Lighting device for vacuum cleaner, lighting unit for vacuum cleaner, and vacuum cleaner

Abstract

To provide a lighting device for a vacuum cleaner, a lighting unit for the vacuum cleaner, and the vacuum cleaner capable of brightly illuminating a place desired to be brightly illuminated.SOLUTION: A lens including a substrate, a chip light-emitting element that is mounted on the substrate and emits light having a first light distribution angle, a lens portion that transmits the light and emits transmitted light having a second light distribution angle smaller than the first light distribution angle, and a positioning portion that comes into contact with the substrate and positions the lens portion with respect to the chip light-emitting element; SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a lighting device for a vacuum cleaner, a lighting unit for a vacuum cleaner, and a vacuum cleaner. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an electric vacuum cleaner that uses a light-emitting element with high directivity. The light-emitting element is disposed so that emitted light follows the suction tube in a plan view and moves away from the suction tube in a side view (paragraphs 0023 and 0033). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-97665 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Increasing the brightness of light emitted by a bullet-shaped light-emitting diode (LED), a typical example of a light-emitting element with high directivity, by passing a current equivalent to that passed through a chip LED of a similar size through the bullet-shaped LED is often difficult due to issues such as heat generation. Furthermore, because the light distribution characteristics of a bullet-shaped LED are already adjusted by the encapsulating resin with a bullet shape, it is also difficult to concentrate the light emitted by the bullet-shaped LED to obtain light with desired light distribution characteristics. For this reason, the vacuum cleaner disclosed in Patent Document 1 may not be able to brightly illuminate areas where bright illumination is desired.

[0005] In view of this problem, an aspect of the present disclosure has been made. An object of the aspect of the present disclosure is to provide, for example, a vacuum cleaner lighting device, a vacuum cleaner lighting unit, and a vacuum cleaner that can brightly illuminate areas that are desired to be brightly illuminated. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A first aspect of the present disclosure provides a lighting device for a vacuum cleaner, comprising: a substrate; a chip light-emitting element mounted on the substrate and emitting light having a first light distribution angle; a lens portion that transmits the light and emits transmitted light having a second light distribution angle smaller than the first light distribution angle; a lens having a positioning portion that contacts the substrate and positions the lens portion relative to the chip light-emitting element; and a light-shielding cover that houses the chip light-emitting element and the lens and blocks some of the light rays included in the transmitted light.

[0007] A vacuum cleaner lighting unit according to a second aspect of the present disclosure includes the vacuum cleaner lighting device according to the first aspect of the present disclosure and a holder that is fitted with the vacuum cleaner lighting device and holds the vacuum cleaner lighting device.

[0008] A vacuum cleaner according to a third aspect of the present disclosure comprises a vacuum cleaner body having a vacuum cleaner lighting unit according to the second aspect of the present disclosure, an exterior, and an internal structure, wherein the vacuum cleaner lighting unit is disposed between the exterior and the internal structure, and the vacuum cleaner lighting unit comprises a first contact portion that contacts the exterior and a second contact portion that contacts the internal structure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a vacuum cleaner according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a left side view schematically illustrating a vacuum cleaner according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a vacuum cleaner according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a structure in the vicinity of an illumination unit provided in a vacuum cleaner of a first embodiment. [Figure 5] 1 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a structure in the vicinity of an illumination unit provided in a vacuum cleaner of a first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating an illumination unit provided in the vacuum cleaner of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating an illumination unit provided in the vacuum cleaner of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating an illumination unit provided in the vacuum cleaner of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating an illumination unit provided in the vacuum cleaner of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a side view schematically illustrating a state in which the vacuum cleaner of a first embodiment is in use. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a bottom view schematically illustrating the lighting unit provided in the vacuum cleaner of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a bottom view schematically illustrating the lighting unit provided in the vacuum cleaner of the first embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or equivalent elements are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0011] 1. First embodiment 1.1 Vacuum cleaner Fig. 1 is a perspective view that schematically illustrates a vacuum cleaner of a first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a left side view that schematically illustrates the vacuum cleaner of the first embodiment. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view that schematically illustrates the vacuum cleaner of the first embodiment. Figs. 1 to 3 also illustrate arrows that indicate the forward, backward, left, right, upward, and downward directions in the vacuum cleaner of the first embodiment.

[0012] The vacuum cleaner 1 of the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 3 sucks in air and dust, separates the dust from the sucked air, collects the separated dust, and discharges the sucked air.

[0013] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the vacuum cleaner 1 comprises a suction / exhaust unit 11, a dust collection unit 12 and a battery 13.

[0014] The dust collection unit 12 and the battery 13 are attached to the suction / discharge unit 11. The dust collection unit 12 and the battery 13 can be attached to and detached from the suction / discharge unit 11.

[0015] The suction / discharge unit 11 sucks in air and dust and guides the sucked air and dust to the dust collection unit 12. The suction / discharge unit 11 discharges the air guided by the dust collection unit 12. The suction / discharge unit 11 generates suction force to suck in the air and dust using power supplied by the battery 13.

