A method of cleaning a cleaning apparatus and a cleaning apparatus system

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of cleaning equipment's pollution discharge method and cleaning equipment system.Pollution discharge method includes: trigger step, remove the rotation restriction of collection tank;Pouring step, collection tank is rotated to the inclined position to discharge waste down;Reset step, collection tank is reversed rotation reset under the action of reset power source.Cleaning equipment system includes cleaning equipment main body and pollution discharge base, cleaning equipment main body is equipped with shell, cleaning system, the collection tank that can be rotated downward, locking device and optional driving element;Pollution discharge base is equipped with trigger structure, when main body is placed on base, trigger locking device unlocking.The application does not limit the type, quantity and suction force mode of cleaning executor, pouring power source can be gravity or driving force, reset mode is matched, with the advantages of wide application range, trigger mode is various, reset is reliable, system is complete and the like.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of cleaning equipment technology, and in particular to an automatic sewage discharge method for cleaning equipment, and a cleaning equipment system using this method. Background Technology

[0002] Existing cleaning equipment, including floor scrubbers, robotic vacuum cleaners, and vacuum cleaners, mostly requires manual emptying of their sludge collection tanks, which is inconvenient and easily gets hands dirty. Although some equipment is equipped with automatic cleaning base stations, these often employ complex suction or rinsing systems, which are costly and still require manual intervention.

[0003] To address this issue, existing solutions have proposed automatic wastewater discharge methods. For example, the inventor's previous patent application (application number: 2026102997347) proposed a wastewater discharge solution for a dual-brush suction-free cleaning device. This solution unlocks the waste collection tank via a trigger mechanism, automatically emptys the waste using gravity, and then resets it via auxiliary wheels. This solution achieves automatic wastewater discharge on specific types of equipment with good results.

[0004] However, this solution is primarily designed for dual-brush devices without suction. For equally common single-brush devices and devices with suction (such as vacuum cleaners and floor scrubbers), direct application of this solution would require adaptation to the different cleaning system structures. Furthermore, this solution primarily uses mechanical triggering; additional modifications are needed for devices requiring electronic triggering or other drive mechanisms.

[0005] Therefore, how to provide a universal sewage discharge method that is more widely applicable and can be more flexibly applied to various types of cleaning equipment has become a technical problem that urgently needs to be solved in this field. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide a universal sewage discharge method that can be used in various types of cleaning equipment. This method is not dependent on the specific type, number, or suction method of the cleaning actuator and has wide applicability.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution:

[0008] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a method for draining the sludge collection tank of a cleaning device, comprising the following steps:

[0009] Triggering steps: Release the rotation restriction on the sludge collection box, allowing it to enter a tiltable state;

[0010] Pouring step: The sludge collection box is rotated downwards to an inclined position, so that its opening tilts downwards to discharge the internal sludge;

[0011] Reset procedure: Release the tilt holding of the sludge collection box, and the sludge collection box will rotate in the opposite direction under the action of the reset power source, returning to the initial position with the opening facing upward.

[0012] Preferably, in the tipping step, the power source for the downward rotation of the sludge collection box is gravity, or the driving force provided by the driving element.

[0013] Preferably, when the power source is a driving force, the driving element is a motor.

[0014] Preferably, the rotation axis of the sludge collection box is located on the rear, front, left, or right side of the sludge collection box.

[0015] Preferably, the triggering method for releasing the rotation restriction of the sludge collection box includes any one of mechanical triggering, electronic triggering, and magnetic triggering; the electronic triggering method includes receiving external command signals or triggering signals generated by autonomously recognizing the environment.

[0016] Preferably, the reset power source is matched with the power source for the tilting step:

[0017] When the power source for the tilting step is gravity, the power source for the reset step is the weight of the equipment itself.

[0018] When the power source for the tilting step is a driving force, the power source for the reset is the driving force provided by the driving element.

[0019] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a cleaning equipment system, comprising:

[0020] The main body of the cleaning equipment includes:

[0021] case;

[0022] A cleaning system, mounted on the housing, is used to pick up dirt from the surface to be cleaned;

[0023] The sludge collection box is rotatably connected to the housing via a pivot and can rotate downwards to empty sludge;

[0024] A locking mechanism for releasably locking the sludge collection box in a working position;

[0025] The cleaning equipment system is one of the following solutions:

[0026] Option 1: The locking mechanism is a mechanical locking device; the cleaning equipment system also includes a sewage discharge base, on which a trigger structure is provided; when the main body of the cleaning equipment is placed on the sewage discharge base, the trigger structure interacts with the mechanical locking device to trigger the unlocking.

[0027] Option 2: The locking mechanism is an electrically controlled locking component, which includes a controller and a drive element for driving the sludge collection box to rotate downwards and having a self-locking function, or includes an electrically controlled locking element; the electrically controlled locking element is a locking element controlled by a solenoid valve or a mechanical locking mechanism controlled by a motor; the main body of the cleaning equipment receives an electrically controlled trigger signal, and the controller controls the electrically controlled locking component to unlock according to the electrically controlled trigger signal; the electrically controlled trigger signal includes an external command signal or a robot autonomous identification signal; the cleaning equipment system includes a sludge discharge base or does not include a sludge discharge base; when a sludge discharge base is included, no trigger structure interacting with the electrically controlled locking component is provided on the sludge discharge base.

[0028] Preferably, the cleaning system includes at least one roller brush cleaning actuator.

[0029] Preferably, the cleaning system is a suction-type cleaning system or a non-suction mechanical cleaning system.

[0030] Preferably, the cleaning system includes two roller brush cleaning actuators arranged in front and behind, and the sludge collection box is disposed between the two roller brush cleaning actuators.

[0031] Preferably, the sludge collection box includes a left sludge collection box and a right sludge collection box, which are respectively arranged on the left and right sides of the equipment, and each is rotatably connected to the corresponding side of the housing through a rotating shaft, and can rotate outward and downward to dump sludge.

[0032] Preferably, a locking device is provided between the left and right sludge collection tanks. The locking device includes a latch bar that is slidably disposed between the left and right sludge collection tanks for simultaneously locking or releasing the left and right sludge collection tanks.

[0033] Preferably, the rotation axis of the sludge collection box is located on the rear side or any side of the sludge collection box.

[0034] Preferably, the locking device includes:

[0035] A movable snap-fit ​​connector, movably mounted on the housing or the sludge collection tank; and

[0036] An elastic biasing element acts on the movable latching member to provide a biasing force that tends to lock the movable latching member into a mating part disposed on the other.

[0037] Preferably, when the main body of the cleaning equipment includes the driving element, the driving element is a motor, and the motor is used to drive the sludge collection box to rotate downward.

[0038] Preferably, the motor has a self-locking function to maintain the working position of the sludge collection box when the power is off, thereby performing a locking function.

[0039] Preferably, the device further includes a controller and at least one sensing device, the sensing device being used to detect whether the main body of the cleaning equipment is placed on the drain base, and the controller controlling the motor to operate based on the detection signal from the sensing device.

[0040] Preferably, the main body of the cleaning equipment is further provided with auxiliary wheels, which are located on the side of the sludge collection tank away from its rotation center. These auxiliary wheels support the sludge collection tank in its working position when the equipment is placed on the ground, and serve as a fulcrum for the sludge collection tank to reset when the equipment is moved back to the ground from the drain base; wherein:

[0041] When the main body of the cleaning equipment relies on gravity to achieve sewage discharge and repositioning, the auxiliary wheel is a necessary structure;

[0042] When the main body of the cleaning equipment includes a drive element, the auxiliary wheel is an optional structure and can be selected to be set or not set according to design needs.

