet pile, or bare floor such as wood, tile, or linoleum. In one example, the floor type sensor 96F can be provided on the base <NUM>, and can comprise any one or combination of known sensor devices, such as, for example, an ultrasonic transducer, optical, acoustic, or mechanical sensor. Other configurations for the floor type sensor 96F are possible.

The self-cleaning mode sensor <NUM> can detect when the apparatus <NUM> is in a self-cleaning mode, described above. In one example, the self-cleaning mode sensor <NUM> can be a combination of feedback from components, e.g., voltage feedback from the storage tray <NUM> confirming the apparatus <NUM> is docked and a timer that starts after initiation of the self-cleaning mode via the button <NUM>. Other configurations for the self-cleaning mode sensor <NUM> are possible.

<FIG> illustrate one method of operating the proximity-triggered surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. The sequence of steps discussed is for illustrative purposes only and is not meant to limit the method in any way as it is understood that the steps may proceed in a different logical order, additional or intervening steps may be included, or described steps may be divided into multiple steps.

Referring to <FIG>, the area around the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> can include at least one detection zone <NUM>, in which the at least one proximity sensor <NUM> on the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> can detect the presence of a nearby user <NUM> without any physical contact. In one embodiment, the proximity sensor <NUM> can more specifically detect the relative proximity of the user <NUM> to the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>.

Initially, when a user enters the detection zone <NUM>, the proximity sensor <NUM> can detect the user's presence and provide a signal to the controller <NUM>, which can cause at least the HMI <NUM> to illuminate, including at least the SUI power button <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, if the user <NUM> continues to approach the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> and presses the SUI power button <NUM>, the SUI <NUM> can illuminate and can display status information via at least one status indicator <NUM>, such as, but not limited to, battery status, Wi-Fi connection status, clean water level, dirty water level, filter status, floor type, self-cleaning, or any number of other status information, as shown in <FIG>.

When the proximity sensor <NUM> signals the controller <NUM>, the controller <NUM> further can ping onboard sensors, such as sensors 96A-<NUM> described above with reference to <FIG>, to obtain up-to-date status information, which is then displayed via SUI <NUM> if the user presses the SUI power button <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. Alternatively, instead being triggered by user proximity, when the user <NUM> presses the SUI power button <NUM>, the controller <NUM> can ping the onboard sensors to obtain up-to-date status information, which is then displayed by the SUI <NUM>.

Optionally, as shown in <FIG>, at least one of the base <NUM> or the storage tray <NUM> can include at least one light source <NUM> that emits light. For example, as shown herein, the base <NUM> can include at least one light source <NUM> which extends along a front side of the base <NUM>. The light source <NUM> can be in the form of an LED array mounted on a PCB, optionally including at least one light pipe to transmit light across the entire width of the base <NUM>.

The at least one light source <NUM> on the base <NUM> and/or storage tray <NUM> can illuminate based on the user's presence or based on manipulation of the HMI <NUM>. In one example, when the user <NUM> presses the SUI power button <NUM>, the at least one light source <NUM> can illuminate before, after, or simultaneously with the SUI <NUM>. In an alternative example, the at least one light source <NUM> can illuminate when a user enters the detection zone <NUM>. In this case, the proximity sensor <NUM> can detect the user's presence and provide a signal to the controller <NUM>, which can cause at the at least one light source <NUM> to illuminate.

<FIG> illustrate another method of operating the proximity-triggered surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. The sequence of steps discussed is for illustrative purposes only and is not meant to limit the method in any way as it is understood that the steps may proceed in a different logical order, additional or intervening steps may be included, or described steps may be divided into multiple steps.

Referring to <FIG>, the area around the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> can include multiple detection zones <NUM>, <NUM>, in which the at least one proximity sensor <NUM> on the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> can detect the presence of a nearby user <NUM> without any physical contact. In one embodiment, the proximity sensor <NUM> can more specifically detect the relative proximity of the user <NUM> to the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>.