[0016] The dust collection unit 12 collects dust that has been guided by the suction / discharge unit 11, and guides the air that has been guided by the suction / discharge unit 11 to the suction / discharge unit 11.

[0017] The battery 13 supplies power to the suction / discharge unit 11 .

[0018] The vacuum cleaner 1 constitutes a stick-type or handheld vacuum cleaner. When the vacuum cleaner 1 constitutes a stick-type vacuum cleaner, the suction mouth body constituting the stick-type vacuum cleaner is connected to the suction / discharge unit 11 via an extension tube constituting the stick-type vacuum cleaner. When the vacuum cleaner 1 constitutes a handheld vacuum cleaner, the suction mouth body constituting the handheld vacuum cleaner is connected to the suction / discharge unit 11. The vacuum cleaner 1 may be used as is without connecting the suction mouth body or extension tube to the suction / discharge unit 11. 1.2 Suction / exhaust section As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the suction / discharge unit 11 includes a pipe 21, a first case 22, an electric suction machine 23, a second case 24, a lighting unit 25, a window 26, and a handle 27.

[0019] An extension pipe or a suction port body is connected to the front end of the pipe 21. The pipe 21 extends linearly forward. The extension pipe connected to the front end of the pipe 21, the suction port body connected to the front end of the pipe 21 via the extension pipe, and the suction port body connected to the front end of the pipe 21 are arranged on an extension line of the pipe 21.

[0020] An air passage 21a is formed in the pipe 21. The air passage 21a has an intake port 21b and an exhaust port 21c. The intake port 21b is formed at the front end of the pipe 21. The exhaust port 21c is formed at the rear end of the pipe 21. The intake port 21b is connected to the exhaust port of an air passage of an extension pipe or an intake port body connected to the tip of the pipe 21. This allows the air passage 21a to communicate with the air passage of the extension pipe or the intake port body connected to the tip of the pipe 21. The exhaust port 21c is connected to the intake port 61b of the air passage 61a of the dust collecting unit 12. This allows the air passage 21a to communicate with the air passage 61a. The air passage 21a runs from the intake port 21b to the exhaust port 21c, and guides air and dust from the intake port 21b to the exhaust port 21c. As a result, air passage 21a guides air and dust from the air passage of the extension pipe or suction port body connected to the tip of pipe 21 to air passage 61a.

[0021] Air passage 22a is formed in first case 22. Air passage 22a has suction port 22b and exhaust port 22c. Suction port 22b is connected to exhaust port 61c of air passage 61a of dust collecting unit 12. As a result, air passage 22a communicates with air passage 61a. Exhaust port 22c is exposed to the outside of vacuum cleaner 1. As a result, air passage 22a communicates with the outside of vacuum cleaner 1. Air passage 22a leads from suction port 22b to exhaust port 22c, and guides air from suction port 22b to exhaust port 22c. As a result, air passage 22a guides air from air passage 61a to the outside of vacuum cleaner 1. Air passage 22a houses electric suction device 23.

[0022] Electric suction device 23 sends air from suction port 22b of air passage 22a of first case 22 toward exhaust port 22c of air passage 22a. As a result, the air that sucks up dust flows through air passage 21a from suction port 21b of air passage 21a of pipe 21 toward exhaust port 21c of air passage 21a, flows through air passage 61a from suction port 61b of air passage 61a of dust collecting unit 12 toward exhaust port 61c of air passage 61a, and flows through air passage 22a from suction port 22b of air passage 22a of first case 22 toward exhaust port 22c of air passage 22a.

[0023] The second case 24 is coupled to the first case 22. The second case 24 is disposed above the first case 22 and behind the pipe 21. An accommodation space 24a is formed in the second case 24. The accommodation space 24a has an opening 24b. The opening 24b is located at the front end of the second case 24. The accommodation space 24a accommodates the lighting unit 25.

[0024] The lighting unit 25 emits illumination light.

[0025] The window 26 has a plate-like shape. Therefore, the window 26 has a first main surface 26a and a second main surface 26b. The first main surface 26a and the second main surface 26b are on opposite sides to each other. The window 26 is disposed at the opening 24b of the accommodation space 24a of the second case 24 and disposed in front of the lighting unit 25. The first main surface 26a is disposed on the side where the lighting unit 25 is disposed. The second main surface 26b is disposed on the side opposite to the side where the lighting unit 25 is disposed. Illumination light emitted by the lighting unit 25 is incident on the first main surface 26a. The window 26 is translucent. Therefore, the window 26 transmits illumination light incident on the first main surface 26a and allows the transmitted illumination light to exit from the second main surface 26b.

[0026] The handle 27 has a U-shaped rod-like outer shape. The handle 27 is disposed behind the first case 22 and the second case 24. One end of the handle 27 is connected to the second case 24. The other end of the handle 27 is connected to the first case 22. The middle part of the handle 27 is disposed behind the second case 24 and is separated from the second case 24. The handle 27 located behind the second case 24 is provided with an operating unit 28 for operating the vacuum cleaner 1. The operating unit 28 has operating buttons such as an automatic operation button, an operation stop button, and a strong / weak operation switch button.

