Dust collector

Abstract

The vacuum cleaner of the present disclosure comprises: a suction source that generates 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; a liquid storage unit for storing water; and a mist generating part which makes the water in the liquid storage part become mist and discharges the mist to the periphery of the suction nozzle housing. The mist generating unit has: a vibrating membrane provided so as to cover the opening; and a vibration generating unit that vibrates the vibrating membrane so as to cause the water in the liquid storage unit to flow.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses Figure 20 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 21 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] When the ultrasonic generator 342 is used to generate mist, it must be positioned within the water storage section 341 with the ultrasonic generator 342 completely submerged in water. Therefore, the volume of the water storage section 341 is reduced by an amount equivalent to the volume of the ultrasonic generator 342. In other words, the amount of water that can be stored in the water storage section 341 is reduced. Furthermore, when using a technology that generates mist with the ultrasonic generator 342, a space must be formed to support the water column; therefore, the water storage section 341 becomes larger in the height direction.

[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 that can generate mist without the use of an ultrasonic generator.

[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 to suck up dust based on the suction force of the suction source, and configured to be movable on the ground; a liquid reservoir for storing liquid; and a mist generating unit that generates mist from the liquid in the liquid reservoir that can be discharged to the periphery of the nozzle housing. 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 in the liquid reservoir to pass through when the vibrating diaphragm vibrates. The liquid passing through the plurality of discharge holes becomes mist and is discharged to the outside of the liquid reservoir while expanding radially.

[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 for suctioning 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; and a mist generating unit for generating mist from the liquid in the liquid reservoir that can be discharged into the suction space. 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 in the liquid reservoir to pass through when the vibrating diaphragm vibrates, the liquid passing through the plurality of discharge holes becoming mist and being discharged to the outside of the liquid reservoir while expanding radially.

[0012] The aforementioned vacuum cleaner can generate mist using a small device. 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 This is an unfolded perspective view of a suction nozzle with an exhaust notification section that visualizes the mist being expelled through the vibrating diaphragm.

[0021] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the liquid storage section with an internal heater.

[0022] Figure 10 This is a three-dimensional view of the suction nozzle (second embodiment).

[0023] Figure 11 It is a circuit diagram used to apply AC voltage to piezoelectric elements.

[0024] Figure 12 It's a 3D image of the suction nozzle.

[0025] Figure 13 This is a 3D view of a suction nozzle with a vibrating diaphragm installed so that it discharges mist diagonally to the left and right.

[0026] Figure 14 This is a 3D view of a vacuum cleaner with an additional liquid reservoir installed on the suction tube.

[0027] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of a liquid reservoir configured to discharge mist into the suction space inside the nozzle (third embodiment).

[0028] Figure 16 It's a 3D image of the suction nozzle.

[0029] Figure 17 This is a bottom view of the suction nozzle.

[0030] Figure 18 This is a three-dimensional view of the vacuum cleaner nozzle (4th embodiment).

[0031] Figure 19 It is a 3D diagram of a vacuum cleaner nozzle.

[0032] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view of a traditional vacuum cleaner.

[0033] Figure 21This is a cross-sectional view of the liquid reservoir section installed in a conventional vacuum cleaner. Detailed Implementation

[0034] 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.

[0035] <First Implementation>

[0036] Figure 1 This is a 3D diagram of a stick vacuum cleaner (model 100). (Refer to...) Figure 1 Let's explain vacuum cleaner 100.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] An inlet (not shown) is formed on the peripheral wall of the dust storage section 120, which communicates the flow channel in the suction pipe 130 with 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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 within 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.

[0044] 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. The right brush roller 162 is rotatably supported on one side by the right housing portion 155. Furthermore, two drive motors for rotating and driving the brush rollers 161 and 162 are built into the rear housing portion 153, and these drive motors are activated or deactivated based on user operation of the operating unit 141.

[0045] Brush rollers 161 and 162 each have: a roller body 163 that tapers towards the distal end; and a brush 164 that protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the roller body 163 and contacts 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] like Figure 5 As shown, an opening 181 is formed on the front wall of the liquid storage section 180 to allow water inside the liquid storage section 180 to flow out. A locking ring 183 protrudes from the front side of this front wall, 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.

[0050] 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 corresponding to the inclination of the opening 181, so that the inner surface of the vibrating diaphragm 191 faces obliquely upward.

[0051] The piezoelectric element 192 is configured to expand and contract radially when an alternating voltage is applied. The diaphragm 191 is configured to be able to move along the axial direction of the opening 181 (i.e., Figure 5 Vibration (in the direction of arrows A and B).

[0052] 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 180) 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.

[0053] It is believed that the vibration of the diaphragm 191 will generate fog as follows: That is, if the diaphragm 191 vibrates along... Figure 5 As the membrane shifts in the direction of arrow B (outwards from the reservoir 180), a pressure drop occurs near the inner surface of the vibrating diaphragm 191. Water near the inner surface of the vibrating diaphragm 191 flows towards the shifted-out vibrating diaphragm 191 in response to this pressure drop. Subsequently, if the vibrating diaphragm 191 shifts in the opposite direction (inwards from the reservoir 180), the direction of its shift becomes opposite to the flow direction of the water near the inner surface of the vibrating diaphragm 191. As a result, water strongly impacts the inner surface of the vibrating diaphragm 191 and passes through multiple discharge holes 194 of the vibrating diaphragm 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 156, and is discharged from the front end of the discharge channel 172 to the area in front of the suction nozzle 150.

[0054] 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 wall of the liquid storage section 180.

[0055] 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 portion 215 for applying alternating current to these electrodes 213 and 214 is disposed in the rear housing portion 153.

[0056] 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.

[0057] (Instructions for the operation of a vacuum cleaner)

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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. That is, in response to the operation of the operation unit 141, the voltage application unit 215 applies an alternating voltage to the electrodes 213 and 214. This alternating voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element 192 through the electrodes 213 and 214, the electric field lines 197 and 198, and the electrodes 195 and 196.

