Wet cloth module for a vacuum cleaner

Abstract

This invention relates to a wet wipe module for a vacuum cleaner, comprising a steam chamber disposed on the upper side of the module cover and used to condense moisture emitted from a heating element. This allows a portion of the generated steam to condense within the steam chamber, enabling the user to observe the steam chamber to confirm whether steam has been generated. Furthermore, it allows the user to confirm the generation of steam not only while it is being generated but also after it has already begun.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a wet wipe module for a vacuum cleaner, and more specifically, to a wet wipe module for a vacuum cleaner that sucks in or wipes away dust or foreign objects from a cleaned area by expelling hot water or steam into the wipe. Background Technology

[0002] A vacuum cleaner is a machine that cleans by sucking in or wiping away dust or foreign objects from the area to be cleaned.

[0003] These vacuum cleaners can be divided into manual vacuum cleaners, where the user moves the vacuum cleaner directly to clean, and automatic vacuum cleaners, which move autonomously while cleaning.

[0004] In addition, manual vacuum cleaners can be categorized by their form into canister vacuum cleaners, upright vacuum cleaners, handheld vacuum cleaners, stick vacuum cleaners, etc.

[0005] Floor cleaning methods are broadly divided into dry cleaning and wet cleaning. Dry cleaning involves sweeping or vacuuming dust; existing vacuum cleaners are examples of dry cleaning. Wet cleaning involves wiping dust with a damp cloth.

[0006] In existing technology, a dedicated dry vacuum cleaner is used for dry cleaning, and a dedicated wet vacuum cleaner is used for wet cleaning. However, this presents the inconvenience of needing to purchase two different vacuum cleaners to clean various types of floors. To solve this problem, a method has been developed that includes a main body, a dry cleaning module, and a wet cleaning module. The dry cleaning module is installed in the main body for dry cleaning, and the wet cleaning module (wet mop module) is installed in the main body for wet cleaning.

[0007] However, during wet cleaning, if foreign objects are stuck to the ground, even if you wipe the ground by rotating a cloth that absorbs water, some foreign objects may still remain.

[0008] In addition, when microorganisms and other microorganisms proliferate on the ground, there is a limitation that even wiping the ground with a swiping cloth that absorbs water may not completely kill the microorganisms.

[0009] To solve the above problem, one could consider using a heater to heat the water and supply the cloth with high-temperature water or steam.

[0010] At this point, the steam wet mop module includes a water tank for storing water, a heater for generating steam by heating the water, and a mop for receiving water or steam and wiping the floor. For ease of replacement, these components are preferably configured as a single unit. For example, if the water tank or heater is located within the main body, the weight of the water tank or heater, being an unnecessary component, can cause inconvenience during dry cleaning. Therefore, considering ease of cleaning, ease of module replacement, and space utilization, the water tank or heater is preferably located within the steam wet mop module, rather than within the vacuum cleaner main body.

[0011] Korean Patent Publication KR2023-0017117A (February 3, 2023) discloses a wet rag nozzle that heats water and emits steam to the rag.

[0012] The wet cloth nozzle discharges steam into the cloth through a diffuser.

[0013] At this point, because the diffuser is positioned close to the mop, the steam emitted from the diffuser will not leak outside the wet mop nozzle and can be absorbed by the mop. Therefore, heat loss from the steam can be minimized and heat can be transferred to the mop, thereby improving cleaning performance.

[0014] However, as mentioned above, if the steam does not leak to the outside, it becomes difficult for users to identify whether the steam is actually being released onto the cloth.

[0015] In this situation, a user may touch the cloth without realizing it has been heated, resulting in burns.

[0016] In addition, even if enough steam is emitted and enough heat is supplied to the cloth, the user may not realize this and may control the supply of more steam, which can lead to excessive energy consumption.

[0017] On the other hand, Korean Patent KR0928162B1 (November 17, 2009) discloses a nozzle for a vacuum cleaner that has a steam discharge path to confirm the generation of steam.

[0018] The vacuum cleaner nozzle allows a small amount of steam to escape to the outside by forming an auxiliary exhaust hole in the steam exhaust section that expels steam to the rag. This allows the user to confirm whether steam has been released.

[0019] However, the vacuum cleaner nozzle immediately discharges a portion of the steam expelled onto the rag, thus reducing the heat supplied to the rag and limiting its energy efficiency.

[0020] In addition, the emitted steam disappears immediately into the air, which limits the ability to clearly identify whether steam is being generated in scenarios where the user does not directly see the emitted steam.

[0021] On the other hand, US Patent 9320405B2 (April 26, 2016) discloses a cleaning device with an observation window that can confirm the condensation of steam.

[0022] The cleaning device has a water bucket and a heating element in the vacuum cleaner body, and a large-area rag is provided in the foot assembly facing the surface to be cleaned.

[0023] In this case, the cleaning device can only perform the wet wiping function, and is limited in that it cannot perform various cleaning functions by changing modules.

[0024] In addition, due to the long distance from the heating element to the cloth, there is a limitation that more heat is lost as the water heated in the steam generator flows to the foot assembly.

[0025] In addition, due to the limitations on the location and number of outlets that can be dispensed onto the rag, steam cannot be evenly distributed to the entire rag, which limits the cleaning efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0026] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0027] The present invention addresses the problems of the existing wet wipe modules of vacuum cleaners as described above, and aims to provide a wet wipe module for a vacuum cleaner that improves sterilization and foreign matter removal by supplying high-temperature water or steam to the wipe.

[0028] In addition, the purpose is to provide a wet wipe module for a vacuum cleaner that allows the user to recognize the fact that steam is being generated when steam is being produced.

[0029] In addition, the purpose is to provide a vacuum cleaner's wet wipe module that can immediately detect the generation of steam during the cleaning process, even if the user does not take any special action.

[0030] In addition, the purpose is to provide a wet wipe module for a vacuum cleaner that allows the user to identify whether steam is generated and minimizes the loss of heat supplied to the wipe.

[0031] In addition, the purpose is to provide a wet wipe module for a vacuum cleaner that allows steam to dry naturally when it condenses inside the wet wipe module.

[0032] Technical solutions to the problem

[0033] To achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner, which cleans by wiping away foreign objects on the floor, allows the user to instantly confirm the generation of steam by condensing the steam injected from the heating unit into the steam chamber.

[0034] Specifically, in one embodiment of the present invention, a wet cloth module includes a steam chamber, which is disposed on the upper side of the module cover, and the water emitted from the heating part condenses in the steam chamber.

[0035] This allows us to confirm the generation of steam and its condensation in the steam chamber at the top of the wet cloth module.

[0036] In addition, a wet cloth module of one embodiment of the present invention may also include a steam transfer flow path, which is disposed in the module housing and guides the water discharged from the heating part to the steam chamber.

[0037] At this time, a steam inlet for steam to flow into can be formed in the steam transfer path. The steam inlet can be configured with respect to the rotation center of the rotating cleaning part at a position closer to the radial outer side than the steam outlet.

[0038] Therefore, steam can be discharged from the steam outlet and supply moisture and heat to the cloth. Under the action of centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the cloth, it diffuses radially outward and flows into the steam transfer path through the steam inlet.

[0039] At this time, the distance from the rotation center of the rotating cleaning unit to the steam outlet can be greater than the radius of the rotating cleaning unit.

[0040] In addition, the distance from the rotation center of the rotating cleaning unit to the steam inlet can be less than the radius of the rag.

[0041] This allows steam to be emitted directly from the steam outlet to the rag, while the steam from the rag can flow into the steam inlet.

[0042] On the other hand, with the rotation center of the rotary cleaning unit as the origin, the angle from the steam inlet to the steam outlet can be less than 45 degrees based on the rotation direction of the rotary cleaning unit.

[0043] That is, the distance between a pair of steam inlets can be less than the distance between the rotation centers of a pair of rotating cleaning units.

[0044] Thus, the steam emitted from the steam outlet to the rag can rotate with the rag at least once before flowing into the steam inlet.

[0045] On the other hand, the closer the steam inlet is to the cloth, the larger its inner diameter becomes.

[0046] In addition, the steam transfer tube may also include a steam guide, which protrudes from one circumferential side of the steam inlet toward the rag with respect to the rotation center of the rotating cleaning part and guides the steam to the steam inlet.

[0047] Therefore, the steam from the rag can flow into the steam inlet over a wider range, and the steam passing through the steam inlet can also be guided to the steam inlet by the steam guide.

[0048] On the other hand, the steam chamber may include: a steam chamber body, in which moisture emitted from the heating unit condenses; and a vent formed in the steam chamber body for air containing moisture to pass through.

