Self-driving surface cleaning robot

Abstract

Self-driving surface cleaning robot, characterized in that it includes: an outdoor enclosure arrangement; and a cleaning arrangement mounted on the outer housing arrangement, wherein the cleaning arrangement touches a surface to be cleaned by friction in order to clean that surface; the cleaning arrangement includes: an outer casing attached to the outer casing assembly; a cleaning element designed to clean the surface to be cleaned; and an adjustment mechanism connected to both the outer housing and the cleaning element, which changes the height of the cleaning element relative to the outer housing in response to a received drive force; wherein the adjustment mechanism comprises a leadscrew and a sleeve, wherein at least a part of the sleeve can be brought into threaded engagement with the leadscrew, such that when either the leadscrew or the sleeve receives the drive force, the sleeve and the leadscrew perform a relative axial movement via the threaded connection.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present utility model relates to the technical field of household cleaning equipment, in particular to a self-driving surface cleaning robot. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Household vacuum cleaners clean rooms by sucking up dust and other particles from the floor. Some household vacuum cleaners include a mop attachment. Cleaning fluid can be applied to this mop. As the mop rotates, it can then wet-clean the floor, improving the cleaning effect.

[0003] To prevent the mop from colliding with obstacles during operation, the mop height can be adjusted on existing household vacuum cleaners. This adjustment also allows the mop to clean different floor types.

[0004] However, modern household vacuum cleaners with height-adjustable mops use a sleeve fitting mechanism. With prolonged use, this sleeve fitting can fail, leading to a deviation from coaxial alignment. CONTENTS OF THE PRESENT SAMPLE FOR USE

[0005] The present utility model relates to a self-driving surface cleaning robot.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present utility model, a self-propelled surface cleaning robot is provided, comprising: an outer housing assembly; and a cleaning assembly mounted on the outer housing assembly, wherein the cleaning assembly is in frictional contact with a surface to be cleaned in order to clean that surface; wherein the cleaning assembly comprises: an outer housing mounted on the outer housing assembly; a cleaning element for force-assisted cleaning of the surface to be cleaned; and an adjustment mechanism connected to both the outer housing and the cleaning element, which changes the height of the cleaning element relative to the outer housing in response to the applied drive force; The adjustment mechanism comprises a leadscrew and a sleeve, wherein at least a portion of the sleeve can be threaded into the leadscrew.If either the leadscrew or the sleeve receives the driving force, the sleeve and the leadscrew perform a relative axial movement via the threaded connection.

[0007] In at least one embodiment of the self-propelled surface cleaning robot according to the present utility model, the cleaning arrangement further comprises: a second drive motor which is arranged inside the outer housing and is configured to supply the drive force to the lead screw.

[0008] In at least one embodiment of the self-driving surface cleaning robot according to the present utility model, the sleeve comprises a free end to which the cleaning element is detachably connected.

[0009] According to at least one embodiment of the self-driving surface cleaning robot of the present utility model, the sleeve comprises an inner sleeve which is screwed to the lead screw.

[0010] According to at least one embodiment of the self-propelled surface cleaning robot of the present utility model, the cleaning arrangement further comprises a stop element which is attached to the free end of the lead screw in order to limit the axial stroke of the sleeve relative to the lead screw.

[0011] According to at least one embodiment of the present utility model, the stop element of the self-propelled surface cleaning robot abuts at least a part of the sleeve in its end position.

[0012] In at least one embodiment of the self-propelled surface cleaning robot according to the present utility model, the stop element abuts the inner cylinder end of the sleeve in the end position.

[0013] In at least one embodiment of the self-driving surface cleaning robot according to the present utility model, the cleaning arrangement further comprises a damping element that is arranged between the sleeve and the outer housing.

[0014] In at least one embodiment of the self-driving surface cleaning robot according to the present utility model, the damping element generates both circumferential damping friction and axial damping friction between the sleeve and the outer housing, wherein the frictional force of the circumferential damping friction is greater than that of the axial damping friction.

[0015] According to at least one embodiment of the self-driving surface cleaning robot according to the present utility model, the outer housing comprises a downwardly extending cylindrical component, wherein the damping element is positioned between the cylindrical component and the sleeve.

