Dust collector

Abstract

The vacuum cleaner according to the present disclosure comprises: a vacuum cleaner body having a suction source therein for generating a suction force for sucking dust; a suction nozzle housing configured to form a suction space having an opening so as to suck dust on the basis of a suction force of a suction source, and configured to be movable on a floor surface; the liquid storage part is used for storing liquid; a mist generation unit that generates mist from the liquid in the liquid storage unit; and a mist adjustment unit that adjusts the amount of mist generated from the mist generation unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a vacuum cleaner that sucks up dust and expels mist. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses Figure 24 The vacuum cleaner 300 shown includes: a vacuum cleaner body 310 with a built-in suction source 311 that generates suction force for sucking up dust; a suction tube 320 extending from the vacuum cleaner body 310; and a nozzle 330 mounted at the distal end of the suction tube 320 and movable on the ground. The nozzle 330 forms a suction space with an opening to suck up dust based on the suction force of the suction source 311. A mist generating unit 340 for generating mist is mounted on the upper side of the nozzle 330.

[0003] like Figure 25 As shown, the mist generating unit 340 includes a water storage section 341 for storing water and an ultrasonic generator 342 housed within the water storage section 341. The water storage section 341 has a volume sufficient to completely submerge the ultrasonic generator 342 in water and to provide space above the ultrasonic generator 342 to form a water column. Furthermore, an outlet 343 is formed in the water storage section 341 to communicate with the outside of the water storage section 341.

[0004] If the ultrasonic generator 342 generates ultrasonic waves, a water column rises in the space above the ultrasonic generator 342. Fine water droplets (mist) are released from this water column and discharged to the outside of the water storage unit 341 through the outlet 343. The fine water droplets discharged through the outlet 343 fall to the periphery of the suction nozzle 330 due to gravity. Dust suspended in the air adheres to the water droplets during their fall to the ground and falls to the ground along with them. Furthermore, the ground is moistened by the falling water droplets, reducing the amount of dust stirred up from the ground. As a result, the amount of dust that can be sucked up by the vacuum cleaner 300 increases.

[0005] While the fog-generating technology in Patent Document 1 can produce fog, it cannot increase or decrease the amount of fog generated. Therefore, for example, when a user cleans in an environment with a lot of airborne dust, the amount of fog produced may be too little compared to the amount of airborne dust. Conversely, if too much fog is generated, the ground may remain wet for an extended period after cleaning.

[0006] Existing technical documents

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 5239730 Summary of the Invention

[0009] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a vacuum cleaner capable of adjusting the amount of mist generated.

[0010] The vacuum cleaner disclosed herein includes: a suction source that generates suction force for suctioning dust; a nozzle housing configured to form a suction space with an opening so as to suck in dust based on the suction force of the suction source, and configured to be movable on the ground; a liquid reservoir for storing liquid; a mist generating unit for generating mist from the liquid in the liquid reservoir; and a mist adjusting unit for adjusting the amount of mist generated by the mist generating unit. The mist generating unit has a vibrating diaphragm configured to cover the opening provided in the liquid reservoir, and a vibration generating unit for vibrating the vibrating diaphragm to cause the liquid in the liquid reservoir to flow. A plurality of discharge holes are formed on the vibrating diaphragm, the discharge holes having a size that prevents liquid from passing through when the vibrating diaphragm is stationary, but allows liquid to pass through when the vibrating diaphragm vibrates and discharges mist to the periphery of the nozzle housing. The mist adjusting unit is configured to adjust the amount of mist discharged outside the liquid reservoir by changing the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm, the mist being formed by the liquid passing through the plurality of discharge holes.

[0011] Another vacuum cleaner disclosed herein includes: a suction source that generates suction force for suctioning dust; a nozzle having a nozzle housing and a brush roller, the nozzle housing being configured to form a suction space with an opening so as to suck in dust based on the suction force of the suction source, and being configured to be movable on the ground, the brush roller being disposed within the suction space and held by the nozzle housing in a manner that allows rotation when in contact with the ground; a liquid reservoir for storing liquid; a mist generating unit for generating mist from the liquid in the liquid reservoir; and a mist adjusting unit for adjusting the amount of mist generated by the mist generating unit. The mist generating unit has a vibrating diaphragm configured to cover the opening provided in the liquid reservoir, and a vibration generating unit for vibrating the vibrating diaphragm to cause the liquid in the liquid reservoir to flow. A plurality of discharge holes are formed on the vibrating diaphragm, the discharge holes being of a size that prevents liquid from passing through when the vibrating diaphragm is stationary, but allows liquid to pass through and discharges mist into the suction space when the vibrating diaphragm vibrates. The mist adjustment unit is configured to adjust the amount of mist discharged to the liquid storage unit by changing the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm. The mist is composed of liquid passing through multiple discharge holes.

[0012] The vacuum cleaners described above can adjust the amount of mist generated. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a simplified perspective view of a vacuum cleaner (first embodiment).

[0014] Figure 2 It is a 3D diagram of a vacuum cleaner nozzle.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the suction nozzle.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a 3D view of the nozzle unfolded.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the liquid reservoir mounted on the nozzle.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a front view of the vibrating diaphragm and piezoelectric element installed in the liquid reservoir.

[0019] Figure 7 It's a 3D image of the suction nozzle.

[0020] Figure 8 It is a circuit diagram used to apply AC voltage to piezoelectric elements.

[0021] Figure 9 This is a flowchart showing the steps involved in determining the magnitude of the AC voltage.

[0022] Figure 10 This is a flowchart showing the steps involved in determining the magnitude of the AC voltage.

[0023] Figure 11 It is a 3D diagram of a vacuum cleaner nozzle.

[0024] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps for determining the magnitude of the AC voltage (Second Embodiment).

[0025] Figure 13 This is a three-dimensional view of the suction nozzle (third embodiment).

[0026] Figure 14 It is a circuit diagram used to apply AC voltage to piezoelectric elements.

[0027] Figure 15 This is a flowchart showing the steps involved in determining the magnitude of the AC voltage.

[0028] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of the liquid storage section (4th embodiment).

[0029] Figure 17 It is a circuit diagram used to apply AC voltage to piezoelectric elements.

[0030] Figure 18 This is a flowchart showing the steps involved in determining the magnitude of the AC voltage.

[0031] Figure 19 This is a three-dimensional view of the suction nozzle (5th embodiment).

[0032] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view of the liquid storage section.

[0033] Figure 21It is a circuit diagram used to apply AC voltage to piezoelectric elements.

[0034] Figure 22 This is a bottom view of the suction nozzle.

[0035] Figure 23 It is a circuit diagram used to apply AC voltage to piezoelectric elements.

[0036] Figure 24 This is a cross-sectional view of a traditional vacuum cleaner.

[0037] Figure 25 This is a cross-sectional view of the liquid reservoir section installed in a conventional vacuum cleaner. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Hereinafter, embodiments of the vacuum cleaner will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. To facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art, detailed descriptions of well-known facts or repetitive descriptions of substantially the same configurations may be omitted. Furthermore, the drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0039] <First Implementation>

[0040] Figure 1 This is a 3D diagram of a stick vacuum cleaner (model 100). (Refer to...) Figure 1 Let's explain vacuum cleaner 100.

[0041] The vacuum cleaner 100 includes: a vacuum cleaner body 110; a dust collection section 120 disposed on the lower side of the vacuum cleaner body 110 for storing dust; and a suction tube 130 adjacent to the dust collection section 120, which extends downward from the lower side of the vacuum cleaner body 110. Furthermore, a rod-shaped grip section 140, thick enough for a user to hold, extends from the upper side of the vacuum cleaner body 110, and an operation section 141 for user operation is provided on the outer periphery of the grip section 140.

[0042] The vacuum cleaner body 110 has a built-in suction source 111 that generates suction force for vacuuming dust. The suction source 111 is configured to draw air from a dust collection section 120 located on the lower side of the vacuum cleaner body 110. The suction source 111 is activated or deactivated based on the user's operation of the control unit 141.

[0043] The dust collection section 120 is a cylindrical container for storing dust, and a filter (not shown) is provided at the top of the dust collection section 120. The filter is configured to allow air to pass through while capturing the dust contained in the air. Therefore, even if the air in the dust collection section 120 is sucked out by the suction source 111, the dust in the dust collection section 120 can be prevented from flowing into the vacuum cleaner body 110.

