Vacuum cleaner and vacuum cleaner charging stand

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a cleaner and a charging stand of a cleaner, which includes: a charging stand main body to which a cleaner is coupled and including a charging terminal configured to charge a battery of the cleaner; a support connected to the charging standard main body; and a base supported on a floor surface and connected to the support, and when the cleaner is coupled to the charging stand main body, the charging terminal may be inserted into an inside of the cleaner and the power supply terminal may not be exposed outside, and therefore, there is an effect that a user and a product can be protected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cleaner and a charging stand of a cleaner, more particularly, a cleaner including a charging terminal in an extension tube or a nozzle and a charging stand of the cleaner configured to supply power to a terminal provided in the extension tube or the nozzle 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] The modularized cleaners described above may be implemented in a manner of connecting cleaning nozzles in each different type to a main body of the stick cleaner. The cleaning nozzles may largely be divided into a suction nozzle configured to suck in dust on a surface to be cleaned and a wet mop nozzle configured to mop a surface to be cleaned. Here, the suction nozzle according to uses may again be divided into a carpet nozzle, a bedding nozzle, a fluffy nozzle, and the like.

[0009] Lightweightness of a product is an important problem in case of the stick cleaner. This is because the user has to grip the stick cleaner firsthand and perform an operation of pushing and pulling with respect to the surface to be cleaned.

[0010] As a prior art document, Korea Patent No. 1668520 is cited. In the prior art document, a vacuum cleaner including a battery configured to supply power to a suction motor, a battery management device configured to detect a state of the battery, and a controller configured to control an operation of the suction motor is disclosed. The vacuum cleaner of the prior art document further includes a charger separably connected to the cleaner main body and configured to charge the battery.

[0011] At this instance, in the prior art document, a charging line between a battery and a charger connector is separated from a discharging line between the battery and a suction motor.

[0012] According to such a prior art document, a structural restriction exists in the lightweightness of the vacuum cleaner because a path through which the battery is charged and a path through which power is supplied from the battery to the suction motor are configured with circuit lines separated from each other.

[0013] Generally, in the main body of the stick cleaner, an operating part including a power button and one or more input buttons are provided. A suction force of the suction motor mounted in the main body can be adjusted by the input button, thereby it is possible to clean up a surface to be cleaned which requires a great suction force easily.Disclosure / Technical Problem

[0014] An object of the present disclosure is conceived to solve the above-described problems, and is to provide a cleaner and a charging stand of the cleaner capable of making the cleaner and the charging stand of the cleaner be coupled to and decoupled from each other easily.

[0015] Furthermore, another object of the present disclosure is to provide a cleaner and a charging stand of the cleaner capable of protecting the user and the product because a power terminal thereof is not exposed to the outside.

[0016] Moreover, still another object of the present disclosure is to provide a cleaner and a charging stand of the cleaner capable of implementing lightweightness of the cleaner.

[0017] In addition, still another object of the present disclosure is to provide a cleaner and a charging stand of the cleaner capable of reducing a price of a raw material.Technical Solution

[0018] One embodiment is a charging stand, including: a charging stand main body to which a cleaner is coupled and comprising a charging terminal configured to charge a battery of the cleaner; a support connected to the charging standard main body; and a base supported on a floor surface and connected to the support, and the charging terminal may be inserted into an inside of the cleaner when the cleaner is coupled to the charging stand main body.

[0019] At this instance, the charging stand main body may include: a cleaner coupling portion on which the charging terminal is disposed and to which the cleaner is coupled, and the charging terminal may protrude upward in a gravity direction from the cleaner coupling portion.

[0020] Therefore, when the cleaner is coupled to the cleaner coupling portion, the cleaner may descend by the gravity, and the coupling terminal is inserted into an inside of the cleaner, thereby electrically connecting the cleaner and the charging stand.

[0021] In addition, the charging stand main body may include: a coupling guide portion configured to guide coupling of the cleaner.

[0022] At this instance, the coupling guide portion may include: a cleaner receiving wall connected to the support, connected to the cleaner coupling portion, and formed along a direction intersecting an extending direction of the cleaner coupling portion; a pair of side walls protruding and extending from the cleaner receiving wall, disposed on an upper side in a gravity direction of the cleaner coupling portion, and extending along a gravity direction in a shape facing each other; and stoppers protruding and extending in a direction getting closer to each other.

[0023] Therefore, the cleaner may descend from an upper side to a lower side in a gravity direction along the coupling guide portion to be coupled to the cleaner charging stand.

[0024] In addition, when the cleaner is coupled to the cleaner charging stand, movement in forward and rearward directions is limited by the stopper, and thus, the cleaner charging stand may stably support the cleaner.

[0025] Meanwhile, the base may include: a base main body; and a nozzle support protruding from the base main body and in contact with a nozzle of the cleaner.

[0026] Therefore, when the cleaner is coupled to the cleaner charging stand, the base main body may support the ground surface and the nozzle support may support the cleaner nozzle while being in contact with the cleaner nozzle, and the cleaner may not fall down and be supported stably.

[0027] Meanwhile, in the cleaner charging stand according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a smallest distance from a floor surface to the charging terminal may be smaller than a greatest length of a nozzle of the cleaner.

[0028] With this configuration, in a state in which the cleaner is mounted, there is an effect that charging may be performed below the cleaner.

[0029] Meanwhile, another embodiment is a cleaner, including: a cleaner main body comprising a suction motor configured to generate a suction force by which air is sucked in and a battery configured to supply power; a cleaner nozzle configured to clean up a floor surface; and an extension tube detachably coupled to the cleaner nozzle and electrically connected to the cleaner main body and the cleaner nozzle, and the cleaner nozzle or the extension tube may have an arrangement of a connection module connected to a charging terminal of a charging stand so as to charge the battery.

[0030] At this instance, the cleaner according to the present disclosure may further include: a power supply line having at least a portion installed in the extension tube and configured to convey power supplied from the battery to the cleaner nozzle, and the power supply line may be disposed at one point connected to the connection module, and may include a circuit line branched in both directions with one end branched toward the cleaner nozzle and another end branched toward the main body.

[0031] Meanwhile, the cleaner according to the present disclosure may further include: a switching part disposed between the battery and the connection module and configured to be turned on or off; and a control part configured to control charging or discharging of the battery through the switching part.

[0032] At this instance, when the connection module and the charging terminal of the charging stand are connected, the control part may charge the battery by turning on the switching part.

[0033] In addition, when an input of a user command for driving the cleaner nozzle through the operating part is detected, the control part may discharge the battery by turning on the switching part.

[0034] Meanwhile, the connection module may include: a terminal connecting part electrically connected to a charging terminal of the charging stand; and a power supply line connecting part electrically connected to the power supply line, and the power supply line connecting part may include: first and second connections electrically shorted or opened with each other according to whether the charging stand is connected to the charging terminal; and a third connection connected to a positive electrode terminal when the charging stand is connected to the charging terminal.

[0035] At this instance, the power supply line may include a circuit line disposed at a point connected to the third connection and branched in both directions with one end branched toward the cleaner nozzle and another end branched toward the main body.

[0036] At this instance, when the connection module is connected to the charging terminal of the charging stand, the first connection and the second connection may be electrically opened with each other and the battery may be charged.

[0037] Meanwhile, in a state in which the connection module is not connected to the charging terminal of the charging stand, the first connection and the second connection may be electrically shorted with each other, and in a state of the short circuit, when a user command for driving the cleaner nozzle is input through the operating part, the battery may be discharged.Advantageous Effect

[0038] As described above, according to the cleaner and the charging stand of the cleaner according to the present disclosure, there is an effect that the cleaner and the charging stand of the cleaner can be easily coupled to and decoupled from each other because the charging stand of the cleaner is disposed close to a floor surface, and the user may insert the cleaner into the charging stand of the cleaner to be coupled thereto, and may lift the cleaner up from the charging stand to be decoupled therefrom.

[0039] In addition, as the connection module of the cleaner is provided on the inside of the cleaner and a DC plug (jack) of the charging stand of the cleaner is inserted into the inside of the cleaner to be coupled thereto, and the power terminal is not exposed to the outside, there is an effect that the user and the product can be protected.

[0040] Furthermore, there is an effect that lightweightness of the cleaner can be implemented because a charging path and a discharging path are not structurally separated and are integrated into the power supply line.

[0041] There is an effect that the unit cost is reduced compared to a case in which the charging path and the discharging path are separately implemented because the charging function and the discharging function can both be performed in the circuit line in some section of the power supply line.Description of Drawings

[0042] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a cleaner nozzle of an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from a different direction. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a charging stand of a cleaner of an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 5 is a side view of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a side view for describing a state in which a cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is coupled to a charging stand of a cleaner. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 6. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view for describing a state in which a cleaner nozzle according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is coupled to a charging stand of a cleaner. FIG. 9 is a view schematically illustrating a structure to which a power supply line is connected in a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating an embodiment in which a connection module is installed in a cleaner nozzle with respect to FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a view illustrating an embodiment in which a connection module is installed in an extension tube with respect to FIG. 9. FIG. 12 is a view illustrating a flow of a current when a battery is discharged with respect to an embodiment in FIG. 10. FIG. 13 is a view illustrating a flow of a current when a battery is charged with respect to an embodiment in FIG. 10. FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a drive of a cleaner of an embodiment of the disclosure. Mode for Invention

[0043] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0044] 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.

[0045] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from a different direction.

[0046] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the cleaner of an embodiment will be described as below.

[0047] In the present disclosure, it is understood that "a floor surface" means not only a floor surface of a living room or a room, but also, a surface to clean up such as a carpet and the like.

[0048] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a cleaner main body 110 having a suction motor 114 configured to generate a suction force, a cleaner nozzle 160 connected to the cleaner main body 110, and configured to suck in air and debris on a floor surface and clean up the floor surface, and an extension tube 150 connecting the cleaner main body 110 and the cleaner nozzle 160 to each other.

[0049] A structure of the cleaner main body 110 will be described as below.

[0050] Meanwhile, in the embodiment of the present disclosure, directions may be defined on the basis of a state in which a dustbin 120 is placed on a ground surface.

[0051] In this case, a front may mean a direction in which a suction part 112 is disposed based on the suction motor 114, and a rear may mean a direction in which a handle 116 is disposed. Further, on the basis of a state in which the suction part 112 is viewed from the suction motor 114, a right direction may refer to a direction in which a component is disposed at the right, and a left direction may refer to a direction in which a component is disposed at the left. In addition, in the embodiment of the present disclosure, upper and lower sides may be defined along a direction perpendicular to the ground surface on the basis of the state in which the bottom surface (a lower surface) of the dustbin 120 is placed on the ground surface.

[0052] The cleaner 100 may include the cleaner main body 110. The cleaner main body 110 may include a main body housing 111, the suction part 112, a suction motor 114, a handle 116, the dustbin 120, and a battery 140.

[0053] The main body housing 111 may define an external appearance of the cleaner main body 110. The main body housing 111 may provide a space that may accommodate the suction motor 114 and a filter (not shown) therein. The main body housing 111 may be formed in a shape similar to a cylinder.

[0054] The suction part 112 may protrude outward from the main body housing 111. For example, the suction part 112 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an opened inside. The suction part 112 may be coupled to the extension tube 150. The suction part 112 may provide a flow path P1 (hereinafter referred to as 'a suction flow path') through which air containing dust may flow.

[0055] A dust separating part (not illustrated) is communicated with the suction part 112, and is configured to apply a principle of a dust collector using a centrifugal force so as to separate dust sucked into the cleaner main body 110 through the suction part 112. An internal space of the dust separating part (not illustrated) may be communicated with an internal space of the dustbin 120.

[0056] For example, the dust separating part (not illustrated) may include at least one or more cyclone units configured to separate dust through a cyclonic flow. In addition, the internal space of the dust separating part (not illustrated) may be communicated with the suction flow path. Therefore, air and dust sucked in through the suction part 112 may spirally flow along an inner circumferential surface of the dust separating part (not illustrated). Thus, a cyclonic flow may occur in the internal space of the dust separating part (not illustrated).

[0057] The suction motor 114 may generate a suction force for sucking in air. The suction motor 114 may be accommodated in the main body housing 111. The suction motor 114 may generate a suction force by a rotation. For example, the suction motor 114 may be provided in a shape similar to a cylinder.

[0058] The suction motor 114 may be the BLDC (Brushless DC) motor. The BLDC motor is a type of a DC motor without a brush. Since the BLDC motor does not have a brush, which is a wearable part, the BLDC motor not only has an advantage of having little electrical and mechanical noise, but also has no problem in a high-speed rotation, and generates low rotation noise.