[0016] According to at least one embodiment of the self-driving surface cleaning robot of the present utility model, the damping element is fixedly distributed in the circumferential direction at the free end of the cylindrical component.

[0017] In at least one embodiment of the self-driving surface cleaning robot according to the present utility model, the damping element comprises a damping ring that fits snugly over the free end of the cylindrical component.

[0018] In at least one embodiment of the self-driving surface cleaning robot according to the present utility model, the damping ring is attached to the outside of the cylindrical component. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] The accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present utility model and, together with the accompanying description, serve to explain the principles of the present utility model. These drawings are included to facilitate a better understanding of the present utility model and form part of this description. Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic structure diagram of a surface cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Fig. Figure 2 is a schematic structure diagram of the surface cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present utility model, viewed from a different perspective. Fig. Figure 3 is a schematic structure diagram of the surface cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present utility model in another state. Fig. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the surface cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present utility model in a different state from a different perspective. Fig. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of the surface cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Fig. Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of the surface cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Fig. Figure 7 is a schematic representation of the cleaning arrangement and the first drive assembly of the surface cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Fig. Figure 8 is a schematic representation of the cleaning arrangement in the extended position according to an embodiment of the surface cleaning device of the present utility model. Fig. Figure 9 is a schematic representation of the cleaning arrangement of the surface cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present utility model in its initial position. Fig. Figure 10 is a schematic representation of the elastic element of the surface cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Fig. Figure 11 is a schematic representation of the intermediate element according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Fig. Figure 12 is a schematic representation of the cleaning arrangement according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Fig. Figure 13 is a schematic structure diagram of the cleaning arrangement according to another aspect of the present utility model, viewed from a different perspective. Fig. Figure 14 is a schematic sectional diagram of the cleaning arrangement according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Fig. Figure 15 is a schematic structure diagram of a substructure of the cleaning arrangement according to an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0020] The specific reference symbols in the figures are: 100 external housing arrangement 101 inner support 200 side brush assembly 300 Sweeping device 400 steering wheel 500 wheels 600 Cleaning order 610 Outdoor housing 611 cylindrical component 620 second drive assembly 630 cleaning element 640 Adjustment mechanism 641 Lead screw 642 sleeve 642A Inner sleeve 650 damping element 660 Stop element 700 first drive assembly 710 first drive motor 720 actuator 730 driven element 740 Intermediate element 741 first phase of action 742 second phase of action 742A Sliding section 742B advantage 742B1 first intervention area 742B2 second intervention surface 800 elastic element. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The present utility model is now described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings and embodiments. It is understood that the specific embodiments described here serve solely for illustrative purposes and do not constitute any limitations to the scope of the present utility model. It should also be noted that, for the sake of clarity, the drawings depict only those elements relevant to the present utility model.

[0022] It should be noted that the embodiments of this utility model and the features within these embodiments can be combined with one another, provided there is no conflict. The technical solutions of this utility model are now described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and in conjunction with the embodiments.

[0023] Unless otherwise stated, the exemplary embodiments / examples shown are to be understood as illustrative features that provide various details of the possibilities of how the technical concept of the present utility model can be implemented in practice. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, the features of different embodiments / examples can be additionally combined, separated, exchanged and / or rearranged without deviating from the technical concept of the present utility model.

[0024] The hatching and / or shading used in the drawings generally serves to make the boundaries between adjacent components more easily identifiable. Unless otherwise specified, the presence or absence of hatching or shading therefore does not convey or indicate any preference or requirement regarding the specific material, material properties, dimensions, proportions, commonalities between the components shown, and / or other features, characteristics, or properties of the components. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity and / or descriptiveness, the dimensions and relative dimensions of the components may be exaggerated in the drawings. Where exemplary embodiments can be implemented differently, certain process steps may be carried out in a different sequence than described.For example, two processes described consecutively can be carried out essentially simultaneously or in reverse order to the described sequence. Furthermore, identical reference symbols denote identical components.

[0025] When a component is described as being "on" or "above" another component, or as being "connected to" or "coupled with" another component, that component may be directly on top of, directly connected to, or directly coupled with the other component, or there may be intermediate components. However, when a component is described as being "directly on," "directly with," or "directly coupled with" another component, there are no intermediate components. For this purpose, the term "connection" can refer to physical connections, electrical connections, etc., with or without intermediate components.

