Cleaning device and cleaning system

Abstract

Cleaning device, including: a cleaning base designed for cleaning a surface; and a device body that is functionally connected to the cleaning base and includes: a wastewater tank that is detachably attached to the device body and includes: a wastewater tank body having a first direction extending from an opening of the wastewater tank body to a bottom surface of the wastewater tank body; and a cover bracket that is connected to the wastewater tank body and extends in the first direction, comprising: a filter mesh bag located at a first end of the cover bracket, facing the bottom surface of the wastewater tank body, and extending substantially in the first direction when the wastewater tank is in a mounting position.

Description

REFERENCE TO RELATED REGISTRATION

[0001] This application claims priority over Chinese patent applications Nos. 202210899757.3 and 202210901500.7, which were filed on July 28, 2022, and whose disclosures are hereby incorporated in their entirety by reference as part of this application. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of cleaning technologies and in particular to a cleaning device and a cleaning system. STATE OF THE ART

[0003] With the continuous advancement of technology, cleaning devices such as floor scrubbers are becoming increasingly common in homes. Compared to traditional manual cleaning, floor scrubbers are more time- and labor-efficient. A typical floor scrubber consists of a main unit and a cleaning base. The main unit contains a water recycling tank (e.g., a wastewater tank), a cleaning fluid tank (e.g., a clean water tank), and a main suction fan. The cleaning base includes a brush roll for mopping. Generally, two brush rolls are used to ensure cleaning efficiency. A clean fluid (e.g., water) is sprayed through a built-in hose onto the fluffy brush rolls, which rotate at high speed to scrub the floor.While the cleaning machine is in operation, the water level in the wastewater tank rises continuously. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor the water level in the wastewater tank to prevent it from overflowing. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a cleaning device and a cleaning system are provided.

[0005] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a cleaning device is provided. The cleaning device comprises: a base designed to move across a surface to be cleaned; and a device body that is pivotably connected to the base, the device body comprising: a first sensor arrangement located on the device body, and a wastewater tank which is detachably connected to the device body, the wastewater tank comprising: a wastewater tank body for collecting wastewater and a first float and a second float, which are arranged in the wastewater tank body.

[0006] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing system is provided. The washing system comprises: a docking station; and the cleaning device described above, wherein the docking station is set up to support the cleaning device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The accompanying drawings are included in the description and form part of it, showing embodiments according to the present disclosure and arranged to explain the principles of the present disclosure together with the description. Naturally, the accompanying drawings in the following description provide only some embodiments of the present disclosure, and those skilled in the art can derive other drawings from them without creative effort. The accompanying drawings include: Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a cleaning device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 2 is a schematic structural diagram of a wastewater tank according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 3 is a schematic structural diagram of a wastewater tank body according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 4 is a schematic structural diagram of a cover holder according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 5 is a schematic partial detail diagram of a cover holder according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 6 is a schematic structural diagram of a cleaning system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and Fig. Figure 7 is a schematic exploded view diagram of a docking station according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Description of the reference numbers:

[0008] Cleaning system 100, docking station 10, cleaning device 20, cleaning base 21, brush roll 211, device body 22, handle assembly 23, wastewater tank 25, wastewater tank body 251, wastewater line 2511, handle 2512, cover bracket 252, first support frame 2521, second support frame 2522, third support frame 2523, locking element 2524, filter mesh bag 2525, recess 2526, second through-hole 2527, filter opening 2528, first float cover 2533, second float 2541, second pivot shaft 2542, second float cover 2543, first through-hole 2544, fastening element 2534, second end 255, filter assembly 2551 and clean water tank 26. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0009] To clarify the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this disclosure, it is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is understood that the described embodiments represent only some, but not all, embodiments of this disclosure. All other embodiments that are obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort based on the embodiments in this disclosure fall within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0010] It should be noted that the terms "comprise," "contain," or other variations are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, so that a product or device comprising a number of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or even elements inherent in such a product or device. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "including a..." does not preclude the existence of an additional identical element in the product or device that contains such element.

[0011] A typical cleaning device (e.g., a floor scrubber) comprises a body and a cleaning base. The body contains an internal water recycling tank (e.g., a wastewater tank), a cleaning fluid tank (e.g., a clean water tank), and a main intake fan. The cleaning base includes at least one brush roll for mopping. The number of brush rolls can be, for example, one, two, or more. Generally, two brush rolls are used for efficient cleaning. A clean fluid (e.g., water) is sprayed onto the fluffy brush rolls via a built-in water line. The brush rolls rotate at high speed to mop the floor.At the same time, a main fan creates a negative pressure in an air duct of the cleaning device, so that after cleaning a surface, the wastewater is sucked out through a suction nozzle of the cleaning device and directed into the wastewater tank, using a wastewater return path as part of the air duct of the cleaning device.