[0044] An inlet (not shown) is formed on the peripheral wall of the dust storage section 120, which connects the flow channel of the suction pipe 130 to the internal space of the dust storage section 120. The inlet is configured to cause the air flowing from the suction pipe 130 into the dust storage section 120 to swirl along the inner side of the peripheral wall of the dust storage section 120. The dust contained in the air flowing from the suction pipe 130 into the dust storage section 120 is centrifugally separated based on the swirling flow within the dust storage section 120 and stored within the dust storage section 120.

[0045] The nozzle 150 is connected to the distal end of the suction tube 130, allowing the user to move the nozzle 150 forward or backward on the ground. Figure 2 As shown, the suction nozzle 150 has a suction nozzle housing 151 that is wider than the suction tube 130, and brush rollers 161 and 162 disposed within the suction nozzle housing 151. The suction nozzle housing 151 has a box-shaped rear housing portion 153 that is longer in the left-right direction, a left housing portion 154 that protrudes forward from the left end of the rear housing portion 153, and a right housing portion 155 that protrudes forward from the right end of the rear housing portion 153. Furthermore, as... Figure 1 As shown, the nozzle housing 151 also has a front housing portion 156 extending in the left-right direction on the front side of the rear housing portion 153, and a housing cover 152 that closes the lower space at the front end of the front housing portion 156. The front housing portion 156 is connected to the upper part of the left housing portion 154 and the right housing portion 155.

[0046] The rear housing portion 153 is configured such that its central portion in the left-right direction can be connected to the suction tube 130. For example... Figure 3 As shown, a connecting channel 157 extending forward from the distal end of the suction tube 130 is formed inside the rear housing portion 153.

[0047] A suction space 158, divided by the rear housing portion 153, left housing portion 154, right housing portion 155, front housing portion 156, and housing cover 152, is formed in front of the rear housing portion 153. At the rear of the suction space 158, the front end of the connecting channel 157 opens forward, and the suction space 158 communicates with the flow channel of the suction pipe 130 via the connecting channel 157. Therefore, the suction force of the suction source 111 acts on the suction space 158 through the dust storage portion 120, the suction pipe 130, and the connecting channel 157. Figure 2 As shown, the suction space 158 opens downwards. If the suction force of the suction source 111 acts on the suction space 158, the dust located below the suction space 158 will be sucked into the suction space 158. Thereafter, the dust flows in the connecting channel 157 and the suction pipe 130, and flows into the dust storage section 120.

[0048] Brush rollers 161 and 162 are arranged lateralally within the suction space 158. The left brush roller 161 is rotatably supported on one side by the left housing portion 154. Similarly, the right brush roller 162 is rotatably supported on one side by the right housing portion 155. Furthermore, two drive motors (not shown) for rotating and driving the brush rollers 161 and 162 are built into the rear housing portion 153. These drive motors are activated or deactivated based on user operation of the operating unit 141.

[0049] Brush rollers 161 and 162 each have: a roller body 163, rotatably held by a suction nozzle housing 151, and tapering towards its distal end; and a brush 164, protruding from the outer peripheral surface of the roller body 163 and in contact with the ground. The brush 164 is formed of a hydrophilic fibrous material (e.g., nylon-based resin fibers (PA6 or PA66), or polyethylene terephthalate (PET)), which is configured to form multiple spiral bands on the outer peripheral surface of the roller body 163. When brush rollers 161 and 162 are rotated, the brush 164 rubs against the ground, sweeping away dust.

[0050] The brush 164 has a rigidity sufficient to support the front portion of the nozzle housing 151 in a suspended state relative to the ground. To support the rear portion of the nozzle housing 151 in a suspended state relative to the ground and to assist the nozzle housing 151 in moving along the front-back direction on the ground, rollers 165 and 166 are provided at the bottom of the rear housing portion 153. Since the nozzle housing 151 is supported in a suspended state relative to the ground based on the brush rollers 161 and 162 and the rollers 165 and 166, the nozzle housing 151 itself does not rub against the ground.

[0051] like Figure 4 As shown, a receiving recess 171 is formed approximately at the center of the rear housing portion 153 in the left-right direction, extending from the upper side of the rear housing portion 153. (See diagram) Figure 3 As shown, the receiving recess 171 is located above the connecting channel 157. The front end of the receiving recess 171 is divided by the front housing portion 156. A discharge channel 172 is formed approximately at the center of the front housing portion 156 in the left-right direction. The discharge channel 172 opens obliquely downward from the receiving recess 171. The opening area of ​​the discharge channel 172 increases as it approaches the front end of the suction nozzle 150.

[0052] A generally rectangular, box-shaped liquid storage section 180 for storing water is housed in the receiving recess 171. When the liquid storage section 180 is housed in the receiving recess 171, as... Figure 1 As shown, the upper side surface of the liquid reservoir 180 is substantially flush with the upper side surface of the rear housing 153. Since the liquid reservoir 180 is housed in the receiving recess 171 formed in the rear housing 153, it is positioned rearward relative to the front end of the suction nozzle 150 formed by the front housing 156 and the housing cover 152.

[0053] like Figure 5 As shown, an opening 181 is formed on the front wall of the liquid storage section 180 to allow water to flow out of the liquid storage section 180. A locking ring 183 protrudes from the front side of the front wall of the liquid storage section 180, as shown... Figure 3 As shown, the engaging ring 183 is inserted into the rear end of the discharge passage 172 of the front housing portion 156. The opening 181 extends obliquely upward from the engaging ring 183 toward the inside (i.e., rear) of the liquid storage portion 180.

[0054] To atomize the water in the reservoir 180 and discharge it to the front of the nozzle 150, a mist generating section 190 is provided in the nozzle 150. The mist generating section 190 includes: a vibrating diaphragm 191, which is provided to cover the opening 181 of the reservoir 180; and a vibration generating section 193, which surrounds the vibrating diaphragm 191 circumferentially and has an annular piezoelectric element 192 connected to the vibrating diaphragm 191. The vibrating diaphragm 191 is tilted forward in relation to the inclination of the opening 181.

[0055] The piezoelectric element 192 is configured to expand and contract radially when an alternating voltage is applied. The greater the amplitude of the applied alternating voltage, the greater the expansion and contraction of the piezoelectric element 192. The diaphragm 191 is configured to be able to expand and contract radially along the axial direction of the opening 181 (i.e.,...). Figure 5 Vibration (in the direction of arrows A and B).

[0056] like Figure 6 As shown, a plurality of discharge holes 194 are formed on the vibrating diaphragm 191. Since the vibrating diaphragm 191 is in a forward-leaning posture, these discharge holes 194 penetrate the vibrating diaphragm 191 from its inner side (the side facing the internal space of the liquid storage section 130) forward and diagonally downward. Furthermore, the discharge holes 194 are sized to prevent water from passing through the liquid storage section 180 when the vibrating diaphragm 191 is stationary.

[0057] It is believed that the vibration of the diaphragm 191 will generate fog as follows: That is, if the central portion of the diaphragm 191 moves along... Figure 5The membrane vibrates in the direction of arrow B (outwards from the reservoir 180), causing a pressure drop near the inner surface of the vibrating membrane 191. Water near the inner surface of the vibrating membrane 191 flows towards the displaced membrane 191 in response to this pressure drop. Subsequently, if the central portion of the vibrating membrane 191 displaces in the opposite direction (inwards from the reservoir 180), the direction of displacement of the central portion of the vibrating membrane 191 becomes opposite to the flow direction of the water near the inner surface of the vibrating membrane 191. As a result, water strongly impacts the inner surface of the vibrating membrane 191 and passes through multiple discharge holes 194 of the vibrating membrane 191. The water passing through these discharge holes 194 becomes mist, which expands radially while moving within the discharge channel 172 of the front housing portion 156, and is discharged from the front end of the discharge channel 172 to the area in front of the nozzle 150.

[0058] In order to apply an alternating voltage to the piezoelectric element 192, such as Figure 6 As shown, a pair of electrodes 195 and 196 are mounted on the piezoelectric element 192, and electric field lines 197 and 198 extend from these electrodes 195 and 196. Figure 4 As shown, the ends of the power lines 197 and 198 are connected to electrodes 211 and 212 that are mounted on the front side of the front wall of the liquid storage section 180.

