Vacuum cleaning machine

Abstract

To provide a vacuum cleaner capable of reducing power consumption and a risk of damage to hard floors.SOLUTION: A vacuum cleaner includes: a cleaner head defining a suction chamber and having an agitator arranged to be rotated by an agitator motor; a dirt separator; a vacuum motor arranged to draw air into the suction chamber and then into the dirt separator; and a controller. The controller is configured to monitor an electrical load of the agitator motor, compare a magnitude of the electrical load with a threshold, and selectively adjust electrical power delivered to the vacuum motor. The controller is configured either to increase the electrical power delivered to the vacuum motor to a predetermined upper power level if the electrical load is greater than the threshold, or to decrease the electrical power delivered to the vacuum motor to a predetermined lower power level if the electrical load is smaller than the threshold.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner.

Background Art

[0002] The present invention is not limited to any particular type of vacuum cleaner. For example, the present invention can be used in upright vacuum cleaners, cylinder vacuum cleaners or hand-held, i.e. "stick-type", vacuum cleaners. Some known vacuum cleaners have a cleaning head that defines a suction chamber provided with a motor-driven rotary agitator. Such agitators often take the form of a brush bar with bristles and are configured to agitate the fibers of the carpet during rotation of the brush bar to thereby dislodge dust from the fibers of the carpet. However, generally, the operation of such agitators is redundant when vacuuming "hard floors" such as laminated flooring. In fact, in some cases, the rotational operation of the agitator can mark or damage such floors. Even if the agitator is designed to avoid damaging hard floors, some users may not desire the agitator to scrub hard floors with sufficient force.

[0003] A cleaning head having a vacuum chamber and a rotary agitator generally has a suction opening provided in a bottom plate on the lower surface of the cleaning head leading to the suction chamber. In use, the air containing the dust is drawn into the suction chamber through the suction opening before being ducted to a dust separator. The bottom plate generally contacts the surface being cleaned.

[0004]

[0004] < ​​It is positioned so as to be or so that it is separated from the surface by only a short distance, thereby This increases the degree to which dust on the surface is taken into the airflow passing through the suction opening. Due to low pressure within the chamber, the vacuum cleaner head is sucked onto the surface being cleaned. This is a tendency. This behavior is inherent in many vacuum cleaner heads, and in fact, several In some cases, the stirring is actively promoted, thereby causing the stirrer to move downward so as to contact the floor. It is attracted, and therefore provides a stronger stirring action. In either case, the stirrer is rigid This could worsen the problem of damaging the floor (the potential risk of damage).

[0005] Some vacuum cleaners allow the user to switch off the agitator motor. This is how they are addressing this problem. However, this is because carpets and hard floors The user must remember to turn the agitator on and off when switching between A and B. The need to take time to turn it on and off places a significant burden on some users. This is a drawback of handheld devices. Or it can be particularly troublesome with stick-type vacuum cleaners. These vacuum cleaners often... It is a terrible drive and must be held down to keep the vacuum cleaner on. It has an off switch (in the form of a deadman's handle). These are usually "point • Used in "shot" mode, i.e., by holding the on / off switch in the on position on the floor surface Clean a small area, then turn the vacuum cleaner on and off again, pointing it towards another area of ​​the floor. Before holding, release the on / off switch and lift the vacuum cleaner. When used in this manner, the user holds the on / off switch. Each time, you have to choose whether to start or stop the agitator motor, which is particularly cumbersome and time-consuming. It takes time and / or is easy to forget. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] The object of the present invention is to mitigate or eliminate the above-mentioned drawbacks and / or to improve upon them. Alternatively, the solution is to provide an alternative suction nozzle or vacuum cleaner. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to the present invention, a vacuum cleaner is provided, which defines a suction chamber A vacuum cleaner head having a stirrer configured to be rotated by a stirrer motor, and dust A dust separator and a true The electrical loads of the idle motor and the agitator motor were observed, and the magnitude of the electrical load was compared to a threshold value. A controller configured to selectively adjust the power supplied to a vacuum motor is provided. The controller reduces the power supplied to the vacuum motor when the electrical load is greater than a threshold. Increase to a predetermined upper power level, and if the electrical load is less than a threshold, increase to a predetermined lower power level. Reduce it to.

[0008] This allows vacuum cleaners to be adapted to various floor types, and therefore This maximizes overall cleaning performance. For example, the threshold is when the vacuum cleaner head is on the carpet. Sometimes (due to increased frictional resistance to the rotation of the agitator caused by the carpet fibers) The electrical load of the mixer motor is above the threshold, and the threshold is reached when the vacuum cleaner head is on a hard floor. It can be selected to be less than the value. In such cases, the electricity sent to the vacuum motor increases when the vacuum cleaner head is on the carpet (this can improve picking up dust from the carpet), and / or decreases when the vacuum cleaner head is on a hard floor (in this regard, since the suction required for sufficient picking up on a hard floor is generally low, the agitator is pressed against the surface to reduce the actual or possible risk of damaging the surface and reduce power consumption without excessive loss in cleaning performance).