[0026] For descriptive purposes, this utility model may use spatial relative terms such as "below," "under," "in the way," "below," "above," "on," "over," "higher," and "side" (e.g., as in "side wall") to describe the relationship between one component and another component, as shown in the drawings. Beyond the orientations shown in the drawings, spatial relative terms are intended to encompass various orientations of the device during use, operation, and / or manufacture. For example, if the device in the drawings were reversed, a component described as "below" or "under" another component or feature would subsequently be positioned "above" that other component or feature. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can encompass both the "above" and "below" orientations.Furthermore, the device can be positioned alternatively (e.g. rotated by 90 degrees or in other orientations), with the corresponding spatial relative descriptions used here being interpreted accordingly.

[0027] The terminology used herein serves to describe specific embodiments and is not intended to be restrictive. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, singular forms such as "one" and "the" are to be understood as including plural forms. When the terms "comprehensive" and / or "inclusive" and their variants are used herein, they indicate the presence of the specified features, units, steps, operations, parts, components, and / or groups thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, units, steps, operations, parts, components, and / or groups thereof. It should also be noted that the terms "essentially," "approximately," and other similar expressions as used herein are to be understood as approximations rather than degrees of certainty.They are therefore used to account for inherent deviations in measurements, calculations and / or values ​​that are known to a person skilled in the art.

[0028] Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic structure diagram of the surface cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present utility model, seen from an angle. Fig. Figure 2 is a schematic structure diagram of the surface cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present utility model, seen from a different angle.

[0029] As in the Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the surface cleaning device of the present utility model can be an autonomous surface cleaning device. For example, the autonomous surface cleaning device can be a sweeping robot, a mopping robot, an autonomous surface cleaning robot, or an integrated sweeping and mopping robot. The autonomous surface cleaning device is capable of moving autonomously over a surface to be cleaned and vacuuming up particles located on that surface in order to clean them.

[0030] The forward direction of the in the Fig. 1 and Fig. The surface cleaning device shown in Figure 2 is directed forward. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the forward direction of the surface cleaning device is the X-direction and the reverse direction is the Y-direction. Accordingly, the direction perpendicular to the forward and reverse directions is defined as the lateral direction.

[0031] The surface cleaning device can comprise an outer housing assembly 100. The outer housing assembly 100 is configured to form the body of the surface cleaning device. The base of the outer housing assembly 100 is equipped with a steering wheel 400 and wheels 500. The steering wheel 400 is used to change the direction of movement of the surface cleaning device. The wheels 500 are used to drive the surface cleaning device. The steering wheel 400 is positioned at the front of the outer housing assembly 100. The cleaning assembly 600 is rotatably connected to the underside of the outer housing assembly 100. The cleaning assembly 600 is located at the rear of the outer housing assembly 100.

[0032] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the number of running wheels 500 is two. The two running wheels 500 are each positioned approximately in the center longitudinally along the outer housing assembly 100 and on both sides transversely along the outer housing assembly 100. The number of steering wheels 400 is one. The steering wheel 400 can be a swivel caster. The swivel caster is positioned laterally in the center of the surface cleaning device and near the front end of the surface cleaning device. Of course, the number of steering wheels 400 can also be two or more.

[0033] The 500-series impellers can be driven and rotated. By controlling the 500-series impellers to rotate at a constant speed, the surface cleaning device can be moved forwards or backwards. By controlling the 500-series impellers to rotate at varying speeds, the surface cleaning device can be steered to turn.

[0034] The outer housing assembly 100 can further comprise a side brush assembly 200. The number of side brush assemblies 200 can be one or two. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the number of side brush assemblies is 200. The side brush assembly 200 is positioned on the right side of the front end of the outer housing assembly 100. By rotating the side brush assembly 200, dirt on the surface to be cleaned can be agitated and the surface cleaned.

[0035] The outer housing assembly 100 can further comprise a sweeping device 300. The sweeping device 300 is arranged longitudinally in the center of the outer housing assembly 100. The longitudinal direction of the sweeping device 300 corresponds to the lateral direction of the outer housing assembly 100. The sweeping device 300 can be a roller brush. The roller brush is rotatably connected to the outer housing assembly 100. The axis of rotation of the roller brush runs parallel to the surface to be cleaned (e.g., a floor). Fig. Figure 2 illustrates the specific design of the cleaning arrangement in the form of a roller brush. The axis of rotation of the roller brush runs parallel to the surface to be cleaned. As the roller brush rotates, it sweeps the surface to be cleaned.