[0059] An air discharge cover may be disposed on one side in an axial direction of the main body housing 111. A filter configured to filter air may be accommodated in the air discharge cover. For example, a HEPA filter may be accommodated in the air discharge cover.

[0060] A handle 116 may be configured to be gripped by a user. The handle 116 may be disposed at a rear of the suction motor 114. For example, the handle 116 may be formed to be similar to a cylindrical shape. Alternatively, the handle 116 may be formed in a bent cylindrical shape. The handle 116 may be disposed to form a certain angle with the main body housing 111, or the suction motor 114, or the dust separating part (not illustrated).

[0061] The handle 116 may include a gripping part formed in a cylindrical shape so that the user can grip, a first extension connected to an end on one side in a longitudinal direction (an axial direction) of the gripping part, and a second extension connected to an end on another side in a longitudinal direction (an axial direction) of the gripping part and extending toward the dustbin 120.

[0062] An upper surface of the handle 116 may form some of an external appearance of the cleaner 100.

[0063] The operating part 118 may be disposed on the handle 116. The operating part 118 may be disposed on an inclined surface formed in an upper region of the handle 116. The user may input an instruction to operate or stop the cleaner 100 through the operating part 118.

[0064] 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 (not illustrated).

[0065] The dustbin 120 may include a dustbin main body.

[0066] The dustbin main body may provide a space capable of storing the dust separated by the dust separating part (not shown). For example, the dustbin main body may be formed in a shape similar to a cylindrical shape.

[0067] For example, the dustbin main body may be provided such that a lower surface thereof can be opened. At this instance, a discharge cover is provided on a lower surface of the dustbin main body and may selectively open the lower surface of the dustbin main body.

[0068] Meanwhile, according to an embodiment, the dustbin 120 may further include a dustbin compression lever and a compression member.

[0069] The dustbin compression lever may be disposed outside the dustbin 120 or the dust separating part (not illustrated). The dustbin compression lever may be disposed outside the dustbin 120 or the dust separating part (not illustrated) to be movable in upward and downward directions. The dustbin compression lever may be connected to the compression member. When the dustbin compression lever is moved downward by an external force, the compression member may be moved downward together. Through this configuration, it is possible to provide convenience to the user.

[0070] The compression member may be disposed inside the dustbin main body. The compression member may move in the internal space of the dustbin main body. In more detail, the compression member may move upward and downward in the dustbin main body. With this configuration, the compression member may compress the dust in the dustbin main body downward. With this configuration, it is possible to improve the suction force of the cleaner by preventing the residual dust from remaining in the dustbin 120. Further, it is possible to remove an offensive odor caused by the residual dust by preventing the residual dust from remaining in the dustbin 120.

[0071] The battery 140 may be accommodated in the battery housing. The battery housing may be disposed below the handle 116.

[0072] For example, the battery housing may have a hexahedral shape opened at a lower side thereof. A rear surface of the battery housing may be connected to the handle 116. In this case, the battery housing may include an accommodating portion which is opened downward. With this configuration, the battery 140 may be detached through the accommodating portion of the battery housing.

[0073] As another example, the battery housing may be provided integrally in a state in which the battery 140 is accommodated on an inside thereof.

[0074] The battery 140 is configured to supply power to the cleaner 100. In more detail, the battery 140 may supply power to the suction motor 114, and may supply power to an electronic circuit, an electronic part, and the like inside the cleaner 100 through an electric wire embedded in the cleaner 100. In addition, the battery 140 may supply power to the cleaner nozzle 160.

[0075] When the battery 140 is coupled to the battery housing, a lower surface of the battery 140 may be exposed outside. When placing the cleaner 100 on the ground, the battery 140 may be placed on the ground, and therefore, the battery 140 may be directly separated from the battery housing.

[0076] Meanwhile, when the battery 140 is integrally fixed to the battery housing, a structure for detachment between the battery housing and the battery 140 may be reduced, and thus, the overall size and the weight of the cleaner 100 may be reduced.

[0077] The cleaner 100 may include the extension tube 150. The extension tube 150 is configured to communicate the main body 110 and the cleaner nozzle 160 to each other.

[0078] A lower end of the extension tube 150 may be coupled to the cleaner nozzle 160, and may be communicated with the cleaner nozzle 160.

[0079] The extension tube 150 may be detachably coupled to a connection tube 163 of the cleaner nozzle 160, and a lower end of the extension tube 150 may be communicated with a corrugated tube 166 of the cleaner nozzle 160.

[0080] An upper end of the extension tube 150 may be coupled to the suction part 112 of the main body 110, and may be communicated with the suction part 112.

[0081] The extension tube 150 may be divided into a lower tube and an upper tube. The upper tube may have a length which is varied according to insertion into or withdrawal from the lower tube. The lower tube may be connected to the cleaner nozzle 160, and the upper tube may be connected to the suction part 112 of the main body 110.

[0082] The cleaner 100 may include the cleaner nozzle 160. The cleaner nozzle 160 is configured to clean up a surface to be cleaned. For example, the cleaner nozzle 160 may suck in outside air to clean. As another example, the cleaner nozzle 160 may clean up a floor surface by mopping the floor surface using a pair of rotating mops (not illustrated).

[0083] The cleaner nozzle 160 may be communicated with the extension tube 150. Therefore, the outside air may be introduced into the cleaner main body 110 by passing though the cleaner nozzle 160 and the extension tube 150 by the suction force generated from the cleaner main body 110.

[0084] For example, the cleaner nozzle 160 may include a nozzle housing 161, an agitator 162, the connection tube 163, a nozzle driving part 165, the corrugated tube 166, and a supporting part 167.

[0085] The nozzle housing 161 may form an external appearance of the cleaner nozzle 160, and accommodate parts such as a nozzle motor 165a and the like on the inside.

[0086] An inlet may be formed on a lower surface of the nozzle housing 161. The inlet is a hole for sucking in dust together with air. The inlet may be communicated with the extension tube 150, and guide dust to flow into the cleaner main body 110. In more detail, the inlet may be connected to one side of the corrugated tube 166 and another side of the corrugated tube 166 may be connected to the extension tube 150.

[0087] The agitator 162 is configured to sweep dust attached to the floor surface and guide the dust to the inlet. For example, the agitator 162 is formed in a cylindrical shape which centers on a rotational axis. The rotational axis of the agitator 162 is disposed in left and right directions.

[0088] The agitator 162 is disposed at a front of the inlet. The agitator 162 sweeps dust attached on the floor surface at a front of the inlet. The dust attached to the floor surface may be separated from the floor surface by the agitator 162, and may be more easily sucked into the inlet.

[0089] The cleaner nozzle 160 includes the connection tube 163 coupled to the cleaner main body 110 or the extension tube 150.

[0090] The connection tube 163 may be formed in a tube shape, and an end on one side in the longitudinal direction thereof may be coupled to the nozzle housing 161 and another end on one side in the longitudinal direction thereof may be detachably coupled to the cleaner main body 110 or the extension tube 150.

[0091] The connection tube 163 may be coupled to the nozzle housing 161 in a manner capable of rotating relative to the nozzle housing 161. Therefore, this configuration may provide operational convenience to the user.

[0092] An electric wire may be embedded in the extension tube 163, and the embedded electric wire may be electrically connected to the cleaner main body 110 or the extension tube 150.

[0093] The cleaner nozzle 160 may include the nozzle driving part 165 configured to rotate the agitator 162. The nozzle driving part 165 may include the nozzle motor 165a and at least one gear (not illustrated) configured to convey a rotational force of the nozzle motor 165a to the agitator 152. The nozzle motor 165a may generate a rotational force by receiving power from the battery 140.

[0094] The corrugated tube 166 may be disposed on an inside of the connection tube 163, and a flow path in which air flows may be formed on the inside thereof.

[0095] The corrugated tube 166 may be formed in a shape of a corrugated tube. In addition, the corrugated tube 166 may be formed of a material having elasticity. With this configuration, the corrugated tube 166 may be deformed in interrelation with a rotation of the connection tube 163.

[0096] An internal space of the corrugated tube 166 may be configured such that one side thereof is communicated with the inlet, and another side thereof is communicated with the suction part 112 of the cleaner main body 110 or an internal space of the extension tube 150.

[0097] The supporting part 167 may be disposed on an outer circumferential surface of the connection tube 163, and may support the nozzle housing 161 and the connection tube 163. In more detail, the supporting part 167 may protrude from a rear outer circumferential surface of the connection tube 163. The supporting part 167 may support the nozzle housing 161 and the connection tube 163, as the supporting part 167 is in contact with the floor surface when the cleaner main body 110 is placed on the floor surface.

[0098] Meanwhile, in the present disclosure, the supporting part 167 may be coupled to the charging stand 300 which will be described below.

[0099] The supporting part 167 may include an extension protruding from an outer circumferential surface of the connection tube 163 and a supporting portion bent and protruding from the extension. At this instance, the supporting portion may extend along a direction intersecting an extending direction of the extension.

[0100] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a connection module 600 may be disposed in the supporting part 167. In more detail, the connection module 600 may be provided on an inside of the supporting part 167.

[0101] In a state in which the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, the charging terminal 312 may be inserted into an inside of the supporting part 167, and may be connected to the connection module 600 provided on the inside of the supporting part 167 (refer to FIG. 7).

[0102] Meanwhile, in FIGS. 4 and 5, views for describing the charging stand of the cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated, and in FIGS. 6 and 7, views for describing a state in which the cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is coupled to the charging stand of the cleaner are illustrated.

[0103] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 7, the charging stand 300 of the cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is described as below.

[0104] The charging stand 300 of the cleaner includes a charging stand main body 310, a support 320, and a base 330. At this instance, the base 330 is installed on the ground surface, the support 320 is connected toward an upper side in the gravity direction from the base 330, and the charging stand main body 310 is disposed on an upper side of the support 320.

[0105] To help in understanding the above, directions of the charging stand 300 of the cleaner are defined as below. In a state in which the cleaner 100 is coupled to the charging stand 300 of the cleaner, a direction in which the cleaner 100 is disposed based on the support 320 may be referred to as a front. In addition, a direction opposite the forward direction based on the support 320 may be referred to as a rear.

[0106] In the charging stand main body 310, a charging terminal 312 to which the cleaner 100 is coupled, and configured to charge the battery 140 of the cleaner 100 is provided. In more detail, the cleaner nozzle 160 may be detachably coupled to the charging stand main body 310, and as the connection module 600 of the cleaner 100 and the charging terminal 312 are electrically connected to each other, power may be supplied.

[0107] The charging stand main body 310 may include a cleaner coupling portion 311, the charging terminal 312, and a coupling guide portion 313.

[0108] The cleaner coupling portion 311 includes the charging terminal 312 disposed therein, and allows the cleaner nozzle 160 to be coupled thereto. In more detail, the cleaner coupling portion 311 may allow at least a portion of the cleaner nozzle 160 to be coupled thereto. For example, the cleaner coupling portion 311 may allow the supporting part 167 of the cleaner nozzle 160 and / or the connection module 600 to be coupled thereto.

[0109] For example, the cleaner coupling portion 311 may protrude from a cleaner receiving wall 313a which will be described below toward the forward direction. Therefore, in a state in which the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, the supporting part 167 of the cleaner nozzle 160 may be disposed on an upper side of the cleaner coupling portion 311.

[0110] With such a configuration, even in case in which the extension tube 150 stands up along a direction perpendicular to the ground surface, there is an effect that the overall balance of the cleaner 100 may be maintained as the cleaner coupling portion 311 supports a load of the cleaner nozzle 160 and the cleaner main body 110.

[0111] Although not illustrated, an electric wire may be accommodated on the inside of the cleaner coupling portion 311. Such an electric wire may be connected to the charging terminal 312.

[0112] The charging terminal 312 may be provided in the cleaner charging stand 300, and when the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, the charging terminal 312 may supply power to the cleaner 100.

[0113] The charging terminal 312 may be disposed to protrude upward in the gravity direction from the cleaner coupling portion 311.

[0114] In a state in which the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, the charging terminal 312 may be inserted into an inside of the cleaner 100. For example, in a state in which the cleaner nozzle 160 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, the charging terminal 312 may be inserted into the inside of the cleaner nozzle 160. As another example, the charging terminal 312 may be inserted into the extension tube 150.

[0115] The charging terminal 312 may be inserted into the inside of the cleaner 100 and supply power to the cleaner 100. For example, the charging terminal 312 may be a DC plug.

