A self-cleaning method for a surface cleaner

Abstract

The application provides a self-cleaning method of a surface cleaner, comprising the following steps: a docking step: generating a docking signal after a charging interface is docked with a power supply interface; a first cleaning step: in response to the docking signal, starting a cleaning roller to rotate at a first rotating speed, starting a liquid supply pump, and rotating the cleaning roller for a first preset time T1; a dirt suction step: keeping the cleaning roller rotating at a second rotating speed, starting a dirt suction fan, working the dirt suction fan for a second preset time T2, and stopping the dirt suction fan; a second cleaning step: keeping the cleaning roller rotating at a third rotating speed, working the liquid supply pump, and rotating the cleaning roller for a third preset time T3; and a detection step: if a preset condition is not reached, cyclically executing the dirt suction step and the second cleaning step; if the preset condition is reached, keeping the cleaning roller rotating at a fourth rotating speed, starting the dirt suction fan, and working a dirt suction assembly for a fourth preset time T4. The method has the effects of improving the cleaning effect and improving the utilization rate of cleaning liquid.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of cleaning equipment technology, and specifically provides a self-cleaning method for a surface cleaning machine. Background Technology

[0002] Surface cleaners are household tools used to help users clean their rooms. One type of surface cleaner is equipped with a rotating cleaning roller and a suction component. During operation, the surface of the cleaning roller comes into contact with the surface to be cleaned. The cleaning roller then wipes the surface by rotating. The cleaning roller can adhere to some of the dirt on the surface and absorb some of the wastewater. The dirt that is not absorbed by the cleaning roller is sucked up and collected by the suction component, thus cleaning the surface.

[0003] After the surface cleaning machine completes the cleaning work, the user needs to disassemble the cleaning roller for washing, which is not only inconvenient but also poses hygiene problems, resulting in a poor user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address at least one of the aforementioned technical problems, this application provides a self-cleaning method for a surface cleaning machine. The surface cleaning machine includes a cleaning roller, a charging interface, a liquid supply pump, and a suction fan. The surface cleaning machine is equipped with a cleaning dock, which includes a power supply interface and a cleaning tank. The cleaning roller is cleaned within the cleaning tank. The liquid supply pump supplies cleaning liquid to the cleaning roller or the cleaning tank through a spray nozzle. The suction fan removes wastewater generated during cleaning. The self-cleaning method includes the following steps:

[0005] Docking steps: Connect the charging interface to the power supply interface, and generate a docking signal after the docking is in place;

[0006] First cleaning step: In response to the docking signal, start the cleaning roller to rotate at a first speed and start the liquid supply pump until the rotation time of the cleaning roller reaches a first preset time T1;

[0007] Sewage suction step: Keep the cleaning roller rotating at the second speed, start the sewage suction fan, and continue until the working time of the sewage suction fan reaches the second preset time T2, then turn off the sewage suction fan;

[0008] Second cleaning step: Keep the cleaning roller rotating at a third speed and operate the liquid supply pump until the rotation time of the cleaning roller reaches a third preset time T3;

[0009] Detection steps: If the preset conditions are not met, the vacuuming step and the second cleaning step are repeated.

[0010] If the preset conditions are met, the cleaning roller is kept rotating at the fourth speed, and the suction fan is started, so that the suction fan works for a fourth preset time T4.

[0011] Optionally, the surface cleaning machine includes a sludge collection tank, a suction port facing the cleaning roller, and a conveying pipe connecting the suction port and the sludge collection tank. The sludge pump is mounted on the conveying pipe. The detection step further includes:

[0012] If the preset conditions are met, the liquid supply pump will continue to work so that the suction fan will draw the supplied cleaning liquid into the sludge collection tank through the suction port and the delivery pipe to flush the suction port and the delivery pipe.

[0013] Optionally, the water supply rate of the liquid supply pump in the detection step is greater than the water supply rate of the liquid supply pump in the first cleaning step and the second cleaning step.

[0014] Optionally, the first preset time T1 is not less than the third preset time T3.

[0015] Optionally, the docking step further includes:

[0016] In response to the docking signal, the power source of the surface cleaner is converted to the external power supply of the cleaning dock.

[0017] Optionally, in the first cleaning step, the liquid supply pump is started at the same time as the cleaning roller is started; or, in the first cleaning step, the liquid supply pump is started after the cleaning roller is started.

[0018] Optionally, the first rotational speed is not greater than the third rotational speed; or, the third rotational speed is not greater than the second rotational speed.

[0019] Optionally, the fourth rotational speed is not less than the second rotational speed.

[0020] Optionally, during the cleaning process of the cleaning roller,

[0021] The cleaning roller is suspended in the cleaning tank; or, the cleaning tank is provided with cleaning ribs, and the cleaning roller at least partially presses against the cleaning ribs.

[0022] Optionally, the surface cleaning machine is equipped with scraper blades that contact the cleaning roller, and during the rotation of the cleaning roller, the scraper blades scrape away dirt from the cleaning roller.

