Electric cleaning device

Abstract

To provide a vacuum cleaner capable of wiping with water, and not discoloring or damaging a flooring material with a wet sweeping member; and to provide an electric cleaning device.SOLUTION: A vacuum cleaner 2, which is a vacuum cleaner 2 capable of wiping, with water, a surface f to be cleaned with a wiping member 71 containing moisture, includes a wiping member fitting part 72 provided on a body 31, and to / from which the wiping member 71 can be attached / detached, and a floor separation mechanism 75 for separating the wiping member 71 from the surface f to be cleaned, when the body 31 is stopped on the surface f to be cleaned.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner and a vacuum cleaning device. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Automatic vacuum cleaners are known that include a wiper member wound around the outer periphery of a roller member, and that wipe surfaces to be cleaned with the wiper member moistened with water. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2003-502086 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] If a wiping member wet with water is left in contact with a hygroscopic floor material such as tatami mats or wooden floors, the floor material may absorb excessive moisture or the wax applied to the floor material may be removed. If this situation is left unattended, there is a risk that the floor material may become discolored or damaged.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention proposes a vacuum cleaner and a vacuum cleaner device that can be used for wet mopping and that do not discolor or damage floor materials with a wet wiping member. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, an electric cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a vacuum cleaner capable of wet-wiping a surface to be cleaned with a wiping member containing moisture, and a charging stand capable of charging the vacuum cleaner. The vacuum cleaner includes a main structure having a suction port on its bottom surface through which a negative suction pressure acts, a plurality of drive wheels capable of contacting the surface to be cleaned, driven wheels that support the main structure on the surface to be cleaned together with the drive wheels, and a wiping member attachment portion provided on the main structure to which the wiping member can be attached and detached. ,of the charging stand has a base on which all or part of the vacuum cleaner rides, the drive wheels are disposed rearward of the driven wheels in the forward direction of the main structure, and the wiping member attachment portion is disposed rearward of the suction port and the drive wheels, vacuum cleaner drives the drive wheels Before Climb onto the pedestal By this, the cleaning surface and the space provided between the base and the cleaning member When the cleaning member is moved away from the surface to be cleaned and the base to promote drying, and the wiping member is moved away from the surface to be cleaned and the base in a state where the vacuum cleaner is placed on the base, to , the above Multiple The driving wheel and the driven wheel are mounted on the base. Stably ground do . [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of an electric cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a system configuration diagram of an operation control system including an electric cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a right side view of the electric vacuum cleaner according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the electric vacuum cleaner according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] 1 is a block diagram of an electric cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic diagram of a first example of a floor-elevating mechanism of a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a second example of a floor-elevating mechanism of the vacuum cleaner according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a third example of a floor-elevating mechanism of the vacuum cleaner according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a fourth example of a floor-elevating mechanism of the vacuum cleaner according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 10 is a schematic diagram of a second example of a station of an electric cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a third example of a station of an electric cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] An embodiment of an electric cleaning device according to the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 11. Note that the same or corresponding components are denoted by the same reference numerals throughout the drawings.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an electric cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] As shown in FIG. 1, the electric cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment includes an electric vacuum cleaner 2 and a station 3 to which the electric vacuum cleaner 2 can be connected and disconnected.

[0012] The vacuum cleaner 2 is a so-called autonomous vacuum cleaner, or robot cleaner. The vacuum cleaner 2 moves autonomously by consuming power from the installed secondary battery 6. The vacuum cleaner 2 moves along the surface to be cleaned f, that is, the floor, of the area to be cleaned A, which is the cleaning location within the living room. The vacuum cleaner 2 moves around the surface to be cleaned f of the area to be cleaned A to clean. The vacuum cleaner 2 moves comprehensively across the area to be cleaned A to clean. When the vacuum cleaner 2 has finished cleaning the surface to be cleaned f, it returns autonomously to the station 3 (also called "homing") and waits for the next cleaning operation.

[0013] The vacuum cleaner 2 may be a non-autonomous type that can be connected to and stored in the station 3, such as a canister type, an upright type, a stick type, or a handheld type.

[0014] The station 3 can be installed on a surface f to be cleaned in a living room. The vacuum cleaner 2 can be smoothly connected to and disconnected from the station 3. The station 3 also functions as a so-called charging station. In other words, the station 3 is a charging station that can charge the secondary battery 6 of the vacuum cleaner 2. The station 3 includes a power cord 7 that conducts power from a commercial AC power source, and a charging circuit 8 that converts the AC voltage supplied via the power cord 7 and supplies DC voltage to the secondary battery 6.

[0015] After returning to station 3, vacuum cleaner 2 charges secondary battery 6 while waiting for the next cleaning operation. This saves the user the trouble of having to charge the vacuum cleaner 2, and allows the vacuum cleaner 2 to respond to unexpected cleaning operations requested by the user.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a system configuration diagram of an operation control system including an electric cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 2, the electric cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment is communicatively connected to an operation control system 11.

[0018] The operation control system 11 includes a server 13 communicatively connected to an electric communication network 12. The operation control system 11 establishes a communication line for bidirectional communication of information between a remote control terminal 15 and the vacuum cleaner 2. The operation control system 11 also establishes a communication line for bidirectional communication of information between an on-premises terminal 16 and the vacuum cleaner 2. The remote control terminal 15 and the on-premises terminal 16 are collectively referred to as an operation terminal 17. The operation terminal 17 is an information terminal. Through the operation control system 11, the vacuum cleaner 2 improves ease of use (convenience) for the user, such as simplicity, ease of operation, and ease of use.

[0019] The telecommunications network 12 includes an external network 18 , a local area network 19 , and a relay communication device 21 that relays information between the local area network 19 and the external network 18 .

[0020] The local area communication network 19 is a wireless or wired electric communication network that includes relay communication equipment 21. The vacuum cleaner 2 and the local area terminal 16 are communicatively connected to the local area communication network 19. The local area communication network 19 is a so-called intranet. The local area communication network 19 provides the user with an extremely convenient communication environment.

[0021] External network 18 includes the Internet 22. Relay communication device 21, server 13, and remote control terminal 15 are connected to Internet 22 via a public telephone network, a mobile phone network, or the like. By using Internet 22 as an intermediary, operation control system 11 provides the user with an extremely simple communication environment between vacuum cleaner 2 and remote control terminal 15.

[0022] Server 13 mediates information between vacuum cleaner 2 and remote control terminal 15. Server 13 communicates with a large number of vacuum cleaners 2 via the Internet 22. Server 13 assigns an identifier to each vacuum cleaner 2. A user of vacuum cleaner 2 uses the identifier provided by server 13 to establish two-way communication between remote control terminal 15 and the vacuum cleaner 2 at home, or between remote control terminal 15 and the vacuum cleaner 2 owned by the user.

[0023] Remote control terminal 15 is connected to Internet 22 via a public wireless line or a mobile phone line. Remote control terminal 15 communicates bidirectionally with server 13. Remote control terminal 15 accepts input of operation instructions, such as an instruction to start or stop the cleaning operation of vacuum cleaner 2. These operation instructions, such as an instruction to start or stop the cleaning operation, are transmitted to vacuum cleaner 2 via a communication line. Remote control terminal 15 also obtains information notifying the status of vacuum cleaner 2, such as whether the vacuum cleaner is running, paused, or stopped, from server 13, and outputs the status of vacuum cleaner 2 on a screen. Operation control system 11 enables remote control terminal 15 to transmit information including commands to vacuum cleaner 2 at home, and enables vacuum cleaner 2 to receive information including information indicating the status of vacuum cleaner 2 from remote control terminal 15. In other words, operation control system 11 can provide an environment in which vacuum cleaner 2 at home can be operated from remote control terminal 15 while away from home. For example, while the user is away from home, the user can operate the vacuum cleaner 2 to clean the home at the appropriate time.

[0024] FIG. 3 is a right side view of the electric vacuum cleaner according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the vacuum cleaner according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] 3 and 4, the solid arrow F indicates the forward direction of the vacuum cleaner 2.

[0027] As shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 in addition to Fig. 1, the vacuum cleaner 2 according to this embodiment has multiple functions, including suction cleaning, which uses negative pressure to suck up dust on the surface to be cleaned f, wiping the surface to be cleaned f, and spraying a solution onto the surface to be cleaned f or the area to be cleaned A. The solution to be sprayed is, for example, an aromatic, a deodorizer, electrolyzed water containing hypochlorous acid with a disinfecting effect, or water for humidification. In this embodiment, a case where electrolyzed water containing hypochlorous acid is used as the solution will be specifically described. Note that it is sufficient for the vacuum cleaner 2 to be able to perform at least two of the multiple functions.

[0028] The vacuum cleaner 2 comprises a main body 31, a moving unit 32 that generates a force to move the vacuum cleaner 2, a cleaning unit 33 that has a suction cleaning function and a wiping cleaning function, a detection unit 35 that detects objects to be detected around the vacuum cleaner 2, a control unit 36 ​​that controls the moving unit 32, the cleaning unit 33, and the detection unit 35 to control the operation of the vacuum cleaner 2, and a secondary battery 6 that supplies power to each part of the vacuum cleaner 2, including the moving unit 32, the cleaning unit 33, the detection unit 35, and the control unit 36.

[0029] The electric vacuum cleaner 2 also includes a storage tank 37 provided in the main body 31 for storing water, an electrolyzed water generating device 38 that electrolyzes the water stored in the storage tank 37 to generate electrolyzed water, a first supply unit 41 that supplies the electrolyzed water stored in the storage tank 37 to the outside of the main body 31, and a second supply unit 42 that supplies the electrolyzed water stored in the storage tank 37 into the main body 31.

[0030] The main body 31 has a flat cylindrical shape, in other words, a disk shape. The main body 31, which is substantially circular in plan view, can reduce the turning radius during turning compared to other shapes. In plan view, the main body 31 may have a square shape or a constant width figure, such as a Reuleaux triangle, whose diametric width is always constant.

[0031] The main body 31 includes a main body case 51 made of, for example, synthetic resin, and a bumper 52 provided on the side of the main body case 51 .

