Wet cloth module for a vacuum cleaner
By incorporating a steam chamber and inflow path into the wet cloth module of the vacuum cleaner, combined with a steam transfer pipe and a light-emitting module, the problems of insufficient steam supply, severe heat loss, and low cleaning efficiency are solved, achieving efficient sterilization and safe cleaning.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- LG ELECTRONICS INC
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-12
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-10
AI Technical Summary
Existing vacuum cleaners' wet wipe modules suffer from problems such as insufficient steam supply, significant heat loss, low cleaning efficiency, poor sterilization effect, and inadequate user safety.
A wet cloth module for a vacuum cleaner was designed. A steam chamber and a steam inflow path are set on the bottom surface of the module cover. Steam is condensed in the steam chamber and the steam flow is controlled by the steam transfer pipe and valve. The generation of steam is confirmed by the light-emitting module, and the steam is guided to the cloth by the rotating cleaning part and the guide surface.
It enables users to instantly confirm steam generation, reduces heat loss, improves sterilization and foreign object removal effects, enhances cleaning efficiency, and ensures user safety.
Smart Images

Figure CN122373940A_ABST
Abstract
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, US Patent 9320405B2 (April 26, 2016) discloses a cleaning device with an observation window that can confirm the condensation of steam.
[0018] 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.
[0019] 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.
[0020] In addition, since the distance from the heating element to the cloth is relatively far, there is a limitation that more heat may be lost as the water heated in the heating element flows to the foot assembly.
[0021] 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.
[0022] 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.
[0023] 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.
[0024] 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.
[0025] 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. 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 immediately 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 attached to a module cover including a frame portion surrounding the bottom surface and disposed on the frame portion, to condense the moisture emitted from the heating section.
[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, the wet wiping module of one embodiment of the present invention has a guiding surface that guides the movement of steam to the bottom surface of the module cover.
[0037] At this point, a flow path can be formed between the rotating cleaning section and the bottom surface of the module cover to guide the steam emitted from the diffuser to flow into the steam chamber.
[0038] Therefore, steam is emitted from the steam outlet and supplies moisture and heat to the cloth, and can diffuse radially outward under the action of centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the cloth and flow along the guide surface and into the steam chamber.
[0039] At this time, the distance from the rotation center of the rotary cleaning section to the steam outlet of the diffuser can be greater than the radius of the rotary cleaning section.
[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 directly discharged from the steam outlet onto the rag, and the steam from the rag can flow into the steam inflow path.
[0042] 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.
[0043] On the other hand, the wet cloth module of one embodiment of the present invention may also include a steam chamber lighting, wherein the steam chamber lighting is disposed inside the module cover and illuminates the steam chamber.
[0044] This allows for a clear confirmation of the state of moisture condensation in the steam chamber.
[0045] On the other hand, the wet cloth module of another embodiment of the present invention may further include a diffuser having a steam outlet for supplying water heated in the heating section to the cloth; the diffuser may include a steam transfer pipe that branches off from the steam outlet to guide steam to the steam chamber.
[0046] Therefore, the steam emitted from the steam outlet can be immediately supplied to the steam chamber, and the user can quickly identify the generation of steam.
[0047] On the other hand, the diffuser may also include a valve disposed in the steam transfer pipe, which opens when steam flows in at a specified pressure or above.
[0048] In this situation, when the steam pressure increases instantaneously in the initial stage of steam generation, steam can be supplied to the steam chamber.
[0049] This allows steam to be supplied to the steam chamber quickly in the initial stage of steam generation, thus providing a high response speed. At the same time, steam is supplied to the steam chamber only when the user needs to identify the generation of steam, and then the steam flow is blocked, thereby preventing steam loss.
[0050] Invention Effects
[0051] 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.
[0052] 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.
[0053] In addition, by placing the steam chamber on the left and right sides of the rear of the module cover, it allows users who are cleaning while observing the wet mop module from behind to immediately recognize the fact that steam is being generated.
[0054] In addition, since the steam inflow path that guides steam to the steam chamber is located on the upper side of the rotating cloth, and the steam inflow path is located further away from the rotation center of the cloth than the steam outlet, it has the effect of allowing the steam discharged onto the cloth to diffuse and consume heat before flowing into the steam chamber.