[0027] The pipe 21, second case 24, and handle 27 are formed by a member 31 and a cover 32. The member 31 includes a pipe component 41, a case component 42, and a handle component 43. The cover 32 includes a case component 52 and a handle component 53. The pipe component 41 forms the pipe 21. The case component 42 and the case component 52 are arranged on the upper and lower sides, respectively, and are joined to each other to form the second case 24. The handle component 43 and the handle component 53 are arranged on the upper and lower sides, respectively, and are joined to each other to form the handle 27.

[0028] Recesses are formed on the inner surfaces of the case constituent portion 42 and the handle constituent portion 43. The case constituent portion 52 and the handle constituent portion 53 close the recesses on the inner surfaces formed in the case constituent portion 42 and the handle constituent portion 43, respectively. The case constituent portion 42 and the case constituent portion 52 define the storage space 24a of the second case 24.

[0029] 1.3 Dust collection section The dust collecting unit 12 is a cyclone type dust collecting unit. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 3, the dust collecting unit 12 includes a dust cup 61, an inner cylinder 62, and a filter 63. The dust collecting unit 12 may also be a paper bag type dust collecting unit.

[0030] An air passage 61a is formed in the dust cup 61. The air passage 61a has an inlet 61b and an outlet 61c. The inlet 61b is connected to the outlet 21c of the air passage 21a of the pipe 21. This allows the air passage 61a to communicate with the air passage 21a. The outlet 61c is connected to the inlet 22b of the air passage 22a of the first case 22. This allows the air passage 61a to communicate with the air passage 22a. The air passage 61a leads from the inlet 61b to the outlet 61c and guides air from the inlet 61b to the outlet 61c. This allows the air passage 61a to guide air from the air passage 21a to the air passage 22a. The dust cup 61 houses an inner cylinder 62 and a filter 63. Dust-laden air flowing in from the inlet 61b forms a spiral airflow, which separates the dust from the air.

[0031] The inner cylinder 62 has a mesh filter, which allows air to pass from the suction port 61b to the discharge port 61c, but prevents dust that has not been centrifuged from passing through.

[0032] The filter 63 allows air to pass from the suction port 61b toward the exhaust port 61c, and prevents the small amount of dust that has passed through the inner cylinder 62 from passing through.

[0033] As a result, dust is collected in air passage 61a.

[0034] 1.4 Lighting unit Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view that schematically illustrates the structure of the vacuum cleaner of the first embodiment in the vicinity of the lighting unit provided in the vacuum cleaner. Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view that schematically illustrates the structure of the vacuum cleaner of the first embodiment in the vicinity of the lighting unit provided in the vacuum cleaner. Figs. 6 to 9 are exploded perspective views that schematically illustrate the lighting unit provided in the vacuum cleaner of the first embodiment. Figs. 4 to 9 also illustrate arrows that indicate the forward, backward, left, right, upward, and downward directions in the vacuum cleaner of the first embodiment.

[0035] As shown in FIGS. 4 to 9, the lighting unit 25 includes a lighting device 71 and a holder 72.

[0036] The lighting device 71 emits illumination light. The holder 72 is disposed in the accommodation space 24a of the second case 24.

[0037] The holder 72 has a shape that fits the shape of the lighting device 71. This allows the holder 72 to fit with the lighting device 71. The holder 72 restricts the lighting device 71 from moving in any direction other than the removal direction. This allows the holder 72 to hold the lighting device 71 and fix the lighting device 71 in any direction other than the removal direction. The removal direction is an upward direction or a direction inclined from the upward direction to the rear.

[0038] The second case 24 has a shape that fits the shape of the assembly that combines the lighting device 71 and the holder 72. As a result, the second case 24 restricts the assembly from moving. As a result, the second case 24 holds the assembly.

[0039] 1.5 Lighting equipment As shown in FIGS. 4 to 9, the lighting device 71 includes a substrate 81, lead wires 82, a connector 83, a chip light-emitting diode (LED) 84, a lens 85, and a light-shielding cover 86.

[0040] The substrate 81 has a first main surface 81a, a second main surface 81b, and an end surface 81c. The first main surface 81a and the second main surface 81b are on opposite sides of each other. The end surface 81c connects the first main surface 81a and the second main surface 81b. The first main surface 81a and the second main surface 81b are substantially flat. The first main surface 81a faces in a direction that slopes downward from the rear. The first main surface 81a abuts against the holder 72. The second main surface 81b faces in a direction that slopes upward from the front. The second main surface 81b abuts against the lens 85. A first recess 81d and a second recess 81e are formed in the end surface 81c. The first recess 81d is formed at the lower end of the substrate 81. The second recess 81e is formed at the upper end of the substrate 81. The inner surfaces of the first recess 81d and the second recess 81e are substantially arcuate surfaces.

[0041] The substrate 81 is a printed circuit board. Therefore, the substrate 81 includes a substrate body made of an insulator and a pattern made of a conductor. The pattern supplies current supplied by the connector 83 to the chip LEDs 84.

[0042] The lead wire 82 is coupled to the connector 83 and electrically connected to the connector 83. As a result, the lead wire 82 supplies a supplied current to the connector 83, and the current is supplied to the chip LED 84 via the connector 83 and the pattern of the substrate 81.