[0060] The piezoelectric element 192 expands and contracts radially in response to the application of an alternating voltage. Since the frequency of the alternating voltage 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 also becomes close to or equal to the resonant frequency of the diaphragm 191. In this state, the diaphragm 191 vibrates significantly in the directions of arrows A and B as described below (i.e., the diaphragm 191 is in a resonant state).

[0061] If the piezoelectric element 192 contracts radially, the diaphragm 191 may become a radial... Figure 5 The piezoelectric element 192 is in a state of flexure in the direction of arrow B. Furthermore, if the piezoelectric element 192 expands radially, the diaphragm 191 may flex in the direction of... Figure 5 The piezoelectric element 192 flexes in the direction of arrow A. When the frequency of the expansion and contraction of the piezoelectric element 192 is close to or equal to the resonant frequency of the diaphragm 191, the piezoelectric element 192 deforms and contracts in diameter during the displacement of the diaphragm 191 in the direction of arrow A. As a result, the diaphragm 191 is not hindered from displacing in the direction of arrow A by the piezoelectric element 192 and can flex in the same direction.

[0062] 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 diaphragm 191 to... Figure 5 The diaphragm 191 displaces in the direction of arrow B, deflecting significantly in that direction. During the displacement of the diaphragm 191 in the direction of arrow B, the piezoelectric element 192 deforms by narrowing its diameter; during the period when the diaphragm 191 attempts to return in the direction of arrow A based on 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, is discharged through the discharge channel 172 to the area in front of the nozzle 150.

[0063] Because the discharge duct 172 has an opening area that increases as it exits the vibrating diaphragm 191, the adhesion of mist to the inner wall of the discharge duct 172 is suppressed even when the mist is spreading radially through it. The mist traps fine dust particles suspended in the air and falls as it is ejected from the front end of the discharge duct 172 until it adheres to the ground. Furthermore, the mist suppresses dust from flying off the ground after it adheres to it. Therefore, compared to the case where no mist is discharged, the nozzle 150 can draw in more dust when passing through the area where mist has adhered.

[0064] As the mist is expelled, the ground becomes wet. However, because the brushes 164 of the brush rollers 161 and 162 are hydrophilic, the mist adhering to the ground can be absorbed by the brushes 164. Therefore, the ground can dry quickly after cleaning.

[0065] Based on the discharge of mist, the removal rate of sebum on the ground is improved as follows.

[0066] To confirm the effectiveness of the mist discharge in removing sebum from the ground, the inventors prepared an artificial oil liquid with the composition shown in Table 1 below.

[0067] Table 1

[0068] Oleic acid 5.15g Cholesterol oleate 2.55g Palmitic acid 1.10g Squalene 0.66g Sudan III 0.038g

[0069] The inventors diluted the aforementioned artificial oil solution five times with ethanol and applied 80 μl to the ground. Furthermore, the inventors measured the reflectance of the area where the artificial oil solution was applied and evaluated the sebum removal rate using the measured reflectance, as shown in the following formula.

[0070] Formula 1

[0071]

[0072] The user moved the nozzle 150 back and forth 1 to 3 times over the area coated with the diluted solution, under conditions of mist emission (approximately 1 ml / min) and no mist emission. Furthermore, the data on "reflectivity before and after cleaning" in the above formula were obtained, resulting in the experimental results shown in Table 2 below. In the following experimental results, the only difference in the operation of the vacuum cleaner 100 during the back and forth movement of the nozzle 150 was the presence or absence of mist emission; the moving speed of the vacuum cleaner 100 and the rotational speed of the brush rollers 161 and 162 were the same.

[0073] Table 2

[0074]

[0075] As shown in Table 2 above, the removal rate of the diluent improved by more than 10% when the mist was discharged. In other words, the removal rate of sebum on the ground was improved based on the discharge of the mist.

[0076] In the above embodiment, mist is generated based on the vibration of the vibrating membrane 191. The vibrating membrane 191 is provided in the opening 181 on the front wall of the liquid storage section 180, therefore, the vibrating membrane 191 does not reduce the volume of the liquid storage section 180. Thus, the volume of the liquid storage section 180 is effectively utilized for storing water.

[0077] If the mist is generated by an ultrasonic generator, the ultrasonic generator needs to be immersed in water within the reservoir 180. Therefore, the volume of the reservoir 180 is reduced due to the ultrasonic generator. On the other hand, when the vibrating diaphragm 191 is used to generate mist, there is no reduction in the volume of the reservoir 180.

[0078] Furthermore, when mist is generated by an ultrasonic generator, a water column needs to stand upright on the water surface within the reservoir 180. Therefore, the reservoir 180 requires space for this water column, increasing its height. On the other hand, when mist is generated based on the vibration of the diaphragm 191, no space is needed in the reservoir 180 for this water column. Therefore, the reservoir 180 can be made thinner. Consequently, the receiving recess 171 for housing the reservoir 180 can be made shallower, suppressing an increase in the thickness (height) of the suction nozzle 150.

[0079] When the liquid reservoir 180 is received in the receiving recess 171, the upper side of the liquid reservoir 180 becomes substantially flush with the upper side of the suction nozzle 150. Therefore, when the user inserts the suction nozzle 150 into a narrow space in the vertical direction, the liquid reservoir 180 will not be blocked by furniture around that space.

[0080] In the above embodiment, the mist generating unit 190 is provided on the suction nozzle 150 that moves on the ground, so the mist is discharged near the ground. This prevents the mist from being discharged at a distance significantly from the suction nozzle 150. In particular, because the vibrating diaphragm 191 is tilted forward and the discharge channel 172 extends obliquely downwards, the mist is discharged obliquely downwards. Therefore, the mist can adhere to the ground near the suction nozzle 150.