[0032] The main body case 51 and the storage tank 37 cooperate to define the outline of the main body 31 in a plan view. In this embodiment, the main body case 51 and the storage tank 37 have arc-shaped outlines cut by chords in a plan view. The arc-shaped outline of the main body case 51 and the arc-shaped outline of the storage tank 37 combine with each other at their respective chords to form the circular outline of the main body 31. Even if the main body 31 has a shape other than a circle, the outline of the main body case 51 and the outline of the storage tank 37 similarly combine with each other to form the outline of the main body 31. Note that it is preferable that the storage tank 37 be located inside the trajectory formed by the outline of the main body case 51 when the main body 31 is turned (spin turn, neutral turn, counter-rotation turn).

[0033] The height of the main body case 51 and the height of the storage tank 37 are substantially the same. However, the height of the main body case 51 and the height of the storage tank 37 may be different. For example, the height of the storage tank 37 may be higher than the height of the main body case 51, so that the storage tank 37 protrudes upward. Alternatively, the height of the storage tank 37 may be lower than the height of the main body case 51, so that the storage tank 37 is recessed. Furthermore, the height of the storage tank 37 may be lower than the height of the main body case 51, so that the storage tank 37 is mounted on the upper surface of the main body case 51. In such a case, the upper surface of the main body case 51 may have a stepped portion between the portion where the storage tank 37 is mounted and the other portions. Furthermore, when the storage tank 37 is mounted on the main body case 51, it is preferable that the heights of the upper surfaces of the storage tank 37 and the upper surface of the main body case 51 are substantially the same.

[0034] The moving part 32 is provided with a plurality of drive wheels 55 that can come into contact with the surface to be cleaned f, a plurality of electric motors 56 that individually drive each of the drive wheels 55, and driven wheels 57 that, together with the drive wheels 55, support the main body 31 on the surface to be cleaned f.

[0035] Each drive wheel 55 transmits a force that moves the main body 31 to the surface f to be cleaned. Each drive wheel 55 rotates around an axis extending in the width direction of the main body 31, i.e., in the left-right width direction. The multiple drive wheels 55 include at least one pair of drive wheels 55. The rotation axes of the pair of drive wheels 55 are arranged substantially on the same line. The pair of drive wheels 55 enable the vacuum cleaner 2 to move straight and turn. The drive wheels 55 are pressed against the surface f to be cleaned by a suspension device, or so-called suspension. The vacuum cleaner 2 may be provided with caterpillars instead of the drive wheels 55.

[0036] Each electric motor 56 independently drives each drive wheel 55. The vacuum cleaner 2 moves straight by rotating the left and right drive wheels 55 in the same direction, and turns by rotating the left and right drive wheels 55 in different directions. Moving straight includes moving forward and backward. Turning includes turning right and turning left. The vacuum cleaner 2 can also adjust the forward or backward speed by increasing or decreasing the power of the left and right drive wheels 55, and can adjust the turning radius by varying the power of the left and right drive wheels 55.

[0037] Idler wheels 57 are located at the front and approximately the center in the width direction of the lower part of main body 31. Idler wheels 57 are circular rotating bodies, such as casters. Idler wheels 57 easily change direction to follow the forward movement, backward movement, and turning of vacuum cleaner 2, stabilizing the traveling posture of vacuum cleaner 2. Note that the center of gravity of vacuum cleaner 2 supported by drive wheels 55 and driven wheels 57 is preferably located inside the triangle formed by the pair of drive wheels 55 and driven wheels 57. This allows vacuum cleaner 2 to move more stably.

[0038] Cleaning unit 33 cleans surface f to be cleaned below main body 31. More specifically, cleaning unit 33 cleans surface f to be cleaned directly below and around main body 31. Cleaning unit 33 includes suction cleaning unit 58 that generates negative suction pressure to suck in dust from surface f to be cleaned, and wiping cleaning unit 59 that wipes or polishes surface f to be cleaned below main body 31.

[0039] Suction cleaning unit 58 performs a suction cleaning function and includes suction port 61 provided on the bottom surface of main body 31, rotating brush 62 arranged in suction port 61, brush motor 63 that rotates rotating brush 62, dust container 65 provided in main body 31 as a dust collection unit, and electric blower 66 housed within main body 31 and fluidly connected to dust container 65.

[0040] The air passage that runs from suction port 61 through dust container 65 to the suction side of electric blower 66 is suction air passage 67 that is fluidly connected to the suction side of electric blower 66. Suction air passage 67 includes upstream air passage 67u that runs from suction port 61 to dust container 65 and downstream air passage 67d that runs from dust container 65 to electric blower 66.

[0041] The air passage from the exhaust side of electric blower 66 to the exhaust port of main body 31 is exhaust air passage 68, which is fluidly connected to the discharge side of electric blower 66. The exhaust air of electric blower 66 is exhausted to the outside of main body 31 through exhaust air passage 68.

[0042] Suction port 61 sucks in dust along with air due to the negative suction pressure generated by electric blower 66. Suction port 61 is located further forward in the forward direction F than wiping part 59. Suction port 61 extends in the width direction of main body 31. In other words, the opening width of suction port 61 in the left-right direction is greater than the opening width of suction port 61 in the front-rear direction. Because the bottom surface of main body 31 faces and opposes surface f to be cleaned during autonomous movement, suction port 61 can easily suck in dust on surface f to be cleaned or dust scraped up from surface f by rotating brush 62.

[0043] The rotation center line of the rotating brush 62 is oriented in the width direction of the vacuum cleaner 2. When the vacuum cleaner 2 is placed movably on the surface f to be cleaned, the rotating brush 62 comes into contact with the surface f to be cleaned. Therefore, the rotating brush 62, which is driven to rotate, stirs up dust on the surface f to be cleaned. The stirred-up dust is efficiently sucked into the suction port 61.

[0044] The brush motor 63 rotates the rotating brush 62 in a forward or reverse direction. The forward rotation direction of the rotating brush 62 is a rotation direction that assists the driving force (propulsion force) of the vacuum cleaner 2 when moving forward. The reverse rotation direction of the rotating brush 62 is a rotation direction that assists the driving force (propulsion force) of the vacuum cleaner 2 when moving backward.

[0045] The dust container 65 is part of the intake air duct 67. The dust container 65 accumulates dust sucked into the intake port 61 by the negative intake pressure generated by the electric blower 66. The dust container 65 is a separation device that accumulates dust by using a filter that filters and collects dust, or by inertial separation such as centrifugal separation (cyclone separation) or linear separation (a separation method that separates dust from air by utilizing the difference in inertial force between the air and dust moving in a linear direction). The dust container 65 is detachable from the main body 31. The dust container 65 has an openable and closable lid. A user can remove the dust container 65 from the main body 31 and open the lid of the dust container 65 to easily dispose of the dust accumulated in the dust container 65 or to clean or wash the dust container 65.

[0046] The electric blower 66 is driven by consuming power from the secondary battery 6. The electric blower 66 draws air from the dust container 65 to generate a negative suction pressure. The negative suction pressure generated in the dust container 65 acts on the suction port 61. The main body 31 has an exhaust port through which exhaust air from the electric blower 66 flows out of the main body 31.

[0047] The wiping unit 59 performs the wiping function. The wiping unit 59 is located at the bottom of the main body 31, behind the suction port 61. The wiping unit 59 may be located at the bottom of the main body case 51, or at the bottom of the storage tank 37 that cooperates with the main body case 51 to define the outline of the main body 31. In other words, the main body case 51 or the storage tank 37 corresponds to the main structure on which the wiping unit 59 is located.

[0048] The wiping unit 59 wipes, for example, the surface f to be cleaned below the main body 31. The wiping unit 59 includes a wiping member attachment part 72 to which the wiping member 71 can be attached and detached, and the wiping member 71 itself.

[0049] In the forward direction of the vacuum cleaner 2 (solid arrow F in Figure 2), the suction port 61 and the wiping member 71 are aligned front to back, and the suction port 61 is positioned in front of the wiping member 71. Therefore, when the vacuum cleaner 2 moves forward, the suction port 61 moves ahead of the wiping member 71. Therefore, when the suction cleaning unit 58 and the wiping unit 59 are functioning simultaneously, the wiping unit 59 wipes the surface to be cleaned after the dust has been removed by the suction cleaning unit 58.

[0050] The wiping member attachment portion 72 is a base to which the sheet-shaped wiping member 71 is attached using a hook-and-loop fastener, or the sheet-shaped wiping member 71 is wrapped around it, or a part of the wiping member 71 is inserted into an insertion port. The wiping member attachment portion 72 brings the wiping member 71 into contact with the surface f to be cleaned when the vacuum cleaner 2 is placed on the surface f to be cleaned. The wiping member attachment portion 72 itself may also be detachable from the vacuum cleaner 2.

[0051] The wiping member 71 is a wiping sheet made of a fiber material such as a woven or nonwoven fabric. The wiping member 71 may be any of a variety of moisture-absorbing cleaning tools, such as a wiper sheet, duster cloth, dustcloth, or mop (a mass of fibers at the tip excluding the handle). The wiping member 71 may be made of natural fibers such as cotton, recycled fibers such as cellulose, synthetic fibers such as polyester fibers, polyamide fibers such as nylon 6, nylon 66, and nylon 46, and polyolefin fibers such as polyethylene and polypropylene. The wiping member 71 may also be a sponge. The wiping member 71 may also include a component made of a superabsorbent polymer (SAP, also known as an absorbent polymer, superabsorbent resin, or polymer absorbent). A wiping member 71 that includes a component made of a superabsorbent polymer can hold a larger amount of electrolyzed water.

[0052] The wiping member 71 can be attached and detached to the bottom surface of the wiping member attachment portion 72. When the vacuum cleaner 2 is placed movably on the surface f to be cleaned, the wiping member 59 comes into contact with the surface f. It is preferable that the wiping member 59 is pressed against the surface f with enough pressure to prevent the drive wheels 55 from spinning freely on the surface f. An elastic member such as foamed resin is provided between the wiping member 59 and the bottom surface of the main body 31. This elastic member presses the wiping member 59 against the surface f to be cleaned with uniform pressure.