[0023] Those skilled in the art will understand that the self-cleaning method of the surface cleaning machine described above in this application has at least the following beneficial effects:

[0024] 1. The self-cleaning method of this application involves placing the surface cleaner on a cleaning dock, allowing the cleaning roller to rotate in the cleaning tank of the dock. A liquid supply pump then supplies cleaning fluid to the cleaning roller or the cleaning tank, enabling the cleaning roller to self-clean within the tank using the cleaning fluid. This eliminates the need for manual disassembly of the cleaning roller by the user, making the cleaning process more convenient and hygienic, thus improving the user experience. Furthermore, by connecting the charging port of the surface cleaner to the power supply port of the cleaning dock, a docking signal is generated, allowing the surface cleaner to initiate the self-cleaning process upon receiving the docking signal. This not only makes cleaning more convenient and intelligent but also ensures the safety of the self-cleaning process, preventing confusion between the self-cleaning process and the regular floor cleaning process. Additionally, it eliminates the need for a self-cleaning start button, optimizing the user interface, especially for the small area on the handle where the interface can be optimized.

[0025] In addition, compared to the method of cleaning and vacuuming at the same time, by dividing the process into cleaning and vacuuming steps, the cleaning fluid provided by the liquid supply pump during the cleaning step can be stored in the cleaning tank. On the one hand, this ensures that there is more cleaning fluid in the cleaning tank, which helps to improve the cleaning effect of the cleaning roller; on the other hand, it ensures that the contact time between the cleaning fluid and the cleaning roller is long enough, rather than being sucked away immediately after rinsing the cleaning roller, thereby improving the utilization rate of the cleaning fluid.

[0026] Furthermore, since the cleaning roller is at its dirtiest immediately after cleaning, directly applying the usual cleaning method is insufficient to effectively clean the deep-seated dirt. Therefore, this application incorporates a first cleaning step to pre-treat the newly cleaned roller, allowing the cleaning solution to diffuse into its deep structure. This displaces some of the wastewater absorbed deep within the roller and simultaneously decomposes the deep-seated dirt, thereby improving the cleaning effect on the roller's deeper layers. Additionally, the cleaning pump supplies cleaning solution while the roller rotates, further facilitating its diffusion throughout the entire circumferential deep structure of the cleaning roller.

[0027] 2. By making the liquid supply pump work continuously after reaching the preset conditions, the suction fan will suck the clean cleaning liquid provided by the liquid supply pump into the collection tank after sucking the sewage generated by cleaning into the collection tank. This will allow the clean cleaning liquid to flush the suction port and the conveying pipe, thereby reducing the amount of dirt residue in the suction port and the conveying pipe.

[0028] Furthermore, by making the water supply rate of the liquid supply pump in the detection step greater than that in the first and second cleaning steps, it helps to improve the cleaning efficiency and effect of the suction port and the delivery pipeline.

[0029] 3. By ensuring that the first preset time T1 is not less than the third preset time T3, the pretreatment effect of the cleaning roller can be guaranteed, thereby improving the cleaning effect of the cleaning roller in the subsequent cleaning process.

[0030] 4. By enabling the surface cleaner's power source to be switched to an external power supply from the cleaning dock, the surface cleaner's battery is kept in a non-working state during the cleaning process, thereby improving the battery charging efficiency and preventing the surface cleaner from being unable to clean due to insufficient battery power.

[0031] 5. Starting the cleaning roller and the liquid supply pump simultaneously ensures that the cleaning solution sprayed onto the cleaning roller is more evenly distributed, allowing for uniform wetting and facilitating subsequent cleaning. Starting the cleaning roller first, followed by the liquid supply pump, reduces the starting current and circuit pressure. Furthermore, starting the cleaning roller first helps it to be thoroughly wetted, effectively removing stubborn stains and facilitating subsequent cleaning, especially for stubborn dirt.

[0032] 6. By ensuring the first rotational speed does not exceed the third rotational speed—that is, ensuring the cleaning roller's rotational speed in the first cleaning step does not exceed the speed used in the normal cleaning mode—the cleaning solution can fully wet the cleaning roller and penetrate its deep structure. Maintaining a relatively high rotational speed in the second cleaning step improves the scraping effect on the roller's surface, resulting in a more thorough cleaning. Conversely, ensuring the third rotational speed does not exceed the second rotational speed—that is, ensuring the cleaning roller's rotational speed in the suction step is not lower than the speed used in the normal cleaning mode—enhances the roller's agitation of the wastewater. This allows the roller to quickly pick up heavier deposits for the suction fan, reducing residue after each cleaning step and facilitating dehydration of the cleaning roller.