[0012] After use, the cleaning device is usually placed back in a docking station where the brush rolls can be cleaned and dried. The brush rolls are dried, for example, by air drying or heat drying.

[0013] The optional embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0014] In current technology, the water level in the wastewater tank of a cleaning device (e.g., a floor scrubber) rises continuously during operation, requiring the user to frequently check the water level to prevent overflow, resulting in a poor user experience. Furthermore, with existing cleaning devices, it is not easy to determine whether the wastewater tank is correctly positioned within the device body.

[0015] For this purpose, a cleaning device is provided according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The cleaning device is equipped with a first sensor arrangement, a first float, and a second float, so that a condition in which the wastewater tank of the cleaning device is full and a condition in which the wastewater tank is not properly installed can be detected in a timely manner, and the blockage of the float on one side can be detected by comparing the signals of the two symmetrical floats.In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the filter mesh bag, which extends longitudinally along the wastewater tank, is arranged such that the space occupied by the wastewater tank is reduced during assembly and filtration can be carried out during the emptying of the wastewater by arranging the filter mesh bag essentially in a horizontal direction, thereby facilitating the filtration of the wastewater in the wastewater tank.

[0016] In particular, as an example of the cleaning device provided by the embodiment of the present disclosure, in Fig. 1 A schematic structural diagram of the cleaning device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the cleaning device 20, for example a floor scrubber, comprises a cleaning base 21, a device body 22, and a handle assembly 23. The device body 22 is positioned above the cleaning base 21 and is movably (e.g., pivotally) connected to the cleaning base 21. The handle assembly 23 is connected to an end of the device body 22 that is away from the cleaning base 21, allowing the user to operate and hold it. The user holds the handle assembly 23 to control the cleaning base 21 and perform cleaning on a surface to be cleaned, for example, the floor.

[0017] To simplify the description, the directions are defined as follows: The floor scrubber can be calibrated by defining the following three mutually perpendicular axes: a transverse axis Y, a longitudinal axis X, and a vertical axis Z. A direction along the arrow of the longitudinal axis X is referred to as "forward," and a direction opposite to the direction along the arrow of the longitudinal axis X is referred to as "backward." The transverse axis Y essentially indicates a direction along the width of the base 21. A direction along the arrow of the transverse axis Y is referred to as "left," and a direction opposite to the arrow of the transverse axis Y is referred to as "right." The vertical axis Z indicates a direction extending perpendicularly from the surface of the cleaning base 21 (i.e., a plane formed by the longitudinal axis X and the transverse axis Y). As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, a direction extending from the handle assembly 23 to the device body 22 or from the device body 22 to the handle assembly 23 is defined as the first direction, and a direction perpendicular to the first direction is defined as the second direction. Generally, when the cleaning device is in a reclined state, as shown in Figure 1, the direction is defined as follows: Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the first direction is essentially a vertical direction, running essentially parallel to the vertical axis Z with a small angle between them, for example, an angle of less than 15 degrees. For example, the first direction is vertically upwards or downwards. The second direction is essentially a horizontal direction, running essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis X or the transverse axis Y. For example, the second direction is a laterally horizontal direction or a longitudinally horizontal direction.

[0018] In some embodiments, the device body 22 refers to the part of the cleaning device located between the cleaning base 21 and the handle assembly 23. The device body 22 extends as a whole in the longitudinal direction, i.e., in the first direction. The handle assembly 23 is connected to the upper end of the device body 22. The cleaning base 21 is connected to the lower end of the device body 22. The device body 22 and the cleaning base 21 are pivotally connected to each other, so that the handle assembly 23 and the device body 22 can rotate relative to the cleaning base 21, thereby changing the working angle to flexibly adjust the cleaning posture. The cleaning base 21 includes a brush roll 211 located on its underside. In particular, the number of brush rolls 211 is, for example, one or more, such as two. The brush roll 211 can rotate at high speed to scrub the floor.

[0019] The cleaning device 20 (e.g., a floor scrubber) further comprises a clean water tank 26 and a wastewater tank 25. The clean water tank 26 and the wastewater tank 25 are both, for example, arranged on the device body 22. In some embodiments, both are detachably connected to the device body 22. The clean water tank 26 is configured to hold a cleaning fluid (e.g., cleaning water, a cleaning agent, or a mixture of both) and can convey the cleaning fluid via a line to the brush roller 211, so that the surface of the brush roller 211 is wetted, thereby enabling wet cleaning of the surface to be cleaned by the brush roller 211. The wastewater tank 25 is configured to hold the recycled wastewater. When the brush roller 211 performs a cleaning action, wastewater is generated on the cleaned surface, which can be returned to the wastewater tank 25 via the wastewater recycling line.