[0036] The rotating roller brush within the 300 sweeper loosens dirt on the surface to be cleaned. This dirt is then vacuumed into the dust container of the surface cleaning device. The dust container separates solid particles.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, the outer housing assembly 100 can further comprise a cleaning assembly 600. The cleaning assembly 600 is rotatably connected to the outer housing assembly 100. The cleaning assembly 600 is configured to come into frictional contact with the surface to be cleaned in order to clean that surface.

[0038] Fig. Figure 3 is a schematic structural diagram of the surface cleaning device in another state. Fig. Figure 4 is a schematic structure diagram of the surface cleaning device in a different state, viewed from a different angle. Fig. Figure 5 is a schematic structure diagram of a part of the surface cleaning device. Fig. Figure 6 is a partial schematic diagram of the surface cleaning device. Fig. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the cleaning element and the first drive component of the surface cleaning device. Fig. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the cleaning element of the surface cleaning device in an extended position. Fig. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the cleaning element of the surface cleaning device in a starting position. Fig. Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the elastic element of the surface cleaning device.

[0039] As in the Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9 to Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the cleaning arrangement 600 is attached to the outer housing arrangement 100. The cleaning arrangement 600 moves relative to the outer housing arrangement 100 between a starting position (retracted position) and an extended position (extended position). The starting position corresponds to that shown in Figure 10. Fig. The configuration shown in section 2 can also be referred to as the retracted position. The extended position corresponds to the configuration shown in the following sections. Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 configurations shown and can also be referred to as the extended position.

[0040] The outer housing assembly 100 can include an inner support 101. The cleaning assembly 600 is pivotably mounted on the inner support 101. For example, the cleaning assembly 600 is rotatably connected to the inner support 101 via a rotary shaft. In a preferred embodiment, the rotary shaft is arranged substantially vertically.

[0041] The cleaning assembly 600 further includes a self-rotating axis. The self-rotating axis is configured to be essentially vertically oriented. There is a predetermined distance between the self-rotating axis and the axis of rotation of the rotary axis. As the cleaning assembly 600 rotates around the rotary axis, it can move between its initial position and its extended position.

[0042] The cleaning arrangement 600 can be driven by a first drive assembly 700, thereby enabling rotation of the cleaning arrangement 600 relative to the outer housing arrangement 100. The first drive assembly 700 comprises a first drive motor 710, an actuator 720, a driven element 730, and an intermediate element 740.

[0043] The first drive motor 710 is positioned within the outer housing assembly 100. For example, the first drive motor 710 is positioned within the inner bracket 101. The first drive motor 710 can be an electric motor. In a preferred embodiment, the axis of rotation of the first drive motor 710 can be a vertical line.

[0044] The actuator 720 is connected to the output shaft of the first drive motor 710 via a transmission mechanism. In a preferred embodiment, the actuator 720 can be a gear. The first drive motor 710 is capable of driving the actuator 720 to rotate it. The axis of rotation of the actuator 720 is identical to that of the first drive motor 710.

[0045] The intermediate element 740 is rotatably mounted on the outer housing assembly 100. Under the action of the actuator 720, the intermediate element 740 can pivot relative to the outer housing assembly 100. The axis of rotation of the intermediate element 740 is essentially vertically oriented.

[0046] The intermediate element 740 comprises a first working section 741 and a second working section 742. The first working section 741 comprises a plurality of gear teeth. The second working section 742 comprises a sliding section 742A and a projection 742B extending along the sliding section 742A. The intermediate element 740 of the present utility model is thus designed as an incomplete gear structure. An opening is formed circumferentially between the two ends of the incomplete gear structure. The opening has a predetermined width. The sliding section 742A and the projection 742B are formed circumferentially at one end of the half-gear structure.

[0047] The intermediate element 740 interacts with the actuator 720 at the first working section 741. That is, through the meshing of the gear teeth with the multiple teeth, the actuator 720 is able to drive the intermediate element 740 to rotate.