[0043] [Beneficial Effects]

[0044] 1. The method is highly independent and has a wide range of applications: The sewage discharge method of the present invention does not limit the power source of the dumping step, including both pure gravity and electric control drive, and can be widely used in various types of cleaning equipment, regardless of their working principle.

[0045] 2. Flexible rotation layout: The rotation axis of the sludge collection box can be set on the rear, front, left or right side, which is convenient for design according to the overall layout of the machine.

[0046] 3. The reset method matches the tilting method, resulting in good system coordination: Based on the power source of the tilting step, this invention rationally selects a matching reset method to ensure the overall coordination and economy of the technical solution.

[0047] 4. Excellent system integrity: The cleaning equipment works in conjunction with the sewage discharge base to achieve fully automatic sewage discharge, eliminating the need for manual operation and improving the user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0048] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the cleaning equipment according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention (rear rotation). Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the sludge collection box and locking device of the device shown in Embodiment 1 of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the locked state of the sludge collection box of the device shown in Embodiment 1 of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the device shown in Embodiment 1 of the present invention in the sewage discharge state; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the cleaning equipment in Embodiment 2 of the present invention (with two sludge collection tanks in the middle). Figure 6 This is an exploded view of the sludge collection box and locking device of the equipment shown in Embodiment 2 of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the locked state of the sludge collection box of the device shown in Embodiment 2 of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the device shown in Embodiment 2 of the present invention in the sewage discharge state. Figure 1 ; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the device shown in Embodiment 2 of the present invention in the sewage discharge state. Figure 2 ; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the cleaning equipment (purely electrically controlled sewage discharge) according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. Figure 11 This is an exploded view of the sludge collection tank and electrical control mechanism of the device shown in Embodiment 3 of the present invention; Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the electrically controlled locking state of the sludge collection tank in Embodiment 3 of the present invention; Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the device shown in Embodiment 3 of the present invention in an electrically controlled sewage discharge state;

[0049] In the diagram: Equipment body 10; Quick connector 10a; Housing 10b; Sewage discharge base 11; Touch control platform 11a; Spray head 11b; Filter box 11c; Sewage collection box 101; Left boss 101a; Right boss 101b; Rotary shaft column 101c; Auxiliary wheel 101d; Left latch bar 103L; Right latch bar 103R; Engaging surface 103a; Rear inclined surface 103b; Front inclined surface 103c; Spring 104; Sealing ring 105; Upper box 106; Filter screen 106a; Suction port body 107; Sewage suction channel 107a; Roller brush 108; Ground scraper 109; Equipment body 20; Quick connector 20a; Housing 20b; Sewage discharge base 21; Filter box 210; Top protrusion 210a; Spray head 211; Upper box 201; Sealing ring 201a Left sludge collection tank 202L; Right sludge collection tank 202R; Triangular clamp 202a; Auxiliary wheel 202b; Rotary shaft column 202c; Latch bar 203; Triangular clamp 203a; Latch bar inclined surface 203b; Spring 204; Left filter screen 205L; Right filter screen 205R; Front roller brush 206; Rear roller brush 207; Suction port body 208; Front sludge inlet channel 208a; Rear sludge inlet channel 208b; Left sludge inlet channel 209L; Right sludge inlet channel 209R; AI cleaning robot 30; Sludge discharge base 31; Motor unit 301; Sensor switch 301a; Sensor switch 301b; Drive shaft 301c; Motor 301d; Sludge collection tank 302; Contact piece 302a; Contact piece 302b; Rotary shaft column 302c; Left wheel foot 303; Right wheel foot 304. Detailed Implementation

[0050] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that the following embodiments are only for explaining the invention and do not constitute any limitation on the scope of protection of this invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made by those skilled in the art based on their understanding of the core ideas of this invention fall within the scope of the technical solutions of this invention.

[0051] I. General Description of the Invention

[0052] 1. Instructions for the cleaning system

[0053] The cleaning system described in this invention refers to an assembly of components used to pick up dirt from a surface to be cleaned, the core component of which is a roller brush cleaning actuator. A roller brush cleaning actuator is an actuating component that picks up dirt by rotation or cyclic rotation, including but not limited to:

[0054] Roller brush: includes a roller body rotatably mounted on a housing, the outer surface of which is covered with cleaning material. The cleaning material is used to contact the surface to be cleaned, pick up dirt or absorb liquid, and its specific forms include bristles, scrapers, cloth, absorbent sponge, etc.

[0055] Track roller brush: includes a fixed roller brush bracket, at least two rollers supported by the roller brush bracket, and an annular roller brush cloth surrounding the rollers, the annular roller brush cloth being able to rotate cyclically relative to the fixed roller brush bracket.

[0056] The cleaning system of the present invention can be implemented in two ways: suction type (i.e., equipped with a fan to generate negative pressure for dust collection) or non-suction mechanical type (i.e., relying solely on the mechanical action of a roller brush to pick up dirt). The following embodiments will be described in detail as needed.

[0057] 2. Supplementary explanation regarding the vacuuming process

[0058] The cleaning system described in this invention has different suction processes depending on whether a fan is configured:

[0059] Suction-type cleaning system: The negative pressure generated by the fan forces airflow carrying dirt through the suction channel into the sludge collection tank. Dirt settles in the tank, while the airflow carrying fine dust flows through the tank opening to the filter. After filtration, the clean airflow flows to the fan inlet, is pressurized by the fan, and then discharged from the fan outlet (located on the equipment housing or handle). When the sludge collection tank is locked, a sealing ring ensures a closed airflow path, preventing dirt leakage.

[0060] Non-suction mechanical cleaning system: No fan is required; the pickup and transfer of dirt is accomplished entirely by the mechanical action of the roller brush. The roller brush sweeps dirt from the surface to be cleaned, and the rotation of the roller brush pushes the dirt into the opening of the dirt collection tank. Under the action of inertia and gravity, the dirt falls into the dirt collection tank.

[0061] 3. Instructions regarding the liquid tank and water spray device

[0062] In some embodiments (such as floor scrubbers and floor mops), the cleaning equipment described in this invention may be equipped with a liquid tank and a water spraying device to wet the roller brush or the surface to be cleaned, thereby enhancing the cleaning effect.

[0063] Liquid tank: Located on the main body of the equipment, it is used to hold cleaning liquids (including clean water, cleaning solution, disinfectant, etc.). Its location can be determined according to the overall layout design, such as being located above the sludge collection tank (as in Example 1), to the side of the sludge collection tank, or behind it.

[0064] Water spray device: Located above or in front of the roller brush, and connected to the liquid tank via a hose. The water spray device includes at least one nozzle, which can spray cleaning liquid onto the surface of the roller brush or the floor to be cleaned.

[0065] Control methods: Water spraying can be controlled by a manual switch (such as a trigger on a hand lever), an electronic control button, or an automatic program.

[0066] 4. Explanation of the location of the suction fan

[0067] The suction-type cleaning system described in this invention has a suction fan (negative pressure source) that can be installed inside the handheld handle or inside the main housing of the cleaning device. Regardless of the fan's location, the basic airflow path is: suction port → sludge collection box → filter device → fan inlet → fan → fan outlet (located on the device housing or handheld handle). The quick-connect fitting serves a dual function in the suction-type solution, acting as both a structural connection and an airflow channel, but the final exhaust outlet is not located on the quick-connect fitting.

[0068] When the equipment is equipped with a suction-free mechanical cleaning system, there is no need to install a fan, and the quick connector is only used as a structural connector.

