Cleaner and cleaner control method

Abstract

Disclosed is a cleaner, including: a cleaning module configured to suck in outside air; a main body configured to provide a suction force to the cleaning module; and a steam assembly configured to spray steam, and after spraying steam is performed through the steam assembly, the cleaning module may stop spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner stops in a position, and continue spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner operates a cleaning operation at a low velocity, or an equal velocity.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cleaner, more particularly, a cleaner which includes a steam assembly and a method for controlling a steaming operation of the cleaner.[Background Art]

[0002] In general, a cleaner refers to an electrical appliance that draws in small garbage or dust by sucking air using electricity and fills a dustbin provided in a product with the garbage or dust. Such a cleaner is generally called a vacuum cleaner.

[0003] The cleaners may be classified into a manual cleaner which is moved directly by a user to perform a cleaning operation, and an automatic cleaner which performs a cleaning operation while autonomously traveling. Depending on the shape of the cleaner, the manual cleaners may be classified into a canister cleaner, an upright cleaner, a handy cleaner, a stick cleaner, and the like.

[0004] The canister cleaners were widely used in the past as household cleaners. However, recently, there is an increasing tendency to use the handy cleaner and the stick cleaner in which a dustbin and a cleaner main body are integrally provided to improve convenience of use.

[0005] In the case of the canister cleaner, a main body and a suction port are connected by a rubber hose or pipe, and in some instances, the canister cleaner may be used in a state in which a brush is fitted into the suction port.

[0006] The handy cleaner (hand vacuum cleaner) has maximized portability and is light in weight. However, because the handy cleaner has a short length, there may be a limitation to a cleaning region. Therefore, the handy cleaner is used to clean a local place such as a desk, a sofa, or an interior of a vehicle.

[0007] A user may use the stick cleaner while standing and thus may perform a cleaning operation without bending his / her waist. Therefore, the stick cleaner is advantageous for the user to clean a wide region while moving in the region. The handy cleaner may be used to clean a narrow space, whereas the stick cleaner may be used to clean a wide space and also used to a high place that the user's hand cannot reach. Recently, modularized stick cleaners are provided, such that types of cleaners are actively changed and used to clean various places.

[0008] Meanwhile, there is a mop rag including a steam machine. The steam machine includes a tank which stores water inside, and is configured to generate steam by evaporating water stored in the tank. The steam mop rag supplies the generated steam to the mop rag to sterilize the mop rag and germs on the floor with the steam at a high temperature.

[0009] As a prior art document, US patent No. 10694914 is cited.

[0010] The prior art document includes a steam machine receiving device and a portable steam machine. The portable steam machine includes a tank, a pump, and a steam generator, and is configured to generate steam from water stored in the tank. The portable steam machine includes an electrical cord, and receives power from an external source through the cord. The portable steam machine may be attached or detached to / from the steam machine receiving device. The portable steam machine may be mounted to the steam machine receiving device and may be used as a rag attached to a rod, or may be used as the portable steam machine alone after detached from the steam machine receiving device.

[0011] The prior art document includes the electrical cord, and power is supplied from the electrical cord. However, the portable handy cleaner is operated to be a wireless device, and when applying the steam machine to the steam machine, a suction motor, and the steam machine both need to be operated with one battery, and thus, there is a problem in that a capacity of the battery is insufficient when operating two modules simultaneously with one battery.

[0012] Further, there are problems in that when providing a separate battery to the detachable steam machine, a center of gravity may be lopsided due to a weight of the battery, and the user cannot easily perform the cleaning operation when the user lifts the steam machine.

[0013] In addition, the prior art document has a characteristic in that the steam machine must be separated and then, water needs to be injected to a separate inlet when supplying water to the tank. When applying the steam machine to the handy cleaner which is portable, the tank needs to be designed smaller so as to facilitate portability, and thus, water needs to be supplied frequently. However, in case of the cleaner according to the prior art document, the steam machine needs to be separated each time.

[0014] There is a problem in that when the user does not turn off a steam function in a state in which the cleaner stops in a position while performing the cleaning operation and tidies up a chair and the like, heat is supplied to a flooring while being placed in a position and the flooring may be damaged, and further, the heat may cause a burn to the skin of the user.

[0015] Moreover, there is a problem in that the steam may be turned off due to misdetection of the stop in a position while performing the cleaning operation at a uniform velocity.[DISCLOSURE][Technical Problem]

[0016] An object of the present disclosure is conceived to solve the above-described problems, and is to prevent damage to the flooring and a burn to the skin of the user by stopping the steaming operation when the cleaner detects stopping in a position.

[0017] Furthermore, another object of the present disclosure is to improve convenience of the user by preventing stop of the steaming operation caused by misdetection of stopping in a position by maintaining the steaming operation when the cleaner performs the cleaning operation at a low velocity, or a uniform velocity.

[0018] Moreover, still another object of the present disclosure is to improve convenience of the user by providing information through a display when detecting stopping in a position.

[0019] In addition, still another object of the present disclosure is to further improve the portability by including a separate battery in the steam machine, which is different from inclusion of the electrical cord of the prior art document.

[0020] In addition, still another object of the present disclosure is to allow the user to easily operate when the tank and the battery are provided to the steam machine at the same time.

[0021] Furthermore, still another object of the present disclosure is to allow the user to quickly perform the cleaning operation with the steam function in a narrow space by separating the steam machine from the main body as necessary.[Technical Solution]

[0022] One embodiment is a cleaner including: a cleaning module configured to suck in outside air; a main body configured to provide a suction force to the cleaning module; and a steam assembly configured to spray steam, and after spraying steam is performed through the steam assembly, the cleaning module may stop spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner stops in a position, and continue spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner operates a cleaning operation at a low velocity, or an equal velocity.

[0023] The cleaning module may include: a first sensing unit configured to measure triaxial acceleration; and a module control unit configured to determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on sensing data received from the first sensing unit.

[0024] The module control unit may calculate forward dynamics data based on the sensing data, and determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on a result obtained by comparing the forward dynamics data and a prestored first refence value.

[0025] The cleaning module May further include: a spin mop having one surface in close contact with a floor surface; and a mop motor configured to provide a rotational force to the spin mop, and the module control unit may determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on motor current data received from the mop motor.

[0026] The module control unit may calculate a motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data, and determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on a result obtained by comparing the motor current dispersion value and a prestored second reference value.

[0027] The cleaning module may further include: a module communication unit configured to receive and transmit data through the main body and a power line, and the module control unit may receive a stop-in-position notice signal to the main body through the module communication unit when it is determined that the cleaner stops in a position.

[0028] The main body may output a stop-in-position notice message through a display unit when receiving a stop-in-position notice signal from the module communication unit.

[0029] The cleaning module may include: a spin mop having one surface in close contact with a floor surface; a mop motor configured to provide a rotational force to the spin mop; and a first sensing unit configured to measure triaxial acceleration; and a module control unit configured to determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on sensing data received from the first sensing unit and motor current data received from the mop motor, and the module control unit may calculate forward dynamics data based on the sensing data, and calculate a motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data.

[0030] The module control unit may determine that the cleaner stops in a position and stop spraying steam when the forward dynamics data is smaller than a prestored first reference value and the motor current dispersion value is smaller than a prestored second reference value.

[0031] Another embodiment is a cleaner, including: a cleaning module configured to suck in outside air; a main body configured to provide a suction force to the cleaning module; and a steam assembly configured to spray steam, and after spraying steam is performed through the steam assembly, the main body may stop spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner stops in a position, and continue spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner operates a cleaning operation at a low velocity, or an equal velocity.

[0032] The main body may include: a second sensing unit configured to measure triaxial acceleration; and a main body control unit configured to determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on sensing data received from the second sensing unit.

[0033] The main body control unit may calculate forward dynamics data based on the sensing data, and determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on a result obtained by comparing the forward dynamics data and a prestored first refence value.

[0034] The cleaning module may include: a spin mop having one surface in close contact with a floor surface; a mop motor configured to provide a rotational force to the spin mop; and a module communication unit configured to receive and transmit data through the main body and a power line, and the main body control unit may determine that the cleaner stops in a position based on motor current data received from the module communication unit.

[0035] The main body control unit may calculate a motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data, and determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on a result obtained by comparing the motor current dispersion value and a prestored second reference value.

[0036] The main body control unit may output a stop-in-position notice message through a display unit when it is determined that the cleaner stops in a position.