[0059] In order to apply an alternating voltage to these electrodes 211, 212, such as Figure 7 As shown, electrodes 213 and 214 are provided on the front surface of the front end of the receiving recess 171 in the front housing portion 156. Electrodes 213 and 214 are positioned to contact electrodes 211 and 212 on the side of the liquid reservoir 180 when the liquid reservoir 180 is received in the receiving recess 171. Furthermore, a voltage application unit 215 that applies an alternating current voltage to these electrodes 213 and 214, and a mist adjustment unit 218 configured to indicate the magnitude of the alternating current voltage applied to the electrodes 213 and 214 to the voltage application unit 215, are disposed within the rear housing portion 153. An information acquisition unit 219 that acquires humidity information indicating the indoor humidity is mounted on the nozzle 150. Furthermore, the information acquisition unit 219 may be a humidity sensor that detects the indoor humidity and outputs a signal indicating the detected humidity.

[0060] The voltage application unit 215 is configured such that when the operation unit 141 for activating the suction source 111 is operated, an AC voltage with a frequency close to or equal to the resonant frequency of the vibrating diaphragm 191 is applied to the electrodes 213 and 214. Since the electrodes 213 and 214 are connected to the electrodes 211 and 212 when the liquid reservoir 180 is housed in the receiving recess 171, the AC voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element 192 through the electrodes 211 and 212, the electric field lines 197 and 198, and the electrodes 195 and 196.

[0061] The fog adjustment unit 218 is provided to adjust the amount of fog generated from the fog generating unit 190 to a value suitable for the ambient air humidity. It is configured to set the magnitude of the AC voltage output from the voltage application unit 215 based on the humidity detected by the information acquisition unit 219. The voltage application unit 215 is configured to output an AC voltage set by the fog adjustment unit 218 when the operation unit 141 is operated. Figure 8 As shown, the information acquisition unit 219, the fog adjustment unit 218, the voltage application unit 215 and the piezoelectric element 192 are electrically connected, and the AC voltage output by the voltage application unit 215 is applied to the piezoelectric element 192.

[0062] (Instructions for using a vacuum cleaner)

[0063] When the user operates the operating unit 141, the suction source 111 generates a suction force, thereby drawing out the air from the dust storage section 120. The suction force of the suction source 111 acts on the suction space 158 through the connecting channel 157 of the dust storage section 120, the suction pipe 130, and the nozzle 150. At this time, the brush rollers 161 and 162 in the suction space 158 are driven to rotate in response to the operation of the operating unit 141, thus sweeping up the dust on the ground. The dust swept up by the brush rollers 161 and 162 is drawn out from the suction space 158 by the suction force of the suction source 111 and flows into the dust storage section 120 through the connecting channel 157 and the suction pipe 130. In the dust storage section 120, a vortex is generated based on the air drawn in along with the dust, thus the dust flowing into the dust storage section 120 is centrifugally separated by the vortex and stored in the dust storage section 120.

[0064] During the process of dust being drawn in by the suction force of the suction source 111 as described above, the water in the reservoir 180 is discharged as mist to the area in front of the nozzle 150. Although the mist falls to the front of the nozzle 150 through the discharge channel 172, it is able to capture dust suspended in the air. Subsequently, the mist adheres to the ground. Because the mist adheres to the ground, the dust on the ground becomes less likely to fly around. As a result, when the nozzle 150 moves over the ground with the mist attached, more dust can be sucked into the vacuum cleaner 100 than when no mist is discharged.

[0065] As mentioned above, mist can increase the amount of dust sucked into the vacuum cleaner 100. However, if the indoor humidity is high during cleaning, mist may remain on the floor for an extended period after cleaning. That is, the floor may remain wet for a long time. To avoid this, according to... Figure 9 It is advisable to adjust the amount of fog generation using the steps shown.

[0066] When the user operates the operation unit 141 to activate the suction source 111, the information acquisition unit 219 detects the humidity of the room where the cleaning operation is being performed and outputs humidity information indicating the detected humidity to the mist adjustment unit 218 (step S110). The mist adjustment unit 218 determines whether the humidity indicated by the humidity information is higher than a specified upper limit threshold (step S120). If the humidity indicated by the humidity information is not higher than the upper limit threshold (step S120: "No"), the mist adjustment unit 218 decides to set the magnitude of the AC voltage to a specified normal value (step S130). Furthermore, the voltage application unit 215 outputs an AC voltage having the magnitude of the normal value set by the mist adjustment unit 218.

[0067] The alternating current voltage output from the voltage application unit 215 is applied to the electrodes 213 and 214 provided on the receiving recess 171. Since the electrodes 213 and 214 are in contact with the electrodes 211 and 212 provided on the liquid reservoir 180, the alternating current voltage output from the voltage application unit 215 is applied to the electrodes 211 and 212. Furthermore, this alternating current voltage is output to the electrodes 195 and 196 mounted on the piezoelectric element 192 via the electric field lines 197 and 198. As a result, the piezoelectric element 192 extends and retracts radially.

[0068] Since the frequency of the AC voltage applied to the piezoelectric element 192 is close to or equal to the resonant frequency of the diaphragm 191, the frequency of the expansion and contraction of the piezoelectric element 192 is also close to or equal to the resonant frequency of the diaphragm 191. In this state, the central portion of the diaphragm 191 vibrates in a manner that displaces and flexes significantly in the directions of arrows A and B, as described below (i.e., the diaphragm 191 is in a resonant state).

[0069] If the piezoelectric element 192 contracts radially, the diaphragm 191 may become a radial... Figure 5 The piezoelectric element 192 is bent in the direction of arrow B. Furthermore, if the piezoelectric element 192 expands radially, the central portion of the diaphragm 191 may be bent towards... Figure 5 The piezoelectric element 192 flexes in the direction of arrow A due to displacement. When the frequency of the extension and retraction of the piezoelectric element 192 becomes close to or equal to the resonant frequency of the diaphragm 191, the piezoelectric element 192 deforms in diameter during the displacement of the central portion of the diaphragm 191 in the direction of arrow A. As a result, the diaphragm 191 is not hindered by the piezoelectric element 192 from flexing in the direction of arrow A.

[0070] Subsequently, the diaphragm 191, based on its own restorative action, attempts to return in the direction of arrow B. When the frequency of the expansion and contraction of the piezoelectric element 192 becomes close to or equal to the resonant frequency of the diaphragm 191, the piezoelectric element 192 expands in diameter during this period. As a result, the expansion effect of the piezoelectric element 192 is added to the restorative action of the diaphragm 191, causing the central portion of the diaphragm 191 to... Figure 5 The diaphragm 191 undergoes a significant deflection in the direction of arrow B. During the displacement of the central portion of the diaphragm 191 in the direction of arrow B, the piezoelectric element 192 deforms by narrowing its diameter. Conversely, when the diaphragm 191 attempts to return in the direction of arrow A due to its own restorative action, the piezoelectric element 192 deforms by expanding its diameter. As a result, the diaphragm 191 deflects significantly in the direction of arrow A. Thus, based on the expansion and contraction of the piezoelectric element 192 at a frequency close to or equal to the resonant frequency of the diaphragm 191, the diaphragm 191 vibrates significantly in the directions of arrows A and B. Based on this vibration of the diaphragm 191, mist is generated as described above. This mist, while expanding radially, falls through the discharge channel 172 into the area in front of the nozzle 150.

[0071] The mist that falls to the ground prevents dust from being re-entrained. Therefore, as the nozzle 150 advances through the area where the mist has fallen, the vacuum cleaner 100 draws in the dust based on the suction force of the suction source 111. As the nozzle 150 passes through the area where the mist has fallen, the brush rollers 161 and 162 come into contact with the ground. Because the brushes 164 of these brush rollers 161 and 162 are hydrophilic, the mist on the ground easily adheres to the brushes 164. Therefore, a large amount of mist on the ground is transferred to the brushes 164, reducing the amount of mist remaining on the ground. Thus, the ground dries more quickly.

[0072] Although a large amount of fog on the ground is wiped away by brush 164, the fog remaining on the ground is difficult to dry in the high humidity indoors. To promote the early drying of the fog remaining on the ground, the following process is performed to reduce the amount of fog emitted. That is, if the humidity detected by the information acquisition unit 219 is higher than a specified upper limit threshold (step S120: "Yes"), the fog adjustment unit 218 can decide to set the magnitude of the AC voltage to a value smaller than the normal value (step S140). Moreover, the voltage application unit 215 outputs an AC voltage with a small value set by the fog adjustment unit 218. As a result, a small AC voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element 192. In this case, the radial expansion and contraction of the piezoelectric element 192 becomes smaller, and as the expansion and contraction decreases, the amplitude of the central portion of the vibrating diaphragm 191 also decreases.