[0081] Furthermore, the receiving recess 171 of the liquid reservoir 180 is formed on the rear housing portion 153, which is located behind the front housing portion 156 that forms the front end of the suction nozzle housing 151. Therefore, the vibrating diaphragm 191, which is mounted on the liquid reservoir 180, is positioned rearward relative to the front end of the suction nozzle 150. In this case, the mist does not fall to a position that is significantly away from the suction nozzle 150, but rather falls directly to the front of the suction nozzle 150. Therefore, less dry mist remains before the suction nozzle 150 passes over areas where mist has adhered. In other words, by positioning the vibrating diaphragm 191 rearward relative to the front end of the suction nozzle 150 (or the front end of the suction space 158), the reduction in the effect of suppressing dust dispersion due to mist can be prevented.

[0082] Because the mist is ejected forward while expanding radially from the vibrating diaphragm 191, it expands to a certain extent in the left and right directions before adhering to the ground. Therefore, it is possible for the mist to adhere to the ground over a wide area in the left and right directions.

[0083] The mist is discharged through the discharge channel 172 to the area in front of the nozzle 150. The opening area of ​​the discharge channel 172 increases as it moves forward away from the vibrating diaphragm 191, so even though the mist is discharged forward while expanding radially from the vibrating diaphragm 191, less mist adheres to the inner wall of the discharge channel 172.

[0084] It is assumed that if the mist is discharged through the vibrating membrane 191, air will enter the liquid storage section 180 through the discharge hole 194 of the vibrating membrane 191. However, since the inner surface of the vibrating membrane 191 faces obliquely upward, the air entering the liquid storage section 180 will leave the vibrating membrane 191 due to buoyancy, making it difficult for air to exist between the inner surface of the vibrating membrane 191 and the liquid in the liquid storage section 180. Therefore, the inner surface of the vibrating membrane 191 can maintain contact with the water in the liquid storage section 180, making it difficult for the air entering the liquid storage section 180 to hinder the formation of mist.

[0085] If the water level in the reservoir 180 decreases, mist will not form even if the vibrating membrane 191 vibrates. Therefore, as Figure 8 As shown, a discharge notification section 216 for informing the user whether mist has been discharged can also be provided on the nozzle 150. For example, the discharge notification section 216 may have a plurality of light-emitting diodes 217 that emit visible light toward the mist discharged from the diaphragm 191 and exiting from the front end of the discharge channel 172.

[0086] exist Figure 8Three LEDs 217 are provided on the left side of the opening portion at the front end of the nozzle 150's front housing 156 and the front end of the discharge channel 172. These LEDs 217 emit visible light diagonally forward to the right. Additionally, three LEDs 217 are provided on the right side of the opening portion at the front end of the discharge channel 172, and these LEDs 217 emit visible light diagonally forward to the left. When mist is sprayed through the discharge channel 172, the light emitted from the LEDs 217 is reflected by the mist. As a result, the user can visually identify the reflected light from the mist. On the other hand, when no mist is generated, no reflected light from the mist is generated. Therefore, the user can know that no mist has been generated. This facilitates the user's supply of water to the liquid reservoir 180.

[0087] When the viscosity of the water in the reservoir 180 increases, it becomes difficult for the water to enter the discharge port 194 of the vibrating membrane 191, causing a decrease in the amount of mist discharged from the vibrating membrane 191. To suppress this decrease in mist discharge, such as... Figure 9 As shown, a heater 221 for heating the water in the reservoir 180 and a temperature sensor 222 for detecting the temperature of the water in the reservoir 180 can be provided within the reservoir 180. The heater 221 and the temperature sensor 222 are electrically connected to a heating control unit 223 that controls the heater 221 based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 222. The heating control unit 223 is configured to provide feedback control for the heater 221 so that the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 222 approaches a specified target value.

[0088] Based on the results of this feedback control, the temperature and viscosity of the water in the reservoir 180 are maintained at a substantially constant level. Therefore, the amount of water that can enter the discharge hole 194 of the vibrating membrane 191 can be stabilized, and the amount of mist discharged can be maintained at a substantially constant level.

[0089] In the above-described embodiment, the hydrophilic brush 164 of the brush rollers 161 and 162 removes the fog adhering to the ground. Alternatively, an absorbent fabric can be provided on the bottom surface of the suction nozzle 150 to remove the fog. In this case, the suction nozzle 150 may not have brush rollers 161 and 162.

[0090] <Second Implementation Method>

[0091] Because the nozzle 150 is relatively large in the left-right direction, it is assumed that even if the mist is discharged while expanding radially, the area of ​​mist distribution in the left-right direction is not wider than the width of the nozzle 150. Therefore, as... Figure 10 As shown, an additional diaphragm 224 with the same structure as the diaphragm 191 can also be used. Figure 10 The front housing portion 156 and housing cover 152 are not shown in the diagram.

[0092] In the liquid storage section 180, an additional opening 225 is formed on the right side of the opening 181 on which the vibrating membrane 191 is installed, and the vibrating membrane 224 is configured to cover the opening 225. Therefore, the vibrating membranes 224 and 191 are arranged in the left-right direction.

[0093] An opening 226, which is longer in the left-right direction, is formed in the liquid storage section 180 and on the front side of the openings 181 and 225. Furthermore, although in Figure 10 Not shown, but the exhaust passage 172 of the front housing portion 156 forms a space that extends further forward and to the left and right from the opening 226.

[0094] like Figure 11 As shown, the diaphragm 224 is surrounded circumferentially by an annular piezoelectric element 227. Like the piezoelectric element 192 on which the diaphragm 191 is mounted, the piezoelectric element 227 expands and contracts radially when an AC voltage is applied. If the piezoelectric element 227 expands and contracts radially, the diaphragm 224 vibrates in the same way as the diaphragm 191.