[0037] The cleaning module may include: a spin mop having one surface in close contact with a floor surface; a mop motor configured to provide a rotational force to the spin mop; and a module communication unit configured to receive and transmit data through the main body and a power line, and the main body may include: a second sensing unit configured to measure triaxial acceleration; and a main body control unit configured to determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on sensing data received from the second sensing unit and motor current data received from the module communication unit, and the main body control unit may calculate forward dynamics data based on the sensing data, and calculate a motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data.

[0038] The main body control unit may determine that the cleaner stops in a position and stop spraying steam when the forward dynamics data is smaller than a prestored first reference value and the motor current dispersion value is smaller than a prestored second reference value.

[0039] Still another embodiment is a method for controlling a cleaner comprising: a cleaning module configured to suck in outside air; a main body configured to provide a suction force to the cleaning module; and a steam assembly configured to spray steam, including: allowing the cleaning module to collect sensing data from a first sensing unit and collect motor current data from a mop motor; allowing the cleaning module to calculate forward dynamics data based on the sensing data and calculate a motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data; allowing the cleaning module to determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on a result of comparing the forward dynamics data and a prestored first reference value, and the forward dynamics data and a prestored second reference value; and allowing the cleaning module to stop spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner stops in a position.

[0040] The determining whether the cleaner stops in a position may determine that the cleaner stops in a position when the forward dynamics data is smaller than a prestored first reference value and the motor current dispersion value is smaller than a prestored second reference value.

[0041] Still another embodiment is a method for controlling a cleaner including: a cleaning module configured to suck in outside air; a main body configured to provide a suction force to the cleaning module; and a steam assembly configured to spray steam, including: allowing the main body to collect sensing data from a second sensing unit and collect motor current data from the cleaning module; allowing the main body to calculate forward dynamics data based on the sensing data and calculate a motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data; allowing the main body to determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on a result of comparing the forward dynamics data and a prestored first reference value, and the motor current dispersion value and a prestored second reference value; and allowing the main body to stop spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner stops in a position.[Advantageous Effect]

[0042] According to the present disclosure, by making the steaming operation stop when detecting stopping on a position, it is possible to prevent damage to the flooring and the skin burn of the user, and to save the energy.

[0043] In addition, according to the present disclosure, by maintaining the steaming operation during cleaning at a low velocity or a uniform velocity, it is possible to prevent the misdetection of stopping in a position, thereby improving convenience of the user.

[0044] Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, by providing information through the display when detecting stopping in a position, it is possible to improve convenience of the user.

[0045] Moreover, according to the present disclosure, there is an effect that the operation of the cleaner is easy because the overall center of gravity of the cleaner in which the steam assembly is installed is placed at the center of the extension tube, as a steam water tank is disposed on one side and a steam battery is disposed on another side about the extension tube when the steam assembly is mounted in the cleaner.

[0046] In addition, according to the present disclosure, there is an effect that a sufficient operation time can be secured even if the suction motor and the steam assembly are simultaneously operated because a separate battery is provided to the steam assembly, aside from the battery provided in the main body of the cleaner.

[0047] Moreover, according to the present disclosure, there is an effect that the steam assembly can be operated even if the steam assembly is separated from the main body of the cleaner and the portability is maintained, because a separate battery is provided to the steam assembly, aside from the battery provided in the main body of the cleaner.

[0048] Also, according to the present disclosure, there is an effect that the operation of the steam assembly is made easy even if the steam assembly is separated from the main body of the cleaner because the center of gravity is placed at the handle as the handle is disposed between the steam battery and the steam water tank.[Description of Drawings]

[0049] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a front view of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a bottom view of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a steam assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 5 to 8 are conceptual diagrams of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a bottom view of a steam assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a cleaning module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a main body according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 13 and 14 are flowcharts of a method for controlling a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Mode for Invention]

[0050] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] The present disclosure may be variously modified and may have various embodiments, and particular embodiments illustrated in the drawings will be specifically described below. The description of the embodiments is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the particular embodiments, but it should be interpreted that the present disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0052] The terminology used herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. Singular expressions may include plural expressions unless clearly described as different meanings in the context.

[0053] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains. The terms such as those defined in a commonly used dictionary may be interpreted as having meanings consistent with meanings in the context of related technologies and may not be interpreted as ideal or excessively formal meanings unless explicitly defined in the present application.

[0054] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a front view of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a bottom view of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a steam assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 5 to 8 are conceptual diagrams of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a bottom view of a steam assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] The cleaner 100 means a cleaning apparatus operated by the user manually. For example, the cleaner 100 may mean a handy cleaner or a stick cleaner.

[0056] The cleaner 100 may include a main body 110. The main body 110 includes a suction motor 114 inside, which is configured to provide a suction force to the cleaning module 160.

[0057] The main body 110 may be connected to an extension tube 150. The main body 110 may be connected to the cleaning module 160 through the extension tube 150. The main body 110 may generate the suction force by means of the suction motor 114 and provide the suction force to the cleaning module 160 through the extension tube 150. The outside dust may be introduced into the main body 110 through the cleaning module 160 and the extension tube 150.

[0058] The main body 110 forms an external appearance, and stores major constituent elements on an inside thereof. A dustbin 210, a dust separating part, a suction motor 114, and a filter may be provided in the main body 400.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 1, an imaginary center line penetrating a center of the extension tube 150 may be formed. The line is defined as a suction flow path center line a2. Referring to FIG. 2, when viewed from the front, the suction flow path center line a2 extends vertically. However, referring to FIG. 5, when viewed from a side, an angle of the suction flow path center line a2 may vary according to the operation of the user.

[0060] When viewed from the front, the center of gravity of the cleaner 100 may be disposed in the suction flow path center line a2. The suction motor 114 and a main body battery 140 are disposed along the suction flow path center line a2 in the main body 110 of the cleaner. Therefore, the center of gravity of the cleaner 100 may be disposed in the suction flow path center line a2. As described below, the steam water tank 172 and a steam battery 175 of the steam assembly 170 are disposed symmetrically with each other, with the suction flow path center line a2 interposed therebetween. Therefore, the center of gravity of the steam assembly 170 is disposed in the suction flow path center line a2. With this arrangement, the user can easily operate the cleaner 100 because the cleaner is not lopsided.

[0061] The dust separating part (not illustrated) is communicated with the extension tube 150. The dust separating part may separate dust sucked into the inside through the extension tube 150.

[0062] The dust separating part may be communicated with the dustbin 120. In more detail, the dust separating part may be disposed inside the dustbin 120. Therefore, the dust separated in the dust separating part may be collected in the dustbin 120 and the air is discharged outside the dust separating part.

[0063] The dust separating part may be a cyclone configured to separate dust through the cyclonic flow. Therefore, air and dust sucked in through the extension tube 150 may spirally move along an inner circumferential surface of the dust separating part. Therefore, a cyclonic flow based on a center axis of the dust separating part may be generated.

[0064] The suction motor 114 is configured to generate a suction force for suctioning the air.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 1, the suction motor 114 is accommodated in the main body 110. The suction motor 114 generates a suction force by a rotation.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 1, the suction motor 114 is disposed on an upper side of the dustbin 120. With this arrangement, some of dust in the air sucked into the suction motor 114 is collected into the dustbin 120 by the gravity, and thus, there is an effect that a lifespan of the suction motor 114 increases.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 1, the suction motor 114 is disposed downstream of the dustbin 120. With this arrangement, air filtered in the dustbin 120 passes through the suction motor 114. Therefore, there is an effect that the lifespan of the suction motor 114 increases more than that of an arrangement in which the suction motor 114 is disposed upstream of the dustbin 120.

[0068] A filter (not illustrated) is configured to filter foreign substance contained in the flowing air. The filter may include a pre-filter or a HEPA filter.

[0069] The pre-filter is a filter disposed in the uppermost stream among the filters, is formed in a mesh shape, and filters physically big dust primarily. The pre-filter is configured to physically filter dusts bigger than a spacing of the mesh, and is a component which improves a lifespan of other filters.

[0070] The HEPA is the abbreviation for the high efficiency particulate air filter, and the HEPA filter is configured to filter fine dust. Generally, the HEPA filter filters fine dust by an electrtostatic force. The HEPA filter filters fine dust contained in the dust introduced from the dustbin 120, and prevents fine dust from being discharged to the outside the cleaner 100. The HEPA filter is disposed downstream of the pre-filter, and thus, its lifespan is improved.

