Debris-targeting autonomous pool cleaning robot
This patent covers a robotic pool cleaner that uses a camera and laser range finder to locate debris on the pool floor and walls, then plots an optimized cleaning path to collect it—rather than wandering randomly or following a fixed pattern. The system's controller processes the camera's visual data to identify where dirt and debris actually are, and directs the cleaner's motor to navigate directly to those spots. Think of it as giving a robot vacuum cleaner the ability to 'see' underwater and clean smarter. The result is faster, more efficient pool cleaning with less wasted movement.
What you could build
A premium autonomous pool cleaning robot with computer vision—sold to residential pool owners and commercial aquatic facilities—that cleans more efficiently than pattern-based competitors like Dolphin or Polaris, justifying a higher price point and enabling subscription-based maintenance services.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia-based pool service franchises, commercial aquatic facility operators (hotels, rec centers), or consumer electronics distributors with a mid-Atlantic retail presence would be natural licensing or distribution partners.
Readiness: Prototype likely
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Alexander Leonessa, Christopher H. Cain, Brian Boothe
- Granted
- July 17, 2018
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 10024073
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.