Wastewater tank for cleaning device and cleaning device

Abstract

The present invention provides a wastewater tank for cleaning device. The wastewater tank comprises a tank body assembly and an anti-backflow structure (400); the tank body assembly comprising a tank body (100) and a tank cover (200) enclosing an accommodating chamber, the tank cover (200) being provided with an air outlet (210), the accommodating chamber comprising a first chamber (101) located away from the tank cover (200) and a second chamber (102) located close to the tank cover (200), the second chamber (102) being in communication with both the air inlet (131) and the air outlet (210). The anti-backflow structure (400) comprises a blocking member (420) and a flexible member (410), the blocking member (420) being provided with a wastewater flow-through port (4201) connecting the first chamber (101) and the second chamber (102), the flexible member (410) having a closing position for closing the wastewater flow-through port (4201) and an open position for opening the wastewater flow-through port (4201), at least a part of the flexible member (410) being disengaged from contact with the blocking member (420) when the flexible member (410) is in the open position, so that the first chamber (101) is in communication with the second chamber (102).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of cleaning devices, and in particular to a wastewater tank for cleaning device and a cleaning device.

[0002] A floor washer is a cleaning device commonly used in households. An existing floor washer comprises a clean water tank, a water spray system connected to the clean water tank, a recovery system, and a wastewater tank connected to the recovery system. The recovery system comprises a suction motor arranged above the wastewater tank. When using the floor washer, the water spray system sprays water on the floor, and the recovery system sucks wastewater and solid waste into the wastewater tank. The wastewater tank can separate wastewater, solid waste and airflow.

[0003] In the prior art, the wastewater tank is generally separated into a first chamber and a second chamber which communicates with the first chamber through a flat-mouth check valve. The flat-mouth check valve is a structure that opens larger at its inlet than at its outlet. When wastewater flows from the larger opening end to the smaller opening end, it can flow out of the flat-mouth check valve smoothly. When wastewater flows in the reverse direction, it needs to enter from the smaller opening end. Since the flow-through area of the smaller opening end is very small, it is difficult for wastewater to enter the smaller opening end, thereby preventing backflow.

[0004] However, although the flat-mouth check valve can reduce the probability of wastewater backflow to a certain extent, the smaller opening end still has a certain flow-through area, such that when the tilt angle of a cleaning device relative to the floor is small, wastewater may easily flow back from the flat-mouth check valve into the second chamber and then be sucked into the suction motor, affecting the service life of the suction motor.

[0005] The present invention provides a wastewater tank for cleaning device and a cleaning device, so as to solve the problem in the prior art that wastewater in the wastewater tank may easily flow backwards.

[0006] In one aspect, the present invention provides a wastewater tank for cleaning device, comprising a tank body assembly and an anti-backflow structure; the tank body assembly comprising a tank body and a tank cover movably arranged on the tank body, the tank cover and the tank body enclosing an accommodating chamber, the tank body being provided with an air inlet, the tank cover being provided with an air outlet, the accommodating chamber comprising a first chamber located away from the tank cover and a second chamber located close to the tank cover, the second chamber being in communication with the air inlet and the air outlet; the anti-backflow structure comprising a blocking member and a flexible member, the blocking member being provided with a wastewater flow-through port connecting the first chamber and the second chamber, the flexible member having a closing position for closing the wastewater flow-through port and an open position for opening the wastewater flow-through port for communication, at least a part of the flexible member being disengaged from contact with the blocking member when the flexible member is in the open position, so that the first chamber is in communication with the second chamber.

[0007] In the wastewater tank for cleaning device provided by the present invention, the accommodating chamber in the tank body assembly is separated into the first chamber and the second chamber. The second chamber communicates with the air inlet and the air outlet and is used to separate airflow from wastewater and solid waste, while enabling airflow to flow out from the air outlet. Wastewater and solid waste can then enter the first chamber through the wastewater flow-through port and be stored in the first chamber. The first chamber and the second chamber are connected by the wastewater flow-through port. The anti-backflow structure is arranged at the wastewater flow-through port and serves to prevent backflow when the cleaning device is in operation. After the wastewater level rises, the flexible member of the anti-backflow structure will be switched to the closing position to close the wastewater flow-through port, so that wastewater cannot flow back to the first chamber, thereby ensuring the service life of the suction motor.

[0008] In some embodiments, the flexible member is arranged at the side of the wastewater flow-through port facing the first chamber, and a first gap in which the flexible member moves is formed between the blocking member and a chamber wall of the accommodating chamber, the first gap being located in the first chamber.

[0009] With such arrangement, when the wastewater level rises to enter the first gap and thus pushes the flexible member, so as to keep the flexible member is its closing position, thereby reducing the probability of wastewater backflow.

[0010] In some embodiments, when the flexible member is in the open position, one end of the flexible member moves away from the blocking member to connect the second chamber in communication with the first chamber; when the flexible member is in the closing position, liquid in the first chamber enters the first gap and presses the flexible member, so that the flexible member closes the wastewater flow-through port.

[0011] With such arrangement, the flexible member can switch between the closing position and the open position according to conditions in the wastewater tank, which not only ensures that wastewater can flow into the first chamber and gather there, but also can keep the flexible member in a closing state when the wastewater level rises in the first chamber.