[0053] The wiping member 71 is also one aspect of the first supply unit 41 that supplies electrolyzed water to the outside of the main body 31. In other words, the vacuum cleaner 2 can wet-mop the surface f to be cleaned with the wet wiping member 71. The wiping member 71 wets the surface f to be cleaned with electrolyzed water supplied from the electrolyzed water generator 38. The surface f to be cleaned that is wiped with electrolyzed water is sterilized.

[0054] When the electrolyzed water is supplied to the surface f to be cleaned without the wiping member 71, the wiping member 71 can also wipe off the electrolyzed water sprayed on the surface f to be cleaned.

[0055] That is, the wiping member 71 can be used for wet wiping, in which it absorbs electrolyzed water and applies the electrolyzed water to the surface f to be cleaned, or for dry wiping, in which it wipes off the electrolyzed water that has been sprayed on the surface f to be cleaned. In other words, the vacuum cleaner 2 sprays or applies electrolyzed water containing hypochlorous acid to the surface f to be cleaned as it moves, thereby sterilizing the surface f to be cleaned.

[0056] Whether the wiping performed by the wiping member 71 is dry wiping or wet wiping depends on the amount of electrolyzed water sprayed onto the surface f to be cleaned from the electrolyzed water generator 38 and the amount of electrolyzed water supplied from the electrolyzed water generator 38 to the wiping member 71. For example, if the amount of electrolyzed water sprayed on the floor surface is small, the electrolyzed water will evaporate before it can wet the wiping member 71. In such a case, the dry wiping performed by the wiping member 71 will continue. If the amount of electrolyzed water sprayed on the floor surface is large, the electrolyzed water will not evaporate completely and will wet the wiping member 71. In such a case, the dry wiping performed by the wiping member 71 will eventually transition from dry wiping to wet wiping.

[0057] Detection unit 35 detects a detectable object approaching main body 31 as main body 31 moves, or a detectable object coming into contact with main body 31. Detection unit 35 includes a camera unit 81 provided on main body 31 and capturing images of the surroundings of vacuum cleaner 2, a proximity detection unit 82 provided on main body 31 and detecting that main body 31 has approached an object other than vacuum cleaner 2, i.e., a detectable object, and a contact detection unit 83 provided on main body 31 and detecting that main body 31 has come into contact with an object other than vacuum cleaner 2, i.e., a detectable object.

[0058] The camera unit 81 is provided on the front side of the main body 31 and captures an image in front of the vacuum cleaner 2, that is, in the direction of travel when moving forward.

[0059] Instead of or in addition to the camera unit 81, the vacuum cleaner 2 may be provided with a distance measurement device 85 that obtains information about the depth in the imaging range using a different principle from that of a stereo camera.

[0060] The proximity detection unit 82 is, for example, an infrared sensor or an ultrasonic sensor. A proximity detection unit 82 that uses an infrared sensor includes a light-emitting element that emits infrared rays and a light-receiving element that receives the light and converts it into an electrical signal. The proximity detection unit 82 emits infrared rays from the light-emitting element, receives the infrared rays reflected by the object to be detected with the light-receiving element and converts them into electricity. When the converted electricity reaches a certain level, it detects that the object to be detected has approached within a certain distance before the main body 31 comes into contact with the object to be detected. A proximity detection unit 82 that uses an ultrasonic sensor detects the object to be detected using ultrasonic waves instead of infrared rays.

[0061] The contact detection unit 83 is a so-called bumper sensor. The contact detection unit 83 is linked to the bumper 52, which absorbs the impact on the moving main body 31 when it comes into contact with a detected object. When the bumper 52 comes into contact with the detected object, it is displaced so as to be pushed inward of the main body 31. The contact detection unit 83 detects this displacement of the bumper 52 and detects that the main body 31 has come into contact with the detected object. The contact detection unit 83 includes, for example, a microswitch that is turned on and off depending on the displacement of the bumper 52, or an infrared sensor or ultrasonic sensor that measures the amount of displacement of the bumper 52 without contact.

[0062] The secondary battery 6 stores the power consumed by each part of the vacuum cleaner 2, including the moving unit 32, the cleaning unit 33, the detection unit 35, and the control unit 36. The secondary battery 6 supplies power to each part of the vacuum cleaner 2, including the moving unit 32, the cleaning unit 33, the detection unit 35, and the control unit 36. The secondary battery 6 is, for example, a lithium-ion battery, and has a control circuit that controls charging and discharging. This control circuit outputs information related to the charging and discharging of the secondary battery 6 to the control unit 36.

[0063] The storage tank 37 is a container for storing water or salt water. The water stored in the storage tank 37 may be tap water. The storage tank 37 is preferably detachable from the main body 31 to make it easier to supply water. The storage tank 37 has an openable and closable lid. The storage tank 37 can be easily supplied with water or salt water by opening the lid. The storage tank 37 is provided with a water level detector 86 that detects the amount of water in the storage tank 37.

[0064] The electrolyzed water generator 38, for example, electrolyzes water to generate electrolyzed water containing dissolved ozone, or electrolyzes saltwater to generate electrolyzed water containing dissolved hypochlorous acid (HClO). In Japan, the Water Supply Act stipulates that tap water readily available at home contains chlorine. The Japanese Water Supply Act stipulates that the chlorine concentration in tap water must be at least 1 / 10 ppm (parts per million by mass, milligrams per liter) (Article 17, Paragraph 3 of the Enforcement Regulations of the Water Supply Act (Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare Ordinance) based on Article 22 of the Water Supply Act). The electrolyzed water generator 38 can easily generate electrolyzed water containing hypochlorous acid by electrolyzing water containing chlorine, such as tap water in Japan, or saltwater. The electrolyzed water generator 38 includes electrodes 87, including a positive electrode and a negative electrode.

[0065] The electrodes 87 of the electrolyzed water generator 38 are made of a material that does not easily dissolve in water, such as titanium or platinum. To promote electrolysis, the electrodes 87 may carry a platinum group metal such as iridium, platinum, or ruthenium, or an oxide thereof. Chemical species such as hydrogen peroxide, active oxygen, and OH radicals are generated in the electrolyzed water. The electrodes 87 are provided in the storage tank 37.

[0066] The electrolyzed water generator 38 may be a single-chamber type with no partition between the positive and negative electrodes, or a multi-chamber type including a two-chamber type with a partition between the positive and negative electrodes, or a three-chamber type. The single-chamber electrolyzed water generator 38 neutralizes acidic ionized water generated on the positive electrode side and alkaline ionized water generated on the negative electrode side to generate electrolyzed water containing an appropriate concentration of hypochlorous acid. On the other hand, the multi-chamber electrolyzed water generator 38 generates acidic ionized water in the chamber housing the positive electrode and alkaline ionized water in the chamber housing the negative electrode.

[0067] In addition, the multi-chamber electrolyzed water generator 38 may result in uneven usage of the acidic ionized water and alkaline ionized water, resulting in the burden of disposing of the remaining ionized water. The single-chamber electrolyzed water generator 38 does not require the burden of disposing of the remaining ionized water as with the multi-chamber type, and may be more convenient for users than the multi-chamber type.

[0068] Furthermore, if the solution used by the vacuum cleaner 2 is a solution such as an aromatic, a deodorant, or water that does not require electrolysis, the electrolyzed water generator 38 may not be necessary.

[0069] The first supply unit 41 supplies electrolyzed water so that it can be diffused or sprayed into the atmosphere of the surface f to be cleaned and the area A to be cleaned. The first supply unit 41 supplies electrolyzed water to at least one of the wiping member 71, the surface f to be cleaned, and the atmosphere of the area A to be cleaned. The first supply unit 41 includes a first supply mechanism 91 that supplies electrolyzed water from the storage tank 37 to the wiping member 71, a second supply mechanism 92 that supplies electrolyzed water from the storage tank 37 to the surface f to be cleaned, and a third supply mechanism 93 that supplies electrolyzed water from the storage tank 37 to the atmosphere of the main body 31. The first supply unit 41 may include any one of the first supply mechanism 91, the second supply mechanism 92, and the third supply mechanism 93.

[0070] The first supply mechanism 91 includes a first supply port 95 that supplies electrolyzed water to the back surface of the wiping member 71, a first on-off valve 96 that switches the supply and cut-off of electrolyzed water to the first supply port 95, and a first water guide path 99a that guides electrolyzed water to the first supply port 95. The front surface of the wiping member 71 is the surface that contacts the surface to be cleaned f, and the back surface of the wiping member 71 is the surface behind the front surface, i.e., the surface that does not contact the surface to be cleaned f.

[0071] There may be a plurality of first supply ports 95. For example, the first supply ports 95 are preferably arranged in a row in the width direction of the main body 31, i.e., in the width direction of the wiping member 71. The first supply ports 95 arranged in this manner can moisten a wide area of ​​the wiping member 71 with electrolyzed water. Alternatively, the first supply port 95 may be an elongated, flat opening having long sides extending in the width direction of the main body 31.

[0072] The first on-off valve 96 is a so-called electromagnetic valve. By opening the first on-off valve 96, the first supply mechanism 91 supplies electrolyzed water at the height difference between the water level of the electrolyzed water in the storage tank 37 and the first supply port 95, i.e., the hydraulic head difference. The first supply mechanism 91 may be provided with a pump that draws up the electrolyzed water in the storage tank 37 instead of the first on-off valve 96. Furthermore, the first supply mechanism 91 may simply be a flow path, such as a thin tube or an orifice, that discharges the electrolyzed water in the storage tank 37. In such cases, the inner diameter of the thin tube or the diameter of the orifice is appropriately set to obtain the required supply amount of electrolyzed water (supply amount per unit time).

[0073] The second supply mechanism 92 has the function of spraying electrolyzed water onto the surface to be cleaned f. The second supply mechanism 92 includes a second supply port 97 that sprays electrolyzed water onto the surface to be cleaned f, a second on-off valve 98 that supplies and cuts off the supply of electrolyzed water to the second supply port 97, and a second water guide path 99b that guides the electrolyzed water to the second supply port 97.