[0020] With reference to the Fig. 2 to Fig. 5 together, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the wastewater tank 25 comprises a wastewater tank body 251 and a cover bracket 252. The wastewater tank body 251 is configured to receive the recycled wastewater, and the wastewater tank body 251 is attached to at least the lower half of the cover bracket 252 and is detachably connected to the cover bracket 252. The wastewater tank 251 includes an opening 2513 and a base 2514.

[0021] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the wastewater tank body 251 includes a wastewater pipe 2511 extending along the surface of the wastewater tank body 251 towards the opening of the wastewater tank body. The wastewater pipe is configured so that wastewater can enter the wastewater tank body 251 from the wastewater pipe 2511 at the brush roller 211 under the action of the fan. The wastewater tank body 251 further includes a projecting handle 2512 to facilitate handling during the installation or removal of the wastewater tank 251.

[0022] In some embodiments, the cover bracket comprises 252, as in Fig. Figure 4 shows a first support frame 2521, a second support frame 2522, and a third support frame 2523. The first support frame 2521 extends longitudinally (first direction) along the wastewater tank body 251. The second support frame 2522 extends at a preset angle to the first support frame 2521, for example, in a substantially vertical direction (second direction). The third support frame 2523 also extends at a preset angle to the first support frame 2521, for example, in a substantially vertical direction (second direction). The third support frame 2523 and the second support frame 2522 can have a symmetrical structure, for example, a symmetrical structure with the first support frame 2521 as the axis in the first direction.In some embodiments, the first support frame 2521, the second support frame 2522, and the third support frame 2523 are formed in one piece, and a smooth curved surface or corner may be provided for the transition between the first support frame 2521 and the second support frame 2522, as well as between the first support frame 2521 and the third support frame 2523. The first support frame 2521, the second support frame 2522, and the third support frame 2523 essentially form a U-shaped structure to improve the stability and strength of the cover bracket 252.

[0023] The cover bracket 252 further comprises a first float and a second float. The first float is arranged on one side of the cover bracket 252, and the second float is symmetrical to the first float and is arranged on the other side of the cover bracket 252. In particular, the first float is arranged on the second support frame 2522, the second float is arranged on the third support frame 2523, and the first float and the second float are each rotatable between the first position and the second position.