[0049] Additionally, the module housing may include a steam chamber junction portion that is combined with the steam chamber and forms a space for condensation; the steam chamber junction portion may include: a moisture passage hole for steam emitted from the heating section to flow in and for condensation to be discharged; and a guide surface that is formed by sloping downward from the vent hole toward the moisture passage hole.

[0050] Therefore, the water condensed in the steam chamber can be discharged to the outside of the wet cloth module through the vent, or it can flow along the guide surface and be discharged to the outside of the wet cloth module through the water through hole.

[0051] Invention Effects

[0052] As described above, the wet cloth module of the vacuum cleaner according to the present invention can supply high-temperature water or steam to the cloth through a heater, thereby improving the sterilization effect and the removal effect of foreign objects.

[0053] Furthermore, it allows the user to identify whether steam has been generated by observing the steam chamber when a portion of the generated steam is condensed in it. It also allows confirmation of steam generation not only during the generation process but also after steam has been generated.

[0054] In addition, by placing the steam chamber on the upper side of the module cover, users can immediately recognize the fact that steam is being generated while cleaning by observing the upper periphery of the wet mop module.

[0055] In addition, the inlet of the steam guiding flow path that guides steam to the steam chamber is located on the upper side of the rotating cloth. The inlet is located further away from the rotation center of the cloth than the steam outlet, so that the steam discharged to the cloth can diffuse and consume heat before flowing to the steam chamber.

[0056] Therefore, it has the effect of preventing heat loss from the cloth supplied in order to confirm the generation of steam.

[0057] In addition, by forming vents in the steam chamber, the condensed moisture and steam can be naturally released to the outside, thereby achieving the effect of drying the moisture condensed inside the vacuum cleaner module without supplying steam. Attached Figure Description

[0058] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 2 This is a perspective view illustrating the wet cloth module in a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An exploded 3D diagram.

[0061] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the state in which the upper cover is removed from the wet cloth module of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A bottom view.

[0063] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 Top view.

[0064] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of a wet cloth module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 8 This is a perspective view illustrating the heating element in a wet cloth module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view illustrating the heating element in a wet cloth module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the process of steam sprayed onto a cloth flowing into a steam transfer pipe in a wet cloth module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 11 This is a bottom view illustrating the positions of the steam outlet and steam inlet in a wet wiping module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating the process of draining moisture condensed in the steam chamber in a wet wipe module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 13This diagram illustrates the process by which air and steam are discharged through a vent in a wet cloth module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating the process by which air and steam are discharged through a vent in a wet cloth module according to another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0072] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0073] This invention can be modified in many ways and has many embodiments. Specific embodiments are illustrated in the figures and described in detail in the accompanying description. This is not intended to limit the invention to specific implementations, but should be interpreted as including all modifications, equivalents, or substitutions contained within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0074] Figure 1 The figure shows a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The diagram shows an assembled perspective view and an exploded perspective view of a wet wipe module for illustrating an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 4 to 6 The figure shows the state of removing the upper cover from the wet wiping module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 The figure shows a cross-sectional view of a wet wipe module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 The figure shows a perspective view of the heating element in a wet wipe module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 The diagram shows an exploded perspective view of the heating element in a wet cloth module for illustrating an embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] In this instruction manual, it can be understood that "floor" refers not only to the floor of the living room or bedroom, but also to the surface to be cleaned formed of various materials.

[0076] Reference Figures 1 to 9 According to an embodiment of the present invention, a vacuum cleaner 1 may include: a vacuum cleaner body 400, which is provided with a suction motor for generating suction; a wet wiping module 100, which is connected to the vacuum cleaner body 400 and is used to clean the ground by sucking in air and foreign objects and wiping the ground; and an extension tube 300, which connects the vacuum cleaner body 400 and the wet wiping module 100.

[0077] The wet cloth module 100 of this embodiment may include a module cover 110 and a connecting pipe 180, wherein the connecting pipe 180 is movably connected to the module cover 110.

[0078] As an example, the wet cloth module 100 of this embodiment can be connected to a handheld vacuum cleaner or a canister vacuum cleaner for use.

[0079] That is, the wet cloth module 100 can be detachably connected to the vacuum cleaner body 400 or the extension tube 300. With the wet cloth module 100 connected to the vacuum cleaner body 400 or the extension tube 300, the user can use the wet cloth module 100 to clean the floor. At this time, the vacuum cleaner body 400 with the wet cloth module 100 connected can separate dust from the air in a multi-cyclone manner.

[0080] The wet cloth module 100 can be powered by the vacuum cleaner body 400. Specifically, the wet cloth module 100 can be powered by a battery (not shown) disposed in the vacuum cleaner body 400.

[0081] The vacuum cleaner body 400 connected to the wet cloth module 100 includes a suction motor (not shown), so the suction generated by the suction motor (not shown) can be applied to the wet cloth module 100.

[0082] Therefore, the wet cloth module 100 in this embodiment can perform the function of sucking up foreign objects and air on the ground and guiding them to the vacuum cleaner body 400.

[0083] The connecting pipe 180 can be connected to the rear center of the module cover 110 to guide the sucked-in air to the vacuum cleaner 1, but is not limited to this.

[0084] To aid understanding, if the direction of this embodiment is defined, the portion of the wet cloth module 100 connected to the connecting tube 180 can be considered the rear side (rear side) of the wet cloth module 100, and the opposite side of the portion connected to the connecting tube 180 can be considered the front side (front side) of the wet cloth module 100. Furthermore, the direction connecting the front and rear sides can be referred to as the front-back direction.

[0085] Furthermore, taking the view from the connecting pipe 180 towards the suction port 113 as a reference, the left side can be referred to as the left side of the wet wipe module 100, and the right side can be referred to as the right side of the wet wipe module 100. Additionally, the direction connecting the left and right sides can be referred to as the left-right direction. The left-right direction can refer to a direction perpendicular to the front-back direction on a horizontal plane.

[0086] Furthermore, taking the state of placing the wet cloth module 100 on the ground as a reference, that is, the state of placing the cloth 150 on the ground and being able to wipe the ground as a reference, the direction closer to the ground can be referred to as the lower side or below, and the direction farther from the ground can be referred to as the upper side or above.

[0087] The wet cleaning module 100 may also include a rotating cleaning section 140 rotatably disposed on the underside of the module cover 110. For example, the rotating cleaning section 140 may be a rotating plate formed in the shape of a disc.

[0088] As an example, the rotating cleaning units 140 can be configured as a pair and arranged in a left-right direction. In this case, the pair of rotating cleaning units 140 can rotate independently. As an example, the rotating cleaning units 140 may include a first rotating cleaning unit 141 and a second rotating cleaning unit 142.

[0089] The rotating cleaning unit 140 can be combined with the cleaning cloth 150. As an example, the cleaning cloth 150 can be formed in a disc shape. The cleaning cloth 150 may include a first cleaning cloth 151 and a second cleaning cloth 152.

[0090] With the rag 150 placed on the ground, under the load of the wet rag module 100, the rag 150 is in close contact with the ground, thereby increasing the friction between the rag 150 and the ground.

[0091] The module cover 110 can form the appearance of the wet wipe module 100 and can have an air intake 113 for drawing in air. As an example, the air intake 113 can be formed at the front end of the bottom of the module cover 110. The air intake 113 can be formed extending in the left-right direction of the module cover 110.

[0092] The module cover 110 may include a lower cover 111 and an upper cover 112, wherein the upper cover 112 may be attached to the upper side of the lower cover 111.

[0093] The lower cover 111 can be fitted with a rotating cleaning unit 140 and form the appearance of a wet wiping module 100.

[0094] The lower cover 111 may include a bottom surface incorporating the rotating cleaning unit 140. In this case, the lower side of the bottom surface may be configured to face the ground when the wet mop module 100 is placed on the ground, and the upper side of the bottom surface may be provided with a water supply unit 130, a heating unit 136, and a drive motor 170.

[0095] A suction port 113 may be formed in the lower cover 111. Specifically, a suction port 113 may be formed on the bottom surface of the lower cover 111. The suction port 113 represents a space that allows air containing dust to flow in. With the configuration described above, if the suction motor (not shown) of the vacuum cleaner body 400 is operating, dust and air present around the ground can be sucked into the flow path of the wet cloth module 100 through the suction port 113.

[0096] A substrate mounting section may be provided in the lower cover 111, and a printed circuit board 190 for controlling the drive motor 170 is disposed in the substrate mounting section. As an example, the substrate mounting section may be formed in the shape of a hook extending upward from the lower cover 111.

[0097] A nozzle hole (not shown) for the diffuser 137 to pass through can be formed in the lower cover 111. Water or steam (water vapor) via the heating part 136 and the diffuser 137 can be supplied to the cloth 150 through the nozzle hole (not shown).