[0074] The second supply port 97 is, for example, a nozzle capable of spraying electrolyzed water. With the vacuum cleaner 2 placed on the surface f to be cleaned, the second supply port 97 supplies the electrolyzed water to the surface f to be cleaned that is sandwiched between the suction port 61 and the wiping member 71. In other words, with the vacuum cleaner 2 placed on the surface f to be cleaned, the second supply mechanism 92 supplies the electrolyzed water from the second supply port 97 to the surface f to be cleaned that is sandwiched between the suction port 61 and the wiping member 71.

[0075] There may be a plurality of second supply ports 97. For example, the second supply ports 97 are preferably arranged in a row in the width direction of the main body 31, i.e., the width direction of the wiping member 71. The second supply ports 97 arranged in this manner spray electrolyzed water over a wider area as the main body 31 moves forward. The second supply port 97 may also be an elongated, flat nozzle having a long side extending in the width direction of the main body 31.

[0076] The second on-off valve 98 is a so-called electromagnetic valve. By opening the second on-off valve 98, the second supply mechanism 92 supplies electrolyzed water at a level corresponding to the difference in height between the water level of the electrolyzed water in the storage tank 37 and the second supply port 97, i.e., a hydraulic head difference. The second supply mechanism 92 may be provided with a pump that draws up the electrolyzed water in the storage tank 37 instead of the second on-off valve 98. The second supply mechanism 92 may also be simply a flow path for discharging the electrolyzed water in the storage tank 37, such as a capillary tube or an orifice. In such cases, the inner diameter of the capillary tube or the diameter of the orifice is appropriately set to obtain the required supply amount of electrolyzed water (supply amount per unit time).

[0077] The third supply mechanism 93 has a function of spraying electrolyzed water into the atmosphere of the cleaning area A. The third supply mechanism 93 includes a first atomization device 101 that atomizes electrolyzed water and supplies it to the atmosphere around the main body 31, and a third water guide path 99c that guides the electrolyzed water to the first atomization device 101.

[0078] The first atomization device 101 is provided on the top surface of the main body 31. The first atomization device 101 diffuses or scatters atomized electrolytic water into the atmosphere around the main body 31.

[0079] The first atomization device 101 uses various atomization methods, such as a heating method that heats electrolyzed water to atomize it, an ultrasonic method that vibrates electrolyzed water with ultrasonic waves to atomize it, a spray that uses the Venturi effect, for example, a method that atomizes electrolyzed water using a spray bottle, electrostatic atomization that atomizes electrolyzed water using corona discharge, and a water crushing method that disperses electrolyzed water using a high-speed rotating propeller or the like to crush the water molecules. In any of these methods, the first atomization device 101 atomizes electrolyzed water to contain fine particles with a diameter of 100 micrometers or less, and more preferably, atomizes electrolyzed water to contain fine particles with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less.

[0080] The first water conduction path 99a, the second water conduction path 99b, and the third water conduction path 99c may be, for example, pipes connecting the storage tank 37 and the first atomization device 101, or may be ropes or cords that suck up the electrolyzed water in the storage tank 37 by capillary action and guide it to the first atomization device 101. The first water conduction path 99a, the second water conduction path 99b, and the third water conduction path 99c may branch off from other water conduction paths as shown in FIG. 2, or each may be independently connected to the storage tank 37.

[0081] The second supply unit 42 supplies the electrolyzed water stored in the storage tank 37 to the suction airflow duct 67. The second supply unit 42 may supply the electrolyzed water to the upstream airflow duct 67u connecting the suction port 61 and the dust container 65, or may supply the electrolyzed water to the dust container 65, or may supply the electrolyzed water to the downstream airflow duct 67d connecting the dust container 65 and the electric blower 66. In other words, the second supply unit 42 supplies the electrolyzed water stored in the storage tank 37 to at least one of the upstream airflow duct 67u connecting the suction port 61 and the dust container 65, the interior of the dust container 65, and the downstream airflow duct 67d connecting the dust container 65 and the electric blower 66.

[0082] The second supply unit 42 vaporizes electrolyzed water and supplies it to at least one of the upstream air passage 67u connecting the suction port 61 and the dust container 65, the inside of the dust container 65, and the downstream air passage 67d connecting the dust container 65 and the electric blower 66. Therefore, the second supply unit 42 includes a second atomization device 102 that atomizes the electrolyzed water and supplies it to at least one of the upstream air passage 67u, the dust container 65, and the downstream air passage 67d connecting the dust container 65 and the electric blower 66, and a fourth water guide path 99d that guides the electrolyzed water from the storage tank 37 to the second atomization device 102.

[0083] The second atomization device 102 may be exposed to the upstream air passage 67u itself or a space connected to the upstream air passage 67u, or may be exposed to the dust container 65 itself or a space connected to the dust container 65, or may be exposed to the downstream air passage 67d itself or a space connected to the downstream air passage 67d. The second atomization device 102 diffuses or sprays atomized electrolyzed water into at least one of the upstream air passage 67u, the dust container 65, and the downstream air passage 67d.

[0084] Here, the "space connected to the upstream air passage 67u," the "space connected to the dust container 65," and the "space connected to the downstream air passage 67d" include areas where the negative suction pressure generated by the electric blower 66 acts to create sufficient air flow, and also include areas where the negative suction pressure generated by the electric blower 66 acts but does not create sufficient air flow due to the negative suction pressure, causing the flow to stagnate.

[0085] The second atomization device 102 uses various atomization methods, such as a heating method that heats and atomizes electrolyzed water, an ultrasonic method that atomizes electrolyzed water by vibrating it with ultrasound, a spray that uses the Venturi effect, such as a method that atomizes electrolyzed water using a spray bottle, electrostatic atomization that atomizes electrolyzed water using corona discharge, and a water-breaking method that disperses electrolyzed water using a high-speed rotating propeller or the like to break down the water molecules. In any of these methods, the second atomization device 102 atomizes electrolyzed water to contain fine particles with a diameter of 100 micrometers or less, and more preferably to contain fine particles with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less.

[0086] The fourth water conduction path 99d may be, for example, a pipe connecting the storage tank 37 and the second atomization device 102, or may be a rope or cord that sucks up the electrolyzed water in the storage tank 37 by capillary action and guides it to the second atomization device 102. The fourth water conduction path 99d may branch off from another water conduction path as shown in FIG. 3, or the fourth water conduction path 99d may be connected to the storage tank 37 by itself.

[0087] In addition, instead of or in addition to the second atomization device 102, the second supply unit 42 may be provided with a water holding body 105 that vaporizes electrolyzed water in at least one of the upstream air duct 67u connecting the suction port 61 and the dust container 65, the inside of the dust container 65, and the downstream air duct 67d connecting the dust container 65 and the electric blower 66.

[0088] The water holding body 105 is connected to the storage tank 37 via the same fourth water conducting path 99d as the second atomization device 102, or via a different water conducting path. The water holding body 105 absorbs electrolyzed water supplied through the water conducting path and becomes filled with electrolyzed water. A portion of the water holding body 105 is in contact with the electrolyzed water passing through the water conducting path connecting the storage tank 37 and the water holding body 105. A portion of the water holding body 105 may be in direct contact with the electrolyzed water in the storage tank 37 without passing through the water conducting path. The other portion of the water holding body 105 may be exposed to the upstream air duct 67u itself or a space connected to the upstream air duct 67u, the dust container 65 itself or a space connected to the dust container 65, or the downstream air duct 67d itself or a space connected to the downstream air duct 67d.

[0089] Water retention body 105 retains electrolyzed water by its water absorption. Furthermore, water retention body 105 absorbs electrolyzed water from the water-conducting path connecting storage tank 37 and water retention body 105 by its water absorption. In other words, by bringing a water-absorbent member into contact with electrolyzed water, vacuum cleaner 2 supplies electrolyzed water to at least one of upstream air duct 67u connecting suction port 61 and dust container 65, the interior of dust container 65, and downstream air duct 67d connecting dust container 65 and electric blower 66. Water retention body 105 can suck up and move the liquid by capillary action even if the electrolyzed water supply location (upstream air duct 67u, dust container 65, or downstream air duct 67d) is located higher than storage tank 37. By changing the degree and size of water absorption of water retention body 105, the suction force and height can be adjusted, making it possible to avoid oversupply. The water holding body 105 may be disposed below the storage tank 37. In this case, the electrolyzed water is easily supplied to the water holding body 105 by the difference in head.

[0090] Water retention body 105 is, for example, a woven fabric or a nonwoven fabric. The material of water retention body 105 is natural fiber such as cotton, regenerated fiber such as cellulose, synthetic fiber such as polyester fiber, polyamide fiber such as nylon 6, nylon 66, or nylon 46, or polyolefin fiber such as polyethylene or polypropylene. Water retention body 105 may be a sponge. Furthermore, water retention body 105 may have an integral member made of a superabsorbent polymer (SAP, also known as an absorbent polymer, highly water-absorbent resin, or polymer absorbent). Water retention body 105 having an integral member made of a highly absorbent polymer can better retain the target electrolyzed water.

[0091] The electrolyzed water vaporizes until the vapor pressure of the gas in intake air duct 67 reaches saturated vapor pressure. The vaporized electrolyzed water reaches dust container 65 through intake air duct 67 and sterilizes dust accumulated in dust container 65.

[0092] The water holding body 105 can vaporize electrolyzed water by the air flow in the upstream air passage 67u and inside the dust container 65 and supply the electrolyzed water to the dust container 65. The electrolyzed water vaporized by the air flow sterilizes dust accumulated in the dust container 65. A portion of the electrolyzed water passes through the dust container 65 by the negative suction pressure and reaches the electric blower 66 to sterilize the exhaust air from the electric blower 66. The water holding body 105 can vaporize electrolyzed water by the air flow in the downstream air passage 67d, pass through the dust container 65, reach the electric blower 66 to sterilize the exhaust air from the electric blower 66. The water holding body 105 can vaporize electrolyzed water in the upstream air passage 67u, inside the dust container 65, and downstream air passage 67d and supply the electrolyzed water to the dust container 65 even when the electric blower 66 is stopped. The vaporized electrolytic water diffuses within the intake air duct 67 and sterilizes the dust accumulated in the dust container 65.