[0033] 7. By making the fourth rotation speed no less than the second rotation speed, the disturbance effect on the sewage in the cleaning tank can be further enhanced, thereby reducing the dirt remaining in the cleaning tank after the cleaning roller cleaning work is completed. At the same time, it is convenient to dehydrate and spin dry the cleaning roller after cleaning. Attached Figure Description

[0034] The following description refers to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0035] Figure 1 This is an isometric view of the surface cleaning machine and the cleaning dock after docking in this application;

[0036] Figure 2 This is an isometric view of the cleaning dock in this application;

[0037] Figure 3 This is a partial structural diagram of the surface cleaning machine and the cleaning dock after docking in this application;

[0038] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between the flexible floor brush and the cleaning dock in the first embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the main steps of the self-cleaning method of the surface cleaning machine in this application;

[0040] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the self-cleaning method of the surface cleaning machine in the second embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 7 It is the isometric view of the cleaning dock in the sixth embodiment of this application. Figure 1 ;

[0042] Figure 8 It is the isometric view of the cleaning dock in the sixth embodiment of this application. Figure 2 .

[0043] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0044] 1. Surface cleaning machine; 11. Machine body; 111. Suction port; 112. Conveying pipe; 113. Scraper; 12. Handle; 13. Cleaning roller; 14. Clean water tank; 15. Sludge collection tank; 16. Flexible floor brush;

[0045] 2. Cleaning dock; 21. Power supply interface; 22. Cleaning tank; 23. Raised rib. Detailed Implementation

[0046] Those skilled in the art should understand that the embodiments described below are merely a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments of this application. These partial embodiments are intended to explain the technical principles of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Based on the embodiments provided in this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should still fall within the scope of protection of this application.

[0047] It should be noted that in the description of this application, terms such as "center," "upper," "lower," "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," which indicate direction or positional relationships, are based on the direction or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. These are used merely for ease of description and do not indicate or imply that the device or element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation; therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0048] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in the description of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linkage" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can also refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0049] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the surface cleaning machine 1 of this application includes a body 11, a handle 12, a cleaning roller 13, a clean water tank 14, and a sludge collection tank 15. The handle 12 is pivotally connected to the body 11 and is used to control the movement of the surface cleaning machine 1. The cleaning roller 13 is rotatably mounted on the bottom of the body 11 and can contact the surface to be cleaned, wiping the surface by its own rotation. The surface cleaning machine 1 also includes a liquid supply pump (not shown in the figure) and a suction fan (not shown in the figure). The liquid supply pump is connected to the clean water tank 14 through a liquid supply pipe to draw cleaning liquid (clean water, detergent, or a mixture) from the clean water tank 14. The body 11 is provided with a suction port 111 facing the cleaning roller 13. A conveying pipe 112 is provided between the suction port 111 and the sludge collection tank 15, and the suction fan is located at a certain point on the conveying pipe 112. During the cleaning process of the surface cleaning machine, the liquid supply pump can supply the cleaning liquid in the clean water tank 14 to the cleaning roller through the spray nozzle (not shown in the figure) to assist in cleaning. The suction fan can suck up the dirt through the suction port 111 and send it to the collection tank 15 through the conveying pipe 112 for collection.

[0050] Continue to refer to Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the surface cleaning machine 1 is equipped with a cleaning dock 2, which has a power supply interface 21 and a cleaning tank 22. The handle 12 of the surface cleaning machine 1 has a charging interface (not shown in the figure). The surface cleaning machine 1 can be placed on the cleaning dock 2. After being placed in place, the charging interface and the power supply interface 21 are connected together. The cleaning roller 13 is located in the cleaning tank 22. The machine body 11 is also equipped with a scraper 113. The cleaning roller 13 rotates in the cleaning tank 22. The liquid supply pump provides cleaning liquid to the cleaning roller 13 through the water spray nozzle. With the scraping of the scraper 113, the cleaning roller 13 can be self-cleaned. The sewage suction fan can remove the sewage generated during cleaning. A closed partition (not shown in the figure) is also provided between the surface cleaning machine 1 and the cleaning dock 2. The closed partition is located on the rear side of the cleaning roller 13 and forms a liquid collection area with the surface cleaning machine and the cleaning dock to prevent the cleaning liquid from overflowing or splashing to other areas.

[0051] Combination Figure 4 As shown, the self-cleaning method of the surface cleaning machine 1 of this application mainly includes the following steps:

[0052] Docking steps: Connect the charging interface to the power supply interface 21. A docking signal will be generated after the docking is in place.

[0053] First cleaning step: In response to the docking signal, start the cleaning roller 13 to rotate at a first speed and start the liquid supply pump until the rotation time of the cleaning roller 13 reaches a first preset time T1;

[0054] Sewage suction step: Keep the cleaning roller 13 rotating at the second speed, start the sewage suction fan, and continue until the working time of the sewage suction fan reaches the second preset time T2, then turn off the sewage suction fan;

[0055] Second cleaning step: Keep the cleaning roller 13 rotating at the third speed and make the liquid supply pump work until the rotation time of the cleaning roller 13 reaches the third preset time T3.

[0056] Testing steps: If the preset conditions are not met, the vacuuming step and the second cleaning step will be repeated.

[0057] If the preset conditions are met, the cleaning roller 13 is kept rotating at the fourth speed, and the suction fan is started, so that the suction fan works for the fourth preset time T4.

