抄録
A new generation of cleaning robots for domotic applications based on all-pneumatic technology is on study; the project deals with three main fields: motion, cleaning and drying. Referring to motion, an innovative design using pneumatic cylinders as structural elements is being tested; the implementation of a control made with digital valves permits to reduce costs, decrease setup times and leads to a unit which can be easily reconfigured for various applications. A recently developed series of vacuum cups allows the unit to stick itself on surfaces even if dirty or wet; innovative design and materials were studied to guarantee a firm grip in extreme conditions such as metal or glass covered by lubricating fluids. The structure used for motion system and the solutions for control the unit are shown. The cleaning system is based on pneumatic motor driving of rotating brushes with water injection between them. The drying system is based on fluidic concepts and driven by compressed air; studies about Coanda effect were carried on trying to extract water directly from wet surface without contact. Computational Fluid Dynamic simulations and experimental tests were carried on to validate the models; comparative analysis about performances and fluid consumption are here presented.