[0093] When second supply unit 42 is provided in downstream air passage 67d, the electrolyzed water is vaporized while electric blower 66 is operating, thereby sterilizing the exhaust air from electric blower 66. In other words, when second supply unit 42 is provided in downstream air passage 67d, the entire amount of vaporized electrolyzed water can be used to sterilize the exhaust air blown out from electric vacuum cleaner 2 while electric blower 66 is operating, and dust accumulated in dust container 65 can be sterilized while electric blower 66 is stopped.

[0094] On the other hand, when second supply unit 42 is provided in upstream air passage 67u or dust container 65, second supply unit 42 can vaporize electrolyzed water by the air flow in intake air passage 67 and supply the electrolyzed water to dust container 65. The electrolyzed water vaporized by the air flow in intake air passage 67 sterilizes dust accumulated in dust container 65. In addition, part of the electrolyzed water that has reached dust container 65 passes through dust container 65 due to the negative suction pressure, reaches electric blower 66, and sterilizes the exhaust air from electric blower 66.

[0095] The vacuum cleaner 2 includes a moisture absorbing unit 106 that is provided in the suction air duct 67 and absorbs electrolyzed water (moisture) sucked into the suction air duct 67 by the negative suction pressure. When electrolyzed water is sucked into the suction air duct 67, the moisture absorbing unit 106 absorbs the electrolyzed water before it reaches the electric blower 66, thereby preventing the electrolyzed water from reaching the electric blower 66. The moisture absorbing unit 106 is, for example, a woven fabric or a nonwoven fabric. The moisture absorbing unit 106 is made of a synthetic fiber such as natural fibers like cotton, recycled fibers like cellulose, polyester fibers, polyamide fibers like nylon 6, nylon 66, and nylon 46, and polyolefin fibers like polyethylene and polypropylene. The moisture absorbing unit 106 may be a sponge. Alternatively, the moisture absorbing unit 106 may be an integral member made of a superabsorbent polymer (SAP, also known as an absorbent polymer, highly water-absorbent resin, or polymer absorbent). The moisture absorbing portion 106, which is integrally formed from a highly water-absorbent polymer material, can retain a larger amount of electrolytic water.

[0096] The moisture absorbing unit 106 may be provided in the upstream air duct 67u of the suction air duct 67, or in the downstream air duct 67d. The moisture absorbing unit 106 may also be provided inside the dust container 65. The moisture absorbing unit 106 only needs to be provided downstream of the second atomization device 102 and the water retention body 105 in the air flow. In other words, the moisture absorbing unit 106 is closer to the electric blower 66 in the suction air duct 67 than the second atomization device 102 and the water retention body 105. The moisture absorbing unit 106 may also serve as a filter for the dust container 65, which separates dust from the dust-laden air sucked into the suction air duct 67.

[0097] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an electric cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0098] As shown in Figure 5 in addition to Figures 3 and 4, the vacuum cleaner 2 of this embodiment includes the motor 56 of the moving unit 32, the brush motor 63 and electric blower 66 of the suction cleaning unit 58, the bed evacuation motor 77 of the bed evacuation mechanism 75, the detection unit 35, the control unit 36, the electrolyzed water generator 38, the first supply mechanism unit 91, the second supply mechanism unit 92, and the third supply mechanism unit 93 of the first supply unit 41, the second atomization device 102 of the second supply unit 42, the water volume detection unit 86, and the secondary battery 6, as well as a communication unit 111 and an electrolyzed water generation power supply unit 112 that applies voltage to the electrolyzed water generator 38.

[0099] The communication unit 111 includes a wireless communication unit that is connected to the local communication network 19 wirelessly for two-way communication, a transmitting unit including, for example, an infrared light emitting element that transmits infrared signals to the station 3, and a receiving unit including, for example, a phototransistor that receives infrared signals from the station 3 or a remote controller.

[0100] A wireless communication line is established between the wireless communication unit and relay communication device 21. The wireless communication unit transmits information to operation terminal 17 via relay communication device 21, and receives information from operation terminal 17 via relay communication device 21.

[0101] The wireless communication unit transmits information notifying operation of the start of operation to operation terminal 17 via relay communication device 21. The wireless communication unit also receives information including an instruction to stop operation from operation terminal 17 via relay communication device 21. In other words, vacuum cleaner 2 can be remotely controlled from operation terminal 17 by communication unit 111, improving user convenience.

[0102] The camera unit 81 of the detection unit 35 is, for example, a digital camera. Specifically, the camera unit 81 includes an imaging element 81a (image sensor) that converts a captured image into an electrical signal and an optical system 81b that forms (generates) an image on the imaging element 81a. The imaging element 81a is, for example, a charge-coupled device (CCD) image sensor or a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor. Therefore, the vacuum cleaner 2 can instantly process the digital data of the image captured by the camera unit 81. That is, the image captured by the camera unit 81 can be compressed into a predetermined data format, converted into a binary image, or converted into grayscale using, for example, an image processing circuit. The camera unit 81 captures, for example, images in the visible light range. Images in the visible light range have better image quality than, for example, images in the infrared range, and can easily provide the user with visible information without complex image processing.

[0103] Camera unit 81 is a so-called stereo camera. Images captured by camera unit 81 overlap within a shooting range that includes a position forward of an extension of the center line of vacuum cleaner 2 in the width direction. Camera unit 81 can obtain information about the depth within the shooting range, that is, the distance from vacuum cleaner 2. An image that includes depth information is called a "distance image."

[0104] The camera unit 81 may be provided with a lighting device such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode) or a light bulb. The lighting device illuminates part or all of the shooting range of the camera unit 81. The lighting device enables the camera unit 81 to capture appropriate images even in dark places such as behind obstacles such as furniture, or in dark environments such as at night.

[0105] A large number of pixels are arranged on the light receiving surface of the image sensor 81a. Each pixel on the light receiving surface converts the light it receives into an electrical signal. By integrating the light information received by each pixel according to the position of each pixel, an image representing the scene captured by the camera unit 81 is obtained. A typical image sensor 81a captures color images. A color image is expressed by mixing three colors, for example, red, green, and blue.

[0106] Distance measurement device 85 includes light-emitting unit 85a that irradiates a range for which depth information is to be obtained, and light-receiving unit 85b that receives reflected light from the light-emitting unit 85a. Vacuum cleaner 2 can obtain distance information from vacuum cleaner 2 to a detected object based on the time difference between when light-emitting unit 85a starts to emit light and when light-receiving unit 85b receives the reflected light. Light-emitting unit 85a irradiates, for example, infrared light or visible light.

[0107] The control unit 36 ​​includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), an auxiliary storage device (for example, read only memory (ROM)) that stores various calculation programs executed (processed) by the central processing unit, parameters, etc., and a main storage device (for example, random access memory (RAM)) in which a working area for the programs is dynamically allocated. The auxiliary storage device is preferably rewritable, such as a nonvolatile memory.

[0108] The control unit 36 ​​is electrically connected to the motor 56 of the moving unit 32, the brush motor 63 and electric blower 66 of the suction cleaning unit 58, the bed exit motor 77 of the bed exit mechanism 75, the detection unit 35, the electrolytic water generation device 38, the first supply mechanism unit 91, the second supply mechanism unit 92, and the third supply mechanism unit 93 of the first supply unit 41, the second atomization device 102 of the second supply unit 42, the water volume detection unit 86, the secondary battery 6, and the communication unit 111. The control unit 36 ​​controls the brush motor 63 and electric blower 66 of the suction cleaning unit 58, the bed exit motor 77 of the bed exit mechanism 75, the detection unit 35, the electrolytic water generation device 38, the first supply mechanism unit 91, the second supply mechanism unit 92, the third supply mechanism unit 93 of the first supply unit 41, the second atomization device 102 of the second supply unit 42, the water volume detection unit 86, and the secondary battery 6 in accordance with control signals received from the station 3 and the remote controller via the communication unit 111.

[0109] The control unit 36 ​​includes an autonomous movement control unit 116 that controls the autonomous movement of the vacuum cleaner 2, a detection control unit 117 that controls the operation of the detection unit 35, and a timing unit 118 that keeps time. The autonomous movement control unit 116 and the detection control unit 117 are calculation programs.

[0110] The autonomous movement control unit 116 includes a map information memory unit 119 that stores environment map information (Environment Map), a movement control unit 121 that controls the operation of the electric motor 56 of the movement unit 32, a suction cleaning control unit 122 that controls the operation of the brush motor 63 and electric blower 66 of the suction cleaning unit 58, and a sterilization control unit 123 that controls the operation of the electrolyzed water generation device 38, the first supply mechanism unit 91, second supply mechanism unit 92, and third supply mechanism unit 93 of the first supply unit 41, and the second atomization device 102 of the second supply unit 42.

[0111] The map information storage unit 119 is a data area constructed in a storage area secured in the auxiliary storage device.

[0112] The environmental map information is a collection of data and has an appropriate data structure. The environmental map information is a data representation of the cleaning area A in an appropriate data structure. The environmental map information is read from the map information storage unit 119 secured in the auxiliary storage device into the main storage device for use, and is updated as appropriate before being overwritten in the map information storage unit 119.

[0113] The environmental map information is information used for the autonomous movement of the vacuum cleaner 2, and includes at least the shape of the area within the cleaning area A to be cleaned that the vacuum cleaner 2 can move in. The environmental map information is constructed, for example, as a collection of neatly arranged rectangles with sides of 10 centimeters. The environmental map information may be prepared in advance when the vacuum cleaner 2 is used, or may be created simultaneously with self-location estimation using Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM). The environmental map information may be created and updated during the movement process associated with cleaning operation. When creating the environmental map information using SLAM, the vacuum cleaner 2 preferably includes various sensors, such as an encoder, in addition to the detection unit 35. The movement control unit 121 creates the environmental map information based on information acquired from the detection unit 35 and various sensors.