[0058] Those skilled in the art will understand that the self-cleaning method of this application involves placing the surface cleaner 1 on the cleaning dock 2, causing the cleaning roller 13 to rotate in the cleaning tank 22 of the cleaning dock 2, and then supplying cleaning fluid to the cleaning roller 13 by a liquid supply pump. This allows the cleaning roller 13 to self-clean within the cleaning tank 22 using the cleaning fluid, eliminating the need for manual disassembly by the user. This not only makes the cleaning process more convenient but also more hygienic, thereby improving the user experience. Furthermore, by setting a closed baffle between the surface cleaner 1 and the cleaning dock 2, a liquid collection area is formed by the closed baffle and the surface cleaner 1 and the cleaning dock 2. During the cleaning process of the cleaning roller 13, the cleaning fluid supplied to the cleaning roller 13 is blocked by the closed baffle in the liquid collection area, preventing the cleaning fluid from overflowing into other areas of the cleaning dock 2, the bottom surface of the surface cleaner 1, or the ground. Additionally, the liquid thrown out by the rotating cleaning roller 13 is also blocked by the closed baffle, thereby preventing liquid from splashing into other areas of the cleaning dock 2 or the bottom surface of the surface cleaner 1. Furthermore, by connecting the charging port of the surface cleaner 1 and the power supply port 21 of the cleaning dock 2 to generate a docking signal, the surface cleaner 1 can start the self-cleaning process by receiving the docking signal. This not only makes cleaning more convenient and intelligent, but also ensures the safety of the self-cleaning process and avoids confusion between the self-cleaning process and the floor cleaning process. In addition, the self-cleaning start button can be eliminated, the operation interface can be optimized, and the optimization effect of setting up the operation interface in the small area on the handle is better.

[0059] In addition, compared to the method of cleaning and vacuuming simultaneously, by dividing the process into cleaning and vacuuming steps, the cleaning fluid provided by the liquid supply pump during the cleaning step can be stored in the cleaning tank 22. On the one hand, this ensures that there is more cleaning fluid in the cleaning tank 22, which helps to improve the cleaning effect of the cleaning roller 13; on the other hand, it ensures that the contact time between the cleaning fluid and the cleaning roller 13 is long enough, rather than being sucked away immediately after rinsing the cleaning roller 13, thereby improving the utilization rate of the cleaning fluid.

[0060] Furthermore, since the cleaning roller 13 is the dirtiest after cleaning, directly applying the usual cleaning mode would be insufficient to clean the deep-seated dirt. Therefore, this application incorporates a first cleaning step to pre-treat the cleaning roller 13 after cleaning, allowing the cleaning solution to diffuse into the deep structure of the cleaning roller 13. This displaces some of the wastewater absorbed deep within the cleaning roller 13 and simultaneously decomposes the deep-seated dirt, thereby improving the cleaning effect on the deep layers of the cleaning roller 13. Additionally, the cleaning pump supplies cleaning solution while the cleaning roller 13 rotates, facilitating the diffusion of the cleaning solution throughout the entire circumferential deep structure of the cleaning roller.

[0061] It should be noted that the spray nozzle of the liquid supply pump in this application can be directed directly to the cleaning roller, or directly to the surface to be cleaned and the cleaning tank. That is, when cleaning the surface to be cleaned, the cleaning liquid is sprayed directly onto the surface to be cleaned, and when cleaning the cleaning roller, the cleaning liquid is sprayed directly into the cleaning tank.

[0062] The self-cleaning method of the surface cleaning machine of this application will be further described below with reference to several embodiments.

[0063] The first embodiment of this application:

[0064] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the sealing rib is a flexible brush 16 set at the bottom of the surface cleaner 1. The flexible brush 16 is set on the rear side of the suction port 111. After the surface cleaner 1 is placed on the cleaning dock 2, the flexible brush 16 and the cleaning dock 2 are sealed and abutted, thereby forming a liquid collection area on the front side of the flexible brush 16.

[0065] Those skilled in the art will understand that by using a flexible brush 16, located at the bottom of the surface cleaner 1, the structure of the cleaning dock is simplified. Furthermore, the flexible brush 16 can scrape the surface to be cleaned while the surface cleaner 1 is cleaning, improving the cleaning effect. On the other hand, the flexible brush 16 facilitates a sealed contact with the cleaning dock. During the cleaning process of the cleaning roller 13, the cleaning fluid supplied to the cleaning roller 13 is blocked by the sealing rib in the collection area, preventing the cleaning fluid from overflowing into other areas of the cleaning dock 2, the bottom surface of the surface cleaner 1, or the ground. Additionally, the liquid splashed out by the rotating cleaning roller 13 is also blocked by the sealing rib, thus preventing liquid from splashing into other areas of the cleaning dock 2 or the bottom surface of the surface cleaner 1.

[0066] Combination Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the self-cleaning method of the surface cleaning machine in this embodiment includes:

[0067] Docking steps: Connect the charging interface to the power supply interface 21. A docking signal will be generated after the docking is in place.

[0068] Specifically, when the cleaning roller 13 needs to be cleaned, the user places the surface cleaner 1 on the cleaning dock 2. After docking, the cleaning roller 13 is located in the cleaning tank 22 and is suspended in the cleaning tank 22. The flexible brush 16 is sealed and abutted against the cleaning dock 2. The charging interface and the power supply interface 21 are connected together to generate a docking signal.