[0073] When the amplitude of the diaphragm 191 is small, it moves towards... Figure 5The amount of water flowing through the vibrating diaphragm 191 as it shifts in the direction of arrow A is less. Therefore, when the vibrating diaphragm 191 subsequently shifts in the direction of arrow B, the amount of water that can pass through the multiple discharge holes 194 of the vibrating diaphragm 191 decreases. As a result, the amount of mist discharged through the multiple discharge holes 194 of the vibrating diaphragm 191 is reduced. Therefore, the situation where the ground remains wet for an extended period after cleaning is avoided.

[0074] If the humidity detected by the information acquisition unit 219 is higher than the upper limit threshold (step S120: "Yes"), the indoor humidity suppresses dust from flying off the ground to a certain extent. Therefore, even if the amount of fog generation decreases, there will be no problem of dust flying off the ground.

[0075] On the other hand, it is believed that in low indoor humidity conditions, the effect of indoor moisture in suppressing dust dispersion is less significant, resulting in an increase in dust particles suspended indoors. To capture as much indoor dust as possible and cause it to fall to the ground, in low indoor humidity conditions, such as... Figure 10 As shown, the amount of fog generated can be controlled.

[0076] That is, the fog adjustment unit 218 can determine whether the humidity detected by the information acquisition unit 219 is lower than a specified lower threshold (step S125). Furthermore, if the humidity detected by the information acquisition unit 219 is lower than the lower threshold, the fog adjustment unit 218 decides to set the AC voltage to a value larger than the normal value (step S145). The voltage application unit 215 outputs an AC voltage with the larger value set by the fog adjustment unit 218. As a result, a large AC voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element 192. In this case, the radial extension of the piezoelectric element 192 increases, and as this extension increases, the amplitude of the central portion of the diaphragm 191 also increases.

[0077] The greater the amplitude of the diaphragm 191, the more it vibrates towards... Figure 5 The amount of water flowing through the vibrating diaphragm 191 increases as it shifts in the direction of arrow A. Therefore, as the vibrating diaphragm 191 subsequently shifts in the direction of arrow B, the amount of water that can pass through the multiple discharge holes 194 of the vibrating diaphragm 191 increases. As a result, more mist is discharged through the multiple discharge holes 194 of the vibrating diaphragm 191. Thus, due to the increased amount of mist generated, more dust is captured by the mist and falls to the ground. Furthermore, when the suction nozzle 150 passes through the area where the mist has fallen, the dust that has fallen to the ground is sucked into the vacuum cleaner 100.

[0078] exist Figure 9 and Figure 10In the control process, the fog adjustment unit 218 uses an upper threshold and a lower threshold to perform judgment processing and determine the magnitude of the AC voltage (steps S120, S125). Alternatively, the higher the humidity detected by the information acquisition unit 219, the lower the AC voltage can be set by the fog adjustment unit 218. In this case, it is also possible to obtain the same value as the humidity detected by the information acquisition unit 219. Figure 9 and Figure 10 The effect obtained by controlling it is the same as the effect obtained by controlling it.

[0079] In the above embodiment, the information acquisition unit 219 is configured to detect indoor humidity. As an alternative, such as... Figure 11 As shown, indoor humidity can also be detected by a humidity sensor 261 installed indoors. Figure 11 In this configuration, an indoor transmitter 262 is also provided for outputting a wireless signal indicating the humidity detected by the humidity sensor 261. In this case, an information acquisition unit 219 can be configured using a receiver capable of receiving the wireless signal output from the transmitter 262.

[0080] <Second Implementation Method>

[0081] In the first embodiment, the mist on the ground is wiped away by the hydrophilic brush 164 of the brush rollers 161 and 162. Therefore, after a certain period of time since the start of the cleaning operation, the brush 164 becomes wet. In this state, the mist on the ground easily adheres to the brush 164, increasing the amount of dust removed from the ground. However, at the beginning of the cleaning operation, the brush 164 is dry, and the effect of dust adhering to the brush 164 is not high. To improve this situation, [further details can be added]. Figure 12 The controls shown.

[0082] That is, if the user operates the operation unit 141, the mist adjustment unit 218 starts timing in response to the operation of the operation unit 141. Furthermore, from the time the user operates the operation unit 141 (i.e., when cleaning begins) until a specified time has elapsed (step S220: "No"), the mist adjustment unit 218 determines to set the AC voltage to a value larger than the normal value (step S145). The voltage application unit 215 outputs an AC voltage with the larger value set by the mist adjustment unit 218. As a result, a larger AC voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element 192. In this case, the radial extension of the piezoelectric element 192 increases. As this extension increases, the amplitude of the central portion of the vibrating diaphragm 191 also increases, and the amount of mist generated from the vibrating diaphragm 191 increases.

[0083] After a specified time has elapsed since the start of cleaning (step S220: "Yes"), the fog adjustment unit 218 determines to set the magnitude of the AC voltage to a normal value (step S130). The voltage application unit 215 outputs an AC voltage having the normal value set by the fog adjustment unit 218. As a result, the amplitude of the central portion of the vibrating diaphragm 191 is smaller than the amplitude of the central portion of the vibrating diaphragm 191 from the start of cleaning until the specified time has elapsed. That is, the amount of fog generated per unit time from the vibrating diaphragm 191 is less than the amount of fog generated per unit time from the start of cleaning until the specified time has elapsed.

[0084] In progress Figure 12 Under controlled conditions, the amount of mist generated per unit time from the vibrating diaphragm 191 increases from the start of cleaning until a specified time has elapsed, resulting in more mist adhering to the ground. Consequently, the amount of mist adhering to the brushes 164 on the brush rollers 161 and 162 also increases from the start of cleaning until the specified time has elapsed, causing the brushes 164 to become wet in the early stages. As the specified time has elapsed from the start of cleaning, the amount of mist generated decreases. Therefore, excessively wet brushes 164 are prevented, and the function of maintaining mist adhering to the brushes 164 on the ground for a certain period of time is maintained to a certain extent.

[0085] Furthermore, the mist adjustment unit 218 can gradually decrease the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm 191 from the moment the operation unit 141 is operated. In this case, the amount of mist generated is at its maximum at the moment the operation unit 141 is operated, and then gradually decreases. Even in this case, the brush 164 can be wet in the early stage, and it can also prevent the brush 164 from becoming excessively wet.

[0086] The control in the second embodiment can be performed together with the control in the first embodiment. Alternatively, the control in the first embodiment may be omitted, and only the control in the second embodiment may be performed. In the case where only the control in the second embodiment is performed, the information acquisition unit 219 may not be provided.

[0087] <Third Implementation Method>

[0088] The nozzle 150 can operate on various types of surfaces. For example, when the nozzle 150 operates on Class 1 surfaces with low moisture absorption (such as wooden floors) while expelling mist, the mist dries immediately after cleaning. On the other hand, when the nozzle 150 operates on Class 2 surfaces with high moisture absorption (such as carpeted floors or rugs), the mist is sucked into the floor, and it takes some time for the mist to dry. The vacuum cleaner 100 can... Figure 13As shown, it is configured to dry the mist in a short time regardless of the type of ground on which the suction nozzle 150 travels.

[0089] Figure 13 The vacuum cleaner 100 shown has a floor detection unit 263 for detecting different types of surfaces. The floor detection unit 263 can be configured using a reflective optical sensor that emits detection light towards the floor. In this case, when the nozzle 150 moves across a wooden floor (a type 1 surface), the floor detection unit 263 can receive strong reflected light from the floor. On the other hand, when the nozzle 150 moves across a carpeted floor (a type 2 surface), the reflected light received by the floor detection unit 263 is weaker.

[0090] In this embodiment, the ground detection unit 263 is configured to output a detection signal when the intensity of the reflected light received by the ground detection unit 263 exceeds a specified intensity threshold. This intensity threshold can be set to a value that is less than the expected intensity of reflected light when the suction nozzle 150 walks on a wooden floor and greater than the expected intensity of reflected light when the suction nozzle 150 walks on a carpeted floor.