[0009] This behavior that the suction increases when the vacuum cleaner head is on the carpet and / or the suction decreases when the vacuum cleaner head is on a hard floor is counterintuitive. As described above, the vacuum cleaner head has a tendency to be sucked down when the pressure in the suction chamber is low (i.e., when the suction level is high). On a carpet-like surface, this can increase the sealing level between the bottom plate and the carpet, which (due to the decrease in the air flow into the suction opening) further reduces the pressure in the suction chamber, which further sinks the vacuum cleaner head down and increases the sealing level between the carpet and the bottom plate, etc. This causes a phenomenon known as “sticking,” at which time the vacuum cleaner head sucks itself onto the carpet with such a force that it is difficult for the user to move. Therefore, at this point, what is usually considered desirable is to reduce the suction when the vacuum cleaner head is on the carpet to thereby reduce the risk of sticking, and / or, since the risk of sticking to a hard floor is generally low, increase the suction when the vacuum cleaner head is on a hard floor (thereby improving picking up). ​ .

[0010] The controller increases the power supplied to the vacuum motor when the electrical load exceeds a threshold. The power level is increased, and when the electrical load is below the threshold, the power sent to the vacuum motor is It is configured to reduce the power level to a lower level.

[0011] This is due to the aforementioned functionality (improving pick-up on carpeted floors, as well as power It can be beneficial in that it can provide both benefits (reducing consumption and the risk of damaging hard floors). ru.

[0012] While this dual functionality is desirable, the vacuum cleaner according to the present invention is nevertheless, A vacuum motor configured solely to selectively increase the power supplied to it or a vacuum motor It may have a controller configured solely to selectively reduce the power sent to it.

[0013] Preferably, the controller controls power levels other than the upper and lower power levels. It can be configured not to supply power to the vacuum motor.

[0014] This makes it easier for users to understand the behavior of the vacuum cleaner. (For example, the user may have a vacuum cleaner with "hard floor mode" and "carpet mode" While the transitions between states are easily understood, more complex behaviors can become confusing. Instead, or even better, this makes the controller a computer-like, inexpensive professional It may be possible to utilize a gram structure, which could reduce the cost of vacuum cleaners.

[0015] The controller is permanently configured to supply only the upper and lower power levels. It is possible, or it is set that way in one mode, but one or more when in other modes. It can be configured to supply a different or additional power level.

[0016] The controller adjusts the power supplied to the vacuum cleaner and then adjusts the electrical load on the agitator. Continue monitoring, and when the electrical load of the agitator motor is detected to have crossed a threshold, further adjustments will be made. It can be configured in such a way that the vacuum cleaner head changes over time, rather than being adjusted only once. It may be beneficial in that it allows for repeated adaptation to different situations.

[0017] For example, the controller (due to the load on the agitator motor being above a threshold) ) Increase the power supplied to the vacuum motor to the upper power level, and then the agitator motor After the electrical load crosses the threshold and drops below the threshold, the supplied power level decreases. It may be configured to reduce to . In another example, instead of or preferentially to the above functionality In addition to the above functionality, the controller also ensures that (the load on the agitator motor is below a threshold). (This causes) the power supplied to the vacuum motor to be reduced to a lower power level, and then stirring After the electrical load of the motor crosses the threshold and rises above the threshold, it is supplied to the vacuum motor. It can be configured to increase the power to a higher power level.

[0018] The controller observes the electrical load of the agitator motor in relation to the current drawn by the electric motor. The device is configured to compare the detected current with a current threshold.

[0019] This is because the current drawn in by the agitator motor is roughly proportional to the torque the agitator receives. Therefore, it can be beneficial, and thus the resistance exerted on the agitator by the floor surface is particularly easily interpreted. It can provide indicators (and by extension, that type of floor surface).

[0020] In contrast, for example, a controller can observe the electrical load of the agitator motor in relation to power intake. If you are measuring, this could be due to (for example, fluctuations in the main supply source, or vacuum) Due to changes in the charge state of the battery pack that powers the vacuum cleaner, it is affected by voltage fluctuations. This is possible. Therefore, interpreting electrical loads can become more difficult and less reliable.

[0021] The controller detects the power supply to the vacuum motor when the vacuum cleaner was last turned off. It is configured to keep a record of the bell, and when you turn on the vacuum cleaner next time It can be configured to resume sending that power level to the vacuum motor.

[0022] In other words, when you turn off the vacuum cleaner and then turn it back on, the vacuum will not create a vacuum. The power supplied to the motor can be configured to "restart from where it left off." It is necessary to readjust the power level each time you turn the vacuum cleaner off and then on again. One unnecessary aspect is the possibility of turning the vacuum cleaner off and on again during a single cleaning session. This can be particularly beneficial in certain configurations.