[0071] The filter may be disposed downstream of the suction motor 114. The filter may be disposed upstream or downstream of the suction motor 114. However, referring to FIG. 1, the filter may be preferably disposed downstream of the suction motor 114, that is, disposed on an upper side of the suction motor 114. This is to make replacement of the filter by the user easier.

[0072] A main body handle 116 may be configured to be gripped by a user. The main body handle 116 may be formed to be similar to a cylindrical shape. Alternatively, the main body handle 116 may be formed in a bent cylindrical shape.

[0073] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, an imaginary handle axis a3 formed by extending a center axis of the main body handle 116 may be formed.

[0074] The handle axis a3 intersects the suction flow path center axis a2. In other words, referring to FIG. 2, the handle axis a3 is disposed in the suction flow path center axis a2. Therefore, when the user grips the main body handle 116, the cleaner 100 is not lopsided and the user may easily operate the cleaner 100.

[0075] The cleaner 100 may include the dustbin 120. The dustbin 120 may be communicated with the dust separating part (not illustrated). The dustbin 120 may store dust separated in the dust separating part.

[0076] An opening portion is formed on a lower surface of the dustbin 120 and some thereof may be opened. The dustbin 120 includes a discharge cover configured to open or close the opened lower surface.

[0077] The discharge cover (not illustrated) is configured to cover the opened lower surface of the dustbin 120. The dustbin 120 may collect dust into the dustbin 120 when the cleaner 100 is operated, and discharge the collected dust by opening the discharge cover only as needed after stopping the operation.

[0078] The discharge cover may be disposed on the lower surface of the dustbin 120. The discharge cover may selectively open or close the lower surface of the dustbin 120 which is opened downward.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 2, the dustbin 120 is disposed in the suction flow path center axis a2.

[0080] The cleaner 100 includes the main body battery 140. The main body battery 140 is configured to supply power to the constituent elements of the cleaner 100 including the suction motor 114.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 1, the main body battery 140 is disposed below the main body handle 116.

[0082] For example, the main body battery 140 may be separably coupled to the cleaner 100. The main body battery 140 may be inserted into the main body in an upward direction to be mounted therein, and may be detached therefrom in a downward direction.

[0083] The main body battery 140 may be disposed at the rear of the dustbin 120. That is, the suction motor 114 and the main body battery 140 are disposed not to overlap in upward and downward directions, and an arrangement height thereof may be different from each other. Based on the main body handle 116, the suction motor 114 which is heavier is disposed in front of the main body handle 116, and the main body battery 140 which is heavier is disposed at the rear of the main body handle 116, thereby the overall weight of the cleaner 100 may be evenly distributed. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent strain on a wrist of the user when the user performs the cleaning operation while holding the main body handle 116.

[0084] Referring to FIG. 1, the cleaner 100 includes the extension tube 150. The extension tube 150 is configured to guide the air sucked by the cleaning module 160 to the main body 110.

[0085] One end of the extension tube 150 is communicated with the cleaning module 160, and another end thereof is communicated with the main body 110. The extension tube 150 may be communicated with the suction part 112 of the main body 110. The extension tube 150 may be formed in a long cylindrical shape.

[0086] The suction flow path center line a2 is formed along a longitudinal direction of the extension tube 150.

[0087] The cleaner 100 includes the cleaning module 160. The cleaning module 160 is configured to suck in the outside air.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 1, the cleaning module 160 is communicated with the extension tube 150. Therefore, the outside air is introduced into the main body 110 of the cleaner 100 by passing through the cleaning module 160 and the extension tube 150 by the suction force generated in the main body 110 of the cleaner 100.

[0089] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the cleaning module 160 includes at least one or more spin mops 161. The spin mop 161 is a wet mop, contains moisture, and is configured to rub the floor to clean the floor up.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 2, each of the spin mops 161 as a pair may be disposed on a left side and a right side of the cleaning module 160.

[0091] The spin mop 161 has a rotational axis disposed perpendicular to the floor, and rubs the floor by rotating about the rotational axis to clean the floor up.

[0092] At this instance, two or more spin mops 161 may rotate in each different direction to facilitate an easy operation by the user. For example, referring to FIG. 2, the right spin mop 161 may rotate in a clockwise direction CW, and the left spin mop 161 may rotate in a counterclockwise direction CCW. Therefore, the spin mops 161 as a pair may push the cleaning module 161 to the front through a frictional force, and the user may make the cleaner 100 move forward more easily.

[0093] The cleaning module 160 includes a main body water tank 162 therein. The main body water tank 162 stores water on the inside thereof, and is configured to supply the water to the spin mop 161.

[0094] Referring to FIG. 8, the main body tank 162 is disposed in the cleaning module 160. The main body tank 162 may be disposed in an upper portion of the left spin mop 161 as illustrated in FIG. 8, or may be disposed in an upper portion of the right spin mop 161.

[0095] The main body tank 162 is disposed in an upper portion of the left spin mop 161 or the right spin mop 161, and supplies water to the spin mop 161 by the gravity.

[0096] The steam assembly 170 is configured to generate steam from water, and clean the floor up, or sterilize the spin mop 161 with the generated steam.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 1, the steam assembly 170 is disposed in the extension tube 150.

[0098] The steam assembly 170 includes a steam water tank 172, a steam generator 173, and a steam battery 175.

[0099] The steam assembly 170 includes a housing 171 forming the external appearance thereof and forming a space therein.

[0100] The housing 171 may be formed as a hexahedron. However, the housing 171 is not limited to the hexahedral shape, and may be formed in another shape within a range that may be easily changed by a person skilled in the art.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 1, a surface of the housing 171 is defined. In the housing 171, a surface on which the steam handle 176 is disposed is a front surface. A surface facing the front surface and on which an extension tube insertion groove 1714 is formed is a rear surface. An open surface into which the steam battery and the steam water tank 172 are inserted in the housing 171 is an upper surface. A surface facing the upper surface and on which a nozzle is disposed is a lower surface. A side surface on a side on which the steam battery 175 is disposed in the housing 171 is a left side surface. A side surface on a side on which the steam water tank 172 is disposed in the housing 171 is a right-side surface.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 1, the housing 171 may be divided into three parts. A battery receiving part 1711 is disposed on a left side in the housing 171, and receives the steam battery 175. A water tank receiving part 1712 is disposed on a right side in the housing 171, and receives the steam water tank 172. A handle installation part 1713 is disposed between the battery receiving part 1711 and the water tank receiving part 1712 and a steam handle 176 is installed therein.

[0103] The handle installation part 1713 may be formed in an arch shape when viewed from the above. With this arrangement, the user may easily hold the steam assembly 170, and may stably spray steam to a subject using the steam assembly 170.

[0104] The housing 171 may be formed of a resin material. Alternatively, the housing 171 may be formed of the same material as a material forming the cleaner 100. However, the material is not necessarily limited thereto, and may be formed of other material within a range that may be easily changed by a person skilled in the art.

[0105] The housing 171 forms an external appearance of the steam assembly 170, and an upper side thereof is opened. At this instance, at least one among the water tank or the battery is inserted into the housing 171 from the upper side.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 1, an upper side of the battery receiving part 1711 may be opened. The steam battery 175 is inserted into and is received in the open upper side. With this arrangement, the user may easily replace the steam battery 175 while the cleaner 100 is operated. That is, when the steam battery 175 is discharged while the cleaner 100 is operated, the steam battery 175 may be separated upward easily with a left hand while holding the main body handle 116 with a right hand. In addition, as the steam battery 175 is inserted into the housing from an upper side downward, there is an effect that the electrical connection between the steam battery 175 and the housing 171 becomes stronger by the own eight of the steam battery 175.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 1, the water tank receiving part 1712 has an upper surface which can be opened. Through the upper surface, the steam water tank 172 may be inserted into and received in the housing. With this arrangement, the user may easily separate the steam water tank 172 easily while the cleaner 100 is operated. That is, when the content of water inside the steam water tank 172 is lacked, it is possible to easily separate the steam water tank 172 with a right hand and inject water thereinto while holding the main body handle 116 with a left hand. In addition, there is an effect that leakage of water between the steam water tank 172 and the housing 171 may be prevented by the own weight because the steam water tank 172 is inserted into the housing from the upper side downward.

[0108] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, on one side of the housing 171, a water level check window 1724 is formed. The water level check window 1724 is formed of a transparent material so that the user can check the inside, and allows to check a remaining amount of water inside the steam water tank 172.