[0069] One option is to install a current sensor inside the surface cleaning machine. When the charging interface is connected to the power supply interface 21, the circuit is turned on, and the current flows through the current sensor to generate a connection signal. Alternatively, mutually cooperating detection components (such as a magnet and a reed switch, a magnet and a magnetic sensor, etc.) can be installed at the power supply interface 21 and the charging interface respectively. When the charging interface is connected to the power supply interface 21, the detection component at the charging interface is triggered to generate a connection signal.

[0070] In this embodiment, the surface cleaning machine is equipped with a processor and a memory. The memory stores execution instructions for performing the first cleaning step, the suction step, the second cleaning step, and the detection step. After receiving the docking signal, the processor can execute the execution instructions in the memory to enable the surface cleaning machine to perform self-cleaning, thereby realizing program-controlled self-cleaning.

[0071] First cleaning step: In response to the docking signal, start the cleaning roller 13 to rotate at a first speed and start the liquid supply pump until the rotation time of the cleaning roller 13 reaches a first preset time T1.

[0072] Specifically, in response to the docking signal, the processor starts the cleaning roller 13 and simultaneously activates the liquid supply pump. The cleaning roller 13 rotates at a first rotation speed within the cleaning tank 22. The liquid supply pump supplies cleaning liquid from the clean water tank 14 to the cleaning roller 13. Because the flexible brush 16 and the cleaning dock 2 form a liquid collection area through a sealed contact, the cleaning liquid thrown out by the centrifugal force of the rotating cleaning roller 13 is deflected back onto the cleaning roller 13 or the liquid collection area by the flexible brush 16. This prevents waste of cleaning liquid and improves the wetting effect of the cleaning roller 13, making the wetting of the cleaning roller 13 more uniform. When the rotation time of the cleaning roller 13 from the start reaches the first preset time T1, the first cleaning step is determined to be completed.

[0073] Those skilled in the art will understand that this step is a pretreatment step. The cleaning roller 13 is at its dirtiest immediately after cleaning. Directly performing the usual cleaning process would be insufficient to effectively clean the deep-seated dirt on the cleaning roller 13. Therefore, this first cleaning step pre-treats the cleaning roller 13, allowing the cleaning solution to diffuse into its deep structure, displacing some of the wastewater absorbed deep within the roller 13, and simultaneously decomposing the deep-seated dirt. This improves the cleaning effect on the deeper layers of the cleaning roller 13. Furthermore, by simultaneously starting the cleaning roller 13 and the liquid supply pump, and by sealing the flexible brush 16 against the cleaning dock 2, the cleaning solution thrown out by the centrifugal force of the rotating cleaning roller 13 is deflected back onto the cleaning roller 13 or the collection area by the flexible brush 16. This prevents waste of the cleaning solution and improves the wetting effect of the cleaning roller 13, resulting in more uniform wetting. The more evenly sprayed cleaning solution onto the cleaning roller 13 ensures that it is uniformly wetted, facilitating subsequent cleaning.

[0074] The first preset time T1 can be flexibly set according to the size, thickness, and material of the cleaning roller, such as 5 minutes or 7 minutes.

[0075] It should be noted that the liquid supply pump can supply cleaning fluid continuously or intermittently.

[0076] Sewage suction step: Keep the cleaning roller 13 rotating at the second speed, start the sewage suction fan, and continue until the sewage suction fan has been working for the second preset time T2, then turn off the sewage suction fan.

[0077] Specifically, when the cleaning roller 13 rotates for a first preset time T1 during the first cleaning step, or when the preset conditions are not met during the detection step, the suction step begins. The cleaning roller 13 rotates at a second speed, and the suction fan is activated. The suction fan draws the wastewater from the cleaning tank 22 through the suction port 111. The wastewater enters and is stored in the collection tank 15 via the conveying pipe 112. Because the flexible brush 16 forms a liquid collection area by sealing against the cleaning dock 2, the wastewater will not splash onto other areas of the cleaning dock 2, improving the absorption effect of the wastewater. When the suction fan operates for a second preset time T2, the suction fan is turned off.

[0078] The second preset time T2 is set according to the amount of sewage generated in the first cleaning step, so as to suck most (e.g., more than 90%) or all of the sewage into the sewage collection tank 15, for example, set to 6 minutes, 8 minutes, etc.

[0079] Preferably, the liquid supply pump is turned off during the suction step to prevent the cleaning liquid from being sucked away by the suction fan before it is fully utilized.

[0080] It should be noted that the liquid supply pump can also remain operational during the sludge suction step, i.e., continuous or intermittent water supply.

[0081] Second cleaning step: Keep the cleaning roller 13 rotating at the third speed and make the liquid supply pump work until the rotation time of the cleaning roller 13 reaches the third preset time T3.