[0048] The intermediate element 740 interacts with the driven element 730 at the second actuating section 742. This means that the driven element 730 can be rotated by the engagement of the second actuating section 742 with the driven element 730.

[0049] In other words, the driven element 730 is rotatably mounted within the outer housing assembly 100 and changes its position relative to the outer housing assembly 100. The driven element 730 is pivotable about the axis of rotation relative to the outer housing assembly 100. The axis of rotation of the driven element 730 relative to the outer housing assembly 100 coincides with the axis of rotation of the cleaning assembly 600 relative to the outer housing assembly 100.

[0050] Additionally, the intermediate element 740 is positioned between the actuator 720 and the driven element 730. The intermediate element 740 is configured to engage with the driven element 730. Consequently, the driven element 730 is able to receive the actuating force from the actuating element 720 and change its position relative to the outer housing assembly 100. At this point, the driven element 730 indirectly receives the action of the actuating element 720; that is, it is directly acted upon by the intermediate element 740.

[0051] The driven element 730 comprises a projecting section. The projecting section is designed to engage slidably with the projection 742B. More precisely, the projection 742B comprises a first engagement surface 742B1 and a second engagement surface 742B2. In the initial position, the first working surface 742B1 engages the projection. In the extended position, the second working surface 742B2 engages the projection. Consequently, the driven element 730 can be rotated about the projection 742B, thereby moving the cleaning arrangement 600 from the extended position to the initial position.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the projection remains in sliding engagement with the projection 742B at positions between the initial position and the extended position.

[0053] The cleaning arrangement 600 can comprise an outer housing 610, a second drive assembly 620 and a cleaning element 630.

[0054] The outer housing 610 is rotatably mounted on the outer housing assembly 100. The outer housing 610 is rotatably mounted on the inner bracket 101. The axis of rotation of the outer housing 610 relative to the outer housing assembly 100 forms the axis of rotation of the cleaning assembly 600 relative to the outer housing assembly 100.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment, the cleaning arrangement 600 is connected to the driven element 730. When the driven element 730 is driven and rotates, the cleaning arrangement 600 can consequently rotate together with the driven element 730. Preferably, the driven element 730 can be formed integrally with the outer housing 610 of the cleaning arrangement 600.

[0056] The cleaning element 630 can be pivotally mounted on the driven element 730. Alternatively, the cleaning element 630 can be pivotally mounted on the outer housing 610. This allows the surface to be cleaned through frictional contact between the cleaning element 630 and the surface.

[0057] Preferably, the second drive assembly 620 is attached to the driven element 730 (or alternatively, the second drive assembly 620 is attached to the outer housing 610) and connected to the cleaning element 630. The second drive assembly 620 drives the cleaning element 630 to rotate relative to the driven element 730. At this point, the axis of rotation of the cleaning element 630 forms the axis of rotation.

[0058] In the present utility model application, the elastic element 800 acts on the cleaning arrangement 600 and the outer housing arrangement 100. When the cleaning arrangement 600 is in the extended position, the elastic element 800 generates an elastic force between the cleaning arrangement 600 and the outer housing arrangement 100 in order to limit the movement of the cleaning arrangement 600 relative to the outer housing arrangement 100 from the extended position towards the initial position.

[0059] The elastic element 800 comprises a first free end and a second free end. The second free end is positioned opposite the first free end. The first free end acts on the cleaning assembly 600. The second free end acts on the outer housing assembly 100. In a preferred embodiment, the elastic element 800 is a torsion spring. The cleaning assembly 600 is slidably connected to the outer housing assembly 100 via a pivot shaft. The torsion spring is fitted over the pivot shaft. Accordingly, the first free end acts on the driven element 730, while the second free end acts on the outer housing assembly 100. Consequently, the driven element 730 (or the cleaning assembly 600) can be subjected to the action of the elastic element 800. The elastic element 800 allows the cleaning assembly 600 to exhibit a tendency to move toward an extended position.

[0060] During operation of the self-propelled surface cleaning robot, the cleaning assembly 600 can extend outwards, thereby increasing the cleaning area of ​​the surface to be cleaned and improving cleaning efficiency. Furthermore, the elastic element 800 allows the cleaning assembly 600 to remain in the extended position. Upon contact with an obstacle, the cleaning assembly 600 retracts to its initial position. This design minimizes damage to the cleaning assembly 600 and thus extends the service life of the self-propelled surface cleaning robot.