[0023] The vacuum cleaner must be held down to keep the vacuum cleaner on. It may be equipped with an on / off switch. For example, the on / off switch may turn the vacuum cleaner on when pulled. When released, it can act as a trigger that automatically initializes and turns off the vacuum cleaner.

[0024] "Restart from where you left off" - a vacuum cleaner (for example, lift the vacuum cleaner and vacuum... This can happen when cleaning a single floor surface, such as when directing the vacuum cleaner towards a different part of the floor surface. Since you typically turn your vacuum cleaner off multiple times, use an on / off switch like this. This can be particularly beneficial in such cases.

[0025] The controller also checks the power level when turning the vacuum cleaner off and then on again. It sends a predetermined initial power level to the vacuum motor that does not correspond to the lower power level. It can be constructed in the following way.

[0026] In other words, the controller receives the power signal that was being sent when the vacuum cleaner was last turned off. Regardless of the bell, as soon as you turn on the vacuum cleaner, the initial power level will be set to the vacuum motor. It can be configured to send. This is the same type as when you last used the vacuum cleaner. The controller does not estimate that it is on the surface, so you should use a vacuum cleaner until you clean the room. This can be particularly beneficial in configurations where there is a possibility of turning it off and then on again.

[0027] The initial power level is, for example, higher than the lower power level and lower than the upper power level. There is a power level that is a "compromise" between the upper and lower power levels, which allows the vacuum cleaner to operate. This could be beneficial in that it can initiate something. For example, this can send an upper power level to a vacuum motor. Furthermore, turn on the vacuum cleaner with the vacuum cleaner head on a hard floor (and then immediately, as described above) This can avoid (which may result in damaging the floor), and / or The vacuum motor is supplied with a lower power level and the vacuum cleaner head is on the carpet when vacuuming Turn on the vacuum cleaner (and immediately the initial pick-up may become unacceptably weak). This can be avoided.

[0028] Alternatively, the initial power level can be lower than the lower power level (this can cause damage) Eliminate the risk of the vacuum cleaner head getting stuck to the hard floor to a degree sufficient to cause this. (This can result in) or exceeding high power levels (this is because the initial capture is unacceptable (The risk of a decrease in risk can be eliminated to a reasonable extent.)

[0029] Alternatively, the controller was sent when the vacuum cleaner was last turned off. Regardless of the power level, as soon as you turn on the vacuum cleaner, the vacuum motor will reach the upper power level. It can be configured to send a vacuum to the vacuum motor as soon as the vacuum cleaner is turned off. It can be configured to transmit power levels.

[0030] The controller gradually increases the power supplied to the vacuum motor to an upper or lower power level. It can be configured to adjust precisely.

[0031] Changes in the power supplied to the vacuum motor of a vacuum cleaner often result in a vacuum Vacuum cleaners can cause noticeable changes in the pitch of the noise they produce. The change may be recognizable by the user, and this user will indicate an error in a sudden change in pitch. It can be interpreted as such. Therefore, a gradual change in power level corresponds to a change in pitch. This can make sufficiently gradual changes unrecognizable, or rather, in the behavior rather than errors. It can be clearly linked through intentional changes.

[0032] While this functionality is desirable, in some forms the controller sends to the vacuum motor The power being supplied is adjusted as a step-like change down to an upper or lower power level. It can be composed of the following.

[0033] When gradually adjusting the power supplied to a vacuum motor, the controller controls the vacuum motor The power sent to the data is raised for a period of at least 0.1 seconds or at least 0.2 seconds. It can be configured to adjust to a power level or a lower power level. For example, the controller The power supplied to the vacuum motor is raised to an upper power level or for a period of at least 0.5 seconds. It can be configured to adjust to a lower power level.

[0034] The controller preferably supplies power to the vacuum motor for at least 0.1 seconds or Adjust to the upper or lower power level for a period of at least 0.2 seconds. It is at least composed of these components.

[0035] These relatively long-term changes in power levels progress without users noticing. This could improve opportunities for users to intentionally recognize or react to information.

[0036] The controller controls the power supplied to the vacuum motor for periods of 10 seconds or less, or 8 seconds or less. It can be configured to adjust to an upper or lower power level. For example, The roller is configured to regulate the power supplied to the vacuum motor over a period of 6 seconds or less. It is possible.

[0037] The controller preferably supplies power to the vacuum motor for 5 seconds or less or 4 seconds or less. It may be configured to adjust to an upper or lower power level over a period of time.

[0038] This allows vacuum cleaners to adapt relatively quickly to changes in floor type, while Nevertheless, it may be possible to gradually adjust the power level.

[0039] The controller compares the magnitude of the electrical load to a spike threshold that is higher than the threshold mentioned above. Thus, when the electrical load is greater than the spike threshold, the power supplied to the vacuum motor It can be further configured to reduce the force.