[0069] 5. Explanation of the power source for tipping

[0070] One of the core steps of this invention is the "pouring step": the sludge collection tank rotates downwards to discharge the sludge. The power source for this step can be varied:

[0071] Gravity-driven: The sludge collection box rotates downwards under its own weight and the weight of the sludge inside. This is the simplest and lowest-cost implementation method, and it is also the basic solution of this invention.

[0072] Driven by force: The sludge collection box is actively driven to rotate downwards by a drive element (such as a motor). This method does not rely on gravity and is suitable for lightweight sludge collection boxes or special working conditions.

[0073] 6. Explanation of triggering methods

[0074] Another core step of this invention is the "triggering step": releasing the rotational restriction on the sludge collection tank, allowing it to enter a tiltable state. This function can be achieved in several ways:

[0075] Mechanical triggering method: The sewage base is equipped with a mechanical triggering structure (such as a ramp or boss). When the equipment is placed on the sewage base, the mechanical triggering structure makes physical contact with the locking mechanism on the equipment, and the locking mechanism is directly forced to unlock through mechanical force.

[0076] Electronic triggering method: Unlocking is achieved through an electronic trigger signal. The electronic trigger signal includes the following sources:

[0077] Base sensing signal: The main body of the cleaning equipment is equipped with sensing devices (such as microswitches, Hall sensors, photoelectric sensors, etc.), and the sewage discharge base is equipped with corresponding triggering structures (such as bosses, magnets, reflectors, etc.). When the equipment is placed on the sewage discharge base, the triggering structure interacts with the sensing device, the sensing device generates a trigger signal and transmits it to the controller, and the controller controls the drive element to release the rotation restriction on the sewage collection box.

[0078] External command signals: such as commands sent by the user through the APP. After receiving the external command signal, the controller controls the drive element to unlock.

[0079] The robot autonomously recognizes signals, such as trigger signals generated after identifying sewage discharge points like floor drains, drainage outlets, and trash cans using visual recognition algorithms. After the device autonomously generates a trigger signal, the controller releases the lock on the drive components.

[0080] Magnetic triggering methods: Magnetic triggering includes two implementation forms:

[0081] Electromagnetic drive: An electromagnet is installed on the sewage discharge base, and an armature and mechanical transmission mechanism are correspondingly installed on the main body of the cleaning equipment. When the equipment is placed on the sewage discharge base, the controller triggers the electromagnet to be energized. The electromagnet generates magnetic force to attract the armature, and the movement of the armature is transmitted to the locking mechanism through the mechanical transmission mechanism, driving it to unlock.

[0082] Permanent magnet operation: A permanent magnet is installed on the sewage discharge base, and a corresponding ferromagnetic movable part is installed on the main body of the cleaning equipment. When the equipment is placed on the sewage discharge base, the permanent magnet and the ferromagnetic movable part come into contact, and the magnetic force directly attracts the movable part to move, which drives the locking mechanism to unlock through the mechanical transmission mechanism.

[0083] 7. Explanation of the function of the drive element

[0084] It should be noted that the driving element (such as a motor) described in this invention can perform different functions in different embodiments:

[0085] In gravity-based sewage discharge, the driving element may not be present;

[0086] In the electrically controlled sewage discharge method, the drive element can be used to drive the sewage collection box to rotate downwards;

[0087] In some electronic control schemes, the drive element (especially the motor with self-locking function) can also perform the locking function at the same time, that is, maintain the working position of the sludge collection box when the power is off. In this case, the drive element itself constitutes part or all of the locking mechanism.

[0088] 8. Explanation regarding the locking mechanism

[0089] The locking mechanism described in this invention is used to releasably lock the sludge collection tank in the working position. The locking mechanism includes two forms: a mechanical locking device and an electrically controlled locking assembly.

[0090] Mechanical locking devices: such as the latch and boss in Embodiment 1, and the common latch and triangular locking platform in Embodiment 2. This structure achieves locking by the engagement of the movable latching member and the mating part, provides a biasing force tending towards locking by an elastic biasing member (such as a spring), and unlocks by overcoming the elastic biasing force with external force.

[0091] Electrically controlled locking assembly: As described in Embodiment 3, it includes a controller and a drive element (such as a motor) for driving the sludge collection tank to rotate downwards and having a self-locking function, or includes an electrically controlled locking component (such as a locking component controlled by a solenoid valve or a mechanical locking mechanism controlled by a motor). Unlocking is achieved through an electrically controlled trigger signal.

[0092] All of the above-mentioned locking mechanism structures can realize the "releasable locking of the sludge collection box" function of the present invention. Those skilled in the art can choose the appropriate structural form according to the specific product design needs.

[0093] 9. Explanation regarding the matching of the reset method and the tipping power source.

[0094] The power source for the reset step and the tipping step of this invention is closely related. The reset method should match the tipping method:

[0095] Gravity-driven + self-weight-based reset: The tilting process is completed entirely by gravity, with no drive components on the equipment. Reset is also purely mechanical—relying on the equipment's own weight, with auxiliary wheels acting as a fulcrum. In this method, the auxiliary wheels are essential for achieving reset.

[0096] Driven by a motor + Reset by a motor: The tipping step is driven by a motor, and the equipment is equipped with a drive element. Reset can reuse the same drive element—the motor rotates in the opposite direction to drive the sludge collection tank to reset. In this method, reset does not rely on auxiliary wheels, therefore auxiliary wheels are optional.

[0097] 10. Explanation of auxiliary wheels

[0098] The auxiliary wheel described in this invention plays an indispensable role in gravity-based sewage discharge schemes: when the equipment is moved back to the ground from the sewage discharge base, the auxiliary wheel first contacts the ground, acting as a fulcrum to convert the equipment's own weight into a restoring torque, forcing the sewage collection box to rotate upwards and reset. Therefore, in embodiments that rely on gravity to achieve sewage discharge and reset, the auxiliary wheel is a necessary structure.

[0099] In implementations using electrically controlled sewage discharge (i.e., those incorporating drive components), the reset of the sludge collection tank can be accomplished by the drive component (such as a motor), thus auxiliary wheels are not necessary. Designers can choose to include auxiliary wheels (as a backup or auxiliary reset mechanism) or omit them, depending on product positioning, cost budget, and structural layout.

[0100] [Explanation of alternative structures for the auxiliary wheel]

[0101] It should be noted that the "auxiliary wheel" mentioned in this invention refers to a support element set on the side of the sludge collection tank away from its rotation center, used as a fulcrum to achieve gravity reset when the equipment is moved back to the ground. The "wheel" is only a preferred implementation of the support element, and its core function is to provide a low-resistance fulcrum that contacts the ground before the main body of the sludge collection tank.

[0102] Those skilled in the art will understand that the following alternative structures can also achieve the same gravity-based reset function:

[0103] Elastic support elements, such as spring feet, rubber spring feet, and telescopic support columns, achieve contact with the ground and act as a fulcrum through elastic deformation or telescopic movement;

[0104] Flexible support elements, such as flexible pads, silicone feet, and deformable support blocks, achieve contact with the ground and act as a fulcrum through the flexible deformation of the material itself.

[0105] Sliding support elements: such as sliders, slides, wear-resistant pads, etc., which contact the ground through sliding and serve as fulcrums;

[0106] Composite support structure: a combination of the above components, or a structure that is set together with auxiliary wheels.

[0107] Compared with the "auxiliary wheel" described in the embodiments of the present invention, the above-mentioned alternative solutions all adopt essentially the same means (setting a grounding support element at the bottom of the sludge collection box), achieve essentially the same function (converting the gravity of the equipment into a reset torque as a fulcrum), and achieve essentially the same effect (automatic reset of the sludge collection box), and can all achieve the purpose of gravity reset of the present invention.