[0109] The steam assembly 170 includes the steam water tank 172. The steam water tank 172 is configured to store water therein.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 1, the steam water tank 172 is mounted in the water tank receiving part 1712. The steam water tank 172 is disposed on one side of the extension tube 150 when the steam assembly 170 is mounted in the extension tube 150.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 1, the steam water tank 172 is disposed on one side of the extension tube 150 when the steam assembly 170 is mounted in the extension tube 150. Referring to FIG. 2, the steam water tank 172 may be disposed on a left side of the extension tube 150 when viewed from the front.

[0112] The steam water tank 172 includes a supply plug 1721. A supply hole from which water is introduced is provided on one side of the steam water tank 172, and the supply plug 1721 is configured to seal the steam water tank 172 by plugging.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 4, the supply plug 1721 is disposed on an inside of the steam water tank 172. In more detail, the water level check window is formed on an outer surface of the steam water tank 172, and the supply plug 1721 is disposed to face the water level check window 1724. With this arrangement, the user may easily supply water to the steam water tank 172, and may accurately determine the water level of the steam water tank when supplying water.

[0114] The steam water tank 172 includes a discharge portion 1722. The discharge portion 1722 is configured to discharge water stored in the steam water tank 172. Referring to FIG. 4, the discharge portion 1722 is disposed in a lower end of the steam water tank 172. That is, water is supplied from the steam water tank 172 to the steam generator 173. The discharge portion 1722 may consist of a plurality of components, and a thread, or a packing.

[0115] The steam water tank 172 includes the water level check window 1724. Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the water level check window 1724 is formed of a transparent material so that the user can check the inside, and allows to check a remaining amount of water inside the steam water tank 172.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 2, the steam water tank 173 is inserted into the housing 171 from the upper side downward. Reversely, when separating the steam water tank 172, the steam water tank 172 is separated upward. With this arrangement, the user may supply water additionally by separating the steam water tank 172 easily while the cleaner 100 is operated. In addition, when coupling the steam water tank 172 to the housing, the steam water tank 172 may be coupled thereto more strongly by its own weight.

[0117] The steam assembly 170 includes the steam generator 173. The steam generator 173 is configured to generate steam from water.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 4, the steam generator 173 is connected to the steam water tank 172. The steam generator 173 is communicated with the discharge portion 1722 of the steam water tank 172, and thus, water discharged from the steam water tank 172 is introduced into the steam generator 173.

[0119] The steam generator 173 generates steam from water. The steam generator 173 may generate steam by heating water as it has a heating element.

[0120] The steam generator 173 is disposed below the steam water tank 172. With this arrangement, water stored in the steam water tank 172 may be introduced into the steam generator 173 by the gravity. Therefore, there is an effect that no component for making water flow is required.

[0121] The steam generator 173 is disposed on an opposite side of the steam battery 175 about the extension tube 150. With this arrangement, even when the steam water tank 172 lacks water, there is an effect that the operation of the cleaner 100 is made easy by disposing the center of gravity of the steam assembly 170 as close as possible to the suction flow path center line.

[0122] The steam assembly 170 includes a pump 174. The pump 174 is configured to press water to make water flow. The pump 174 may press water stored in the water tank to make water flow to the steam generator 173. Alternatively, the pump 174 may press steam to make steam be discharged outside the steam assembly 170.

[0123] The pump 174 may receive power from the steam battery 175. Referring to FIG. 7, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the steam battery 175 and the main body battery 140 may be electrically connected, and thus, the pump 174 may receive power from the main body battery 140 disposed in the main body 110.

[0124] The steam assembly 170 includes the steam battery 175. The steam battery 175 is configured to supply power to the steam generator 173.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 1, the steam battery 175 is mounted in the battery receiving part 1711. The steam battery 175 is disposed on another side of the extension tube 150 when the steam assembly 170 is mounted in the extension tube 150.

[0126] The steam battery 175 supplies power to the steam generator 173. For example, the steam battery 175 may make water flow or steam be sprayed by operating the pump 174. In addition, the steam battery 175 may generate steam by operating the steam generator 173. Furthermore, the steam battery 175 may adjust an amount of water discharged from the steam water tank 172 by supplying power to the discharge portion 1722.

[0127] The steam battery 175 and the main body battery 140 may be swapped. The steam battery 175 is manufactured with the same specification as the main body battery 140, and thus, the cleaner 100 may be operated with the steam battery 175 mounted in the main body 100, and the steam assembly 170 may be operated with the main body battery 140 mounted in the battery receiving part 1711.

[0128] Referring to FIG. 7, the steam battery 175 may be electrically connected to the main body battery 140.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 2, when the steam assembly 170 is mounted, the water tank may be disposed on one side of the extension tube 150, and the steam battery 175 may be disposed on another side of the extension tube 150. Referring to FIG. 2, the water tank is disposed on a left side of the extension tube 150 and the steam battery 175 is disposed on a right side of the extension tube 150. With this arrangement, the center of gravity of the steam assembly 170 is disposed in the suction flow path center line a2, thereby the user may operate the cleaner 100 more easily.

[0130] The effects of the present disclosure is described in more detail as below. Among constituent elements of the steam assembly 170, the steam water tank 172 and the steam battery 175 are the heaviest. Therefore, the center of gravity of the steam assembly 170 is disposed in the suction flow path center line a2 by disposing the steam water tank 172 on one side of the extension tube 150 and steam battery 175 on another side of the extension tube 150 about the extension tube 150. Accordingly, there is an effect that the user can operate the cleaner 100 more easily because a phenomenon in which the cleaner 100 is lopsided by the steam assembly 170 does not occur.

[0131] According to an embodiment, the steam generator 173 is disposed below the steam water tank 172 and is connected to the steam water tank 172. Alternatively, the steam generator 173 may be disposed on an opposite side of the steam battery 175 about the extension tube 150. As water is consumed from the steam water tank 172, a problem in which the center of gravity of the steam assembly 170 is lopsided toward the steam battery 175 may occur. Therefore, the present embodiment makes the center of gravity of the steam assembly 170 be disposed in the suction flow path center line a2 at most by disposing the steam generator 173 on a side of the steam water tank 172.

[0132] According to an embodiment, the pump 174 may be disposed on an opposite side of the steam battery 175 about the extension tube 150. In this case as well, the present embodiment makes the pump 174 be disposed on a side of the steam water tank 172, thereby the center of gravity of the steam assembly 170 is disposed at most in the suction flow path center line a2 even if water in the steam water tank 172 is consumed.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 2, the water tank and the battery are disposed to be symmetrical with each other about the extension tube 150. In more detail, the steam water tank 172 and the battery 175 are disposed to be symmetrical with each other about the extension tube 150.

[0134] With this arrangement, the operation of the cleaner 100 is made convenient by allowing the center of gravity of the steam assembly 170 to be disposed in the suction flow path center line a2 at most. In addition, the steam assembly 170 can be used after being separated from the cleaner 100, and thus, the operation of the steam assembly 170 by the user can be made convenient even when the user carries the steam assembly 170 only.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 2, when viewed from a heading direction of the cleaner 100, the water tank is disposed on the left or right side of the extension tube 150, and the battery is disposed on an opposite side of the water tank based on the extension tube 150. In more detail, the steam water tank 172 is disposed on the left or right side of the extension tube 150, and the steam battery 175 is disposed on an opposite side of the steam water tank 172 based on the extension tube 150.

[0136] With this arrangement, the operation of the cleaner 100 is made convenient by allowing the center of gravity of the steam assembly 170 to be disposed in the suction flow path center line a2 at most. In addition, by the own weight of the steam water tank 172 and the steam battery 175, there is an effect that the steam assembly 170 is not separated easily.

[0137] The above effect will be described in more detail. The steam water tank 172 and the steam battery 175 may be disposed on the left and right sides of the extension tube 150 as illustrated in FIG. 2, or may be disposed on front and rear sides of the extension tube 150 unlike FIG. 2. When the steam water tank 172 and the steam battery 175 are disposed the front and rear sides of the extension tube 150, there is a concern that the steam assembly 170 may be separated from the cleaner 100 as the extension tube 150 is placed at various angles. On contrary, when the steam water tank 172 and the steam battery 175 are disposed on the left and right sides of the extension tube 150, the steam assembly 170 is coupled strongly to an upper surface of the extension tube 150 by the own weight of the steam water tank 172 and the steam battery 175, and thus, it is less likely that the steam assembly 170 is separated from the cleaner 100 even when the extension tube 150 is shaken. Furthermore, when the steam water tank 172 and the steam battery 175 are disposed on the left and right sides of the extension tube 150, there is an effect that cleaning of a lower part such as a gap below a sofa and the like can be made easy because the angles of the extension tube 150 and the floor can be lower than those of the example in which the steam water tank 172 and the steam battery 175 are disposed on the front and rear sides of the extension tube 150.