[0116] Therefore, when the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner coupling portion 311, the cleaner 100 may descend by the gravity, and the cleaner 100 and the coupling terminal 312 may be electrically connected as the coupling terminal 312 is inserted into the inside of the cleaner 100. Alternatively, in a state in which the cleaner 100 is disposed on an upper side of the cleaner coupling portion 311, when the user presses the cleaner 100 downward, the coupling terminal 312 may be inserted into the inside of the cleaner 100 to be electrically connected thereto.

[0117] Meanwhile, the smallest distance from the floor surface to the charging terminal 312 is smaller than the greatest length of the cleaner nozzle 160.

[0118] With this configuration, in a state in which the cleaner 100 is mounted in the cleaner charging stand 300, there is an effect that charging can be performed below the cleaner 100.

[0119] The coupling guide portion 313 may guide coupling of the cleaner 100.

[0120] The coupling guide portion 313 may include a cleaner receiving wall 313a, a side wall 313b, and a stopper 313c. At this instance, the cleaner receiving wall 313a may be connected to the support 320, the side wall 313b may protrude from the cleaner receiving wall 313a, and the stopper 313c may protrude from the side wall 313b.

[0121] The coupling guide portion 313 may be formed in a shape of being connected to the support 320, and may be disposed at a front of the support 320. In addition, the coupling guide portion 313 may be disposed on an upper side in the gravity direction than the cleaner coupling portion 311. At this instance, it is preferable that the coupling guide portion 313 is formed in a shape connected to the cleaner coupling portion 311, but is not limited thereto. When the coupling guide portion 313 and the cleaner coupling portion 311 are formed in a shape connected to each other, an effect of supporting the load of the cleaner 100 may be improved.

[0122] The cleaner receiving wall 313a may mean a surface facing at least a portion of the cleaner 100. The cleaner receiving wall 313a may be a surface formed along a direction intersecting the ground surface. For example, the cleaner receiving wall 313a may be a surface formed along a direction perpendicular to the ground surface.

[0123] The cleaner receiving wall 313a may be connected to the support 320, and may be formed along a direction intersecting an extending direction of the cleaner coupling portion 311. For example, the cleaner receiving wall 313a may mean a surface formed at a front of the support 320. At this instance, the cleaner receiving wall 313a may mean a surface surrounded by the side wall 313b and the cleaner coupling portion 311.

[0124] Therefore, at least a portion of the cleaner 100 may be accommodated in a space surrounded by the cleaner receiving wall 313a, the side wall 313b, and the cleaner coupling portion 311.

[0125] The side wall 313b may protrude and extend from the cleaner receiving wall 313a. For example, the side wall 313b may protrude and extend toward the front from the cleaner receiving wall 313a.

[0126] The side wall 313b may be a pair disposed in a manner of facing each other and extending. For example, the pair of the side walls 313b may extend in parallel to each other along the gravity direction.

[0127] The side wall 313b may be disposed on an upper side of the cleaner coupling portion 311 in the gravity direction. For example, the side wall 313b may extend upward from the cleaner coupling portion 311.

[0128] With this configuration, when the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, at least a portion of the cleaner 100 may be disposed between the pair of side walls 313b.

[0129] The stopper 313c may protrude and extend from the pair of side walls 313b in a direction closer to each other. The stopper 313c may be formed in a direction parallel to the cleaner receiving wall 313a.

[0130] The stopper 313c may be disposed on an upper side of the cleaner coupling portion 311 in the gravity direction. For example, the stopper 313c may extend upward from the cleaner coupling portion 311.

[0131] Therefore, when the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, movement of the cleaner in the forward and rearward directions is limited by the stopper 313c, thereby being able to support the cleaner 100 stably.

[0132] Therefore, the coupling guide portion 313 in general may be formed in a tube shape having a slit formed therein.

[0133] Therefore, the cleaner 100 may be moved downward from an upper side to a lower side in the gravity direction along the coupling guide portion 313 to be coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300.

[0134] The support 320 may be connected to the charging stand main body 310. The stand 320 may be connected to the cleaner receiving wall 313a. For example, the stand 320 may be integrally formed with the charging stand main body.

[0135] The support 320 may connect the charging stand main body 310 and the base 330. The support 320 may be disposed on an upper side of the base 330. The support 320 may extend upward from the base 330.

[0136] The support 320 may be formed along a direction intersecting the ground surface. For example, the support 320 may be formed in a quadrangular column shape. As another example, the support 320 may be formed in a circular column shape. As still another example, the support 320 may be formed in a quadrangular column shape, with an edge thereof formed to have a curved surface.

[0137] Though not illustrated, an electric wire may be accommodated on an inside of the support 320. Such an electric wire may pass through the cleaner coupling portion 311 and be connected to the charging terminal 312.

[0138] The base 330 may be disposed to face the ground surface, and support the support 320 and the charging stand main body 310. The base 330 may be placed on the ground surface to be in contact with the ground surface.

[0139] The base 330 may include a base main body 331 and a nozzle support 332.

[0140] The base main body 331 may be placed on the ground surface to be in contact with the ground surface. The base main body 331 may be formed in a plate shape having a certain thickness. At this instance, a thickness of the base main body 331 may be thinner toward an end of the base main body 331. That is, the thickness may be thicker toward a center thereof. At this instance, the support 320 may be connected to the center of the base main body 331.

[0141] With such a configuration, the base main body 331 may expand a supporting area with respect to the bottom surface while strengthening support force with respect to the support 320.

[0142] The nozzle support 332 may protrude from the base main body 331, and be in contact with the cleaner nozzle 160.

[0143] The nozzle support 332 may protrude upward from an upper surface of the base main body 331. The nozzle support 332 may be disposed at a more front side than a side connected to the support 320 of the base main body 331.

[0144] Therefore, when the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, the base main body 331 supports the ground surface, the nozzle support 332 supports and is in contact with the cleaner nozzle 160, and therefore, the cleaner 100 may not fall down and may be stably supported.

[0145] Meanwhile, FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view for describing a state in which the cleaner nozzle according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is coupled to the charging stand of the cleaner.

[0146] In order to avoid redundant description, because a structure and a function of the present embodiment are identical to those of the cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure except those specifically described in the present embodiment, the same description may be applied.

[0147] In the present embodiment, the connection module 600 is provided in the cleaner nozzle 160 separately from the supporting part 167. For example, the supporting part 167 and the connection module 600 may be disposed on an outer circumferential surface of the connection tube 163. In more detail, the supporting part 167 and the connection module 600 may be provided to protrude from a rear outer circumferential surface of the connection tube 163. Therefore, the supporting part 167 and the connection module 600 may be in contact with the floor surface when the cleaner main body 110 is placed on the floor surface.

[0148] The connection module 600 may be connected closer to the nozzle housing 161 than the supporting part 167. In more detail, the connection module 600 may be disposed closer to the nozzle housing 161 than the supporting part 167 on the connection tube 163.

[0149] Meanwhile, in the present disclosure, the supporting part 167 and the connection module 600 may be coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300.

[0150] In a state in which the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, the supporting part 167 and the connection module 600 may be accommodated in the coupling guide portion 313, and the connection module 600 may be in contact with the cleaner coupling portion 311, and the charging terminal 312 may be inserted into and connected to the connection module 600.

[0151] Hereinafter, referring to FIGS. 9 and drawings thereafter, as an embodiment of the present disclosure, a cleaner into which a battery discharging path connected from the battery 140 to a nozzle motor 235, and a battery charging path connected from an external power supply device 80 to the battery 140 are integrated will be described.

[0152] FIG. 9 is a view schematically illustrating a structure to which a power supply line is connected in a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 9, the cleaner 100 according to the present embodiment further includes a power supply line 500.

[0154] The power supply line 500 means a circuit line connecting the battery 140 and the cleaner nozzle 160 to each other.

[0155] At least a portion of the power supply line 500 may be installed in the extension tube 150 of the cleaner 100. At least a portion of the power supply line 500 may be installed in the cleaner nozzle 160. At least a portion of the power supply line 500 may be installed in the cleaner main body 110.

[0156] The power supply line 500 may extend at a connecting point at which the extension tube 150 and the cleaner nozzle 160 are coupled to each other through connection between connectors. The power supply line 500 may extend through connection between connectors at a connecting point at which the extension tube 150 and the cleaner main body 110 are coupled to each other. As is well known, the above-described connector may be configured in a male and female form in a relationship of engagement. Through this configuration, the power supply line 500 may transfer power supplied by the battery 140 to the cleaner nozzle 160.

[0157] The connection module 600 may be electrically connected to the power supply device 80 existing outside the cleaner 100 through the charging terminal 312.

[0158] Here, the power supply device 80 may be, for example, an electrical outlet. The kinds of the external power supply device 80 are not limited to the above-described example, and all those capable of supplying power to the electric devices and existing outside the cleaner may be included in the external power supply device 80 disclosed in the present disclosure.

[0159] As described above, one side of the connection module 600 may be electrically connected to the external power supply device 80 and another side thereof may be electrically connected to the power supply line 500 inside the cleaner.

[0160] In the present disclosure, the connection module 600 may have a structure in which the entire connection module 600 is inserted into the inside of the cleaner, and the external power supply device 80 may include a male connector, and a corresponding component of the connection module 600 connected to the male connector may be implemented as a female connector.

[0161] That is, the connection module 600 is provided such that the charging power supplied from the external power supply device 80 is transferred to the battery 140 included in the cleaner main body 110 of the cleaner through the power supply line 500. That is, the connection module 600 may electrically connect the external power supply device 80 and the power supply line 500 between the external power supply device 80 and the power supply line 500.

[0162] The connection module 600 may be installed in one selected component among the cleaner nozzle 160 and the extension tube 150.

[0163] Alternatively, the connection module 600 may be provided in plural number and may be installed in the cleaner nozzle 160 and the extension tube 150.

[0164] When the connection module 600 is installed in the extension tube 150, charging of the battery 140 is possible even in a state in which only the extension tube 150 and the cleaner main body 110 are coupled. Therefore, there is an effect that the cleaner nozzle 160 may be separated while the battery 140 is charged so that hygiene management is possible.

[0165] In the meantime, the cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a switching part 193 and a control part 195.

[0166] The switching part 193 is disposed between the battery 140 and the connection module 600 and is configured to be turned on or off. From another point of view, the switching part 193 is disposed between the battery 140 and the cleaner nozzle 160 and is configured to be turned on or off. For example, the switching part 193 may be connected to a positive electrode terminal of the battery 140 (refer to FIG. 10). When the switching part 193 is turned on, the battery 140 and the connection module 600 may become electrically connected to each other. When the switching part 193 is turned off, the battery 140 and the connection module 600 may be electrically disconnected. When the switching part 193 is turned on, the battery 140 and the cleaner nozzle 160 may become electrically connected to each other. When the switching part 193 is turned off, the battery 140 and the cleaner nozzle 160 may be electrically disconnected.

[0167] The control part 195 is configured to control charging or discharging of the battery 140 through the switching part 193.

[0168] When the connection module 600 and the external power supply device 80 are connected, the control part 195 may make the switching part 193 be turned on and charge the battery 140.

[0169] When input of a user command for driving the cleaner nozzle 160 through the operating part 118 of the cleaner main body 110 is detected, the control part 195 may make the switching part 193 be turned on and discharge the battery 140.

[0170] In other words, the basic state of the switching part 193 is off, and according to satisfaction of a certain condition, the switching part 193 may be turned on through control of the control part 195.

[0171] Meanwhile, the control part 195 may include all kinds of devices capable of processing data such as a processor. Here, 'the processor' may mean a data processing device which is embedded in hardware and having a physically structured circuit so as to perform a code included in a program or a function expressed as a command.

[0172] The control part 195 may be mounted in a PCB (not illustrated) installed in the cleaner main body 110. The control part 195 may perform control related to the general drive of the cleaner in addition to turning on or off the switching part 193. For example, the control part 195 may perform control of operations of the suction motor 114.

[0173] The control part 195 may detect a flow of a current and determine whether the connection module 600 and the external power supply device 80 are connected to each other. Detection of a flow of a current may be performed in a measuring part (not illustrated). The control part 195 may determine whether the external power supply device 80 is connected to the connection module 600 through a signal provided from the measuring part. The measuring part may be disposed in a circuit line in which the current desired to be measured flows.

[0174] In more detail, when the external power supply device 80 is connected to the connection module 600, a positive terminal (a third connection 633 which will be described below) of the connection module 600 is electrically connected to the power supply line 500. Through this connection, a current more than a set current flows in the measuring part. When the current more than a set current flows in the measuring part, a signal may be transmitted to the control part 195, and the control part 195 may recognize through the signal received from the measuring part that the external power supply device 80 and the connection module 600 are connected, that is, the external power supply device 80 and the power supply line 500 are electrically connected. By doing so, the control part 195 may turn on the switching part 193, and the battery 140 may be charged.