[0012] In some embodiments, the wastewater tank further comprises a partition bracket arranged in the accommodating chamber and separating the accommodating chamber into the first chamber and the second chamber; the tank body comprising an outer tube and an inner tube, the outer tube and the tank cover together enclosing the accommodating chamber, the inner tube connecting the interior and the exterior of the accommodating chamber in communication, a first end of the inner tube being arranged opposite to the air outlet and communicating with the exterior of the accommodating chamber, a second end of the inner tube passing through the partition bracket and extending to the second chamber.

[0013] With such arrangement, the inner tube is used for the airflow to pass through, which can carry solid waste and wastewater into the outer tube, where they are separated from the airflow.

[0014] In some embodiments, a weak portion is provided at an upper end of the flexible member, when the flexible member is in the open position, the weak portion being capable of bending so that a lower end of the flexible member can move away from an outer wall of the blocking member.

[0015] With such arrangement, the flexible member may have a thinned area, so that the lower end of the flexible member may move to the open position under the effect of gravity. Thus, wastewater and solid waste gathered in the second chamber can enter the first chamber in time for storage.

[0016] In some embodiments, the weak portion comprises a strip groove arranged on an outer wall of the flexible member and located at the upper end of the flexible member.

[0017] With such arrangement, the weak portion is of a simple structure and convenient to process.

[0018] In some embodiments, the flexible member further comprises a plurality of protrusions arranged at intervals on an outer wall of the flexible member and located at a lower end of the flexible member, a flow-through slot being formed between two adjacent protrusions.

[0019] With such arrangement, when the lower end of the flexible member is pressed against the inner wall of the outer tube, wastewater can still enter the first gap due to the presence of the flow-through slot, so that the flexible member can move from the open position to the closing position.

[0020] In some embodiments, the outer tube comprises a first outer tube section and a second outer tube section connected in sequence, the first outer tube section extending toward the tank cover, the diameter of at least a part of the second outer tube section being greater than the diameter of the first outer tube section, the outer tube further comprising a connecting portion connected the first outer tube section and the second outer tube section, the blocking member being connected to or being part of the side wall of the first outer tube section.

[0021] With such arrangement, the outer tube has a simple structure and a rational structural layout.

[0022] In some embodiments, an insertion boss is provided at a top part of the flexible member, an insertion hole corresponding to the insertion boss being provided at a bottom part of the connecting portion, the insertion boss cooperating with the insertion hole by insertion connection.

[0023] With such arrangement, the flexible member has good mounting tightness.

[0024] In some embodiments, the partition bracket comprises a base and a partition plate arranged on the base; the base being arranged between the inner tube and the outer tube to separate the accommodating chamber into the first chamber and the second chamber; the partition plate being arranged beside the inner tube and separating the second chamber into a wastewater chamber and an airflow chamber, a second gap being provided between the partition plate and the outer tube and connecting the wastewater chamber and the airflow chamber in communication, the airflow chamber being in communication with the air outlet, the wastewater flow-through port connecting the wastewater chamber and the first chamber in communication.

[0025] With such arrangement, the partition plate can separate the accommodating chamber in the tank body assembly into the first chamber and the second chamber, and can further separate the second chamber into the wastewater chamber and the airflow chamber, so that multiple compartments are separated by an integral and single structure, which is optimal. In addition, separating the second chamber into the wastewater chamber and the airflow chamber can further reduce the probability of airflow carrying water vapor and further prolong the service life of the suction motor.

[0026] In some embodiments, the base is provided with an air pressure balancing opening connecting the airflow chamber and the first chamber.

[0027] With such arrangement, the air pressure in the first chamber and the second chamber can be balanced, so that wastewater can flow smoothly from the second chamber to the first chamber.

[0028] In some embodiments, the partition bracket further comprises a mounting frame arranged above the base, the partition plate connecting the base and the mounting frame, the mounting frame being arranged between the tank body and the tank cover and provided with an air flow-through port connecting the airflow chamber and the air outlet.

[0029] With such arrangement, the mounting frame facilitates the mounting of the partition bracket.

[0030] In some embodiments, the partition plate comprises a first plate and a second plate arranged at an angle, the first plate being arranged on the base and extending along the height direction of the wastewater tank; the second plate being located between the air flow-through port and the air outlet end of the inner tube to separate the air outlet end of the inner tube from the air flow-through port.

[0031] With such arrangement, the second plate can block the airflow entering the second chamber and facilitate the separation of airflow and water vapor.

[0032] In some embodiments, the partition plate further comprises an air baffle connecting the first plate and the second plate, a lower edge of the air baffle being lower than the air outlet end of the inner tube and higher than the base, the air outlet end of the inner tube extending into a space surrounded by the first plate, the second plate, the side wall of the outer tube and the air baffle.

[0033] Such arrangement can extend the flow path of airflow in the second chamber and further facilitate the separation of airflow and wastewater.

[0034] In some embodiments, a level detector is further provided in the first chamber.

[0035] Such arrangement can further reduce the risk of damage to the suction motor.

[0036] In another aspect, the present invention further provides a cleaning device, comprising a cleaning assembly, a connecting stick and a wastewater tank, the cleaning assembly and the wastewater tank being both connected to the connecting stick and communicating with each other.

[0037] The cleaning device of the present invention has the advantages of long service life and good user experience due to the presence of the wastewater tank.

[0038] In some embodiments, the cleaning device and the wastewater tank are located at the same side of the connecting stick, the distance between the anti-backflow structure of the wastewater tank and the connecting stick being smaller than the distance between the center line of the wastewater tank and the connecting stick; or, the cleaning assembly and the wastewater tank are located respectively on two sides of the connecting stick, the distance between the anti-backflow structure of the wastewater tank and the connecting stick being greater than the distance between the center line of the wastewater tank and the connecting stick.