[0138] Referring to FIG. 2, the steam assembly 170 is disposed at a lower portion than a half of a distance between a lower end and an upper end of the extension tube 150.

[0139] The extension tube 150 may be divided into an upper tube 152 disposed at an upper portion and connected to the suction part 112, and a lower tube 151 disposed at a lower portion and connected to the cleaning module 160. At this instance, when lengths of the upper tube 152 and the lower tube 151 are the same, the steam assembly 170 may be disposed on the lower tube 151.

[0140] With this arrangement, there is an effect that the operation of the cleaner 100 is made convenient by allowing the overall center of gravity of the cleaner 100 to be disposed at a lower portion more.

[0141] The steam assembly 170 includes an extension insertion groove 1714. The extension insertion groove 1714 allows the extension tube 150 to be inserted thereinto and is configured to fix the steam assembly 170 to the cleaner 100.

[0142] The extension insertion groove 1714 is disposed between the water tank and the battery, and is depressed inward. At least a portion of the extension tube 150 is inserted into the extension tube insertion groove 1714. Referring to FIG. 1, the extension tube insertion groove 1714 is disposed between the steam water tank 172 and the steam battery 175.

[0143] The extension tube insertion groove 1714 is depressed inward of the housing 171. In more detail, the extension tube insertion groove 1714 is depressed forward from the rear surface of the housing 171. Therefore, the extension tube 150 is inserted into the steam assembly 170 from the rear to the front of the steam assembly 170.

[0144] Referring to FIG. 5, the cleaning operation is performed while the extension tube 150 being leaned such that the extension tube 150 has a constant angle with the floor surface. Therefore, there is an effect that while the cleaner 100 is operated, the steam assembly 170 is not separated from the cleaner 100 even if the cleaner 100 is slightly shaken because the steam assembly 170 is more strongly coupled to the extension tube 150 by the own weight.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 3, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the extension tube 150 may face and contact the extension tube insertion groove 1714. The extension tube 150 includes a curved portion 151a formed in an arch shape and a plane portion 151b formed at an end of the curved portion and having a shorter cross-sectional distance L2 than a diameter L1 of the curved portion. In addition, the extension tube insertion groove 1714 includes a curved portion 1714a facing an outer surface of the curved portion 151a of the extension tube and a plane portion 1714b facing an outer surface of the plane portion 151b of the extension tube.

[0146] The extension tube may be divided into the curved portion 151a and the plane portion 151b. The curved portion 151a is formed in an arch shape. The curved portion 151a of the extension tube is formed as a pair at the front and rear thereof.

[0147] The plane portion 151b of the extension tube is formed at an end of the curved portion 151a. The plane portion 151b of the extension tube connects an end of the curved portion 151a at the front and an end of the curved portion 151a at the rear to each other.

[0148] Referring to FIG. 3, the curved portion 151a at the front and the curved portion 151a at the rear of the extension tube may form one imaginary circle.

[0149] The extension tube insertion groove may be divided into the curved portion 1714a and the plane portion 1714b. The curved portion 1714a of the extension tube insertion groove is formed in an arch shape and faces an outer surface of the curved portion 151a of the extension tube. The plane portion 1714b of the extension tube insertion groove is formed at an end portion of the curved portion 1714a of the extension tube. The plane portion 1714b of the extension tube insertion groove is disposed on an outer surface of the plane portion 151b of the extension tube, and faces the plane portion 151b of the extension tube.

[0150] The cross-sectional distance L2 of the plane portion is smaller than the diameter L1 of the curved portion of the extension tube. The cross-sectional distance of the plane portion is defined as a shortest distance between the left plane portion 1714b and the right plane portion 1714b. The diameter L1 of the curved portion of the extension tube is defined as a diameter of an imaginary circle formed by the front curved portion 151a and the rear curved portion 151a. The cross-sectional distance L2 of the plane portion is formed smaller than the diameter L1 of the curved portion of the extension tube, therefore, there is an effect that the steam assembly 170 is not rotated separately from the extension tube 150, but is mounted stably thereto.

[0151] Referring to FIG. 9, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the extension tube may be formed in an oval shape. At this instance, the extension tube 150 includes a long axis L3 parallel to a direction in which the extension tube 150 is inserted into the extension tube insertion groove 1714, and a short axis L4 perpendicular to the direction in which the extension tube 150 is inserted into the extension tube insertion groove 1714.

[0152] A front end of the extension tube 150 is supported on the curved portion 1714a of the extension tube insertion groove. A left end and a right end of the extension tube 150 are supported on the plane portion 1714b of the extension tube insertion groove.

[0153] The long axis L3 of the extension tube is defined as the longest diameter of the oval shape, and is a distance between a front end and a rear end. The short axis L4 of the extension tube is defined as the shortest diameter of the oval shape, and is a distance between a left end and a right end.

[0154] The long axis L3 of the extension tube is formed longer than the short axis L4, and thus, there is an effect that the steam assembly 170 is not rotated separately from the extension tube 150, but is mounted stably thereto.

[0155] Referring to FIG. 3 or 9, when the steam assembly 170 is installed in the extension tube 150, the rear end of the steam assembly 170 is disposed at a more rearward position than the rear end of the extension tube 150. With this arrangement, there is an effect that the steam assembly 170 is not separated during the cleaning operation, and is stably mounted to the extension tube 150.

[0156] Referring to FIG. 1, the steam assembly 170 includes the steam handle 176. The steam handle 176 is configured to allow the steam assembly 170 to be separated from the cleaner 100 and carried separately.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 3, the steam handle 176 is disposed between the water tank and the battery. With this arrangement, the steam handle 176 is disposed in the center of gravity of the steam assembly 170. Therefore, when the user holds the steam assembly 170, there is an effect that the steam handle 176 prevents the steam assembly 170 from being lopsided and helps to carry the steam assembly 170 easily.

[0158] Referring to FIG. 4, the steam handle 176 is disposed in the handle installation part 1713. The steam handle 176 has a protrusion so that it can be inserted into a hole of the handle installation part 1713, and protrudes forward (upward in case of FIG. 4) when it is used. Therefore, when using the steam assembly 170, the steam handle 176 protruding forward may be used, and when using the steam assembly 170 to be coupled to the cleaner 100, the steam handle 176 may be inserted into the handle installation part 1713 in a state in which the rear thereof faces a forward direction to be mounted. When inserting the steam handle 176 thereinto in a state in which the rear thereof faces a forward direction, a distance between a front end and a rear end of the steam assembly is shortened, and thus, there is an effect that a small gap such as that under a sofa and the like may be easily cleaned up.

[0159] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the water tank further includes the water level check window 1724 formed on one side surface on one side, and formed of a transparent material. The water level check window 1724 is formed on one side of the housing 171. The water level check window 1724 is formed of a transparent material, and thus, the user may check the inside, and check a remaining amount of water inside the steam water tank 172.

[0160] The water level check window 1724 of the housing 171 and the water level check window 1724 of the steam water tank 172 are disposed to overlap each other. Therefore, the user may check a remaining amount of water inside the steam water tank 172. In addition, when the water level check window 1724 of the housing 171 and the water level check window 1724 of the steam water tank 172 do not overlap each other, it may be determined that the steam water tank 172 is not properly mounted, and therefore, overlap thereof may be used as a means to determine proper coupling of the steam water tank 172.

[0161] Referring to FIG. 5, the steam assembly 170 may further include a nozzle 1723. Therefore, the steam assembly 170 may clean up or sterilize the floor surface by directly spraying steam to the floor surface.

[0162] The nozzle 1723 discharges steam to the outside. The nozzle 1723 is connected to the steam generator 173.

[0163] Referring to FIG. 3, the nozzle 1723 is formed on a bottom surface of the steam assembly 170. Therefore, the nozzle 1723 sprays steam into the bottom.