[0175] On contrary, in a state in which the external power supply device 80 is not connected to the connection module 600, the positive terminal of the connection module 600 is not electrically connected to the power supply line 500. In such a state, a current smaller than the set current (theoretically 0 ampere current) flows in the measuring part. When the current smaller than the set current flows in the measuring part, the signal is not transmitted to the control part 195, and the control part 195 does not control the switching part 193, thereby the switching part 193 maintains the off operation.

[0176] The control part 195 may determine whether the user command for driving the cleaner nozzle 160 is input by receiving the signal transmitted from the operating part 118.

[0177] In more detail, when the user presses a power button of the operating part 118, a signal is transmitted from the operating part 118 to the control part 195, and the control part 195 may recognize that the user wants to drive the cleaner nozzle 160 through the signal received from the operating part 118. With this configuration, the control part 195 may turn on the switching part 193, and the battery 140 may be discharged.

[0178] Hereinafter, referring to FIGS. 10 to 11, an electrical connection structure of the present embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail.

[0179] FIG. 10 is a view illustrating an embodiment in which the connection module is installed in the cleaner nozzle with respect to FIG. 9, and FIG. 11 is a view illustrating an embodiment in which the connection module is installed in the extension tube with respect to FIG. 9.

[0180] FIGS. 10 to 11 have only a difference in a position in which the connection module 600 is installed, and FIG. 10 will be described as a representative embodiment.

[0181] Referring to FIG.10, the power supply line 500 may include the circuit line branched in a Y-shape. The Y-shaped circuit line 510 of the power supply line 500 may be disposed at one point at which the connection module 600 and the power supply line 500 are connected. The Y-shaped circuit line 510 may be connected to the third connection 633 of the connection module 600 which will be described below. Thus, the Y-shaped circuit line 510 may be branched such that the circuit line 510 stretched out from the connection module 600 is branched in two directions, with one end branched toward the cleaner nozzle 160 and another end branched toward the cleaner main body 110.

[0182] In more detail, the Y-shaped circuit line 510 may include a first branch line 510a, a second branch line 510b, and a third branch line 510c. The first branch line 510a is connected to the battery 140. The second branch line 510b is connected to the cleaner nozzle 160. The third branch line 510c is connected to the connection module 600 between the first branch line 510a and the second branch line 510b.

[0183] When the external power supply device 80 and the connection module 600 are connected, a current flows in the third branch line 510c. In this state, when the switching part 193 is turned on, power supplied to the third branch line 510c may charge the battery 140 through the first branch line 510a.

[0184] When the external power supply device 80 and the connection module 600 are disconnected, the current does not flow in the third branch line 510c. In this state, when the switching part 193 is turned on, power is supplied to the cleaner nozzle 160 from the battery 140 through the first branch line 510a and the second branch line 510b, and the battery 140 may be discharged.

[0185] That is, the first branch line 510a becomes a circuit line used for both the charging and the discharging of the battery 140.

[0186] From another point of view, the first branch line 510a is used to overlap the charging path and the discharging path of the battery 140.

[0187] From still another point of view, at least some circuit line of the power supply line 500 may perform both the charging current path of the battery 140 and the discharging current path of the battery 140.

[0188] From still another point of view, the discharging circuit line of the power supply line 500 connected from the battery 140 to the cleaner nozzle 160 is integrated with the charging circuit line for charging the battery 140.

[0189] From still another point of view, at least some circuit line of the power supply line 500 may have a current flow along the charging current path for charging the battery 140 under a first condition, and a current flow along the discharging current path for discharging the battery 140 under a second condition. Here, the charging current path is a current path oriented from the external power supply device 80 to the battery 140. Here, the discharging current path is a current path oriented from the battery 140 to the cleaner nozzle 160. At this instance, the first condition is that there is input of the user command through the operating part 118 performed for the purpose of driving the cleaner nozzle 160. At this instance, the second condition is that the external power supply device 80 is electrically connected to the connection module 600.

[0190] From still another point of view, at least some circuit line of the power supply line 500 may be configured to have different directions of the flow of the current according to satisfaction of the first condition and the second condition. At this instance, the first condition is that there is input of the user command through the operating part 118 performed for the purpose of driving the cleaner nozzle 160. At this instance, the second condition is that the external power supply device 80 is electrically connected to the connection module 600.

[0191] Through this configuration, there is an effect that the cleaner may become lightweighted.

[0192] Further, referring to FIG. 10, the connection module 600 may include an external terminal connecting part 610 exposed to the outside and electrically connected to the external power supply device 80 and a power supply line connecting part 630 electrically connected to the power supply line 500.

[0193] At this instance, the power supply line connecting part 630 may include a first connection 631, a second connection 632, and a third connection 633. At this instance, each connection may be a terminal for electric connection. That is, the power supply line connecting part 630 may be configured with three pins.

[0194] The first connection 631 and the second connection 632 of the power supply line connecting part 630 may be electrically shorted or opened with each other according to connection to the external power supply device 80. The third connection 633 may be a terminal connected to a positive electrode terminal when the connection 600 is connected to the external power supply device 80.

[0195] In more detail, in a state in which the connection module 600 is not connected to the external power supply device 80, that is, when the external power supply device 80 is not connected to the external terminal connecting part 610, the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 may be electrically shorted. At this instance, the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 may be connected to a negative electrode terminal of the battery 140. At the same time, the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 may be ground-connected.

[0196] However, at this instance, in a state in which the switching part 193 is turned off, power is not supplied to the cleaner nozzle 160. In a state in which the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 are electrically shorted with each other, only when the switching part 193 is turned on as a user command for driving the cleaner nozzle 160 is input through the operating part 118, power may be supplied from the battery 140 to the cleaner nozzle 160. That is, the battery 140 may be discharged.

[0197] A state in which the connection module 600 is connected to the external power supply device 80, that is, the external power supply device 80 is connected to the external terminal connecting part 610, the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 may be electrically opened with each other. At this instance, the first connection 631 may be connected to a negative electrode terminal of the external power supply device 80. At the same time, the first connection 631 may be connected to the negative electrode terminal of the battery 140. At the same time, the third connection 633 may be connected to a positive electrode terminal of the external power supply device 80.

[0198] When the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 are electrically opened with each other, as a result, a negative electrode terminal of the external power supply device 80 is connected to the first connection 631 and a positive electrode terminal thereof is connected to the third connection 633. Therefore, the battery 140 may be charged by power supplied from the external power supply device 80. At this instance, as described above, the control part 195 may detect a state in which the external power supply device 80 is connected to the power supply line 500 and may turn on the switching part 193.

[0199] The electric short and opening between the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 may be performed by a mechanical switch (not illustrated) embedded in the connection module 600. A structure having a contact point which is connected usually and in which one line is cut according to insertion of the plug is a structure generally used in a DC jack, and therefore, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0200] FIG. 12 is a view illustrating a flow of a current when the battery is discharged with respect to an embodiment in FIG. 10, and FIG. 13 is a view illustrating a flow of a current when the battery is charged with respect to an embodiment in FIG. 10.

[0201] The flow of the current will be described as below with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13.

[0202] First, referring to FIG. 12, in a state in which the external power supply device 80 is not connected to the cleaner and the external power supply device 80 and the cleaner are disconnected from each other, the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 of the connection module 600 are electrically shorted (closed) from each other, and they serve to perform the same function as that of the conventional power supply line 500. The third branch line 510c connected to the third connection 633 has one side which is opened, and a current does not flow therein.

[0203] Next, referring to FIG. 13, in a state in which the external power supply device 80 is connected to the cleaner, the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 of the connection module 600 are electrically opened with each other (opened), and the discharging path of the power supply line 500 connected from the battery 140 to the cleaner nozzle 160 is cut, and the charging path of the battery 140 is formed. A positive electrode terminal of the external power supply device 80 is connected to one side of the third connection 633, and the third branch line 510c is connected to another side thereof, and thus, the current flows in the third connection 633. That is, a closed circuit is formed between the external power supply device 80 and the battery 140, and therefore, the battery 140 is charged.

[0204] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a drive of the cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0205] Referring to FIG. 14, the flow of a drive of the cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described as below.

[0206] First, whether the external power supply device 80 is connected to the power supply line 500 is determined (S100). The determination may be performed by the control part 195.

[0207] If the external power supply device 80 is connected to the power supply line 500, the discharging path of the power supply line 500 is blocked (S200). The blocking may be performed structurally as the contact point between the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 is released and the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 are electrically opened with each other.

[0208] At this instance, the flow of the current of the charging path for charging the battery 140 is formed (S300). In this operation (S300), turning the switching part 193 on by the control part 195 is included.

[0209] If the external power supply device 80 and the power supply line 500 are disconnected, the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 of the connection module 600 are electrically shorted. At this instance, in a state in which the switching part 193 is turned off, power is not supplied to the cleaner nozzle 160.

[0210] In a state in which the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 are electrically shorted, when a command for driving the nozzle is input from the user (S400), the flow of the current of the discharging path for discharging the battery 140 is formed (S500). Here, the command for driving the nozzle means a user input of pressing the power button of the operating part 118. Here, whether to input the command for driving the nozzle may be determined by the control part 195. In this operation (S500), turning on the switching part 193 by the control part 195 may be included.

[0211] Referring to FIG. 14, description in more detail with respect to the flow of the drive of the cleaner described with reference to FIG. 14 may be substituted with what is described above with reference to FIGS. 9 to 13.

[0212] As described above, according to the present disclosure, as the discharging path and the charging path are not structurally separated and are integrated into the power supply line, there is an effect that the cleaner may become lightweighted.

[0213] In addition, according to the present disclosure, there is an effect that the circuit line in some section of the power supply line may perform both the discharging function and the charging function, and therefore, the unit cost is reduced compared to a case in which the discharging circuit and the charging circuit are provided in a structure in which they are separated.

[0214] The present disclosure has been described in detail with reference to the exemplary embodiments, but the exemplary embodiments are illustrative and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. It is apparent that those skilled in the art may modify or improve the exemplary embodiments within the technical spirit of the present disclosure.

[0215] All of the simple modifications or changes of the disclosure belong to the scope of the present disclosure, and the specific scope of the disclosure may be apparent by the accompanying claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0043]Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0044]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.

[0045]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from a different direction.

[0046]Referring to FIGS. 1 t...

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cleaner and a charging stand of a cleaner, more particularly, a cleaner including a charging terminal in an extension tube or a nozzle and a charging stand of the cleaner configured to supply power to a terminal provided in the extension tube or the nozzle 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] The modularized cleaners described above may be implemented in a manner of connecting cleaning nozzles in each different type to a main body of the stick cleaner. The cleaning nozzles may largely be divided into a suction nozzle configured to suck in dust on a surface to be cleaned and a wet mop nozzle configured to mop a surface to be cleaned. Here, the suction nozzle according to uses may again be divided into a carpet nozzle, a bedding nozzle, a fluffy nozzle, and the like.

[0009] Lightweightness of a product is an important problem in case of the stick cleaner. This is because the user has to grip the stick cleaner firsthand and perform an operation of pushing and pulling with respect to the surface to be cleaned.

[0010] As a prior art document, Korea Patent No. 1668520 is cited. In the prior art document, a vacuum cleaner including a battery configured to supply power to a suction motor, a battery management device configured to detect a state of the battery, and a controller configured to control an operation of the suction motor is disclosed. The vacuum cleaner of the prior art document further includes a charger separably connected to the cleaner main body and configured to charge the battery.

[0011] At this instance, in the prior art document, a charging line between a battery and a charger connector is separated from a discharging line between the battery and a suction motor.

[0012] According to such a prior art document, a structural restriction exists in the lightweightness of the vacuum cleaner because a path through which the battery is charged and a path through which power is supplied from the battery to the suction motor are configured with circuit lines separated from each other.

[0013] Generally, in the main body of the stick cleaner, an operating part including a power button and one or more input buttons are provided. A suction force of the suction motor mounted in the main body can be adjusted by the input button, thereby it is possible to clean up a surface to be cleaned which requires a great suction force easily.Disclosure / Technical Problem

[0014] An object of the present disclosure is conceived to solve the above-described problems, and is to provide a cleaner and a charging stand of the cleaner capable of making the cleaner and the charging stand of the cleaner be coupled to and decoupled from each other easily.

[0015] Furthermore, another object of the present disclosure is to provide a cleaner and a charging stand of the cleaner capable of protecting the user and the product because a power terminal thereof is not exposed to the outside.