[0039] Such arrangement can facilitate the flowing of wastewater into the first chamber.

[0040] The wastewater tank provided by the present invention comprises a tank body assembly and an anti-backflow structure. The tank body assembly has an accommodating chamber separated into a first chamber and a second chamber, wherein the second chamber communicates with the air inlet and the air outlet, a blocking member being provided on the outer tube in the second chamber, a wastewater flow-through port being provided on the blocking member, and a flexible member being provided at an outer side of the wastewater flow-through port, the flexible member having a closing position for closing the wastewater flow-through port and an open position for connecting the wastewater flow-through port and the first chamber.

[0041] When the cleaning device is in use, the cleaning assembly of the cleaning device, such as a floor brush, comes into contact with the floor. An operator holds the handle of the cleaning device to control the movement of the cleaning assembly. At this time, the stick of the cleaning device is in a tilted position. Since the wastewater tank is arranged on the stick body, when the cleaning device is in use, the wastewater tank is also in a tilted position as shown in the figure. When the suction motor operates, wastewater and solid waste are carried by the airflow from the inner tube into the second chamber. At this time, solid waste and wastewater sink to the bottom of the second chamber under the effect of gravity, and airflow is discharged from the air outlet on the tank cover. Since the wastewater tank is in a tilted position at this time, the end of the flexible member moves away from the outer wall of the blocking member under the effect of gravity, so that the flexible member is in an open state. At this time, the second chamber is in communication with the first chamber, so that solid waste and wastewater can flow into the first chamber from the wastewater flow-through port and be stored in the first chamber.

[0042] As the amount of water stored in the first chamber gradually increases, the level of wastewater rises until it touches the flexible member. Since the wastewater tank is in a tilted position while the surface of wastewater is horizontal, the surface of wastewater comes into contact with the flexible member. At this time, the flexible member can be pushed up under a pressing force of the wastewater, and thus can be moved from the open position to the closing position, wherein the wastewater flow-through port is closed to prevent wastewater from flowing back.

[0043] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the present invention and, together with the specification, serve to explain the principles of the present invention. Figure 1 is an exploded schematic view of a wastewater tank provided by an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 is a sectional view in perspective of a wastewater tank provided by an embodiment of the present invention from an angle; Figure 3 is an enlarged schematic view of part A of the wastewater tank of Figure 2; Figure 4 is a sectional view in perspective of a wastewater tank provided by an embodiment of the present invention from another angle; Figure 5 is an enlarged schematic view of part B of Figure 4; Figure 6 is a schematic view of the anti-backflow structure of a wastewater tank provided by an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 is a schematic view of the tank body of a wastewater tank provided by an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 is a schematic view of the partition bracket of a wastewater tank provided by an embodiment of the present invention. Description of references:

[0044] 10: wastewater tank; 100: tank body; 110: bottom plate; 120: outer tube; 121: first outer tube section; 122: second outer tube section; 123: connecting portion; 130: inner tube; 131: air inlet; 101: first chamber; 102: second chamber; 1021: wastewater chamber; 1022: airflow chamber; 103: first gap; 104: second gap; 200: tank cover; 210: air outlet; 220: filtering assembly; 300: partition bracket; 310: base; 311: air pressure balancing opening; 320: partition plate; 321: first plate; 322: second plate; 323: air baffle; 330: mounting frame; 331: air flow-through port; 400: anti-backflow structure; 410: flexible member; 411: weak portion; 412: protrusion; 413: flow-through slot; 414: insertion boss; 420: blocking member; 4201: wastewater flow-through port; 510: first sealing member; 520: second sealing member; 530: third sealing member.

[0045] The above drawings have shown clear embodiments of the present invention, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and text description are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any way, but to illustrate the concept of the present invention to those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments.

[0046] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below, and examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to be used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0047] In the prior art, when a floor washer is used to clean the floor, airflow generated by a suction motor will suck wastewater and solid particles into a wastewater tank, wherein wastewater, solid waste and airflow are separated.

[0048] Specifically, the wastewater tank is generally separated into a first chamber and a second chamber. The bottom of the second chamber is in communication with the first chamber through a flat-mouth check valve. The top of the second chamber is in communication with the air outlet of the wastewater tank. When the floor washer is operating, airflow carries wastewater and solid waste into the second chamber. Wastewater flows into the first chamber through the flat-mouth check valve. Solid waste remains in the second chamber. Airflow is discharged from the air outlet at the top of the second chamber, realizing the separation of liquid, solid and air.

[0049] Since the flat-mouth check valve is a structure having a larger inlet than outlet opening, when wastewater flows from the larger opening end to the smaller opening end, it can flow out of the flat-mouth check valve smoothly. When wastewater flows back, it needs to enter from the smaller opening end. Since the flow-through area of the smaller opening end is very small, it is difficult for wastewater to enter the smaller opening end, thereby preventing backflow.

[0050] However, during the operation of the floor washer, the longer the operating time, the more wastewater will be collected in the wastewater tank. Although the flat-mouth check valve can reduce the probability of wastewater backflow to a certain extent, the smaller opening end still has a certain flow-through area, wastewater may still flow back through the flat-mouth check valve into the second chamber and thus be sucked into the suction motor, affecting the service life of the suction motor.