[0061] The second drive assembly 620 of the cleaning arrangement 600 further drives the cleaning element 630 to move vertically.

[0062] Fig. Figure 12 is a schematic structure diagram of the cleaning arrangement. Fig. Figure 13 is a schematic structure diagram of the cleaning arrangement from a different perspective. Fig. Figure 14 is a schematic sectional diagram of the cleaning arrangement. Fig. Figure 15 is a schematic structure diagram of part of the cleaning arrangement.

[0063] As in the Fig. 12, Fig. 13 to Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the cleaning arrangement 600 can further comprise an adjustment mechanism 640. The adjustment mechanism 640 is connected to the outer housing 610 and the cleaning element 630. The adjustment mechanism 640 receives a drive force to change the height of the cleaning element 630 relative to the outer housing 610.

[0064] In one particular embodiment, the second drive assembly 620 is configured to provide the drive force for the adjustment mechanism 640. The adjustment mechanism 640 regulates the distance between the cleaning element 630 and the surface to be cleaned. For example, the second drive assembly 620 may include a second drive motor. The second drive motor is positioned inside the outer housing 610. The second drive motor is configured to exert a drive force on the leadscrew 641, thereby transmitting the drive force from the second drive motor to the leadscrew 641.

[0065] The second drive motor can transmit the drive force to the leadscrew 641 via a worm gear or gear drive assembly. The worm gear or gear drive assembly can be implemented using prior art solutions, which are not discussed in detail in this utility model description.

[0066] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the adjusting mechanism 640 can comprise a leadscrew 641 and a sleeve 642. At least part of the sleeve 642 is screwed to the leadscrew 641. When either the leadscrew 641 or the sleeve 642 receives a drive force, the sleeve 642 and the leadscrew 641 move axially relative to each other via the threaded connection.

[0067] This means that when the leadscrew 641 is driven and rotates, a relative change in position in the axial direction occurs between the leadscrew 641 and the sleeve 642 when the sleeve 642 is held stationary. Alternatively, a relative change in position in the axial direction also occurs between the leadscrew 641 and the sleeve 642 when the sleeve 642 rotates, but its rotational speed is lower than that of the leadscrew 641 (i.e., when the leadscrew 641 and the sleeve 642 rotate at different speeds). Since the cleaning element 630 is located at the lower end of the sleeve 642 and the position of the leadscrew 641 remains unchanged in the vertical direction, the cleaning element 630 is simultaneously subjected to a lifting and lowering motion. The cleaning element 630 can move between a lowered position and a raised position relative to the outer housing assembly 100.In the present utility model application, the cleaning element 630 is positioned closer to the outer housing arrangement 100 in the raised position than in the lowered position.

[0068] Simultaneously, when the cleaning element 630 is in the lowered position, it can come into contact with the surface to be cleaned under pressure. When the cleaning element 630 is in the raised position, it can detach from the surface to be cleaned. In the raised position, the cleaning element 630 can thus avoid obstacles on the surface to be cleaned, preventing a collision between these obstacles and the cleaning element 630.

[0069] In the present utility model application, the second drive motor is connected to the cleaning element 630, enabling the cleaning element 630 to rotate about the axis of rotation. In particular, the second drive motor is not directly connected to the cleaning element 630, but transmits the power to the cleaning element 630 via the adjustment mechanism 640, thereby causing it to rotate.

[0070] When the second drive motor drives the leadscrew 641 to rotate in a first direction, the leadscrew 641 drives the sleeve 642 to move downwards, thus positioning the cleaning element 630 in a lowered position. At this point, the sleeve 642 does not move further downwards relative to the leadscrew 641, but rotates together with the leadscrew 641, thereby rotating the cleaning element 630 in the first direction. When the second drive motor drives the leadscrew 641 to rotate in a second direction, the leadscrew 641 drives the sleeve 642 to move upwards, thus bringing the cleaning element 630 into a raised position. At this point, the sleeve 642 no longer moves upwards relative to the leadscrew 641. In the raised position, the cleaning element 630 does not need to clean the surface to be cleaned; the second drive motor can adjust the rotation accordingly.However, if the second drive motor continues to rotate the leadscrew 641 in the second direction, the leadscrew 641 drives the sleeve 642 to rotate in the second direction. Accordingly, the cleaning element 630 rotates in the second direction.