[0108] 11. Explanation of the position of the axis of rotation

[0109] In this invention, the terms "rear side," "front side," "left side," and "right side" of the sludge collection tank are defined with reference to the main body of the cleaning equipment. Specifically:

[0110] Rear side: refers to the side of the sludge collection box facing the rear of the main equipment body;

[0111] Front side: refers to the side of the sludge collection box facing the front of the main body of the equipment;

[0112] Left side: refers to the side of the sludge collection box facing the left side of the main body of the equipment;

[0113] Right side: refers to the side of the sludge collection box facing the right side of the main body of the equipment.

[0114] The rotating shaft is located on the aforementioned side of the sludge collection box, allowing the sludge collection box to rotate downwards around the axis of the rotating shaft.

[0115] The height of the rotating shaft can be at the top, middle, or bottom of this side. The choice of the shaft's height is closely related to the sewage discharge method.

[0116] When using gravity-driven sewage discharge (without a driving component), to ensure the sludge collection box can rotate fully downwards under its own weight and achieve a sufficient discharge angle, the rotating shaft should preferably be located in the upper part of the side of the sludge collection box (i.e., near the opening). This is because when the center of gravity is farther from the rotating shaft, the rotational torque generated by gravity is greater, resulting in a larger rotation angle of the sludge collection box and more thorough sewage discharge. If the rotating shaft is located in the middle or lower part of the side, the center of gravity is closer to the rotating shaft, the gravitational torque is smaller, and the sludge collection box may not be able to rotate to the ideal discharge angle. Therefore, in a gravity-driven sewage discharge scheme, placing the rotating shaft in the upper part is the preferred option.

[0117] When using a motor-driven sewage discharge system (driven by a drive element), the height of the shaft has minimal impact on the discharge efficiency because the motor can actively drive the sewage collection box to a preset discharge angle. Therefore, in a motor-driven sewage discharge system, the shaft can be located in any area on the upper, middle, or lower side, allowing designers to choose flexibly based on factors such as overall machine layout and space constraints.

[0118] The purpose of this invention can be achieved as long as the rotating shaft is located on the aforementioned side and can cause the sludge collection box to rotate downward around its rotating shaft axis and the opening to pour out sludge downward. Specific Implementation

[0119] Example 1: Rear rotation + gravity drive + device self-gravity reset

[0120] like Figures 1-4 As shown, this embodiment provides a cleaning equipment system, including a cleaning equipment body 10 and a sewage discharge base 11.

[0121] The main body 10 of the cleaning equipment includes a housing 10b, a cleaning system, and a dirt collection system.

[0122] Cleaning System: The cleaning system includes at least one roller brush type cleaning actuator, namely a roller brush 108. The roller brush 108 is driven by a motor and is used to pick up dirt from the surface to be cleaned. Adjacent to the rear of the roller brush 108 is a suction port body 107, which has a suction channel 107a in the middle. At the bottom of the suction port body 107 is a floor-adhering scraper 109, which, during operation, lies flush with the ground to scrape away dirt and guide it into the suction channel 107a. The floor-adhering scraper 109 is made of a flexible material (such as rubber, silicone, etc.) to ensure a tight fit with the ground.

[0123] Sludge Collection System and Liquid Tank: The sludge collection system is located behind the cleaning system and includes a sludge collection tank 101. The sludge collection tank 101 is rotatably connected to the rear side of the housing 10 via a pivot 101c, the axis of which is horizontally positioned in the upper region of the rear side of the sludge collection tank 101. The sludge collection tank 101 can rotate rearward and downward about its pivot axis after being unlocked to empty the sludge.

[0124] A top housing 106 is installed above the sludge collection system to hold cleaning liquids (including clean water, cleaning solution, disinfectant, etc.), serving as a liquid tank. A rotatable quick-connect coupling 10a is located on the top of the top housing 106, for connecting a hand handle for user operation. A water outlet is located at the bottom or side of the top housing 106, connected via a hose to a water spraying device (not shown) positioned above the roller brush 108. The water spraying device includes at least one nozzle for spraying the cleaning liquid onto the surface of the roller brush 108 or the surface to be cleaned.

[0125] Water spraying and wetting function: During cleaning operations, the cleaning liquid in the upper housing 106 is delivered to the water spraying device via a hose through user operation (such as a trigger switch on the handheld lever) or electronic control, and sprayed onto the surface of the roller brush 108 to wet the roller brush 108 and enhance the cleaning effect on the floor stains; or it can be sprayed directly onto the floor to be cleaned to dissolve and soften the stains, making them easier for the roller brush 108 to pick up. When it is necessary to rinse the sludge collection tank 101, the cleaning liquid can be sprayed into the sludge collection tank 101 through the water spraying device (or through a separate rinsing pipeline, such as the water spray head 11b on the drain base 11).

[0126] Suction Configuration: When the equipment is equipped with a suction-type cleaning system, the upper housing 106 also has a suction channel that runs through the housing and connects to the internal channel of the quick connector 10a. A filter screen 106a is installed inside the suction channel to prevent dirt from being sucked into the upper suction channel. The suction channel is isolated from the liquid inside the liquid tank to ensure that liquid does not enter the suction system. A sealing ring 105 is provided around the opening of the sludge collection box 101 and between it and the upper housing 106 to keep the opening of the sludge collection box 101 sealed during suction.

[0127] When the equipment is equipped with a suctionless mechanical cleaning system, there is no need to install a suction channel and filter screen in the upper housing 106. The quick connector 10a is only used as a structural connector, but the liquid tank and its water spray device are still retained for wetting the roller brush or rinsing the floor to enhance the mechanical cleaning effect.

[0128] Vacuuming process: During vacuuming, the negative pressure generated by the blower (which can be installed inside the handheld handle or the equipment housing) causes airflow to enter through the vacuuming channel 107a, carrying the waste into the collection tank 101. The waste settles in the collection tank 101, while the airflow carrying fine dust enters the suction channel of the upper housing 106 through the sealing ring 105. After being filtered by the filter screen 106a, the clean airflow flows through the internal channel of the quick connector 10a to the blower inlet. After being pressurized by the blower, it is discharged from the blower outlet (located on the equipment housing or handheld handle). When the collection tank 101 is locked, the sealing ring 105 ensures a closed airflow path, preventing waste leakage.

[0129] If a non-suction mechanical cleaning system is used, there is no need to install a fan. The pickup and transfer of dirt is accomplished entirely by the mechanical action of the roller brush 108—the roller brush 108 sweeps the dirt from the surface to be cleaned, and the rotation of the roller brush pushes the dirt into the suction channel 107a. Under the action of inertia and gravity, the dirt falls into the collection box 101.

[0130] Locking Mechanism: A locking mechanism is provided on the housing 10b. In this embodiment, it is a mechanical locking device, including a left latch 103L and a right latch 103R, and a spring 104. Both the left latch 103L and the right latch 103R are provided with a locking surface 103a, a rear inclined surface 103b, and a front inclined surface 103c. The spring 104 is respectively sleeved on the left latch 103L and the right latch 103R, providing a biasing force that causes the left latch 103L and the right latch 103R to tend towards the locking position. The sludge collection tank 101 is provided with a left boss 101a and a right boss 101b that engage with the left latch 103L and the right latch 103R.

[0131] The bottom front of the sludge collection box 101 is equipped with an auxiliary wheel 101d, the lowest point of the rim of the auxiliary wheel 101d being lower than the main body of the sludge collection box 101. When the equipment is placed on a level surface, the auxiliary wheel 101d contacts the ground, supporting the sludge collection box 101 to maintain a horizontal working position.