[0091] like Figure 14 As shown, the ground detection unit 263 is electrically connected to the fog adjustment unit 218, which can receive detection signals from the ground detection unit 263. In this case, the fog adjustment unit 218 can determine the type of ground on which the suction nozzle 150 is moving based on the presence or absence of a detection signal from the ground detection unit 263. That is, when a detection signal is output, the fog adjustment unit 218 can determine that the suction nozzle 150 is moving on a wooden floor (Type 1 flooring). Conversely, when no detection signal is output, the fog adjustment unit 218 can determine that the suction nozzle 150 is moving on a carpeted floor (Type 2 flooring). Therefore, the fog adjustment unit 218 can adjust the fog level according to the type of ground detected by the ground detection unit 263. Figure 15 Adjust the amount of fog generated as shown.

[0092] If the user operates the operation unit 141, the ground detection unit 263 emits a detection light towards the ground. Furthermore, if the reflected light of the detection light exceeds the intensity threshold, the ground detection unit 263 outputs a detection signal (step S320: "Yes"). In addition, when the ground detection unit 263 outputs a detection signal, it is assumed that the suction nozzle 150 is walking on a type 1 surface (i.e., on a wooden floor).

[0093] The aforementioned detection signal is output from the ground detection unit 263 to the fog adjustment unit 218. In this case, the fog adjustment unit 218 sets the magnitude of the AC voltage to a normal value (step S130). At this time, fog of a generated amount corresponding to the normal value is discharged from the vibrating diaphragm 191.

[0094] On the other hand, when the suction nozzle 150 walks on a carpeted floor (i.e., on a type 2 floor), the intensity of the reflected light received by the floor detection unit 263 does not exceed the intensity threshold. In this case, the floor detection unit 263 does not output a detection signal (step S320: "No"). The mist adjustment unit 218 sets the AC voltage to a value lower than the normal value whenever no detection signal is received (step S140). As a result, the amplitude of the diaphragm 191 is smaller than the amplitude of the diaphragm 191 when the suction nozzle 150 walks on a wooden floor (i.e., on a type 1 floor), and less mist is emitted from the diaphragm 191.

[0095] In progress Figure 15 Under the control conditions shown, since the amount of mist generated when the nozzle 150 walks on the carpet floor is small, the time from the end of the cleaning operation to the carpet floor drying is not too long.

[0096] In the above embodiment, the light sensor used as the ground detection unit 263 is configured to output a detection signal when it receives reflected light exceeding an intensity threshold. Alternatively, the light sensor may be configured to output a signal when it does not receive reflected light exceeding the intensity threshold. In this case, the fog adjustment unit 218 is configured to set the AC voltage to a value smaller than the normal value if a signal is received from the light sensor, and to set the AC voltage to the normal value if no signal is received from the light sensor.

[0097] exist Figures 13 to 15 In this design, a reflective light sensor is used to construct the floor detection unit 263. Alternatively, the floor detection unit 263 can be configured to detect the load on the drive motors of the drive rollers 161 and 162. In this case, the floor detection unit 263 can detect a high load applied to the drive motor when the suction nozzle 150 is walking on a carpeted floor. On the other hand, when the suction nozzle 150 is walking on a wooden floor, the floor detection unit 263 can detect a small load applied to the drive motor. Based on these differences in load, the type of floor the suction nozzle 150 is walking on can be identified. As another alternative, a camera device that captures images of the floor can be used to construct the floor detection unit 263. In this case, the type of floor can be determined based on the image data acquired by the camera device. When using a camera device, identification of, for example, wooden floors and tatami floors can be easily performed.

[0098] The control in the third embodiment can be executed together with the control in the first embodiment and / or the control in the second embodiment. When the control in the third embodiment is executed together with the control in the first embodiment, the amount of fog generated can be determined based on the type of surface being cleaned and the humidity at the time of cleaning. Furthermore, when the control in the third embodiment is executed together with the control in the second embodiment, the amount of fog generated can be determined based on the type of surface being cleaned and the elapsed time since the start of the cleaning operation.

[0099] <Fourth Implementation>

[0100] The amount of mist generated may be affected by the viscosity of the water in the reservoir 180. That is, the higher the viscosity of the water, the more difficult it is for the water in the reservoir 180 to enter the discharge hole 194 of the vibrating membrane 191. Therefore, the higher the viscosity of the water, the lower the amount of mist generated. To suppress the influence of water viscosity on the amount of mist generated, such as... Figure 16 As shown, a temperature sensor 222 that detects water temperature, which affects the viscosity of water, can be installed inside the liquid storage section 180. Figure 17 As shown, the temperature sensor 222 is electrically connected to the fog adjustment unit 218 and is configured to output a temperature signal representing the detected temperature to the fog adjustment unit 218. Furthermore, the fog adjustment unit 218 adjusts the fog signal according to the temperature signal... Figure 18 Adjust the amount of fog generated as shown.

[0101] If the user operates the operation unit 141, the temperature sensor 222 detects the temperature of the water in the liquid storage unit 180 and outputs a temperature signal indicating the detected temperature to the mist adjustment unit 218. The mist adjustment unit 218 determines whether the temperature indicated by the temperature signal is lower than a specified value (step S420). If the temperature indicated by the temperature signal is not lower than the specified value (step S420: "No"), the AC voltage is set to a normal value. At this time, a mist generation amount corresponding to the normal value is discharged from the vibrating diaphragm 191.

[0102] On the other hand, if the temperature indicated by the temperature signal is lower than the specified value (step S420: "Yes"), the mist adjustment unit 218 sets the magnitude of the AC voltage to a value larger than the normal value. In this case, the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm 191 increases. As a result, based on the increase in the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm 191, the decrease in the amount of mist generated due to the drop in water temperature in the liquid storage unit 180 can be offset to some extent.

[0103] The control in the fourth embodiment can be performed together with the control in the first to third embodiments. In this case, the control in the first to third embodiments can be performed while suppressing the influence of water temperature fluctuations within the liquid storage section 180.

[0104] exist Figures 1 to 18 In the vacuum cleaner 100 shown, a liquid reservoir 180 is installed on the nozzle 150. Alternatively, the liquid reservoir 180 can be installed on the suction tube 130. In this case, mist is discharged to the rear of the nozzle 150. At this time, if the user moves the nozzle 150 back, dust suspended in the air can be drawn into the vacuum cleaner 100 while preventing dust from flying off the ground.

[0105] exist Figures 1 to 18 In the vacuum cleaner 100 shown, the hydrophilic brush 164 of the brush rollers 161 and 162 removes the mist adhering to the ground. Alternatively, an absorbent cloth can be provided on the bottom surface of the nozzle 150 to remove the mist. In this case, the nozzle 150 may not have brush rollers 161 and 162.

[0106] <Fifth Implementation>

[0107] In the first to fourth embodiments, the mist generating unit 190 discharges mist to the periphery of the suction nozzle 150. Alternatively, the mist generating unit 190 can discharge mist into the suction space 158 of the suction nozzle 150. In this case, as... Figure 19 As shown, two through holes 243 and 244 are formed at the bottom of the receiving recess 171 of the suction nozzle housing 151, extending to the suction space 158 below the receiving recess 171. In detail, these through holes 243 and 244 are located above the brush rollers 161 and 162 within the suction space 158.

[0108] When the mist is discharged into the inhalation space 158, such as Figure 20 As shown, two openings 181 and 225 are formed at the bottom of the liquid reservoir 180. Two retaining sleeves 241 and 242 protrude downward from the openings 181 and 225. These retaining sleeves 241 and 242 are configured to fit into the through holes 243 and 244 of the receiving recess 171 when the liquid reservoir 180 is received in the receiving recess 171.

[0109] The retaining cylinders 241 and 242 hold the piezoelectric element 192 and the vibrating diaphragm 191 below the openings 181 and 225. When these vibrating diaphragms 191 are stationary, water is retained within the liquid storage section 180. Conversely, if the vibrating diaphragms 191 vibrate up and down, the water in the liquid storage section 180 is atomized and discharged downwards.