[0098] On the other hand, although not shown in the figure, according to the embodiment, a light-emitting module may be provided on the lower cover 111. Specifically, a light-emitting module may be provided on the front of the lower cover 111.

[0099] The light-emitting module can identify foreign objects or microorganisms present in front of the wet cloth module 100 by shining light in front of the wet cloth module 100.

[0100] The light-emitting component can emit light forward or downward. For example, the light-emitting component can be composed of a plurality of LEDs. In this case, the light emitted by the light-emitting component can be visible light, and according to the embodiment, it can be infrared (IR) or ultraviolet (UV). With the configuration described above, when the light-emitting component is in operation, not only can foreign objects or microorganisms present in front of the wet wipe module 100 be identified, but they can also be sterilized, thereby improving hygiene.

[0101] The upper cover 112 can cover the upper side of the lower cover 111 and can form the appearance of the wet cloth module 100 of the present invention.

[0102] In addition, the module cover 110 may also include a flow path section, which is connected to the suction port 113 and guides the air flowing in from the suction port 113 to the vacuum cleaner body 400.

[0103] The flow path section can be located at the upper center of the lower cover 111, and its end can be connected to the connecting pipe 180.

[0104] Therefore, by configuring the flow path, the suction port 113 can extend in a generally straight shape in the front-back direction, thereby minimizing the length of the suction port 113 and thus minimizing flow path loss in the wet cloth module 100.

[0105] The front portion of the flow path can cover the upper side of the suction port 113. The flow path can be configured to slope upwards as it approaches the rear from the front end. That is, the upper side of the flow path can be sloped at a predetermined angle to the ground. In addition, the upper side of the flow path can be sloped at a predetermined angle to the bottom surface of the lower cover 111.

[0106] Therefore, the height of the front part of the flow path can be made lower than the height of the rear part.

[0107] According to this embodiment, since the front portion of the flow path is relatively low, it has the advantage of reducing the height of the front portion in the overall height of the wet cloth module 100. The lower the height of the wet cloth module 100, the greater the possibility of it being able to reach narrow spaces under furniture or chairs for cleaning.

[0108] On the other hand, a heating element 136 may be disposed on the upper side of the flow path section in this embodiment. With the configuration described above, the heating element 136 can be stably supported in a state in which it is configured to form a predetermined angle with the ground.

[0109] A blocking member 114 may be disposed on the lower side of the lower cover 111. The blocking member 114 can prevent moisture discharged from the cloth 150 from diffusing into the suction port 113 by blocking the space in front of the suction port 113 and the space behind the cloth 150. For example, the blocking member 114 may include a central portion 114a and an extension portion 114b. In this case, a pair of extension portions 114b may be symmetrically connected to the two ends based on the central portion 114a. Furthermore, the central portion 114a may be disposed behind the suction port 113 to prevent moisture from flowing towards the suction port 113. Furthermore, the extension portion 114b may be configured in an arc shape to surround the circular cloth 150.

[0110] A plurality of rollers may be provided on the lower side of the lower cover 111 to allow the wet cloth module 100 to move smoothly.

[0111] As an example, a front roller 115 may be provided in front of the cloth 150 on the lower cover 111. The front roller 115 may include a first roller 115a and a second roller 115b. The first roller 115a and the second roller 115b may be arranged separately in the left-right direction.

[0112] The first roller 115a and the second roller 115b can be rotatably connected to the shaft. The shaft can be fixed to the lower side of the lower cover 111 in a state where it is configured to extend in the left-right direction.

[0113] The distance between the shaft and the front end of the lower cover 111 is greater than the minimum distance between the rag 150 and the front end of the lower cover 111.

[0114] As an example, at least a portion of the rotating cleaning unit 140 may be located between the axis of the first roller 115a and the axis of the second roller 115b.

[0115] With this configuration, the rotating sweeping unit 140 can be positioned as close as possible to the suction port 113, increasing the area cleaned by the rotating sweeping unit 140 on the ground where the wet mop module 100 is located, thereby improving the floor cleaning performance.

[0116] In this embodiment, the first roller 115a and the second roller 115b are combined on the lower side of the lower cover 111, thereby improving the mobility of the wet cloth module 100.

[0117] A third roller 116 may also be provided on the lower cover 111. Therefore, the first roller 115a and the second roller 115b, together with the third roller 116, can support the wet cloth module 100 at three points. At this time, the third roller 116 can be located behind the cloth 150 to avoid interfering with the cloth 150.

[0118] Although not shown in the figure, according to the embodiment, a cooling air inlet can be formed in the lower cover 111. External air can flow into the interior of the module cover 110 through the cooling air inlet. Additionally, the cooling air inlet can be formed on the front side wall of the lower cover 111. With the configuration described above, the airflow can be increased when the wet cloth module 100 is moved forward by the user's operation.

[0119] Although not shown in the figure, according to the embodiment, a cooling air outlet can be formed on the upper cover 112. Air inside the module cover 110 can be discharged to the outside through the cooling air outlet. Furthermore, the cooling air outlet can be formed on both side walls of the upper cover 112. With the configuration described above, air flowing in through the cooling air inlet can be guided through the drive motor 170 as it flows toward the cooling air outlet, thus having the advantage of preventing the drive motor 170 from overheating.

[0120] Furthermore, based on the state where the lower cover 111 is placed on the ground, the cooling air outlet can be configured to be further away from the ground than the cooling air inlet. With the configuration described above, the air heated inside the module cover 110 can rise and be effectively discharged to the cooling air outlet.

[0121] On the other hand, the wet cloth module 100 of one embodiment of the present invention also includes a steam transfer pipe 117 disposed in the module cover 110.

[0122] Inside the steam transfer pipe 117, a steam transfer flow path 117a can be formed to guide the moisture ejected from the heating section 136 to the steam chamber 200.

[0123] The steam transfer pipe 117 can be integrated into the interior of the module housing 110. For example, the steam transfer pipe 117 may include a first steam transfer pipe 117d and a second steam transfer pipe 117e. The first steam transfer pipe 117d can be integrated into the lower housing 111, and the second steam transfer pipe 117e can be integrated into the upper housing 112. Furthermore, the first steam transfer pipe 117d and the second steam transfer pipe 117e can be connected to each other and form a steam transfer flow path 117a inside.

[0124] A portion of the lower side of the first steam transfer pipe 117d may be formed with a steam transfer flow path 117a, and a steam inlet 117b may be formed therein. The steam inlet 117b may be connected to the steam transfer flow path 117a.

[0125] On the other hand, refer to Figure 11 The steam inlet 117a can be positioned at a predetermined distance from the rotation center P of the rotary cleaning unit 140. Specifically, the steam inlet 117a can be positioned radially outward from the steam outlet 137a, based on the rotation center P of the rotary cleaning unit 140.

[0126] With the configuration described above, steam can be discharged from steam outlet 137a and supply moisture and heat to the cloth 150. Under the action of centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the cloth 150, the steam can diffuse radially outward to the cloth 150 and then flow into the steam transfer path 117a through steam inlet 117b.

[0127] At this time, the distance from the rotation center P of the rotary cleaning unit 140 to the steam outlet 137a can be greater than the radius of the rotary cleaning unit 140. In addition, the distance from the rotation center P of the rotary cleaning unit 140 to the steam inlet 117b can be less than the radius of the rag 150.

[0128] Therefore, steam can be directly discharged from steam outlet 137a to rag 150, and the steam from rag 150 can flow into steam inlet 117b.

[0129] On the other hand, with the rotation center P of the rotating cleaning unit 140 as the origin, the distance that the rag 150 moves from the steam outlet 137a to the steam inlet 117b can be greater than the distance that the rag 150 moves from the steam inlet 117b to the steam outlet 137a.

[0130] Specifically, with the rotation center P of the rotating cleaning unit 140 as the origin, the angle from the steam inlet 117b to the steam outlet 137a can be less than 45 degrees based on the rotation direction of the rotating cleaning unit 140. That is, the rag 150 passing through the steam outlet 137a can reach the steam inlet 117b after rotating more than 135 degrees.

[0131] That is, refer to Figure 11 When a virtual coordinate plane (x, y plane) parallel to the rotating cleaning unit 140 is drawn with the rotation center P of the rotating cleaning unit 140 as the origin, the steam discharge port 137a and the steam inlet 117b can be configured in the same quadrant (e.g., the first quadrant).

[0132] Thus, the steam emitted from the steam outlet 137a to the rag 150 can rotate together with the rag 150 at least once and flow into the steam inlet 117b.