[0016] Moreover, still another object of the present disclosure is to provide a cleaner and a charging stand of the cleaner capable of implementing lightweightness of the cleaner.

[0017] In addition, still another object of the present disclosure is to provide a cleaner and a charging stand of the cleaner capable of reducing a price of a raw material.Technical Solution

[0018] One embodiment is a charging stand, including: a charging stand main body to which a cleaner is coupled and comprising a charging terminal configured to charge a battery of the cleaner; a support connected to the charging standard main body; and a base supported on a floor surface and connected to the support, and the charging terminal may be inserted into an inside of the cleaner when the cleaner is coupled to the charging stand main body.

[0019] At this instance, the charging stand main body may include: a cleaner coupling portion on which the charging terminal is disposed and to which the cleaner is coupled, and the charging terminal may protrude upward in a gravity direction from the cleaner coupling portion.

[0020] Therefore, when the cleaner is coupled to the cleaner coupling portion, the cleaner may descend by the gravity, and the coupling terminal is inserted into an inside of the cleaner, thereby electrically connecting the cleaner and the charging stand.

[0021] In addition, the charging stand main body may include: a coupling guide portion configured to guide coupling of the cleaner.

[0022] At this instance, the coupling guide portion may include: a cleaner receiving wall connected to the support, connected to the cleaner coupling portion, and formed along a direction intersecting an extending direction of the cleaner coupling portion; a pair of side walls protruding and extending from the cleaner receiving wall, disposed on an upper side in a gravity direction of the cleaner coupling portion, and extending along a gravity direction in a shape facing each other; and stoppers protruding and extending in a direction getting closer to each other.

[0023] Therefore, the cleaner may descend from an upper side to a lower side in a gravity direction along the coupling guide portion to be coupled to the cleaner charging stand.

[0024] In addition, when the cleaner is coupled to the cleaner charging stand, movement in forward and rearward directions is limited by the stopper, and thus, the cleaner charging stand may stably support the cleaner.

[0025] Meanwhile, the base may include: a base main body; and a nozzle support protruding from the base main body and in contact with a nozzle of the cleaner.

[0026] Therefore, when the cleaner is coupled to the cleaner charging stand, the base main body may support the ground surface and the nozzle support may support the cleaner nozzle while being in contact with the cleaner nozzle, and the cleaner may not fall down and be supported stably.

[0027] Meanwhile, in the cleaner charging stand according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a smallest distance from a floor surface to the charging terminal may be smaller than a greatest length of a nozzle of the cleaner.

[0028] With this configuration, in a state in which the cleaner is mounted, there is an effect that charging may be performed below the cleaner.

[0029] Meanwhile, another embodiment is a cleaner, including: a cleaner main body comprising a suction motor configured to generate a suction force by which air is sucked in and a battery configured to supply power; a cleaner nozzle configured to clean up a floor surface; and an extension tube detachably coupled to the cleaner nozzle and electrically connected to the cleaner main body and the cleaner nozzle, and the cleaner nozzle or the extension tube may have an arrangement of a connection module connected to a charging terminal of a charging stand so as to charge the battery.

[0030] At this instance, the cleaner according to the present disclosure may further include: a power supply line having at least a portion installed in the extension tube and configured to convey power supplied from the battery to the cleaner nozzle, and the power supply line may be disposed at one point connected to the connection module, and may include a circuit line branched in both directions with one end branched toward the cleaner nozzle and another end branched toward the main body.

[0031] Meanwhile, the cleaner according to the present disclosure may further include: a switching part disposed between the battery and the connection module and configured to be turned on or off; and a control part configured to control charging or discharging of the battery through the switching part.

[0032] At this instance, when the connection module and the charging terminal of the charging stand are connected, the control part may charge the battery by turning on the switching part.

[0033] In addition, when an input of a user command for driving the cleaner nozzle through the operating part is detected, the control part may discharge the battery by turning on the switching part.

[0034] Meanwhile, the connection module may include: a terminal connecting part electrically connected to a charging terminal of the charging stand; and a power supply line connecting part electrically connected to the power supply line, and the power supply line connecting part may include: first and second connections electrically shorted or opened with each other according to whether the charging stand is connected to the charging terminal; and a third connection connected to a positive electrode terminal when the charging stand is connected to the charging terminal.

[0035] At this instance, the power supply line may include a circuit line disposed at a point connected to the third connection and branched in both directions with one end branched toward the cleaner nozzle and another end branched toward the main body.

[0036] At this instance, when the connection module is connected to the charging terminal of the charging stand, the first connection and the second connection may be electrically opened with each other and the battery may be charged.

[0037] Meanwhile, in a state in which the connection module is not connected to the charging terminal of the charging stand, the first connection and the second connection may be electrically shorted with each other, and in a state of the short circuit, when a user command for driving the cleaner nozzle is input through the operating part, the battery may be discharged.Advantageous Effect

[0038] As described above, according to the cleaner and the charging stand of the cleaner according to the present disclosure, there is an effect that the cleaner and the charging stand of the cleaner can be easily coupled to and decoupled from each other because the charging stand of the cleaner is disposed close to a floor surface, and the user may insert the cleaner into the charging stand of the cleaner to be coupled thereto, and may lift the cleaner up from the charging stand to be decoupled therefrom.

[0039] In addition, as the connection module of the cleaner is provided on the inside of the cleaner and a DC plug (jack) of the charging stand of the cleaner is inserted into the inside of the cleaner to be coupled thereto, and the power terminal is not exposed to the outside, there is an effect that the user and the product can be protected.

[0040] Furthermore, there is an effect that lightweightness of the cleaner can be implemented because a charging path and a discharging path are not structurally separated and are integrated into the power supply line.

[0041] There is an effect that the unit cost is reduced compared to a case in which the charging path and the discharging path are separately implemented because the charging function and the discharging function can both be performed in the circuit line in some section of the power supply line.Description of Drawings

[0042] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a cleaner nozzle of an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from a different direction. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a charging stand of a cleaner of an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 5 is a side view of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a side view for describing a state in which a cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is coupled to a charging stand of a cleaner. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 6. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view for describing a state in which a cleaner nozzle according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is coupled to a charging stand of a cleaner. FIG. 9 is a view schematically illustrating a structure to which a power supply line is connected in a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating an embodiment in which a connection module is installed in a cleaner nozzle with respect to FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a view illustrating an embodiment in which a connection module is installed in an extension tube with respect to FIG. 9. FIG. 12 is a view illustrating a flow of a current when a battery is discharged with respect to an embodiment in FIG. 10. FIG. 13 is a view illustrating a flow of a current when a battery is charged with respect to an embodiment in FIG. 10. FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a drive of a cleaner of an embodiment of the disclosure. Mode for Invention

[0043] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0044] 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.

[0045] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from a different direction.

[0046] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the cleaner of an embodiment will be described as below.

[0047] In the present disclosure, it is understood that "a floor surface" means not only a floor surface of a living room or a room, but also, a surface to clean up such as a carpet and the like.

[0048] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a cleaner main body 110 having a suction motor 114 configured to generate a suction force, a cleaner nozzle 160 connected to the cleaner main body 110, and configured to suck in air and debris on a floor surface and clean up the floor surface, and an extension tube 150 connecting the cleaner main body 110 and the cleaner nozzle 160 to each other.

[0049] A structure of the cleaner main body 110 will be described as below.

[0050] Meanwhile, in the embodiment of the present disclosure, directions may be defined on the basis of a state in which a dustbin 120 is placed on a ground surface.

[0051] In this case, a front may mean a direction in which a suction part 112 is disposed based on the suction motor 114, and a rear may mean a direction in which a handle 116 is disposed. Further, on the basis of a state in which the suction part 112 is viewed from the suction motor 114, a right direction may refer to a direction in which a component is disposed at the right, and a left direction may refer to a direction in which a component is disposed at the left. In addition, in the embodiment of the present disclosure, upper and lower sides may be defined along a direction perpendicular to the ground surface on the basis of the state in which the bottom surface (a lower surface) of the dustbin 120 is placed on the ground surface.

[0052] The cleaner 100 may include the cleaner main body 110. The cleaner main body 110 may include a main body housing 111, the suction part 112, a suction motor 114, a handle 116, the dustbin 120, and a battery 140.

[0053] The main body housing 111 may define an external appearance of the cleaner main body 110. The main body housing 111 may provide a space that may accommodate the suction motor 114 and a filter (not shown) therein. The main body housing 111 may be formed in a shape similar to a cylinder.

[0054] The suction part 112 may protrude outward from the main body housing 111. For example, the suction part 112 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an opened inside. The suction part 112 may be coupled to the extension tube 150. The suction part 112 may provide a flow path P1 (hereinafter referred to as 'a suction flow path') through which air containing dust may flow.

[0055] A dust separating part (not illustrated) is communicated with the suction part 112, and is configured to apply a principle of a dust collector using a centrifugal force so as to separate dust sucked into the cleaner main body 110 through the suction part 112. An internal space of the dust separating part (not illustrated) may be communicated with an internal space of the dustbin 120.

[0056] For example, the dust separating part (not illustrated) may include at least one or more cyclone units configured to separate dust through a cyclonic flow. In addition, the internal space of the dust separating part (not illustrated) may be communicated with the suction flow path. Therefore, air and dust sucked in through the suction part 112 may spirally flow along an inner circumferential surface of the dust separating part (not illustrated). Thus, a cyclonic flow may occur in the internal space of the dust separating part (not illustrated).

[0057] The suction motor 114 may generate a suction force for sucking in air. The suction motor 114 may be accommodated in the main body housing 111. The suction motor 114 may generate a suction force by a rotation. For example, the suction motor 114 may be provided in a shape similar to a cylinder.

[0058] The suction motor 114 may be the BLDC (Brushless DC) motor. The BLDC motor is a type of a DC motor without a brush. Since the BLDC motor does not have a brush, which is a wearable part, the BLDC motor not only has an advantage of having little electrical and mechanical noise, but also has no problem in a high-speed rotation, and generates low rotation noise.

[0059] An air discharge cover may be disposed on one side in an axial direction of the main body housing 111. A filter configured to filter air may be accommodated in the air discharge cover. For example, a HEPA filter may be accommodated in the air discharge cover.

[0060] A handle 116 may be configured to be gripped by a user. The handle 116 may be disposed at a rear of the suction motor 114. For example, the handle 116 may be formed to be similar to a cylindrical shape. Alternatively, the handle 116 may be formed in a bent cylindrical shape. The handle 116 may be disposed to form a certain angle with the main body housing 111, or the suction motor 114, or the dust separating part (not illustrated).

[0061] The handle 116 may include a gripping part formed in a cylindrical shape so that the user can grip, a first extension connected to an end on one side in a longitudinal direction (an axial direction) of the gripping part, and a second extension connected to an end on another side in a longitudinal direction (an axial direction) of the gripping part and extending toward the dustbin 120.

[0062] An upper surface of the handle 116 may form some of an external appearance of the cleaner 100.

[0063] The operating part 118 may be disposed on the handle 116. The operating part 118 may be disposed on an inclined surface formed in an upper region of the handle 116. The user may input an instruction to operate or stop the cleaner 100 through the operating part 118.

[0064] 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 (not illustrated).

[0065] The dustbin 120 may include a dustbin main body.

[0066] The dustbin main body may provide a space capable of storing the dust separated by the dust separating part (not shown). For example, the dustbin main body may be formed in a shape similar to a cylindrical shape.

[0067] For example, the dustbin main body may be provided such that a lower surface thereof can be opened. At this instance, a discharge cover is provided on a lower surface of the dustbin main body and may selectively open the lower surface of the dustbin main body.

[0068] Meanwhile, according to an embodiment, the dustbin 120 may further include a dustbin compression lever and a compression member.

[0069] The dustbin compression lever may be disposed outside the dustbin 120 or the dust separating part (not illustrated). The dustbin compression lever may be disposed outside the dustbin 120 or the dust separating part (not illustrated) to be movable in upward and downward directions. The dustbin compression lever may be connected to the compression member. When the dustbin compression lever is moved downward by an external force, the compression member may be moved downward together. Through this configuration, it is possible to provide convenience to the user.

[0070] The compression member may be disposed inside the dustbin main body. The compression member may move in the internal space of the dustbin main body. In more detail, the compression member may move upward and downward in the dustbin main body. With this configuration, the compression member may compress the dust in the dustbin main body downward. With this configuration, it is possible to improve the suction force of the cleaner by preventing the residual dust from remaining in the dustbin 120. Further, it is possible to remove an offensive odor caused by the residual dust by preventing the residual dust from remaining in the dustbin 120.