[0043] The connector 83 is mounted on the substrate 81 and electrically connected to the substrate 81. The connector 83 supplies the supplied current to the substrate 81.

[0044] The connector 83 is disposed on the first main surface 81 a of the substrate 81 .

[0045] The chip LED 84 is mounted on the substrate 81 and electrically connected to the substrate 81. The chip LED 84 emits light according to the supplied current. The chip LED 84 emits light L1 having a first light distribution angle.

[0046] The chip LEDs 84 are disposed on the second main surface 81b of the substrate 81. More specifically, the chip LEDs 84 are disposed so that their light-emitting surfaces are parallel to the second main surface 81b. When the chip LEDs 84 are disposed on the second main surface 81b that faces in a direction tilted upward from the front, it is generally easy to orient the direction in which the intensity of the light L1 emitted by the chip LEDs 84 is strongest in a direction tilted upward from the front. Here, "intensity" refers to luminous intensity, which represents the intensity of light emitted from the light source, or illuminance, which represents the brightness of a surface illuminated by the light source. However, when the chip LEDs 84 are disposed on the second main surface 81b that faces in a direction tilted upward from the front, the space occupied by the substrate 81 tends to be large in the vertical direction, and the second case 24 tends to protrude upward significantly. Therefore, in the vacuum cleaner 1, screws and pawls are eliminated from the lighting unit 25, thereby miniaturizing the lighting unit 25 and preventing the second case 24 from protruding upward. This point will be discussed later.

[0047] The current that can be passed through the chip LED 84 is generally greater than the current that can be passed through a bullet-shaped LED of the same size. Therefore, the brightness of the light L1 emitted by the chip LED 84 is easier to increase than the brightness of the light emitted by a bullet-shaped LED. Furthermore, concentrating the light L1 emitted by the chip LED 84 to obtain light with desired light distribution characteristics is easier than concentrating light emitted by a bullet-shaped LED to obtain light with desired light distribution characteristics. Therefore, when the chip LED 84 is used as a light source, it is easy to brightly illuminate areas that require bright illumination. This is particularly noticeable when the lighting device 71 is located far from the suction port body, resulting in a long distance from the lighting device 71 to the surface to be cleaned, and the light illuminating the surface to be cleaned being weaker.

[0048] The chip LED 84 may be replaced with a chip light emitting element other than a chip LED.

[0049] As shown in FIGS. 4 to 9, the lens 85 includes a lens portion 91 and a lens frame portion 92.

[0050] The lens portion 91 has an incident surface 91a and an exit surface 91b. The incident surface 91a and the exit surface 91b are located on opposite sides of each other. The incident surface 91a is located on the side where the chip LEDs 84 are arranged. The exit surface 91b is located on the side where the window 26 is arranged. As a result, light L1 emitted by the chip LEDs 84 is incident on the incident surface 91a. The lens portion 91 is translucent. Therefore, the lens portion 91 transmits light L1 incident on the incident surface 91a and emits the transmitted light L2 from the exit surface 91b.

[0051] The incident surface 91a is a flat surface. The exit surface 91b is a convex curved surface. Therefore, the lens portion 91 is a plano-convex lens. Therefore, the lens portion 91 has positive power and is a converging lens that focuses the light L1 when transmitting the light L1. Therefore, the lens portion 91 emits transmitted light L2 from the lens exit surface 25a, the transmitted light L2 having a second light distribution angle that is smaller than the first light distribution angle of the light L1 incident on the incident surface 91a. However, the lens portion 91 does not focus the transmitted light L2. This ensures safety when the transmitted light L2 is viewed directly. The lens portion 91 may be a lens other than a plano-convex lens.

[0052] The lens portion 91 has an optical axis 91c. The optical axis 91c extends in a direction inclined upward from the front direction in which the pipe 21 extends (a direction in which the further away from the lens portion 91 it is, the further away from the pipe 21 it is), and is perpendicular to the second main surface 81b of the substrate 81. The chip LED 84 is disposed on the optical axis 91c. Therefore, the optical axis 91c is perpendicular to the light-emitting surface of the chip LED 84. Generally, the direction in which the intensity of the light L1 emitted by the chip LED 84 is strongest coincides with the direction in which the optical axis 91c extends.

[0053] The lens frame 92 has a frame-like shape and is disposed along the outer periphery of the incident surface 91a of the lens portion 91.

[0054] The lens frame portion 92 is made of the same material as the lens portion 91 and is continuous with the lens portion 91. In other words, the lens portion 91 and the lens frame portion 92 are integral, which makes it possible to easily manufacture the lens 85.

[0055] The lens frame portion 92 protrudes toward the substrate 81 from the incident surface 91a of the lens portion 91. This allows the lens frame portion 92 to be in contact with the substrate 81 without the incident surface 91a being in contact with the substrate 81.

[0056] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6 to 9, the lens frame 92 includes a first positioning portion 101.

[0057] The first positioning portion 101 comes into contact with the substrate 81 and positions the lens portion 91 relative to the substrate 81. In this way, the first positioning portion 101 positions the lens portion 91 relative to the chip LED 84 fixed to the substrate 81.