[0110] Similar to the first embodiment, electrodes 211 and 212 are provided on the front wall of the liquid storage section 180. These electrodes 211 and 212 contact electrodes 213 and 214 provided in the receiving recess 171 when the liquid storage section 180 is received in the receiving recess 171. Figure 21 As shown, two electric field lines 197 and 231 extend from electrode 211. Electric field line 197 is connected to electrode 195 of one of the two piezoelectric elements 192. Electric field line 231 is connected to electrode 195 of the other piezoelectric element 192. Similarly, two electric field lines 198 and 232 extend from electrode 212. Electric field line 198 is connected to electrode 196 of the piezoelectric element 192. Furthermore, electric field line 232 is connected to electrode 196 of the other piezoelectric element 192. Therefore, the two piezoelectric elements 192 are electrically connected to voltage application unit 215 via electrodes 195 and 196, electric field lines 197, 198, 231, and 232, and electrodes 211 to 214. Therefore, if voltage application unit 215 outputs an AC voltage, the AC voltage is applied to the two piezoelectric elements 192. These piezoelectric elements 192 extend and retract radially in response to the applied voltage. Furthermore, the diaphragm 191 is able to vibrate in response to the expansion and contraction of the piezoelectric element 192.

[0111] The amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm 191 is adjusted by the mist adjustment unit 218, which controls the magnitude of the AC voltage output from the voltage application unit 215. The mist adjustment unit 218 is electrically connected to the temperature sensor 222, and similarly to the fourth embodiment, it determines the magnitude of the AC voltage based on the temperature of the water in the reservoir 180 detected by the temperature sensor 222. In this case, the amount of mist generated remains approximately constant regardless of changes in the water temperature within the reservoir 180.

[0112] As an alternative, the fog adjustment unit 218 can perform... Figure 12 The control shown in (Second Embodiment) is as follows. In this case, the amount of mist generated at the start of the cleaning operation is relatively large. In this case, the brush rollers 161 and 162 can be made wet in an early stage. Especially when the mist is discharged into the suction space 158, the mist is sprayed directly onto the brush rollers 161 and 162. In this case, compared with the case where the mist is discharged to the ground around the suction nozzle 150, the brush rollers 161 and 162 can become wet in an early stage.

[0113] In execution Figure 12Under the controlled conditions shown, the amount of mist generated is reduced after a specified time has elapsed since the start of cleaning. Therefore, brush rollers 161 and 162 do not become excessively wet. This prevents the floor from becoming excessively wet after the nozzle 150 passes through. In particular, since the brush 164 of brush rollers 161 and 162 is hydrophilic, the transfer of mist adhering to the brush 164 to the floor is suppressed. Therefore, the amount of water adhering to the floor can be suppressed, and the floor can be dried early after cleaning. On the other hand, the brush 164 can maintain a moisture-retaining state, enabling it to retain dust on the floor for an extended period of time.

[0114] To prevent brush rollers 161 and 162 from becoming excessively wet, the following steps can also be taken: Figure 10 The controls are shown. In this case, as... Figure 22 As shown, the information acquisition unit 219 may be a humidity sensor disposed within the inhalation space 158, capable of detecting humidity within the inhalation space 158. To transmit the humidity information detected by the information acquisition unit 219 to the mist adjustment unit 218, as shown... Figure 23 As shown, the information acquisition unit 219 can be electrically connected to the fog adjustment unit 218. In this case, the magnitude of the AC voltage output from the voltage application unit 215 can be adjusted according to... Figure 10 The steps shown are used to set the humidity level. Specifically, when the humidity detected by the information acquisition unit 219 is higher than a specified upper limit threshold, the mist adjustment unit 218 sets an AC voltage that can achieve a smaller amplitude than the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm 191 when it is not higher than the threshold (step S140). This prevents the brush rollers 161 and 162 from becoming excessively wet.

[0115] Furthermore, the mist adjustment unit 218 can determine the AC voltage without using an upper limit threshold. For example, the higher the humidity detected by the information acquisition unit 219 (the humidity within the suction space 158), the lower the AC voltage can be set by the mist adjustment unit 218. Even in this case, it is possible to prevent the brush rollers 161 and 162 from becoming excessively wet.

[0116] Even when the mist is discharged into the suction space 158, the control described in embodiments 2 to 4 can still be performed. That is, the amount of mist generated can be adjusted not only based on the humidity within the suction space 158, but also based on the type of ground on which the nozzle 150 travels, the elapsed time since the start of the cleaning operation, and / or the water temperature within the reservoir 180.

[0117] In embodiments 1 to 5, the fog adjustment unit 218 adjusts the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm 191 and thus the amount of fog generated by changing the magnitude of the AC voltage output from the voltage application unit 215. Alternatively, the fog adjustment unit 218 can be configured to change the frequency of the AC voltage output from the voltage application unit 215. In this case, if the frequency of the AC voltage is set to a value close to the resonant frequency of the vibrating diaphragm 191 itself, the vibrating diaphragm 191 can vibrate significantly. In this case, the amount of fog generated can be increased. On the other hand, the further the frequency of the AC voltage output from the voltage application unit 215 deviates from this resonant frequency, the smaller the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm 191. In this case, the amount of fog generated decreases. Thus, even by changing the frequency of the AC voltage output from the voltage application unit 215, the amount of fog generated can be adjusted.

[0118] In embodiments 1 to 5, the liquid reservoir 180 can be separated from the nozzle 150. Alternatively, the liquid reservoir 180 may be integrally formed with the nozzle 150.

[0119] In embodiments 1 to 5, water is stored in the liquid storage section 180. Alternatively, other liquids that help remove dust from the ground may be stored in the liquid storage section 180. For example, a liquid containing a surfactant may be stored in the liquid storage section 180. In this case, the surfactant can promote the removal of oil from the ground.

[0120] In embodiments 1 to 5, the suction nozzle 150 has a pair of brush rollers 161, 162. Alternatively, the suction nozzle 150 may have only a single brush roller. As yet another alternative, the suction nozzle 150 may not have a brush roller.

[0121] In embodiments 1 to 5, the vacuum cleaner 100 is a stick type. Alternatively, the vacuum cleaner 100 may also be a self-propelled vacuum cleaner (so-called a robotic vacuum cleaner) or a canister vacuum cleaner.

[0122] (Effects, etc.)

[0123] The vacuum cleaner 100 according to the above embodiments has the following features and the following effects.

[0124] In the above-described embodiments, one aspect of the vacuum cleaner includes: a suction source that generates suction force for suctioning dust; a nozzle housing configured to form a suction space with an opening so as to suck in dust based on the suction force of the suction source, and configured to be movable on the ground; a liquid reservoir for storing liquid; a mist generating unit for generating mist from the liquid in the liquid reservoir; and a mist adjusting unit for adjusting the amount of mist generated by the mist generating unit. The mist generating unit has a vibrating diaphragm configured to cover the opening provided in the liquid reservoir, and a vibration generating unit for vibrating the vibrating diaphragm to cause the liquid in the liquid reservoir to flow. A plurality of discharge holes are formed on the vibrating diaphragm, the discharge holes having a size that prevents liquid from passing through when the vibrating diaphragm is stationary, but allows liquid to pass through when the vibrating diaphragm vibrates and discharges mist to the periphery of the nozzle housing. The mist adjusting unit is configured to adjust the amount of mist discharged outside the liquid reservoir by changing the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm, the mist being formed by the liquid passing through the plurality of discharge holes.

[0125] In the above configuration, if the mist generating unit discharges mist to the periphery of the nozzle housing, the mist falls due to gravity and adheres to the ground. During the mist's descent, airborne dust particles attach to the mist and fall to the ground along with it. Furthermore, because the ground is moistened by the mist, the amount of dust flying off the ground is reduced. As a result, as the nozzle housing moves across the ground, the amount of dust drawn in through the suction space increases due to the suction force of the suction source.

[0126] If the mist generating section causes the vibrating membrane to vibrate based on the vibration generating section, the liquid in the reservoir flows as follows: If the vibrating membrane displaces outward, the pressure near the inner surface of the membrane decreases, and based on this pressure decrease, the liquid in the reservoir flows towards the outwardly displaced membrane. Subsequently, if the membrane displaces in the opposite direction, the flow direction of the liquid near the inner surface of the membrane is opposite to the direction of displacement, and the liquid near the inner surface collides with the inner surface of the membrane and passes through the multiple discharge holes of the membrane. Furthermore, the liquid passing through these discharge holes becomes mist and is discharged to the outside of the reservoir. In addition, the multiple discharge holes of the membrane allow liquid to pass through when the membrane vibrates, but do not allow liquid to pass through the reservoir when the membrane is stationary, thus preventing unnecessary leakage through the membrane.