[0055] Therefore, it has the effect of preventing heat loss from the cloth supplied in order to confirm the generation of steam.
[0056] 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.
[0057] In addition, since the diffuser is equipped with a separate steam transfer pipe that supplies steam to the steam chamber, and a valve is installed on the steam transfer pipe, steam is delivered to the steam chamber only when it is needed, and then the flow of steam is blocked, thereby preventing heat loss. 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 bottom surface of the module cover in a wet wiping cloth module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0068] Figure 11 This is a perspective view illustrating the rotating cleaning section in a wet cloth module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0069] Figure 12 This is a bottom view illustrating the state of removing the cloth in the wet cloth module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0070] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the flow path of steam in a wet wiping module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0071] Figure 14 yes Figure 12 A magnified view of a portion of the image.
[0072] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the diffuser in a wet wipe module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation
[0073] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0074] 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.
[0075] 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 figure shows an exploded perspective view of the heating element in a wet wipe module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 The diagram shows the bottom surface of the module cover in a wet wiping module for illustrating an embodiment of the present invention.
[0076] 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.
[0077] Reference Figures 1 to 10 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.
[0078] 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.
[0079] 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.
[0080] 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.
[0081] 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.
[0082] 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.
[0083] 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.
[0084] 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 body 400, but is not limited to this.
[0085] 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.
[0086] 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.
[0087] 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.
[0088] 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.
[0089] 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.
[0090] 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.
[0091] 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.
[0092] 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.
[0093] 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.
[0094] The lower cover 111 can be fitted with a rotating cleaning unit 140 and form the appearance of a wet wiping module 100.
[0095] The lower cover 111 may include a bottom surface 111a incorporating the rotating cleaning unit 140. At this time, the lower side of the bottom surface 111a 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 111a may be provided with a water supply unit 130, a heating unit 136 and a drive motor 170.
[0096] On the other hand, refer to Figure 10 A steam chamber joint 111b may be provided on the bottom surface 111a of the lower cover 111. The steam chamber joint 111b is combined with the steam chamber 200 to form a space for condensation.
[0097] The steam chamber joint 111b can be symmetrically arranged on the left and right ends of the rear side of the lower cover 111.
[0098] At this time, the distance from the rotation center of the rotary cleaning unit 140 to the steam chamber joint 111b can be greater than the radius of the rotary cleaning unit 140. In addition, the distance from the rotation center of the rotary cleaning unit 140 to the steam chamber joint 111b can be less than the radius of the wiping cloth 150.
[0099] Therefore, the steam chamber joint 111b can be positioned above the area where the cloth 150 rotates. With this configuration, steam evaporating around the cloth 150 can flow into the steam chamber 200 through the steam chamber joint 111b.
[0100] A steam chamber 200 can be attached to the upper side of the steam chamber joint 111b. Therefore, the steam chamber 200 and the steam chamber joint 111b can be attached together to form a space for containing steam inside.
[0101] On the other hand, a steam inflow path 230 can be formed at the steam chamber joint 111b. The steam inflow path 230 can be disposed on the upper side of the cloth 150 to allow steam evaporating on the cloth 150 to flow in.
[0102] On the other hand, at least one filter 111ba may be formed at the steam chamber joint 111b to prevent foreign matter from entering the interior of the steam chamber 200. That is, at least one filter 111ba may be formed protruding from the steam chamber joint 111b to block steam from flowing into a part of the flow path 230.
[0103] With the configuration described above, it has the effect of preventing foreign objects attached to the rag 150 or foreign objects tangled together due to moisture from flowing into the steam chamber 200 through the steam inflow path 230.
[0104] A guide surface 111c may be formed on the bottom surface 111a of the lower cover 111. The guide surface 111c may be formed at a position facing the rotating cleaning part 140 and inclined towards the steam chamber 200.
[0105] At this time, the guide surface 111c can be formed in a fan-shaped area that connects to the lower end of the steam chamber 200 from the rotation center of the rotary cleaning section 140.
[0106] Furthermore, the guide surface 111c can be configured such that the distance between it and the rotating cleaning section 140 increases as it moves radially outward from the rotation center of the rotating cleaning section 140 toward the steam chamber 200. That is, the guide surface 111c can be formed with an inclined surface, so that the closer the position of the rotating cleaning section 140 is to the steam chamber 200, the higher the distance from it to the ground.