[0040] In some situations, the agitator of the vacuum cleaner head may cause problems (for example, when a user cleans the corners of a rug). When vacuuming, or when the vacuum cleaner head is stuck and the agitator is applied to the carpet with great force, Conversely, if forced, there is a risk of it becoming entangled and forcibly stopped. This is the result This causes a peak in the current flowing through the agitator motor and associated wiring, The peak can get high enough to cause damage to the vacuum cleaner head. Protection The circuit is installed (for example, inside the agitator motor), and this protection circuit is activated when the current is excessive. When the temperature rises too high, the power supply to the agitator motor is cut off, which causes damage like this. Reduce the risk. This is known as the agitator "getting stuck". The agitator gets stuck While this is better than causing damage, this deadlock is why the agitator stopped. This could cause confusion for some users, or the stirrer may not be rotating. Therefore, this may lead users to continue using the vacuum cleaner in a state where cleaning performance is reduced. It can disappear.

[0041] When the electrical load on the agitator motor is above the spike threshold, the vacuum motor is supplied. By reducing the power consumption, the agitator will not get stuck (or will be damaged due to excessive current). The chances of it occurring can be reduced. By reducing the amount of electricity sent to the vacuum motor, the suction force can be reduced. This can reduce the pressure in the suction chamber, causing an increase in pressure. This allows the head to be slightly lifted, thereby reducing the peak in the current of the agitator motor. This mitigates the problem when it is caused by pressing the agitator against the floor. Alternatively, or even better, the reduced suction force makes it easier for the user to pull the corners of the rug. This makes it easier, thereby allowing the agitator to move freely again.

[0042] The controller sends power to the vacuum motor when the electrical load exceeds the spike threshold. The power being used can be configured to reduce the power level to a power level below a certain power level. For the reasons stated above, the agitator may become stuck (or excessive current may cause damage). This could further increase the opportunities to avoid )

[0043] As an alternative, the controller sends power to the vacuum motor above a lower power level. However, it can be configured to reduce the power level to a level lower than the upper power level.

[0044] The controller reacts to the vacuum motor when the electrical load exceeds the spike threshold. The power supplied may be configured to decrease as a step-like change.

[0045] Step-like changes in the power supplied to such a vacuum motor result in rapid changes in the suction force. This can cause a rapid reduction, thereby enabling the advantageous rapid propulsion of the above mechanism, and This can help prevent deadlocks (or setbacks).

[0046] Alternatively, the decrease in the transmitted power is gradual, and in this case, the decrease is It takes place over a relatively short period of time (for example, less than 1 second or less than 0.5 seconds).

[0047] The threshold can be a discontinuous value of one.

[0048] This means the controller only compares the measured load of the agitator motor to a single threshold. Since this is necessary, it is possible to make the controller configuration and program relatively simple. This is possible. In turn, this could reduce the overall cost of the vacuum cleaner.

[0049] Alternatively, the threshold can be a numerical range, and the controller will check if the electrical load is above the threshold range. If it is greater than the limit, increase the power to the upper power level, and / or, the electricity When the load is less than the lower limit of the threshold range, the power is reduced to a predetermined lower power level. It can be configured to reduce the power level. This means the controller can adjust the power level. It can be beneficial in that it can provide a "buffer zone" in between. In turn, this is because a vacuum cleaner agitates This can increase the device's ability to withstand fluctuations in its electrical load, which the controller can then use to control the electrical load. This occurs while the vacuum cleaner head is on a single surface type, without changing the force level.

[0050] When the controller is in the first mode, it sends the vacuum motor in the manner described above. The controller may be configured to adjust the power, and the controller may have a second mode.

[0051] This allows users to disable the aforementioned functionality as needed.

[0052] When the controller is in the second mode, a single predetermined power It can be configured to supply a level to a vacuum motor.

[0053] This allows the user to set the power level supplied to the vacuum motor according to specific usage. This can make it possible. For example, a user may want to clean a hard floor such as a laminated floor. The vacuum motor then applies maximum suction (i.e., maximum power supplied to the vacuum motor), and This maximizes the removal of dust from between adjacent laminates. In another example, Users may want to clean specific, sensitive rugs, and a vacuum motor provides low-level suction. To side with.

[0054] Alternatively, the controller adjusts the power supplied to the vacuum motor when in second mode. It is possible, but it can be adjusted in a manner different from the modes described above.

[0055] The controller may have a third mode. For example, the controller may have an "intermediate" mode. It may be configured to adjust the power supplied to the vacuum motor in the manner described above when it is in the state. Alternatively, the controller may have a relatively low power level supplied to the vacuum motor (for example). "Minimum" mode (same as or lower than the lower power level) and supply to the vacuum motor The power level being used is relatively high (for example, the same as or higher than high power level). It may have a high (maximum) mode.

[0056] A vacuum cleaner preferably has one or more cells configured to supply power to a vacuum motor. The present invention provides a battery pack with a . The reduction in power usage described above is more long Since it is considered equivalent to battery life, when applied to battery-powered vacuum cleaners, This could be particularly advantageous.