[0051] In order to solve the above problem, the present invention provides a wastewater tank for cleaning device. The wastewater tank is provided with an anti-backflow structure capable of blocking the wastewater flow-through port, so as to effectively reduce the probability of wastewater backflow.

[0052] The wastewater tank provided by an embodiment of the present invention is described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the wastewater tank provided by an embodiment of the present invention can be used in a cleaning device. By way of example, the cleaning device can be a floor washer.

[0053] Figure 1 is an exploded schematic view of the wastewater tank provided by an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 is a sectional view in perspective of a wastewater tank provided by an embodiment of the present invention from an angle; Figure 3 is an enlarged schematic view of part A of the wastewater tank of Figure 2; Figure 4 is a sectional view in perspective of the wastewater tank provided by an embodiment of the present invention from another angle; Figure 5 is an enlarged schematic view of part B of Figure 4; Figure 6 is a schematic view of the anti-backflow structure of the wastewater tank provided by an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] As shown in Figs. 1 to 6, the wastewater tank of the present embodiment comprises a tank body assembly and an anti-backflow structure 400.

[0055] The tank body assembly comprises a tank body 100 and a tank cover 200 movably arranged on the tank body 100, so that the tank cover 200 can be removed from the tank body 100. The tank cover 200 and the tank body 100 enclose an accommodating chamber. The tank body 100 is provided with an air inlet 131. The tank cover 200 is provided with an air outlet 210. The accommodating chamber comprises a first chamber 101 located away from the tank cover 200 and a second chamber 102 located close to the tank cover 200. The second chamber 102 communicates with both the air inlet 131 and the air outlet 210. The anti-backflow structure 400 comprises a blocking member 420 and a flexible member 410. The blocking member 420 forms blocking between the first chamber 101 and the second chamber 102, and is provided with a wastewater flow-through port 4201 connecting the first chamber 101 and the second chamber 102. The flexible member 410 has a closing position for closing the wastewater flow-through port 4201 and an open position for opening the wastewater flow-through port 4201 for communication. When the flexible member 410 is in the open position, at least a part of the flexible member 410 is disengaged from contact with the blocking member 420, so that the first chamber 101 is in communication with the second chamber 102.

[0056] In the technical solution of the present embodiment, the wastewater tank 10 comprises a tank body 100 and a tank cover 200 covering the tank body 100 and enclosing an accommodating chamber with the tank body 100. The accommodating chamber is separated into a first chamber 101 and a second chamber 102, wherein the second chamber 102 is in communication with the air outlet 210. An outer tube 120 in the second chamber 102 is provided with a blocking member 420 which is provided with a wastewater flow-through port 4201. A flexible member 410 is provided at an outer side of the wastewater flow-through port 4201 and has a closing position for closing the wastewater flow-through port 4201 and an open position for connecting the wastewater flow-through outlet 4201 and the first chamber 101 in communication.

[0057] When the cleaning device is in use, a cleaning assembly of the cleaning device, such as a floor brush, comes into contact with the floor. An operator holds the handle of the cleaning device to control the movement of the cleaning assembly. At this time, the stick of the cleaning device is in a tilted position. Since the wastewater tank 10 is arranged on the stick body, when the cleaning device is in use, the wastewater tank is also in a tilted position as shown in Figure 4. When the suction motor is operating, wastewater and solid waste are carried by the airflow from the inner tube 130 into the second chamber 102. At this time, solid waste and wastewater sink to the bottom of the second chamber under the effect of gravity, while airflow is discharged from the air outlet 210 on the tank cover 200. Since the wastewater tank is in a tilted position at this time, the end of the flexible member 410 moves away from an outer wall of the blocking member 420 under the effect of gravity, so that the flexible member 410 is open. At this time, the second chamber 102 is in communication with the first chamber 101, so that solid waste and wastewater can flow into the first chamber 101 through the wastewater flow-through port 4201 and be stored in the first chamber 101.

[0058] As the amount of water stored in the first chamber 101 gradually increases, the level of wastewater rises until it touches the flexible member 410. Since the wastewater tank is in a tilted position while the surface of wastewater is horizontal, the surface of wastewater comes into contact with the flexible member 410. At this time, the flexible member 410 can be pushed up by the pressing force of wastewater, and thus can move from the open position to the closing position, wherein the wastewater flow-through port 4201 is closed to prevent wastewater from flowing back.

[0059] It should be noted that the flexible member 410 can be made of an elastic material, such as plastic or silicone.

[0060] Specifically, as shown in Figs. 3, 5 and 6, in some embodiments, the flexible member 410 is arranged at the side of the wastewater flow-through port 4201 facing the first chamber 101. A first gap 103 in which the flexible member 410 can move is formed between the blocking member 420 and a chamber wall of the accommodating chamber. The first gap 103 is located in the first chamber.

[0061] Specifically, when the flexible member 410 is in the open position, one end of the flexible member 410 moves away from the blocking member 420 to connect the second chamber 102 in communication with the first chamber 101. When the flexible member 410 is in the closing position, liquid in the first chamber 101 may enter the first gap 103 and presses the flexible member 410, so that the flexible member 410 closes the wastewater flow-through port 4201.

[0062] In such structure, the flexible member 410 is elastic and can be kept in the closing position for blocking the wastewater flow-through port 4201 under the effect of its own elastic restoring force. During the movement of the cleaning device from the upright position gradually to the tilted position relative to the floor, the angle between the cleaning device and the floor gradually decreases, such that the lower end of the flexible member 410 tends to descend under the effect of gravity and the pressing force of wastewater. When the downward force at the lower end of the flexible member 410 overcomes the elastic restoring force of the flexible member 410 itself, the lower end of the flexible member 410 moves away from the blocking member 420, so as to open the wastewater flow-through port 4201. Wastewater and solid waste can thus flow from the second chamber 102 into the first chamber 101 and be collected there.