[0133] Therefore, since the heat of the steam can be fully supplied to the cloth and then flow into the steam chamber 200, it has the effect of minimizing heat loss.

[0134] Furthermore, the distance between a pair of steam inlets 117b can be shorter than the distance between the rotation centers P of a pair of rotating cleaning units 140. That is, the pair of steam inlets 117b can be configured to converge more towards the inside of the wet cloth module 100 than the rotation centers P of the pair of rotating cleaning units 140.

[0135] Therefore, the flow path length of the steam chamber 200, which is located at the center in the left-right direction of the module cover 110, can be shortened.

[0136] Additionally, refer to Figure 7 The shortest distance from the upper side of the cloth 150 to the steam inlet 117b can be greater than the shortest distance from the upper side of the cloth 150 to the steam outlet 137a. That is, the interval between the cloth 150 and the steam inlet 117b can be greater than the interval between the cloth 150 and the steam outlet 137a.

[0137] With the configuration described above, the moisture emitted from the steam outlet 137a can quickly diffuse between the lower side of the cloth 150 and the lower cover 111, and then flow into the steam inlet 117b. Therefore, it has the effect of supplying heat to the cloth 150 more quickly.

[0138] On the other hand, the lower side of the first steam transfer pipe 117d can be attached to the lower cover 111. The steam inlet 117b formed in the first steam transfer pipe 117d can be formed such that its diameter is larger the closer it is to the lower side. That is, the steam inlet 117b can be formed such that its inner diameter is larger the closer it is to the cloth 150.

[0139] As a result, the steam from the rag 150 can flow into the steam inlet 117b over a wider range.

[0140] On the other hand, a steam guide 117f may be formed in the first steam transfer pipe 117d.

[0141] The steam guide 117f can be formed by protruding downward from the first steam transfer pipe 117d. Specifically, the steam guide 117f can be formed by protruding from the inner wall of the first steam transfer pipe 117d toward the cloth 150.

[0142] At this time, the steam guide 117f can be formed on one circumferential side of the steam inlet 117b with reference to the rotation center P of the rotating cleaning part 140. Specifically, the steam guide 117f can be formed in the direction in which the wiping cloth 150 passes through the steam inlet 117b.

[0143] That is, in the first steam transfer pipe 117d, with the direction of rotation of the rag 150 as the reference, the inner diameter of the steam inlet 117b on the side flowing into the steam inlet 117b increases, and the side passing through the steam inlet 117b can be blocked by the steam guide 117f and the steam is guided to the direction of the steam inlet 117b.

[0144] Therefore, according to the steam transfer tube 117 of the present invention, the steam moving with the rotation of the rag 150 can flow into the steam inlet 117b over a wider range, and the steam passing through the steam inlet 117b can also be guided to the steam inlet 117b by the steam guide 117f.

[0145] Therefore, according to the present invention, steam can flow rapidly into the steam transfer path 117a and be rapidly supplied to the steam chamber 200, thereby enabling the user to quickly confirm whether steam is being injected.

[0146] The second steam transfer pipe 117e may have an upper part of a steam transfer flow path 117a, and the upper end of the steam transfer flow path 117a may be connected to the water passage hole 117c.

[0147] On the other hand, the first steam transfer pipe 117d and the second steam transfer pipe 117e can not only be integrally formed, but can also be configured to be combined with each other. In addition, an additional pipe can be combined between the first steam transfer pipe 117d and the second steam transfer pipe 117e.

[0148] The wet cloth module 100 may also include a water tank 120 capable of supplying moisture to the cloth 150.

[0149] The water tank 120 can be detachably connected to the module cover 110. Specifically, the water tank 120 can be attached to the upper side of the upper cover 112. For example, the water tank 120 can be installed in the water bucket mounting portion formed on the upper side of the upper cover 112.

[0150] Additionally, the water tank 120 can be disposed on the upper part of the heating unit 136. Specifically, the water tank 120 can be disposed separately from the heating unit 136 on the upper part of the heating unit 136. That is, the water tank 120 can be disposed on the upper part of the heating unit 136 through the upper cover 112.

[0151] With the water tank 120 installed on the module cover 110, the water tank 120 can form the appearance of the wet wiping module 100.

[0152] In fact, the entire upper sidewall of the water tank 120 forms the top surface appearance of the wet wiping module 100. Therefore, the user can visually confirm whether the water tank 120 is installed on the module cover 110.

[0153] The module cover 110 may also include a water tank separation button, which is operated to separate the water tank 120 when the water tank 120 is installed in the module cover 110. For example, the water tank separation button may be located in the center of the wet cloth module 100. Therefore, it has the advantage that the user can easily identify and operate the water tank separation button.

[0154] With the water tank 120 installed on the module cover 110, water from the water tank 120 can be supplied to the rag 150. Specifically, the water stored in the water tank 120 can be supplied to the rag 150 through the water supply unit 130.

[0155] Specifically, a space for storing water is formed inside the water tank 120. The water stored in the water tank 120 can be supplied to the heating unit 136 through at least one pipe (hose). The water flowing into the heating unit 136 can be heated, or, depending on the user's choice, can be converted into steam (water vapor). The heated water or steam in the heating unit 136 can be supplied to the cloth 150 through the diffuser 137.

[0156] The water tank 120 includes a water inlet. The water inlet is a hole that allows water to flow into the interior of the water tank 120. For example, the water inlet may be formed on the side of the water tank 120.

[0157] The water tank 120 includes a drain outlet. The drain outlet is a hole through which water stored in the water tank 120 is discharged. Water discharged from the drain outlet can flow towards the heating unit 136. The drain outlet may be formed on the lower surface of the water tank 120.

[0158] The water tank 120 includes an air vent. An air vent is a hole that allows air to flow into the water tank 120. If water stored inside the water tank 120 is discharged to the outside, the pressure inside the water tank 120 drops. To compensate for the pressure drop, air can flow into the water tank 120 through the air vent. For example, the air vent may be formed at the top of the water tank 120.

[0159] On the other hand, in one embodiment of the present invention, the water tank 120 includes a steam chamber joint portion 121 that is combined with the steam chamber 200.

[0160] The steam chamber joint 121 can be configured corresponding to the position of the steam chamber 200. The steam chamber joint 121 can be configured on the upper side of the water tank 120. The steam chamber joint 121 can be connected to the steam chamber 200 and provide space for steam flow and condensation inside.

[0161] The steam chamber joint 121 can be positioned in a location visible when the user is holding the vacuum cleaner body 400. For example, the steam chamber joint 121 can be positioned in the center of the wet cleaning module 100 with a left-right orientation as a reference, and it can also be positioned on the front side of the wet cleaning module 100 with a front-back orientation as a reference.

[0162] With the configuration described above, the steam chamber 200 remains continuously visible to the user, even when the user is holding the vacuum cleaner body 400 and operating it in the back-and-forth direction.

[0163] Specifically, even if the user pushes the wet cloth module 100 away from the user, the upper side of the wet cloth module 100 will still be visible, and the steam chamber 200 disposed on it will be visible. Even if the user pulls the wet cloth module 100 so that it is in front of the user's feet, the steam chamber 200 disposed on the front side of the wet cloth module 100 will still be visible to the user.

[0164] Therefore, according to the present invention, even if the user moves the wet cloth module 100 during cleaning, the steam chamber 200 can remain continuously exposed to the user's field of vision.

[0165] The steam chamber joint includes a guide surface 121a and a moisture passage hole 117c.

[0166] Moisture can be formed through the hole 117c to allow steam emitted from the heating section 136 to flow in and out as condensed moisture.

[0167] Water can be formed in the water tank 120 through the hole 117c. The water can be connected to the upper side of the water tank 120 and the interior of the module cover 110 through the hole 117c.

[0168] Specifically, the moisture passage hole 117c can be configured to communicate with the steam transfer path 117a formed in the steam transfer pipe 117 described later. For example, the moisture passage holes 117c can be formed in pairs in a symmetrical shape, with the lower side of the moisture passage hole 117c communicating with the upper end of the steam transfer path 117a. Therefore, when steam rises from the cloth 150, the steam that has passed through the steam transfer path 117a can pass through the moisture passage hole 117c and flow into the steam chamber 200. In addition, the moisture condensed in the steam chamber 200 passes through the moisture passage hole 117c under the action of gravity and flows downward along the steam transfer path 117a and is discharged.

[0169] The guide surface 121a can guide the flow path of steam and moisture.

[0170] The guide surface 121a can, together with the inner side of the steam chamber 200, surround the space containing water or steam. As an example, the guide surface 121a can form part of the upper side of the water tank.