[0082] Specifically, this step is the normal cleaning mode of the cleaning roller 13. When the suction fan stops in the suction step, the second cleaning step is started, so that the cleaning roller 13 keeps rotating at the third speed, and the liquid supply pump supplies cleaning liquid to the cleaning roller 13. The cleaning roller 13 uses the cleaning liquid and the scraping of the scraper 113 to perform self-cleaning. When the rotation time of the cleaning roller 13 from the start of the suction fan being turned off reaches the third preset time T3, the second cleaning step is determined to be completed.

[0083] Preferably, the first preset time T1 is not less than the third preset time T3, that is, the time for pre-treating the cleaning roller 13 is longer than the time for a normal cleaning mode, which can ensure the pre-treatment effect of the cleaning roller 13 and thus improve the cleaning effect of the cleaning roller 13 in the subsequent cleaning process.

[0084] It should be noted that the first rotational speed of the cleaning roller 13 is lower than the third rotational speed. That is, the cleaning roller 13 rotates at a slower speed in the first cleaning step than in the normal cleaning mode in the second cleaning step. This allows the cleaning liquid to fully wet the cleaning roller 13 and penetrate into the deep structure of the cleaning roller 13 during the pretreatment process. The second cleaning step uses the normal cleaning speed, which can improve the scraping effect on the surface of the cleaning roller 13 and make the cleaning more thorough.

[0085] Furthermore, the third rotation speed of the cleaning roller 13 is less than the second rotation speed, which means that the cleaning roller 13 rotates faster in the suction step than in the normal cleaning mode. This improves the agitation effect of the cleaning roller 13 on the sewage, making it easier for the cleaning roller 13 to quickly roll up the heavier deposits so that they can be sucked away by the suction fan, reducing the amount of dirt residue after a cleaning step, and also facilitating the dehydration of the cleaning roller 13.

[0086] It should be noted that in the implementation method where the liquid supply pump is turned off during the suction step, the liquid supply pump is turned back on after the suction fan stops rotating.

[0087] It should also be noted that when the cleaning roller 13 has been rotating for a period of time from the start of the suction fan being turned off, the liquid supply pump can be turned off or kept on.

[0088] Testing steps: If the preset conditions are not met, the vacuuming step and the second cleaning step will be repeated.

[0089] If the preset conditions are met, the cleaning roller 13 is kept rotating at the fourth speed, and the suction fan is started, so that the suction fan works for the fourth preset time T4.

[0090] Specifically, when the rotation time of the cleaning roller 13 in the second cleaning step reaches the third preset time T3, the detection step is started. If the preset condition is not met, the suction step and the second cleaning step are repeated until the preset condition is met. If the preset condition is met, the cleaning roller 13 is kept rotating at the fourth speed and the suction fan is started. After the suction fan has worked for the fourth preset time T4, all the sewage in the cleaning tank is pumped away, and the self-cleaning work ends.

[0091] The detection method for whether the preset conditions are met can adopt, but is not limited to, the various examples described below:

[0092] Example 1: By presetting the number of rotations required for the cleaning roller 13 during the entire self-cleaning process, the number of rotations of the cleaning roller 13 is collected by the sensor. When the number of rotations of the cleaning roller 13 reaches the pre-set number, it is determined that the preset condition has been met.

[0093] Example 2: By pre-setting the time for the entire self-cleaning process of the cleaning roller 13, the preset condition is determined to be met when the preset total time is reached.

[0094] Example 3: By installing sensors to detect wastewater in the cleaning tank or conveying pipeline, when the liquid in the cleaning tank meets the requirements (such as pH value, ion concentration, etc.), it is determined that the liquid is relatively clean, that is, the cleaning roller has completed cleaning, thus determining that the preset conditions have been met.

[0095] Preferably, the fourth rotational speed of the cleaning roller 13 is greater than the second rotational speed, that is, the rotational speed of the cleaning roller 13 in the final stage is greater than the rotational speed of the cleaning roller 13 in the suction step, thereby achieving a better cleaning effect on the cleaning tank 22, reducing the dirt remaining in the cleaning tank 22 after cleaning, and at the same time, facilitating the dehydration and spin-drying of the cleaning roller 13.

[0096] Those skilled in the art will understand that in this embodiment, the cleaning roller 13 can self-clean using cleaning fluid within the cleaning tank 22, eliminating the need for manual disassembly by the user. This not only makes the cleaning process more convenient but also more hygienic, thereby improving the user experience. Furthermore, by connecting the charging interface of the surface cleaner 1 to the power supply interface 21 of the cleaning dock 2 to generate a docking signal, the surface cleaner 1 can initiate the self-cleaning process upon receiving the docking signal. This not only makes cleaning more convenient and intelligent but also ensures the safety of the self-cleaning process, preventing confusion between the self-cleaning process and the floor cleaning process. In addition, the self-cleaning start button can be omitted, optimizing the operation interface, and the optimization effect of setting up the operation interface in a small area on the handle is better.