[0063] As the amount of water stored in the first chamber 101 gradually increases, the level of wastewater rises. Since the wastewater tank is in a tilted position and the surface of wastewater is horizontal, the highest point of the wastewater surface will first flow into the first gap 103 between the blocking member 420 and the outer tube 120. At this time, the flexible member 410 can be pushed up by the pressing force of wastewater in the first chamber 101, and thus can move from the open position to the closing position, blocking the wastewater flow-through port 4201, so as to prevent wastewater from flowing back.

[0064] Further, as shown in Figures 1 to 6, a partition bracket 300 is provided in the accommodating chamber and separates the accommodating chamber into the first chamber 101 and the second chamber 102. The tank body 100 comprises an outer tube 120 and an inner tube 130. The outer tube 120 and the tank cover 200 together enclose the accommodating chamber. The inner tube 130 connects the interior and the exterior of the accommodating chamber in communication. A first end of the inner tube 130 and the air outlet 210 are arranged opposite to each other and communicate with the exterior of the accommodating chamber. A second end of the inner tube 130 passes through the partition bracket 300 to extend to the second chamber 102.

[0065] In such structure, the outer tube 120 and the tank cover 200 together enclose the accommodating chamber. The partition bracket 300 is arranged in the accommodating chamber and separates the accommodating chamber into the first chamber 101 and the second chamber 102. The second chamber 102 is in communication with the air outlet 210. The inner tube 130 passes through the first chamber 101 to enter the second chamber 102. The inner tube 130 is used for the airflow to pass through, which carries solid waste. After the airflow flows out of the inner tube 130, it enters the outer tube 120, and is separated in the outer tube 120. Specifically, airflow can carry solid waste and wastewater into the second chamber 102, while airflow can be discharged from the air outlet 210. Solid waste and wastewater can be gathered in the second chamber 102 before entering the first chamber 101 through the wastewater flow-through port 4201 for storage.

[0066] Further, as shown in Figures 3, 5 and 6, in some embodiments, an upper end of the flexible member 410 is provided with a weak portion 411. When the flexible member 410 is in the open position, the weak portion 411 can bend so that the lower end of the flexible member 410 moves away from an outer wall of the blocking member 420.

[0067] By providing the weak portion 411, a thinned area is provided in the flexible member 410, so that the lower end of the flexible member 410 may move to the open position under the effect of gravity. Thus, wastewater and solid waste gathered in the second chamber 102 can enter the first chamber 101 in a timely manner for storage.

[0068] Specifically, as shown in Figures 3, 5 and 6, in some embodiments, the weak portion 411 comprises a strip groove arranged at an outer wall of the flexible member 410 and located at the upper end of the flexible member 410. It should be noted that the strip groove can be a through slot extending from a first side edge of the flexible member 410 to a second side edge, so that the flexible member 410 can move more flexibly between the open position and the closing position.

[0069] Further, as shown in Figures 3, 5 and 6, in some embodiments, the flexible member 410 further comprises a plurality of protrusions 412 arranged at intervals on an outer wall of the flexible member 410 and located at the lower end of the flexible member 410. A flow-through slot 413 is formed between two adjacent protrusions 412.

[0070] In such structure, when the flexible member 410 is in the open position, the lower end of the flexible member 410 moves away from the blocking member 420 under the effect of gravity. It is possible that the lower end of the flexible member 410 is pressed against the inner wall of the outer tube 120, which may block the wastewater in the first chamber 101 from flowing into the first gap 103. In this case, the flexible member 410 cannot be pushed to the closing position by wastewater. In the present embodiment, by providing a plurality of protrusions 412 at the lower end of the flexible member 410 and forming a flow-through slot 413 between two adjacent protrusions 412, even when the lower end of the flexible member 410 is pressed against the inner wall of the outer tube 120, wastewater can still enter the first gap 103 due to the presence of the flow-through slot 413, so that the flexible member 410 can move from the open position to the closing position.

[0071] The specific structure of the tank body is described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0072] Figure 7 is a schematic view of the structure of the tank body of the wastewater tank provided by an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figs. 1 to 5 and 7, the outer tube 120 comprises a first outer tube section 121 and a second outer tube section 122 connected in sequence. The first outer tube section 121 extends toward the tank cover 200. The diameter of at least a part of the second outer tube section 122 is greater than the diameter of the first outer tube section 121. The connecting portion 123 connects the first outer tube section 121 and the second outer tube section 122. The blocking member 420 is connected to or is part of the side wall of the first outer tube section 121.

[0073] In such structure, the outer diameter of the portion of the second outer tube section 122 where it is connected to the first outer tube section 121 is larger than the outer diameter of the first outer tube section 121. The blocking member 420 is arranged at the bottom of the first outer tube section 121, so that a space can be formed between the blocking member 420 and the first outer tube section 121 for the movement of the flexible member 410. After the flexible member 410 is mounted on the blocking member 420, the first gap 103 can be formed between the blocking member 420 and the first outer tube section 121, so that wastewater can enter the first gap 103 and push the blocking member 420 to block the wastewater flow-through port 4201.