[0171] The guide surface 121a is formed by tilting downwards from the vent 220 toward the water passage 117c. That is, the guide surface 121a is formed by tilting downwards in a symmetrical shape from the vent 220 toward a pair of water passages 117c (see reference). Figure 12 ).

[0172] Therefore, the water condensed in the steam chamber 200 can flow along the guide surface 121a under the action of gravity and flow through the water through hole 117c to the steam transfer path 117a and be discharged to the outside.

[0173] At least a portion of the guide surface 121a can be formed to be parallel to the upper side of the steam chamber 200 facing each other. That is, a space of a predetermined height can be formed between at least a portion of the guide surface 121a and the upper side of the steam chamber 200.

[0174] This prevents water droplets from coming into contact with the upper surface of the steam chamber 200 and stopping as they move along the guide surface 121a. In other words, a space with sufficient height for water droplets to move can be formed between the guide surface 121a and the upper surface of the steam chamber 200.

[0175] The wet cloth module 100 of the present invention may include a water supply unit 130, which is formed with a flow path for supplying water flowing from the water tank 120 to the cloth 150.

[0176] Specifically, the water supply unit 130 may include a water tank connection part 131 that allows water from the water tank 120 to flow into the module cover 110, a water inflow pipe 132 that supplies water flowing into the water tank connection part 131 to the water pump 133, a guide pipe 134 that supplies water from the water pump 133 to a "T"-shaped connector, and a water supply pipe 135 that supplies water flowing into the connector to the heating unit 136.

[0177] The water tank connection 131 can activate the valve (not shown) inside the water tank 120, allowing water to flow.

[0178] The water tank connection part 131 can be attached to the lower side of the upper cover 112, and a part of the water tank connection part 131 can pass through the upper cover 112 and protrude upward.

[0179] The upward-protruding water tank connection part 131 can pass through the outlet of the water tank 120 and be introduced into the interior of the water tank 120 when the water tank 120 is placed on the upper cover 112.

[0180] The upper cover 112 may be provided with a seal to prevent water discharged from the water tank 120 from leaking around the water tank connection 131. As an example, the seal may be formed of rubber material and may be attached to the upper side of the upper cover 112.

[0181] A water pump 133 for controlling the discharge of water from the water tank 120 can be installed in the upper cover 112.

[0182] The water pump 133 can provide the flow force of water. The water pump 133 may include a first connection port connected to the water inlet pipe 132 and a second connection port connected to the guide pipe 134. In this case, with the water pump 133 as a reference, the first connection port can be an inlet and the second connection port can be an outlet.

[0183] The water pump 133 expands or contracts with the movement of the internal valve body to operate in order to connect the first connection port and the second connection port. It can be implemented using a known structure, so a detailed description of it is omitted.

[0184] The water supply pipe 135 can connect the connector and the water inlet 212 of the heating unit 136. For example, the water supply pipe 135 can be a pair of pipes branching off from the connector.

[0185] Therefore, the water supplied to the water inlet pipe 132 flows into the water pump 133 and then flows to the guide pipe 134. The water flowing to the guide pipe 134 flows through the connector to the water supply pipe 135. In addition, the water flowing to the water supply pipe 135 is supplied to the heating unit 136.

[0186] The heating element 136 is a device for heating water. The heating element 136 is disposed inside the module cover 110. Specifically, the heating element 136 is disposed on the upper side of the lower cover 111.

[0187] On the other hand, in this invention, the heating element 136 is arranged at an angle. Specifically, with the module cover 110 placed on the ground as a reference, the bottom surface of the heating element 136 can be configured to form a predetermined angle with the ground.

[0188] The heating unit 136 can generate high-temperature water or steam (water vapor) by heating water. The heating unit 136 can heat the water supplied from the water tank 120 and supply it to the rag 150.

[0189] The heating element 136 is located in the wet mop module 100, rather than in the vacuum cleaner body 400. This is to prevent the heating element from becoming inconvenient for dry cleaning due to its weight and size when the vacuum cleaner body is located in the vacuum cleaner body.

[0190] The heating element 136 can be attached to the upper part (upper side of the bottom surface) of the lower cover 111. For example, the heating element 136 can be attached to the upper side of the flow path. In this case, the flow path can be attached to the center of the upper side of the lower cover 111, so the heating element 136 can also be positioned at the center of the lower cover 111. With the configuration described above, when the heating element 136 is in operation, the heat supplied from the heating element 136 will not cause overheating at any specific location, thereby preventing damage to the wet cloth module 100. In addition, the overall volume of the wet cloth module 100 can be minimized.

[0191] The heating unit 136 may include a heating chamber 136a, a heater 136b, a lower cover 136c, a seal 136d, an upper cover 136e, a lower insulator 136f, an upper insulator 136g, an overheat circuit breaker 136h, and a temperature detection unit 136i.

[0192] At this time, a heater 136b can be disposed on the lower side of the heating chamber 136a, a lower insulator 136f can be disposed on the lower side of the heater 136b, and a lower cover 136c can be disposed on the lower side of the lower insulator 136f to cover the lower side of the heating part 136. Additionally, a seal 136d can be disposed on the upper side of the heating chamber 136a, an upper insulator 136g can be disposed on the upper side of the seal 136d, and an upper cover 136e can be disposed on the upper side of the upper insulator 136g to cover the upper side of the heating part 136. On the other hand, an overheat circuit breaker 136h and a temperature detection unit 136i are disposed on the outer surface of the heating chamber 136a.

[0193] The heating chamber 136a may have a flow path for water to flow inside it, and may provide a space to receive heat generated from the heater 136b and heat the water flowing in the flow path.

[0194] At this time, the height from the ground to the water inlet of the heating chamber 136a can be higher than the height from the ground to the outlet of the heating chamber 136a.

[0195] With the configuration described above, even if the water flowing into the water inlet of the heating chamber 136a is heated and moves upward by convection, it can still flow from the upper part to the lower part of the heating chamber 136a under the action of gravity and be heated.

[0196] In particular, even if the water heated inside the heating chamber 136a turns into water vapor and rises, it can remain inside the heating chamber 136a and be continuously heated instead of being discharged to the upper part of the heating chamber 136a.

[0197] In addition, the wastewater generated inside the heating section 136 can be kept inside and heated without being discharged to the outside.

[0198] Heater 136b can generate heat. As a device capable of converting electrical energy into heat energy, heater 136b can be implemented using a known structure, therefore detailed description is omitted.

[0199] Heater 136b can be disposed on the lower side of heating chamber 136a and supply heat to heating chamber 136a. Specifically, heater 136b can contact the bottom surface of heating chamber 136a. Therefore, if heat is generated in heater 136b, heating chamber 136a in contact with heater 136b can be heated by heat conduction. Therefore, heater 136b can heat water flowing inside heating chamber 136a by receiving power from a battery (not shown) disposed in vacuum cleaner body 400.

[0200] On the other hand, heater 136b can adjust the water temperature according to user input. Additionally, heater 136b can change the water phase into steam (water vapor) according to user input.

[0201] On the other hand, according to the embodiment, there may be a plurality of heaters 136b. As one example, the heaters 136b may be arranged in the left-right direction of the wet cloth module 100. As another example, the heaters 136b may be arranged in the front-back direction of the wet cloth module 100.

[0202] The lower cover 136c can be disposed below the heater 136b and the lower insulator 136f and cover the heater 136b and the lower insulator 136f. For example, the lower cover 136c can be formed in a flat plate shape and shaped to surround the heater 136b and the lower insulator 136f. The lower cover 136c can be formed of a material that can block heat generated from the heater 136b.

[0203] With the configuration described above, heat generated in heater 136b can be prevented from dissipating to the outside of heating section 136, thereby improving energy efficiency. Furthermore, components housed inside module housing 110 can be prevented from being damaged by heat generated in heater 136b.

[0204] A seal 136d can be disposed on the upper side of the heating chamber 136a to make the upper side of the heating chamber 136a airtight. Specifically, the seal 136d can make the open upper part of the chamber body 211 airtight. The seal 136d can be formed of a material that can block the passage of moisture. With the configuration described above, even if water vapor generated inside the heating chamber 136a rises, it can be blocked by the seal 136d and prevented from flowing out to the outside.

[0205] The upper cover 136e can be disposed above the seal 136d and the upper insulator 136g and cover the seal 136d and the upper insulator 136g. For example, the upper cover 136e can be formed in a flat plate shape and can be formed in a shape that surrounds the seal 136d and the upper insulator 136g. The upper cover 136e can be formed of a material that can block heat transfer through the seal 136d.

[0206] With the configuration described above, energy efficiency can be improved by preventing the heat generated in the heater 136b from dissipating to the outside of the heating section 136. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent damage to components housed inside the module housing 110 due to the heat generated in the heater 136b.