[0132] Sewage discharge base triggering structure: The sewage discharge base 11 is equipped with a triggering structure for interacting with the locking mechanism on the cleaning equipment body 10 to trigger unlocking. Specifically, the top of the sewage discharge base 11 is equipped with a touch platform 11a, which is a raised inclined structure. When the cleaning equipment body 10 is placed on the sewage discharge base 11, the touch platform 11a contacts the rear inclined surfaces 103b on the left 103L and right 103R of the latch bar, forcing the latch bar to slide through the inclined surface engagement, thereby releasing the lock on the sewage collection tank 101.

[0133] Work process:

[0134] Triggering step: When the main body 10 of the cleaning equipment is placed on the drain base 11, the touch platform 11a contacts the rear inclined surface 103b on the left 103L and right 103R of the latch bar, forcing the latch bar to slide, so that its locking surface 103a disengages from the boss left 101a and boss right 101b on the sludge collection box 101, thereby releasing the lock on the sludge collection box 101.

[0135] Pouring steps: as follows Figure 4 As shown, after the lock is released, the sludge collection box 101 rotates backward and downward around its axis of rotation under the gravity of its own weight and the sludge inside, and the sludge is discharged.

[0136] Cleaning steps: After the waste is emptied, turn on the cleaning valve switch, and the water spray head 11b sprays pressurized water to rinse the waste collection box. The filter box 11c completes the filtration of large particles or large flakes of waste.

[0137] Reset Procedure: When the main body 10 of the cleaning equipment moves back to the ground from the drain base 11, the auxiliary wheel 101d first contacts the ground. The weight of the equipment itself forces the sludge collection box 101 to rotate upward and reset through the auxiliary wheel 101d as a fulcrum. At this time, the left boss 101a and the right boss 101b on the sludge collection box 101 respectively press the front inclined surface 103c provided on the left latch bar 103L and the right latch bar 103R, forcing the spring 104 to compress. When the sludge collection box 101 is completely rotated to the horizontal position, the left latch bar 103L and the right latch bar 103R are reset under the action of the spring 104 and relocked.

[0138] In this embodiment, the auxiliary wheel is a necessary structure for achieving reset.

[0139]

Variation Description

[0140] This embodiment uses a "rear-side rotation, gravity-driven, suction-type cleaning system" as an example for illustration, but those skilled in the art should understand that this is only one specific implementation of the present invention. The technical solution of this embodiment can also adopt the following variations:

[0141] Cleaning System Variant: The cleaning system in this embodiment can be replaced with a non-suction mechanical cleaning system. In this case, the pickup and transfer of dirt is accomplished entirely by the mechanical action of the roller brush, eliminating the need for a suction fan. The quick-connect fitting can still be used to connect the handheld handle for user hand operation, but it does not provide suction functionality. The remaining structures, such as the dirt collection box, locking mechanism, and waste discharge reset mechanism, remain unchanged, and the waste discharge method is exactly the same.

[0142] Variant location of suction fan: When a suction-type cleaning system is used in this embodiment, the location of the suction fan is not limited to inside the hand handle, but can also be set inside the equipment housing (such as above or behind the sludge collection box), and connected to the sludge suction port and quick connector through the internal air duct.

[0143] Sewage Discharge Drive Variation: The tilting and resetting steps in this embodiment can also be implemented using a motor drive. Specifically, a drive element (motor) can be installed between the sludge collection tank and the housing, driving the sludge collection tank to rotate downwards for sewage discharge and to reset upwards. In this case, the auxiliary wheel is an optional structure (it can be retained as a backup or removed), and the triggering method can be electronically controlled (e.g., the motor is controlled to move after the sensor detects the position). The sewage discharge principle of this variation is completely consistent with that of this embodiment, and it also realizes the "trigger-tilting-resetting" sewage discharge method of the present invention.

[0144] Example 2: Front and rear roller brushes + middle double-box layout + side flipping

[0145] like Figures 5-9 As shown, this embodiment provides a cleaning equipment system, including a cleaning equipment body 20 and a sewage discharge base 21.

[0146] The main body 20 of the cleaning equipment includes a housing 20b, a cleaning system and a dirt collection system, and a quick connector 20a.

[0147] Cleaning System: The cleaning system includes a front roller brush type cleaning actuator and a rear roller brush type cleaning actuator. The front roller brush type cleaning actuator is a front roller brush 206; the rear roller brush type cleaning actuator is a rear roller brush 207.

[0148] An integrated suction port body 208 is provided between the front roller brush 206 and the rear roller brush 207. The suction port body 208 has two independent suction channels:

[0149] Sewage inlet channel front 208a: Located at the front of the suction port body 208, corresponding to the front roller brush 206, used to receive the sewage picked up by the front roller brush 206;

[0150] Waste inlet channel 208b: Located at the rear of the suction port body 208, corresponding to the rear roller brush 207, and used to receive the waste picked up by the rear roller brush 207.

[0151] The bottom of the suction port body 208 is equipped with a floor-adhering scraper (not shown in the figure), which adheres flat to the ground during operation. This floor-adhering scraper can be a one-piece structure (covering both the front and rear suction ports simultaneously) or a separate structure (located at the bottom edges of the inlet channel 208a and the inlet channel 208b, respectively). The floor-adhering scraper is made of flexible materials (such as rubber or silicone) to ensure a tight fit to the ground while allowing passage through slightly uneven surfaces. It is used to scrape away dirt and guide it into the corresponding suction channel under suction or mechanical action.

[0152] Upper housing: An upper housing 201 is provided above the sludge collection system. The upper housing 201 can perform one or more of the following functions according to product design requirements:

[0153] As a liquid tank: it is used to hold cleaning liquids (including clean water, cleaning solution, disinfectant, etc.), and is connected to a water spray device (not shown in the figure) located above the front roller brush 206 and / or the rear roller brush 207 via a hose, for wetting the roller brush or the ground to be cleaned and enhancing the cleaning effect;

[0154] Contains a suction fan: When the equipment is equipped with a suction cleaning system, the suction fan can be installed inside or above the upper housing 201, simplifying the overall structure;

[0155] Accommodating circuit components: Used to accommodate electronic components such as control circuit boards, batteries, and sensors, thereby optimizing the overall layout of the device.

[0156] A quick connector 20a is located at the top center of the upper housing 201. The quick connector 20a is used to connect a handheld handle for user operation. When the equipment is equipped with a suction-type cleaning system, the quick connector 20a can also serve as a connection interface (airflow channel) for the suction device; when the equipment is equipped with a non-suction mechanical cleaning system, the quick connector 20a is used only as a structural connector. If the upper housing 201 serves as both a liquid tank and a suction fan, an internal isolation structure is installed to ensure the separation of the liquid from electrical components, preventing short circuits or damage.

[0157] The left inlet channel 209L and the right inlet channel 209R are located between the front inlet channel 208a and the rear inlet channel 208b, at the center of the upper box 201; the left filter screen 205L and the right filter screen 205R are installed above the left inlet channel 209L and the right inlet channel 209R.

[0158] Sludge Collection Tanks: The sludge collection system includes a left sludge collection tank 202L and a right sludge collection tank 202R, which are symmetrically installed on the left and right sides of the equipment, located between the front roller brush 206 and the rear roller brush 207. Both the left sludge collection tank 202L and the right sludge collection tank 202R are equipped with a triangular mounting bracket 202a, an auxiliary wheel 202b, and a rotating shaft column 202c. The rotating shaft column 202c connects the two sides of the housing 20b via a shaft. The rotating shaft axes of the left sludge collection tank 202L and the right sludge collection tank 202R are parallel to each other and horizontally positioned, both located in the upper area of ​​the left and right sides.