[0114] The environmental map information is shared between the vacuum cleaner 2 and operation terminal 17. Therefore, communication unit 111 transmits the environmental map information to operation terminal 17 via relay communication device 21. By sharing the environmental map information, the user can accurately grasp the current position (position information) of the vacuum cleaner 2 through operation terminal 17. Furthermore, the user can specify any location on the environmental map information via operation terminal 17 to move the vacuum cleaner 2. Then, the user can easily grasp the situation of the place where the vacuum cleaner 2 has been moved, that is, the destination, from the image captured by camera unit 81.

[0115] The movement control unit 121 controls the movement unit 32 based on the environmental map information to autonomously move the vacuum cleaner 2. The movement control unit 121 controls the magnitude and direction of the current flowing through the electric motor 56 to rotate the electric motor 56 forward or reverse. The movement control unit 121 controls the driving of the drive wheels 55 by rotating the electric motor 56 forward or reverse.

[0116] The suction cleaning control section 122 controls the brush motor 63 and the electric blower 66 individually.

[0117] The sterilization control unit 123 controls the amount of electrolyzed water supplied from the storage tank 37 to the wiping member 71 by opening and closing the first on-off valve 96 of the first supply unit 41. The sterilization control unit 123 also controls the amount of electrolyzed water supplied from the storage tank 37 to the surface f to be cleaned by opening and closing the first on-off valve 96 of the first supply unit 41. The sterilization control unit 123 also controls the amount of electrolyzed water supplied from the storage tank 37 to the periphery of the vacuum cleaner 2 by turning on / off (on / off, driven / stopped) the operation of the first atomization device 101 of the first supply unit 41. The sterilization control unit 123 also controls the amount of electrolyzed water supplied from the storage tank 37 to the suction air duct 67 by turning on / off (on / off, driven / stopped) the operation of the second atomization device 102 of the second supply unit 42.

[0118] Then, control unit 36 ​​applies at least one of the functions assigned to each of the divided cleaning areas based on the area-specific allocation information, and causes vacuum cleaner 2 to autonomously move in cleaning area A. In other words, while movement control unit 121 controls movement unit 32 to autonomously move vacuum cleaner 2 based on the environmental map information and information identifying the divided cleaning areas, suction cleaning control unit 122 and sterilization control unit 123 perform at least one of the functions assigned to each divided cleaning area, including the suction cleaning function, wiping function, and solution spraying function, based on the area-specific allocation information. Hereinafter, this type of control performed by control unit 36 ​​will be referred to as "area-specific execution function allocation control."

[0119] The detection control unit 117 controls the operation of the camera unit 81. The detection control unit 117 causes the camera unit 81 to take images at predetermined time intervals. The detection control unit 117 stores the images taken by the camera unit 81 in the detection result storage unit 125. The images taken by the camera unit 81 are secured in the main memory device of the detection result storage unit 125. The detection result storage unit 125 stores the images taken by the camera unit 81. The detection result storage unit 125 has a capacity capable of storing multiple images.

[0120] The detection result storage unit 125 may store image information representing an image captured by the camera unit 81 without processing it, or may store image information processed to reduce the data size as long as the information necessary for image analysis processing remains. The image information stored in the detection result storage unit 125 may be, for example, an image captured by the camera unit 81 converted to grayscale (hereinafter, referred to as the image, just like the original image captured by the camera unit 81). In the case of a grayscale image, the pixel values ​​of the image correspond to the luminance values. When storing the grayscale image, the control unit 36 ​​can allocate a smaller memory area (resources) to the detection result storage unit 125 than when storing the original image. Furthermore, when using the grayscale image for subsequent analysis processing, the control unit 36 ​​can reduce the load on the central processing unit compared to processing the original image. Image processing, including grayscaling the image, may be performed by the camera unit 81. Performing image processing by the camera unit 81 reduces the load on the central processing unit.

[0121] Furthermore, the detection control unit 117 controls the turning on and off of the lighting device. The lighting device brightens the image, facilitating the analysis process and improving the accuracy.

[0122] Furthermore, the detection control unit 117 stores the detection result of the proximity detection unit 82, i.e., that the detected object has approached the main body 31, and the distance between the detected object and the main body 31 at that time, in the detection result storage unit 125. The detection control unit 117 stores the detection result of the contact detection unit 83, i.e., that the detected object has come into contact with the main body 31, in the detection result storage unit 125. The information stored in the detection result storage unit 125 can be associated with environmental map information and used to optimize the movement path of the vacuum cleaner 2 during autonomous movement.

[0123] The water level detection unit 86 may be of either a contact type or a non-contact type. The contact type water level detection unit 86 may employ a known system, such as a float system that measures the water level based on the vertical position of a float provided in the storage tank 37, or a capacitance system that measures the water level by detecting the capacitance between a pair of electrodes. The non-contact type water level detection unit 86 may employ a known system that measures the water level using, for example, radio waves, ultrasonic waves, or light waves.

[0124] The electrode 87 of the electrolyzed water generator 38 can also serve as the water volume detector 86. The vertically extending electrode 87 changes the ratio of the portion submerged in water (in the electrolyzed water) to the portion exposed to the gas in the storage tank 37 as the water level (electrolyzed water level) in the storage tank 37 changes. This change in ratio changes the value of the current flowing between the positive and negative electrodes of the electrode 87. Therefore, the amount of water stored in the storage tank 37 can be estimated based on the change in the value of the current flowing between the positive and negative electrodes of the electrode 87.

[0125] The electrolyzed water generation power supply unit 112 applies a voltage to the electrode 87 of the electrolyzed water generator 38. The electrolyzed water generation power supply unit 112 converts the power charged in the secondary battery 6 into a voltage suitable for generating electrolyzed water and applies it to the electrode 87.

[0126] Next, we will explain the bed evacuation mechanism of the vacuum cleaner 2 according to this embodiment. In the bed evacuation mechanisms of the second to fourth examples, the same components as those of the bed evacuation mechanism of the first example are given the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0127] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a first example of a floor-elevating mechanism of the vacuum cleaner according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0128] However, if the wiping member 71 containing water, such as electrolyzed water, is left in contact with a hygroscopic floor material, such as a wooden floor including tatami mats or hardwood floors, that is, the surface to be cleaned f, the floor material may absorb excessive moisture or the wax applied to the floor material may be removed. If this situation is left unattended, there is a risk that the floor material may become discolored or damaged.

[0129] Therefore, as shown in FIG. 6 in addition to FIGS. 2 to 4, the electric vacuum cleaner 2 according to this embodiment is provided with a first example of a bed-escape mechanism 75 (hereinafter referred to as the "bed-escape mechanism 75") that can move the wiping member 71 away from the surface f to be cleaned.

[0130] 6 indicates a state in which the wiping member 71 is separated from the surface f to be cleaned, and the two-dot chain line in FIG. 6 indicates a state in which the wiping member 71 is in contact with the surface f to be cleaned.

[0131] The evacuation mechanism 75 separates the wiping member 71 from the surface to be cleaned f by providing a space between the surface to be cleaned f and the wiping member 71. The evacuation mechanism 75 includes a lifting mechanism 76 for the wiping member attachment part 72 and a bed-evacuation motor 77 that drives the lifting mechanism 76. The evacuation mechanism 75 brings the wiping member 71 into contact with the surface to be cleaned f or separates the wiping member 71 from the surface to be cleaned f by moving the wiping member attachment part 72 closer to or farther away from the surface to be cleaned f.

[0132] The lift-off mechanism 75 moves the wiping member 71 away from the surface f to be cleaned when the main structure on which the wiping part 59 is provided, such as the main body case 51 and the storage tank 37, is stopped on the surface f to be cleaned. In other words, the lift-off mechanism 75 moves the wiping member 71 away from the surface f to be cleaned when the relative speed between the wiping member attachment part 72 and the surface f to be cleaned is zero.

[0133] The lifting mechanism 76 may employ various mechanisms that convert the rotational driving force of the bed-elevating motor 77 into linear motion that moves the wiping member mounting portion 72 in the up and down direction. The lifting mechanism 76 may be, for example, a rack and pinion, a ball screw, a pulley device, or a link mechanism.

[0134] As shown in FIG. 5, the autonomous movement control unit 116 of the vacuum cleaner 2 according to this embodiment includes a bed exit control unit 126 that controls the operation of the bed exit motor 77 of the bed exit mechanism 75.

[0135] The bed-leaving control unit 126 controls switching between a state in which the wiping member 71 of the wiping unit 59 is in contact with the surface to be cleaned f and a state in which the wiping member 71 of the wiping unit 59 is away from the surface to be cleaned f.

[0136] The bed exit control unit 126 determines whether the vacuum cleaner 2 is stopped or not based on the detection results of various sensors such as the detection unit 35 and an encoder, or a control signal from the movement control unit 121.

[0137] Note that the stopping of the vacuum cleaner 2 includes at least one of the following states: a state in which the drive wheels 55 of the moving unit 32 are stopped based on the control of the control unit 36; a state in which the drive wheels 55 are spinning idly and the vacuum cleaner 2 is unable to move; and a state in which the vacuum cleaner 2 is unable to move due to some kind of obstacle. Additionally, the stopping of the vacuum cleaner 2 includes at least one of the following states: a state in which the vacuum cleaner 2 is stopped while waiting for a cleaning operation, and a state in which the vacuum cleaner 2 is temporarily stopped during a cleaning operation.

[0138] Furthermore, the determination of whether the vacuum cleaner 2 is stopped may be made the moment the vacuum cleaner 2 stops, or may be made when the stopped state of the vacuum cleaner 2 continues for a predetermined duration, for example, 3 to 5 seconds, and may be made to be unsuccessful if the stopped state is released before the predetermined duration has elapsed, that is, if the vacuum cleaner 2 starts to move. By performing dead band processing so that the vacuum cleaner 2 is determined to be stopped when the stopped state of the vacuum cleaner 2 continues for the predetermined duration, frequent floor lift-off and floor landing operations of the wiping member 71 by the floor lift-off mechanism 75 are suppressed.