In one example, a first detection zone <NUM> and a second detection zone <NUM> can be located around the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, with the first detection zone <NUM> being further away from the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> (e.g. more than <NUM> feet away, including but not limited to up to - <NUM> feet away) and the second detection zone <NUM> being closer to the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> (e.g. within <NUM> feet).

Initially, when a user enters the first detection zone <NUM>, farthest away from the apparatus <NUM>, the at least one proximity sensor <NUM> can detect the user's presence and provide a signal to the controller <NUM>, which can cause at least the HMI <NUM> to illuminate, as shown in <FIG>. The controller <NUM> further can ping onboard sensors, such as sensors 96A-<NUM> described above with reference to <FIG>, to obtain up-to-date status information.

If the user <NUM> continues to approach the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, which can be determined by the user <NUM> entering the second detection zone <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, closer to the apparatus <NUM>, the brightness of the illumination can increase, and the SUI <NUM> can illuminate and can display status information via at least one status indicator <NUM>, such as, but not limited to, battery status, Wi-Fi connection status, clean water level, dirty water level, filter status, floor type, self-cleaning, or any number of other status information. While not shown in <FIG>, the method can further include proximity-triggered illumination of the base <NUM> and/or storage tray <NUM>, as described above with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a schematic view of a system for an autonomous surface cleaning apparatus according to another aspect of the invention. The system can include an autonomous surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> and a docking station <NUM>. As discussed in further detail below, the autonomous surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> is provided with a proximity-triggered user interface, including one or more status indicators which communicate information regarding the apparatus <NUM> to the user based on the proximity of the user. One example of a suitable autonomous surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> in which the various features and improvements described herein can be used is a deep cleaning robot which mounts the components of various functional systems of the deep cleaner in an autonomously moveable unit or housing <NUM>, including at least a fluid delivery system for storing cleaning fluid and delivering the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned, a fluid recovery system for removing the cleaning fluid and debris from the surface to be cleaned and storing the recovered cleaning fluid and debris. In another embodiment, the autonomous surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> can be a vacuum cleaning robot having a vacuum collection system for removing and collecting debris from the surface to be cleaned.

The deep cleaning robot <NUM> further includes a drive system for autonomously moving the robot <NUM> over the surface to be cleaned. The robot <NUM> can be configured to move randomly about a surface while cleaning the floor surface, using input from various sensors to change direction or adjust its course as needed to avoid obstacles, or, as illustrated herein, can include a navigation/mapping system for guiding the movement of the robot <NUM> over the surface to be cleaned. In one embodiment, the robot <NUM> includes a navigation and path planning system that is operably coupled with the drive system. The system builds and stores a map of the environment in which the autonomous vacuum cleaner <NUM> is used, and plans paths to methodically clean the available area. An artificial barrier system (not shown) can optionally be provided with the robot <NUM> for containing the robot <NUM> within a user-determined boundary.

The deep cleaning robot <NUM> can include at least one user interface through which a user can interact with the deep cleaning robot. The at least one user interface can enable operation and control of the robot <NUM> from the user's end, and can also provide feedback information from the robot <NUM> to the user. The at least one user interface can be electrically coupled with electrical components, including, but not limited to, circuitry electrically connected to various components of the fluid delivery and recovery systems of the robot <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, the robot <NUM> includes a human-machine interface (HMI) <NUM> having one or more input controls, such as but not limited to buttons, triggers, toggles, keys, switches, or the like, operably connected to systems in the robot <NUM> to affect and control its operation. The robot <NUM> also includes a status user interface (SUI) <NUM> having at least one status indicator <NUM> which communicates a condition or status of the robot <NUM> to the user. The at least one status indicator <NUM> can communicate visually and/or audibly. The HMI <NUM> and the SUI <NUM> can be provided as separate interfaces or can be integrated with each other, such as in a composite user interface, graphical user interface, or multimedia user interface. The robot <NUM> can further be provided with a speaker (not shown) for providing audible notifications to the user.

The robot <NUM> can further include a controller <NUM> operably coupled with the various function systems of the robot <NUM> for controlling its operation. The controller <NUM> can be a microcontroller unit (MCU) that contains at least one central processing unit (CPU).