[0057] Alternatively, a vacuum cleaner may be equipped with a power cable for connecting to a primary power source.

[0058] The agitator motor is preferably positioned partially or completely inside the agitator. This may offer a more compact configuration and / or a simpler or more robust design. A transmission mechanism can be used to enable the transmission of torque from the motor to the agitator.

[0059] The controller may be configured to continuously monitor the electrical load of the agitator motor. Alternatively, the controller may be configured to periodically monitor the electrical load of the agitator motor. It is possible. In the latter case, the controller will operate at time intervals of 5 seconds or less, for example, 2 seconds or less. The electrical load can be measured at time intervals of 1 second or less. Frequent observations can improve the response time in adjusting the vacuum motor's power level. .

[0060] The controller can be a single unit, such as a PCB. Alternatively, the controller can be It can be formed from multiple subunits. For example, the controller supplies a vacuum motor A subunit configured to control the power level and the electrical supply to the agitator motor A separate subunit configured to observe the signal, and a receiving subunit from the above subunit. It comprises a further subunit that transmits commands.

[0061] The controller may be configured to supply power to the agitator motor, or alternatively, The power is then supplied to the agitator motor by a separate component (e.g., a second controller). The controller can supply the electrical load of the motor supplied by the controller. It can be configured to measure by [this method].

[0062] The controller may be located in the main body of the vacuum cleaner (for example, the controller is located in the vacuum cleaner). (Can be attached to the motor). This allows the same controller to be used with multiple interchangeable vacuum cleaner heads. It may be possible to use it together with D.

[0063] Embodiments of the present invention will be described as examples only, with reference to the attached drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0064] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing a vacuum cleaner according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a view from below showing the vacuum cleaner head of the vacuum cleaner. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the electrical components of a vacuum cleaner. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a schematic flowchart illustrating the control operations performed by the vacuum cleaner controller. [Figure 5] This is a schematic flowchart illustrating the control operations performed by the controller of a vacuum cleaner according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a schematic flowchart illustrating the control operations performed by the controller of a vacuum cleaner according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0065] Throughout the description and drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding functional parts.

[0066] Figure 1 shows a vacuum cleaner 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Vacuum cleaning of this embodiment Machine 2 is a "stick-type" vacuum cleaner. This vacuum cleaner has a nearly tubular, elongated wand 8 It has a vacuum cleaner head 4 connected to the main body 6. The vacuum cleaner head 4 is also connected to the main body It can be directly connected to the main unit 6, converting the vacuum cleaner 2 into a handheld vacuum cleaner.

[0067] The main body 6 in this case includes a dust separator 10 which is a cyclone-type separator. The cyclone separator has a first cyclone stage 12 with a single cyclone, and arranged in parallel The main body 6 has a second cyclone stage 14 which is equipped with multiple cyclones 16. A removable filter is provided, which has a vent 20 that allows air to be discharged from the vacuum cleaner 2. It has a T-assembly 18.

[0068] In this case, the main body 6 of the vacuum cleaner 2 is positioned to be held by the user. It has a pistol-type grip 22. The upper end of the pistol-type grip 22 has a trigger (Figure There is an on / off switch in the form (shown in diagram), and this trigger keeps the vacuum cleaner on. It needs to be held (i.e., "pulled") in order to be triggered. As soon as that happens, the vacuum cleaner turns off. Below the lower end of the pistol-type grip 22, A battery pack 26, which has multiple rechargeable cells (not shown), is positioned. It comprises a controller in the form of BC (not shown) and a fan driven by an electric motor. The vacuum motor (not shown) is located inside the main body 6 at the rear of the dust separator 10.

[0069] The vacuum cleaner head 4 is shown from below in Figure 2. The vacuum cleaner head 4 has a suction channel. It has a case 30 that defines a humb 32 and a bottom plate 34. The bottom plate 34 is air A suction opening 36 into which the suction chamber 32 can enter, and a wheel 37 for engaging with the floor surface, Case 30 has an outlet 38 through which air is drawn in. Adding Chamba 32 allows it to be placed within the Eight of Wands.

[0070] A brush bar-shaped agitator 40 is positioned inside the suction chamber 32. The agitator 40 is driven and rotated inside the suction chamber 32 by an agitator motor (not shown). It can be rotated. The stirrer motor of this embodiment is located inside the stirrer 40, more specifically completely It is received on the inside. The agitator 40 has a spiral array of hair-like bodies protruding from the groove 42 ( (Not shown) It has a bristle-like structure that protrudes out of the suction chamber 32 through the suction opening 36. It is located in the sea urchin suction chamber.

[0071] Figure 3 is a schematic explanation of the electrical components of the vacuum cleaner 2, and in this Figure 3, trigger 2 4. Battery pack 26 cell 27, stirrer 40 bristles 43, controller 50, vacuum Motor 52 and agitator motor 54 are visible. Here, Figure 3 is shown along with Figures 1 and 2. Refer to the following to explain the basic operation of a vacuum cleaner.