[0107] With this configuration, the upward flow of steam and the centrifugal force of the cloth 150 can be used to guide steam into the steam chamber 200.
[0108] On the other hand, the bottom surface 111a can be integrally connected to the steam chamber joint 111b. However, since the guide surface 111c is closer to the steam chamber 200 and thus higher from the ground, a height difference may occur between it and the steam chamber joint 111b. In this case, in the present invention, a space for gas flow can be formed between the guide surface 111c and the steam chamber joint 111b (see reference). Figure 13 ).
[0109] With this configuration, steam and air flowing along the guide surface 111c can flow into the space formed between the guide surface 111c and the steam chamber joint 111b and flow into the interior of the steam chamber 200.
[0110] A sealing gasket 111d may be attached to the bottom surface 111a of the lower cover 111.
[0111] The sealing gasket 111d can be formed of a material that can block the passage of moisture.
[0112] The sealing gasket 111d can be configured to be adjacent to and connected to the junction 111b of the diffuser 137 and the steam chamber. Furthermore, the sealing gasket 111d can be formed as a ring. Therefore, when the bottom surface 111d of the module housing 110 is viewed, the sealing gasket 111d is exposed in a ring shape connecting the diffuser 137 and the steam chamber junction 111b.
[0113] With the configuration described above, it has the effect of preventing water that flies out when the rag 150 rotates from flowing into the module cover 110.
[0114] Additionally, a steam transfer pipe 137b can be disposed between the bottom surface 111a of the lower cover 111 and the sealing gasket 111d. This allows steam emitted from the diffuser 137 to be guided to the steam chamber 200.
[0115] Therefore, according to the present invention, steam can flow rapidly into the steam transfer pipe 137b and be rapidly supplied to the steam chamber 200, thereby enabling the user to quickly confirm whether steam has been injected.
[0116] 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.
[0117] 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.
[0118] 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).
[0119] 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.
[0120] 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.
[0121] 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.
[0122] 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.
[0123] 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.
[0124] 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.
[0125] 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.
[0126] 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 111a of the lower cover 111.
[0127] Therefore, the height of the front part of the flow path can be made lower than the height of the rear part.
[0128] 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.
[0129] 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.
[0130] 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.
[0131] 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.
[0132] 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.
[0133] 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.
[0134] 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.
[0135] 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.
[0136] 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.
[0137] 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.
[0138] 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.
[0139] 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.
[0140] 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.
[0141] 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.
[0142] On the other hand, the module cover 110 may also include a frame portion 113 surrounding the bottom surface 111a. Specifically, the frame portion 113 may be disposed on the side of the module cover 100. For example, the frame portion 113 is located above the outer periphery of the bottom surface 111a of the lower cover 111 and below the outer periphery of the upper side surface of the upper cover 112. The frame portion 113 may be formed by combining a portion of the lower cover 111 and a portion of the upper cover 112. The frame portion 113 is configured to connect the bottom surface 111a of the lower cover 111 and the upper side surface of the upper cover 112 to each other.
[0143] According to the present invention, in the case of a cordless vacuum cleaner 1, a variety of cleaning functions can be provided by replacing the vacuum cleaner module including the wet cloth module 100. For this purpose, the wet cloth module 100 needs to be provided with a heating part 136 that provides heat to the cloth 150 and a drive motor 170 that provides rotational force to the cloth 150.
[0144] Therefore, in order to accommodate the relatively large heating element 136 and drive motor 170, the module cover 110 needs a space of a specified height, and a frame portion 113 is needed to support the space and protect the heating element 136 and drive motor 170.
[0145] Therefore, in this invention, a heating element 136 and a drive motor 170 may be disposed on the inner side of the frame portion 113.
[0146] On the other hand, a steam chamber 200 may be attached to the outer side of the frame portion 113. The steam chamber 200 needs to be positioned in a location that is easy for the user to check.
[0147] At this point, in this invention, by incorporating the steam chamber 200 onto the outer side of the frame portion 113, the vertical height is reduced. Consequently, the wet cloth module 100 can be introduced into the narrower space under furniture or chairs, thereby increasing the area that can be cleaned.
[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] 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.
[0160] 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.