[0159] A sealing ring 201a is provided between the upper box 201 and the left sludge collection box 202L and the right sludge collection box 202R. When the left sludge collection box 202L and the right sludge collection box 202R are locked during sludge suction, their openings remain sealed to ensure that sludge is effectively sucked into the sludge collection box.

[0160] Locking Mechanism: In this embodiment, the locking mechanism is a mechanical locking device. A latch 203 is provided between the left sludge collection tank 202L and the right sludge collection tank 202R. The latch 203 is slidably fixed in the middle position of the suction port body 208. Each side of the latch 203 is provided with a triangular locking platform 203a, which engages with the triangular locking platform 202a on the left sludge collection tank 202L and the right sludge collection tank 202R, respectively. Each end of the latch 203 has a latch sloping surface 203b. Springs 204 are installed at the two inner ends of the latch 203 and are separated by a rib provided in the middle of the suction port body 208. The two springs 204 provide biasing force for the latch 203 to return to its original position forward or backward.

[0161] Structural advantages: This embodiment uses a single latch 203 to simultaneously latch the left sludge collection tank 202L and the right sludge collection tank 202R, which has the following advantages:

[0162] Compact structure: A single latch controls the locking and unlocking of two sludge collection boxes simultaneously, reducing the number of parts and saving internal space.

[0163] Low cost: Compared to setting up a separate locking device for each sludge collection box, this solution reduces the number of parts, lowers manufacturing costs, and reduces assembly time;

[0164] Synchronous and reliable: The locking and unlocking of the left and right sludge collection boxes are completely synchronized, avoiding problems such as poor sealing or unlocking failure caused by asynchronous locking of the left and right sides;

[0165] Two-way triggering: Both ends of the latch 203 are provided with latch bevels 203b. Regardless of whether the front or rear of the main body 20 is placed on the sewage base 21, it can be unlocked through the triggering structure. Users do not need to distinguish the front and rear directions of the equipment.

[0166] Sewage discharge base triggering structure: The sewage discharge base 21 is provided with a triggering structure for interacting with the locking mechanism on the cleaning equipment body 20 to trigger unlocking. Specifically, the top of the filter box 210 of the sewage discharge base 21 is provided with a top protrusion 210a, which is a raised block structure. When the cleaning equipment body 20 is placed on the sewage discharge base 21, the top protrusion 210a contacts the latch bar inclined surface 203b at one end of the latch bar 203. Through the inclined surface engagement, the latch bar 203 is forced to slide axially, releasing the lock on the left sludge collection tank 202L and the right sludge collection tank 202R.

[0167] Sewage suction process: During sewage suction, the negative pressure generated by the blower (which can be installed in the hand handle, the upper box 201, or the equipment housing) causes the airflow to enter from the front 208a and the rear 208b of the sewage inlet body 208.

[0168] The dirt picked up by the front roller brush 206 is scraped off by the ground scraper on the front side of the bottom of the suction body 208 and enters the dirt inlet channel 208a with the airflow.

[0169] The dirt picked up by the rear roller brush 207 is scraped off by the ground scraper on the rear side of the bottom of the suction body 208, and then enters the dirt inlet channel 208b with the airflow.

[0170] Waste falls into the left waste collection box 202L and the right waste collection box 202R through the waste inlet channel 209L on the left and waste inlet channel 209R on the right, respectively.

[0171] Dirt settles in the sludge collection box. The airflow carrying fine dust passes through the left filter screen 205L and the right filter screen 205R before entering the upper box 201. If a fan is installed in the upper box 201, the clean airflow enters the fan through the fan inlet, is pressurized, and is discharged from the fan outlet (located on the equipment housing or the hand handle). If the fan is installed inside the hand handle, the clean airflow flows to the fan inlet through the internal channel of the quick connector 20a.

[0172] If a suction-free mechanical cleaning system is used, there is no need to install a fan. The pickup and transfer of dirt is accomplished entirely by the mechanical action of the front roller brush 206 and the rear roller brush 207—the roller brushes sweep the dirt from the surface to be cleaned, and after being scraped by the ground scraper at the bottom of the suction port body 208, the rotational motion of the roller brushes pushes the dirt into the corresponding dirt inlet channel, where it falls into the dirt collection box under the action of inertia and gravity.

[0173] Work process:

[0174] Triggering steps: When the main body 20 of the equipment is placed into the drain base 21, the top protrusion 210a contacts the latching bar inclined surface 203b at one end of the latching bar 203, forcing the spring 204 at that end to compress, causing the latching surface of the triangular locking platform 203a of the latching bar 203 to separate from the latching surfaces of the triangular locking platforms 202a of the left sludge collection tank 202L and the right sludge collection tank 202R, and simultaneously releasing the lock on the left and right sludge collection tanks.

[0175] Unloading procedure: After the lock is released, the left sludge collection tank 202L and the right sludge collection tank 202R rotate downwards and to the sides respectively around their respective axes of rotation under their own gravity, and the sludge is discharged.

[0176] Reset Procedure: When the main body 20 of the equipment leaves the sewage base 21 and is placed back on the ground, the auxiliary wheel 202b touches the ground first. Under the force of the equipment's gravity, the left sewage collection tank 202L and the right sewage collection tank 202R rotate upwards around their respective axes of rotation to reset. During the reset process, the inclined surfaces of the triangular locking platforms 202a on the left sewage collection tank 202L and the right sewage collection tank 202R contact and press against the inclined surfaces of the triangular locking platforms 203a on the latch bar 203, forcing the latch bar 203 to slide axially, allowing the triangular locking platforms 203a to avoid the triangular locking platforms 202a. After the sewage collection tanks are fully reset, the elastic force of the two springs 204 causes the latch bar 203 to return to the middle position, and the triangular locking platforms 203a and 202a re-latch, completing the locking process. The main body of the equipment 20 can then resume cleaning operations.

[0177]

Variation Description

[0178] This embodiment uses a "dual-box layout, side-flipping, gravity-driven, and suction-type cleaning system" as an example for illustration, but those skilled in the art should understand that this is only one specific implementation of the present invention. The technical solution of this embodiment can also adopt the following variations:

[0179] Cleaning System Variant: The cleaning system in this embodiment can be replaced with a non-suction mechanical cleaning system. In this case, the pickup and transfer of dirt is accomplished entirely by the mechanical action of the front and rear roller brushes, eliminating the need for a suction fan. The quick-connect fitting can still be used to connect the handheld handle for user hand operation, but it does not provide suction functionality. The remaining structures, such as the dirt collection box, locking mechanism, and waste discharge reset mechanism, remain unchanged, and the waste discharge method is exactly the same.

[0180] Variant location of suction fan: When a suction cleaning system is used in this embodiment, the location of the suction fan is not limited to inside the hand handle, but can also be set inside the upper housing 201 or other locations on the equipment housing, and connected to the suction port and quick connector through the internal air duct.

[0181] Sewage Discharge Drive Variation: The tilting and resetting steps of this embodiment can also be implemented using a motor drive. Specifically, drive elements (motors) can be respectively installed between the left and right sludge collection tanks and the housing, with the motors driving the sludge collection tanks to rotate outward and downward for sewage discharge and upward for resetting. When using a motor drive, the auxiliary wheel is an optional structure (it can be retained as a backup or removed), and the triggering method can be electronically controlled (e.g., the motor is controlled to move after the sensor detects a position). The sewage discharge principle of this variation is completely consistent with that of this embodiment, and it also realizes the "trigger-tilting-resetting" sewage discharge method of the present invention.

[0182] Example 3: AI Cleaning Robot (Motor-Driven Sewage Discharge)

[0183] like Figures 10-13 As shown, this embodiment provides a cleaning equipment system, including an AI cleaning robot 30 and a sewage discharge base 31.