[0074] Of course, in other embodiments not shown in the figures, the diameter of the first outer tube section can also be identical to the diameter of the second outer tube section. The blocking member may be bent so that there is a distance between the blocking member and the second outer tube body. Specifically, the blocking member may comprise a horizontal plate connected to the first outer tube section and a vertical plate connected to the horizontal plate. The wastewater flow-through port is arranged on the vertical plate. The flexible member is arranged at an outer side of the vertical plate. The first gap is still formed between the blocking member and the second outer tube body so that wastewater can enter the first gap.

[0075] Specifically, the connecting portion 123 can be a connecting plate arranged between the first outer tube section 121 and the second outer tube section 122, and the flexible member 410 can be arranged at the bottom of the connecting portion 123. Of course, in other embodiments, the flexible member can also be arranged at an outer side wall of the blocking member or simultaneously arranged at the outer side wall of the blocking member and the bottom of the connecting portion.

[0076] Specifically, in some embodiments, an insertion boss 414 is provided on the top of the flexible member 410, and an insertion hole corresponding to the insertion boss 414 is provided at the bottom of the connecting portion 123. The insertion boss 414 cooperates by insertion connection with the insertion hole. This arrangement facilitates the mounting of the flexible member 410.

[0077] For example, a plurality of insertion bosses 414 can be provided so that the flexible member 410 can be stably connected to the bottom of the connecting portion 123.

[0078] It should also be noted that the insertion boss 414 can also be connected in the insertion hole by means of bonding or injection molding.

[0079] The specific structure of the partition bracket is described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0080] Figure 8 is a schematic view of the structure of the partition bracket of a wastewater tank provided by an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figures 2, 4 and 8, the partition bracket 300 comprises a base 310 and a partition plate 320 arranged on the base 310. The base 310 is arranged between the inner tube 130 and the outer tube 120 to separate the accommodating chamber into the first chamber 101 and the second chamber 102. The partition plate 320 is arranged beside the inner tube 130 and separates the second chamber 102 into a wastewater chamber 1021 and an airflow chamber 1022. There is a second gap 104 between the partition plate 320 and the outer tube 120. The second gap 104 connects the wastewater chamber 1021 and the airflow chamber 1022 in communication. The airflow chamber 1022 communicates with the air outlet 210. The wastewater flow-through port 4201 connecting wastewater chamber 1021 and the first chamber 101 in communication.

[0081] In such structure, the partition plate 320 is arranged beside of the inner tube 130 and separates the second chamber 102 into the wastewater chamber 1021 and the airflow chamber 1022. The air outlet end of the inner tube 130 is located in the wastewater chamber 1021. When the cleaning device is operating, wastewater and solid waste is carried by airflow into the wastewater chamber 1021. Due to the blocking of the partition plate 320, wastewater and solid waste can gather in the wastewater chamber 1021 and enter the first chamber 101 from the wastewater chamber 1021 to be collected there. Airflow, after first entering the wastewater chamber 1021, enters the airflow chamber 1022 through the second gap 104 between the partition plate 320 and the outer tube 120, before being finally discharged from the air outlet 210 on the tank cover 200. Thus, by providing the partition plate 320, the probability of wastewater being discharged from the air outlet 210 along with airflow is further reduced, thereby helping to further prolong the service life of the suction motor.

[0082] Further, as shown in Figures 2, 4 and 8, the base 310 is provided with an air pressure balancing opening 311 located in the airflow chamber 1022.

[0083] In such structure, the air pressure balancing opening 311 can balance the air pressure between the second chamber and the first chamber, so that wastewater can flow smoothly from the second chamber into the first chamber.

[0084] Specifically, an outer edge of the base 310 is provided with a first sealing member 510 to seal the gap between the base and the outer tube 120. At the same time, a second sealing member 520 is also provided at the inner edge of the base 310 to seal the gap between the inner edge and the inner tube 130. The first sealing member 510 and the second sealing member 520 allow the second chamber and the first chamber to communicate with each other only through the wastewater flow-through port 4201 and the inner tube 130.

[0085] Specifically, as shown in Figures 2, 4 and 8, in some embodiments, the partition bracket 300 further comprises a mounting frame 330 arranged above the base 310. The partition plate 320 connects the base 310 and the mounting frame 330. The mounting frame 330 is arranged between the tank body 100 and the tank cover 200 and is provided with the air flow-through port 331. The air flow-through port 331 connects the airflow chamber 1022 and the air outlet 210.

[0086] In addition, the wastewater tank further comprises a third sealing member 530 arranged between the mounting frame 330 and the tank body so that airflow can flow out only from the air outlet 210.

[0087] Further, as shown in Figures 2, 4 and 8, the partition plate 320 comprises a first plate 321 and a second plate 322 arranged at an angle. The first plate 321 is arranged on the base 310 and extends along the height direction of the wastewater tank. The second plate 322 is located between the air flow-through port 331 and the air outlet end of the inner tube 130, so as to separate the air outlet end of the inner tube 130 from the air flow-through port 331.

[0088] In such structure, the second plate 322 can block the airflow flowing out from the inner tube 130, thereby preventing airflow carrying wastewater and solid waste from directly entering the air outlet 210. Due to the presence of the second plate 322, airflow carrying wastewater and solid waste will hit the second plate 322 after flowing out of the inner tube 130. At this time, wastewater and solid waste will be blocked and fall onto the base 310 under the effect of gravity, thereby achieving the separation from airflow, while airflow passes through the second gap 104 and enters the airflow chamber 1022 before finally flowing out from the air outlet 210.