[0161] The water tank connection 131 can activate the valve (not shown) inside the water tank 120, allowing water to flow.
[0162] 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.
[0163] 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.
[0164] 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.
[0165] A water pump 133 for controlling the discharge of water from the water tank 120 can be installed in the upper cover 112.
[0166] 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.
[0167] 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.
[0168] 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.
[0169] 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.
[0170] The heating unit 136 is a device for heating water. The heating unit 136 is disposed inside the module cover 110. Specifically, the heating unit 136 is disposed on the upper side of the lower cover 111.
[0171] 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.
[0172] 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.
[0173] 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.
[0174] 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.
[0175] 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.
[0176] 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.
[0177] 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.
[0178] 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.
[0179] 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.
[0180] 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.
[0181] In addition, the wastewater generated inside the heating section 136 can be kept inside and heated without being discharged to the outside.
[0182] 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.
[0183] 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.
[0184] 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.
[0185] 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.
[0186] 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.
[0187] 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.
[0188] 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.
[0189] 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.
[0190] 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.
[0191] 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.
[0192] 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.
[0193] 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.
[0194] 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.
[0195] 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.
[0196] 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.
[0197] The overheat circuit breaker 136h can be configured in the heating chamber 136a at a location where heat is concentrated.
[0198] 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.
[0199] The temperature detection unit 136i can measure the temperature of the heating unit 136.
[0200] The temperature detection unit 136i can be disposed on the side of the heating chamber 136a.
[0201] 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.
[0202] The diffuser 137 is configured to discharge water from the water tank 120 into the rag 150.
[0203] 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.
[0204] 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.
[0205] 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.
[0206] 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.
[0207] 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.
[0208] 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.
[0209] 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.
[0210] At this time, the rotating cleaning unit 140 can be arranged parallel to the ground while the wet cloth module 100 is placed on the ground.
[0211] Regarding this, Figure 11 The diagram shows a perspective view of the rotating cleaning section in a wet wiping module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0212] Reference Figure 11The rotating cleaning unit 140 includes a rotating cleaning unit body 140a and blades 140b.
[0213] The rotating cleaning unit body 140a can be formed in the shape of a disc, with its upper side facing the bottom surface 111a of the lower cover 111 and its lower side facing the cleaning cloth 150. In this case, the rotating cleaning unit body 140a can be arranged parallel to at least a portion of the bottom surface 111a of the lower cover 111.
[0214] A shaft for transmitting power to the drive motor 170 can be connected to the rotation center of the rotary cleaning unit body 140a. In addition, a circumferentially protruding step can be formed at the radially outer end of the rotary cleaning unit body 140a.
[0215] The blade 140b can be formed on the upper side of the rotary cleaning unit body 140a. The blade 140b can be formed by protruding from the upper side of the rotary cleaning unit body 140a toward the module cover 110.
[0216] The blade 140b can be formed by protruding in an arc shape from the center of rotation of the rotating cleaning part body 140a toward the radially outward direction.
[0217] With the configuration described above, when the rotating cleaning unit body 140a rotates, the blade 140b can rotate together with the rotating cleaning unit body 140a and act as a rotating wing.
[0218] With the configuration described above, the blade 140b can cause the air and steam present between the bottom surface 111a of the lower cover 111 and the rotating cleaning part body 140a to flow radially outward.
[0219] Therefore, according to the present invention, steam discharged from the steam outlet 137a and remaining between the bottom surface 111a of the lower cover 111 and the rotating cleaning part body 140a can be directed towards the steam chamber 200. As a result, it has the effect of minimizing steam waste and rapidly supplying steam to the steam chamber 200.
[0220] On the other hand, the lower side of the rotating cleaning unit body 140a may include an attachment member for attaching the cloth 150. As an example, the attachment member may be Velcro.
[0221] 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.
[0222] Therefore, when the wet wiping module 100 is moved forward and sweeps, the floor can be wiped with the wiping cloth 150 after the foreign objects and air on the ground are sucked in by the suction port 113.
[0223] 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.
[0224] 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.
[0225] 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.
[0226] 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.
[0227] 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.
[0228] 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.
[0229] 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.
[0230] The 150 cloth can wipe the floor by rotating.
[0231] The rag 150 can be attached to the underside of the rotating cleaning unit 140 so that it faces the ground.