The controller <NUM> is operably coupled with the HMI <NUM> for receiving inputs from a user and with the SUI <NUM> for providing one or more indicia about the status of the robot <NUM> to the user via the at least one status indicator <NUM>, and can further be operably coupled with at least one sensor for receiving input about the environment and can use the sensor input to control the operation of the robot <NUM>. For example, the controller <NUM> can be operably coupled with at least one proximity sensor <NUM> configured to detect the presence of a nearby user without any physical contact. In other words, a user need to physically touch the robot <NUM>, including its housing <NUM>, or the proximity sensor <NUM> for the user's presence to be registered by the controller <NUM>. The at least one proximity sensor <NUM> can comprise any suitable configuration, including electromagnetic, ultrasonic, optical, or acoustic, for example. Examples of suitable proximity sensors include passive infrared (PIR) proximity sensors, microwave proximity sensors, ultrasonic proximity sensors, or photoelectric sensors.

In one example, the at least one proximity sensor <NUM> can be a sensor dedicated to detecting the presence of a nearby user without any physical contact. In another example, the at least one proximity sensor <NUM> can be a distance sensor for position sensing, and can be any sensor useful for providing measurements of distance or indications of proximity, including, but not limited to, infrared sensors, time-of-flight sensors, ultrasonic sensors, light detection and ranging (i.e. lidar) sensors, etc. Input from the distance sensor is used by the controller <NUM> to slow down and/or adjust the course of the robot <NUM> when objects are detected and can also be used to determine the distance to obstacles in front of the robot <NUM>.

The docking station <NUM> can further be connected to a household power supply, such as a wall outlet, and can include a converter for converting the AC voltage into DC voltage for recharging a power supply <NUM> on-board the deep cleaning robot <NUM>, which can be a rechargeable battery or battery pack, such as a lithium ion battery or battery pack. The docking station <NUM> can have charging contacts <NUM>, and corresponding charging contacts <NUM> can be provided on the exterior of the robot <NUM>, such as on the exterior of the housing <NUM>. The docking station <NUM> can optionally include various sensors and emitters for monitoring robot status, enabling auto-docking functionality, communicating with the robot <NUM>, as well as features for network and/or Bluetooth connectivity.

In one embodiment, the charging contacts <NUM> of the robot <NUM> are positioned opposite the sensor <NUM>, such that the sensor <NUM> faces outward when the robot <NUM> is docked at the docking station <NUM> for charging. With this spatial relationship between the charging contacts <NUM> an the at least one sensor <NUM>, when the robot <NUM> is on the docking station, the at least one proximity sensor <NUM>, which can more specifically be at least one distance sensor, and can more specifically be at least one time-of-flight sensor, can detect a change in state in front of the robot <NUM>, i.e. outwardly from the docking station <NUM>, which would indicate a user approaching. The user interface, including at least one of the HMI <NUM>, SUI <NUM>, and/or the status indicator <NUM>, can illumination in reaction to a user's detected approach.

<FIG> is a schematic view of one embodiment of the deep cleaning robot <NUM> of <FIG>. It is noted that the robot <NUM> shown in <FIG> is but one example of a deep cleaning robot <NUM> that is usable with the system of <FIG>.

The fluid delivery system can include a supply tank <NUM> for storing a supply of cleaning fluid and at least one fluid distributor <NUM> in fluid communication with the supply tank <NUM> for depositing a cleaning fluid onto the surface. The cleaning fluid can be a liquid such as water or a cleaning solution specifically formulated for carpet or hard surface cleaning. The fluid distributor <NUM> can be one or more spray nozzles provided on the housing <NUM> of the robot <NUM>. Alternatively, the fluid distributor <NUM> can be a manifold having multiple outlets. A fluid delivery pump <NUM> is provided in the fluid pathway between the supply tank <NUM> and the fluid distributor <NUM> to control the flow of fluid to the fluid distributor <NUM>. Various combinations of optional components can be incorporated into the fluid delivery system as is commonly known in the art, such as a heater for heating the cleaning fluid before it is applied to the surface or one more fluid control and mixing valves.