[0058] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6 to 9, the first positioning portion 101 includes a first contact portion 111 and a second contact portion 112. As shown in FIGS.

[0059] The first contact portion 111 protrudes toward the substrate 81. The first contact portion 111 is disposed in a range in the surface direction of the substrate 81 where the second main surface 81b of the substrate 81 exists, and is disposed in a range where the wiring pattern of the substrate 81 does not exist. The tip surface of the first contact portion 111 is a substantially flat surface. Therefore, the tip surface of the first contact portion 111 is in surface contact with the second main surface 81b, but is not in contact with the wiring pattern of the substrate 81. As a result, the first contact portion 111 contacts the second main surface 81b and positions the lens portion 91 in the thickness direction of the substrate 81. This stabilizes the optical distance from the chip LED 84 to the lens portion 91. This allows the lens portion 91 to stably exhibit the expected light-collecting characteristics.

[0060] The second contact portion 112 protrudes toward the substrate 81. The second contact portion 112 protrudes by a larger amount than the first contact portion 111. The second contact portion 112 is disposed at a position where the first recess 81d is located on the end face 81c of the substrate 81 in the surface direction of the substrate 81. The side surface of the second contact portion 112 is a substantially arcuate surface and has a shape that matches the shape of the inner surface of the first recess 81d. Therefore, the second contact portion 112 fits into the first recess 81d. Furthermore, the side surface of the second contact portion 112 is in surface contact with the inner surface of the first recess 81d. As a result, the second contact portion 112 contacts the end face 81c and positions the lens portion 91 in the surface direction of the substrate 81. This prevents the chip LED 84 from deviating from the optical axis 91c of the lens portion 91. This allows the lens portion 91 to stably exhibit the expected light-collecting characteristics. Furthermore, the position where the first contact portion 111 is disposed can be prevented from moving and the first contact portion 111 can be prevented from coming into contact with the wiring pattern of the substrate 81.

[0061] The light-shielding cover 86 houses the chip LEDs 84 and the lens 85. The light-shielding cover 86 has a cylindrical shape. Therefore, a housing space 86a is formed in the light-shielding cover 86. The housed chip LEDs 84 and the lens 85 are disposed in the housing space 86a. The light-shielding cover 86 has light-shielding properties. As a result, the light-shielding cover 86 blocks a portion of the light rays LR contained in the transmitted light L2 that has passed through the lens portion 91. Therefore, the light-shielding cover 86 adjusts the light distribution characteristics of the emitted light L3 emitted from the light-shielding cover 86. The blocked portion of the light rays LR includes light rays directed toward the cover 32, which is an exterior component that determines the appearance of the vacuum cleaner 1, light rays directed toward a far-distance front region that is significantly further forward of the suction port body than the surface to be cleaned, and light rays directed toward the pipe 21. Including light rays directed toward the cover 32 among the blocked portion of the light rays LR can suppress light leakage of light rays contained in the light L1 emitted by the chip LEDs 84 that passes through the cover 32. Furthermore, since some of the blocked light rays LR include light rays heading toward the far-distance front area and light rays heading toward the pipe 21, it is possible to prevent the far-distance front area and the pipe 21, which do not need to be brightly illuminated, from being brightly illuminated.

[0062] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6 to 9, the light-shielding cover 86 includes a second positioning portion 121. As shown in FIG.

[0063] The second positioning portion 121 comes into contact with the substrate 81 to position the light-shielding cover 86 relative to the substrate 81. In this way, the second positioning portion 121 positions the light-shielding cover 86 relative to the chip LEDs 84 fixed to the substrate 81.

[0064] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6 to 9, the second positioning portion 121 includes a contact portion 132.

[0065] The contact portion 132 protrudes toward the substrate 81. The contact portion 132 is disposed at a position where the second recess 81e of the end face 81c of the substrate 81 is located in the surface direction of the substrate 81. The side surface of the contact portion 132 is a substantially arcuate surface, and has a shape that fits the shape of the inner surface of the second recess 81e. Therefore, the contact portion 132 fits into the second recess 81e. Furthermore, the side surface of the contact portion 132 is in surface contact with the inner surface of the second recess 81e. As a result, the contact portion 132 comes into contact with the end face 81c of the substrate 81 and positions the light-shielding cover 86 in the surface direction of the substrate 81. This allows the light-shielding cover 86 to stably exhibit the expected ability to adjust the light distribution characteristics.

[0066] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6 to 9, the light-shielding cover 86 includes a protrusion receiver 133. As shown in FIG.