[0232] 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.
[0233] 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.
[0234] 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.
[0235] 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.
[0236] 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.
[0237] 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.
[0238] 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.
[0239] 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.
[0240] 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.
[0241] 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.
[0242] 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.
[0243] 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.
[0244] 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.
[0245] 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.
[0246] On the other hand, according to an embodiment, the auxiliary battery may be integrated into the second connecting tube.
[0247] 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.
[0248] 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.
[0249] 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.
[0250] 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.
[0251] on the other hand, Figure 12 The image shown is a bottom view illustrating the state of the cloth being removed in a wet cloth module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view illustrating the flow path of steam in a wet wipe module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0252] Reference Figures 1 to 13 This describes the structure of the steam chamber and the movement path of the steam in a wet wiping module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0253] The wet cloth module 100 of one embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that it further includes a steam chamber 200.
[0254] The steam chamber 200 is configured to condense the steam emitted from the heating section 136.
[0255] At this time, the steam chambers 200 can be set as a pair and can be symmetrically arranged on the left and right ends of the rear side of the module cover 110.
[0256] Typically, the user cleans while observing the surroundings of the wet cloth module 100. At this time, the wet cloth module 100 is positioned in front of the user's direction of movement and moves back and forth in the forward and backward directions according to the user's operation.
[0257] Therefore, when a user uses the wet cloth module 100 to clean, the user's eyes are located at the upper rear of the wet cloth module 100, and the user's gaze will linger on the rear and upper periphery of the wet cloth module 100.
[0258] Therefore, the wet wiping module 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention has the effect of enabling a user to immediately realize the fact that steam is generated while cleaning and observing the periphery of the wet wiping module 100.
[0259] In particular, a connecting pipe 180 is provided at the center of the rear end of the wet cloth module 100 and is connected to the extension pipe 300. As a result, there may be a situation where the user's view of the center of the rear end of the wet cloth module 100 is obstructed by the connecting pipe 180 or the extension pipe 300.
[0260] However, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the wet cloth module 100 has steam chambers 200 arranged at both ends of the rear side of the wet cloth module 100, thereby enabling the user to be aware of the fact that steam is generated without being disturbed by the view of the connecting pipe 180 or the extension pipe 300.
[0261] At this time, the distance from the rotation center of the rotary cleaning unit 140 to the steam chamber 200 can be greater than the radius of the rotary cleaning unit 140. Alternatively, the distance from the rotation center of the rotary cleaning unit 140 to the steam chamber 200 can be less than the radius of the rag 150.
[0262] Therefore, the steam chamber 200 can be positioned above the area where the dishcloth 150 rotates. With this configuration, steam evaporating around the dishcloth 150 can flow into the steam chamber 200.
[0263] The lower side of the steam chamber 200 can be connected to the steam chamber joint 111b. Therefore, the steam chamber 200 can be connected to the steam chamber joint 111b and form a space inside to contain steam.
[0264] On the other hand, the steam chamber 200 includes a steam chamber body 210 and a vent 220.
[0265] Steam can be contained inside the steam chamber body 210 and condensed on the inner surface of the steam chamber body 210.
[0266] For example, the steam chamber body 210 can be symmetrically arranged at both ends of the rear side of the upper cover 112. The steam chamber body 210 can be joined to the steam chamber joint 111b of the lower cover 111 on the lower side.
[0267] The steam chamber body 210 can be formed with an open lower end and with a cross-sectional area that narrows from the lower side to the upper side.
[0268] That is, the steam chamber body 210 includes an inner side facing the module cover 110 and an outer side forming the appearance of the wet cloth module 100, and a space for the flow of steam, water and air is formed between the outer side and the inner side. At this time, the outer side can be inclined with respect to the ground, and can be shaped such that the gap between the outer side and the inner side narrows as it moves from the lower side to the upper side in the direction of gravity.
[0269] With the configuration described above, the steam rising from the cloth 150 can be blocked and condensed on the outer surface. Furthermore, the condensed moisture can flow downwards along the outer surface under the influence of gravity.
[0270] Therefore, the user can confirm whether steam is condensing in the steam chambers 200 located on the left and right sides of the wet cloth module 100. Thus, if steam is generated during cleaning, the user can identify that steam is condensing in the steam chambers 200 located at the top of the wet cloth module 100, thereby immediately confirming whether steam has been generated.