[0139] The bed-leaving control unit 126 separates the wiping member 71 from the surface f to be cleaned when the primary structure is stopped on the surface f to be cleaned, and brings the wiping member 71 into contact with the surface f to be cleaned when the primary structure is moving on the surface f to be cleaned. In other words, the bed-leaving control unit 126 separates the wiping member 71 from the surface f to be cleaned when the relative speed between the wiping member attachment unit 72 and the surface f to be cleaned is zero, and brings the wiping member 71 into contact with the surface f to be cleaned when the relative speed between the wiping member attachment unit 72 and the surface f to be cleaned is non-zero.

[0140] In addition, even if the relative speed between the wiping member attachment part 72 and the surface to be cleaned f is a non-zero value, the bed-leaving control part 126 may move the wiping member 71 away from the surface to be cleaned f if the main structure is moving backward (the relative speed is a negative value), and may bring the wiping member 71 into contact with the surface to be cleaned f if the main structure is moving forward (the relative speed is a positive value).

[0141] In this way, by keeping the moist wiping member 71 away from the surface to be cleaned f when the vacuum cleaner 2 is stopped, the surface to be cleaned f can be prevented from absorbing excessive moisture and the wax applied to the surface to be cleaned f can be prevented from being removed.

[0142] The electric vacuum cleaner 2 can dry the wiping member 71 by generating an airflow between the wiping member 71 and the surface to be cleaned f. The bed-escape control unit 126 drives the bed-escape motor 77 to move the wiping member 71 away from the surface to be cleaned, and then operates the electric blower 66 via the suction control unit 122. The electric blower 66 draws air through the suction port 61 and expels it through the exhaust port of the main body 31. The electric vacuum cleaner 2 uses the intake air flow or exhaust air flow of the electric blower 66 to generate an airflow between the wiping member 71 and the surface to be cleaned f. Note that the electric vacuum cleaner 2 may be equipped with a louver to direct the intake air flow or exhaust air flow of the electric blower 66 away from the wiping member 71 when drying of the wiping member 71 is not necessary.

[0143] By actively drying the wiping member 71, the vacuum cleaner 2 can more reliably prevent the surface to be cleaned f from absorbing excessive moisture and the wax applied to the surface to be cleaned f from being removed.

[0144] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a second example of the floor exit mechanism of the vacuum cleaner according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0145] 7, the vacuum cleaner 2 according to this embodiment includes a second example of a floor-elevating mechanism 75A (hereinafter referred to as "the floor-elevating mechanism 75A"). The floor-elevating mechanism 75A includes a track device 131 that moves the wiping member 71 between a position where the wiping member 71 can contact the surface to be cleaned f and a position where the wiping member 71 is separated from the surface to be cleaned f.

[0146] The endless track device 131 includes an annular crawler 132, a drive wheel 133 connected to the bed-lifting motor 77, and an idler wheel 134 for adjusting the tension of the crawler 132.

[0147] The wiping member attachment portion 72 may be integrated with the crawler 132, may be a part of the crawler 132, or may be the crawler 132 itself.

[0148] The bed-elevating mechanism 75A rotates the crawler 132 to move the wiping member 71 between a position where the wiping member 71 contacts the surface to be cleaned f and a position where the wiping member 71 is separated from the surface to be cleaned f.

[0149] In this way, by keeping the moist wiping member 71 away from the surface to be cleaned f when the vacuum cleaner 2 is stopped, the surface to be cleaned f can be prevented from absorbing excessive moisture and the wax applied to the surface to be cleaned f can be prevented from being removed.

[0150] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a third example of the floor-elevating mechanism of the vacuum cleaner according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0151] 8, the vacuum cleaner 2 according to this embodiment includes a third example of a bed-elevating mechanism 75B (hereinafter referred to as "bed-elevating mechanism 75B"). The bed-elevating mechanism 75B changes the posture of the main body 31, which is the main structure, to move the wiping member 71 away from the surface to be cleaned f.

[0152] The bed-elevating mechanism 75B includes a second lifting mechanism 136 that changes the attitude of the main body 31, and a bed-elevating motor 77 that drives the second lifting mechanism 136. The bed-elevating mechanism 75B tilts the main body 31 with respect to the surface f to be cleaned by moving a part of the main body 31 closer to or farther away from the surface f to be cleaned, thereby bringing the wiping member 71 into contact with the surface f to be cleaned, or moving the wiping member 71 away from the surface f to be cleaned.

[0153] The second lifting mechanism 136 may employ various mechanisms that convert the rotational driving force of the bed-elevating motor 77 into linear motion that changes the posture of the main body 31. The second lifting mechanism 136 is, for example, any of a rack and pinion, a ball screw, a pulley device, and a link mechanism.

[0154] The second lifting mechanism 136 may be in constant contact with the surface f to be cleaned when the electric vacuum cleaner 2 is placed on the surface f to be cleaned, or may be in contact with the surface f to be cleaned only when changing the position of the electric vacuum cleaner 2. A training wheel may be provided at the lower end of the second lifting mechanism 136.

[0155] The second lifting mechanism 136 tilts the attitude of the main body 31, for example, using the driven wheels 57 as a fulcrum. When the second lifting mechanism 136 extends, the main body 31 tilts with the front end of the main body 31 lowered and the rear end raised, using the driven wheels 57 as a fulcrum. At this time, the wiping member 71 moves away from the surface to be cleaned. In order to stabilize the main body 31 in a tilted attitude, the bed-elevating mechanism 75B preferably includes a pair of second lifting mechanisms 136 on the left and right.

[0156] The second lifting mechanism 136 may tilt the attitude of the main body 31 by extending or shortening the suspension of the drive wheel 55. The second lifting mechanism 136 is not limited to tilting the attitude of the main body 31 by lifting a part of the main body 31 as shown in Figure 8. The second lifting mechanism 136 may also tilt the attitude of the main body 31 by accommodating the driven wheel 57 so as to be pulled into the main body 31 and lowering a part of the main body 31 downward.

[0157] In this way, by keeping the moist wiping member 71 away from the surface to be cleaned f when the vacuum cleaner 2 is stopped, the surface to be cleaned f can be prevented from absorbing excessive moisture and the wax applied to the surface to be cleaned f can be prevented from being removed.

[0158] FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a fourth example of the floor exit mechanism of the vacuum cleaner according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0159] 9, the vacuum cleaner 2 according to this embodiment includes a fourth example of a bed-elevating mechanism 75C (hereinafter referred to as "bed-elevating mechanism 75C"). The bed-elevating mechanism 75C includes a water tray 137 that can be placed between the wiping member 71 and the surface to be cleaned f.

[0160] The bed-elevating mechanism 75C sandwiches a water tray 137 between the surface to be cleaned f and the wiping member 71 to move the wiping member 71 away from the surface to be cleaned f. The bed-elevating mechanism 75C includes the water tray 137, a slide mechanism 138 that moves the water tray 137, and a bed-elevating motor 77 that drives the slide mechanism 138. The bed-elevating mechanism 75C moves the water tray 137 to sandwich the wiping member 71 between the surface to be cleaned f and the wiping member 71, or moves the water tray 137 to pull it out from between the wiping member 71 and the surface to be cleaned f, thereby bringing the wiping member 71 into contact with the surface to be cleaned f or moving the wiping member 71 away from the surface to be cleaned f.

[0161] The slide mechanism 138 may employ various mechanisms that convert the rotational driving force of the bed-elevation motor 77 into linear motion that moves the water tray 137. The slide mechanism 138 has, for example, a rail that supports the water tray 137, and any one of a rack and pinion, ball screw, and pulley device mechanism that moves the water tray 137 along the rail.

[0162] Furthermore, in addition to moving the water receiving tray 137 to sandwich it between the wiping member 71 and the surface to be cleaned f or moving the water receiving tray 137 to pull it out from between the wiping member 71 and the surface to be cleaned f, the bed-elevation mechanism 75C may also place the water receiving tray 137 on the surface to be cleaned f and move the main structure on which the wiping member mounting portion 72 is provided to move the wiping member 71 above the water receiving tray 137, thereby sandwiching the water receiving tray 137 between the wiping member 71 and the surface to be cleaned f. In this case, the bed-elevation mechanism 75C may be provided with a brake device, instead of the bed-elevation motor 77, that allows or restricts the movement of the water receiving tray 137 relative to the slide mechanism 138.

[0163] The water tray 137 is preferably large enough to insulate the entire wiping member 71 from the surface f to be cleaned.

[0164] In this way, by keeping the moist wiping member 71 away from the surface to be cleaned f when the vacuum cleaner 2 is stopped, the surface to be cleaned f can be prevented from absorbing excessive moisture and the wax applied to the surface to be cleaned f can be prevented from being removed.

[0165] Next, the stations according to this embodiment will be described. In the station 3A of the second example and the station 3B of the third example, the same components as those in the station 3 of the first example are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted.

[0166] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a second example of a station of an electric cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0167] As shown in Figure 10, the electric cleaning device 1 of this embodiment includes an electric vacuum cleaner 2 that can wet-mop the surface to be cleaned f with a wiping member 71 containing moisture, and a second example station 3A (hereinafter referred to as "station 3A") that serves as a charging stand that can charge the electric vacuum cleaner 2.

[0168] The station 3A is provided with a base 141 on which all or part of the vacuum cleaner 2 rides to separate the wiping member 71 from the surface to be cleaned f.

[0169] Base 141 has a size that allows at least driven wheels 57 and drive wheels 55 to contact the ground. Base 141 may have a horizontal surface on which vacuum cleaner 2 is placed or an inclined surface, as long as wiping member 71 is spaced apart from surface f to be cleaned when vacuum cleaner 2 is placed on it.

[0170] In this way, station 3A moves wet wiping member 71 away from surface f to be cleaned by having vacuum cleaner 2 ride up onto base 141. Therefore, vacuum cleaner 1 can prevent surface f from absorbing excessive moisture and prevent wax applied to surface f from being removed.

[0171] Station 3A charges the vacuum cleaner 2 that has returned to station 3A. That is, station 3A charges the vacuum cleaner 2 that has climbed onto base 141. Station 3A is equipped with charging terminal 142. When the vacuum cleaner 2 has climbed onto base 141, charging terminal 142 is positioned above wiping member 71 of the vacuum cleaner 2. Therefore, even if moisture drips from wiping member 71, station 3A can easily maintain the integrity of its charging function.