[0071] The battery 140 may be accommodated in the battery housing. The battery housing may be disposed below the handle 116.

[0072] For example, the battery housing may have a hexahedral shape opened at a lower side thereof. A rear surface of the battery housing may be connected to the handle 116. In this case, the battery housing may include an accommodating portion which is opened downward. With this configuration, the battery 140 may be detached through the accommodating portion of the battery housing.

[0073] As another example, the battery housing may be provided integrally in a state in which the battery 140 is accommodated on an inside thereof.

[0074] The battery 140 is configured to supply power to the cleaner 100. In more detail, the battery 140 may supply power to the suction motor 114, and may supply power to an electronic circuit, an electronic part, and the like inside the cleaner 100 through an electric wire embedded in the cleaner 100. In addition, the battery 140 may supply power to the cleaner nozzle 160.

[0075] When the battery 140 is coupled to the battery housing, a lower surface of the battery 140 may be exposed outside. When placing the cleaner 100 on the ground, the battery 140 may be placed on the ground, and therefore, the battery 140 may be directly separated from the battery housing.

[0076] Meanwhile, when the battery 140 is integrally fixed to the battery housing, a structure for detachment between the battery housing and the battery 140 may be reduced, and thus, the overall size and the weight of the cleaner 100 may be reduced.

[0077] The cleaner 100 may include the extension tube 150. The extension tube 150 is configured to communicate the main body 110 and the cleaner nozzle 160 to each other.

[0078] A lower end of the extension tube 150 may be coupled to the cleaner nozzle 160, and may be communicated with the cleaner nozzle 160.

[0079] The extension tube 150 may be detachably coupled to a connection tube 163 of the cleaner nozzle 160, and a lower end of the extension tube 150 may be communicated with a corrugated tube 166 of the cleaner nozzle 160.

[0080] An upper end of the extension tube 150 may be coupled to the suction part 112 of the main body 110, and may be communicated with the suction part 112.

[0081] The extension tube 150 may be divided into a lower tube and an upper tube. The upper tube may have a length which is varied according to insertion into or withdrawal from the lower tube. The lower tube may be connected to the cleaner nozzle 160, and the upper tube may be connected to the suction part 112 of the main body 110.

[0082] The cleaner 100 may include the cleaner nozzle 160. The cleaner nozzle 160 is configured to clean up a surface to be cleaned. For example, the cleaner nozzle 160 may suck in outside air to clean. As another example, the cleaner nozzle 160 may clean up a floor surface by mopping the floor surface using a pair of rotating mops (not illustrated).

[0083] The cleaner nozzle 160 may be communicated with the extension tube 150. Therefore, the outside air may be introduced into the cleaner main body 110 by passing though the cleaner nozzle 160 and the extension tube 150 by the suction force generated from the cleaner main body 110.

[0084] For example, the cleaner nozzle 160 may include a nozzle housing 161, an agitator 162, the connection tube 163, a nozzle driving part 165, the corrugated tube 166, and a supporting part 167.

[0085] The nozzle housing 161 may form an external appearance of the cleaner nozzle 160, and accommodate parts such as a nozzle motor 165a and the like on the inside.

[0086] An inlet may be formed on a lower surface of the nozzle housing 161. The inlet is a hole for sucking in dust together with air. The inlet may be communicated with the extension tube 150, and guide dust to flow into the cleaner main body 110. In more detail, the inlet may be connected to one side of the corrugated tube 166 and another side of the corrugated tube 166 may be connected to the extension tube 150.

[0087] The agitator 162 is configured to sweep dust attached to the floor surface and guide the dust to the inlet. For example, the agitator 162 is formed in a cylindrical shape which centers on a rotational axis. The rotational axis of the agitator 162 is disposed in left and right directions.

[0088] The agitator 162 is disposed at a front of the inlet. The agitator 162 sweeps dust attached on the floor surface at a front of the inlet. The dust attached to the floor surface may be separated from the floor surface by the agitator 162, and may be more easily sucked into the inlet.

[0089] The cleaner nozzle 160 includes the connection tube 163 coupled to the cleaner main body 110 or the extension tube 150.

[0090] The connection tube 163 may be formed in a tube shape, and an end on one side in the longitudinal direction thereof may be coupled to the nozzle housing 161 and another end on one side in the longitudinal direction thereof may be detachably coupled to the cleaner main body 110 or the extension tube 150.

[0091] The connection tube 163 may be coupled to the nozzle housing 161 in a manner capable of rotating relative to the nozzle housing 161. Therefore, this configuration may provide operational convenience to the user.

[0092] An electric wire may be embedded in the extension tube 163, and the embedded electric wire may be electrically connected to the cleaner main body 110 or the extension tube 150.

[0093] The cleaner nozzle 160 may include the nozzle driving part 165 configured to rotate the agitator 162. The nozzle driving part 165 may include the nozzle motor 165a and at least one gear (not illustrated) configured to convey a rotational force of the nozzle motor 165a to the agitator 152. The nozzle motor 165a may generate a rotational force by receiving power from the battery 140.

[0094] The corrugated tube 166 may be disposed on an inside of the connection tube 163, and a flow path in which air flows may be formed on the inside thereof.

[0095] The corrugated tube 166 may be formed in a shape of a corrugated tube. In addition, the corrugated tube 166 may be formed of a material having elasticity. With this configuration, the corrugated tube 166 may be deformed in interrelation with a rotation of the connection tube 163.

[0096] An internal space of the corrugated tube 166 may be configured such that one side thereof is communicated with the inlet, and another side thereof is communicated with the suction part 112 of the cleaner main body 110 or an internal space of the extension tube 150.

[0097] The supporting part 167 may be disposed on an outer circumferential surface of the connection tube 163, and may support the nozzle housing 161 and the connection tube 163. In more detail, the supporting part 167 may protrude from a rear outer circumferential surface of the connection tube 163. The supporting part 167 may support the nozzle housing 161 and the connection tube 163, as the supporting part 167 is in contact with the floor surface when the cleaner main body 110 is placed on the floor surface.

[0098] Meanwhile, in the present disclosure, the supporting part 167 may be coupled to the charging stand 300 which will be described below.

[0099] The supporting part 167 may include an extension protruding from an outer circumferential surface of the connection tube 163 and a supporting portion bent and protruding from the extension. At this instance, the supporting portion may extend along a direction intersecting an extending direction of the extension.

[0100] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a connection module 600 may be disposed in the supporting part 167. In more detail, the connection module 600 may be provided on an inside of the supporting part 167.

[0101] In a state in which the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, the charging terminal 312 may be inserted into an inside of the supporting part 167, and may be connected to the connection module 600 provided on the inside of the supporting part 167 (refer to FIG. 7).

[0102] Meanwhile, in FIGS. 4 and 5, views for describing the charging stand of the cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated, and in FIGS. 6 and 7, views for describing a state in which the cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is coupled to the charging stand of the cleaner are illustrated.

[0103] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 7, the charging stand 300 of the cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is described as below.

[0104] The charging stand 300 of the cleaner includes a charging stand main body 310, a support 320, and a base 330. At this instance, the base 330 is installed on the ground surface, the support 320 is connected toward an upper side in the gravity direction from the base 330, and the charging stand main body 310 is disposed on an upper side of the support 320.

[0105] To help in understanding the above, directions of the charging stand 300 of the cleaner are defined as below. In a state in which the cleaner 100 is coupled to the charging stand 300 of the cleaner, a direction in which the cleaner 100 is disposed based on the support 320 may be referred to as a front. In addition, a direction opposite the forward direction based on the support 320 may be referred to as a rear.

[0106] In the charging stand main body 310, a charging terminal 312 to which the cleaner 100 is coupled, and configured to charge the battery 140 of the cleaner 100 is provided. In more detail, the cleaner nozzle 160 may be detachably coupled to the charging stand main body 310, and as the connection module 600 of the cleaner 100 and the charging terminal 312 are electrically connected to each other, power may be supplied.

[0107] The charging stand main body 310 may include a cleaner coupling portion 311, the charging terminal 312, and a coupling guide portion 313.

[0108] The cleaner coupling portion 311 includes the charging terminal 312 disposed therein, and allows the cleaner nozzle 160 to be coupled thereto. In more detail, the cleaner coupling portion 311 may allow at least a portion of the cleaner nozzle 160 to be coupled thereto. For example, the cleaner coupling portion 311 may allow the supporting part 167 of the cleaner nozzle 160 and / or the connection module 600 to be coupled thereto.

[0109] For example, the cleaner coupling portion 311 may protrude from a cleaner receiving wall 313a which will be described below toward the forward direction. Therefore, in a state in which the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, the supporting part 167 of the cleaner nozzle 160 may be disposed on an upper side of the cleaner coupling portion 311.

[0110] With such a configuration, even in case in which the extension tube 150 stands up along a direction perpendicular to the ground surface, there is an effect that the overall balance of the cleaner 100 may be maintained as the cleaner coupling portion 311 supports a load of the cleaner nozzle 160 and the cleaner main body 110.

[0111] Although not illustrated, an electric wire may be accommodated on the inside of the cleaner coupling portion 311. Such an electric wire may be connected to the charging terminal 312.

[0112] The charging terminal 312 may be provided in the cleaner charging stand 300, and when the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, the charging terminal 312 may supply power to the cleaner 100.

[0113] The charging terminal 312 may be disposed to protrude upward in the gravity direction from the cleaner coupling portion 311.

[0114] In a state in which the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, the charging terminal 312 may be inserted into an inside of the cleaner 100. For example, in a state in which the cleaner nozzle 160 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, the charging terminal 312 may be inserted into the inside of the cleaner nozzle 160. As another example, the charging terminal 312 may be inserted into the extension tube 150.

[0115] The charging terminal 312 may be inserted into the inside of the cleaner 100 and supply power to the cleaner 100. For example, the charging terminal 312 may be a DC plug.

[0116] Therefore, when the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner coupling portion 311, the cleaner 100 may descend by the gravity, and the cleaner 100 and the coupling terminal 312 may be electrically connected as the coupling terminal 312 is inserted into the inside of the cleaner 100. Alternatively, in a state in which the cleaner 100 is disposed on an upper side of the cleaner coupling portion 311, when the user presses the cleaner 100 downward, the coupling terminal 312 may be inserted into the inside of the cleaner 100 to be electrically connected thereto.

[0117] Meanwhile, the smallest distance from the floor surface to the charging terminal 312 is smaller than the greatest length of the cleaner nozzle 160.

[0118] With this configuration, in a state in which the cleaner 100 is mounted in the cleaner charging stand 300, there is an effect that charging can be performed below the cleaner 100.

[0119] The coupling guide portion 313 may guide coupling of the cleaner 100.

[0120] The coupling guide portion 313 may include a cleaner receiving wall 313a, a side wall 313b, and a stopper 313c. At this instance, the cleaner receiving wall 313a may be connected to the support 320, the side wall 313b may protrude from the cleaner receiving wall 313a, and the stopper 313c may protrude from the side wall 313b.

[0121] The coupling guide portion 313 may be formed in a shape of being connected to the support 320, and may be disposed at a front of the support 320. In addition, the coupling guide portion 313 may be disposed on an upper side in the gravity direction than the cleaner coupling portion 311. At this instance, it is preferable that the coupling guide portion 313 is formed in a shape connected to the cleaner coupling portion 311, but is not limited thereto. When the coupling guide portion 313 and the cleaner coupling portion 311 are formed in a shape connected to each other, an effect of supporting the load of the cleaner 100 may be improved.

[0122] The cleaner receiving wall 313a may mean a surface facing at least a portion of the cleaner 100. The cleaner receiving wall 313a may be a surface formed along a direction intersecting the ground surface. For example, the cleaner receiving wall 313a may be a surface formed along a direction perpendicular to the ground surface.

[0123] The cleaner receiving wall 313a may be connected to the support 320, and may be formed along a direction intersecting an extending direction of the cleaner coupling portion 311. For example, the cleaner receiving wall 313a may mean a surface formed at a front of the support 320. At this instance, the cleaner receiving wall 313a may mean a surface surrounded by the side wall 313b and the cleaner coupling portion 311.

[0124] Therefore, at least a portion of the cleaner 100 may be accommodated in a space surrounded by the cleaner receiving wall 313a, the side wall 313b, and the cleaner coupling portion 311.

[0125] The side wall 313b may protrude and extend from the cleaner receiving wall 313a. For example, the side wall 313b may protrude and extend toward the front from the cleaner receiving wall 313a.