At least one agitator or brush <NUM> can be provided for agitating the surface to be cleaned onto which fluid has been dispensed. The brush <NUM> can be a brushroll mounted for rotation about a substantially horizontal axis, relative to the surface over which the robot <NUM> moves. A drive assembly including a separate, dedicated brush motor <NUM> can be provided within the robot <NUM> to drive the brush <NUM>. Other embodiments of agitators are also possible, including one or more stationary or non-moving brushes, or one or more brushes that rotate about a substantially vertical axis.

The fluid recovery system can include an extraction path through the robot <NUM> having an extraction or suction nozzle <NUM> which is positioned to confront the surface to be cleaned and defines the air inlet, the recovery tank <NUM> for receiving dirt and liquid removed from the surface for later disposal, and a suction source <NUM> in fluid communication with the suction nozzle <NUM> and the recovery tank <NUM> for generating a working air stream through the extraction path. The suction source <NUM> can include a vacuum motor carried by the robot <NUM>, and can define a portion of the extraction path. The recovery tank <NUM> can also define a portion of the extraction path and can comprise an air/liquid separator for separating liquid from the working airstream. Optionally, a pre-motor filter and/or a post-motor filter (not shown) can be provided as well.

The drive system can include drive wheels <NUM> for driving the robot <NUM> across a surface to be cleaned. The drive wheels <NUM> can be operated by a common drive motor or individual drive motors <NUM> coupled with the drive wheels <NUM> by a transmission, which may include a gear train assembly or another suitable transmission. The drive system can receive inputs from the controller <NUM> for driving the robot <NUM> across a floor, based on inputs from the navigation/mapping system. The drive wheels <NUM> can be driven in a forward or reverse direction in order to move the unit forwardly or rearwardly, and can be operated simultaneously or individually in order to turn the unit in a desired direction.

The controller <NUM> can receive input from the navigation/mapping system for directing the drive system to move the robot <NUM> over the surface to be cleaned. The navigation/mapping system can include a memory <NUM> that stores maps for navigation and inputs from various sensors, which is used to guide the movement of the robot <NUM>. For example, wheel encoders <NUM> can be placed on the drive shafts of the wheel motors <NUM> and are configured to measure the distance travelled. This measurement can be provided as input to the controller <NUM>.

Motor drivers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> can be provided for controlling the pump <NUM>, brush motor <NUM>, vacuum motor <NUM>, and wheel motors <NUM>, respectively, and act as an interface between the controller <NUM> and the components. The motor drivers <NUM>-<NUM> may be an integrated circuit chip (IC). For the wheel motors <NUM>, one motor driver <NUM> can control the motors <NUM> simultaneously. The motor drivers <NUM>-<NUM> can be electrically coupled to a battery management system <NUM>, which includes the rechargeable battery <NUM>.

The controller <NUM> can further be operably coupled with various sensors for receiving input about the environment and can use the sensor input to control the operation of the robot <NUM>. The sensor input can further be stored in the memory <NUM> and/or used to develop maps for navigation. The controller <NUM> can use sensor input to provide one or more indicia about the status of the robot <NUM> to the user via the at least one status indicator <NUM> provided on the SUI <NUM>. In one embodiment, the robot <NUM> can include multiple sensors which can detect events or changes in its environment related to battery status, Wi-Fi connection status, clean water level, dirty water level, floor type, or any number of other status information, and can transmit the information to the controller <NUM>.

In the illustrated example, the robot <NUM> can include a positioning or localization system having one or more sensors determining the position of the robot relative to objects. The localization system can include the at least one distance sensor <NUM> which doubles as a proximity sensor per the above discussion. The at least one distance sensor <NUM> can be mounted to the housing <NUM> of the robot <NUM>, such as in the front of robot <NUM> to determine the distance to obstacles in front of the robot <NUM>. Input from the sensor <NUM> can be used to slow down and/or adjust the course of the robot <NUM> when objects are detected, as well to for the proximity-triggered user interface as described in further detail below.