[0095] To apply an alternating current voltage to the piezoelectric element 227, a pair of electrodes 228 and 229 are mounted on the piezoelectric element 227. These electrodes 228 and 229 are connected to electrodes 211 and 212 mounted on the front wall of the liquid reservoir 180 via electric field lines 231 and 232. Similar to the first embodiment, electrodes 211 and 212 contact electrodes 213 and 214 mounted on the front housing portion 156 of the suction nozzle housing 151 when the liquid reservoir 180 is housed in the receiving recess 171. Therefore, when the voltage application unit 215 outputs an alternating current voltage to electrodes 213 and 214 with the liquid reservoir 180 housed in the receiving recess 171, this alternating current voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element 227 via electrodes 211 and 212, electric field lines 231 and 232, and electrodes 228 and 229. At this time, the AC voltage is also applied to the piezoelectric element 192 through electrodes 211, 212, electric field lines 197, 198 and electrodes 195, 196, just as in the first embodiment.

[0096] When an alternating voltage is applied to piezoelectric elements 192 and 227, these elements expand and contract radially. As the piezoelectric elements 192 and 227 expand and contract, the diaphragms 191 and 224 vibrate, and mist is discharged from these diaphragms 191 and 224. Since the diaphragms 191 and 224 are arranged in the left-right direction, the mist can be dispersed over a wide area in the left-right direction.

[0097] The wider the lateral spacing between the vibrating diaphragms 191 and 224, the larger the fog dispersion area in the lateral direction. Therefore, the vibrating diaphragms 191 and 224 can... Figure 12The diaphragms 191 and 224 are positioned to the left and right of the front region relative to the opening of the connecting channel 157, as shown. If the diaphragms 191 and 224 are configured in this way, more mist will be dispersed into the left region (the region diagonally forward to the left relative to the opening of the connecting channel 157) or the right region (the region diagonally forward to the right relative to the opening of the connecting channel 157) of the front region than into the front region itself. This method of dispersing relatively less mist into the front region is advantageous in the following ways.

[0098] That is, the nozzle housing 151 is supported in a suspended state relative to the ground by brush rollers 161, 162 and rollers 165, 166, so that the nozzle housing 151 itself does not rub against the ground. Therefore, a gap is formed between the lower end of the housing cover 152 forming the front end of the nozzle housing 151 and the ground. Therefore, the suction force acting on the suction space 158 also acts on the area in front of the nozzle housing 151 through the gap between the housing cover 152 and the ground. The suction force acting on the area in front of the nozzle housing 151 is particularly strong in front of the connecting channel 157 that opens forward (i.e., the front area). If more mist is dispersed into the front area, more mist will be sucked into the suction space 158 through the gap between the housing cover 152 and the ground before adhering to the ground. In this case, the effect of preventing dust from flying by the mist adhering to the ground may be reduced.

[0099] On the other hand, if the spacing between the vibrating diaphragms 191 and 224 is increased to relatively reduce the amount of mist dispersed in the front area, less mist will be drawn into the suction space 158 through the gap between the housing cover 152 and the ground before adhering to the ground. Conversely, since the amount of mist dispersed in the left and right areas increases and the suction force acting on these areas is smaller, more mist will not be drawn into the suction space 158 and will adhere to the ground. As a result, the effect of suppressing dust dispersion through mist is improved.

[0100] It is believed that as the spacing between the vibrating diaphragms 191 and 224 increases, the width of the liquid reservoir 180 will also increase. To avoid this increase in the size of the liquid reservoir 180, such as... Figure 13 As shown, the orientation of the vibrating diaphragms 191 and 224 can also be improved. The left vibrating diaphragm 191 is configured to discharge mist diagonally forward to the left. The right vibrating diaphragm 224 is configured to discharge mist diagonally forward to the right. In this way, if the vibrating diaphragms 191 and 224 are installed in the liquid reservoir 180 with the orientation of discharging mist diagonally forward to the left and diagonally forward to the right, the left and right spacing of the vibrating diaphragms 191 and 224 will not be excessively increased.

[0101] In the second embodiment, the nozzle 150 may also be configured such that an exhaust notification unit 216 is installed on the nozzle 150, thereby allowing the user to visually identify whether mist has been expelled. Furthermore, the heater 221, temperature sensor 222, and heating control unit 223 can be used to control the water temperature in the reservoir 180 to be approximately constant.

[0102] In the first and second embodiments, the mist is discharged to the area in front of the suction nozzle 150. However, the location where the mist is discharged is only the periphery of the suction nozzle 150, and is not limited to the area in front of the suction nozzle 150. For example, as Figure 14 As shown, the additional liquid reservoir 230 can be installed on the suction tube 130 near the nozzle 150.

[0103] An opening 251 is formed at the bottom of the liquid reservoir 230 to allow water to flow out of the liquid reservoir 230. When the vacuum cleaner 100 is in use, the suction tube 130 becomes... Figure 14 The liquid reservoir 230 is tilted backward as shown. At this time, the opening 251 of the liquid reservoir 230 faces downward and backward.

[0104] A retaining sleeve 235 extends from the opening 251 of the liquid reservoir 230 to hold the vibrating diaphragm 233 and the piezoelectric element 234. The vibrating diaphragm 233 and the piezoelectric element 234 are mounted on the distal end of the retaining sleeve 235. The vibrating diaphragm 233 and the piezoelectric element 234 have a... Figure 6 The diaphragm 191 and piezoelectric element 192 shown have the same structure. Furthermore, the wiring between the voltage application section 215 and the piezoelectric element 234 can be configured along the distal portion of the suction tube 130.

[0105] exist Figure 14 In the vacuum cleaner 100, water in the reservoir 230 is atomized into mist by passing through the retaining cylinder 235 and the vibrating diaphragm 233, and this mist is discharged behind the nozzle 150. Therefore, the mist traps airborne dust behind the nozzle 150 and falls down, adhering to the ground behind the nozzle 150. As a result, dust behind the nozzle 150 is prevented from flying around. Furthermore, if the user moves the nozzle 150 backward, the dust is sucked away.

[0106] exist Figure 14 In the vacuum cleaner 100, the discharge notification unit 216 can be configured to visually identify whether mist is being discharged from the retaining cylinder 235. Furthermore, the water temperature in the liquid reservoir 230 can be controlled to be approximately constant using the heater 221, temperature sensor 222, and heating control unit 223.

