Sensor apparatus and self-propelled floor cleaning appliance having a sensor apparatus

Sensor apparatus, for enabling a self-propelled floor cleaning appliance to detect a down step, comprising:

• first and second transmission units and a reception unit for infrared radiation;
• and
• evaluation electronics for evaluating an intensity of radiation received by the reception unit from the transmission units,
• wherein:
• the second transmission unit is disposed at a distance from a connecting straight line running through the reception unit and the first transmission unit, and
• an optical element for blocking out background radiation is associated with the reception unit.

Self-propelled and self-steering floor cleaning appliance having a chassis and an electrical drive unit with electrical control electronics and two drive wheels mounted on the chassis, wherein the floor cleaning appliance comprises a sensor apparatus being disposed in front of and behind each drive wheel, based on a main direction of movement of the floor cleaning appliance, and coupled to the control electronics for enabling the appliance to detect a down step, the sensor apparatus comprising:

• first and second transmission units and a reception unit for infrared radiation;
• and
• evaluation electronics for evaluating an intensity of radiation received by the reception unit from the transmission units,
• the second transmission unit being disposed at a distance from a connecting straight line running through the reception unit and the first transmission unit,
• wherein infrared radiation which is emitted from the transmission units is directed onto a floor surface that is to be cleaned.