Some exemplary additional sensors are illustrated in <FIG>, although it is understood that not all sensors shown may be provided, additional sensors not shown may be provided, and that the sensors can be provided in any combination. For example, the robot <NUM> are at least one cliff sensor <NUM> that provide distance feedback so that the robot <NUM> can avoid excessive drops such as stairwells or ledges, at least one bump sensor <NUM> for determining front or side impacts to the robot <NUM>, at least one wall following sensor <NUM> that provides distance feedback so that the robot <NUM> can follow near a wall without contacting the wall, an accelerometer <NUM> which can be a nine-axis gyroscope or accelerometer to sense linear, rotational and magnetic field acceleration, and/or at least one lift-up sensor <NUM> which detect when the robot <NUM> is lifted off the surface to be cleaned, such as when the user picks up the robot <NUM>.

The robot <NUM> can further include at least one floor condition sensor <NUM> for detecting a condition of the surface to be cleaned. For example, the robot <NUM> can be provided with an infrared dirt sensor, a stain sensor, an odor sensor, and/or a wet mess sensor. The floor condition sensor <NUM> provide input to the controller <NUM>, which may direct operation of the robot <NUM> based on the condition of the surface to be cleaned, such as by selecting or modifying a cleaning cycle. The controller <NUM> can also direct the SUI <NUM> to provide a notification to the user, such as via the status indicator <NUM>, of the detected floor condition.

The robot <NUM> can further include a battery sensor <NUM> which can detect the amount of charge left within the battery <NUM>, a Wi-Fi connection sensor <NUM> which can detect whether the robot <NUM> is connected to a Wi-Fi network, a clean water level sensor <NUM> which can detect the level of clean water within the supply tank <NUM>, a dirty water level sensor <NUM> which can detect the level of dirty water within the recovery tank <NUM>, and/or a floor type sensor <NUM> which can detect the type of surface below the robot <NUM>.

While not shown, the robot <NUM> can optionally include one or more sensors for detecting the presence of the supply and recovery tanks <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, one or more pressure sensors for detecting the weight of the tanks <NUM>, <NUM> can be provided. This information is provided as an input to the controller <NUM>, which may prevent operation of the robot <NUM> until the tanks <NUM>, <NUM> are properly installed. The controller <NUM> can also direct the SUI <NUM> to provide a notification to the user, such as via the status indicator <NUM>, that one or both of the tanks <NUM>, <NUM> is missing.

<FIG> illustrate a method of operating the proximity-triggered robot <NUM>. The sequence of steps discussed is for illustrative purposes only and is not meant to limit the method in any way as it is understood that the steps may proceed in a different logical order, additional or intervening steps may be included, or described steps may be divided into multiple steps.

Referring to <FIG>, the area around the robot <NUM>, which is docked at the docking station <NUM> can include at least one detection zone <NUM>, in which the at least one proximity sensor <NUM>, which may be a distance sensor, on the robot <NUM> can detect the presence of a nearby user <NUM> without any physical contact. In one embodiment, the proximity sensor <NUM> can more specifically detect the relative proximity of the user <NUM> to the robot <NUM>.

Initially, when a user enters the detection zone <NUM>, the proximity sensor <NUM> can detect the user's presence and provide a signal to the controller <NUM> (<FIG>), which can cause one or both of the HMI <NUM> or the SUI <NUM> to illuminate, as shown in <FIG>. The controller <NUM> further can ping onboard sensors, such as sensors <NUM>-<NUM> described above with reference to <FIG>, to obtain up-to-date status information. Optionally, the brightness of the illumination can increase or ramp up upon continued approach of the user <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, if the user <NUM> continues to approach the robot <NUM>, the SUI <NUM> can illuminate, if not already illuminated, and can display status information via at least one status indicator <NUM>, such as, but not limited to, battery status, Wi-Fi connection status, clean water level, dirty water level, filter status, floor type, self-cleaning, or any number of other status information.