[0024] Fig. Figure 5 mainly shows the relationships between the second float 2541 and the associated arrangements. It is understood that the relationships between the first float and the associated arrangements are similar and will not be repeated here. In particular, the first float and the second float 2541 can each move with a change in water level. The following figure illustrates this using the second float 2541 as an example: When the water level is lower than the second float 2541, the second float 2541 is in the lowest position (i.e., the first position in the diagram). Fig. 5), as it is not subject to any buoyancy. When the water level rises and the water comes into contact with the second float 2541, the second float 2541 begins to experience buoyancy and can thus move with the change in water level. If the water level continues to rise, the second float reaches its highest position (i.e., the second position in) due to the limitations of the structure. Fig. 5), to which it can move. The first float and the second float 2541 operate on the same principle. In particular, the two floats move by pivoting. In some embodiments, the first float and the second float 2541 use small float spheres. The small float spheres take up little space and are inexpensive, so the volume of wastewater that can be held in the wastewater tank can be increased. Furthermore, due to the small volume of the small float sphere, the volume of the small float sphere immersed in the wastewater is very small, which has only a minor impact on the wastewater volume contained in the wastewater tank 25. In combination with the laterally symmetrical structure, the differences in water volume are relatively small when the small float is triggered longitudinally or transversely.Furthermore, the small swimmer ball can increase the swimmer's rotational sensitivity and thus improve detection sensitivity.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first float and the second float 2541 are configured to work in conjunction with a first sensor assembly attached to the device body 22 to monitor whether the wastewater tank 25 is installed in its position. In particular, the first float comprises a second sensor assembly and the second float a third sensor assembly. In one embodiment, the first sensor assembly may comprise one, two, or more components. If the first sensor assembly comprises two or more components, these components may be located at different positions on the device body to generate induction signals by interacting with the second and third sensor assemblies, respectively.When the wastewater tank 25 is mounted in the device body 22, the first float and the second float 2541 are in the first position, and the second sensor assembly and / or the third sensor assembly each generate an induction signal with the first sensor assembly. The induction signal is configured to provide information that the wastewater tank assembly 25 is mounted in its correct position. Conversely, if the wastewater tank 25 is not mounted or is not properly mounted on the device body 22, the second sensor assembly and / or the third sensor assembly do not generate an induction signal with the first sensor assembly, thus issuing a warning message to remind the user to remount the wastewater tank 25.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first sensor arrangement is located on the corresponding device body when the first and second floats are in the first position, and the first and second floats are configured to work in conjunction with the first sensor arrangement located on the device body 22 to monitor the water level in the wastewater tank body 251. In one embodiment, the first sensor arrangement and the first and / or second float can generate induction signals of varying strengths corresponding to different distances within a specific range. For example, the strength of the induction signal decreases with increasing distance.For example, the first sensor array can generate induction signals of decreasing strength within a distance of 1 to 3 cm; at a distance of less than 1 cm, the strength of the induction signal remains unchanged; and at a distance of more than 3 cm, the strength of the induction signal weakens to 0. Therefore, different distances can be defined as threshold ranges. The distance ranges mentioned above can be specific values, such as 1 cm and 3 cm, and these ranges can be continuous or discontinuous. A concrete example is given below using a continuous distance range.For example, the range from 1 cm to 3 cm is subdivided into two distance ranges by 2 cm, namely 1 cm to 2 cm and 2 cm to 3 cm, each of which serves as a detection threshold range for monitoring two conditions: whether the wastewater tank is installed in its place and whether the water is full. When the wastewater tank 25 is installed in the device body 22, the first float and the second float 2541 are in the first position, the second sensor array and / or the third sensor array are located at a first distance (e.g., 2.5 cm, which is within the detection threshold range of 2 cm to 3 cm) from the first sensor array, and the information that the wastewater tank 25 is installed in its place is provided according to the strength of the induction signal generated by the first sensor array.When the wastewater tank 25 is full, the first float and the second float 2541 are in the second position, the second sensor array and / or the third sensor array are at a second distance (e.g., 1.5 cm, which is within the detection threshold range of 1 cm to 2 cm) from the first sensor array, and the information that the wastewater tank 25 is full is provided according to the strength of the induction signal generated by the first sensor array. The procedures for discontinuous distances can be carried out in the same way.

[0027] In some embodiments, the first sensor arrangement comprises two sets of sensor elements. The first set of sensor elements is arranged on the corresponding device body when the first and second floats are in the first position, and the second set of sensor elements is arranged on the corresponding device body when the first and second floats are in the second position. The two sets of sensor elements each work together with the first and / or second float, respectively, to perform the task of full-water monitoring. In particular, the first float comprises a second sensor arrangement, and the second float comprises a third sensor arrangement.When the wastewater tank 25 is mounted in the device body 22, the first float and the second float 2541 are in the first position, and the second sensor assembly and / or the third sensor assembly each generate a first induction signal with the first set of sensor elements. The first induction signal is configured to provide information that the wastewater tank 25 is mounted in place. When the wastewater in the wastewater tank 25 reaches a preset position (for example, the preset position is a full water position, which allows the first float and / or the second float to reach the second position), the second sensor assembly and / or the third sensor assembly each generate a second induction signal with the second set of sensor elements.The second induction signal is set up to provide information that the wastewater tank 25 is full, and then prompts the user to take care of it.

[0028] In some embodiments, the wastewater tank 25 can be determined to be full as long as one of the first and second floats provides a second induction signal. For example, if one of the floats is blocked or jammed or has other defects that prevent it from floating, the other float floats normally, so that the alarm function of the full-water signal can be fulfilled and thus the risk of a wastewater overflow is avoided.

[0029] In some embodiments, the first float includes a second sensor assembly, and the second float includes a third sensor assembly. If the wastewater in the wastewater tank does not reach the preset position, the second and / or third sensor assembly are in the first position, and in response to the wastewater tank being mounted in the device body, at least one of the second and third sensor assemblies generates an induction signal with the first sensor assembly. Based on this first induction signal, the information that the wastewater tank is mounted in place is provided.When the wastewater in the wastewater tank reaches the preset position, at least one of the second and / or third sensor arrays reaches the second position due to the buoyancy of the wastewater. The distance between the second and / or third sensor array and the first sensor array increases, causing the induction signal to disappear. Based on this disappearance of the induction signal, the information that the wastewater tank is full is provided. With such an arrangement, the full water detection function and in-situ mounting can be achieved by providing only one detection position (corresponding to the first position). There is no need for additional circuitry to improve the Hall effect detection arrangement, thus simplifying the detection logic, improving detection efficiency, and reducing the cost of the detection circuit.