[0207] The lower insulator 136f can be disposed between the heater 136b and the lower cover 136c and block heat transfer from the heater 136b. The lower insulator 136f can be formed to have an area wider than that of the heater 136b. For example, the lower insulator 136f can be formed in a flat plate shape and can be formed of a material that blocks heat transfer.

[0208] With the configuration described above, energy efficiency is improved by preventing heat generated in heater 136b from dissipating to the outside of heating section 136. Furthermore, components housed inside module housing 110 are protected from damage caused by heat generated in heater 136b. In particular, in this embodiment, the heat generated in heater 136b is doubly blocked by lower insulator 136f and lower cover 136c, thereby maximizing the effects of improved energy efficiency and prevention of component damage.

[0209] The upper insulator 136g can be disposed on the upper side of the seal 136d and block heat transfer from the heating chamber 136a. The upper insulator 136g can be formed to have an area wider than the seal 136d. For example, the upper insulator 136g can be formed in a flat plate shape and can be formed of a material that can block heat transfer.

[0210] With the configuration described above, energy efficiency can be improved by preventing heat from the heating chamber 136a heated by the heater 136b from dissipating to the outside of the heating section 136. Furthermore, it prevents heat loss from the heating chamber 136a to the outside of the heating section 136, thus preventing damage to components housed inside the module cover 110. In particular, in this embodiment, the heat from the heating chamber 136a is doubly blocked by the upper insulator 136g and the upper cover 136e, thereby maximizing the effects of improved energy efficiency and prevention of component damage.

[0211] The overheat circuit breaker 136h can be configured on the side of the heating chamber 136a and can cut off the power supply to the heater 136b when the temperature of the heating chamber 136a is above the specified reference temperature Tr.

[0212] The overheat circuit breaker 136h can be configured in the heating chamber 136a. Specifically, the overheat circuit breaker 136h can be configured on the outer side of the heating chamber 136a.

[0213] The overheat circuit breaker 136h can be configured in the heating chamber 136a at a location where heat is concentrated.

[0214] The overheat circuit breaker 136h can be a device that disconnects the circuit in the event of overheating. For example, the overheat circuit breaker 136h can be a thermal protector. A thermal protector can be a device that uses a bimetallic strip to automatically disconnect the circuit in the event of overheating. In addition, the overheat circuit breaker 136h can include all components that disconnect the circuit in the event of overheating.

[0215] The temperature detection unit 136i can measure the temperature of the heating unit 136.

[0216] The temperature detection unit 136i can be disposed on the side of the heating chamber 136a.

[0217] The temperature detection unit 136i can measure the temperature of the heating chamber 136a. As an example, the temperature detection unit 136i can be a thermistor.

[0218] The diffuser 137 is configured to discharge water from the water tank 120 into the rag 150.

[0219] Specifically, the diffuser 137 may include at least one nozzle, and use the nozzle to supply moisture expelled from the heating section 136 to the cloth 150.

[0220] The diffuser 137 can be housed in a space formed inside the module housing 110, and a portion of the diffuser 137 can be exposed to the outside of the module housing 110 through a nozzle hole (not shown) formed in the module housing 110.

[0221] The diffusers 137 can be mounted in pairs to the module housing 110 and arranged in a left-right direction. Alternatively, the pair of diffusers 137 arranged in the left-right direction can be formed in a symmetrical (mirror image) shape.

[0222] The diffuser 137 can be connected to the heating unit 136 and supply the water flowing through the heating unit 136 to the cloth 150.

[0223] The diffuser 137 has a diffusion path inside which water can flow, and includes a nozzle that discharges the water flowing in the diffusion path to the cloth.

[0224] A steam outlet 137a is formed at the nozzle of the diffuser 137. Moisture sprayed from the steam outlet 137a is supplied to the wiping cloth 150. The wiping cloth 150 rotates and wipes the floor in a state of absorbing the moisture supplied through the diffuser 137.

[0225] On the other hand, refer to Figure 11 With the rotation center P of the rotating cleaning unit 140 as the origin, a flow blocking part 137b can be provided on a circle concentric with the steam outlet 137a. In this case, the flow blocking part 137b can be formed to protrude further downward than the nozzle of the diffuser 137. That is, the flow blocking part 137b can be formed to protrude closer to the wiping cloth 150 than the lower end of the steam outlet 137a. For example, the flow blocking part 137b can be a stepped shape that protrudes further downward than the lower side of the lower cover 110.

[0226] Additionally, the flow blocking portion 137b can be configured to be close to the steam inlet 117b. That is, the distance between the steam inlet 117b and the flow blocking portion 137b can be configured to be shorter than the distance between the steam inlet 117b and the steam outlet 137a.

[0227] Therefore, the flow blocking section 137b can prevent moisture discharged from the steam outlet 137a from flowing directly into the steam inlet 117b. As a result, it has the effect of reducing heat loss from moisture.

[0228] The rotary cleaning unit 140 can receive power from the drive motor 170 and rotate. For example, the rotary cleaning unit 140 can be a rotating plate. The rotary cleaning unit 140 can be formed in the shape of a disc or in the shape of a ring with spokes, and a cloth 150 can be attached to its bottom surface.

[0229] At this time, the rotating cleaning unit 140 can be arranged parallel to the ground with the wet cloth module 100 placed on the ground. Alternatively, the disc-shaped rotating cleaning unit 140 can be arranged parallel to the bottom surface of the lower cover 111.

[0230] As an example, the rotating cleaning unit 140 can be located on the lower side of the module cover 110, behind the suction port 113.

[0231] Therefore, when the wet cloth module 100 is moved forward and sweeps, the floor can be wiped with the cloth 150 after the foreign objects and air on the ground are sucked in by the suction port 113.

[0232] One or more rotating cleaning units 140 may be provided on the lower side of the module cover 110. For example, the rotating cleaning unit 140 may include a first rotating cleaning unit 141 connected to the first drive motor 171 and attached to the first wiping cloth 151, and a second rotating cleaning unit 142 connected to the second drive motor 172 and attached to the second wiping cloth 152.

[0233] Specifically, the rotating cleaning unit 140 may include an annular outer body, an inner body located in the central region of the outer body and separated from the inner circumferential surface of the outer body, and a plurality of connecting ribs connecting the outer circumferential surface of the inner body and the inner circumferential surface of the outer body.

[0234] On the other hand, the rotating cleaning unit 140 may include an attachment member for attaching the cloth 150. As an example, the attachment member may be Velcro.

[0235] The rotating cleaning unit 140 can be disposed on the lower side of the lower cover 111. That is, the rotating cleaning unit 140 can be disposed on the outside of the module cover 110.

[0236] Additionally, the rotary cleaning unit 140 can be connected to the drive motor 170 and receive power. For example, the rotary cleaning unit 140 can be connected to the drive motor 170 via one or more gears and rotate by the operation of the drive motor 170.

[0237] The rotating cleaning unit 140 may include a first rotating cleaning unit 141 and a second rotating cleaning unit 142. For example, with the wet mop module 100 placed on the ground, taking the suction port 113 as a reference, the first rotating cleaning unit 141 may refer to the rotating cleaning unit 140 arranged on the left side, and the second rotating cleaning unit 142 may refer to the rotating cleaning unit 140 arranged on the right side, but it is not limited to this, and the left and right sides may be interchanged.

[0238] In this embodiment, the rotation center of the first rotating cleaning unit 141 and the rotation center of the second rotating cleaning unit 142 can be configured separately in the left-right direction.

[0239] The rotation center of the rotating cleaning unit 140 can be located further away from the front end of the module cover 110 than the central axis of the front-to-back length of the bi-divided module cover 110. This is to prevent the rotating cleaning unit 140 from blocking the suction port 113.

[0240] The distance between the rotation center of the first rotating cleaning unit 141 and the rotation center of the second rotating cleaning unit 142 can be greater than the diameter of the wiping cloth 150. This is to reduce the mutual friction between the first wiping cloth 151 and the second wiping cloth 152 due to mutual interference during rotation, and to prevent the cleanable area from decreasing by the amount corresponding to the interference.

[0241] The 150 cloth can wipe the floor by rotating.

[0242] The rag 150 can be attached to the underside of the rotating cleaning unit 140 so that it faces the ground.

[0243] The rag 150 is configured such that its bottom surface facing the ground has a defined area, and the rag 150 is configured in a flat shape. The rag 150 is configured such that its width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction is much greater than its height in the vertical direction. The rag 150 is attached to the side of the lower cover 111, so that the bottom surface of the rag 150 can be parallel to the ground.