[0164] Referring to FIG. 5, the nozzle 1723 discharges steam to the rear of the cleaning module 160. The steam is vapor at a high temperature, and when the steam is sprayed into the cleaning module 160 or the extension tube 150, a case formed of a plastic material may be damaged by the heat. Alternatively, when the vapor at a high temperature contacts the skin of the user, it is likely that the user may get a skin burn. Alternatively, when the vapor at a high temperature contacts an object vulnerable to the heat among the objects subjected to steam spraying, the object may be likely to be damaged, and therefore, the spraying angle needs to be fixed. Therefore, there is an effect that the nozzle 1723 discharges steam to the rear of the cleaning module 160 so that the steam cleans the object up again after the spin mop 161 cleans the object up as wet cleaning.

[0165] Referring to FIG. 6, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the steam assembly 170 may further include a steam pipe 1725. The steam pipe 1725 supplies steam to the cleaning module 160.

[0166] One side of the steam pipe 1725 is connected to the steam generator 173, and another side thereof is connected to the cleaning module 160. In more detail, another side of the steam pipe 1725 is connected to the spin mop 161. Therefore, the spin mop 161 may perform high-heat sterilization by the steam.

[0167] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the steam pipe 1725 may be connected to the nozzle 1723. Therefore, when the steam pipe 1725 is connected to the nozzle 1723, the steam pipe 1725 supplies steam to the cleaning module 160, and when the steam pipe 1725 is not connected to the nozzle 1723, the steam may be directly sprayed to the floor.

[0168] Referring to FIG. 7, according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, when the battery disposed in the steam assembly 170 is referred to as the steam battery 175, the main body 110 may include the main body battery 140. At this instance, the steam battery 175 and the main body battery 140 may be electrically connected to each other.

[0169] According to the present embodiment, the suction motor 114 disposed in the main body 110 may be operated by the steam battery 175 disposed in the steam assembly 170 as well, instead of the main body battery 140 disposed in the main body 110. Reversely, the steam assembly 170 may be operated by the main body battery 140 as well, instead of the steam battery 175.

[0170] With this arrangement, by removing remaining power inside the steam battery 175 and the main body battery 140, there is an effect that the cleaning may be continued for a longer period of time.

[0171] Referring to FIG. 8, according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, the steam assembly 170 may further include a water pipe 1726.

[0172] When the water tank disposed in the steam assembly 170 is referred to as the steam water tank 172, the cleaning module 160 may include a main body water tank 162. At this instance, the water pipe 1726 connects the steam water tank 172 and the main body water tank 162 to each other. The water pipe 1726 supplies water inside the steam water tank 172 to the main body water tank 162. With this arrangement, there is an effect that the cleaning operation may be continued for a longer period of time by controlling the amount of water contained in the steam water tank 172 and the main body water tank 162.

[0173] In addition, according to an embodiment in FIG. 8, the spin mop 161 may perform wet cleaning by receiving water from the main body water tank 162, and may perform sterilization cleaning by the steam at a high temperature by receiving steam from the steam pipe 1725.

[0174] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of the cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a block diagram of the cleaning module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a block diagram of the main body according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0175] Referring to FIG. 10, the cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include the main body 110 configured to provide a suction force to the cleaning module 160, the steam assembly 170 configured to spray steam, and the cleaning module 160 configured to suck in the outside air.

[0176] Description on the constituent elements of the main body 110 and the steam assembly 170 is the same as those described referring to FIGS. 1 to 9, and thus, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0177] After the operation of spraying steam is performed through the steam assembly 170, the cleaning module 160 may stop the operation of spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner is stopped in a position, and may maintain the operation of spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner operates the cleaning at a low velocity or a uniform velocity.

[0178] Referring to FIG. 11, the cleaning module 160 may include the spin mop 161, a mop motor 163, a first sensing unit 164, a module communication unit 165, and a module control unit 166.

[0179] The spin mop 161 is a mop to clean the floor up with one surface thereof in close contact with the floor surface, and may be disposed as a pair on the left side and the right side of the bottom surface of the cleaning module 160. The spin mop 161 is the same as those described referring to FIGS. 1 to 9, therefore, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0180] The mop motor 163 is a motor configured to provide a rotational force to the spin mop 161, may be disposed on the left side and the right side of the cleaning motor 160 and may provide the rotational force to the spin mop 161.

[0181] The first sensing unit 164 may be a triaxial acceleration sensor which measures the triaxial acceleration (x, y, z), and may generate sensing data. For example, the sensing data may include the triaxial acceleration sensing data when the forward dynamics (FD) is applied. A direction in which the cleaning module 160 in close contact with the floor surface moves forward in a state in which the user holds the main body handle 116 may be the forward direction.

[0182] The module communication unit 165 may receive and send data through the power line with the main body 110. The module communication unit 165 may receive and send data with the main body 110 through the power line using a universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter (UART) in an amplitude shift keying (ASK) method.

[0183] The module control unit 166 may determine stopping in a position based on the sensing data received from the first sensing unit 164.

[0184] The module control unit 166 may calculate the forward dynamics FD data based on the sensing data and may determine stopping in a position based on a result obtained by comparing the forward dynamics FD data and a prestored first reference value.

[0185] The module control unit 166 may generate the forward dynamics FD data by using a following equation 1 based on the sensing data received from the first sensing unit 164. FD t k = ∑ t i = t k − p t k f ib , x b t i − f ib , x b t k − p

[0186] Here, J ib,x represents an acceleration sensor data of an x axis, and p represents a time gap.

[0187] For example, when the cleaning module 160 is moved forward while operating a cleaning motion and / or a steam motion and is stopped by the user in a position (is maintained in a position), the forward dynamics FD data may represent a value less than 5000.

[0188] For example, when the cleaning module 160 is moved forward at a low velocity (e.g., 10cm / s) while operating a cleaning motion and / or a steam motion, or is stopped in a position and then, is moved forward at a low velocity (e.g., 10cm / s), the forward dynamics FD data may represent a value equal to or more than 5000 to less than 9000.

[0189] For example, when the cleaning module 160 is moved forward at a regular velocity (e.g., exceeding 10cm / s) while operating a cleaning motion and / or a steam motion, or is stopped in a position and then, is moved forward at a regular velocity (e.g., exceeding 10cm / s), the forward dynamics FD data may represent a value equal to or more than 7500 to less than 15000.

[0190] The first reference value is a value which may be set variously according to the setting of the user. For example, the first reference value may be 5000.

[0191] The module control unit 166 may calculate the realtime forward dynamics FD data based on the sensing data generated through the first sensing unit 164 after the cleaning motion and / or the steam motion of the cleaning module 160 is operated.

[0192] After the cleaning motion and / or the steam motion of the cleaning module 160 is operated, when the forward dynamics FD data is smaller than the first reference value, the module control unit 166 may determine that the cleaner is stopped in a position. At this instance, the module control unit 166 may stop the operation of spraying steam by the steam assembly 170. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent damage to the flooring due to the steam.

[0193] The module control unit 166 may determine that the cleaner is stopped in a position based on the motor current data received from the mop motor 163. For example, the motor current data may include left mop motor current data L and right mop motor current data R.

[0194] The module control unit 166 may calculate the motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data. For example, the module control unit 166 may calculate a motor current dispersion value with respect to the left mop motor and a motor current dispersion value with respect to the right mop motor based on the motor current data including left mop motor current data L and right mop motor current data R.

[0195] The module control unit 166 may determine that the cleaner is stopped in a position based on the result obtained by comparing the motor current dispersion value and a prestored second refence value.

[0196] For example, when the cleaning module 160 is moved forward while operating a cleaning motion and / or a steam motion, and is stopped by the user in a position (maintained in a position), the motor current dispersion value may represent a value less than 1500k (1500×10 3< ).

[0197] For example, when the cleaning module 160 is moved forward by the user at a uniform velocity while operating a cleaning motion and / or a steam motion, the motor current dispersion value may represent a value equal to or greater than 2000k(2000×10 3< ) to 7500k(7500×10 3< ).

[0198] The second reference value is a value which may be set variously according to the setting of the user. For example, the second reference value may be 500k (1500×10 3< ).

[0199] After the cleaning motion and / or the steam motion of the cleaning module 160 is operated, the module control unit 166 may calculate the realtime motor dynamics data based on the motor current data received from the mop motor 163.

[0200] After the cleaning motion and / or the steam motion of the cleaning module 160 is operated, the module control unit 166 may determine that the cleaner is stopped in a position when the motor current dispersion value is smaller than the second reference value. At this instance, the module control unit 166 may stop the operation of spraying steam by the steam assembly 170. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent damage to the flooring due to the steam.