[0072] When the user pulls the trigger 24, the controller 50 will control cell 27 of the battery pack 26. Then power is supplied to the vacuum motor 52. This forms an airflow through the machine, thereby sucking This creates a suction. The air containing the dust passes through the suction opening 36 and into the vacuum cleaner head. The air is drawn into the suction chamber 32 at outlet 4. From here, the air exits outlet 3 of the vacuum cleaner head 4. The dust passes through 8, along the wand 8, and is sucked into the dust separator 10. The collected dust is then... The dust is removed by the dust separator 10, and then the relatively clean air is used for the vacuum motor and filter. It is drawn in through the assembly 18 and exits the vacuum cleaner 2 through the vent 20.

[0073] Furthermore, when the trigger 24 is pulled, the controller 50 moves the wand extending along the inside of the wand. Power from the battery pack 26 is supplied to the agitator motor 54 through ear 56, and Then, the agitator 40 is rotated. When the vacuum cleaner head 4 is on a hard floor, the vacuum cleaner head is Supported by the eel 37, the bottom plate 34 and the agitator 40 are spaced apart from the floor surface. It is open. When the vacuum cleaner head 4 is placed on a carpet-like surface, the wheel 37 is It sinks into the carpet pile, and therefore the bottom plate 34 (the rest of the vacuum cleaner head 4) (Along with the minutes) it is positioned even lower. This causes the carpet fibers to be drawn in. It becomes possible to protrude toward the mouth portion 36 (and in some cases through the suction opening), Soon after, these fibers are disturbed by the bristles 43 of the rotating agitator 40, This separates dust and debris from the fibers.

[0074] The controller 50 observes the electrical load of the agitator motor 54 and determines the magnitude of the electrical load. By comparing it to a threshold, the power supplied to the vacuum motor 52 is selectively adjusted as a result. In this case, the controller observes the electrical load with respect to the current draw of the agitator motor 54. Measure the current and compare it to the current threshold. In this embodiment, the current threshold is 1.5A to 2A. This is within the range. Here, referring to Figures 1 to 3 along with Figure 4, the operation of the controller 50 is To explain in detail, Figure 4 shows the decision steps and actions performed by the controller 50. This is a flowchart.

[0075] When the vacuum cleaner 2 is turned on by pulling the trigger 24, the controller 50 first Power is supplied to the vacuum motor 52 at the current power level. This is shown in block A. In this case, The initial power level is 130W.

[0076] As described above, when the trigger 24 is pulled, the controller 50 also controls the power to the agitator motor. It is supplied to Ta 54. However, in this embodiment, the controller 50 is the stirrer The power supplied to motor 54 is not adjusted. Therefore, the power supply to the agitator motor 54 is This is not shown in Figure 4.

[0077] After supplying power to the vacuum motor 52 and the agitator motor 54, the controller controls the agitator motor The current pull of -54 is detected (block B). The controller then sets the measured value to a threshold. Compare with the range. More specifically, as shown in block C, controller 50 detects Inquire whether the current draw is greater than the threshold range (i.e., greater than 2A). If the detected current pull is greater than the current threshold, the controller 50 will control the vacuum motor Increase the power supplied to 52 from the initial power level to the upper power level (block D). In this case, the power output of the bell is 180W.

[0078] If the detected current pull is not greater than the threshold range, the controller will again... The current draw is compared to a threshold, and in this case, the current draw detected by the agitator motor 54 is the threshold. It queries whether it is smaller than the range (i.e., less than 1.5A). This is done in block E. As shown below. And if so, the controller 50 sends a signal to the vacuum motor 52. The power is reduced from the initial power level to the lower power level (block F). In this embodiment The lower power level is 80W.

[0079] The detected current pull is neither greater than nor less than the threshold (i.e., 1.5A and 2A) If (between these conditions), the controller 50 will not make any adjustments and will set the initial power level to the vacuum motor. Continue sending. Then, after performing the above comparison between the power draw and the threshold, the power line Regardless of whether or not the bell adjustment is performed, the controller controls the current draw to the agitator motor 54. A time delay is performed (block G) before detection again (block A). The time delay is 0.3 seconds. That is, the controller 50 has a time period of 0.3 seconds. The current draw is observed periodically. However, in other embodiments, the time delay is omitted. This allows the controller to continuously monitor the current draw of the agitator motor 54. Regardless of the very slight time delay caused by the controller performing blocks B to F figure).