[0271] 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.
[0272] Vent 220 can be formed in the steam chamber body 210 and allow air containing moisture to pass through.
[0273] A vent 220 may be formed on one side of the steam chamber body 210. Specifically, the vent 220 may be formed at the upper end of the steam chamber body 210.
[0274] With the configuration described above, steam flowing into the steam chamber 200 can be discharged to the outside through the vent 220. This configuration has the effect of preventing moisture from accumulating inside the steam chamber 200.
[0275] On the other hand, the wet cloth module 100 of one embodiment of the present invention may also include a steam chamber lighting 240.
[0276] The steam chamber lighting 240 can be disposed inside the module housing 110 and illuminate the steam chamber 200. Specifically, the steam chamber lighting 240 can be disposed inside the module housing 110 and illuminate the outside of the module housing 110. In this case, a portion of the frame surface (outer wall surface) of the inner side of the module housing 110 facing the steam chamber 200 can be formed with a hole for light to pass through or a window made of transparent material. In this case, the light illuminating the steam chamber lighting 240 can pass through the module housing 110 and illuminate the steam chamber 200.
[0277] This allows us to emphasize the state of moisture condensation in the steam chamber 200, thus enabling us to clearly identify this state.
[0278] In addition, when the supply of steam to the steam chamber 200 is stopped, the light emanating from the steam chamber lighting 240 can also dry the moisture condensed inside the steam chamber 200.
[0279] Therefore, in the wet cloth module 100 of one embodiment of the present invention, the steam emitted from the steam outlet 137a can be emitted to the cloth 150, and can diffuse radially outward under the action of centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the cloth 150.
[0280] Afterwards, steam can flow into the steam inflow path 230 and be contained inside the steam chamber 200. A portion of the steam can come into contact with the steam chamber 200 and condense, while the remaining portion can be discharged to the outside through the vent 220.
[0281] Additionally, a portion of the steam discharged from the steam outlet 137a can flow through convection into the space between the rotary cleaning section 140 and the bottom surface 111a of the lower shroud 111. At this time, as the blades 140b of the rotary cleaning section 140 rotate, the steam flowing between the rotary cleaning section 140 and the bottom surface 111a can flow radially outward from the rotary cleaning section 140. During this process, the steam can be guided along the inclined guide surface 111c towards the steam chamber 200, flowing into the space formed between the guide surface 111c and the steam chamber joint 111b, and then into the interior of the steam chamber 200.
[0282] Meanwhile, a portion of the steam evaporated from the rag 150 can also flow through the space between the rotating cleaning part 140 and the steam chamber joint 111b into the guide surface 111c, and then through the space formed between the guide surface 111c and the steam chamber joint 111b into the steam chamber 200.
[0283] on the other hand, Figure 14 The middle shows Figure 12 A magnified view of a portion of the image. Figure 15 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a diffuser in a wet wipe module for illustrating an embodiment of the present invention.
[0284] Reference Figures 12 to 15 This describes the process of supplying steam to the steam chamber 200 using a diffuser 137 in a wet cloth module 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0285] The diffuser 137 of one embodiment of the present invention may further include a steam transfer pipe 137b and a valve 137c.
[0286] The steam transfer pipe 137b can be internally formed with a flow path that guides the moisture discharged from the heating unit 136 to the steam chamber 200.
[0287] The steam transfer pipe 137b can be disposed on the underside of the module housing 110. For example, the steam transfer pipe 137b can be disposed between the bottom surface 111a of the module housing 110 and the sealing gasket 111d.
[0288] One end of the steam transfer pipe 137b can be configured to branch off from the nozzle of the diffuser 137. That is, the flow path formed inside the steam transfer pipe 137b can be configured to communicate with the steam discharge port 137a.
[0289] Furthermore, the other end of the steam transfer pipe 137b can be configured to face the steam inflow path 230. In this case, the flow path formed inside the steam transfer pipe 137b can not only be directly connected to the steam inflow path 230, but also be configured separately from the steam inflow path 230 at a predetermined interval. In this case, the other end of the steam transfer pipe 137b can function as a nozzle.