[0127] The larger the amplitude of the diaphragm, the more liquid flows towards the outward-displaced diaphragm. Therefore, when the diaphragm subsequently displaces in the opposite direction, the amount of water (i.e., mist) flowing through the multiple discharge holes of the diaphragm increases. Conversely, if the amplitude of the diaphragm is small, the amount of mist discharged through the discharge holes decreases. Thus, by changing the amplitude of the diaphragm, the amount of mist discharged can be increased or decreased. Therefore, the vacuum cleaner has a mist adjustment unit configured to change the amplitude of the diaphragm. By providing the mist adjustment unit, a large amount of mist can be discharged when a large amount of mist is desired, and a small amount of mist can be discharged when a small amount of mist is desired.

[0128] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may further include: a brush roller disposed within the suction space and held by the nozzle housing in a manner that allows it to rotate when in contact with the ground. Water, as a liquid, may be stored in the liquid reservoir. The brush roller may have a roller body that is rotatably held by the nozzle housing, and a hydrophilic brush that protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the roller body and contacts the ground.

[0129] The lower the humidity, the less effective the moisture in causing dust to adhere to the ground. Therefore, it is foreseeable that more dust particles will be suspended on the ground when humidity is low. To avoid this, in the above configuration, the fog adjustment unit increases the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm when the humidity information acquired by the information acquisition unit is below a specified lower limit, compared to when the humidity information is above that lower limit. As a result, when the humidity is low enough to fall below the lower limit, the amount of fog generated increases, improving the effect of settling the dust particles suspended on the ground.

[0130] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may further include: an information acquisition unit that acquires humidity information representing humidity. The mist adjustment unit may be configured to increase the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm when the humidity information acquired by the information acquisition unit is lower than a specified lower limit, compared to when the humidity information is higher than the lower limit.

[0131] The lower the indoor humidity, the less effective the moisture in causing dust to adhere to the ground. Therefore, it is foreseeable that when indoor humidity is low, more dust particles will be suspended on the ground. To avoid this, in the above configuration, the fog adjustment unit increases the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm when the humidity information acquired by the information acquisition unit is below a specified lower limit, compared to when the humidity information is above that lower limit. As a result, when the indoor humidity is low enough to fall below the lower limit, the amount of fog generated increases, improving the effect of settling the dust particles suspended on the ground.

[0132] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may further include: an information acquisition unit that acquires humidity information indicating humidity. The mist adjustment unit may be configured to reduce the amplitude of the diaphragm when the humidity information acquired by the information acquisition unit is higher than a specified upper limit value, compared to when the humidity information is lower than the upper limit value.

[0133] In high humidity conditions, fog adhering to the ground is difficult to dry. Therefore, it is advisable to reduce the amount of fog emitted in high humidity. In the above configuration, in order to adjust the amount of fog emitted according to humidity, the fog adjustment unit reduces the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm when the humidity information acquired by the information acquisition unit is higher than a specified upper limit value, compared to when the humidity information is lower than that upper limit value. As a result, when the humidity is high enough to exceed the upper limit value, the amount of fog generated is reduced, preventing the ground from becoming excessively wet.

[0134] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may further include: an information acquisition unit that acquires humidity information indicating humidity. The mist adjustment unit may be configured such that the higher the humidity information acquired by the information acquisition unit, the lower the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm.

[0135] In the above configuration, the higher the humidity information acquired by the information acquisition unit, the smaller the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm is reduced by the fog adjustment unit. Therefore, the amount of fog generated is reduced when the humidity is high, thus preventing the ground from becoming excessively wet. Conversely, the amount of fog generated increases when the humidity is low, thus increasing the amount of dust captured by the fog and falling to the ground.

[0136] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may further include: a floor detection unit for detecting the floor type. The mist adjustment unit may be configured to reduce the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm when the floor type detected by the floor detection unit is a type 2 floor with higher hygroscopicity than type 1 floor, compared to when the floor type detected by the floor detection unit is type 1 floor.

[0137] In the above configuration, if the floor is, for example, made of carpet, it has high hygroscopicity. If a large amount of mist is discharged onto the highly hygroscopic floor, the floor will remain wet even after cleaning. To avoid this, in the above configuration, when the floor detection unit detects a type 2 floor with relatively high hygroscopicity, the mist adjustment unit reduces the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm. As a result, the amount of mist generated is reduced, shortening the time until the floor dries.

[0138] In the above-described embodiments, another aspect of the vacuum cleaner includes: a suction source that generates suction force for suctioning dust; a nozzle having a nozzle housing and a brush roller, the nozzle housing being configured to form a suction space with an opening so as to suck in dust based on the suction force of the suction source, and being configured to be movable on the ground, the brush roller being disposed within the suction space and held by the nozzle housing in a manner that allows it to rotate when in contact with the ground; a liquid reservoir for storing liquid; a mist generating unit for generating mist from the liquid in the liquid reservoir; and a mist adjusting unit for adjusting the amount of mist generated by the mist generating unit. The mist generating unit has a vibrating diaphragm configured to cover the opening provided in the liquid reservoir, and a vibration generating unit for vibrating the vibrating diaphragm to cause the liquid in the liquid reservoir to flow. A plurality of discharge holes are formed on the vibrating diaphragm, the discharge holes being of a size that prevents liquid from passing through when the vibrating diaphragm is stationary, but allows liquid to pass through and discharges mist into the suction space when the vibrating diaphragm vibrates. The mist adjustment unit is configured to adjust the amount of mist discharged to the liquid storage unit by changing the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm. The mist is composed of liquid passing through multiple discharge holes.

[0139] In the above configuration, the mist generating unit discharges mist into the suction space, thus wetting the brush roller disposed within the suction space. If the wet brush roller rotates while in contact with the ground, dust on the ground adheres to the brush roller, achieving wet cleaning of the floor. Because the vacuum cleaner is equipped with a mist adjusting unit, the degree of wetness of the brush roller can be adjusted based on this unit.

[0140] In the above configuration, water, as a liquid, can be stored in the liquid storage section. The brush roller may have a roller body that is rotatably held by the suction nozzle housing, and a hydrophilic brush that protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the roller body and contacts the ground.

[0141] In the above configuration, the brush protruding from the outer peripheral surface of the roller body is hydrophilic, so the mist discharged from the mist generation section and adhering to the brush easily maintains its adherence to the brush even when in contact with the ground. Therefore, the brush is easily kept wet and excessive water transfer to the ground is prevented.

[0142] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may further include: an information acquisition unit that acquires humidity information representing humidity. The mist adjustment unit may be configured to reduce the amplitude of the diaphragm when the humidity detected by the humidity sensor is higher than a specified upper limit value, compared to when the humidity detected by the humidity sensor is lower than the upper limit value.

[0143] If a large amount of mist is emitted under high humidity conditions, the brush roller will become excessively wet. If the brush roller in this state comes into contact with the ground, the ground will also become excessively wet. To prevent the ground from becoming excessively wet, in the above configuration, the mist adjustment unit reduces the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm when the humidity obtained by the information acquisition unit is higher than a specified upper limit value, compared to when the humidity obtained by the information acquisition unit is lower than the upper limit value. As a result, when the humidity is high enough to exceed the upper limit value, the amount of mist generated is reduced, preventing the brush roller and the ground from becoming excessively wet.

[0144] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may further include: an information acquisition unit that acquires humidity information. The mist adjustment unit may be configured such that the higher the humidity acquired by the information acquisition unit, the lower the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm.

[0145] In the above configuration, the higher the humidity acquired by the information acquisition unit, the less the mist adjustment unit reduces the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm. Therefore, when the humidity is high, the amount of mist generated is reduced. This prevents the brush roller from becoming overly wet.

[0146] In the above configuration, the vibration generating unit may include a piezoelectric element that expands and contracts based on an applied AC voltage, and a voltage applying unit that applies an AC voltage to the piezoelectric element. The piezoelectric element may be connected to the diaphragm in such a way that the diaphragm vibrates based on the expansion and contraction of the piezoelectric element.

[0147] In the above configuration, when an AC voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element by the voltage application unit, the piezoelectric element expands and contracts. Based on the expansion and contraction of the piezoelectric element, the diaphragm vibrates, and the mist is discharged through the discharge hole of the diaphragm.