[0107] exist Figure 14In the vacuum cleaner 100, a liquid reservoir 180 and the like are mounted on the nozzle 150. However, if a liquid reservoir 230 and the like are provided on the suction pipe 130, the liquid reservoir 180 and the like can be omitted.

[0108] <Third Implementation Method>

[0109] In the first and second embodiments, the mist is discharged to the periphery of the suction nozzle 150. Alternatively, the mist can be discharged into the suction space 158 formed inside the suction nozzle 150. In this case, the liquid reservoir 180 can... Figure 15 It is constructed as shown.

[0110] Figure 15 The liquid storage section 180 shown has a similar function to... Figure 14 Similar to the structure of the liquid storage section 230 shown, openings 181 and 225 are formed at the bottom of the liquid storage section 180. Furthermore, the liquid storage section 230 has two retaining cylinders 241 and 242 protruding downwards from the openings 181 and 225. These openings 181 and 225 open downwards toward the inside of the retaining cylinders 241 and 242.

[0111] The liquid storage section 180 was contained in Figure 16 The suction nozzle 150 shown has a receiving recess 171. Through holes 243 and 244 are formed at the bottom of the receiving recess 171 for inserting the retaining cylinders 241 and 242 of the liquid reservoir 180. (See attached image.) Figure 17 As shown, the retaining cylinders 241, 242 and the through holes 243, 244 are configured to be located on the upper side of the brush rollers 161, 162 inside the suction space 158 when the liquid storage section 180 is housed in the receiving recess 171.

[0112] The distal portions of the retaining cylinders 241 and 242 are exposed within the suction space 158, and the vibrating diaphragms 191 and 224 and piezoelectric elements 192 and 227 are held in these distal portions. At this time, the discharge holes 194 of the vibrating diaphragms 191 and 224 extend downwards from their inner surfaces, and the mist is discharged downwards. Furthermore, with the inner surfaces of the vibrating diaphragms 191 and 224 facing upwards, air entering the liquid reservoir 180 through the discharge holes 194 is buoyed away from the inner surfaces of the vibrating diaphragms 191 and 224 and accumulates in the upper part of the liquid reservoir 180.

[0113] Brush rollers 161 and 162 are disposed on the underside of the vibrating diaphragms 191 and 224. The mist discharged through the vibrating diaphragms 191 and 224 adheres to the brush rollers 161 and 162. Therefore, the brushes 164 of the brush rollers 161 and 162 are wet. When the brush rollers 161 and 162 rotate, the wet brushes 164 rub against the ground, causing dust on the ground to adhere to the brushes 164. Because the brushes 164 are hydrophilic, the transfer of mist adhering to the brushes 164 to the ground is inhibited. Therefore, the ground dries quickly after cleaning.

[0114] Holding cylinders 241 and 242 protrude downwards from openings 181 and 225, and vibrating membranes 191 and 224 are held within the holding cylinders 241 and 242 with the inner surface of vibrating membrane 191 facing upwards. Therefore, vibrating membranes 191 and 224 support the water in the liquid storage section 180. Thus, even if the water in the liquid storage section 180 is consumed to some extent, the inner surfaces of vibrating membranes 191 and 224 can maintain contact with the water in the liquid storage section 180. Therefore, mist can be generated for a long period of time.

[0115] In the third embodiment, the vibrating diaphragms 191 and 224 are configured to discharge mist directly downwards. However, the vibrating diaphragms 191 and 224 can simply discharge mist toward the brush rollers 161 and 162. For example, if the vibrating diaphragms 191 and 224 are configured diagonally above the brush rollers 161 and 162, they can also be configured to discharge mist diagonally downwards.

[0116] In addition, in the third embodiment, the water temperature in the liquid storage unit 230 can be controlled to be approximately constant by using the heater 221, the temperature sensor 222, and the heating control unit 223.

[0117] <Fourth Implementation>

[0118] To avoid obstacles on the ground during cleaning, it is conceivable that the user would perform a lifting maneuver, such as raising the nozzle 150, off the ground. During this lifting maneuver, if mist is continuously emitted, the ground may become wet in areas the user did not intend. To avoid this, the vacuum cleaner 100 can also be configured to stop emitting mist during the aforementioned lifting maneuver. For example, as... Figure 18 As shown, the vacuum cleaner 100 may include a ground clearance detection unit 173 configured to detect when the nozzle 150 leaves the ground.

[0119] In order to install the ground clearance detection unit 173 in the nozzle housing 151, Figure 18The bottom of the rear housing 153, as shown, has an upwardly recessed roller receiving portion 174. The roller receiving portion 174 opens downward toward the rear housing 153. The ground clearance detection unit 173 has a detection roller 175 disposed within the roller receiving portion 174 and a roller holding portion 176. The roller holding portion 176 is configured such that, when the suction nozzle 150 is placed on the ground and in a grounded state, only the lower end portion of the detection roller 175 protrudes downward from the roller receiving portion 174, allowing the detection roller 175 to be rotatably held. In this state, if the user moves the suction nozzle 150 forward or backward, the detection roller 175 rolls on the ground. Therefore, damage to the ground by the ground clearance detection unit 173 is prevented. Figure 19 As shown, the roller holding part 176 is configured such that when the suction nozzle 150 is lifted off the ground, it protrudes downward based on the weight of the roller holding part 176 and the detection roller 175.

[0120] The ground clearance detection unit 173 also includes a configuration capable of detecting whether the posture of the roller holding unit 176 is... Figure 18 and Figure 19 The attitude detection unit 177 is one of the attitudes shown. The attitude detection unit 177 is disposed within the rear housing portion 153 and is protected by the rear housing portion 153.

[0121] A vibration control unit 178, configured to control the voltage application unit 215, is also disposed within the rear housing portion 153. This is because the attitude detection unit 177 detects that the roller holding portion 176 has become... Figure 19 When the indicated posture is reached, the vibration control unit 178 stops applying voltage from the voltage application unit 215. On the other hand, when the posture detection unit 177 detects that the roller holding unit 176 has reached the indicated posture, the vibration control unit 178 stops applying voltage from the voltage application unit 215. Figure 18 When the posture is shown, the vibration control unit 178 allows the application of voltage from the voltage application unit 215.