[0126] The side wall 313b may be a pair disposed in a manner of facing each other and extending. For example, the pair of the side walls 313b may extend in parallel to each other along the gravity direction.

[0127] The side wall 313b may be disposed on an upper side of the cleaner coupling portion 311 in the gravity direction. For example, the side wall 313b may extend upward from the cleaner coupling portion 311.

[0128] With this configuration, when the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, at least a portion of the cleaner 100 may be disposed between the pair of side walls 313b.

[0129] The stopper 313c may protrude and extend from the pair of side walls 313b in a direction closer to each other. The stopper 313c may be formed in a direction parallel to the cleaner receiving wall 313a.

[0130] The stopper 313c may be disposed on an upper side of the cleaner coupling portion 311 in the gravity direction. For example, the stopper 313c may extend upward from the cleaner coupling portion 311.

[0131] Therefore, when the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, movement of the cleaner in the forward and rearward directions is limited by the stopper 313c, thereby being able to support the cleaner 100 stably.

[0132] Therefore, the coupling guide portion 313 in general may be formed in a tube shape having a slit formed therein.

[0133] Therefore, the cleaner 100 may be moved downward from an upper side to a lower side in the gravity direction along the coupling guide portion 313 to be coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300.

[0134] The support 320 may be connected to the charging stand main body 310. The stand 320 may be connected to the cleaner receiving wall 313a. For example, the stand 320 may be integrally formed with the charging stand main body.

[0135] The support 320 may connect the charging stand main body 310 and the base 330. The support 320 may be disposed on an upper side of the base 330. The support 320 may extend upward from the base 330.

[0136] The support 320 may be formed along a direction intersecting the ground surface. For example, the support 320 may be formed in a quadrangular column shape. As another example, the support 320 may be formed in a circular column shape. As still another example, the support 320 may be formed in a quadrangular column shape, with an edge thereof formed to have a curved surface.

[0137] Though not illustrated, an electric wire may be accommodated on an inside of the support 320. Such an electric wire may pass through the cleaner coupling portion 311 and be connected to the charging terminal 312.

[0138] The base 330 may be disposed to face the ground surface, and support the support 320 and the charging stand main body 310. The base 330 may be placed on the ground surface to be in contact with the ground surface.

[0139] The base 330 may include a base main body 331 and a nozzle support 332.

[0140] The base main body 331 may be placed on the ground surface to be in contact with the ground surface. The base main body 331 may be formed in a plate shape having a certain thickness. At this instance, a thickness of the base main body 331 may be thinner toward an end of the base main body 331. That is, the thickness may be thicker toward a center thereof. At this instance, the support 320 may be connected to the center of the base main body 331.

[0141] With such a configuration, the base main body 331 may expand a supporting area with respect to the bottom surface while strengthening support force with respect to the support 320.

[0142] The nozzle support 332 may protrude from the base main body 331, and be in contact with the cleaner nozzle 160.

[0143] The nozzle support 332 may protrude upward from an upper surface of the base main body 331. The nozzle support 332 may be disposed at a more front side than a side connected to the support 320 of the base main body 331.

[0144] Therefore, when the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, the base main body 331 supports the ground surface, the nozzle support 332 supports and is in contact with the cleaner nozzle 160, and therefore, the cleaner 100 may not fall down and may be stably supported.

[0145] Meanwhile, FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view for describing a state in which the cleaner nozzle according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is coupled to the charging stand of the cleaner.

[0146] In order to avoid redundant description, because a structure and a function of the present embodiment are identical to those of the cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure except those specifically described in the present embodiment, the same description may be applied.

[0147] In the present embodiment, the connection module 600 is provided in the cleaner nozzle 160 separately from the supporting part 167. For example, the supporting part 167 and the connection module 600 may be disposed on an outer circumferential surface of the connection tube 163. In more detail, the supporting part 167 and the connection module 600 may be provided to protrude from a rear outer circumferential surface of the connection tube 163. Therefore, the supporting part 167 and the connection module 600 may be in contact with the floor surface when the cleaner main body 110 is placed on the floor surface.

[0148] The connection module 600 may be connected closer to the nozzle housing 161 than the supporting part 167. In more detail, the connection module 600 may be disposed closer to the nozzle housing 161 than the supporting part 167 on the connection tube 163.

[0149] Meanwhile, in the present disclosure, the supporting part 167 and the connection module 600 may be coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300.

[0150] In a state in which the cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner charging stand 300, the supporting part 167 and the connection module 600 may be accommodated in the coupling guide portion 313, and the connection module 600 may be in contact with the cleaner coupling portion 311, and the charging terminal 312 may be inserted into and connected to the connection module 600.

[0151] Hereinafter, referring to FIGS. 9 and drawings thereafter, as an embodiment of the present disclosure, a cleaner into which a battery discharging path connected from the battery 140 to a nozzle motor 235, and a battery charging path connected from an external power supply device 80 to the battery 140 are integrated will be described.

[0152] FIG. 9 is a view schematically illustrating a structure to which a power supply line is connected in a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 9, the cleaner 100 according to the present embodiment further includes a power supply line 500.

[0154] The power supply line 500 means a circuit line connecting the battery 140 and the cleaner nozzle 160 to each other.

[0155] At least a portion of the power supply line 500 may be installed in the extension tube 150 of the cleaner 100. At least a portion of the power supply line 500 may be installed in the cleaner nozzle 160. At least a portion of the power supply line 500 may be installed in the cleaner main body 110.

[0156] The power supply line 500 may extend at a connecting point at which the extension tube 150 and the cleaner nozzle 160 are coupled to each other through connection between connectors. The power supply line 500 may extend through connection between connectors at a connecting point at which the extension tube 150 and the cleaner main body 110 are coupled to each other. As is well known, the above-described connector may be configured in a male and female form in a relationship of engagement. Through this configuration, the power supply line 500 may transfer power supplied by the battery 140 to the cleaner nozzle 160.

[0157] The connection module 600 may be electrically connected to the power supply device 80 existing outside the cleaner 100 through the charging terminal 312.

[0158] Here, the power supply device 80 may be, for example, an electrical outlet. The kinds of the external power supply device 80 are not limited to the above-described example, and all those capable of supplying power to the electric devices and existing outside the cleaner may be included in the external power supply device 80 disclosed in the present disclosure.

[0159] As described above, one side of the connection module 600 may be electrically connected to the external power supply device 80 and another side thereof may be electrically connected to the power supply line 500 inside the cleaner.

[0160] In the present disclosure, the connection module 600 may have a structure in which the entire connection module 600 is inserted into the inside of the cleaner, and the external power supply device 80 may include a male connector, and a corresponding component of the connection module 600 connected to the male connector may be implemented as a female connector.

[0161] That is, the connection module 600 is provided such that the charging power supplied from the external power supply device 80 is transferred to the battery 140 included in the cleaner main body 110 of the cleaner through the power supply line 500. That is, the connection module 600 may electrically connect the external power supply device 80 and the power supply line 500 between the external power supply device 80 and the power supply line 500.

[0162] The connection module 600 may be installed in one selected component among the cleaner nozzle 160 and the extension tube 150.

[0163] Alternatively, the connection module 600 may be provided in plural number and may be installed in the cleaner nozzle 160 and the extension tube 150.

[0164] When the connection module 600 is installed in the extension tube 150, charging of the battery 140 is possible even in a state in which only the extension tube 150 and the cleaner main body 110 are coupled. Therefore, there is an effect that the cleaner nozzle 160 may be separated while the battery 140 is charged so that hygiene management is possible.

[0165] In the meantime, the cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a switching part 193 and a control part 195.

[0166] The switching part 193 is disposed between the battery 140 and the connection module 600 and is configured to be turned on or off. From another point of view, the switching part 193 is disposed between the battery 140 and the cleaner nozzle 160 and is configured to be turned on or off. For example, the switching part 193 may be connected to a positive electrode terminal of the battery 140 (refer to FIG. 10). When the switching part 193 is turned on, the battery 140 and the connection module 600 may become electrically connected to each other. When the switching part 193 is turned off, the battery 140 and the connection module 600 may be electrically disconnected. When the switching part 193 is turned on, the battery 140 and the cleaner nozzle 160 may become electrically connected to each other. When the switching part 193 is turned off, the battery 140 and the cleaner nozzle 160 may be electrically disconnected.

[0167] The control part 195 is configured to control charging or discharging of the battery 140 through the switching part 193.

[0168] When the connection module 600 and the external power supply device 80 are connected, the control part 195 may make the switching part 193 be turned on and charge the battery 140.

[0169] When input of a user command for driving the cleaner nozzle 160 through the operating part 118 of the cleaner main body 110 is detected, the control part 195 may make the switching part 193 be turned on and discharge the battery 140.

[0170] In other words, the basic state of the switching part 193 is off, and according to satisfaction of a certain condition, the switching part 193 may be turned on through control of the control part 195.

[0171] Meanwhile, the control part 195 may include all kinds of devices capable of processing data such as a processor. Here, 'the processor' may mean a data processing device which is embedded in hardware and having a physically structured circuit so as to perform a code included in a program or a function expressed as a command.

[0172] The control part 195 may be mounted in a PCB (not illustrated) installed in the cleaner main body 110. The control part 195 may perform control related to the general drive of the cleaner in addition to turning on or off the switching part 193. For example, the control part 195 may perform control of operations of the suction motor 114.

[0173] The control part 195 may detect a flow of a current and determine whether the connection module 600 and the external power supply device 80 are connected to each other. Detection of a flow of a current may be performed in a measuring part (not illustrated). The control part 195 may determine whether the external power supply device 80 is connected to the connection module 600 through a signal provided from the measuring part. The measuring part may be disposed in a circuit line in which the current desired to be measured flows.

[0174] In more detail, when the external power supply device 80 is connected to the connection module 600, a positive terminal (a third connection 633 which will be described below) of the connection module 600 is electrically connected to the power supply line 500. Through this connection, a current more than a set current flows in the measuring part. When the current more than a set current flows in the measuring part, a signal may be transmitted to the control part 195, and the control part 195 may recognize through the signal received from the measuring part that the external power supply device 80 and the connection module 600 are connected, that is, the external power supply device 80 and the power supply line 500 are electrically connected. By doing so, the control part 195 may turn on the switching part 193, and the battery 140 may be charged.

[0175] On contrary, in a state in which the external power supply device 80 is not connected to the connection module 600, the positive terminal of the connection module 600 is not electrically connected to the power supply line 500. In such a state, a current smaller than the set current (theoretically 0 ampere current) flows in the measuring part. When the current smaller than the set current flows in the measuring part, the signal is not transmitted to the control part 195, and the control part 195 does not control the switching part 193, thereby the switching part 193 maintains the off operation.

[0176] The control part 195 may determine whether the user command for driving the cleaner nozzle 160 is input by receiving the signal transmitted from the operating part 118.

[0177] In more detail, when the user presses a power button of the operating part 118, a signal is transmitted from the operating part 118 to the control part 195, and the control part 195 may recognize that the user wants to drive the cleaner nozzle 160 through the signal received from the operating part 118. With this configuration, the control part 195 may turn on the switching part 193, and the battery 140 may be discharged.

[0178] Hereinafter, referring to FIGS. 10 to 11, an electrical connection structure of the present embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail.

[0179] FIG. 10 is a view illustrating an embodiment in which the connection module is installed in the cleaner nozzle with respect to FIG. 9, and FIG. 11 is a view illustrating an embodiment in which the connection module is installed in the extension tube with respect to FIG. 9.

[0180] FIGS. 10 to 11 have only a difference in a position in which the connection module 600 is installed, and FIG. 10 will be described as a representative embodiment.

[0181] Referring to FIG.10, the power supply line 500 may include the circuit line branched in a Y-shape. The Y-shaped circuit line 510 of the power supply line 500 may be disposed at one point at which the connection module 600 and the power supply line 500 are connected. The Y-shaped circuit line 510 may be connected to the third connection 633 of the connection module 600 which will be described below. Thus, the Y-shaped circuit line 510 may be branched such that the circuit line 510 stretched out from the connection module 600 is branched in two directions, with one end branched toward the cleaner nozzle 160 and another end branched toward the cleaner main body 110.

[0182] In more detail, the Y-shaped circuit line 510 may include a first branch line 510a, a second branch line 510b, and a third branch line 510c. The first branch line 510a is connected to the battery 140. The second branch line 510b is connected to the cleaner nozzle 160. The third branch line 510c is connected to the connection module 600 between the first branch line 510a and the second branch line 510b.