[0201] The module control unit 166 may determine that the cleaner is stopped in a position based on the sensing data received from the first sensing unit 164 and the motor current data received from the mop motor 163.

[0202] The module control unit 166 may calculate the forward dynamics FD data based on the sensing data, and may calculate the motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data.

[0203] For example, the module control unit 166 may determine that the cleaner is stopped in a position and may stop the operation of spraying steam when the forward dynamics FD data is smaller than the prestored first reference value, and the motor current dispersion value is smaller than the prestored second reference value.

[0204] The module control unit 166 may determine that the cleaner is stopped in a position when both conditions of which the forward dynamics FD data is smaller than the prestored first reference value and the motor current dispersion value is smaller than the prestored second reference value are met. When the cleaning module 160 is moved at a uniform velocity, it may be determined that the cleaner is stopped in a position because the forward dynamics FD data is calculated to be smaller than the first reference value, however, it is possible to accurately determine whether the cleaner is stopped in a position through comparison of the motor current dispersion value and the second reference value. In addition, when both conditions are met, it is determined that the cleaner is stopped in a position, and thus, it is possible to prevent the operation of spraying steam from being stopped due to misjudgment of stopping in a position when the cleaner 100 operates the cleaning at a low velocity or a uniform velocity.

[0205] The module control unit 166 may determine that the cleaner is not stopped in a position when the forward dynamics FD data is not smaller than the prestored first reference value, and may maintain the operation of spraying steam.

[0206] The module control unit 166 may determine that the cleaner is moved at a low velocity or a uniform velocity, and may maintain the operation of spraying steam when the forward dynamics FD data is smaller than the prestored first reference value and the motor current dispersion value is not smaller than the prestored second reference value.

[0207] The module control unit 166 may send a stop-in-position notice signal to the main body 110 through the module communication unit 165 when it is determined that the cleaner is stopped in a position.

[0208] The main body 110 may output a stop-in-position notice message through a display unit 119 when receiving the stop-in-position notice signal from the module communication unit 165.

[0209] For example, the operation of determining whether the cleaner is stopped in a position through the module control unit 166 may be made possible in the main body 110 as well.

[0210] After the operation of spraying steam is performed through the steam assembly 170, the main body 110 may stop the operation of spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner is stopped in a position, and may maintain the operation of spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner operates cleaning at a low velocity or a uniform velocity.

[0211] Referring to FIG. 12, the main body 110 may include a second sensing unit 115, a main body communication unit 117, a main body control unit 118, and the display unit 119.

[0212] The second sensing unit 115 may be a triaxial acceleration sensor which measures the triaxial acceleration (x, y, z), and may generate sensing data. For example, the sensing data may include the triaxial acceleration sensing data when the forward dynamics (FD) is applied. A direction in which the cleaning module 160 in close contact with the floor surface moves forward in a state in which the user holds the main body handle 116 may be the forward direction.

[0213] The main body communication unit 117 may receive and send data through the power line with the module communication unit 165. The main body communication unit 117 may receive and send data with the main body 110 through the power line using a universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter (UART) in an amplitude shift keying (ASK) method.

[0214] The main body control unit 118 may determine stopping in a position based on the sensing data received from the second sensing unit 115.

[0215] The main body control unit 118 may calculate the forward dynamics FD data based on the sensing data and may determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on a result obtained by comparing the forward dynamics FD data and the prestored first reference value.

[0216] The main body control unit 18 may generate the forward dynamics FD data by using the equation 1 based on the sensing data received from the second sensing unit 115.

[0217] The main body control unit 118 may calculate the realtime forward dynamics FD data based on the sensing data generated through the second sensing unit 115 after the cleaning motion and / or the steam motion of the cleaning module 160 is operated.

[0218] After the cleaning motion and / or the steam motion of the cleaning module 160 is operated, when the forward dynamics FD data is smaller than the first reference value, the main body control unit 118 may determine that the cleaner is stopped in a position. At this instance, the main body control unit 118 may stop the operation of spraying steam by the steam assembly 170. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent damage to the flooring due to the steam.

[0219] The main body control unit 118 may determine that the cleaner is stopped in a position based on the motor current data received from the module communication unit 165. For example, the motor current data may include the left mop motor current data L and the right mop motor current data R.

[0220] The main body control unit 118 may calculate the motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data. For example, the main body control unit 118 may calculate the motor current dispersion value with respect to the left mop motor and the motor current dispersion value with respect to the right mop motor based on the motor current data including left mop motor current data L and right mop motor current data R.

[0221] The main body control unit 118 may determine that the cleaner is stopped in a position based on the result obtained by comparing the motor current dispersion value and the prestored second refence value.

[0222] The main body control unit 118 may calculate the realtime motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data received from the module communication unit 165 after the cleaning motion and / or the steam motion of the cleaning module 160 is operated.

[0223] After the cleaning motion and / or the steam motion of the cleaning module 160 is operated, the main body control unit 118 may determine that the cleaner is stopped in a position when the motor current dispersion value is smaller than the second reference value. At this instance, the module control unit 166 may stop the operation of spraying steam by the steam assembly 170. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent damage to the flooring due to the steam.

[0224] The main body control unit 118 may determine that the cleaner is stopped in a position based on the sensing data received from the second sensing unit 115 and the motor current data received from the module communication unit 165.

[0225] The main body control unit 118 may calculate the forward dynamics FD data based on the sensing data, and may calculate the motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data.

[0226] For example, the main body control unit 118 may determine that the cleaner is stopped in a position and may stop the operation of spraying steam when the forward dynamics FD data is smaller than the prestored first reference value, and the motor current dispersion value is smaller than the prestored second reference value.

[0227] The main body control unit 118 may determine that the cleaner is stopped in a position when both conditions of which the forward dynamics FD data is smaller than the prestored first reference value and the motor current dispersion value is smaller than the prestored second reference value are met. When the cleaning module 160 is moved at a uniform velocity, it may be determined that the cleaner is stopped in a position because the forward dynamics FD data is calculated to be smaller than the first reference value, however, it is possible to accurately determine whether the cleaner is stopped in a position through comparison of the motor current dispersion value and the second reference value. In addition, when both conditions are met, it is determined that the cleaner is stopped in a position, and thus, it is possible to prevent the operation of spraying steam from being stopped due to misjudgment of stopping in a position when the cleaner 100 operates the cleaning at a low velocity or a uniform velocity.

[0228] The main body control unit 118 may determine that the cleaner is not stopped in a position when the forward dynamics FD data is not smaller than the prestored first reference value, and may maintain the operation of spraying steam.

[0229] The main body control unit 118 may determine that the cleaner is moved at a low velocity or a uniform velocity, and may maintain the operation of spraying steam when the forward dynamics FD data is smaller than the prestored first reference value and the motor current dispersion value is not smaller than the prestored second reference value.

[0230] The main body control unit 118 may output a stop-in-position notice message (e.g., "a steam motion is stopped as a stopping motion is detected") through the display unit 119 when it is determined that the cleaner is stopped in a position.

[0231] For example, the display unit 119 may be one among a seven-segment display device, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a thin film transistor-liquid crystal display device, and an organic light-emitting diode (OLED).

[0232] FIGS. 13 and 14 are flowcharts of a method for controlling the cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0233] Referring to FIG. 13, a method for controlling a cleaner including: a cleaning module 160 configured to suck in outside air; a main body 110 configured to provide a suction force to the cleaning module 160; and a steam assembly 170 configured to spray steam includes: allowing the cleaning module 160 to collect sensing data from the first sensing unit 164 and collect motor current data from the mop motor 163 (S110); allowing the cleaning module 160 to calculate forward dynamics data based on the sensing data and calculate the motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data (S120); allowing the cleaning module 160 to determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on a result of comparing the forward dynamics data and the prestored first reference value, and the forward dynamics data and the prestored second reference value (S130); and allowing the cleaning module 160 to stop spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner stops in a position (S140).

[0234] The determining whether the cleaner stops in a position (S130) may determine that the cleaner stops in a position when the forward dynamics data is smaller than the prestored first reference value and the motor current dispersion value is smaller than the prestored second reference value.