[0071] Based on the above-mentioned structure, the second drive motor is able to drive both the vertical movement of the cleaning element 630 and the rotary movement of the cleaning element 630.

[0072] In the present utility model application, during the process in which the second drive motor drives the cleaning element 630 to raise or lower it, the rotational movement of the sleeve 642 should be stopped as much as possible so that the sleeve 642 can perform the raising and lowering movement as quickly as possible. At this point, the cleaning arrangement 600 may additionally include a damping element 650. The damping element 650 is positioned between the outer housing 610 and the adjusting mechanism 640. During the transition of the cleaning element 630 between the lowered position and the raised position, the damping element 650 provides a first torque centered on the axis of rotation. The adjusting mechanism 640 provides a second torque centered on the axis of rotation. The first torque is greater than the second torque.

[0073] In particular, the damping element 650 stops the rotation of the cleaning element 630 relative to the outer housing 610 during the transition of the cleaning element 630 between the lowered position and the raised position.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment, the damping element 650 generates both circumferential static friction (circumferential damping friction) and axial static friction (axial damping friction) between the outer housing 610 and the adjusting mechanism 640. The circumferential static friction force (circumferential damping friction) is greater than the axial static friction force (axial damping friction). Consequently, the damping element 650 is able to suppress the rotation of the sleeve 642 as much as possible, thereby promoting the axial movement of the sleeve 642 relative to the damping element 650.

[0075] In the present utility model, the damping element 650 exerts the first torque on the water distribution chamber via the circumferential static friction force. The leadscrew 641 and the sleeve 642 exert the second torque via their threaded connection. The second torque arises at least from the thread friction between the leadscrew 641 and the sleeve 642. If the first torque exceeds the second torque, the damping element 650 accordingly minimizes the rotation of the sleeve 642. Consequently, the sleeve 642 performs a vertical movement when the leadscrew 641 rotates.

[0076] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the sleeve 642 has a free end. The cleaning element 630 is detachably connected to this free end. The free end of the sleeve 642 forms the lower end of the sleeve 642. The detachable connection of the cleaning element 630 to the free end of the sleeve 642 allows for convenient maintenance and replacement work on the cleaning element 630.

[0077] In a specific embodiment, the sleeve 642 comprises an inner sleeve 642A. An internal threaded bore is formed in the center of the inner sleeve 642A. The inner sleeve 642A can be screwed to the leadscrew 641 through this internal threaded bore.

[0078] The cleaning arrangement 600 may further comprise a stop element 660. In the present utility model application, the stop element 660 may be provided in a quantity of two. One stop element 660 may form a shoulder located at the upper end of the leadscrew 641. The other stop element 660 may be a stop disc at the lower end of the leadscrew 641. The stop elements 660 may be attached to the free end of the leadscrew 641 to limit the axial stroke of the sleeve 642 relative to the leadscrew 641.

[0079] In the end position, the stop element 660 abuts at least a part of the sleeve 642. For example, the stop element 660 can abut the end of the inner sleeve 642A of the sleeve 642.

[0080] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 14, the cleaning element 630 is in the lowered position. In the lowered position, the stop disc abuts the lower end of the sleeve 642. When the cleaning element 630 is in the raised position, the shoulder of the leadscrew 641 can also engage in the upper end of the inner sleeve 642A of the sleeve 642 in the raised position, thereby preventing further upward movement of the sleeve 642.

[0081] In a preferred embodiment, the outer housing 610 comprises a downwardly extending cylindrical component 611. The damping element 650 is positioned between the cylindrical component 611 and the sleeve 642. Even more preferably, the damping element 650 is distributed circumferentially in a defined manner at the free end of the cylindrical component 611.

[0082] The damping element 650 can, for example, be a damping ring. The damping ring is placed over the free end of the cylindrical component 611 and positioned on the outside of the cylindrical component 611. This means that the lower end of the cylindrical component 611 can be inserted into the sleeve 642, thereby holding the damping element 650 between the cylindrical component 611 and the sleeve 642.