[0067] The protrusion receiver 133 receives a protrusion provided on the lens 85. The protrusion consists of a part of the first contact portion 111 and the second contact portion 112, and protrudes from the lens 85 in the surface direction of the substrate 81. The protrusion fits into the protrusion receiver 133. As a result, the protrusion receiver 133 positions the lens 85 with respect to the light-shielding cover 86 in the surface direction of the substrate 81. The protrusion may have a structure independent of the part of the first contact portion 111 and the second contact portion 112. Without the protrusion receiver 133, the lens 85 would rotate in the surface direction of the substrate 81 around the second contact portion 112 as an axis, even if the second contact portion 112 was fitted into the first recess 81d, making it impossible to accurately position the lens 85 with respect to the substrate 81. Cooperation between the light-shielding cover 86 and the substrate 81 allows accurate positioning of the lens 85 with respect to the substrate 81. From another perspective, it can be said that the cooperation of the substrate 81 and the lens 85 allows the positioning of the light-shielding cover 86 relative to the substrate 81 to be accurately performed. From yet another perspective, it can be said that the cooperation of the light-shielding cover 86 and the lens 85 allows the positioning of the substrate 81 relative to the light-shielding cover 86 to be accurately performed.

[0068] The light-shielding cover 86 has an outer peripheral surface 86b. When viewed in the optical axis direction parallel to the optical axis 91c of the lens 85, the light-shielding cover 86 has a shape similar to the shape of the substrate 81. Therefore, the rear end of the outer peripheral surface 86b is arranged along the end surface 81c of the substrate 81. The reason why the rear end of the outer peripheral surface 86b can be arranged along the end surface 81c of the substrate 81 is that the positioning described above eliminates the need for claws to fix the substrate 81 to the light-shielding cover 86. Furthermore, the rear end surface of the light-shielding cover 86 is in surface contact with the second main surface 81b but does not come into contact with the wiring pattern of the substrate 81.

[0069] 1.6 Spread of emitted light As shown in FIG. 4, the optical axis 91c of the lens unit 91 extends in a direction tilted upward from the front. The most upwardly propagating ray LRU included in the output light L3 emitted by the light-shielding cover 86 propagates in a direction tilted upward by an angle θU from the direction in which the optical axis 91c of the lens unit 91 extends. The most downwardly propagating ray LRL included in the output light L3 propagates in a direction tilted downward by an angle θL from the direction in which the optical axis 91c extends. The angle θU is smaller than the angle θL. Therefore, the spread of the output light L3 from the optical axis 91c toward the side opposite the pipe 21 is smaller than the spread of the output light L3 from the optical axis 91c toward the side in which the pipe 21 is located. The direction in which the ray LRL propagates is the same as the forward direction in which the pipe 21 extends or a direction intermediate between the forward direction in which the pipe 21 extends and the direction in which the optical axis 91c extends.

[0070] Generally, the intensity of light L1 emitted from the chip LED 84 is strongest in a direction perpendicular to the light-emitting surface, i.e., in the direction of the optical axis 91c. The intensity weakens as the light tilts outward from the optical axis 91c, and becomes zero at an inclination angle of 90 degrees. Therefore, in order to effectively utilize the light L1 emitted from the chip LED 84, it is desirable to utilize light in a direction with an inclination angle that is half or less the intensity of the light in the direction of the optical axis 91c, for example.

[0071] Of the light L1 emitted from the chip LEDs 84, it is preferable that the light that passes through the lens portion 91 and is emitted without being blocked by the light-shielding cover 86 includes at least a portion of the light that has an inclination angle that is equal to or less than half the intensity of the light L1 emitted from the chip LEDs 84 in the direction of the optical axis 91c. This makes it possible to effectively utilize the light L1 that has a high intensity emitted from the chip LEDs 84. For example, it is preferable that the light that passes through the lens portion 91 and is emitted in the direction of the light ray LRL without being blocked by the light-shielding cover 86 has an intensity that is equal to or less than half the intensity of the light L1 emitted from the chip LEDs 84 in the direction of the optical axis 91c.

[0072] FIG. 10 is a side view schematically illustrating the vacuum cleaner of the first embodiment in use.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 10 , in most cases, a user cleans the surface S to be cleaned with the pipe 21 extending in a direction inclined from the vertical upward direction toward the rear of the surface to be cleaned. Therefore, the distance from the lighting device 71 to the surface S to be cleaned increases as the distance moves toward the front of the surface to be cleaned. Therefore, if the spread of the emitted light L3 from the optical axis 91c toward the side opposite the pipe 21 is not limited (if the light-shielding cover 86 is not used for blocking), the spread of the emitted light L3 increases as the distance moves toward the front of the surface to be cleaned. In contrast, if the spread of the emitted light L3 from the optical axis 91c toward the side opposite the pipe 21 is limited (if the light-shielding cover 86 is used for blocking), the spread of the emitted light L3 can be prevented from increasing as the distance moves toward the front of the surface to be cleaned. This allows for concentrated, bright illumination of a short-distance front area of ​​the surface to be cleaned that is slightly forward of the suction port body 141, which is located on the extension line of the pipe 21 and that needs to be brightly illuminated. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent emitted light L3 from reaching the eyes of a person standing in front of suction inlet body 141 on the surface to be cleaned.

[0074] 1.7 Elimination of screws and nails In the lighting unit 25, the substrate 81, the lens 85, and the light-shielding cover 86 are stacked in the optical axis direction parallel to the optical axis 91c of the lens portion 91 to form a stack of the substrate 81, the lens 85, and the light-shielding cover 86. The holder 72 has a shape that matches the shape of the stack that has been formed, and fits into the formed stack. Therefore, the holder 72 holds the substrate 81, the lens 85, and the light-shielding cover 86 without using screws or claws.