[0244] The bottom surface of the cleaning cloth 150 can be roughly circular, and the cleaning cloth 150 as a whole can be configured to have a rotationally symmetrical shape. In addition, the cleaning cloth 150 can be attached to the bottom surface of the rotating cleaning unit 140, and can be attached to the rotating cleaning unit 140 and rotate together with the rotating cleaning unit 140.

[0245] With the rotating cleaning unit 140 and the wiping cloth 150 combined on the lower side of the module cover 110, a portion of the wiping cloth 150 protrudes outward from the wet wiping cloth module 100. Therefore, it can clean not only the ground below the wet wiping cloth module 100, but also the ground outside the wet wiping cloth module 100.

[0246] As an example, the wiping cloth 150 can protrude not only to the sides of the wet wiping cloth module 100, but also to the rear.

[0247] The cleaning cloth 150 may include a first cleaning cloth 151 coupled to the first rotating cleaning unit 141 and a second cleaning cloth 152 coupled to the second rotating cleaning unit 142. Therefore, when the first rotating cleaning unit 141 receives power from the first drive motor 171 and rotates, the first cleaning cloth 151 can also rotate together, and when the second rotating cleaning unit 142 receives power from the second drive motor 172 and rotates, the second cleaning cloth 152 can also rotate together.

[0248] On the other hand, the wet cloth module 100 may also include a drive motor 170 that provides power to rotate the cloth 150 and the rotating cleaning unit 140.

[0249] Specifically, the drive motor 170 may include a first drive motor 171 that rotates the first rotating sweeping part 141 and a second drive motor 172 that rotates the second rotating sweeping part 142.

[0250] As described above, the first drive motor 171 and the second drive motor 172 operate independently, thus having the advantage that even if either the first drive motor 171 or the second drive motor 172 fails, the other can be used to rotate the rotating cleaning unit 140.

[0251] On the other hand, the first drive motor 171 and the second drive motor 172 can be arranged separately in the left-right direction within the module housing 110. Furthermore, the first drive motor 171 and the second drive motor 172 can be located behind the intake port 113.

[0252] The drive motor 170 can be configured within the module housing 110. As an example, the drive motor 170 can be mounted on the upper side of the lower housing 111 and covered by the upper housing 112. That is, the drive motor 170 can be located between the lower housing 111 and the upper housing 112.

[0253] On the other hand, the wet cloth module 100 includes a connecting tube 180 that is connected to the vacuum cleaner body 400 or the extension tube 300.

[0254] The connecting pipe 180 may include a first connecting pipe connected to the end of the flow path, a second connecting pipe rotatably connected to the first connecting pipe, and a guide pipe that communicates the interiors of the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe.

[0255] The first connecting tube can be formed in a tube shape, with one axial end connected to the end of the flow path section, and the other axial end rotatably connected to the second connecting tube. In this case, the first connecting tube can be formed with a portion of its outer circumferential surface cut off, the cut portion facing the second connecting tube and upwards. With the configuration described above, when the wet cloth module 100 is placed on the ground, the angle between the second connecting tube and the ground can change as the user's arm moves. That is, the first and second connecting tubes can function as a joint that can adjust the angle between the wet cloth module 100 and the vacuum cleaner body 400.

[0256] The second connecting tube is formed in the shape of a tube, with one axial end rotatably connected to the first connecting tube, and the vacuum cleaner body 400 or extension tube 300 inserted into the other axial end, and detachably connected to the vacuum cleaner body 400 or extension tube 300.

[0257] On the other hand, according to an embodiment, the auxiliary battery may be integrated into the second connecting tube.

[0258] On the other hand, wires can be built into the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe, and the wires built into the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe can be electrically connected to each other.

[0259] On the other hand, the guide tube can connect the internal spaces of the first connecting tube and the second connecting tube. A flow path can be formed inside the guide tube to allow air drawn in from the wet cloth module 100 to flow towards the extension tube 300 and / or the vacuum cleaner body 400. At this time, the guide tube can deform together with the rotation of the first and second connecting tubes. For example, the guide tube can be formed in a corrugated tube shape.

[0260] On the other hand, the wet wipe module 100 may include a printed circuit board 190 for controlling the wet wipe module 100. The printed circuit board 190 may be energized and configured with communication lines.

[0261] On the other hand, the module cover 110 may be provided with an operating part for adjusting the amount of water discharged from the water tank 120 and the phase of the water.

[0262] on the other hand, Figure 10 The diagram illustrates the process by which steam sprayed onto a cloth flows into a steam transfer tube in a wet cloth module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11The image shows a bottom view illustrating the locations of the steam outlet and steam inlet in a wet wipe module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 The diagram illustrates the process of draining water condensed in the steam chamber in a wet wipe module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 The diagram illustrates the process by which air and steam are discharged through vents in a wet wipe module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0263] Reference Figures 10 to 13 This describes the steam transfer pipe and steam chamber in a wet wiping module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0264] The wet cloth module 100 of one embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that it further includes a steam chamber 200.

[0265] The steam chamber 200 is configured to condense the steam emitted from the heating section 136.

[0266] At this time, the steam chamber 200 can be configured on the upper side of the module cover 110. Here, "upper side" refers to the upper side of the upper surface of the upper cover 112.

[0267] This means that the steam chamber 200 only needs to be configured on the upper side of the upper cover 112 facing it, and does not mean that the steam chamber 200 is configured above the top of the module cover 110 when the module cover 110 is placed on the surface to be cleaned.

[0268] With this configuration, the steam chamber 200 can be exposed to the upper exterior of the module cover 110.

[0269] As an example, such as Figure 13 As shown, the steam chamber 200 can be combined with the water tank 120. That is, the water tank 120 can be combined with the upper side of the upper cover 112, and the steam chamber 200 can be combined with the upper side of the water tank 120. In this case, steam can be contained in the space formed by the steam chamber 200 and the water tank 120.

[0270] As another example, such as Figure 14 As shown, the steam chamber 200 can be attached to the upper cover 112. In this case, steam can be contained in the space formed by the steam chamber 200 and the upper cover 112.

[0271] On the other hand, the steam chamber 200 can be disposed in the center of the wet cloth module 100 in the left-right direction, but is not limited thereto. For example, the steam chamber 200 can be formed into a shape having a predetermined length in the left-right direction of the wet cloth module 100.

[0272] Normally, users clean while observing the periphery of the wet cloth module 100. Therefore, the wet cloth module 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention has the effect of enabling users who clean while observing the upper periphery of the wet cloth module 100 to immediately recognize the fact that steam is generated.

[0273] On the other hand, the steam chamber 200 includes a steam chamber body 210 and a vent 220.

[0274] The steam chamber body 210 can contain steam inside and condense steam on the inner surface of the steam chamber body 210.

[0275] The steam chamber body 210 can form a space for accommodating steam between itself and the upper side of the water tank 120 or the upper side of the upper cover 112.

[0276] The steam chamber body 210 can be shaped to cover the upper side of the water tank 120 or the upper side of the upper cover 112.

[0277] As an example, the steam chamber body 210 can be formed into a box shape with an open lower side. As another example, the steam chamber body 210 can be formed into a plate shape that covers the steam transfer pipe 117 at a predetermined interval from the steam transfer pipe 117 disposed inside the module cover 110.

[0278] At this time, the upper side of the steam chamber body 210 can be inclined at a predetermined angle to the surface to be cleaned. That is, the upper side of the steam chamber body 210 can be inclined at a predetermined angle to the bottom surface 111a of the module cover 110. For example, the steam chamber body 210 can be configured to tilt upwards as it gets closer to the rear.

[0279] With the configuration described above, since the steam flows upward in the direction of gravity, the steam chamber 200 can cover the upper side in the direction of steam flow, thus having the effect of blocking the steam in the steam chamber 200 and causing it to condense rapidly.

[0280] Therefore, the user can confirm whether steam is condensing in the steam chamber 200 located at the top of the wet cloth module 100. Thus, if steam is generated during cleaning, the user can identify that steam is condensing in the steam chamber 200 located at the top of the wet cloth module 100, thereby immediately confirming whether steam has been generated.

[0281] The steam chamber body 210 is configured so that the user can see the moisture condensed on the inner surface. For example, the steam chamber body 210 may be made of a transparent or translucent material. Therefore, when the heating unit 136 is in operation, when the user observes the steam chamber body 210, they can sense the condensation inside the steam chamber 200, or they can sense the interior of the steam chamber 200 becoming blurred.

[0282] Vent 220 can be formed in the steam chamber body 210 and allow air containing moisture to pass through.

[0283] A vent 220 may be formed on one side of the steam chamber body 210. Specifically, the vent 220 may be formed at a relatively high position within the steam chamber body 210. For example, since the steam chamber body 210 is arranged to slope upwards towards the rear, the vent 220 may be formed on the rear side of the steam chamber body 210.