[0184] The AI ​​cleaning robot 30 includes: a shell, a walking system, a cleaning system, a dirt collection system, an AI sensing system, and a control system.

[0185] The walking system includes left wheel 303 and right wheel 304, enabling the robot to move, position itself, and adjust its posture autonomously.

[0186] Cleaning system: includes at least one roller brush type cleaning actuator for picking up dirt from the surface to be cleaned. This embodiment does not limit the specific type of cleaning system—it can be a suction cleaning system (i.e., equipped with a fan to generate negative pressure to suck up dust) or a non-suction mechanical cleaning system (i.e., relying solely on the mechanical action of the roller brush to pick up dirt).

[0187] The sludge collection system includes a sludge collection tank 302, contact plates 302a and 302b, and a rotating shaft 302c. The sludge collection tank 302 is rotatably connected to the housing via the rotating shaft 302c. The axis of the rotating shaft 302c is located on the upper side. The sludge collection tank 302 can rotate downwards around its rotating shaft axis to empty sludge after the lock is released.

[0188] Control system: includes motor unit 301, sensor switch 301a, sensor switch 301b, drive shaft 301c, drive element (motor 301d), and main controller. The drive element (motor 301d) is a motor with self-locking function. When the motor is powered off, its internal self-locking mechanism can maintain the working position of the sludge collection box 302 without the need for an independent mechanical locking component.

[0189] AI perception systems include visual sensors (such as cameras and depth cameras), LiDAR, etc., for environmental perception, target recognition, and localization.

[0190] Communication system: Supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular networks, etc., for communication with user terminals (such as mobile apps).

[0191] Wastewater discharge base trigger structure: The wastewater discharge base 31 is equipped with a trigger structure for interacting with the sensing device on the AI ​​cleaning robot 30 to trigger an unlock signal. Specifically, the top of the wastewater discharge base 31 is equipped with a trigger structure, which can be any of the following: a boss, a magnet, or a reflector, depending on the type of sensing device.

[0192] When the sensing device is a micro switch, the triggering structure is a boss, which is triggered by mechanical contact.

[0193] When the sensing device is a Hall sensor, the triggering structure is a magnet, which is triggered by a change in the magnetic field;

[0194] When the sensing device is a photoelectric sensor, the triggering structure is a reflector, which is triggered by light reflection.

[0195] The AI ​​cleaning robot 30 is equipped with a corresponding sensing device (such as a micro switch, Hall sensor, photoelectric sensor, etc.). When the AI ​​cleaning robot 30 is placed on the sewage discharge base 31, the sensing device interacts with the triggering structure, the sensing device generates a trigger signal and transmits it to the controller. The controller controls the drive element (motor 301d) to release the self-locking according to the trigger signal and execute the sewage discharge procedure.

[0196] Work process:

[0197] Triggering steps: The trigger signal can be sourced from any of the following methods:

[0198] Base trigger: The AI ​​cleaning robot 30 enters the sewage discharge base 31. The sensing device on the robot interacts with the triggering structure on the sewage discharge base 31. The sensing device generates a trigger signal and transmits it to the controller. The controller sends a command to the drive element (motor 301d). The drive element is powered on and releases its self-locking mechanism.

[0199] APP Trigger: When the user selects the "Go to Discharge" function on the APP, the robot autonomously navigates to the discharge area specified by the user (such as floor drain or trash can). Upon arrival, the controller receives external command signals and sends commands to the drive element (motor 301d). The drive element is powered on and releases its self-locking mechanism.

[0200] Visual autonomous triggering: The AI ​​perception system uses visual recognition algorithms to identify targets such as floor drains, drainage outlets, and trash cans that can be used as sewage discharge points. When the preset sewage discharge triggering conditions are met (such as the sewage collection tank being full or the cleaning task being completed), the robot autonomously navigates to the sewage discharge point. The controller sends a command to the drive element (motor 301d) based on the robot's autonomous recognition signal, and the drive element is powered on to release the self-lock.

[0201] Tilting procedure: The drive element (motor 301d) drives the sludge collection box 302 to rotate downward to discharge sludge, and stops when the contact piece 302a triggers the sensor switch 301a.

[0202] Reset Procedure: After the equipment leaves the drain base or drain point, the controller sends a reverse drive command to the drive element (motor 301d). The drive element reverses the drive to reset the sludge collection box 302 upwards. The drive element stops when the contact piece 302b triggers the sensor switch 301b. The drive element is then de-energized and self-locked, maintaining the working position of the sludge collection box 302.

[0203] In this embodiment, since the tilting and resetting are driven by a motor, the auxiliary wheel is an optional structure and can be set or not according to design needs.

[0204] [Supplementary Information Regarding the Cleaning System]

[0205] This embodiment does not limit the specific form of the cleaning system. Regardless of the cleaning principle used by the equipment, as long as its sludge collection tank adopts the "trigger-pour-reset" sludge discharge method described in this embodiment, the purpose of this invention can be achieved.

[0206] Specifically:

[0207] If a suction-type cleaning system is used, the blower can be placed in an appropriate position inside the robot housing (such as above or behind the sludge collection tank), and the sludge suction channel connects the cleaning actuator and the sludge collection tank to ensure that the dirt is effectively sucked into the sludge collection tank.

[0208] If a suctionless mechanical cleaning system is used, there is no need to install a fan; the picking up and moving of dirt is accomplished entirely by the mechanical action of the roller brush.

[0209] [Supplementary Explanation Regarding Motor Self-Locking]

[0210] In this embodiment, the drive element (motor 301d) is a motor with a self-locking function. When the power is off, the self-locking mechanism maintains the working position of the sludge collection box 302. For most household cleaning equipment, motor self-locking is sufficient to meet the usage requirements.

[0211] For applications with high dirt loads or higher safety requirements (such as commercial cleaning equipment), an auxiliary locking device can be added to this embodiment to improve reliability. The auxiliary locking device can take the following forms:

[0212] Electromagnetic latch: An electromagnet-driven latch is installed between the sludge collection tank 302 and the housing. Specifically, the electromagnet is installed on the housing near the opening of the sludge collection tank 302, and a latch rod is retractably installed inside the electromagnet. A latch hole is provided at a corresponding position in the sludge collection tank 302. When the sludge collection tank 302 is reset to its original position, the electromagnet is de-energized, and the latch rod is inserted into the latch hole under the action of a spring, achieving auxiliary locking. During sewage discharge, the electromagnet is energized, the latch rod retracts to release the sludge collection tank, and the action is synchronized with the release of the self-locking mechanism of the motor.

[0213] Mechanical assisted latch: A resilient latch is provided between the sludge collection tank 302 and the housing. Specifically, the resilient latch is installed on the housing, and a corresponding engaging boss is provided on the sludge collection tank 302. When the sludge collection tank 302 is reset to its original position, the resilient latch automatically engages with the boss to achieve assisted locking; during sludge discharge, the resilient latch is disengaged from the boss by a lever driven by an electromagnet or motor, thereby unlocking the tank.

[0214] Dual-motor redundancy: Two self-locking motors are used for parallel drive. The two motors can be symmetrically installed at both ends of the shaft of the sludge collection tank 302. If the self-locking of one motor fails, the other motor can still remain locked.

[0215] The aforementioned auxiliary locking device, in conjunction with the motor's self-locking mechanism, ensures reliable locking of the sludge collection tank under various operating conditions. Those skilled in the art can select an appropriate auxiliary locking scheme based on specific product design requirements.