[0172] After returning to station 3A, the electric vacuum cleaner 2 operates electric blower 66 to generate an airflow between the wiping member 71 and the surface f to be cleaned, thereby drying the wiping member 71. By actively drying the wiping member 71, the electric vacuum cleaner 2 can prevent moisture from dripping from the wiping member 71 onto the surface f to be cleaned.

[0173] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of a third example of a station of an electric cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0174] As shown in FIG. 11, the electric cleaning device 1 of this embodiment includes an electric vacuum cleaner 2 capable of wet wiping the surface to be cleaned f with a wiping member 71 containing moisture, and a third example station 3B (hereinafter referred to as "station 3B") serving as a charging stand capable of charging the electric vacuum cleaner 2.

[0175] Station 3B is provided with a water tray 143 that is placed between the wiping member 71 and the surface to be cleaned f. Station 3B separates the wiping member 71 from the surface to be cleaned f by sandwiching the water tray 143 between the surface to be cleaned f and the wiping member 71.

[0176] When the vacuum cleaner 2 moves onto the base 141 of the station 3B, the water tray 143 is positioned directly below the wiping member 71. The water tray 143 is preferably sized to insulate the entire wiping member 71 from the surface f to be cleaned.

[0177] In this way, station 3B separates wet wiping member 71 from surface f to be cleaned by water tray 143 located directly below wiping member 71 of vacuum cleaner 2 that has mounted on base 141. Therefore, electric cleaning device 1 can prevent surface f from absorbing excessive moisture and the wax applied to surface f from being removed.

[0178] As described above, the vacuum cleaner 2 according to this embodiment is provided with the lift-off mechanisms 75, 75A, 75B, and 75C that move the wiping member 71 away from the surface f to be cleaned when the main structure is stopped on the surface f to be cleaned. Therefore, the vacuum cleaner 2 prevents the surface f from absorbing excessive moisture due to the wiping member 71 containing moisture, and prevents the wax applied to the surface f from being removed.

[0179] Furthermore, the vacuum cleaner 2 according to this embodiment is equipped with lift-off mechanisms 75, 75A, 75B that provide a space between the surface to be cleaned f and the wiping member 71 to separate the wiping member 71 from the surface to be cleaned f. Therefore, the vacuum cleaner 2 can easily dry the moist wiping member 71 while preventing the surface to be cleaned f from excessively absorbing moisture due to the moist wiping member 71 or removing wax applied to the surface to be cleaned f.

[0180] Furthermore, the vacuum cleaner 2 according to this embodiment is provided with a bed-elevating mechanism 75 including a lifting mechanism 76 for the wiping member attachment part 72. Therefore, the vacuum cleaner 2 can easily remove the wiping member 71 from the surface to be cleaned f without changing the position of the main body 31.

[0181] The vacuum cleaner 2 according to this embodiment also includes a floor-lifting mechanism 75A having a track device 131 that moves the wiping member 71 between a position where it can contact the surface f to be cleaned and a position where it is separated from the surface f. Therefore, the vacuum cleaner 2 can easily separate the wiping member 71 from the surface f to be cleaned.

[0182] Furthermore, the vacuum cleaner 2 according to this embodiment is provided with a bed-releasing mechanism 75B that changes the attitude of the main structure to separate the wiping member 71 from the surface to be cleaned f. Therefore, the vacuum cleaner 2 can easily separate the wiping member 71 from the surface to be cleaned f.

[0183] Furthermore, the vacuum cleaner 2 according to this embodiment can dry the wiping member 71 by generating an airflow between the wiping member 71 and the surface f to be cleaned.

[0184] Furthermore, the vacuum cleaner 2 according to this embodiment is equipped with a bed-lifting mechanism 75C having a water tray 137 that can be placed between the wiping member 71 and the surface to be cleaned f. This allows the vacuum cleaner 2 to easily lift the wiping member 71 off the surface to be cleaned f. Furthermore, even if water drips from the wiping member 71, the vacuum cleaner 2 can catch the dripping water and prevent the surface to be cleaned f from getting wet.

[0185] Furthermore, the vacuum cleaner 2 according to this embodiment can sterilize the surface to be cleaned f by using electrolyzed water containing hypochlorous acid for wet wiping.

[0186] Furthermore, the stations 3, 3A of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment are provided with a base 141 on which all or part of the vacuum cleaner 2 rides to separate the wiping member 71 from the surface f to be cleaned. Therefore, the cleaning device 1 prevents the surface f from being excessively moistened by the wiping member 71 containing moisture, or from removing wax applied to the surface f. Furthermore, even if the vacuum cleaner 1 does not have a mechanism for separating the wiping member 71 from the surface to be cleaned, such as a lift-off mechanism 75, 75A, 75B, or 75C, it can still separate the wiping member 71 of the returned vacuum cleaner from the surface f to be cleaned.

[0187] Furthermore, station 3A of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment is provided with a water tray 143 that is placed between the wiping member 71 and the surface f to be cleaned. This allows the vacuum cleaner 2 to easily separate the wiping member 71 from the surface f to be cleaned. Furthermore, even if water drips from the wiping member 71, the vacuum cleaner 2 can catch the dripping water and prevent the surface f from getting wet.

[0188] Furthermore, stations 3, 3A of the vacuum cleaner 1 according to this embodiment are provided with charging terminals 142 that are positioned above the wiping member 71 of the vacuum cleaner 2 when the vacuum cleaner 2 is placed on the base 141. Therefore, even if water drips from or leaks through the wiping member 71, the charging function of the secondary battery 6 of the vacuum cleaner 1 is not impaired.

[0189] Therefore, the vacuum cleaner 2 and the vacuum cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can be used for wet mopping, and the wet wiping member 71 will not discolor or damage the floor material.

[0190] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0191] 1...electrical cleaning device, 2...electrical vacuum cleaner, 3, 3A, 3B...station, 6...secondary battery, 7...power cord, 8...charging circuit, 11...operation control system, 12...telecommunications network, 13...server, 15...remote control terminal, 16...in-premises terminal, 17...operation terminal, 18...external network, 19...in-premises communication network, 21...relay communication device, 22...Internet, 31...main body, 32...moving unit, 33...cleaning unit, 35...detection unit, 36...control unit, 37...storage tank, 38...electrolyzed water generation device, 41...first supply unit, 42...second Two supply units, 51... main body case, 52... bumper, 55... drive wheels, 56... electric motor, 57... driven wheels, 58... suction cleaning unit, 59... wiping unit, 61... suction port, 62... rotating brush, 63... brush motor, 65... dust container, 66... ​​electric blower, 67... suction air duct, 67u... upstream air duct, 67d... downstream air duct, 68... exhaust air duct, 71... wiping member, 72... wiping member mounting unit, 75, 75A, 75B, 75C... bed exit mechanism, 76... lifting mechanism, 77... bed exit motor, 81... camera unit, 81a... camera Image element, 81b...optical system, 82...proximity detection unit, 83...contact detection unit, 85...distance measurement device, 85a...light emitting unit, 85b...light receiving unit, 86...water level detection unit, 87...electrode, 91...first supply mechanism unit, 92...second supply mechanism unit, 93...third supply mechanism unit, 95...first supply port, 96...first opening / closing valve, 97...second supply port, 98...second opening / closing valve, 99a...first water conveyance path, 99b...second water conveyance path, 99c...third water conveyance path, 99d...fourth water conveyance path, 101...first atomization device, 102...second atomization device, 105...water retention body, 1 06...moisture absorption unit, 111...communication unit, 112...power supply unit for generating electrolyzed water, 116...autonomous movement control unit, 117...detection control unit, 118...timing unit, 119...map information memory unit, 121...movement control unit, 122...suction cleaning control unit, 123...sterilization control unit, 125...detection result memory unit, 126...bed exit control unit, 131...endless track device, 132...crawler, 133...drive wheel, 134...idler wheel, 136...second lifting mechanism, 137...water tray, 138...slide mechanism, 141...base, 142...charging terminal, 143...water tray.

Claims

1. an electric vacuum cleaner capable of wet wiping a surface to be cleaned with a wiping member containing water; a charging stand capable of charging the vacuum cleaner, The vacuum cleaner comprises: a main structure having a suction port on a bottom surface to which suction negative pressure acts; a plurality of drive wheels that can come into contact with the surface to be cleaned; a driven wheel that supports the main structure on the surface to be cleaned together with the drive wheel; a wiping member attachment portion provided on the main structure to which the wiping member can be attached and detached, the charging stand includes a base on which all or part of the vacuum cleaner can rest, In a forward direction of the main structure, the drive wheels are disposed rearward of the driven wheels, and the wiping member attachment portion is disposed rearward of the suction port and the drive wheels, The electric vacuum cleaner drives the drive wheels to climb onto the base, thereby separating the wiping member from the surface to be cleaned and the base by a space provided between the surface to be cleaned and the base and the wiping member, thereby promoting drying; When the vacuum cleaner is mounted on the base and the wiping member is separated from the surface to be cleaned and the base, the plurality of drive wheels and the driven wheels are stably grounded on the base.

2. The electric vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, further comprising: a storage tank provided on the same side as the wiping member mounting portion across the drive wheel in the forward direction of the main structure; and a charging terminal provided on the opposite side of the wiping member mounting portion.

3. The electric cleaning device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the width of the wiping member attachment portion in the left-right direction is greater than the width of the suction opening in the left-right direction.

4. The electric cleaning device according to claim 1 , wherein the suction port is disposed between the left and right drive wheels and at a position closer to the drive wheels than the wiping member attachment portion.

5. The electric cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the wiping member can be dried by generating an airflow between the wiping member and the surface to be cleaned.

6. The electric cleaning device according to claim 1 , wherein the water is electrolyzed water containing hypochlorous acid.

7. The electric cleaning device according to claim 1 , wherein the charging base includes a water tray disposed between the wiping member and the surface to be cleaned.

8. The electric cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the charging stand includes a charging terminal that is disposed above the wiping member of the electric vacuum cleaner when the electric vacuum cleaner is placed on the base.

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