[0080] A time delay was performed (Block G), and the current draw of the agitator motor was measured (Block B). ) Afterwards, the controller 50 similarly compares the new value to the threshold (blocks C and E). The measured values ​​are at the same position relative to the threshold range (i.e., above the threshold range, below the threshold range) If it is below or within the threshold range, then no further adjustments are made, and a time delay (block G) is performed. Repeat the cycle in the same way. However, the measured current pull changes its position relative to the threshold. If this is done, adjustments can be made afterward. For example, the current draw was previously within the threshold, but the threshold If it moves above that point, the controller 50 then initially sends current to the vacuum motor. Increase the power level from the threshold to the upper power level. As in another example, the current draw was previously at the threshold. If the value was above the threshold but then moved below it, the controller 50 then... The power level sent to Ta 52 is reduced from the upper power level to the lower power level. On the other hand, the current If the pull-in was previously above or below the threshold but has moved within the threshold, adjust the pull-in. If not performed, the power sent to the vacuum motor 52 will remain at the same power level (i.e., the higher power level). The power level remains at the lower level.

[0081] From Figure 4, it can be understood that after the machine is turned on, the power draw of the agitator motor 54 is at a threshold. As long as it remains within the specified range, the power level supplied to the vacuum motor is the initial power level. However, we select thresholds and power levels to make this scenario unlikely to actually occur. The controller 50 did so (not during the first cycle of the steps shown in Figure 4). It is expected that the power level will be adjusted to an upper or lower power level relatively quickly. It is understood that once the controller 50 makes the first adjustment to the power level, Then the controller vacuums power levels other than the lower and upper power levels. It is set not to supply power to -52. In other words, the controller is set to 80W Alternatively, only 180W is supplied to the vacuum motor 52.

[0082] Of note, in this embodiment, the controller supplies the vacuum motor 52 Adjust the power level, and this adjustment is more gradual than a step-like change in the power level. That is the case. More specifically, the controller adjusts the power level over a period of approximately 2 seconds. Adjust the power supply. This will allow the user to (caused by sudden changes in the power supply) This avoids sudden changes in the speed of the vacuum motor 52, which could cause confusion.

[0083] Figure 5 shows the decision steps performed by the controller of a vacuum cleaner according to a second embodiment of the present invention. This is a flowchart showing the top and operation. The second embodiment is substantially the same as the first embodiment. Yes, and therefore, this specification will only describe the differences.

[0084] In the second embodiment, in each cycle, the controller 50 draws current as described above. Before comparing with the threshold (blocks C and E), the current draw detected by the agitator motor 54 is... Compare with the spike threshold (block H). In this case, the spike threshold is one A continuous value, i.e., 5A. The current draw exceeds the spike threshold (i.e., 5A). If the power is too high, the controller 50 then reduces the power supplied to the vacuum motor 52. In this case, the power is reduced to a lower power level (i.e., 80W). This is shown in block I. The adjustments made in blocks D and F are gradual, whereas in block I... The adjustments are stepwise, meaning the power is adjusted as quickly as the controller can achieve. Then, the power level drops to a lower level.

[0085] After adjusting the power level in step I, the controller implements a time delay (block G) Then, remeasure the current draw (block B) and restart the cycle. Current draw If it is greater than the spike threshold and remains greater, then (current pull-in spike Decreases from above the threshold to below the threshold (i.e., from above 5A to below 1.5A) During this process, the controller 50 continues to supply a lower power level to the vacuum motor 52. However, if the current draw is between the threshold and the spike threshold, then the control The RA 50 sends the upper power level to the vacuum motor 52.

[0086] To avoid any doubt, while the current draw from the agitator motor 54 remains below the spike threshold... The vacuum cleaner 2 according to the second embodiment behaves in the same manner as the vacuum cleaner 2 of the first embodiment. do.

[0087] Figure 6 shows the operation performed by the controller of a vacuum cleaner according to the third embodiment of the present invention. This is a flowchart showing the decision steps and operations. This embodiment is similar to the first embodiment. It is similar to the form, and therefore, similarly, it only explains the differences.

[0088] In this embodiment, the controller 50 has a memory, and this memory is true Record the power level being sent to the vacuum motor 52 when the vacuum cleaner 2 was last turned off. Save. Furthermore, when the vacuum cleaner 2 is first turned on, the vacuum motor 52 receives an initial power level. Instead of sending a bell, the controller 50 sends a bell when the vacuum cleaner is last turned off. The electricity that was being used is being transmitted.

[0089] Regardless of whether controller 50 is performing adjustments, the controller is now being sent The power level is recorded and written to (or overwritten) in memory (blocks J and K). Therefore, when the vacuum cleaner 2 is turned off, the memory will be set to the last power level (up to the top power level). Includes recording of power level or lower power level. When you turn the vacuum cleaner 2 on again, the control Laura reads the record from memory (block L) and sets the associated power level to vacuum mode Send to 52 (block M).

[0090] In this embodiment, the controller 50 does not send an initial power level but rather an upper power level. Or, to send a lower power level quickly, the controller will either send a lower power level or an upper power level If it is pre-set not to supply any other power levels to the vacuum motor 52, It can be considered as such.