[0122] By incorporating a vibration control unit 178 and a ground clearance detection unit 173, the voltage application from the voltage application unit 215 is stopped when the user lifts the nozzle 150 off the ground. As a result, the vibration generator 193 stops, and the mist discharge is interrupted. On the other hand, when the user moves the nozzle 150 forward or backward on the ground, the voltage application from the voltage application unit 215 is executed, and the vibration generator 193 causes the vibrating diaphragm 191 to vibrate. As a result, mist is discharged from the vibrating diaphragm 191.

[0123] The vibration control unit 178 and the ground clearance detection unit 173 can be applied to the vacuum cleaner 100 of the first embodiment to the third embodiment.

[0124] In embodiments 1 to 4, the liquid reservoir 180 can be separated from the nozzle 150. Alternatively, the liquid reservoir 180 may be integrally formed with the nozzle 150.

[0125] In embodiments 1 to 4, 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.

[0126] In embodiments 1 to 4, the suction nozzle 150 has a pair of brush rollers 161, 162. Alternatively, the suction nozzle 150 may have only a single brush roller.

[0127] In embodiments 1 to 4, 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.

[0128] (Effects, etc.)

[0129] The vacuum cleaner 100 according to the above embodiments has the following features and the following effects.

[0130] 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 to suck up dust based on the suction force of the suction source, and configured to be movable on the ground; a liquid reservoir for storing liquid; and a mist generating unit that generates mist from the liquid in the liquid reservoir that can be discharged to the periphery of the nozzle housing. The mist generating unit has a vibrating diaphragm configured to cover the opening provided in the liquid reservoir, and a vibration generating unit that vibrates the vibrating diaphragm to generate pressure fluctuations in the liquid in the liquid reservoir. 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 in the liquid reservoir to pass through when the vibrating diaphragm vibrates. The liquid passing through the plurality of discharge holes becomes mist and is discharged to the outside of the liquid reservoir while expanding radially.

[0131] 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.

[0132] The mist generating unit has a vibration generating unit and a vibrating membrane. When the vibration generating unit causes the vibrating membrane to vibrate, the liquid in the reservoir flows as follows: If the vibrating membrane displaces outward, the pressure near the inner surface of the membrane decreases. Based on this pressure decrease, the liquid in the reservoir flows towards the outwardly displaced vibrating membrane. Subsequently, if the vibrating membrane displaces in the opposite direction, the flow direction of the liquid near the inner surface of the membrane is opposite to the displacement direction. The liquid near the inner surface of the membrane collides with the inner surface and passes through 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 while expanding radially. Because the mist expands radially, it can wet the ground over a wide area. It should be noted that the multiple discharge holes of the vibrating 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. In this mist generating technology, an ultrasonic generator is unnecessary.

[0133] 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.

[0134] In the above configuration, when the roller body rotates within the suction space, the brush protruding from the outer circumference of the roller body rubs against the ground, sweeping away dust. In particular, dirt such as sebum adhering to the ground becomes easier to remove due to the mist; by rubbing this dirt with the brush, the removal of dirt adhering to the ground is promoted. Since the brush is hydrophilic, it can also absorb water adhering to the ground due to the discharge of mist.

[0135] In the above configuration, the liquid storage section can be disposed in the nozzle housing.

[0136] In the above configuration, the liquid reservoir is positioned within the nozzle housing, which is designed to move on the ground. Therefore, the vibrating diaphragm, which seals the opening of the liquid reservoir, is located near the ground. Consequently, mist is discharged near the ground through the vibrating diaphragm. Thus, the mist can wet the ground without unnecessarily spreading over a wide area.

[0137] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may further include: a suction tube connected to the nozzle housing at the rear of the suction space, so that dust drawn into the suction space based on the suction force of the suction source flows in. A connecting channel may be formed in the nozzle housing, extending forward from the distal end of the suction tube and opening toward the suction space in a manner that connects the flow path within the suction tube to the suction space. A brush roller may be configured to support the nozzle housing in a suspended state relative to the ground. A mist generating unit may be provided in the nozzle housing such that mist falls to the front of the nozzle housing, and a vibrating diaphragm may be configured such that less mist is discharged to the position in front of the opening of the connecting channel than mist is discharged to the position located diagonally forward to the left or right relative to the opening of the connecting channel.

[0138] In the above configuration, the brush roller supports the nozzle housing in a state where the nozzle housing is suspended relative to the ground, so the nozzle housing is unlikely to damage the ground.

[0139] Since the nozzle housing is connected to the suction tube at the rear of the suction space, a connecting channel is formed in the nozzle housing to connect the flow path of the suction tube and the suction space. This connecting channel extends forward from the distal end of the suction tube and faces the opening of the suction space. As a result, the suction force of the suction source acts on the suction space through the suction tube and the connecting section. However, the nozzle housing forming the suction space is suspended relative to the ground based on the brush roller, thus creating a gap between the nozzle housing and the ground. Through this gap, the suction force also acts on the front of the nozzle housing. This suction force is particularly strong in front of the opening of the connecting channel. If a large amount of mist is discharged in front of the opening of the connecting channel, most of the discharged mist will be sucked into the suction space through the gap between the nozzle housing and the ground before adhering to the ground. In this case, the ground is not very wet, and it is not very effective in reducing dust flying off the ground. To avoid such a situation, the vibrating diaphragm is configured such that less mist is discharged to the position in front of the opening of the connecting channel than to the position located to the left or right diagonally in front of the opening of the connecting channel.

[0140] In the above configuration, the diaphragm can be positioned on the left or right side relative to the opening of the connecting channel.