[0030] In some embodiments, the detection of an abnormal arrangement of the wastewater tank can be achieved by comparing the two symmetrical floats, namely the first float and the second float. In particular, if the induction signal is generated at only one float, or if the difference between the induction signals generated at the first and second floats exceeds a preset threshold, it can be determined that the wastewater tank has an abnormal arrangement and is not mounted in place, thus prompting the user to take action.

[0031] In some embodiments, the detection of a one-sided float blockage can also be achieved by comparing the two symmetrical floats, namely the first and second floats. Specifically, if the difference between the induction signals generated at the first and second floats exceeds a preset threshold, it can be determined that the float is blocked on one side, prompting the user to address the issue.

[0032] In some embodiments, the first sensor arrangement comprises, for example, but is not limited to, a Hall element, such as a Hall plate and a Hall sensor arrangement; and the second sensor arrangement and the third sensor arrangement comprise, for example, but are not limited to, a magnet.

[0033] In some embodiments, the cover bracket 252 further comprises a first float cover 2533 and a second float cover 2543. The first float cover 2533 can be pivotally mounted on one side of the cover bracket 252, and the second float cover 2543 can be pivotally mounted on the other side of the cover bracket 252. When the first float cover 2533 and the second float cover 2543 are attached to the cover bracket 252, the first float cover 2533 covers the first float and the second float cover 2543 covers the second float 2541. The float covers, positioned outside the floats, can protect the floats and thus prevent debris in the wastewater from blocking the floats or impairing their response to changes in the water level.

[0034] In some embodiments, such as in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the edge of the first float cover 2533 and the second float cover 2543 is provided with at least one fastening element 2534, for example, a buckle. The cover holder 252 is provided at the corresponding position with at least one locking element 2524 (for example, a clamping groove). By the interaction of the fastening element 2534 with the locking element 2524, the first float cover 2533 and the second float cover 2543 can be locked to the cover holder 252, thereby improving the protection for the first and second floats.

[0035] In some embodiments, the surface of the first float cover 2533 and the second float cover 2543 is provided with a plurality of first through-openings 2544. The wastewater in the wastewater tank 25 can flow in or out through the first through-opening 2544, so that the first float and the second float can react quickly to the wastewater level.

[0036] In some embodiments, the second float 2541 includes a second rotating shaft 2542, and the second float 2541 can rotate about the second rotating shaft 2542 between the first position and the second position. Similarly, the first float includes a first rotating shaft, and the first float can rotate freely about the first rotating shaft between the first position and the second position.

[0037] In some embodiments, the cover holder 252 further comprises a filter mesh bag 2525 extending substantially in the same direction as the extension direction of the first support frame 2521. In some embodiments, the filter mesh bag 2525 and the first support frame 2521 are formed integrally. This integral design can increase the overall structural strength and durability of the cover holder 252. The filter mesh bag 2525 can also be detachably connected to the first support frame 2521 to facilitate cleaning by a user and can also be replaced as a consumable. The filter mesh bag 2525 can also be formed integrally with the first support frame 2521, the second support frame 2522, and the third support frame 2523, further increasing the strength and durability of the cover holder 252.

[0038] The filter mesh bag 2525 is arranged at the first end of the cover bracket 252, which faces the bottom surface of the wastewater tank body 251, and the filter mesh bag 2525 extends substantially from the bottom surface of the cover bracket 252 to the bottom surface of the wastewater tank body 251. The filter mesh bag is configured such that, when the wastewater tank 25 is in the arrangement, it extends substantially in the first direction. When wastewater enters the wastewater tank body 251, it does so substantially in the same direction as the flow direction of the wastewater, thus reducing the resistance upon entry of the wastewater into the wastewater tank body 251 and simultaneously reducing the amount of impurities in the wastewater that are trapped in the filter mesh bag 2525.When the wastewater tank 25 is removed for emptying, the user can choose whether to use the filter bag 2525 to filter the wastewater, depending on the specific requirements of the operating environment. Specifically, when using the filter bag 2525, the user can hold the second end 255 of the cover holder 252 so that the receiving surface of the filter bag 2525 faces the direction of wastewater drainage. For example, the filter bag 2525 can filter the wastewater at a predefined angle to the horizontal. This predefined angle between the surface of the filter bag 2525 and the horizontal is between 0 and 90 degrees. This facilitates filtration when the user wants to filter the wastewater.

[0039] In some embodiments, the filter mesh bag comprises 2525, as shown in Fig. Figure 5 shows a recess 2526, which has an opening in the direction opposite to the expansion direction of the second support frame 2522. In this arrangement, the recess 2526 of the filter mesh bag 2525 is oriented towards the outside of the device body 22 to facilitate its use. Optionally, the filter mesh bag is made of a hard material, for example, hard plastics, hard organic materials, metals, or the like, to increase the rigidity of the filter mesh bag 2525 during filtration.