[0083] In the surface cleaning device of the present utility model, the engagement between the lead screw 641 and the sleeve 642 enables a relatively long thread engagement length, thereby effectively eliminating the failure of the sleeve engagement that occurs in the previous technology.

[0084] In the description of this specification, the terms “one embodiment / mode”, “some embodiments / modes”, “example”, “specific example”, or “some examples” indicate that the specific features, structures, materials, or properties described in connection with that embodiment / mode or example are included in at least one embodiment / mode or example of the present application. In this specification, the illustrative use of the aforementioned terms need not necessarily refer to the same embodiment / mode or example. Furthermore, the described specific features, structures, materials, or properties may be combined appropriately in one or more embodiments / modes or examples.Furthermore, provided that this does not contradict each other, experts may combine and integrate different embodiments / methods or examples described herein with features from different embodiments / methods or examples.

[0085] Furthermore, the terms “first” and “second” are used solely for descriptive purposes and should not be interpreted as indicating or implying any relative meaning or as referring to the number of technical features specified. Consequently, features designated as “first” or “second” may explicitly or implicitly comprise at least one such feature. In the description of this application, “a plurality” means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless expressly and specifically stated otherwise.

[0086] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments mentioned above serve only to clearly illustrate the present utility model and are not intended to limit its scope. For those skilled in the field, other variations or modifications may be made based on the above disclosure, which will also remain within the scope of the present utility model.

Claims

[1] Self-driving surface cleaning robot, characterized by that it includes: an outdoor enclosure arrangement; and a cleaning arrangement mounted on the outer housing arrangement, wherein the cleaning arrangement touches a surface to be cleaned by friction in order to clean that surface; the cleaning arrangement includes: an outer casing attached to the outer casing assembly; a cleaning element designed to clean the surface to be cleaned; and an adjustment mechanism connected to both the outer housing and the cleaning element, which changes the height of the cleaning element relative to the outer housing in response to a received drive force; wherein the adjustment mechanism comprises a leadscrew and a sleeve, wherein at least a part of the sleeve can be brought into threaded engagement with the leadscrew, such that when either the leadscrew or the sleeve receives the drive force, the sleeve and the leadscrew perform a relative axial movement via the threaded connection. [2] Self-driving surface cleaning robot according to claim 1, characterized by , that the cleaning arrangement further comprises a second drive motor which is mounted inside the outer housing and configured to supply the drive force to the leadscrew. [3] Self-driving surface cleaning robot according to claim 1, characterized bythat the sleeve has a free end to which the cleaning element is detachably attached. [4] Self-driving surface cleaning robot according to claim 1, characterized by that the sleeve includes an inner sleeve which is screwed to the leadscrew. [5] Self-driving surface cleaning robot according to claim 1, characterized by , that the cleaning arrangement further comprises a stop element which is attached to the free end of the leadscrew in order to limit the axial stroke of the sleeve relative to the leadscrew. [6] Self-driving surface cleaning robot according to claim 5, characterized by that the stop element rests against at least part of the sleeve in the final position. [7] Self-driving surface cleaning robot according to claim 6, characterized by that the stop element rests against the inner end of the cylinder of the sleeve in the final position. [8] Self-driving surface cleaning robot according to claim 1, characterized bythat the cleaning arrangement further comprises a damping element which is arranged between the sleeve and the outer casing. [9] Self-driving surface cleaning robot according to claim 8, characterized by , that the damping element generates both circumferential damping friction and axial damping friction between the sleeve and the outer housing, with the frictional force of the circumferential damping friction being greater than that of the axial damping friction. [10] Self-driving surface cleaning robot according to claim 8, characterized by , that the outer casing comprises a downwardly extending cylindrical component, wherein the damping element is positioned between the cylindrical component and the sleeve. [11] Self-driving surface cleaning robot according to claim 10, characterized by , that the damping element is distributed circumferentially at the free end of the cylindrical component. [12] Self-driving surface cleaning robot according to claim 11, characterized by that the damping element includes a damping ring that fits over the free end of the cylindrical component. [13] Self-driving surface cleaning robot according to claim 12, characterized by that the damping ring is attached to the outside of the cylindrical component.

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