[0141] In the above configuration, since the vibrating diaphragm is positioned to the left or right of the opening of the connecting channel, more mist is discharged to the position located at the left or right oblique side relative to the opening of the connecting channel compared to the position in front of the opening. Therefore, less mist is drawn into the suction space through the gap between the nozzle housing and the ground before adhering to the ground.

[0142] In the above configuration, the vibrating diaphragm can be positioned in front and to the left of the opening of the connecting channel, so as to discharge mist from multiple discharge holes to the left and forward.

[0143] In the above configuration, the vibrating diaphragm can be positioned in front and on the right side relative to the opening of the connecting channel, so as to discharge mist from multiple discharge holes to the right and forward.

[0144] In the above configuration, even if the vibrating diaphragm is positioned forward relative to the opening of the connecting channel, more mist will be discharged to the left or right oblique position relative to the opening of the connecting channel compared to the position directly in front of it. That is, if the vibrating diaphragm is positioned so that mist is discharged to the left oblique front, and is positioned to the left relative to the opening of the connecting channel, the amount of mist discharged to the position in front of the opening of the connecting channel can be further reduced. Similarly, if the vibrating diaphragm is positioned so that mist is discharged to the right oblique front, and is positioned to the right relative to the opening of the connecting channel, the amount of mist discharged to the position in front of the opening of the connecting channel can be further reduced. Therefore, less mist is drawn into the suction space through the gap between the nozzle housing and the ground before adhering to the ground.

[0145] In the above configuration, multiple discharge holes can penetrate downwards or diagonally downwards from the inner side of the vibrating diaphragm.

[0146] In the above configuration, since the discharge port extends downwards or diagonally downwards from the inner side of the vibrating diaphragm, the mist can be discharged towards the ground. Therefore, the mist is not unnecessarily diffused over a wide area, and it can be effectively used for dust extraction.

[0147] In the above configuration, the vibrating diaphragm can be positioned rearward relative to the front end of the nozzle housing. Multiple discharge holes can extend forward from the inner side of the vibrating diaphragm, allowing the mist to fall to the front of the nozzle housing.

[0148] In the above configuration, multiple discharge holes extend forward from the inner side of the vibrating diaphragm, thus discharging the mist forward and causing it to fall in front of the nozzle housing. The vibrating diaphragm is positioned rearward relative to the front end of the nozzle housing, preventing the mist from falling far forward and significantly away from the nozzle housing. Therefore, less mist dries before passing the nozzle housing.

[0149] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may further include: an exhaust notification unit that informs the user that the mist has been exhausted by irradiating the mist that is exhausted from the vibrating diaphragm through multiple exhaust holes with visible light.

[0150] In the above configuration, if visible light is shone on the mist discharged from the vibrating diaphragm, the visible light is reflected by the mist. Based on this reflected light, the user can visually identify whether the mist has been discharged.

[0151] 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 rotation when in contact with the ground; a liquid reservoir for storing liquid; and a mist generating unit for generating mist from the liquid in the liquid reservoir that can be discharged into the suction space. 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 generate pressure fluctuations in the liquid in the liquid reservoir. 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 in the liquid reservoir to pass through when the vibrating diaphragm vibrates, the liquid passing through the plurality of discharge holes becoming mist and being discharged to the outside of the liquid reservoir while expanding radially.

[0152] In the above configuration, mist is discharged into the suction space while expanding radially based on the mist generation unit. As a result, the brush roller in the suction space becomes wet over a wide area. If the wet brush roller rotates while in contact with the ground, dust on the ground will adhere to the brush roller, performing wet cleaning of the ground. Compared to a dry brush roller, friction with a wet brush roller makes it easier to remove dirt, especially sebum and other impurities adhering to the ground. Therefore, by wetting the brush roller with mist, the removal of dirt such as sebum is promoted.

[0153] 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 protruding from the outer peripheral surface of the roller body.

[0154] 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.

[0155] In the above configuration, the diaphragm can be configured such that its inner surface faces upward or diagonally upward.

[0156] In the above configuration, if liquid is discharged from multiple discharge holes of the vibrating diaphragm due to diaphragm vibration, air may enter the reservoir through these discharge holes. If this air is maintained between the inner surface of the vibrating diaphragm and the liquid in the reservoir, it may hinder the formation of mist. To prevent air from existing between the inner surface of the vibrating diaphragm and the liquid in the reservoir, the vibrating diaphragm is configured such that its inner surface faces upward or obliquely upward. With this configuration, the air entering the reservoir leaves the vibrating diaphragm due to buoyancy, reducing the amount of air existing between the inner surface of the vibrating diaphragm and the liquid in the reservoir.

[0157] In the above configuration, the liquid storage section may have another opening on the left or right side relative to the opening, allowing liquid to flow out. The mist generating section may have another vibrating diaphragm configured to cover the other opening. The vibration generating section may be configured to generate pressure fluctuations in the liquid within the storage section by vibrating the vibrating diaphragm and the other vibrating diaphragm. The other vibrating diaphragm may have multiple discharge holes, each hole being a size that prevents liquid from passing through when the other vibrating diaphragm is stationary but allows liquid to pass through the storage section when the other vibrating diaphragm vibrates. The liquid passing through the multiple discharge holes becomes mist and is discharged to the outside of the storage section while expanding radially.

[0158] In the above configuration, another vibrating diaphragm is configured to cover another opening formed on the left or right side relative to the opening. Therefore, when the vibrating diaphragm and the other vibrating diaphragm vibrate based on the vibration generator, the mist can be supplied to a wide area in the left and right directions.

[0159] In the above configuration, the opening can be formed at the bottom of the liquid storage section.

[0160] In the above configuration, with the opening formed at the bottom of the liquid reservoir, even if the liquid level in the reservoir decreases to some extent, liquid can still be present on the upper side of the vibrating diaphragm that is configured to cover the opening. In other words, even if the liquid level in the reservoir decreases to some extent, the liquid can still contact the inner surface of the vibrating diaphragm. Therefore, even if the liquid level in the reservoir decreases to some extent, the mist generating section can still generate mist.