[0097] In addition, compared to the method of cleaning and vacuuming simultaneously, by dividing the process into cleaning and vacuuming steps, the cleaning fluid provided by the liquid supply pump during the cleaning step can be stored in the cleaning tank 22. On the one hand, this ensures that there is more cleaning fluid in the cleaning tank 22, which helps to improve the cleaning effect of the cleaning roller 13; on the other hand, it ensures that the contact time between the cleaning fluid and the cleaning roller 13 is long enough, rather than being sucked away immediately after rinsing the cleaning roller 13, thereby improving the utilization rate of the cleaning fluid.

[0098] Correspondingly, by setting a flexible brush 16 on the surface cleaning machine 1, the flexible brush 16, the surface cleaning machine 1, and the cleaning dock 2 form a liquid collection area. On the one hand, during the cleaning and suction steps, it prevents sewage or cleaning fluid from overflowing or splashing into other areas of the cleaning dock 2. On the other hand, during the cleaning step, the cleaning fluid thrown out by the centrifugal force of the rotating cleaning roller 13 is blocked back to the cleaning roller 13 or the liquid collection area by the flexible brush 16, which can prevent the waste of cleaning fluid and improve the wetting effect of the cleaning roller 13, making the wetting of the cleaning roller 13 more uniform. During the suction step, sewage will not splash into other areas of the cleaning dock 2, improving the sewage absorption effect.

[0099] The second embodiment of this application:

[0100] like Figure 6 As shown, unlike the first embodiment, the docking step in this embodiment includes: in response to the docking signal, converting the power source of the surface cleaner to the external power supply of the cleaning dock.

[0101] Specifically, when the charging port of the surface cleaner is connected to the power supply port of the cleaning dock, the cleaning dock charges the battery of the surface cleaner, but the battery does not provide power for the self-cleaning process. Instead, the surface cleaner directly uses external power to perform the self-cleaning process.

[0102] Those skilled in the art will understand that by enabling the power source of the surface cleaner to be switched to an external power supply from the cleaning dock, the battery of the surface cleaner is kept in a non-working state during the cleaning process, thereby improving the battery charging efficiency and preventing the surface cleaner from being unable to clean due to insufficient battery power.

[0103] The third embodiment of this application:

[0104] Although not shown in the figure, unlike the first and second embodiments, the detection steps in this embodiment further include: if the preset conditions are met, the liquid supply pump is made to work continuously so that the suction fan draws the supplied cleaning liquid into the sludge collection tank through the suction port and the delivery pipe to flush the suction port and the delivery pipe.

[0105] Specifically, after the preset conditions are met, the liquid supply pump is activated. The suction fan draws the original sewage from the cleaning tank into the collection tank, and then draws in the clean cleaning liquid supplied by the liquid supply pump. The clean cleaning liquid is then used to flush the suction port and the conveying pipe, thereby reducing the amount of dirt remaining in the suction port and the conveying pipe.

[0106] It should be noted that in the implementation where the liquid supply pump is turned off after the second cleaning step, the liquid supply pump will be turned back on after the preset conditions are met.

[0107] In a preferred embodiment of this example, the water supply rate of the liquid supply pump in the detection step is greater than the water supply rate of the liquid supply pump in the first cleaning step and the second cleaning step, so that more clean cleaning liquid flows through the suction port and the delivery pipe, which helps to improve the cleaning efficiency and cleaning effect of the suction port and the delivery pipe.

[0108] The fourth embodiment of this application:

[0109] Although not shown in the figure, unlike the first, second, and third embodiments, in the first cleaning step of this embodiment, the cleaning roller and the liquid supply pump are not started simultaneously. Instead, the cleaning roller is started first, and the liquid supply pump is started after a period of time. By starting the cleaning roller first and then the liquid supply pump, the starting current and circuit pressure can be reduced. At the same time, allowing the cleaning roller to rotate first helps to fully wet the cleaning roller, so as to thoroughly wet stubborn stains, which is convenient for subsequent cleaning, especially for cleaning stubborn stains. Furthermore, the flexible brush 16 can deflect the cleaning liquid back to the cleaning roller 13 or the liquid collection area, which can prevent the cleaning liquid from being wasted and improve the wetting effect of the cleaning roller 13, making the wetting of the cleaning roller 13 more uniform.

[0110] In addition, unlike the first embodiment, the first, second and third rotational speeds of the cleaning roller in this embodiment are the same, and the fourth rotational speed is greater than the second rotational speed.

[0111] The fifth embodiment of this application:

[0112] Although not shown in the figure, unlike the first embodiment, the cleaning tank of this embodiment is provided with cleaning ribs, and the cleaning roller presses against the cleaning ribs at least partially.

[0113] The sixth embodiment of this application:

[0114] Reference Figure 7 As shown, unlike the previous embodiment, the sealing rib in this embodiment is a raised rib 23 set on the cleaning dock 2 and set on the edge of the cleaning tank 22. When the surface cleaning machine is placed on the cleaning dock, the top of the raised rib 23 and the bottom of the surface cleaning machine are sealed and abutted, thereby forming a liquid collection area.

[0115] like Figure 8 As shown, in another embodiment of this invention, the raised rib 23 can be a certain distance from the edge of the cleaning tank 22, which can further expand the range of the liquid collection area.