[0075] When the substrate 81 is fixed using screws, screw holes through which the screws pass are formed in the substrate 81. This increases the size of the substrate 81. When the substrate 81 is fixed using claws, the claws are provided on the holder 72 or the light-shielding cover 86. This increases the size of the illumination unit 25 in the planar direction of the substrate 81. In contrast, when the substrate 81, lens 85, and light-shielding cover 86 are held by the holder 72 without using screws or claws, the illumination unit 25 can be made smaller. This prevents the second case 24 from protruding upward. The illumination unit 25 is fixed to the member 31 with screws.

[0076] 1.8 Reinforcement of the second case 4 to 9, the holder 72 includes a first rib 151 and a second rib 152. The light-shielding cover 86 includes a third rib 153.

[0077] The first rib 151 and the third rib 153 protrude upward. The tip surfaces of the first rib 151 and the third rib 153 contact the inner surface of the case component 52 of the cover 32. Therefore, the first rib 151 and the third rib 153 constitute a first contact portion that contacts the case component 52 of the cover 32. As a result, the first contact portion formed by the first rib 151 and the third rib 153 contacts the exterior of the vacuum cleaner body 157 in which the lighting unit 25 is incorporated. The exterior with which the first contact portion contacts is a portion exposed to the outside of the vacuum cleaner 1. A structure other than a rib may constitute the first contact portion. For example, a boss may constitute the first contact portion. The third rib 153 contacts the case component 52 of the cover 32, thereby restricting movement of the lighting device 71 in the removal direction.

[0078] The second rib 152 protrudes downward from the holder 72. The second rib 152 is a pair of ribs consisting of a left-side rib that protrudes continuously from the left side of the holder 72 and a right-side rib that protrudes continuously from the right side of the holder 72. The tip surface of the second rib 152 contacts the inner surface of the case component 42 of the member 31. Therefore, the second rib 152 constitutes a second contact portion that contacts the case component 42 of the member 31. As a result, the second contact portion formed by the second rib 152 contacts the internal structure of the vacuum cleaner main body 157 in which the lighting unit 25 is incorporated. The internal structure with which the second contact portion contacts is a portion hidden by the exterior and not exposed to the outside of the vacuum cleaner 1. A structure other than a rib may constitute the second contact portion. For example, a boss may constitute the second contact portion. Note that a rectangular protrusion protruding upward from the inner surface of the case component 42 can be accommodated in the space between the pair of ribs.

[0079] The first rib 151, the second rib 152, and the third rib 153 form an internal framework of the second case 24 that reduces cavities that create room for deformation of the second case 24, and reinforces the second case 24. This makes it possible to prevent damage to the second case 24, which protrudes upward and is therefore susceptible to damage when the vacuum cleaner 1 is tipped over, for example.

[0080] The holder 72 and the light-shielding cover 86 are made by molding resin. Therefore, the first rib 151 and the second rib 152 can be easily formed when the holder 72 is made by molding resin. The third rib 153 can be easily formed when the light-shielding cover 86 is made by molding resin.

[0081] 1.9 Lead Wire Routing 11 and 12 are bottom views each schematically illustrating a first structural example and a second structural example of the lighting unit provided in the vacuum cleaner of the first embodiment.

[0082] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the holder 72 includes a first slit forming plate 161 and a second slit forming plate 162 .

[0083] The first slit-forming plate 161 and the second slit-forming plate 162 are arranged perpendicular to the up-down direction and spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction. A groove 171 is formed in the right end of the first slit-forming plate 161. A slit 172 is formed between the left end of the first slit-forming plate 161 and the right end of the second slit-forming plate 162. A groove 173 is formed in the left end of the second slit-forming plate 162.

[0084] 11, the lead wire 82 extends from the connector 83 to a power source (not shown) via the groove 171 and the slit 172. Also, as shown in FIG. 12, the lead wire 82 extends from the connector 83 to a power source (not shown) via the groove 173 and the slit 172, and is wound around the second slit-forming plate 162.

[0085] As a result, the first slit-forming plate 161 and the second slit-forming plate 162 constitute a restricting portion that restricts the routing path of the lead wire 82 to a path that passes through the groove 171 and the slit 172. The restricting portion may be constituted by a structure other than the first slit-forming plate 161 and the second slit-forming plate 162. For example, the restricting portion may be constituted by a boss that forms a gap through which the lead wire can pass, a plate formed with a through-hole through which the lead wire can pass, or the like.

[0086] By limiting the routing path of the lead wire 82 to a path that passes through the groove 171 and the slit 172, it is possible to prevent the lead wire 82 from being pinched between the member 31 and the cover 32 and hindering the assembly of the vacuum cleaner 1. This advantage is particularly noticeable when the lead wire 82 is given a sufficient length to facilitate the assembly of the vacuum cleaner 1.