[0235] The operations S110 to S140 are the same as the operations of the cleaning module 160 described above, therefore, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0236] Referring to FIG. 14, a method for controlling the cleaner including: the cleaning module 160 configured to suck in outside air; the main body 110 configured to provide a suction force to the cleaning module 160; and a steam assembly 170 configured to spray steam includes: allowing the main body 110 to collect sensing data from the second sensing unit 115 and collect motor current data from the cleaning module 160 (S210); allowing the main body to calculate forward dynamics data based on the sensing data and calculate the motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data (S220); allowing the main body 110 to determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on a result of comparing the forward dynamics data and the prestored first reference value, and the motor current dispersion value and the prestored second reference value (S230); and allowing the main body 110 to stop spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner stops in a position (S240).

[0237] The operations S210 to S240 are the same as the operations of the main body 110 described above, therefore, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0238] As described above, according to the present disclosure, by making the steaming operation stop when detecting stopping in a position, it is possible to prevent damage to the flooring and the skin burn of the user, and to save the energy.

[0239] In addition, according to the present disclosure, by maintaining the steaming operation during cleaning at a low velocity or a uniform velocity, it is possible to prevent the misdetection of stopping in a position, thereby improving convenience of the user.

[0240] Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, by providing information through the display when detecting stopping in a position, it is possible to improve convenience of the user.

[0241] In addition, according to the present disclosure, the steam battery 175 and the steam water tank 172 are disposed to be symmetrical with each other about the extension tube 150. With this arrangement, the center of gravity of the steam assembly 170 is placed in the suction flow path center line. Therefore, there is an effect that the user can easily operate the cleaner 100.

[0242] Moreover, according to the present disclosure, the steam handle 176 is disposed between the steam battery 175 and the steam water tank 172. With this arrangement, there is an effect that the user may easily operate the steam assembly 170 when the steam assembly 170 is separated from the cleaner 100 and used alone because the center of gravity of the steam assembly 170 is disposed in the steam handle 176.

[0243] In addition, according to the present disclosure, the steam assembly 170 may spray steam directly to clean objects up as needed, and may clean objects up by supplying steam to the spin mop 161. Therefore, there is an effect that optimized cleaning can be performed according to kinds of objects subjected to cleaning.

[0244] Also, according to the present disclosure, there is an effect that a time taken in the cleaning operation can be dramatically reduced because the steam battery 175 disposed in the steam assembly 170 and the main body battery 140 disposed in the main body 110 can be swapped, and are electrically connected to each other.

[0245] In addition, according to the present disclosure, there is an effect that a time taken in the cleaning operation can be dramatically reduced because the steam water tank 172 disposed in the steam assembly 170 and the main body water tank 162 disposed in the cleaning module 160 may be connected to each other.

[0246] Although some embodiments have been illustrated and described above, this specification is not limited to the aforementioned specific embodiments, and a person having ordinary skill in the art to which this specification pertains may modify the present disclosure in various ways without departing from the gist of the claims. Such modified embodiments should not be individually interpreted from the technical spirit or prospect of this specification.

Claims

1. A cleaner, comprising: a cleaning module configured to suck in outside air; a main body configured to provide a suction force to the cleaning module; and a steam assembly configured to spray steam, wherein after spraying steam is performed through the steam assembly, the cleaning module stops spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner stops in a position, and continues spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner operates a cleaning operation at a low velocity, or an equal velocity.

2. The cleaner of claim 1, wherein the cleaning module includes: a first sensing unit configured to measure triaxial acceleration; and a module control unit configured to determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on sensing data received from the first sensing unit.

3. The cleaner of claim 2, wherein the module control unit calculates forward dynamics data based on the sensing data, and determines whether the cleaner stops in a position based on a result obtained by comparing the forward dynamics data and a prestored first refence value.

4. The cleaner of claim 3, wherein the cleaning module further includes: a spin mop having one surface in close contact with a floor surface; and a mop motor configured to provide a rotational force to the spin mop, and wherein the module control unit determines whether the cleaner stops in a position based on motor current data received from the mop motor.

5. The cleaner of claim 4, wherein the module control unit calculates a motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data, and determines whether the cleaner stops in a position based on a result obtained by comparing the motor current dispersion value and a prestored second reference value.

6. The cleaner of claim 5, wherein the cleaning module further includes: a module communication unit configured to receive and transmit data to and from the main body through a power line, and wherein the module control unit receives a stop-in-position notice signal to the main body through the module communication unit when it is determined that the cleaner stops in a position.

7. The cleaner of claim 6, wherein the main body outputs a stop-in-position notice message through a display unit when receiving a stop-in-position notice signal from the module communication unit.

8. The cleaner of claim 1, wherein the cleaning module includes: a spin mop having one surface in close contact with a floor surface; a mop motor configured to provide a rotational force to the spin mop; and a first sensing unit configured to measure triaxial acceleration; and a module control unit configured to determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on sensing data received from the first sensing unit and motor current data received from the mop motor, and wherein the module control unit calculates forward dynamics data based on the sensing data, and calculates a motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data.

9. The cleaner of claim 8, wherein the module control unit determines that the cleaner stops in a position and stops spraying steam when the forward dynamics data is smaller than a prestored first reference value and the motor current dispersion value is smaller than a prestored second reference value.

10. A cleaner, comprising: a cleaning module configured to suck in outside air; a main body configured to provide a suction force to the cleaning module; and a steam assembly configured to spray steam, wherein after spraying steam is performed through the steam assembly, the main body stops spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner stops in a position, and continues spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner operates a cleaning operation at a low velocity, or an equal velocity.

11. The cleaner of claim 10, wherein the main body includes: a second sensing unit configured to measure triaxial acceleration; and a main body control unit configured to determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on sensing data received from the second sensing unit.

12. The cleaner of claim 11, wherein the main body control unit calculates forward dynamics data based on the sensing data, and determines whether the cleaner stops in a position based on a result obtained by comparing the forward dynamics data and a prestored first refence value.

13. The cleaner of claim 12, wherein the cleaning module includes: a spin mop having one surface in close contact with a floor surface; a mop motor configured to provide a rotational force to the spin mop; and a module communication unit configured to receive and transmit data to and from the main body through a power line, and wherein the main body control unit determines that the cleaner stops in a position based on motor current data received from the module communication unit.

14. The cleaner of claim 13, wherein the main body control unit calculates a motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data, and determines whether the cleaner stops in a position based on a result obtained by comparing the motor current dispersion value and a prestored second reference value.

15. The cleaner of claim 14, wherein the main body control unit outputs a stop-in-position notice message through a display unit when it is determined that the cleaner stops in a position.

16. The cleaner of claim 10, wherein the cleaning module includes: a spin mop having one surface in close contact with a floor surface; a mop motor configured to provide a rotational force to the spin mop; and a module communication unit configured to receive and transmit data to and from the main body through a power line, wherein the main body includes: a second sensing unit configured to measure triaxial acceleration; and a main body control unit configured to determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on sensing data received from the second sensing unit and motor current data received from the module communication unit, and wherein the main body control unit calculates forward dynamics data based on the sensing data, and calculates a motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data.

17. The cleaner of claim 16, wherein the main body control unit determines that the cleaner stops in a position and stops spraying steam when the forward dynamics data is smaller than a prestored first reference value and the motor current dispersion value is smaller than a prestored second reference value.

18. A method for controlling a cleaner comprising: a cleaning module configured to suck in outside air; a main body configured to provide a suction force to the cleaning module; and a steam assembly configured to spray steam, comprising: allowing the cleaning module to collect sensing data from a first sensing unit and collect motor current data from a mop motor; allowing the cleaning module to calculate forward dynamics data based on the sensing data and calculate a motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data; allowing the cleaning module to determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on a result of comparing the forward dynamics data and a prestored first reference value, and the forward dynamics data and a prestored second reference value; and allowing the cleaning module to stop spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner stops in a position.

19. The cleaner of claim 18, wherein the determining whether the cleaner stops in a position determines that the cleaner stops in a position when the forward dynamics data is smaller than a prestored first reference value and the motor current dispersion value is smaller than a prestored second reference value.

20. A method for controlling a cleaner comprising: a cleaning module configured to suck in outside air; a main body configured to provide a suction force to the cleaning module; and a steam assembly configured to spray steam, comprising: allowing the main body to collect sensing data from a second sensing unit and collect motor current data from the cleaning module; allowing the main body to calculate forward dynamics data based on the sensing data and calculate a motor current dispersion value based on the motor current data; allowing the main body to determine whether the cleaner stops in a position based on a result of comparing the forward dynamics data and a prestored first reference value, and the motor current dispersion value and a prestored second reference value; and allowing the main body to stop spraying steam when it is determined that the cleaner stops in a position.

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