[0161] 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.

[0162] 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. At this time, the diaphragm vibrates, and mist is discharged through the discharge hole of the diaphragm.

[0163] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may further include: a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the liquid in the liquid reservoir; a heater for heating the liquid in the liquid reservoir; and a heating control unit for controlling the heater so that the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is close to a specified target value.

[0164] If the liquid temperature in the reservoir is low, the liquid viscosity increases, and the amount of liquid discharged through the multiple discharge holes, i.e., the amount of mist discharged, decreases. Conversely, if the liquid temperature in the reservoir is high, the amount of mist discharged increases. Thus, the amount of mist discharged is affected by the liquid temperature in the reservoir. To suppress this effect, in the above configuration, the heater is controlled by the heating control unit to keep the temperature of the liquid in the reservoir close to a specified target value. As a result, the viscosity of the liquid in the reservoir is kept approximately constant, and the amount of mist discharged becomes approximately constant.

[0165] In the above configuration, the vacuum cleaner may further include: a ground clearance detection unit for detecting whether the nozzle housing is in a state of being raised relative to the ground; and a vibration control unit for controlling the vibration generating unit. The vibration control unit may be configured such that when the ground clearance detection unit detects that the nozzle housing is in a state of being raised relative to the ground, it stops the vibration generating unit.

[0166] To avoid obstacles during cleaning operations, it is anticipated that the user will lift the nozzle housing relative to the ground. If the vibration generator maintains the vibration of the diaphragm while the nozzle housing is lifted relative to the ground, unnecessarily expelled mist will occur. To avoid this, in the above configuration, the vibration control unit is configured to stop the vibration generator when the ground clearance detection unit detects that the nozzle housing is lifted relative to the ground.

[0167] Industrial availability

[0168] 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; as well as, The mist generating unit generates mist from the liquid in the liquid storage unit, which can be discharged to the periphery of the nozzle housing; 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 of which is sized to prevent liquid from passing through when the diaphragm is stationary but allows liquid in the reservoir to pass through when the diaphragm vibrates. The liquid passing through the multiple discharge holes becomes mist and is discharged to the outside of the reservoir while expanding radially.

2. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that... Also includes: A 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; wherein, 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, The liquid storage section is disposed in the nozzle housing.

4. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 2, characterized in that... Also includes: A suction tube is connected to the nozzle housing at the rear of the suction space to allow dust drawn into the suction space based on the suction force of the suction source to flow in; wherein... A connecting channel is formed in the nozzle housing. This connecting channel extends forward from the distal end of the suction tube and opens toward the suction space in a manner that allows the flow channel inside the suction tube to communicate with the suction space. The brush roller is configured to support the suction nozzle housing in a suspended state relative to the ground. The mist generating section is disposed in the nozzle housing in such a way that the mist falls to the front of the nozzle housing. The diaphragm is configured such that less mist is discharged to a position in front of the opening of the connecting channel than mist is discharged to a position located to the left or right diagonally in front of the opening of the connecting channel.

5. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 4, characterized in that, The vibrating diaphragm is positioned on the left or right side relative to the opening of the connecting channel.

6. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 4, characterized in that, The vibrating diaphragm is positioned in front and to the left of the opening of the connecting channel, and is arranged to discharge mist diagonally forward and to the left from the plurality of discharge holes.

7. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 4, characterized in that, The vibrating diaphragm is positioned in front and to the right of the opening of the connecting channel, with the orientation of discharging mist diagonally forward and to the right from the plurality of discharge holes.

8. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The plurality of discharge holes extend downward or diagonally downward from the inner side of the vibrating diaphragm.

9. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 8, characterized in that, The vibrating diaphragm is positioned rearward relative to the front end of the nozzle housing. The plurality of discharge holes extend forward from the inner side of the vibrating diaphragm in such a manner that mist falls to the front of the nozzle housing.

10. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that... Also includes: The discharge notification unit informs the user of the discharge status by illuminating the mist discharged from the vibrating diaphragm through the plurality of discharge holes with visible light.

11. 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; as well as, A mist generating unit generates mist from the liquid in the liquid storage unit, which can be discharged into the suction space; 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 of which is sized to prevent liquid from passing through when the diaphragm is stationary but allows liquid in the reservoir to pass through when the diaphragm vibrates. The liquid passing through the multiple discharge holes becomes mist and is discharged to the outside of the reservoir while expanding radially.

12. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 11, 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.

13. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, 2, 11 or 12, characterized in that, The diaphragm is configured such that its inner surface faces upward or diagonally upward.

14. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, 2, 11 or 12, characterized in that, The liquid storage section has another opening on the left or right side relative to the opening, allowing liquid to flow out. The mist generating section has another vibrating diaphragm configured to cover the other opening. The vibration generating unit is configured to cause pressure fluctuations in the liquid within the reservoir by vibrating the vibrating diaphragm and the other vibrating diaphragm. Multiple discharge holes are formed on the other vibrating diaphragm. The discharge holes are sized to prevent liquid from passing through when the other vibrating diaphragm is stationary, but allow liquid in the reservoir to pass through when the other vibrating diaphragm vibrates. The liquid passing through the multiple discharge holes becomes mist and is discharged to the outside of the reservoir while expanding radially.

15. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, 2, 11 or 12, characterized in that, The opening is formed at the bottom of the liquid storage section.

16. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, 2, 11 or 12, 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.

17. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, 2, 11 or 12, characterized in that... Also includes: A temperature sensor detects the temperature of the liquid in the reservoir. A heater for heating the liquid in the reservoir; and, The heating control unit controls the heater to bring the temperature detected by the temperature sensor close to a specified target value.

18. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, 2, 11 or 12, characterized in that... Also includes: The ground clearance detection unit detects whether the nozzle housing is in a state of being raised relative to the ground; and... The vibration control unit controls the vibration generating unit; wherein, The vibration control unit is configured to stop the vibration generator when the ground clearance detection unit detects that the nozzle housing is in a state of being lifted relative to the ground.

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