[0148] In the above configuration, the fog adjustment unit can be configured to change the amplitude or frequency of the AC voltage applied by the voltage application unit.

[0149] In the above configuration, if the amplitude of the AC voltage applied by the voltage application unit is increased by the mist adjustment unit, the expansion and contraction range of the piezoelectric element increases. As a result, the amplitude of the diaphragm increases, which in turn increases the amount of mist generated. Alternatively, if the frequency of the AC voltage applied by the voltage application unit is made close to the resonant frequency of the diaphragm by the mist adjustment unit, the amplitude of the diaphragm increases, which in turn increases the amount of mist generated.

[0150] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may further include: a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the liquid in the reservoir. The vacuum cleaner may also include: a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the water in the reservoir. The mist adjustment unit may be configured to increase the amplitude of the diaphragm when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is lower than a specified value, compared to when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is higher than a specified value.

[0151] The lower the temperature of the liquid in the reservoir, the higher its viscosity, making it more difficult for the liquid to pass through the discharge orifice. Consequently, the lower the temperature of the liquid in the reservoir, the lower the amount of mist generated. To suppress this decrease in mist generation, in the above configuration, the mist adjustment unit increases the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is below a specified value, compared to when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is above a specified value. If the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm increases, the amount of liquid passing through the discharge orifice increases; therefore, by increasing the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm, the decrease in mist generation accompanying the drop in liquid temperature can be suppressed.

[0152] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may further include: an operating unit operated by a user. The mist generating unit may be configured to operate when the operating unit is operated. The mist adjusting unit may change the amplitude of the diaphragm by reducing the amplitude of the diaphragm after a specified time has elapsed since the operating moment when the operating unit is operated.

[0153] In the above configuration, the brush roller rotates within the suction space, and the friction between the brush roller and the ground allows it to sweep up dust from the ground. The dust swept up by the brush roller is drawn in by the suction force of the suction source acting on the suction space. At this time, if the brush roller is wet, the amount of dust adhering to the brush roller and removed from the ground increases. However, it is foreseeable that the brush roller is not yet wet at the moment the operating unit is operated. In order to make the brush roller wet in an early stage, it is advisable to increase the amount of mist generated at the time of operation. To obtain such a large amount of mist generation, the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm is set to be large. On the other hand, if a large amount of mist is discharged after the brush roller has become a certain degree of wetness, it may result in an increase in the liquid left on the ground after cleaning. In order to make the cleaned ground dry in an early stage, the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm is set to a smaller value after a specified time has elapsed from the time of operation, so as to reduce the amount of mist generation.

[0154] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may further include: an operating unit, operated by a user. The mist generating unit may be configured to operate when the operating unit is operated. The mist adjusting unit may change the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm in such a way that the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm is reduced from the moment the operating unit is operated.

[0155] In the above configuration, since the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm is reduced from the moment the operating part is operated, the amount of mist generated is higher at the moment of operation and then decreases. Therefore, the brush roller can be made wet in the early stage, preventing excessive liquid left on the ground after cleaning.

[0156] Industrial availability

[0157] The vacuum cleaner described above is well utilized as a device for cleaning operations.

Claims

1. A vacuum cleaner, characterized in that... include: A suction source that generates suction force to remove dust; The nozzle housing is configured to form a suction space with an opening so as to suck in dust based on the suction force of the suction source, and is configured to be movable on the ground. Liquid storage section, for storing liquids; A mist generating unit generates mist from the liquid in the liquid storage unit; as well as, A fog adjustment unit adjusts the amount of fog generated by the fog generating unit; wherein... The mist generating unit has a vibrating diaphragm configured to cover the opening of the liquid storage unit, and a vibration generating unit that vibrates the vibrating diaphragm to cause liquid to flow in the liquid storage unit. The vibrating diaphragm has multiple discharge holes, each hole being sized to prevent liquid from passing through when the diaphragm is stationary, but allowing liquid to pass through and discharging mist to the periphery of the nozzle housing when the diaphragm vibrates. The mist adjustment unit is configured to adjust the amount of mist discharged outside the liquid storage unit by changing the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm, the mist being formed by liquid passing through the plurality of discharge holes.

2. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that... Also includes: The brush roller is disposed within the suction space and is held by the nozzle housing in a manner that allows it to rotate while in contact with the ground. The liquid storage section contains water as a liquid. The brush roller has a roller body that is rotatably held by the nozzle housing, and a hydrophilic brush that protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the roller body and contacts the ground.

3. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that... Also includes: The information acquisition department acquires humidity information. The fog adjustment unit is configured to increase the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm when the humidity of the humidity information acquired by the information acquisition unit is lower than a specified lower limit value, compared to when the humidity of the humidity information is higher than the lower limit value.

4. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that... Also includes: The information acquisition department acquires humidity information. The fog adjustment unit is configured to reduce the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm when the humidity of the humidity information acquired by the information acquisition unit is higher than a specified upper limit value, compared to when the humidity of the humidity information is lower than the upper limit value.

5. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that... Also includes: The information acquisition department acquires humidity information. The fog adjustment unit is configured such that the higher the humidity of the humidity information acquired by the information acquisition unit, the smaller the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm.

6. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that... Also includes: Ground inspection department, inspects ground type. The fog adjustment unit is configured to reduce the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm when the ground type detected by the ground detection unit is a type 2 ground with higher hygroscopicity than type 1 ground, compared to when the ground type detected by the ground detection unit is type 1 ground.

7. A vacuum cleaner, characterized in that... include: A suction source that generates suction force to remove dust; A suction nozzle has a suction nozzle housing and a brush roller. The suction nozzle housing is configured to form a suction space with an opening so as to suck in dust based on the suction force of the suction source, and is configured to be movable on the ground. The brush roller is disposed in the suction space and is held by the suction nozzle housing in a manner that allows it to rotate when in contact with the ground. Liquid storage section, for storing liquids; A mist generating unit generates mist from the liquid in the liquid storage unit; as well as, A fog adjustment unit adjusts the amount of fog generated by the fog generating unit; wherein... The mist generating unit has a vibrating diaphragm configured to cover the opening of the liquid storage unit, and a vibration generating unit that vibrates the vibrating diaphragm to cause liquid to flow in the liquid storage unit. The vibrating diaphragm has multiple discharge holes, each hole being sized to prevent liquid from passing through when the diaphragm is stationary, but allowing liquid and mist to be discharged into the suction space when the diaphragm vibrates. The mist adjustment unit is configured to adjust the amount of mist discharged outside the liquid storage unit by changing the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm, the mist being formed by liquid passing through the plurality of discharge holes.

8. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 7, characterized in that, The liquid storage section contains water as a liquid. The brush roller has a roller body that is rotatably held by the nozzle housing, and a hydrophilic brush that protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the roller body and contacts the ground.

9. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that... Also includes: The information acquisition department acquires humidity information. The fog adjustment unit is configured to reduce the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm when the humidity detected by the humidity sensor is higher than a specified upper limit value, compared to when the humidity detected by the humidity sensor is lower than the upper limit value.

10. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that... Also includes: The information acquisition department acquires humidity information. The fog adjustment unit is configured such that the higher the humidity acquired by the information acquisition unit, the smaller the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm.

11. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1 or 7, characterized in that, The vibration generating part includes a piezoelectric element that expands and contracts based on an applied alternating voltage, and a voltage applying part that applies an alternating voltage to the piezoelectric element. The piezoelectric element is connected to the diaphragm in such a way that the diaphragm vibrates based on the expansion and contraction of the piezoelectric element.

12. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 11, characterized in that, The fog adjustment unit is configured to change the amplitude or frequency of the AC voltage applied by the voltage application unit.

13. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1 or 7, characterized in that... Also includes: A temperature sensor detects the temperature of the liquid inside the reservoir. The fog adjustment unit is configured to increase the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is lower than a specified value, compared to when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is higher than the specified value.

14. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 2 or 7, characterized in that... Also includes: The operating unit is operated by the user. The mist generating unit is configured to operate when the operating unit is operated. The mist adjustment unit changes the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm in the following manner: after a specified time has elapsed since the operation time when the operation unit is operated, the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm is reduced.

15. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 2 or 7, characterized in that... Also includes: The operating unit is operated by the user. The mist generating unit is configured to operate when the operating unit is operated. The mist adjustment unit changes the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm in the following manner: from the moment the operation unit is operated, the amplitude of the vibrating diaphragm is reduced.

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