[0089] Further, as shown in Figures 2, 4 and 8, in some embodiments, the partition plate 320 further comprises an air baffle 323 connecting the first plate 321 and the second plate 322. A lower edge of the air baffle 323 is lower than the air outlet end of the inner tube 130 but higher than the base 310. The air outlet end of the inner tube 130 extends into the space enclosed by the first plate body 321, the second plate body 322, the side wall of the outer tube 120 and the air baffle 323.

[0090] In such structure, the air baffle 323 can further block the airflow which is blown out from the air outlet end of the inner tube 130, so that the airflow flows downward and out from the lower edge of the air baffle 323. Such arrangement can further reduce the amount of wastewater carried in airflow, thereby further prolonging the service life of the suction motor.

[0091] It should also be noted that, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the wastewater tank further comprises a filtering assembly 220 arranged at the air outlet of the tank cover 200 and used to filter airflow to reduce the probability of debris being carried in the airflow, so as to ensure the cleanliness of air blown out from the cleaning device. By way of example, the filtering assembly 220 can be an HEPA filter.

[0092] As shown in Figures 2, 4 and 8, in some embodiments, a level detector is also provided in the first chamber 101. The level detector can detect the level of wastewater in the first chamber 101. When the level exceeds a predetermined position, a signal can be sent to a controller of the cleaning device to stop the suction motor from operating, or a signal can be sent to a user to clean the wastewater tank. Such arrangement can further reduce the risk of damage to the suction motor.

[0093] In another aspect, the present invention provides a cleaning device. An embodiment of the cleaning device comprises: a connecting stick, a cleaning assembly and a wastewater tank 10. The cleaning assembly and the wastewater tank 10 are both connected to the connecting stick and communicate with each other. Since the wastewater tank 10 has the advantage of preventing wastewater backflow, the cleaning device equipped with it also has the advantages of long service life and good user experience.

[0094] Further, in some embodiments, the cleaning assembly and the wastewater tank can be located on the same side of the connecting stick. In this case, the distance between the anti-backflow structure 400 of the wastewater tank and the connecting stick is less than the distance between the center line of the wastewater tank 10 and the connecting stick. That is, the distance between the anti-backflow structure 400 and the connecting stick is less than the distance between the inner tube 130 and the connecting stick. In fact, when the cleaning device is tilted, the cleaning assembly and the wastewater tank both turn to face downward. With such arrangement, the wastewater can gather at the side with the anti-backflow structure 400 and thus flow smoothly into the first chamber 101.

[0095] Alternatively, in other embodiments, the cleaning assembly and the wastewater tank can also be located respectively on two sides of the connecting stick. In this case, the distance between the anti-backflow structure 400 of the wastewater tank and the connecting stick is greater than the distance between the center line of the wastewater tank 10 and the connecting stick. That is, the distance between the anti-backflow structure 400 and the connecting stick is greater than the distance between the inner tube 130 and the connecting stick. When the cleaning device is tilted, the cleaning assembly will face downward while the wastewater tank will face upward. With such arrangement, the wastewater can gather at the side with the anti-backflow structure 400 and thus flow smoothly into the first chamber 101.

[0096] In the description of the present application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "length", "width", "top", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicating orientation or position relationships, are based on the orientation or position relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that a device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be understood as a limitation on the present invention.

[0097] In addition, the terms "first", "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, A feature defined as "first": "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of the features. In the present application, unless otherwise clearly specified and defined, the terms "mount", "fasten", "connect", "fix" and the like should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral whole; it can be a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or being capable of communicating with each other; it can be directly connected, or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium; it can be an internal connection of two elements or an interaction relationship between two elements, unless otherwise clearly defined. For those skilled in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0098] In the present application, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, a first feature being "above" or "below" a second feature can mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or that the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Moreover, a first feature being "above", "on top," or "over" a second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or obliquely above the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is higher in level than the second feature. A first feature being "below", "beneath", or "under" a second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or obliquely below the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is lower in level than the second feature.

[0099] In the description of the present specification, the description with reference to the terms "optionally" and "optional mode of realization" and the like means that the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, illustrative description of the above terms does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described can be combined in any one or more embodiments or examples in a suitable manner. In addition, those skilled in the art can integrate and combine different embodiments or examples described in the present specification and the features of different embodiments or examples, unless they are contradictory.

[0100] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, rather than to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the above embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the above embodiments, or replace some or all of the technical features therein with equivalents. However, these modifications or replacements do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A wastewater tank for cleaning device, characterized in that, it comprises: a tank body assembly and an anti-backflow structure (400); the tank body assembly comprising a tank body (100) and a tank cover (200) movably arranged on the tank body (100), the tank cover (200) and the tank body (100) enclosing an accommodating chamber, the tank body (100) being provided with an air inlet (131), the tank cover (200) being provided with an air outlet (210), the accommodating chamber comprising a first chamber (101) located away from the tank cover (200) and a second chamber (102) located close to the tank cover (200), the second chamber (102) being in communication with both the air inlet (131) and the air outlet (210); the anti-backflow structure (400) comprising a blocking member (420) and a flexible member (410), the blocking member (420) being provided with a wastewater flow-through port (4201) connecting the first chamber (101) and the second chamber (102), the flexible member (410) having a closing position for closing the wastewater flow-through port (4201) and an open position for opening the wastewater flow-through port (4201), at least a part of the flexible member (410) being disengaged from contact with the blocking member (420) when the flexible member (410) is in the open position, so that the first chamber (101) is in communication with the second chamber (102).