[0040] In some embodiments, the filter mesh bag 2525 further comprises a plurality of secondary through-openings 2527. In some embodiments, the opening of the secondary through-opening 2527 is larger than the opening of the primary through-opening 2544. The selection of different openings makes it possible to filter different sizes of debris in the wastewater. The secondary through-opening 2527 has a larger opening, which facilitates rapid filtration and wastewater flow, while the primary through-opening 2544 has a smaller opening that allows only water to enter the float covers.

[0041] Once the wastewater tank 25 is full, the user removes the wastewater tank from the cleaning body 22 and takes out the cover bracket 252 from the wastewater tank body 251. If the user deems it necessary to filter the wastewater during emptying, one option is to position the cover bracket 252 horizontally to arrange the filter mesh bag 2525 below the wastewater outlet of the wastewater tank body 251. This allows the wastewater, after flowing out of the wastewater tank body 251, to pass through the opening 2526 of the filter mesh bag 2525 and then be discharged through the second opening 2527. This filters out most of the impurities in the wastewater and prevents blockage of the drain by large debris entering the drain (e.g., a sewer or toilet).

[0042] The filter mesh bag 2525 extends in the same direction as the cover holder 252, and the recess 2526 is flat with a smooth concave shape and has a specific angle with respect to the intake and filter sections, allowing the user to more conveniently dispose of the filtered residues and waste for a better user experience. This also facilitates subsequent cleaning.

[0043] Because the filter mesh bag extends lengthwise along the body of the wastewater tank, the space it occupies when installed inside the tank is reduced, and it is less likely that residue will accumulate. The filter function can be used selectively during wastewater emptying, and operation is simple and flexible, thus improving the practicality of the filter installation.

[0044] In some embodiments, the cover bracket 252 may further include a filter opening 2528, in which, for example, gauze or other filter materials may be provided. The filter opening 2528 is arranged on the first support frame 2521 and configured to filter the air. Air can flow through the first support frame 2521 via the filter opening 2528, and as the air flows through the filter opening, airborne particles can be retained by the filter opening 2528 to achieve coarse filtration of the air. The filter opening 2528 is arranged on the first support frame 2521. During wastewater drainage, the first support frame 2521 must be removed from the wastewater tank body. Here, the user can easily see the position of the filter opening 2528, which is arranged on the first support frame 2521 (i.e.,(perceive), so that the effect can be achieved of reminding the user to remove the dirt adhering to the filter opening 2528 in a timely manner. In addition, the position of the filter opening 2528 is near the filter mesh bag 2525, so that the user can wash the filter opening 2528 and the filter mesh bag 2525 together during cleaning. Optionally, the filter opening 2528 can have a single structure, a double-lobed structure, or other multi-lobed structures, which are not limited.

[0045] In some embodiments, the cleaning device 20 further comprises a power source configured to generate an airflow that moves in the same direction within the cleaning device. This airflow carries wastewater (containing solid waste) from a cleaned surface into the cleaning device 20 for recycling. Therefore, the airflow is defined as the recycling airflow. An airflow path through which the recycling airflow travels within the cleaning device 20 is formed by a device air duct. The entire airflow passes through at least sequentially the wastewater nozzle, a dirt collection area (i.e., a wastewater bucket), and the power source of the cleaning device 20. That is, the device air duct includes at least the wastewater nozzle, the dirt collection area (i.e., the wastewater bucket), and the power source.The recycling airflow from the dirt collection area does not transport wastewater, and an airflow path from the wastewater nozzle to the dirt collection area is therefore defined as a recycling path.

[0046] In particular, the energy source can be a suction source, for example, a fan located in the device body 22 and configured to circulate air in the device air duct to form the recycling airflow, thereby providing suction power for wastewater recycling. The wastewater recycling line connects the wastewater suction nozzle and the wastewater tank 25, thus forming part of the device air duct. Under the action of the suction power generated by the fan, the wastewater is drawn through the wastewater recycling line into the wastewater tank 25.