[0284] With the configuration described above, the steam flowing into the steam chamber 200 can flow along the inclined surface of the steam chamber body 210 and be discharged to the outside through the vent 220. Compared with the case where the steam chamber 200 is arranged in a horizontal direction, this structure has the effect of preventing moisture from accumulating inside the steam chamber 200.

[0285] on the other hand, Figure 14 The diagram illustrates the process by which air and steam are discharged through a vent in a wet wipe module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0286] On the other hand, since the contents not specifically mentioned in this embodiment are the same in structure and effect as the wet wiping module of an embodiment of the present invention, they are omitted to avoid repeated explanations, and the description of the wet wiping module of an embodiment of the present invention can be used.

[0287] In another embodiment of the present invention, the steam chamber joint can be formed on the upper cover 112. That is, in this embodiment, the steam chamber body 1210 can be directly connected to the upper cover 112, and the rear end of the steam chamber body 1210 can be separately configured from the upper cover 112 at a predetermined interval to form a vent hole 1220. At this time, a moisture passage hole 117c can be formed between the steam transfer pipe 117 connected to the upper cover and the steam chamber body 1210.

[0288] In this case, a hole can be formed in the water tank 120 facing the steam chamber body 1210 so that the steam chamber body 1210 is exposed to the outside.

[0289] On the other hand, refer to Figure 1 The vacuum cleaner 1 of the present invention may include an extension tube 300.

[0290] The extension tube 300 can be combined with the vacuum cleaner body 400 and the wet cloth module 100.

[0291] For example, the extension tube 300 can be formed into a long cylindrical shape. Therefore, the internal space of the extension tube 300 can communicate with the internal space of the wet cloth module 100. In addition, the extension tube 300 can communicate with the suction flow path formed in the suction section of the vacuum cleaner body 400.

[0292] When suction is generated by the suction motor (not shown), suction can be supplied to the wet cleaning module 100 through the extension tube 300. Therefore, external dust and air can flow into the vacuum cleaner body 400 through the wet cleaning module 100 and the extension tube 300. In addition, the dust and air flowing in through the wet cleaning module 100 can flow into the vacuum cleaner body 400 after passing through the extension tube 300.

[0293] On the other hand, wires can be built into the extension tube 300. Therefore, the vacuum cleaner body 400 and the wet cloth module 100 can be electrically connected through the extension tube 300.

[0294] On the other hand, refer to Figure 1 The vacuum cleaner 1 of the present invention may include a vacuum cleaner body 400.

[0295] The vacuum cleaner body 400 may include a suction motor, a dustbin, and a battery. The vacuum cleaner body 400 can receive power from the battery to operate the suction motor, and the operation of the suction motor can generate suction.

[0296] The vacuum cleaner body 400 may have a suction flow path for the flow of air and dust flowing in from the wet cloth module 100.

[0297] Furthermore, the vacuum cleaner body 400 may be provided with at least one cyclone section, which employs the principle of a dust collector using centrifugal force to separate the dust drawn into the interior. Therefore, the air flowing in through the suction path can separate dust as it flows in a spiral pattern.

[0298] Furthermore, the vacuum cleaner body 400 is equipped with a dustbin, which can store the dust separated from the sucked-in air by the cyclone flow.

[0299] Furthermore, the battery can supply power to the wet wipe module 100. At this time, the battery can also supply power to the drive motor 170 of the wet wipe module 100. Additionally, the battery can supply power to the water pump 133 of the wet wipe module 100.

[0300] The vacuum cleaner body 400 may be equipped with an input section, so that the user can not only set the power supply and the suction strength, but also the rotation strength of the mop, the water supply, whether the water is heated, and whether steam is supplied.

[0301] Although the present invention has been described in detail above with reference to specific embodiments, this is only for the purpose of illustrating the present invention. The present invention is not limited thereto. Obviously, the present invention can be modified or improved by those skilled in the art within the technical concept of the present invention.

[0302] Simple variations or modifications of this invention fall within the scope of this invention, and the specific scope of protection of this invention will be defined in accordance with the appended claims.

Claims

1. A wet wipe module for a vacuum cleaner, used to clean the floor by wiping away debris, wherein... include: Module enclosure; A water tank is located on the upper part of the module cover and stores water inside it; At least one rotating cleaning part is disposed on the lower side of the module cover, and a cleaning cloth can be attached to the rotating cleaning part; The heating unit heats the water supplied from the water tank; A steam chamber, disposed on the upper side of the module housing, is where moisture emitted from the heating element condenses; and A steam transfer path is provided inside the module housing to guide the moisture emitted from the heating unit to the steam chamber.

2. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, wherein, The steam transfer path includes a steam inlet formed for the inflow of moisture discharged from the heating section.

3. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A steam outlet discharges water heated in the heating section into the cloth; as well as A steam inlet is provided for the water discharged from the heating section to flow in; The steam inlet is positioned radially outward from the rotation center of the rotating cleaning unit.

4. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 3, characterized in that, The distance from the rotation center of the rotary cleaning unit to the steam outlet is greater than the radius of the rotary cleaning unit.

5. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 3, characterized in that, The shortest distance from the upper side of the cloth to the steam inlet is greater than the shortest distance from the upper side of the cloth to the steam outlet.

6. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 3, characterized in that, The distance from the rotation center of the rotating cleaning unit to the steam inlet is less than the radius of the rag.

7. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A steam outlet discharges water heated in the heating section into the cloth; as well as A steam inlet is provided for the water discharged from the heating section to flow in; With the rotation center of the rotary cleaning unit as the origin, the angle from the steam inlet to the steam outlet is less than 45 degrees with the rotation direction of the rotary cleaning unit as the reference.

8. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A steam outlet discharges water heated in the heating section into the cloth; as well as A steam inlet is provided for the water discharged from the heating section to flow in; The distance the cloth moves from the steam outlet to the steam inlet is greater than the distance the cloth moves from the steam inlet to the steam outlet.

9. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A steam outlet discharges water heated in the heating section into the cloth; as well as A steam inlet is provided for the water discharged from the heating section to flow in; When a coordinate plane parallel to the rotating cleaning unit is drawn with the rotation center of the rotating cleaning unit as the origin, the steam outlet and the steam inlet are arranged in the same quadrant.

10. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a steam inlet disposed on the lower side of the module cover and for the water discharged from the heating section to flow in; The steam inlets are symmetrically arranged in a pair. The rotating cleaning units are symmetrically arranged in a pair, and the distance between the pair of steam inlets is less than the distance between the rotation centers of the pair of rotating cleaning units.

11. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a steam transfer pipe disposed within the module housing and having the steam transfer flow path formed therein; The steam transfer pipe is formed with a steam inlet for the water discharged from the heating section to flow in. The steam inlet is configured such that its inner diameter increases as it gets closer to the cloth.

12. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 11, wherein, The steam transfer tube also includes a steam guide, which protrudes from one circumferential side of the steam inlet toward the rag with reference to the rotation center of the rotating cleaning part and guides the steam to the steam inlet.

13. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, wherein, The steam chamber includes: The steam chamber body, where moisture emitted from the heating unit condenses inside the steam chamber body; and Ventilation holes are formed in the steam chamber body to allow moisture-containing air to pass through.

14. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 13, wherein, The water tank includes a steam chamber junction that is combined with the steam chamber to form a space for water condensation; The steam chamber joint includes: Moisture flows through the holes into the steam emitted from the heating section, and condensed moisture is discharged. as well as The guide surface is formed by sloping downwards from the vent hole toward the moisture passage hole.

15. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, wherein, Also includes: A steam outlet discharges water heated in the heating section into the cloth; as well as The flow blocking section, with at least a portion of it arranged on a concentric circle with the steam outlet, is based on the rotation center of the rotating cleaning section, thereby blocking the flow of water discharged from the steam outlet.

16. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 15, characterized in that, It also includes a steam inlet for the water discharged from the heating section to flow in; The flow blocking part is positioned closer to the steam inlet than the steam outlet.

17. A wet wipe module for a vacuum cleaner, used for cleaning by wiping away foreign objects on the floor, characterized in that... include: Module enclosure; A connecting tube is attached to the module cover to connect the module cover to the vacuum cleaner body; A water tank, which is integrated with the module cover, stores water inside it; At least one rotating cleaning part is disposed on the lower side of the module cover, and a cleaning cloth can be attached to the rotating cleaning part; The heating unit heats the water supplied from the water tank; as well as The steam chamber is where moisture emitted from the heating unit condenses. The steam chamber protrudes outward from the module cover and is positioned closer to the front than the connecting pipe.

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