[0183] When the external power supply device 80 and the connection module 600 are connected, a current flows in the third branch line 510c. In this state, when the switching part 193 is turned on, power supplied to the third branch line 510c may charge the battery 140 through the first branch line 510a.

[0184] When the external power supply device 80 and the connection module 600 are disconnected, the current does not flow in the third branch line 510c. In this state, when the switching part 193 is turned on, power is supplied to the cleaner nozzle 160 from the battery 140 through the first branch line 510a and the second branch line 510b, and the battery 140 may be discharged.

[0185] That is, the first branch line 510a becomes a circuit line used for both the charging and the discharging of the battery 140.

[0186] From another point of view, the first branch line 510a is used to overlap the charging path and the discharging path of the battery 140.

[0187] From still another point of view, at least some circuit line of the power supply line 500 may perform both the charging current path of the battery 140 and the discharging current path of the battery 140.

[0188] From still another point of view, the discharging circuit line of the power supply line 500 connected from the battery 140 to the cleaner nozzle 160 is integrated with the charging circuit line for charging the battery 140.

[0189] From still another point of view, at least some circuit line of the power supply line 500 may have a current flow along the charging current path for charging the battery 140 under a first condition, and a current flow along the discharging current path for discharging the battery 140 under a second condition. Here, the charging current path is a current path oriented from the external power supply device 80 to the battery 140. Here, the discharging current path is a current path oriented from the battery 140 to the cleaner nozzle 160. At this instance, the first condition is that there is input of the user command through the operating part 118 performed for the purpose of driving the cleaner nozzle 160. At this instance, the second condition is that the external power supply device 80 is electrically connected to the connection module 600.

[0190] From still another point of view, at least some circuit line of the power supply line 500 may be configured to have different directions of the flow of the current according to satisfaction of the first condition and the second condition. At this instance, the first condition is that there is input of the user command through the operating part 118 performed for the purpose of driving the cleaner nozzle 160. At this instance, the second condition is that the external power supply device 80 is electrically connected to the connection module 600.

[0191] Through this configuration, there is an effect that the cleaner may become lightweighted.

[0192] Further, referring to FIG. 10, the connection module 600 may include an external terminal connecting part 610 exposed to the outside and electrically connected to the external power supply device 80 and a power supply line connecting part 630 electrically connected to the power supply line 500.

[0193] At this instance, the power supply line connecting part 630 may include a first connection 631, a second connection 632, and a third connection 633. At this instance, each connection may be a terminal for electric connection. That is, the power supply line connecting part 630 may be configured with three pins.

[0194] The first connection 631 and the second connection 632 of the power supply line connecting part 630 may be electrically shorted or opened with each other according to connection to the external power supply device 80. The third connection 633 may be a terminal connected to a positive electrode terminal when the connection 600 is connected to the external power supply device 80.

[0195] In more detail, in a state in which the connection module 600 is not connected to the external power supply device 80, that is, when the external power supply device 80 is not connected to the external terminal connecting part 610, the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 may be electrically shorted. At this instance, the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 may be connected to a negative electrode terminal of the battery 140. At the same time, the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 may be ground-connected.

[0196] However, at this instance, in a state in which the switching part 193 is turned off, power is not supplied to the cleaner nozzle 160. In a state in which the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 are electrically shorted with each other, only when the switching part 193 is turned on as a user command for driving the cleaner nozzle 160 is input through the operating part 118, power may be supplied from the battery 140 to the cleaner nozzle 160. That is, the battery 140 may be discharged.

[0197] A state in which the connection module 600 is connected to the external power supply device 80, that is, the external power supply device 80 is connected to the external terminal connecting part 610, the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 may be electrically opened with each other. At this instance, the first connection 631 may be connected to a negative electrode terminal of the external power supply device 80. At the same time, the first connection 631 may be connected to the negative electrode terminal of the battery 140. At the same time, the third connection 633 may be connected to a positive electrode terminal of the external power supply device 80.

[0198] When the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 are electrically opened with each other, as a result, a negative electrode terminal of the external power supply device 80 is connected to the first connection 631 and a positive electrode terminal thereof is connected to the third connection 633. Therefore, the battery 140 may be charged by power supplied from the external power supply device 80. At this instance, as described above, the control part 195 may detect a state in which the external power supply device 80 is connected to the power supply line 500 and may turn on the switching part 193.

[0199] The electric short and opening between the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 may be performed by a mechanical switch (not illustrated) embedded in the connection module 600. A structure having a contact point which is connected usually and in which one line is cut according to insertion of the plug is a structure generally used in a DC jack, and therefore, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0200] FIG. 12 is a view illustrating a flow of a current when the battery is discharged with respect to an embodiment in FIG. 10, and FIG. 13 is a view illustrating a flow of a current when the battery is charged with respect to an embodiment in FIG. 10.

[0201] The flow of the current will be described as below with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13.

[0202] First, referring to FIG. 12, in a state in which the external power supply device 80 is not connected to the cleaner and the external power supply device 80 and the cleaner are disconnected from each other, the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 of the connection module 600 are electrically shorted (closed) from each other, and they serve to perform the same function as that of the conventional power supply line 500. The third branch line 510c connected to the third connection 633 has one side which is opened, and a current does not flow therein.

[0203] Next, referring to FIG. 13, in a state in which the external power supply device 80 is connected to the cleaner, the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 of the connection module 600 are electrically opened with each other (opened), and the discharging path of the power supply line 500 connected from the battery 140 to the cleaner nozzle 160 is cut, and the charging path of the battery 140 is formed. A positive electrode terminal of the external power supply device 80 is connected to one side of the third connection 633, and the third branch line 510c is connected to another side thereof, and thus, the current flows in the third connection 633. That is, a closed circuit is formed between the external power supply device 80 and the battery 140, and therefore, the battery 140 is charged.

[0204] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a drive of the cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0205] Referring to FIG. 14, the flow of a drive of the cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described as below.

[0206] First, whether the external power supply device 80 is connected to the power supply line 500 is determined (S100). The determination may be performed by the control part 195.

[0207] If the external power supply device 80 is connected to the power supply line 500, the discharging path of the power supply line 500 is blocked (S200). The blocking may be performed structurally as the contact point between the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 is released and the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 are electrically opened with each other.

[0208] At this instance, the flow of the current of the charging path for charging the battery 140 is formed (S300). In this operation (S300), turning the switching part 193 on by the control part 195 is included.

[0209] If the external power supply device 80 and the power supply line 500 are disconnected, the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 of the connection module 600 are electrically shorted. At this instance, in a state in which the switching part 193 is turned off, power is not supplied to the cleaner nozzle 160.

[0210] In a state in which the first connection 631 and the second connection 632 are electrically shorted, when a command for driving the nozzle is input from the user (S400), the flow of the current of the discharging path for discharging the battery 140 is formed (S500). Here, the command for driving the nozzle means a user input of pressing the power button of the operating part 118. Here, whether to input the command for driving the nozzle may be determined by the control part 195. In this operation (S500), turning on the switching part 193 by the control part 195 may be included.

[0211] Referring to FIG. 14, description in more detail with respect to the flow of the drive of the cleaner described with reference to FIG. 14 may be substituted with what is described above with reference to FIGS. 9 to 13.

[0212] As described above, according to the present disclosure, as the discharging path and the charging path are not structurally separated and are integrated into the power supply line, there is an effect that the cleaner may become lightweighted.

[0213] In addition, according to the present disclosure, there is an effect that the circuit line in some section of the power supply line may perform both the discharging function and the charging function, and therefore, the unit cost is reduced compared to a case in which the discharging circuit and the charging circuit are provided in a structure in which they are separated.

[0214] The present disclosure has been described in detail with reference to the exemplary embodiments, but the exemplary embodiments are illustrative and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. It is apparent that those skilled in the art may modify or improve the exemplary embodiments within the technical spirit of the present disclosure.

[0215] All of the simple modifications or changes of the disclosure belong to the scope of the present disclosure, and the specific scope of the disclosure may be apparent by the accompanying claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0043]Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0044]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.

[0045]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from a different direction.

[0046]Referring to FIGS. 1 t...

Claims

1. A charging stand (300), comprising: a charging stand main body (310) to which a cleaner (100) is coupled and comprising a charging terminal (312) configured to charge a battery (140) of the cleaner (100); a support (320) connected to the charging stand main body (310); and a base (330) supported on a floor surface and connected to the support (320), wherein the charging terminal (312) is inserted into an inside of the cleaner (100) when the cleaner (100) is coupled to the charging stand main body (310).

2. The charging stand (300) of claim 1, wherein the charging stand main body (310) comprises: a cleaner coupling portion (311) on which the charging terminal (312) is disposed and to which the cleaner (100) is coupled, and wherein the charging terminal (312) protrudes upward in a gravity direction from the cleaner coupling portion (311).

3. The charging stand (300) of claim 1, wherein the charging stand main body (310) comprises: a cleaner coupling portion (311) on which the charging terminal (312) is disposed and to which at least a portion of the cleaner (100) is coupled; and a coupling guide portion (313) configured to guide coupling of the cleaner (100).

4. The charging stand (300) of claim 3, wherein the coupling guide portion (313) comprises: a cleaner receiving wall (313a) connected to the support (320), connected to the cleaner coupling portion (311), and formed along a direction intersecting an extending direction of the cleaner coupling portion (311); a pair of side walls (313b) protruding and extending from the cleaner receiving wall (313a), disposed on an upper side in a gravity direction of the cleaner coupling portion (311), and extending along a gravity direction in a shape facing each other; and stoppers (313c) protruding and extending in a direction getting closer to each other5. The charging stand (300) of claim 1, wherein the base (330) comprises: a base main body (331); and a nozzle support (332) protruding from the base main body (331) and in contact with a nozzle (160) of the cleaner (100).

6. The charging stand (300) of claim 1, wherein a smallest distance from a floor surface to the charging terminal (312) is smaller than a greatest length of a nozzle (160) of the cleaner (100).

7. A cleaner (100), comprising: a cleaner main body (110) comprising a suction motor (114) configured to generate a suction force and a battery (140) configured to supply power; a cleaner nozzle (160) configured to clean up a floor surface; and an extension tube (150) detachably coupled to the cleaner nozzle (160) and electrically connected to the cleaner main body (110) and the cleaner nozzle (160), wherein the cleaner nozzle (160) or the extension tube (150) has an arrangement of a connection module (600) connected to a charging terminal (312) of a charging stand (300) so as to charge the battery (140).

8. The cleaner (100) of claim 7, further comprising: a power supply line (500) having at least a portion installed in the extension tube (150) and configured to convey power supplied from the battery (140) to the cleaner nozzle (160), wherein the power supply line (500) is disposed at one point connected to the connection module (600), and comprises a circuit line branched in both directions with one end branched toward the cleaner nozzle (160) and another end branched toward the main body (110).

9. The cleaner (100) of claim 7, further comprising: a switching part (193) disposed between the battery (140) and the connection module (600) and configured to be turned on or off; and a control part (195) configured to control charging or discharging of the battery (140) through the switching part (193).

10. The cleaner (100) of claim 9, wherein when the connection module (600) and the charging terminal (312) of the charging stand (300) are connected, the control part (195) charges the battery (140) by turning on the switching part (193).

11. The cleaner (100) of claim 9, wherein when an input of a user command for driving the cleaner nozzle (160) through the operating part (118) is detected, the control part (195) discharges the battery (140) by turning on the switching part (193).

12. The cleaner (100) of claim 7, wherein the connection module (600) comprises: a terminal connecting part (610) electrically connected to a charging terminal (312) of the charging stand (300); and a power supply line connecting part (630) electrically connected to the power supply line (500), wherein the power supply line connecting part (630) comprises: first and second connections (631, 632) electrically shorted or opened with each other according to whether the charging stand (300) is connected to the charging terminal (312); and a third connection (633) connected to a positive electrode terminal when the charging stand (300) is connected to the charging terminal (312).

13. The cleaner (100) of claim 12, wherein the power supply line (500) comprises a circuit line (510) disposed at a point connected to the third connection (633) and branched in both directions with one end branched toward the cleaner nozzle (160) and another end branched toward the main body (110).

14. The cleaner (100) of claim 12, wherein when the connection module (600) is connected to the charging terminal (312) of the charging stand (300), the first connection (631) and the second connection (632) are electrically opened with each other and the battery (140) is charged.

15. The cleaner (100) of claim 12, wherein in a state in which the connection module (600) is not connected to the charging terminal (312) of the charging stand (300), the first connection (631) and the second connection (632) are electrically shorted with each other, and in a state of the short circuit, when a user command for driving the cleaner nozzle (160) is input through the operating part (118), the battery (140) is discharged.

Images