Optionally, as shown in <FIG>, the docking station <NUM> can include at least one light source <NUM> that emits light. The at least one light source <NUM> on the docking station <NUM> can illuminate based on the user's presence. In one example, the at least one light source <NUM> can illuminate when a user <NUM> enters the detection zone <NUM>, or when the user <NUM> reaches a certain distance from the robot <NUM> within the detection zone <NUM> as determined by the sensor <NUM>.

In an alternative embodiment, one or both of the HMI <NUM> or the SUI <NUM> can illuminate when the proximity sensor <NUM> detects the user <NUM> within the detection zone <NUM>, and the at least one status indicator <NUM> can illuminate and display status information upon a further user action, such as pressing a button on the HMI <NUM> or depressing a bumper of the robot <NUM>, which can be detected by bump sensor <NUM> (<FIG>).

In yet another alternative embodiment, instead of detecting the presence of a nearby user <NUM> without any physical contact, the robot <NUM> can be configured to detect the presence of a user, i.e. "wake up", when a user initiates physical contact with the robot <NUM>. For example, when the robot <NUM> is docked on the docking station <NUM> and charging or otherwise dormant, such as in a "sleep" mode, a user can bump, tap, nudge or lift the robot <NUM> to actuate a sensor, such as the accelerometer <NUM>, bump sensor <NUM>, cliff sensor <NUM>, or lift up sensor <NUM>. The accelerometer <NUM>, bump sensor <NUM>, cliff sensor <NUM>, or lift up sensor <NUM> can provide a signal to the controller <NUM>, which can direct one or both of the HMI <NUM> or the SUI <NUM> to illuminate and display up-to-date status information via the status indicator <NUM>. Thus, because the robot "wakes up" and provides status information in response to contact from a user, the user can avoid inadvertently initiating an unintended mode of operation by actuating the HMI <NUM>.

The above described embodiments provide for a variety of benefits, including improved user interfaces for surface cleaning apparatus. These features, alone or in combination, create a superior user experience. An advantage that may be realized in the practice of some embodiments of the described surface cleaning apparatus with a proximity-triggered user interface is that the user of the apparatus is immediately able to see whether the apparatus is ready for operation, i.e. whether a supply chamber has sufficient solution, a recovery tank needs emptying, a filter needs cleaning, or the battery needs charging, etc. Another advantage that may be realized in the practice of some embodiments of the described surface cleaning apparatus with a proximity-triggered user interface is that a user does not have to bend down or press a button to turn the apparatus on to see status information.

Claim 1:
A surface cleaning apparatus (<NUM>, <NUM>) for cleaning floor surfaces comprising:
a housing (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) adapted for movement across a floor surface to be cleaned;
at least one of:
a fluid delivery system comprising a supply tank assembly (<NUM>) configured store cleaning fluid and a fluid distributor (<NUM>) in fluid communication with the supply tank assembly (<NUM>) and having at least one outlet for applying cleaning fluid to the floor surface to be cleaned; and
a recovery system comprising a suction nozzle (<NUM>), a suction source (<NUM>) in fluid communication with the suction nozzle (<NUM>), and a recovery tank assembly (<NUM>) configured to store cleaning fluid and debris collected from the floor surface to be cleaned;
a controller (<NUM>, <NUM>);
at least one status sensor (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) in communication with the controller (<NUM>, <NUM>) and configured to provide input about a component of the apparatus (<NUM>, <NUM>);
wherein it includes a proximity sensor (<NUM>, <NUM>) operably coupled with the controller (<NUM>, <NUM>) and configured to detect the presence of a user (<NUM>, <NUM>) within at least one detection zone (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) without physical contact of the user with the housing (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) or proximity sensor (<NUM>, <NUM>); and
a user interface (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) configured to receive input from the controller (<NUM>, <NUM>),
characterised in that
the user interface (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is configured to provide at least one indicia to the user (<NUM>, <NUM>) when the user (<NUM>, <NUM>) is detected within the at least one detection zone (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>); and
wherein the at least one indicia is based at least in part on input from the at least one status sensor (<NUM>).