[0216] Gravity-based sewage discharge alternative (supplementary explanation of this embodiment)

[0217] It should be noted that the AI ​​cleaning robot 30 described in this embodiment can also achieve automatic sewage discharge using the gravity sewage discharge method of the present invention without being equipped with a drive component (motor). In this case, its structure and working principle are basically the same as the gravity sewage discharge scheme in Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2, as detailed below:

[0218] Structural adjustment:

[0219] The drive component (motor 301d) and related transmission mechanism were removed;

[0220] The sludge collection box 302 is rotatably connected to the housing via a rotating shaft located on the upper side, which rotates downwards by gravity.

[0221] An independent mechanical locking device (such as a latch bar engaging with a boss) is provided for releasably locking the sludge collection box;

[0222] An auxiliary wheel is installed, with its lowest point being lower than the main body of the sludge collection box, to achieve gravity reset.

[0223] A dedicated drain base must be provided, which has a mechanical triggering structure (such as a boss).

[0224] Work process:

[0225] 1. The AI ​​cleaning robot autonomously navigates to the dedicated waste disposal base and accurately positions itself;

[0226] 2. The mechanical triggering structure on the sewage discharge base makes physical contact with the locking device, overcoming the elastic bias force and releasing the lock on the sewage collection box;

[0227] 3. The sludge collection box rotates downwards under its own weight and the weight of the sludge inside, and the sludge is discharged;

[0228] 4. When the equipment leaves the sewage discharge base, the auxiliary wheel first contacts the ground, and the equipment's own weight forces the sewage collection box to rotate upward and reset through the auxiliary wheel as a fulcrum;

[0229] 5. After the reset is completed, the locking device will automatically relock under the action of elastic bias force.

[0230] Application Notes: The difference between this gravity-driven sewage discharge alternative and the aforementioned motor-driven sewage discharge alternative lies in:

[0231] The tilting force comes from gravity, not an electric motor;

[0232] The reset power comes from the equipment's own weight (via auxiliary wheels), not from the motor;

[0233] The unlocking is triggered by the mechanical mechanism of the base and cannot be unlocked remotely by electric control (but the robot can navigate to the base via an APP or visual perception).

[0234] It has lower costs, but relatively lower levels of automation.

[0235] This alternative solution follows the same gravity-based sewage discharge principle as that in Embodiments 1 and 2, and also achieves the "trigger-tilt-reset" sewage discharge method of the present invention.

[0236] This invention can be widely applied to various household or commercial cleaning equipment, including floor scrubbers, robot vacuums, vacuum cleaners, floor mops, etc.

Claims

1. A method for controlling the sludge collection tank of a cleaning device, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: The triggering step releases the rotation restriction on the sludge collection box, allowing it to enter a tiltable state; the tilting step rotates the sludge collection box downwards to a tilted position, causing its opening to tilt downwards to discharge internal sludge; the reset step releases the tilt retention of the sludge collection box, and the sludge collection box rotates in the opposite direction under the action of the reset power source, returning to its initial position with the opening facing upwards.

2. The sewage discharge method according to claim 1, characterized in that, During the tipping step, the downward rotation of the sludge collection box is powered by gravity or by the driving force provided by the drive element.

3. The sewage discharge method according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the power source is driving force, the driving element is an electric motor.

4. The sewage discharge method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotation axis of the sludge collection box is located at the rear, front, left, or right side of the sludge collection box.

5. The sewage discharge method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The triggering method for releasing the rotation restriction of the sludge collection box includes any one of mechanical triggering, electrical triggering, and magnetic triggering; the electrical triggering method includes receiving external command signals or triggering signals generated by autonomously recognizing the environment.

6. The sewage discharge method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reset power source is matched with the power source of the tilting step: when the power source of the tilting step is gravity, the reset power source is the weight of the equipment itself; when the power source of the tilting step is driving force, the reset power source is the driving force provided by the driving element.

7. A cleaning equipment system, characterized in that, include: A cleaning equipment body, comprising: a housing; a cleaning system disposed on the housing for picking up dirt from surfaces to be cleaned; a dirt collection tank rotatably connected to the housing via a pivot, capable of rotating downwards to empty dirt; and a locking mechanism for releasably locking the dirt collection tank in a working position; wherein the cleaning equipment system is any of the following options: Option 1: The locking mechanism is a mechanical locking device; the cleaning equipment system further includes a drain base, the drain base having a trigger structure; when the cleaning equipment body is placed on the drain base, the trigger structure interacts with the mechanical locking device, triggering the release of the lock; Case 2: The locking mechanism is an electrically controlled locking component, which includes a controller and a driving element for driving the sludge collection box to rotate downwards and having a self-locking function, or includes an electrically controlled locking element; the electrically controlled locking element is a locking element controlled by a solenoid valve or a mechanical locking mechanism controlled by a motor; the main body of the cleaning equipment receives an electrically controlled trigger signal, and the controller controls the electrically controlled locking component to unlock according to the electrically controlled trigger signal; the electrically controlled trigger signal includes an external command signal or a robot autonomous identification signal; the cleaning equipment system includes a sludge discharge base or does not include a sludge discharge base; when a sludge discharge base is included, no trigger structure interacting with the electrically controlled locking component is provided on the sludge discharge base.

8. The cleaning equipment system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The cleaning system includes at least one roller brush cleaning actuator.

9. The cleaning equipment system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The cleaning system is either a suction-type cleaning system or a non-suction mechanical cleaning system.

10. The cleaning equipment system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The cleaning system includes two roller brush cleaning actuators arranged in front and behind, with the sludge collection box located between the two roller brush cleaning actuators.

11. The cleaning equipment system according to claim 10, characterized in that, The sludge collection tank includes a left sludge collection tank and a right sludge collection tank, which are respectively located on the left and right sides of the equipment, and are rotatably connected to the corresponding side of the housing via a rotating shaft, and can rotate outward and downward to dump sludge.

12. The cleaning equipment system according to claim 11, characterized in that, A locking device is provided between the left and right sludge collection tanks. The locking device includes a latch bar that is slidably disposed between the left and right sludge collection tanks for simultaneously locking or releasing the left and right sludge collection tanks.

13. The cleaning equipment system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The rotation axis of the sludge collection box is located on the rear side or either side of the sludge collection box.

14. The cleaning equipment system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The locking device includes: a movable latching member movably mounted on the housing or the sludge collection tank; and an elastic biasing member acting on the movable latching member to provide a biasing force that tends to lock the movable latching member with a mating portion disposed on the other.

15. The cleaning equipment system according to claim 7, characterized in that, When the main body of the cleaning equipment includes the driving element, the driving element is a motor, and the motor is used to drive the sludge collection box to rotate downward.

16. The cleaning equipment system according to claim 15, characterized in that, The motor has a self-locking function, which is used to maintain the working position of the sludge collection box when the power is off, thus performing a locking function.

17. The cleaning equipment system according to claim 16, characterized in that, It also includes a controller and at least one sensing device, the sensing device being used to detect whether the main body of the cleaning equipment is placed on the sewage base, and the controller controlling the motor to operate based on the detection signal from the sensing device.

18. The cleaning equipment system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The main body of the cleaning equipment is also equipped with auxiliary wheels, which are located on the side of the sludge collection tank away from its rotation center. These auxiliary wheels are used to support the sludge collection tank in its working position when the equipment is placed on the ground, and to serve as a fulcrum for the sludge collection tank to reset when the equipment is moved back to the ground from the sludge discharge base. When the main body of the cleaning equipment relies on gravity for sludge discharge and reset, the auxiliary wheels are a necessary structure. When the main body of the cleaning equipment includes a drive element, the auxiliary wheels are an optional structure and can be selected to be included or omitted according to design requirements.

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