2. The wastewater tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, the flexible member (410) is arranged at the side of the wastewater flow-through port (4201) facing the first chamber (101), and a first gap (103) in which the flexible member (410) moves is formed between the blocking member (420) and a chamber wall of the accommodating chamber, the first gap (103) being located in the first chamber.

3. The wastewater tank according to claim 2, characterized in that, when the flexible member (410) is in the open position, one end of the flexible member (410) moves away from the blocking member (420) to connect the second chamber (102) in communication with the first chamber (101); when the flexible member (410) is in the closing position, liquid in the first chamber (101) enters the first gap (103) and presses the flexible member (410), so that the flexible member (410) closes the wastewater flow-through port (4201).

4. The wastewater tank according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, a weak portion (411) is provided at an upper end of the flexible member (410), when the flexible member (410) is in the open position, the weak portion (411) being capable of bending so that a lower end of the flexible member (410) moves away from an outer wall of the blocking member (420).

5. The wastewater tank according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, the flexible member (410) further comprises a plurality of protrusions (412) arranged at intervals on an outer wall of the flexible member (410) and located at a lower end of the flexible member (410), a flow-through slot (413) being formed between two adjacent protrusions (412).

6. The wastewater tank according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, the wastewater tank further comprises a partition bracket (300) arranged in the accommodating chamber and separating the accommodating chamber into the first chamber (101) and the second chamber (102); the tank body (100) comprising an outer tube (120) and an inner tube (130), the outer tube (120) and the tank cover (200) together enclosing the accommodating chamber, the inner tube (130) connecting the interior and the exterior of the accommodating chamber in communication, a first end of the inner tube (130) being arranged opposite to the air outlet (210) and communicating with the exterior of the accommodating chamber, a second end of the inner tube (130) passing through the partition bracket (300) and extending to the second chamber (102).

7. The wastewater tank according to claim 6, characterized in that, the outer tube (120) comprises a first outer tube section (121) and a second outer tube section (122) connected in sequence, the first outer tube section (121) extending toward the tank cover (200), the diameter of at least a part of the second outer tube section (122) being greater than the diameter of the first outer tube section (121), the outer tube (122) further comprising a connecting portion (123) connected the first outer tube section (121) and the second outer tube section (122), the blocking member (420) being connected to or being part of the side wall of the first outer tube section (121).

8. The wastewater tank according to claim 7, characterized in that, an insertion boss (414) is provided at a top part of the flexible member (410), and an insertion hole corresponding to the insertion boss (414) is provided at a bottom part of the connecting portion (123), the insertion boss (414) cooperating with the insertion hole by insertion connection.

9. The wastewater tank according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that, the partition bracket (300) comprises a base (310) and a partition plate (320) arranged on the base (310); the base (310) being arranged between the inner tube (130) and the outer tube (120) to separate the accommodating chamber into the first chamber (101) and the second chamber (102); the partition plate (320) being arranged beside the inner tube (130) and separating the second chamber (102) into a wastewater chamber (1021) and an airflow chamber (1022), a second gap (104) being provided between the partition plate (320) and the outer tube (120) and connecting the wastewater chamber (1021) and the airflow chamber (1022) in communication, the airflow chamber (1022) being in communication with the air outlet (210), the wastewater flow-through port (4201) connecting the wastewater chamber (1021) and the first chamber (101) in communication.

10. The wastewater tank according to claim 9, characterized in that, the base (310) is provided with an air pressure balancing opening (311) connecting the airflow chamber (1022) and the first chamber (101).

11. The wastewater tank according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, the partition bracket (300) further comprises a mounting frame (330) arranged above the base (310), the partition plate (320) connecting the base (310) and the mounting frame (330), the mounting frame (330) being arranged between the tank body (100) and the tank cover (200) and provided with an air flow-through port (331) connecting the airflow chamber (1022) and the air outlet (210).

12. The wastewater tank according to claim 11, characterized in that, the partition plate (320) comprises a first plate (321) and a second plate (322) arranged at an angle, the first plate (321) being arranged on the base (310) and extending along the height direction of the wastewater tank; the second plate body (322) being located between the air flow-through port (331) and the air outlet end of the inner tube (130) to separate the air outlet end of the inner tube (130) from the air flow-through port (331).

13. The wastewater tank according to claim 12, characterized in that, the partition plate (320) further comprises an air baffle (323) connecting the first plate (321) and the second plate (322), a lower edge of the air baffle (323) being lower than the air outlet end of the inner tube (130) but higher than the base (310), the air outlet end of the inner tube (130) extending into a space surrounded by the first plate (321), the second plate (322), the side wall of the outer tube (120) and the air baffle (323).

14. A cleaning device, characterized in that, it comprises a cleaning assembly, a connecting stick and the wastewater tank (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the cleaning assembly and the wastewater tank (10) being both connected to the connecting stick and communicating with each other.

15. The cleaning device according to claim 14, characterized in that the cleaning device and the wastewater tank are located at the same side of the connecting stick, the distance between the anti-backflow structure (400) of the wastewater tank and the connecting stick being smaller than the distance between the center line of the wastewater tank (10) and the connecting stick; or, the cleaning assembly and the wastewater tank are located respectively on two sides of the connecting stick, the distance between the anti-backflow structure (400) of the wastewater tank and the connecting stick being greater than the distance between the center line of the wastewater tank (10) and the connecting stick.

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