[0290] Thus, the steam emitted from the steam outlet 137a can be immediately supplied to the steam chamber 200, enabling users to quickly identify the generation of steam.
[0291] Valve 137c can be installed in steam transfer pipe 137b and opens when steam flows in at a specified pressure or above.
[0292] Valve 137c can be installed on steam transfer pipe 137b and open / close the flow path that supplies steam from steam outlet 137a to steam chamber 200.
[0293] At this time, valve 137c can open from steam outlet 137a towards steam chamber 200, but cannot open from steam chamber 200 towards steam outlet 137a. That is, valve 137c can function as a check valve. With the configuration described above, backflow of steam discharged from steam outlet 137c can be prevented.
[0294] Furthermore, valve 137c can only open when the pressure of the gas containing steam is above a preset pressure. That is, valve 137c will not open if steam is discharged from steam outlet 137a at a pressure lower than the preset pressure.
[0295] Typically, in the initial stage of steam being discharged from steam outlet 137a, the heat of the steam is higher than that of the surrounding steam, causing thermal expansion and a sudden increase in pressure. However, the pressure remains constant and tends to stabilize thereafter.
[0296] Therefore, the valve 137c of the present invention only opens and supplies steam to the steam chamber 200 during the initial stage of steam generation when the steam pressure increases instantaneously.
[0297] This configuration enables rapid steam supply to the steam chamber 200 during the initial stage of steam generation, resulting in a high response speed. Simultaneously, after the user needs to identify the steam generation, valve 137c can block the flow of steam through the steam transfer pipe 137b, thereby preventing the loss of steam discharged from the steam outlet 137a.
[0298] On the other hand, refer to Figure 1 The vacuum cleaner 1 of the present invention may include an extension tube 300.
[0299] The extension tube 300 can be combined with the vacuum cleaner body 400 and the wet cloth module 100.
[0300] 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.
[0301] When suction is generated by the suction motor (not shown), suction is supplied to the wet cleaning module 100 through the suction unit and 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. Additionally, 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.
[0302] 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.
[0303] On the other hand, refer to Figure 1 The vacuum cleaner 1 of the present invention may include a vacuum cleaner body 400.
[0304] 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.
[0305] 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.
[0306] 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.
[0307] 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.
[0308] 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.
[0309] 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.
[0310] 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.
[0311] 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: The module housing includes a border portion that surrounds the bottom surface; 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 A steam chamber, integrated with the module cover, is located on the outside of the frame portion, where moisture emitted from the heating element condenses.
2. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a steam inflow path formed in the module cover and guiding the moisture ejected from the heating section to the steam chamber.
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 Steam flows into the flow path, allowing 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 distance from the rotation center of the rotating cleaning unit to the steam inflow path is less than the radius of the wiping cloth.
6. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that, A guide surface is formed on the bottom surface of the module cover. The guide surface is formed at a position facing the rotating cleaning part and is inclined towards the steam chamber.
7. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 6, characterized in that, The guide surface is formed such that the closer it is to the outer radial direction of the steam chamber from the rotation center of the rotating cleaning part, the greater the distance between it and the rotating cleaning part.
8. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, wherein, The rotating cleaning unit includes: Rotary cleaning unit body; and The blade protrudes from one side of the rotating cleaning part body toward the module cover and is formed in a radial arc shape.
9. 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.
10. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The module cover includes a steam chamber joint, which is connected to the steam chamber to form a space for condensation. The distance from the rotation center of the rotary cleaning unit to the steam chamber junction is greater than the radius of the rotary cleaning unit.
11. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steam chambers are arranged in pairs on the left and right sides of the module cover, and the shortest distance between the pair of steam chambers is greater than the distance between the rotation centers of the pair of rotating cleaning parts.
12. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a steam chamber lighting system disposed inside the module housing and illuminating the steam chamber.
13. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a diffuser having a steam outlet that supplies water heated in the heating section to the cloth; The diffuser includes a steam transfer pipe that branches off from the steam outlet and directs steam to the steam chamber.
14. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 13, wherein, The diffuser includes a valve disposed in the steam transfer pipe, which opens when steam at a specified pressure or above flows in.
15. The wet wipe module of the vacuum cleaner according to claim 10, characterized in that, The steam chamber joint has at least one filter section to prevent foreign matter from entering the interior of the steam chamber.