[0091] That being said, in the third embodiment, the behavior of the controller described above is This is done only when Ra is in the first mode. Controller 50 also, "Minimum It has a second mode, which is a "maximum" mode, and a third mode, which is a "maximum" mode. When the -50 is in minimum mode, the controller will not exceed the following power level (70W in this case). A constant power level is supplied to the vacuum motor 52. Similarly, the controller 50 is set to maximum power. When in the zone, the controller will remain above the upper power level (190W in this case) The power level is supplied to the vacuum motor 52. The mode of the controller 50 is set to the main unit 6. It can be set using a three-position slider, an example of which can be seen in Figure 1.

[0092] It is anticipated that the invention will deviate from the scope of the present invention as defined in the attached claims. The fact is that numerous modifications can be made to the above-described embodiments without having to do so. For example, the third embodiment In the modification of the installation configuration, when the controller 50 is in minimum mode, the vacuum motor 52 is supplied The power level that can be used may be higher than the lower power level (e.g., 90W), and / or When the controller 50 is in maximum mode, the power level supplied to the vacuum motor 52 is: It may be below the upper power level (for example, 170W). [Explanation of Symbols]

[0093] 2 vacuum cleaners, 4 vacuum cleaner heads, 10 dust separators, 32 suction chambers, 40 agitators Mixer, 50 Controller, 52 Vacuum motor, 54 Stirrer motor

Claims

1. It is a vacuum cleaner, A vacuum cleaner head having a stirrer that defines a suction chamber and is configured to be rotated by a stirrer motor, a dust separator; A vacuum motor configured to draw air into the suction chamber and into the dust separator, A controller configured to operate selectively in a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode, wherein in the first mode, the controller The system is configured to observe the electrical load of the agitator motor, compare the magnitude of the electrical load with a threshold range, and selectively adjust the power supplied to the vacuum motor. The controller is configured to increase the power supplied to the vacuum motor to a predetermined upper power level when the electrical load is greater than the upper limit of the threshold range, and to decrease the power supplied to the vacuum motor to a predetermined lower power level when the electrical load is less than the lower limit of the threshold range. The controller is configured to maintain a record of the power level that was being supplied to the vacuum motor when the vacuum cleaner was last turned off, and to resume supplying the power level to the vacuum motor when the vacuum cleaner is next turned on. In the second mode, the controller is configured to supply the vacuum motor with a predetermined minimum power level that is lower than the lower power level but greater than zero. In the third mode, the controller is configured to supply a predetermined maximum power level greater than the upper power level to the vacuum cleaner, and the controller is provided in this configuration. In the first mode, the controller is further configured to compare the magnitude of the electrical load with a spike threshold higher than the threshold range, and to rapidly and stepwise reduce the power supplied to the vacuum motor to a power level that is above the lower power level but below the upper power level when the electrical load is greater than the spike threshold.

2. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that the controller is configured to increase the power supplied to the vacuum motor to the upper power level when the electrical load is greater than the threshold range, and to decrease the power supplied to the vacuum motor to the lower power level when the electrical load is less than the threshold range.

3. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 2, characterized in that the controller can be set not to supply power levels other than the upper power level and the lower power level to the vacuum motor.

4. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 2, characterized in that the controller is configured to continue observing the electrical load of the agitator after adjusting the power supplied to the vacuum motor, and to make further adjustments when it detects that the electrical load of the agitator motor has crossed the threshold range.

5. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that the controller is configured to observe the electrical load of the agitator motor in terms of the current draw of the electric motor and to compare the detected current draw with a current threshold.

6. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that the controller is configured to gradually adjust the power supplied to the vacuum motor to the upper power level or the lower power level.

7. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 6, characterized in that the controller is configured to adjust the power supplied to the vacuum motor to the upper power level or the lower power level for a period of at least 0.5 seconds.

8. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 6, characterized in that the controller is configured to adjust the power supplied to the vacuum motor to the upper power level or the lower power level over a period of 6 seconds or less.

9. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that the controller is configured to reduce the power supplied to the vacuum motor as a step-like change in response to the electrical load being greater than the spike-like threshold.

10. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that the threshold range is a single discontinuous value.

11. The aforementioned vacuum cleaner is the dust separator; The aforementioned vacuum motor, A handle having an on / off switch in the form of a trigger, wherein the on / off switch is configured to operate the vacuum motor when the trigger is pressed and to deactivate the vacuum motor when the trigger is released, The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that it is a handheld vacuum cleaner comprising a main body including the vacuum cleaner.

12. The aforementioned vacuum cleaner is the dust separator; The aforementioned vacuum motor, A handle having an on / off switch in the form of a trigger, wherein the on / off switch is configured to operate the vacuum motor when the trigger is pressed and to deactivate the vacuum motor when the trigger is released, The main body, including, A long, slender wand connecting the main body and the vacuum cleaner head, The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that it is a stick-type vacuum cleaner equipped with [a specific feature].

13. The vacuum cleaner according to claim 1, characterized in that the threshold range includes a buffer range between the upper limit and the lower limit, and the controller does not increase or decrease the power supplied to the vacuum motor due to fluctuations in the electrical load within the buffer range.

Images