[0087] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and may be replaced with a configuration that is substantially the same as the configuration shown in the above-described embodiments, a configuration that has the same effect, or a configuration that can achieve the same purpose. [Explanation of symbols]

[0088] 1 vacuum cleaner 11 Suction / exhaust section 12 Dust collection unit 13 Battery 21 Pipe 21a Wind path 21b Suction port 21c outlet 22 Case 1 22a Wind path 22b Suction port 22c outlet 23 Electric suction machine 24 Second Case 24a Containment Space 24b opening 25 lighting units 26 Windows 26a First principal surface 26b Second main surface 27 Handle 28 Control section 31 Components 32 Cover 41 Pipe structure 42 Case Components 43 Handle components 52 Case component 53 Handle components 61 Dust cup 61a Wind path 61b Suction port 61c outlet 62 Cyclone 63 filters 71 Lighting equipment 72 Holder 81 Circuit Board 81a first principal surface 81b Second principal surface 81c end face 81d First recess 81e Second recess 82 Lead wire 83 Connector 84 Chip Light Emitting Diode (LED) 85 Lens 86 Light-shielding cover 86a Containment Space 91 Lens section 91a Incidence plane 91b Output surface 91c optical axis 92 Lens frame 101 first positioning portion 111 first contact part 112 second contact part 121 Second positioning part 132 Contact part 133 Protrusion holder 141 Suction port body 151 First Rib 152 Second Rib 153 Third Rib 157 Vacuum cleaner body 161 First slit forming plate 162 Second slit forming plate 171 Groove L1 light L2 transmitted light L3 output light LRU ray LRL rays LR Some rays S Surface to be cleaned

Claims

1. A substrate; a chip light emitting element mounted on the substrate and emitting light having a first light distribution angle; a lens including: a lens portion that transmits the light and emits transmitted light having a second light distribution angle smaller than the first light distribution angle; and a positioning portion that contacts the substrate and positions the lens portion with respect to the chip light emitting element; a light-shielding cover that houses the chip light-emitting element and the lens and blocks a portion of the light rays included in the transmitted light; A lighting device for a vacuum cleaner comprising:

2. the substrate has a main surface and an end surface having a first recess formed therein; The chip light emitting element is disposed on the main surface, The positioning portion includes a first contact portion that contacts the main surface and positions the lens portion in the thickness direction of the substrate, and a second contact portion that fits into the first recess and contacts the end face and positions the lens portion in the surface direction of the substrate.

2. The lighting device for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 1.

3. the positioning portion is a first positioning portion, The light-shielding cover includes a second positioning portion that contacts the substrate and positions the light-shielding cover relative to the chip light-emitting element.

3. The lighting device for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 2.

4. the substrate has an end surface on which a second recess is formed, The second positioning portion has a contact portion that fits into the second recess and contacts the end surface.

4. The lighting device for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 3.

5. the light-shielding cover includes a projection receiver; The lens has a protrusion that protrudes in the surface direction of the substrate and fits into the protrusion receiver.

5. The lighting device for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 4.

6. the substrate has an end surface; The light-shielding cover has an outer peripheral surface with a rear end that is positioned along the end surface.

6. The lighting device for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 5.

7. A vacuum cleaner lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 6; a holder that is engaged with the vacuum cleaner lighting device and holds the vacuum cleaner lighting device; A lighting unit for a vacuum cleaner.

8. The vacuum cleaner lighting unit according to claim 7; a vacuum cleaner body having an exterior and an internal structure; Equipped with the vacuum cleaner lighting unit is disposed between the exterior and the internal structure; The vacuum cleaner lighting unit includes a first contact portion that contacts the exterior and a second contact portion that contacts the internal structure. Vacuum cleaner.

9. a lead wire for supplying a current to the chip light emitting element; The holder includes a restricting portion that restricts the routing path of the lead wire.

9. The vacuum cleaner of claim 8.

10. It is equipped with a pipe through which air flows to suck up the garbage. The part of the light rays includes light rays directed toward the pipe.

9. The vacuum cleaner of claim 8.

11. It is equipped with a pipe through which air flows to suck up the garbage. the lens has an optical axis extending in a direction inclined from the direction in which the pipe extends, The light-shielding cover allows the emitted light to be emitted, and makes the spread of the emitted light from the optical axis toward the side opposite to the side where the pipe is located smaller than the spread of the emitted light from the optical axis toward the side where the pipe is located.

9. The vacuum cleaner of claim 8.

12. Of the light emitted from the chip light-emitting element, the light that passes through the lens portion and is emitted without being blocked by the light-shielding cover includes at least a portion of the light that is half or less of the intensity of the light in the optical axis direction of the light emitted from the chip light-emitting element.

3. The lighting device for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 1 or 2.

13. The lens portion does not focus the transmitted light.

3. The lighting device for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 1 or 2.

14. The positioning portion is a first positioning portion, and the light-shielding cover includes a second positioning portion that contacts the substrate and positions the light-shielding cover relative to the chip light-emitting element; or the light-shielding cover includes a protrusion receiver, and the lens includes a protrusion that protrudes in a surface direction of the substrate and fits into the protrusion receiver; or the substrate has an end surface, and the light-shielding cover has an outer peripheral surface with a rear end disposed along the end surface; 2. The lighting device for a vacuum cleaner according to claim 1.

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