[0047] In some embodiments, such as in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the cover bracket 252 further comprises a second end 255 opposite the first end; the second end 255 is located near the opening of the wastewater tank body 251. The cover bracket 252 further comprises a filter assembly 2551 arranged at the second end 255. The filter assembly 2551 is configured to allow the recycled airflow to circulate through the wastewater line 2511, the filter opening 2528, and the filter assembly 2551. A recycled airflow first passes through the filter opening 2528 to the first filtration stage, then through the filter assembly 2551 to the second filtration stage, and subsequently enters the fan to ensure that the air entering the fan is free of contaminants and to reduce damage to the fan. Optionally, the filter assembly 2551 consists of multi-layered filter cotton and multi-layered gauze. The filter opening 2528 and the filter assembly 2551 can optionally be fitted with the gauze.Naturally, both the filter opening 2528 and the filter assembly 2551 can be provided with the gauze to improve the filter performance. In some embodiments, the cover bracket further comprises a mounting section 2552 of the wastewater tank body, wherein the mounting section is arranged in a circumferential extension at the second end 255 and is configured so that it can be clamped and mounted on the opening of the wastewater tank body 251.

[0048] In the cleaning device provided by the embodiment of the present disclosure, two floats are arranged in the wastewater tank, so that a condition in which the wastewater tank of the cleaning device is full and a condition in which the wastewater tank is in order can be detected in a timely manner, and the blockage of the float on one side can be detected by comparing the signals from the two symmetrical floats.

[0049] In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the filter mesh bag extending longitudinally along the wastewater tank is arranged such that the space occupied by the wastewater tank is reduced during assembly, the accumulation and retention of impurities is prevented, and filtration can be carried out during the draining of the wastewater by arranging the filter mesh bag essentially in a horizontal direction, thereby facilitating the filtration of the wastewater in the wastewater tank and improving the practicality of the filtration support.

[0050] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, a cleaning system 100 is further provided in the present disclosure, comprising a docking station 10 and the cleaning device 20 from the preceding embodiments. The docking station 10 is configured to support the cleaning device 20.

[0051] Fig. Figure 7 is a schematic exploded view of the docking station 10 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, in some embodiments of the present disclosure, a docking station 10 is provided which is configured to support the cleaning device and dry the cleaning parts of the cleaning device. The cleaning device is, for example, a floor scrubber, and the cleaning parts are, for example, brush rollers of the floor scrubber. After completion of the cleaning work, the floor scrubber can be returned to the docking station 10 for support, and various operations (including loading, self-cleaning, drying cycles, or the like) can be carried out at the docking station.

[0052] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 7, the docking station 10 comprises a housing 12 having a receiving chamber 13. For example, the housing 12 includes a base plate 11 and an upper shell clamped onto the base plate 11, the base plate 11 and the upper shell enclosing the receiving chamber 13. The base plate 11 and the upper shell can be removable assemblies or formed as a single piece. The docking station 10 further comprises a fan 14 of the docking station. The fan is arranged in the receiving chamber 13 and configured to generate dry air in the receiving chamber 13. The housing 12 is provided with an air outlet 123 of the docking station. The air outlet is configured to engage with the air outlet on the underside of the device body 22 of the cleaning device, for example, the floor scrubber.

[0053] The cleaning unit's air duct is designed to allow wastewater to flow into the wastewater tank and to transport moist air while the cleaning unit performs the cleaning process. When the cleaning unit is reinserted into the docking station, the docking station's air outlet engages with the cleaning unit's air outlet. Driven by the docking station's fan, dry air from the cleaning unit's air outlet enters the cleaning unit and travels along the air duct to dry the brush roller. Because the air duct encompasses the cleaning unit's wastewater tank, the dry air also passes through the tank, drying its interior walls. This prevents long-term moisture buildup in the wastewater tank and air duct, as well as the formation of dirt.

[0054] In some embodiments, the wastewater tank also includes: a cover bracket which is detachably connected to the wastewater tank body, wherein the first float is arranged on one side of the cover bracket, the second float is arranged on the other side of the cover bracket, and both the first float and the second float are movable between a first position and a second position.

[0055] In some embodiments, the first sensor arrangement outputs a signal indicating that the wastewater tank is installed in the device body, and / or The first sensor array, in response to the water level in the wastewater tank reaching a preset position, outputs a signal indicating that the wastewater tank is full.

[0056] In some embodiments, the first float comprises a second sensor arrangement; and the second float includes a third sensor array, wherein the second sensor arrangement and / or the third sensor arrangement each generate(s) an induction signal with the first sensor arrangement; and The induction signal, which corresponds to the signal indicating that the wastewater tank is full, is a non-induction signal.

[0057] In some embodiments, the cover bracket also includes: a first swimmer cover that covers the first swimmer; and a second float cover that covers the second float.

[0058] In some embodiments, the first float cover can be pivotally arranged on one side of the cover holder; and the second float cover can be pivotally positioned on the other side of the cover bracket, where, in response to the fact that the first float cover and the second float cover are attached to the cover holder, the first float cover covers the first float and the second float cover covers the second float.

