US Patent 7101475 Autonomously navigating solar swimming pool skimmer

An autonomously navigating solar swimming pool skimmer employing a forward impeller, navigation being improved by the use of forward mounted powered horizontal bumper wheels as deflectors, combined with occasional reversals of paddlewheels and bumper wheels to clear clogs and navigate away from obstacles. Further improvements include corrosion inhibiting enclosures for motor and electronics, disposable filter media, pool intrusion alarm, an alarm to warn of debris clogs and stuck positions, floatation trim adjustments, debris backwash prevention, electronic control circuitry, intermittent operation during the night, and thrust enhancing features.