[0116] Those skilled in the art will understand that by providing raised ribs 23 on the cleaning dock 2, the raised ribs 23, the surface cleaning machine 1, and the cleaning dock 2 form a liquid collection area. On the one hand, during the cleaning and suction steps, it prevents sewage or cleaning fluid from overflowing or splashing into other areas of the cleaning dock 2. On the other hand, during the cleaning step, the cleaning fluid thrown out by the centrifugal force of the rotating cleaning roller 13 will be blocked back to the cleaning roller 13 or the liquid collection area by the raised ribs 23, which can prevent the waste of cleaning fluid and improve the wetting effect of the cleaning roller 13, making the cleaning roller 13 more evenly wetted. During the suction step, sewage will not splash into other areas of the cleaning dock 2, thus improving the sewage absorption effect.

[0117] It should be noted that, based on the raised ribs 23 set on the cleaning dock, the surface cleaning machine can still be equipped with a flexible brush.

[0118] The technical solutions of this application have been described in conjunction with the preceding embodiments. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the scope of protection of this application is not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the technical principles of this application, those skilled in the art can disassemble and combine the technical solutions in the above embodiments, and can also make equivalent changes or substitutions to the relevant technical features. Any changes, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the technical concept and / or technical principles of this application will fall within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A self-cleaning method for a surface cleaning machine, characterized in that, The surface cleaning machine includes a cleaning roller, a charging interface, a liquid supply pump, and a suction fan. The surface cleaning machine is equipped with a cleaning dock, which includes a power supply interface and a cleaning tank. The cleaning roller is cleaned within the cleaning tank. The liquid supply pump supplies cleaning liquid to the cleaning roller or the cleaning tank through a spray nozzle. The suction fan removes wastewater generated during cleaning. The self-cleaning method includes the following steps: Docking steps: Connect the charging interface to the power supply interface, and generate a docking signal after the docking is in place; First cleaning pretreatment step: In response to the docking signal, the cleaning roller is started to rotate at a first speed, and the liquid supply pump is started until the rotation time of the cleaning roller reaches a first preset time T1, at which point the first cleaning pretreatment step is determined to be completed; wherein, the first cleaning pretreatment step pretreatments the cleaning roller, causing the cleaning liquid supplied by the liquid supply pump to diffuse into the deep structure of the cleaning roller, displacing a portion of the wastewater absorbed deep within the cleaning roller; after pretreatment of the cleaning roller, the following is performed: Sewage suction step: Keep the cleaning roller rotating at the second speed, start the sewage suction fan, and continue until the working time of the sewage suction fan reaches the second preset time T2, then turn off the sewage suction fan; Second cleaning step: Keep the cleaning roller rotating at a third speed and operate the liquid supply pump until the rotation time of the cleaning roller reaches a third preset time T3; wherein, the first preset time T1 is not less than the third preset time T3, and the first speed is not greater than the third speed. Detection steps: If the preset conditions are not met, the suction step and the second cleaning step are executed repeatedly; if the preset conditions are met, the cleaning roller is kept rotating at the fourth speed, the suction fan is started, and the suction fan is made to work for a fourth preset time T4; wherein, the preset conditions include the number of rotations required for the cleaning roller to complete the self-cleaning process or the total time of the cleaning roller's entire self-cleaning process.

2. The self-cleaning method of the surface cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surface cleaning machine includes a sludge collection tank, a sludge suction port facing the cleaning roller, and a conveying pipe connecting the sludge suction port and the sludge collection tank. The sludge suction fan is mounted on the conveying pipe. The detection step further includes: If the preset conditions are met, the liquid supply pump will continue to work so that the suction fan will draw the supplied cleaning liquid into the sludge collection tank through the suction port and the delivery pipe to flush the suction port and the delivery pipe.

3. The self-cleaning method of the surface cleaning machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The water supply rate of the liquid supply pump in the detection step is greater than the water supply rate of the liquid supply pump in the first cleaning pretreatment step and the second cleaning step.

4. The self-cleaning method of the surface cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The docking step also includes: In response to the docking signal, the power source of the surface cleaner is converted to the external power supply of the cleaning dock.

5. The self-cleaning method of the surface cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the first cleaning pretreatment step, the liquid supply pump is started at the same time as the cleaning roller is started; or, in the first cleaning pretreatment step, the liquid supply pump is started after the cleaning roller is started.

6. The self-cleaning method of the surface cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The third rotational speed is not greater than the second rotational speed.

7. The self-cleaning method of the surface cleaning machine according to claim 1 or 6, characterized in that, The fourth rotational speed is not less than the second rotational speed.

8. The self-cleaning method of the surface cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, During the cleaning process of the cleaning roller, the cleaning roller is suspended in the cleaning tank; or, the cleaning tank is provided with cleaning ribs, and the cleaning roller at least partially presses against the cleaning ribs.

9. The self-cleaning method of the surface cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surface cleaning machine is equipped with a scraper that contacts the cleaning roller. During the rotation of the cleaning roller, the scraper removes dirt from the cleaning roller.

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