[0059] In some embodiments, the first float cover and the second float cover are each provided with a plurality of through-openings.

[0060] In some embodiments, the first float includes a first rotating shaft; the second float includes a second rotating shaft; and The first float and the second float rotate around the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft, respectively, between the first position and the second position.

[0061] In some embodiments, the first sensor arrangement includes a Hall element, and the second and third sensor arrangements include a magnet.

[0062] In some embodiments, the cover bracket includes: a first support frame extending longitudinally along the wastewater tank body; a second support frame extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first support frame; and a third support frame extending in a direction that is essentially perpendicular to the first support frame and symmetrical to the second support frame, where the first float is supported on the second support frame and the second float is supported on the third support frame.

[0063] In some embodiments, the cover bracket also includes: a filter mesh bag that extends essentially in an extension direction of the first support frame.

[0064] In some embodiments, the filter mesh bag is integrally formed with the first support frame.

[0065] In some embodiments, the filter mesh bag includes a recess whose opening direction is opposite to the extension direction of the second support frame.

[0066] In some embodiments, the filter mesh bag comprises a plurality of second through-holes, wherein the opening of the second through-hole is larger than that of the first through-hole.

[0067] In some embodiments, the cover bracket also includes: a gauze arranged on the first support frame and designed to filter air.

[0068] Finally, it should be noted that the embodiments are described progressively, with each embodiment focusing on a feature that distinguishes it from other embodiments, and that cross-references can be made between these embodiments for identical or similar parts. The system or device disclosed in the embodiments is described relatively simply, since the system or device corresponds to the method disclosed in the embodiments, and reference can be made to the description in the "Method" section for the relevant content.

[0069] The embodiments mentioned above serve only to illustrate the technical solutions of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Although the present disclosure has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, it should be clear to a person skilled in the art that he or she may nevertheless make modifications to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or replace some of the technical features with equivalent replacements; and such modifications or replacements do not deviate from the essence of the corresponding technical solutions contained in the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of various embodiments of the present disclosure. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] CH 202210899757.3

[0001] CH 202210901500.7

[0001]

Claims

[1] Cleaning equipment, comprising: a cleaning base designed for cleaning a surface; and a device body that is functionally connected to the cleaning base and includes: a wastewater tank that is detachably attached to the device body and includes: a wastewater tank body having a first direction extending from an opening of the wastewater tank body to a bottom surface of the wastewater tank body; and a cover bracket that is connected to the wastewater tank body and extends in the first direction, comprising: a filter mesh bag located at a first end of the cover bracket, facing the bottom surface of the wastewater tank body, and extending substantially in the first direction when the wastewater tank is in a mounting position. [2] Cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein the cover holder comprises: a first support frame extending in the first direction; a second support frame extending in a second direction; and a third support frame that extends symmetrically to the second support frame in the second direction. [3] Cleaning device according to claim 2, the filter bag is connected to the first support frame; and optionally the filter net bag is formed as a single piece with the first support frame. [4] Cleaning device according to claim 2, wherein the filter mesh bag comprises a concave part with a plurality of openings; or the second support frame and the third support frame are connected to the filter net bag in the first direction. [5] Cleaning device according to claim 1, the filter bag is made of a hard material; and optionally the material from which the filter bag is made is hard plastic. [6] Cleaning device according to claim 2, wherein the wastewater tank body comprises: a wastewater pipe extending from the bottom surface of the wastewater tank body towards the opening of the wastewater tank body. [7] Cleaning device according to claim 6, wherein the cover holder further comprises: a filter assembly located at a second end of the cover bracket next to the opening of the wastewater tank body. [8] Cleaning device according to claim 7, wherein the cover holder further comprises: a filter window designed to filter a return airflow. [9] Cleaning device according to claim 8, wherein the filter window has a one-piece structure. [10] Cleaning device according to claim 8, where the filter window is closer to the second end than the filter mesh bag; and optionally where the filter arrangement is closer to the second end than the filter window. [11] Cleaning device according to claim 8, wherein the return airflow passes successively through the wastewater line, the filter window and the filter arrangement. [12] Cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein the cover holder further comprises: an assembly part of the wastewater tank body, which is located at the second end of the cover bracket, extends along its circumference and is designed to be clamped to the wastewater tank body. [13] Cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein the wastewater tank body further comprises a handle. [14] Cleaning device according to claim 2, where the second direction is essentially perpendicular to the first direction; or wherein the first support frame, the second support frame and the third support frame essentially form a U-shaped structure. [15] Cleaning system, comprising: a docking station; and the cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the docking station is configured to support the cleaning device.

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